#it's all just a personal choice and it's about being confident in asserting your own needs and boundaries

[hoshifighting]

so I had this idea about switch!joshua

idk why but I kinda have this fantasy in my head about Joshua and his partner having a power play during sex. they keep tryna a dom each other but they also enjoy being each others sub yk

could you write sth like this? I would love to read it :]

— Synopsis: You and Joshua both have strong personalities, resulting in power play whenever you're having sex. It's like witnessing a battle to see who can assert their dominance over the other. — WC: 2k — WARNINGS: Smut, power play, switch!reader&joshua, bickering, overstimulation, sex toys - (vibrator, handcuffs, blindfold), bondage, sensory deprivation, penetrative sex, degradation, clit stimulation, choking, face slapping, the fight for power.

the first time you met joshua, it was like striking a match in a room filled with gasoline. his confident, almost arrogant smile was mirrored by your own stubborn determination. you could tell right away that this was a man who was used to being in control, someone who thrived on dominance. and, ironically, that was the exact reason you were drawn to him.

you never asked about joshua’s past relationships. honestly, you didn’t want to know. you liked the mystery, the untold stories that lingered in his eyes. but one thing was clear: you were the first to challenge him, to refuse to let him take the lead without a fight.

the first time you had sex, it was a battle. every touch was a negotiation, every kiss a test of wills.

joshua, so accustomed to being the dominant force, found himself facing someone who was just as strong, just as determined. it took him a while to process it, to wrap his mind around the idea that he wasn’t the only one in control.

afterward, you lay next to each other, breathless and sweaty. the silence was heavy with unspoken words. finally, joshua turned to you, his eyes searching yours.

“so,” he began, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth, “this is new.”

you laughed, a light, airy sound that filled the room. “you didn’t think i’d just roll over and let you take charge, did you?”

“i was hoping,” he admitted, his smile widening. “but i guess i should’ve known better.”

today was one of those days where neither of you was willing to give up control. joshua’s hands were cuffed above his head, muscles straining against the restraints as you teased his swollen cock with a feather. his abdomen tightened with every agonizing brush, and his frustrated moans echoed through the room.

“you’re enjoying this way too much,” he groaned, his voice tinged with a compound of irritation and arousal. outside these four walls, joshua was a sweetheart, but here, he was your plaything.

you got up to retrieve a vibrator from your drawer, enjoying the sight of him writhing, desperate for more. the moment you turned your back, you heard the click of the handcuffs. spinning around, you saw joshua ripping the blindfold from his face, with a dark grimace.

“oh, fuck,” you muttered, knowing you were in trouble as he strode toward you with large, purposeful steps.

he wrapped his arms around you from behind, pressing you against the dresser and pinning your arms to your chest. “you don’t think you’ve teased me enough?” he growled through gritted teeth, his breath hot against your ear.

“you can’t handle a little feather?” you taunted, your voice dripping with sarcasm. “poor baby.”

joshua’s response was a low, dangerous growl. he yanked your head back by your hair, forcing your neck to arch painfully. “you like pushing me, don’t you?” he snarled. “you’re nothing but a slut who loves to be put in her place.”

you grunted at the sharp pain, feeling his cock slide inside you all at once. your legs threatened to give out, but joshua held you steady. “steady yourself, slut,” he commanded, his voice harsh and unyielding.

you had no choice but to comply. one hand escaped to brace yourself on the dresser, your moans strangled by the way he pulled your hair. despite your frustration at his breaking the rules, you couldn’t deny how much you loved being railed by him, being his pathetic slut. just as much as he loved being your toy when you needed it.

he pressed himself deeper, your balance faltering as your chest hit the dresser. the vibrator in your hand buzzed to life, and you cursed yourself for letting it slip. joshua paused, the sound catching his attention.

“well, well,” he teased, taking the vibrator from you. “look at you, thinking you could use this on me. what a desperate little whore you are.”

he turned the vibrator to its highest setting, the buzz loud and threatening. “no,” you pleaded, shaking your head. “please, joshua—”

“you don’t get to beg,” he interrupted, his voice dripping with disdain. “you’re just a slut who takes what she’s given.”

his cock stretched you, the burn from your unpreparedness mixing with the relentless throb of your heartbeat. when joshua turned the vibrator to its maximum setting, you gulped, knowing exactly where he intended to place it. your eyes widened in panic.

he lowered the buzzing device until it reached your clit, and you screamed, grabbing his forearm, your nails sinking painfully into his skin. the intense pleasure made him groan, your tightness around his cock almost causing him to lose his balance.

your clit felt like it was on fire, tears springing to your eyes. joshua started to move, thrusting into you with a new fervor, amplifying the overwhelming sensations. another scream tore from your throat as you whimpered, "josh, josh..."

as joshua's grip on your arm loosened, you felt your body slowly disassembling against the dresser. each movement seemed to send new shocks of sensation through you, your heightened sensitivity turning every touch into an electric charge. joshua didn’t seem to notice your extra-sensitive state, his focus entirely on his own pleasure.

you were torn, debating whether to let the knot inside you unravel and risk overstimulation or try to hold back and risk edging yourself too much. but as you wrestled with your thoughts, the decision was made for you. you felt the wave cresting, and with a sob, you realized you were cumming.

your sobs echoed off the furniture, a raw sound that combined with the rhythmic slap of joshua’s thrusts. his cock split you open, and you felt yourself dripping onto the wooden floor, the vibrator splashing the proof of your orgasm everywhere.

he resumed his thrusts, slower now, more calculated, each stir developed to push you further into overstimulation. the vibrator’s relentless buzz against your clit was torture, and you cried out, your body fluttering with the power of it all.

“please,” you begged, your voice breaking. “i can’t… i can’t take it.”

joshua leaned down, his breath hot against your ear. “oh, but you will,” he whispered. “you’ll take it, and you’ll love it, won’t you?”

you sobbed, your body betraying you as another wave of pleasure crashed over you, your legs buckling. “joshua, please…”

his grip on your hips tightened, and he pushed deeper, hitting that spot that made you see stars. “you’re such a good girl,” he taunted. “look at you, falling apart just for me.”

your nails scraped against the wood of the dresser, leaving marks as you clung to it for support. “i’m… i’m cumming again,” you gasped, tears streaming down your face.

“good,” he growled, thrusting harder. “cum for me, show me how much you love it.”

your body obeyed, another orgasm ripping through you, leaving you a trembling, sobbing mess. 

everything started to feel like too much—the relentless vibrator, joshua’s tight embrace, his cock buried deep inside you, his overwhelming presence. it was suffocating, and in a moment of clarity through the haze of overstimulation, you felt a surge of strength. you needed to take charge.

your spasms gave you the energy to pry his forearm away, sending the vibrator flying across the room. it stopped buzzing the moment it hit the ground, and you didn’t care if it was broken. you turned joshua around, pushing him onto the bed and straddling him, your hand finding his throat. you pressed your fingers into either side of his neck, watching his breath hitch and his eyes widen in surprise and pleasure.

a nasty smile spread across his face, taunting you. you slapped him hard, his head snapping to the side. when he turned back to face you, his grin was even wider.

you knew. he loved it when you lost control, when you took what you wanted. this was how the two of you thrived—fire and fire, clashing and igniting.

“you think this is funny?” you hissed, your voice low and dangerous. “i’m going to wipe that grin off your face.”

joshua’s eyes gleamed with excitement. “is that so?” he taunted, his voice rough with anticipation.

you tightened your grip on his throat, leaning in close. “you’re going to beg for mercy,” you whispered fiercely. “i’m going to ruin you.”

his breath hitched again, his smile faltering slightly. “do your worst,” he challenged, his voice barely above a whisper.

you didn’t need another invitation.

you moved with intent, your hand slipping from his throat to his jaw, forcing him to look up at you. your other hand trailed down his chest, nails scraping lightly, leaving red lines in their wake. joshua’s breathing grew ragged, his eyes never leaving yours.

“you like this, don’t you?” you murmured, your fingers tracing patterns on his skin. “being at my mercy?”

“yes,” he gasped, his voice strained. “i love it.”

you leaned down, your lips brushing against his ear. “good,” you whispered. “because i’m just getting started.”

you shifted your hips, taking him inside you again, but this time you were in control. you rode him with an enthusiasm that surprised even you. 

you set the pace, slow and willful, driving him wild with every move. joshua’s hands gripped the sheets, his knuckles white with the effort to keep still.

his hands gripped your hips, trying to match your rhythm, but you swatted them away.

“no touching,” you commanded. “you don’t get to touch until i say so.”

he groaned in frustration, his head pressing back into the mattress. “please,” he begged, his voice strained. “let me touch you.”

you leaned down, your lips hovering over his. “not yet,” you murmured. “not until i see that smile disappear.”

you increased your pace, your movements becoming more inconsistent, more desperate. his face contorted with pleasure, his cock twitching inside you. you knew he was close, and you wanted to push him over the border.

“beg for it,” you commanded, your voice firm.

“please,” he moaned, his hips bucking up involuntarily. “please, y/n.”

you slapped him again, the sound echoing in the room. “louder,” you demanded.

“please!” he cried out, his voice desperate. “please, i need it.”

a triumphant smile spread across your face. “that’s better,” you purred, increasing your pace, your movements more forceful. “you’re mine, joshua. all mine.”

“yes,” he panted, his eyes wild with submission. “all yours.”

you felt the power surge through you, the thrill of being in control. joshua’s moans filled the room, his body trembling beneath you. you rode him harder, pushing him to the edge, watching as his composure crumbled.

“cum for me,” you ordered, “now.”

with a final, desperate cry, joshua followed, his body convulsing as he came. you watched him, your eyes never leaving his, taking in every moment of his surrender.

joshua doesn't know exactly how much time he spends trying to catch his breath with his eyes closed. how do you do this? he had you overstimulated, railing you on the dresser, yet somehow you still ended up defeating him on the bed. 

every. single. time, he was amazed. amazed by how much of a freak you were, and how much he loved being your sub

he's pulled out of his thoughts when you emerge from the bathroom, a towel wrapped around you. your skin is still damp, and you leave a faint trail of steam in your wake. you glance at him, still sprawled out on the bed in the same position you left him.

"i've won this time too?" you tease, a playful glint in your eye.

joshua opens his eyes and watches you walk, noticing the funny, slightly limping gait you have now. he scoffs, a smirk playing on his lips. "do you think so?"

you pause, one hand on your hip, and arch an eyebrow. "well, i did end up on top, didn’t i?"

he laughs softly, the sound rumbling from deep in his chest. "only because i let you."

"sure, keep telling yourself that," you retort, walking over to the bed. 

he props himself up on his elbows, his eyes never leaving you. “and you’re barely able to walk straight. who’s the real winner here?”

“still me,” you say, leaning down to kiss him lightly on the lips. “because i always end up on top.”

"you know," he murmurs, "one of these days, i'm going to turn the tables on you."

you scoff, nestling against him, your fingers tracing idle patterns on his chest. "i'd like to see you try."

[gremlinmodetweeker]

König's Kids Headcanons

I think König, when he's there, would be a great dad. He's a bit of a gremlin, but this just makes him a better dad. He's also a bit of a menace at parent teacher meetings.

Anyways, have some silly headcanons

Art from This Post

König is a surprisingly good father (when he’s there). He’s strict, but also knows how to relax and let things slide. He will play-wrestle with his kids and make sure they have plenty of time to run around in nature and read books. He’s passionate about his kids’ hobbies and encourages them to learn and explore what they love.

He’s the type of dad to teach them how to fight but also play pretend games with them

He does not like having tea parties, but he will endure for his children. He will endure great hardship and pain for them, and if this includes sipping water from a plastic teacup while sitting on a tiny stool, so be it. He can endure. However, he draws the line at makeup. He can’t endure (nor can he sit still long enough)

When König is home from work, he drops his military titles at the door and focuses entirely on being an important part of their lives. The sad part is that you can see he’s actively trying to make up for time he’s lost. This is part of what leads to him retiring early to a local security job.

Without a steady father figure in their lives, his kids do grow up to struggle with certain things. However, all things considered, they turn out pretty well adjusted and healthy. Honestly, pretty solid people. They turn out to be the kind of people you feel like you can respect and appreciate.

But when they’re young his kids are little shits. They’re the type to break stuff for fun. They also will run and hide from you. At a certain point, you’ll have to resort to using child leashes because they will run away from you in public. So when they’re young, they’re terrors in your house. When they get older, they have their father’s streak of intelligence and are snarky assholes. They have brutal teenage years.

This is exacerbated by the fact that for the first ten years of his youngest kid’s life, he’s still in a PMC and going on military contracts, so the kids have large periods of time where they’re missing their father.

König realizes too late that he missed a lot of his kids’ development and chooses to retire to a more local security job to spend more time at home. It’s a big change in the household, but not an unwelcome one. His older kids struggle the most, but they do grow to form strong bonds with him because of his choice to stay home

König makes a good deal of money early on so he can go on to take a lower paying job later in life. His kids never have to worry about if they have money. They have to worry about whether or not their parents will say yes.

König is a pretty strict father. He’s a military man, a former colonel. He’s not going to be a horrible abusive father, but he will be a bit much sometimes. You might find yourself stepping in to defuse the tension sometimes.

Thankfully, König doesn’t yell at his kids (unless it’s something stupid and it’s pretty obviously a joke) or hit them. He’s actually pretty bad about disciplining his kids. You might have to take over in that department. Having been in the military for so long, König’s terrified of going overkill on his kids and doesn’t want to risk hurting them. He can dish it out, yes, but he’s extremely cautious when doing so.

He’s also quite fair. He does his best to treat his children equally. He’s surprisingly good. He focuses on encouraging their individual hobbies and finding their own personalities. They do grow up to be quite self-confident with their father’s teachings in their heads. They’re not arrogant, but they’re confident and assertive

They’re not popular in school, but not hated. They do pretty decently. Academics are a bit too easy for them, so König has to step in to teach them study habits and keep their passion for learning. Thankfully, his father was a professor, so he’s pretty good at this.

That said, König will sometimes be pretty silly when disciplining. Sometimes, you can hear his full colonel voice booming from outside about someone pulling some silly prank on him as he’s mowing the lawn. He’s not the type to pull pranks on his kids (but he’ll happily torment you) but he will play silly games with them. I think his kids learn that when he’s yelling, he’s not actually that angry, he’s just playing around. It still scares the shit out of your kids’ friends when he does it when they’re over

König has a tendency to scare children in public. He tries really hard to not make them nervous, but with the hood and the height and the tired look in his eyes? Nah he’s terrifying.

König’s kids grow up not being afraid of anyone because nobody’s as scary as their dad. This also means all the kids know that those kids have the scariest dad.

When your kids’ friends come over, they’re terrified of König. Unfortunately, he finds this slightly funny and takes advantage of this. You might have to step in and diffuse the tension to help those poor children realize that when König is yelling about things, he’s not actually mad. Maybe make cookies with him or something, it’ll help break the ice.

Your kids and their friends are all taken under König’s wings for protection. He’ll go up to bat for any of those kids. He genuinely cares so much about them. Having very select few friendships as a child himself, he’ll go out of his way to ensure his children have healthy social lives.

Sometimes the parents are unsettled by him. This is König’s unsettling form of social anxiety at play, so you’ll have to mediate between other parents and König to make sure they realize that no, he’s not an abusive monster, he just makes horrible jokes about his children. He has very dark humor but plays it straight, which is a horrible combination.

He has had a teacher call CPS on him before, but it was quickly resolved. However, most people are frightened by König when he steps into a room and it’s no different at parent-teacher interviews

He always blows teachers out of the water for how much he cares about his kids getting a quality education. He’s also quite receptive to their advice (if it’s good) and is willing to step in when needed. Teachers also typically find that he’s quite a fun parent volunteer to have on field trips (he is extremely popular)

Some of the more timid kids grow to like König because he tries to ensure all children are included when he’s around. He’s good at making sure everyone feels noticed.

Of course, as said, in the beginning everyone is terrified of the giant foreign soldier man. His kids have to teach their friends to not be afraid of their dad when he’s home.

Later on, this means in late high school his kids' friends consider him a DILF. He’s horrified. Flattered, but horrified. He has a serious talk with you about how to not be a DILF. He genuinely is so upset by the concept. His kids laugh at him all the time because he’s miserable about it.

Konig Dump

Konig Headcanons

[solitarystarrywitch]

💫2025 Pick A Card💫

✨What you need to bring into 2025✨

Using the Crystal Angels oracle deck.

Just something short and simple for my first PAC post <3 This is for the collective so take what resonates, and leave what doesn't.

Pick an angel number that you've been seeing lately or that you feel this strong connection to at the moment.

☆ . ＋.。 . 。, ☆ ﾟ. ＋ ☆ * 。ﾟ. o, 。 . ＋ ﾟ ☆

☆ . ＋.。 . 。, ☆ ﾟ. ＋ ☆ * 。ﾟ. o, 。 . ＋ ﾟ ☆

💫222💫 Amertrine – Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies

Allow your feminine side to creatively inspire you, and your masculine side to give you confidence

If you picked 222, it's time to find balance within your life, your time, and any projects you may have. It will not only be efficient, but very empowering and harmonious.

Spirit says this message is especially for those who are currently experiencing tensions in a friend group, and for those experiencing tensions among work friends/colleagues. Some of you may have two or more friends that are currently having drama together or butting heads, and it is disrupting not just the dynamics and harmony between the conflicting parties, but everyone else. Or tensions among colleagues are significantly affecting the work environment.

Spirit is also telling me that some of you may be the type of person to drop everything to help a friend out. While that's very generous and admirable of you, you need to first ask yourself "is this something I can really take on right now without it disrupting my own life?"

This may also connect with tensions among friends or colleagues. Ask yourself "does whatever they're butting heads about have anything to do with me at all?". If you weren't involved in the first place, don't make yourself involved.

This is your sign to focus on your needs and what you want to achieve in 2025. Finding and creating balance in your life will allow a better flow of energy.

The best analogy I can come up with is it's liked gunked up pipes where the water pressure is really shitty until you clean it out and the flow is much much better. Clear out what you don't need and focus on your goals.

Your recommended crystals to use are ametrine and caribbean calcite. <3

☆ . ＋.。 . 。, ☆ ﾟ. ＋ ☆ * 。ﾟ. o, 。 . ＋ ﾟ ☆

💫444💫 Aqua Aura – Healthy Communication in Relationships

Heart-to-heart discussions and clear, assertive communication help you understand and be understood

If you picked 444, it's time to work on asking for what you want. It's time to remember that people aren't mind readers, and that it's time to make your desires vocal.

This message is especially for the shy girlies or guys that are pretty passive when making plans and never really make a decision. It's always "oh I'm fine with whatever you want" when in reality, you have a decision in your head but you subconsciously have this rule for yourself that "it can't be you that asks for something, you just have to hope that the person picks the choice that you want too." You can break that rule and it won't be the end of the world. You are allowed to be vocal about what you want. You can also be rejected, and it also won't be the end of the world.

The point is, you never know what may bless you until you ask for it. Don't protect this Schrödinger's cat mindset of "if I dont say what I want I can't be rejected, and the possibility of being told 'yes' is always gonna be there". Find out.

Your recommended crystals are aqua aura and amazonite. <3

☆ . ＋.。 . 。, ☆ ﾟ. ＋ ☆ * 。ﾟ. o, 。 . ＋ ﾟ ☆

💫111💫 Rhodochrosite – Be Gentle with Yourself

You've been through a lot and need time to heal and recover.

If you picked 111, this is a sign to take the time to recover from events that happened 2024. If nothing necessarily personal and/or big happened to you specifically, this may also be a sign to just destress and take a step back. The holiday seasons are always the most stressful, it is okay to allow yourself time to decompress from the hectic holidays.

I'm also getting from Spirit that this new year may also bring in some moments where afterwards you may need to take your time to process and take a step back from them. Protect your energy and peace, these are not things to compromise or sacrifice.

This is the year to prioritize yourself and your happiness. You can't fill someone else's cup when yours is empty. Provide an overflowing amount of care to yourself to the point where that care and love naturally flows to your inner circle and loved ones as well.

Your recommended crystals are rhodochrosite and rose quartz. <3

☆ . ＋.。 . 。, ☆ ﾟ. ＋ ☆ * 。ﾟ. o, 。 . ＋ ﾟ ☆

Wishing you all a wonderful 2025 and sending good blessings 💫

[nomhano]

Hinata is so underwritten/develop rant

Hinata is often described as kind, gentle, and compassionate. She dislikes competition and conflict, and although she becomes more "shinobi-like" in Shippuden, her care for her friends and comrades remains constant (Third Naruto Databook). According to the First Naruto Databook, "Although she is the heir to the renowned Hyuga Main House, she is full of compassion and dislikes competition and fighting: such is Hinata’s personality." She is also referred to as "The kind and gentle dancing fighter with feelings for Naruto" (First Naruto Databook). While these traits are admirable, they are not typical of a shinobi. In the Land of Waves arc, we learn that becoming a shinobi requires following strict rules in the field, where emotions must be suppressed to prevent them from interfering with the mission. The shinobi's primary duty is to be a tool for their village and country, even if that means sacrificing personal relationships or friends. Naruto, however, rejects this traditional idea of a shinobi and vows to follow his own nindo, or ninja way. Hinata, deeply inspired by Naruto, adopts his nindo of "never giving up" and "never going back on your word," hoping to grow stronger and more assertive. However, her adoption of this nindo seems more rooted in her own internal struggles than in a desire to become a shinobi.

During the Chunin Exams, it’s revealed that Hinata feels trapped by the immense expectations placed on her as a member of the prestigious Hyuga clan. She battles low self-confidence and feels inferior to her younger sister, Hanabi, who is more skilled in the Gentle Fist technique. Hinata resents her inability to be assertive, a quality she wishes she could change. Her father, Hiashi, essentially gave up on her, favoring Hanabi and showing little concern if Hinata were to die on a mission. As the First Naruto Databook states, "It can be said that Hiashi possesses an even callous strictness concerning the protection of the Hyuga’s dignity, and so he completely abandoned Hinata, who was of lesser ability, and gave thorough training to her younger sister, Hanabi." Additionally, "Currently, her father has given up on her, and she is assigned to difficult missions as a Genin. Even being in that dire situation hasn’t broken her; she hasn’t lost that kindness of hers, and that’s because Naruto was there, inside her heart. And now, Hinata is strengthening herself, soundly and steadily" (First Naruto Databook). Hiashi’s harsh motto, as described in the First Databook, is: "No place for the weak."

This motto only adds to Hinata’s struggles: "Shackled by the strict laws of the Hyuga clan, and further weakened by her inferiority complex towards her younger sister, Hinata is always seeking strength and power. Hinata is never assertive about anything, something she tends to hate about herself" (First Naruto Databook). She admires Naruto so much because he’s the exact opposite of her. Naruto is overflowing with strength, courage, and self-confidence, qualities Hinata aspires to have. She wants to become like him, which is why she applies for the Chunin Exams—to prove that she too can become strong, just like Naruto. Though she dislikes conflict, she fights fiercely against Neji, driven by her desire to change herself.

From my perspective, Hinata’s desire for strength seems more introspective than driven by the need to defeat enemies or gain glory. For her, strength is a path toward self-confidence, self-worth, and faith in herself, rather than a tool for combat. This raises the question: did Hinata truly want to become a shinobi? While I love seeing her in action, being a shinobi doesn’t seem to fully align with her character.

Being a shinobi isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. In this line of work, one may have to take another's life. It’s not entirely improbable that Hinata, despite her gentle nature, would face a situation where she had no choice but to kill in order to protect herself or her comrades. As a member of the Hyuga main branch, Hinata possesses the Byakugan, a highly sought-after dojutsu, which could easily place her in dangerous situations. Given the harsh realities of being a kunoichi, it’s difficult to believe she never took a life throughout her career.

For someone like Hinata, who values kindness and compassion so deeply, how must she have felt in those moments? The emotional toll of taking a life, especially for someone with her personality, would likely be profound and deeply conflicted. I can only wonder how she reconciled that with the path she chose.

It would have been fascinating if Hinata's story had explored the darker aspects of the shinobi system, where children are forced to become soldiers for their village. Given the weight of her clan’s expectations, Hinata had little choice but to follow the path of a shinobi. Perhaps she secretly yearned for a normal life—one free from the constant weight of clan politics, her obligations as the firstborn of the head of the clan, and the pressure to earn her father’s approval. She might have longed for the simple joys of friendship, acceptance, and genuine love from her family. I personally like this idea because it connects back to Kishimoto's original concept for Hinata as a regular city girl, which I just find cute haha. In this idea, Hinata doesn’t walk the path of the shinobi. I don’t think it’s impossible for her to walk the path of a shinobi, but her motivations for doing it will have to change.

I believe Hinata is the type of person who fights primarily to protect her loved ones. However, being a shinobi often means fighting not just for those closest to you, but for your entire village and country. While protecting your village may include safeguarding your loved ones, the broader duty of defending your nation extends beyond them. Hinata's kindness and compassion seem to be what drive her as a shinobi—her desire to protect her comrades, family, and others around her. Growing up feeling unwanted likely fuels this need to protect. As someone who was overlooked and abandoned by her own father, being able to feel needed by others may have given her a sense of purpose as a shinobi. But I still wonder how Hinata will feel if killing someone is a means to protect the one she loves. How would she process the emotions of taking someone's life?

I guess what I want to know is what you think about all this? What path would be more interesting to explore with Hinata’s character?Anyways, thank you for reading this long rant about a side character I have a bit of an unhealthy hyper fixation for lol. 💜

[theonlyqualitytrash]

Have you ever watched the show Infinity Train? It's on YouTube if you haven't seen it. Anyway, what do you think would happen if some of the bsd cast got stuck on the train?

Hello there! ^^ Thank you so much for your ask! I had such a great time brainstorming and imagining different scenarios for it.

Honestly, I feel like every character in the BSD cast could benefit from some therapy, so I just kept adding more and more characters—couldn’t help myself! (I really need a stop button.) When I first got your ask, I hadn’t yet watched Infinity Train, so I’m sorry for the delay in getting back to you. But I hope the length of this post shows just how much I loved your idea.

In this post, I’ll dive into what each character needs to work on, share some of my headcanons, explore their fate, and talk about their relationships with The Cat.

Just a heads up: this post is pretty long and does contain spoilers for Infinity Train, so if you’re not caught up yet, proceed with caution!

Atsushi

Atsushi struggles with his self worth, the right to keep living and making decisions on his own; He is strong under someone's guidance, but gets crippled by his anxiety if he does not have that support.

First encounter with the cat:

"Oh mon Dieu, a shapeshifter? And not just any shapeshifter—a tiger? How utterly marvelous!" She says as she circles around him, her tail flicking, already plotting something. "You simply must let me borrow you for just a tiny favor. Nothing too difficult—just a little distraction while I, shall we say, acquire something of importance~?" Atsushi, deadpan: "Absolutely not." They end up being the most reluctant duo ever. Atsushi is exasperated and The Cat is entertained. He does not trust her, but she still manages to get him involved in her schemes. She even ends up helping him lower his number without meaning to—by forcing him to think on his feet, make his own decisions, and challenge his instincts to always do what he’s told.

General headcanons:

He would most likely run away from ghoms, as they are unfamiliar and dangerous. Atsushi is not the type to fight first, especially not against something he doesn’t understand, like ghoms. He’d probably panic, try to run, and only fight if there was absolutely no other choice—but even then, he’d aim to disable rather than destroy.

He genuinely cares about the denizens of the train, treating them with kindness and respect, as he views them as people.

He is surprisingly good at solving puzzles. Despite his struggles with decision-making and self-doubt, Atsushi is good at problem-solving when he puts his mind to it.

Over time, Atsushi becomes a quiet but steady source of hope for other passengers he encounters. He would probably try to help others get off the train, even if he himself hasn’t figured it out yet.

The Chrome Car:

Atsushi’s biggest enemy has always been his own mind, so facing a version of himself that sees him as weak? That would be brutal. Chrome!Atsushi is more aggressive, assertive, and confident—likely from observing Atsushi’s struggles and self-directed pep talks in the mirror. He calls Atsushi out for hesitating, doubting himself, and constantly relying on others for direction. With an exasperated sigh, he rolls his eyes and scoffs, “I don’t understand how we’re the same person. You have all this power, and you waste it.” His voice hardens. “You’re always waiting for someone to tell you what to do. No wonder people keep using you.” And the worst part? Atsushi agrees. At first, he doesn’t argue—because deep down, he believes Chrome!Atsushi is right. He’s spent so long questioning his own worth that hearing his doubts reflected back at him makes them feel even more undeniable. When he finally tries to push back, insisting that kindness isn’t weakness, Chrome!Atsushi doesn’t buy it. Their confrontation would mirror (no pun intended) Tulip’s struggle with her Chrome counterpart. His number drops slightly after the encounter, a small step forward, but he still has a long journey ahead.

Fate on the train:

He’s the type to question every lesson, every experience, and hesitate before fully accepting his growth. I see him getting close to the exit multiple times—his number almost dropping to zero, only to go back up. But eventually, he will leave—with a new sense of self and a little more faith in his own choices.

Akutagawa

Akutagawa, like Atsushi, struggles with his self-worth and his right to exist, rooted in his survival-of-the-fittest mentality. His greatest obstacle is his relentless need to prove himself, driven by a deep-seated inferiority complex. He ties his value to external success and recognition rather than any intrinsic sense of self-worth, making him emotionally volatile and desperate for validation. His number would only start to drop once he begins to understand that his worth isn’t dependent on being "useful" but on simply being.

First Encounter with the cat:

The moment she starts her usual playful, smug attitude, Akutagawa would be done with her. He wouldn’t even give her time to talk—he’d activate Rashōmon immediately, ready to shred her into ribbons. The moment Akutagawa activates Rashōmon, The Cat would hiss, leap backward, and immediately rethink her life choices. She knows a bad deal when she sees one, and this angry, coughing, trench-coat murder machine is not worth the trouble. She’d dart away and watch from a safe distance, silently judging. "Ah. A rabid dog. How��� unfortunate." The Cat would not push her luck with Akutagawa. She’d observe, make a few remarks, and keep her distance. Akutagawa, in turn, would ignore her completely—unless she somehow proved useful. I would see no real conflict, just mutual avoidance and silent judgment.

General headcanons:

Akutagawa got stuck in the Cross-Eye Duck Car for an embarrassingly long time.

He tried to cut tthrough the Train with Rashomon—Was Met with the Void™.

The number on his palm is a cruel, constant reminder of his stagnation. He stares at it often, too often.

Debutant ball car:

A lavish golden ballroom stretches before him, glittering with refinement. Overhead, a massive talking chandelier twinkles, greeting him with theatrical flair. Akutagawa is not having it. He has no patience for such nonsense and immediately turns to leave—only to find the doors locked. The chandelier descends with exaggerated grace. “To leave, you must learn to dance and make your proper debut.” “I refuse.” “Your refusal is noted. But you will dance.” Cue a montage of extreme frustration. Akutagawa is stiff, rigid, and painfully awkward. He tries to force his way through the steps with sheer willpower, but that is not how dancing works. The movements require something foreign to him—grace, patience, trust. At first, he brushes it all off as pointless. But slowly, something shifts. The repetition of the steps, the steady rhythm of the music—it’s… oddly calming. No one is attacking him, and no one is demanding he prove his worth through strength or violence. For the first time in a long time, Akutagawa is simply existing. When the moment for his official debut arrives, he moves through the waltz effortlessly. The octopus people applaud. The chandelier proclaims him an honored debutant. And at last, the exit door unlocks. His number drops—not by much, but enough. He doesn’t fully understand what he’s learned, but he feels different.

Fate on the train:

Akutagawa's epiphany moment would happen when someone calls him strong—but not for his power, not for Rashomon, not for winning a fight. Maybe he helps someone in a way that isn’t violent.

Maybe he shows restraint, compassion, or understanding—something small, but deeply uncharacteristic of the Akutagawa that first stepped onto the train. When he finally reaches zero he doesn’t feel triumphant or victorious—just… at peace. The exit door appears, and he steps through without hesitation.

Ango

Ango drowns himself in work, using it as a way to numb the guilt he refuses to let go of. He has betrayed so many for the "greater good" that he fully believes he deserves the hate—especially from Dazai. Even so, he still helps Dazai whenever he can, not for Dazai’s sake, but for Oda’s. He wasn’t directly responsible for Oda’s death, but that doesn’t matter—he still feels like he owes him. Ango doesn’t seek forgiveness, nor does he expect it. But what he truly needs is to learn that self-inflicted suffering is not atonement. Also, he depersonalizes himself but refuses to let others be forgotten. He doesn’t see himself as someone worth grieving over, but for others? He painstakingly records their names, their lives, their deaths, because they mattered. He won’t let them become just another casualty in a report. Maybe it’s his way of trying make up for the fact that he has to make choices—choices that cost lives.

First encounter with the cat:

Ango steps into the cluttered, treasure-filled car, immediately feeling the weight of the disarray surrounding him. The chaos of old antiques and forgotten objects piles up around him like a maze. The Cat, ever observant, watches him closely. Noticing the subtle glimmer of curiosity in his eyes, she smiles with an almost knowing amusement. "Good taste," she comments playfully, her tone light but teasing. Ango doesn’t react immediately but can’t help but acknowledge the compliment in his own quiet way. There's a strange understanding between them—an appreciation for old, lost things, the stories that linger in the forgotten corners. As they speak, Ango can’t hold back his question about the number on his palm, the mark that seems to follow him, burdening him with unknown meaning. The Cat’s response is as cryptic as ever, her words teasing at the edges of something deeper but never fully revealing it. She seems to enjoy the back-and-forth, her eyes dancing with mischief as she observes his attempt to untangle her riddles. Though he doesn't fully trust her, there’s something about the interaction that keeps him on edge, and yet oddly intrigued. He can't quite shake the feeling that she knows more about him than she's letting on—and that, perhaps, they’re more alike than either of them would admit.

General headcanons:

He keeps a small journal during his time on the train, documenting his thoughts, his progress, and any notable things he encounters. Writing down his feelings might help him process what’s going on, though he’d rarely share it with anyone.

He would overwork himself even here: He treats self-improvement like a job, pushing himself relentlessly to figure out what he needs to “fix” so he can get off the train. He takes mental notes on his own behavior, trying to measure progress as if personal growth is something that can be quantified.

Ango and his tape:

Ango stumbles upon the tape by accident, and before he knows it, he’s pulled into it. He finds himself reliving his memories, the moments spent with Dazai and Oda. The overwhelming weight of his guilt, his choices, and his constant self-punishment fades away. In the tape, he feels lighter—calmer—like he’s finally at peace. Oda is alive, laughing and talking with him as if nothing ever happened. They share an easy conversation, perhaps discussing life or just being in each other's presence. What matters most is that, for the first time in so long, Ango doesn’t feel the crushing burden of his decisions. The weight of his responsibilities lifts, and he can almost convince himself that everything is as it once was. But then, reality crashes in. That’s not how it happened. Oda’s dead. Dazai’s harsh words echo in his mind, telling him never to show his face at Lupin again. The false serenity shatters, the illusion crumbling to the ground and leaving Ango to suddenly realize that it is all a lie. The life he’s been reliving is a curated version of the past—artificial and unattainable. His chest tightens as the truth settles in. This was never his reality. It never could have been. When he pulls himself away from the tape, he feels physically sick. His mind is disoriented, as if it’s still clinging to the illusion, struggling to reconcile the peaceful image he just experienced with the bitter truth of his life.

Fate on the train:

I think it would take for him a very very long time to get off the train, guilt is not an easy thing to get over.

Ango will realize at some point that his past mistakes won’t disappear, but he can learn to live alongside them without constantly being consumed by them. Perhaps he learns to forgive himself bit by bit—understanding that he doesn’t have to live in perpetual atonement to be worthy of peace.

Chuuya

He has always been defined by others—first by the Sheep, then the Mafia, and later by his connection to Dazai. His existence has never truly been his own, shaped instead by the expectations of those around him. Even his immense power isn’t something he chose but something that was forced upon him as Arahabaki’s vessel. Whether as the Sheep’s leader, the Port Mafia’s strongest fighter, or Dazai’s partner, he has always been seen as a tool, never just as himself. Deeply loyal yet hesitant to open up, he craves genuine human connection, but years of betrayal and being used have made him wary, leaving him caught between longing and distrust.

First interaction with the cat:

“Monsieur! A distinguished gentleman such as yourself!” The Cat purrs as she presents her latest creation with a dramatic flourish. “You have arrived just in time for my most exquisite product yet!” She pulls out… a hat with a hole punched straight through the middle. "...What the hell is that?” The Cat smirks. “A donut, of course!” He squints. It is, very clearly, just a ruined hat. “That’s a hat with a hole in it,” he deadpans. “Non, non, non! It was a hat. But with the revolutionary Donut Holer™—” she gestures proudly to a rusty metal pipe sitting next to a pile of equally destroyed hats, “—I have transformed it into a fine delicacy! A donut, as you humans call it.” Chuuya exhales slowly, pressing his fingers to his temple. After this interaction he actively avoids The Cat whenever possible. He has neither the time nor the patience for her ridiculous schemes, and every encounter with her leaves him feeling one step closer to a migraine. Still, he isn’t naive. If The Cat has something useful—a shortcut, information about the train, anything that might actually help him get off—he’ll work with her. He doesn’t trust her, but he knows she can be resourceful. That doesn’t mean he has to like it.

General headcanons:

The first thing he did after escaping his first car was try to fly off the train. Naturally, the train—being a pocket dimension with invisible barriers—did not care. He got flung right back to the train, cursed loudly, and spent a solid minute pacing in frustration before admitting defeat.

For some reason, most denizens end up loving him. He doesn’t try to be particularly friendly, but something about his no-nonsense attitude and unexpected patience makes him weirdly well-liked.

He takes care of people without thinking about it. If someone looks lost or overwhelmed, he’ll wordlessly toss them a piece of advice or physically drag them out of a bad situation. He pretends it didn’t happen immediately after.

Mediterranean Republic Car

The train doors open, and Chuuya finds himself in a sun-drenched countryside. Rolling green hills, warm stone houses, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt and wine. The denizens? Flower people, living simple lives. They run vineyards, tend to gardens, and speak in soft, content voices. No fights. No schemes. No need to prove himself. He keeps waiting for the catch—a hidden enemy, a test, something. But nothing comes. The denizens simply welcome him, offer him wine, and ask about his journey. Slowly, Chuuya lets himself relax. He drinks the wine, listens to the laughter of the denizens, and walks the peaceful roads in quiet contemplation. This is the life Verlaine wanted for him. The life he never got. He feels human here. Not a gravity-manipulating experiment, not a Mafia executive. The flower denizens never question his existence. To them, he is simply Chuuya, no strings attached. Slowly, it dawns on him—they don’t see a monster, a test subject, a weapon. Just a man.

Fate on the train:

Spending time in the Mediterranean Republic Car is the turning point for Chuuya. For once, he isn’t a weapon or Arahabaki’s vessel. The flower people treat him like anyone else, not as something to be controlled or feared. It’s disorienting at first, but slowly, it settles into something almost… comforting. He doesn’t immediately recognize how much it changes him. When he finally leaves the train, he knows truly, that his past does not define his humanity.

Dazai

I, like many others, went through all seven stages of grief with Dazai’s character. At first, I loved him. Then I started questioning why I even liked him. Then I hated him. And now?

Trying to dissect Dazai would take an entire essay—he's a walking contradiction, layered and impossible to pin down. At his core, he wrestles with the conflict between his desire for death and his search for meaning in life. Beneath his humor and carefree façade lies a deep-seated self-loathing and existential despair, carefully hidden from those around him. This duality fuels his self-destructive tendencies—he believes himself unworthy of happiness, even as he tries, in his own way, to be better.

First interaction with the cat:

Dazai finds The Cat’s antics entertaining but doesn’t fully trust her. He plays along with her schemes, but internally, he’s always analyzing her motives. He eggs her on just to see how far she’ll take things; playing dumb when she tries to con him, acting as if he’s about to fall for it. He keeps things lighthearted and playful but never lets her get the upper hand. He’s not an easy mark, and The Cat might find him frustratingly unreadable, since he constantly plays mind games back at her. Would they be friends? Not really. Would they tolerate each other? Yes, but with a lot of playful suspicion.

General headcanons:

Dazai would find the Chess Car intriguing at first, but then he realizes none of it makes sense. The game follows rules that feel like an AI’s warped interpretation of chess—it was a headache to get out of that car.

Between cars, he hesitated. Just one step, and it’d be over. But then the thought passed, it would be too painful and messy—and no beautiful lady to do it with.

He would also develop a strange tolerance for the denizens. He’d initially treat them as just part of the train’s weird mechanics—nothing interesting, but over time, he’d start engaging with them more, slipping into casual conversation as if they were just ordinary people.

Not having done any progress in some days, he would start rolling around on the floor out of stress.

The crystal car:

Dazai steps into the Crystal Car, greeted by an endless, glittering landscape. But his usual flippant attitude fades when he realizes the exit is locked—and the only way forward is through something deeply personal. When Greige mimes the challenge—"Sing from the heart" Dazai shrugs. "That’s it? What an easy game." He confidently places his hand on the resonance crystal and begins singing. "You can't do... a double suicide all on your own...". He barely gets through the first verse before… Nothing. The crystals don’t react. He blinks, slightly confused. Why didn’t that work? He tries again, voice smooth and carefree. "Boom, boom, it takes two who don't wanna die all alone!" Still no response. Dazai leans against a crystal, quiet for a moment. His mind drifts—not to suicide, not to tragedy, but to something… softer. The low crackle of an old radio in Bar Lupin. The warmth of cigarette smoke, cheap whiskey, and laughter. Oda leaning back in his seat, Ango taking a quiet sip of his drink. And a song—an old, forgotten tune—playing in the background. Almost without thinking, he starts humming it. The moment the tune leaves his lips, the crystals stir. Dazai doesn’t smile, doesn’t joke—for the first time in a long time, he just exists in the moment. The crystal giant appears, unlocking the door. A strange tightness sits in his chest, something unfamiliar. He exhales, glancing at his hand—his number has dropped slightly.

Fate on the train:

It’s harder to face your emotions than to simply pretend they don’t exist—mask them with humor and bury them deep. “What does this metal box even want from me? I have changed!” Despite his resistance, the train does its job, forcing Dazai to confront his issues. When he finally steps off, he’s a little lighter, but still undeniably annoyed.

Fukuzawa-Fukuchi

Fukuzawa’s Struggle

Fukuzawa holds himself to an unrealistic standard because so many depend on him, believing that if he falters, those under him will suffer. He carries the burden of being a protector, founding the Agency to shield the gifted from abuse—but he still questions if he is doing enough. Unlike Fukuchi, he’s always been cautious and restrained, but deep down, he compares himself to his old friend, wondering if he should have acted more boldly. His greatest regret is losing Fukuchi to the path he walks now, and he still wonders if there was something he could have done differently to prevent it.

Fukuchi’s Struggle

Fukuchi believes he is the only one who can fix the world, burdened by the failures of others. In his eyes, Fukuzawa abandoned him, leaving him with no one to share the weight of his mission. His noble intentions became corrupted by manipulation, pushed further by Fyodor’s lies. Despite his arrogance, he still cares deeply about Fukuzawa’s opinion—but he would rather die than admit it. His anger masks the wounded loyalty still buried beneath.

First encounter with the cat:

Fukuzawa immediately likes her. He’s always had a soft spot for felines, and the fact that this one talks and hoards trinkets only makes her more endearing. They get along quite well—Fukuzawa respects her autonomy, and The Cat enjoys his quiet, cat-loving energy. Fukuchi, seeing Fukuzawa instantly warm up to the Cat, scoffs. "You're really bonding with a talking cat?" The Cat, unimpressed, side-eyes him. "You're really not?" She doesn’t trust Fukuchi—something about him rubs her the wrong way. Maybe it’s the warlord energy. Maybe it’s the smugness. Either way, she keeps her distance. Fukuchi, in turn, thinks she’s just another obnoxious denizen wasting his time. Fukuzawa and The Cat are instant friends. Whereas Fukuchi and The Cat trade passive-aggressive comments. She will actively roast Fukuchi whenever given the chance.

General headcanons:

They would have synced numbers because their issues stem from each other—Fukuzawa’s regret over losing Fukuchi, and Fukuchi’s resentment toward Fukuzawa.

In a peaceful car, they end up sharing drinks, sitting in silence. Neither directly acknowledges it, but it’s the closest they’ve felt to how things used to be.

The Spa car:

Steam curls through the air. The only sounds are the distant trickle of water and the occasional shift of heated stones. It was Fukuchi’s idea to stop, to take a moment—he hadn’t been in a sauna in ages. For a long while, they sit in silence, the heat sinking into tired muscles, the quiet settling deep into their bones. Then, finally, Fukuzawa speaks, his voice low, measured. "I don't hate you. You did what you thought was right." Here, in the stillness, without war or duty hanging over them, the words come easier. No accusations, no justifications—just the simple truth. Two old friends, stripped of everything but themselves. And in the end, there is nothing left to do but acknowledge the weight of it all. A quiet embrace, a moment of understanding neither of them asks for but both accept. After a beat, Fukuchi huffs a laugh. "Is it weird that we're only in towels?" Fukuzawa exhales, shaking his head in mock exasperation. But there’s the barest hint of a smile on his lips.

Fate on the train:

They would get out rather quickly. With nothing left to focus on but their own respective problems—and because they’re grown men—they’d make progress faster than expected.

Fyodor

Oh boy—now let's see... distorted worldview, savior complex, deep-set loneliness, and isolation. In essence, Fyodor's biggest struggle is that he is a man who believes he must save the world, pushing past the cost of doing so—the loss of his own humanity and the destruction of those around him. His savior complex becomes a self-destructive cycle, where the more he strives to "fix" the world, the more he isolates himself from the one thing he truly needs to feel fulfilled: human connection and compassion. He will only escape the train when he realizes that he does not need to fix anything—but find peace for himself and a bit of compassion from others.

First encounter with the cat:

The Cat, with her usual charm, would approach Fyodor, offering something absurd or quirky. Her exuberance would be in stark contrast to Fyodor’s controlled demeanor. "How quaint… a creature like you, playing with such childish nonsense." He’d humor her with a brief glance or nod, but remain emotionally distant. The Cat would immediately sense something off about him but wouldn’t push too hard, used to the complicated personalities of the passages. Fyodor, though amused, wouldn’t trust her due to her unpredictability. He’d see her as just another curiosity on the train, politely distant but not threatened. Over time, The Cat would continue trailing him, intrigued by his calm, enigmatic demeanor. Fyodor would acknowledge her presence with polite indifference, not revealing anything deeper, but perhaps with a flicker of amusement. Despite his efforts to avoid her though, The Cat would grow increasingly fascinated by him, sensing potential beneath his stoic exterior. Over time, their relationship would remain cordial, with him offering polite dismissals and her continuing to probe his calm exterior.

General headcanons:

I do not want to think about the implications of Fyodor being killed by a ghome. Even if his ability worked, it could trap him in a warped, unstable existence—something non-human, something he couldn’t control.

He does find the train interesting—an engaging distraction where each car presents a new challenge.

Will absolutely kick the toad no problem but will politely apologize afterward.

Genuinely enjoyed the crossword car.

Crossed paths with Amelia once. They were both a little too sharp-tongued for their own good.

Scoffs at the idea of the train being "therapy," dismissing it as a crude, artificial attempt at forced change. But the thought lingers. If manipulation won’t get him off the train, then true change might be the only way—and that thought unsettles him more than he’d like to admit.

Not a headcanon but an interesting tidbit of information: the denizen in the cube car and himself share the same name.

Iceberg car:

Snow, endless snow, and the quiet blanket of ice. Fyodor wouldn’t rush to leave this place. Instead, he’d linger for a moment, his guard never fully down, but for once, he lets the cold air fill his lungs—sharp, familiar, a strange comfort. Home... He’d scoop up some snow, watching it settle in his palm before slowly crushing it between his fingers. How long has it been since he last set foot in his homeland? The weight of the question lingers, unspoken, but the answer is irrelevant. For now, in this moment, he allows himself the indulgence of remembering.

Fate on the train:

Fyodor is incredibly self-aware and blind at the same time, meaning he would recognize his flaws, but accepting change is another story entirely. He sees himself as above worldly attachments, and breaking that mindset would be nearly impossible.

If he ever did change, it would be slow, begrudging, and almost accidental. He wouldn’t have a grand revelation—rather, something small and human would unsettle him, forcing him to question himself in a way he can't ignore.

Ultimately, whether he gets off the train depends on one thing: Can he accept that he is just a man, not a savior?

Kyouka

Kyouka's biggest struggle is self-worth. She has always been defined by her past as a weapon and the trauma that came with it, especially under the influence of the Port Mafia. For so long, she’s been told that her value lies in her ability to serve someone else's cause, this leaving her with a deep fear of not being able to stand on her own and questioning if she’s capable of being more than the person she was forced to be. She struggles with finding her identity outside of the trauma and the expectations placed on her. Additionally, there's a sense of guilt over her past actions—having hurt others, even if she didn’t want to.

First encounter with the cat:

Of course the Cat would be talking a mile a minute, completely unfazed by Kyouka's calm demeanor. Kyouka, on the other hand, would probably blink a few times, a little confused by the oddity of the situation. She's not easily rattled, but she might tilt her head slightly, observing the Cat's antics with quiet curiosity. She might even give a small, polite smile, but it would be a little awkward, like she's not entirely sure what to do with someone like The Cat. Kyouka would likely try to keep her distance, not quite used to The Cat’s overly forward nature. She'd probably be too polite to outright reject whatever the Cat was offering, but there would be a gentle refusal: "No, thank you..." Her voice would be soft and controlled, with an air of caution as she tries to figure out the Cat’s intentions. In the end, their interaction would be more about observation than anything else. Kyouka might not fully understand The Cat, but she'd respect her space. The Cat would, of course, find her intriguing but wouldn’t push too hard. They wouldn’t be close friends right off the bat, but the foundations of a relatively peaceful relationship would be set.

General headcanons:

Kyouka actually enjoys the "boring" cars on the train, finding comfort in their quiet simplicity. It’s a rare opportunity for her to relax without the usual chaos.

She has a habit of collecting small trinkets from the different cars—stones, seashells, and flowers. They’re little, personal reminders of her journey.

Once, while lost in thought on a puzzle, she was startled by a denizen behind her, drawing her knife instinctively. The denizen fell back in surprise, and Kyouka, apologized awkwardly.

Though she keeps her distance, Kyouka observes others closely, intrigued by how people form bonds and handle their struggles, even if she doesn’t engage herself.

When The Apex tried to recruit her, she politely declined, preferring to stay independent and navigate the train on her own terms.

Doily car:

Kyouka would step into the Doily Car, immediately taken aback by how soft and delicate everything is. This one feels… safe. Warm. Almost like stepping into a quiet dream. The Crochet People welcome her gently, noticing her reserved nature. At first, Kyouka simply watches them go about their lives, particularly intrigued by the way they craft small plush figures. Their precise, rhythmic movements captivate her. Eventually, they hand her a crochet hook and some yarn, silently encouraging her to try. Though hesitant at first, Kyouka gives it a go, her fingers moving carefully, focused on getting it right. It’s calming in a way she didn’t expect. By the time she’s ready to leave, one of the crochet people hands her a small bunny doll they made just for her. She doesn’t say much, but she clutches it tightly as she leaves. It’s soft. Familiar. Something she can hold onto when things get difficult. And for that, she’s grateful.

Fate on the train:

Kyouka would likely spend a long time on the train, not because she refuses to change, but because she struggles to understand what change even means for her. She’s already trying to be a better person, already walking the path toward self-discovery—so what else is there? What is she still missing? Her journey wouldn’t be one of rebellion or outright denial but quiet contemplation. She would go from car to car, learning, watching, collecting small mementos without really knowing why. It’s not until she realizes that she gets to decide what kind of future she wants—not just following orders, not just atoning, but truly living—that her number finally reaches zero.

Kenji

Kenji’s main struggle isn’t deep internal conflict, but rather the balance between his overwhelming kindness and the destructive power he possesses. While he has the potential for immense destruction, especially if he's consumed by strong emotions like rage or sadness, Kenji has an extraordinary ability to keep his emotions in check. His kindness and compassion allow him to navigate a violent world without giving in to the darker sides of himself.

First encounter with the cat:

The Cat would see Kenji and immediately be reminded of Simon—his youth, blond hair, and cheerful nature striking an old, buried chord in her. Unlike her usual playful or mischievous approach with passengers, she would treat Kenji with a quiet, almost motherly warmth, as if trying to make amends for what happened with Simon. She wouldn’t openly acknowledge this, of course, but her actions would speak for themselves—she would actively stay by Kenji’s side, a rare departure from how she usually interacts with passengers. Whether consciously or not, she would gravitate toward him, walking alongside him through different cars, engaging him in conversation, and offering small tokens or words of advice. Kenji, in turn, would accept her presence with a bright smile and an open heart, never questioning why she stuck around—just happy to have a companion, unaware of the guilt and quiet sorrow driving it.

General headcanons:

His number would be ridiculously low, probably around 6. He adapts quickly, and doesn’t struggle with deep-seated personal conflict like most passengers. If anything, the train might struggle to find things for him to “fix.”

He would unintentionally speedrun the train. Puzzle cars? Solved in minutes. Emotional breakthroughs? Already had them before stepping onto the train. The only thing slowing him down is that he keeps stopping to help others.

Denizens adore him.

At some point, he casually punches through a door. Not out of frustration—just because he thought that was how to open it.

Family tree car:

Kenji accidentally and effortlessly steps into the role of family therapist, resolving disputes in record time. He listens to everyone's grievances with genuine patience and warmth, treating the feuding Gillicutys and Trundleshanks like familiar neighbors from his village. Rather than arguing, he shares heartwarming stories of his hometown—tales of cooperation, understanding, and the importance of letting go of old grudges. His words resonate so deeply that the portraits pause, reflect, and slowly begin to reconsider their feuds. By the time he's finished, both families are exchanging apologies, their long-standing resentment fading into reconciliation.

Fate on the train:

Kenji's fate on the train would be a quick exit. The cat would watch him leave, feeling a bittersweet sense of pride. She would be sad to see him go, but also proud, because in helping Kenji, she’d feel like she finally did something right after her failure with Simon. It would be a quiet, emotional goodbye, as Kenji’s innocence and goodness had made an impression on her.

Lovecraft

Lovecraft isn’t exactly human in the way the others are, so he doesn’t really have the same kind of emotional struggles or deep-seated trauma that the train usually forces passengers to work through. He’s more of an entity than a person—his problems, if he even has them, wouldn’t be about personal growth but more about… cosmic weirdness? If anything, his biggest "struggle" might just be existing in a world that isn't built for beings like him. He doesn’t seem particularly invested in human affairs, nor does he seem to have personal desires beyond idly going along with whatever’s happening. He doesn’t care about power, morality, or even survival in the way most beings do.

First encounter with the cat:

She approaches like she does with everyone, but the moment she gets close, her entire demeanor shifts. Her fur stands on end. Her tail puffs up. There’s no reason for it—Lovecraft hasn’t moved, hasn’t even looked at her, he is the perfect picture of calmness, maybe boredom—but something in her gut is screaming NO. Lovecraft, meanwhile, barely reacts. Maybe he blinks one eye open lazily, yawns, and mumbles something like, "Mm… you smell funny." Before closing his eyes again, already drifting back into whatever half-sleep state he exists in. The Cat, who rarely gets rattled, never gets spooked, immediately decides: Nope. No thank you. Not dealing with that. She just backs away, slow and careful, and makes a mental note to stay as far away from him as possible. She doesn’t even try to mess with him after that. He’s the only passenger she doesn’t attempt to pry into. Whatever he is… she wants nothing to do with it.

General headcanons:

People mistake him for a denizen; He barely reacts to most things, doesn’t seem concerned about getting off the train, and just exists in a way that’s eerily similar to the background elements of the train.

His number is broken anyway—It flickers, shifts, and just doesn’t exist in a way that makes sense. Someone tried to look at it, and it was just...eldritch runes? The train tried, but it doesn’t know what to do with him.

He doesn’t really understand the train either. Not in a confused way, but more in a detached way. When someone tried to explain the whole “self-improvement” thing, he just blinked slowly and went, “Mm… sounds like a lot.”

The beach car:

Lovecraft sees the ocean, shrugs, and just walks in without hesitation. No reaction, no sense of urgency—he just disappears beneath the waves like it’s the most natural thing in the world. He ends up in Randall Town, completely unfazed by the fact that it's underwater. The inhabitants take one look at this unbothered, eldritch-looking guy who strolls into their city and immediately assume he's some kind of deity. A religion forms around him almost overnight. Randall Town starts treating him like an honored guest, bringing him offerings—chocolates, ice cream, maybe even a little seashell necklace. Lovecraft, still half-asleep, just accepts it all with a sleepy, "Mm… thanks." He does not correct them. Not out of malice, just pure apathy. If they want to worship him, that’s their business. He ends up napping in some grand coral temple they build for him, completely unaware of how much of a cultural shift he’s caused.

Fate on the train:

He settles in Randall Town because it’s comfortable, quiet, and most importantly, full of people willing to bring him food. Randall starts worshiping him as some kind of deep-sea deity. He doesn’t encourage it, but he also doesn’t stop it—because, well, why would he?

He takes the offerings without a word. If they bow or chant strange prayers? Whatever. Not his problem.

He doesn’t even rule the town or anything—he’s just… there. A permanent, immovable fixture of Randall Town.

The Cat, from a very safe distance, watches this unfold with growing horror. Of course he ended up with a cult. Of course Randall started worshiping him. She refuses to go anywhere near Randall Town ever again. Lovecraft, meanwhile, remains completely unbothered. He has food, a comfy place to nap, and a bunch of weird little water people who adore him. He’s never leaving.

Lucy

Lucy struggles with abandonment issues, fear of rejection, and a deep need for control. Her harsh upbringing in the orphanage left her with scars—both physical and emotional—teaching her that mistakes lead to punishment and that love is conditional. Her ability was her only refuge, but it also made her an outcast, reinforcing her loneliness. Beneath her fiery attitude and sharp tongue, Lucy hides a deep fear of rejection and a desperate need for security. Her "mean girl" demeanor served as armor, keeping others at a distance so they can’t see just how much she longs for acceptance—a place where she won’t be left behind.

First encounter with the cat:

Their first meeting would be a rollercoaster of emotions—mostly on Lucy’s end. At first, she’d be delighted. "Oh, a kitty!" She crouches slightly, reaching out as if to pet The Cat. Then The Cat speaks. "My, my, aren’t you a lively one?" Lucy freezes. Her expression drops. “…What.” The Cat smiles, sitting down and curling her tail around her paws. “What, have you never seen a talking cat before?” Lucy straightens up, arms crossing as she glares. “You’re creepy.” The Cat tilts her head. “Rude.” She is genuinely confused by Lucy’s hostility. She flicks her tail with exaggerated offense. “I see, I am clearly not wanted here.” Lucy’s heart stutters in her chest. There’s a familiar, unwelcome pang in her gut—the creeping sensation of being left alone. Again. Even if The Cat is weird, even if she gets under her skin, she’s still someone. Before she can think it through, she blurts out, “I never said that.” Not quite an apology, not quite an invitation. The Cat pauses, eyes gleaming with amusement. “Ohhh, so now you want me around?” Lucy groans, rolling her eyes. “Shut up.” But she doesn’t tell The Cat to leave. And The Cat, thoroughly entertained, decides to stick around.

General headcanons:

She acts like the train is the biggest inconvenience in the world, but deep down, she loves the mystery and drama of it all.

She keeps getting into arguments with denizens.

Her number confuses and frustrates her. She checks it constantly, scowls at it, and even tries yelling at it to change faster.

Acts like she doesn’t care about The Cat, but secretly relies on her. She’ll roll her eyes and sass back, but if she disappears for too long, Lucy will start looking for her.

Origami car:

The delicate, folded world reminds her of Anne’s room—not in appearance, but in feeling. Both spaces feel like places where a child could finally feel safe. And for the first time, Lucy’s inner child does. In a world where she’s been forced to suppress her emotions and put up walls to survive, the peaceful atmosphere of the Origami Car provides Lucy with an opportunity to reflect and engage with her own feelings. She is alone in the car, but not lonely, not afraid of being alone. The Origami Car teaches Lucy to form a connection, not with others, but with herself. Her number would drop significantly in this car.

Fate on the train:

Lucy would leave the train, but not quickly. She’d resist at first, clinging to her usual habits—pushing people away, trying to prove she doesn’t need anyone, acting like none of this affects her. But the train, of course, isn't fooled. Lucy will leave the train when she learns to cope with her fear of abandonment and rejection—not by erasing it, but by understanding it doesn’t have to control her.

Musitaro

Mushitaro’s biggest struggle is his deep-seated loneliness and guilt. He presents himself as smug, theatrical, and self-assured, but it’s all a front to mask how lost he feels without Yokomizo. His entire life revolved around his best friend, and after losing him, he’s left without a real purpose. He tells himself he’s fine alone, that he doesn’t need anyone, but the truth is, he’s terrified of connection—because to him, getting close to someone means risking the pain of losing them.

First encounter with the cat:

The Cat, ever the opportunist, takes one look at Mushitaro and sees potential. His refined dress, his carefully groomed demeanor—surely, someone of his presentation would be well-received in matters of business. And so, she approaches, eyes gleaming with the promise of opportunity. “You carry yourself with an air of distinction,” she muses, circling him like a merchant appraising fine wares. “Tell me, have you ever considered expanding your considerable talents into the realm of commerce? I find myself in need of a partner—one with charm, poise, and an appreciation for the finer things in life.” Mushitaro’s brow twitches. “You cannot be serious.” “Quite the contrary. You, monsieur, possess all the makings of a most successful businessman. A mind such as yours should not be wasted.” She offers a knowing smile. “Think of it—wealth, influence, the admiration of those beneath you. All within reach, should you simply seize the opportunity.” Mushitaro exhales sharply through his nose, adjusting his cuffs as if to shake off the absurdity of the conversation. “If you believe I would stoop to peddling whatever charlatanry you are involved in, you are gravely mistaken. I am a man of literature, of refinement. I do not ‘sell.’” The Cat watches him for a moment, tail flicking. Then, with a slow, measured nod, she steps aside. “C'est la vie. I had hoped you would recognize the brilliance of this endeavor. But alas, not all minds are suited for vision.” Mushitaro scoffs, turning on his heel, coat flaring with the motion. “Good day.” He strides off, determined to leave this nonsense behind. And yet, much to his dismay, it is not the last he sees of her. No, the Cat has taken an interest in him now—and once she does, she is not so easily dissuaded.

General headcanons:

Mushitaro treats the train like an elaborate personal inconvenience. He complains about the absurdity of it all but still begrudgingly plays along because what choice does he have?

Any car requiring physical exertion is his personal nightmare. If forced into an obstacle course car or something equally undignified, he will gripe the entire way through.

Runway car:

Mushitaro would step into the Fashion Show car with a dramatic sigh, muttering under his breath about how utterly ridiculous the entire idea is. He’d roll his eyes at the flashy décor and extravagant setup, but there’s no hiding the flicker of genuine interest in his eyes when he sees the finely tailored outfits displayed on mannequins. He quietly admires the clothes while pretending to be above it all. As Sashay, the flamboyant host, rushes forward with over-the-top enthusiasm, Mushitaro would maintain his cool, offering nothing more than a bored glance. Despite his attempts to stay unimpressed, his mind would be working overtime, mentally critiquing the designs and subtly rearranging the outfits in his head to meet his standards. Sloppiness is simply not an option. Walking across the runway with effortless grace, Mushitaro would exude a practiced, almost blasé confidence in his appearance. As he passes Sashay, he’d give a polite but distant nod, trying to downplay how much he’s secretly enjoying the attention. His face would remain cool, but the slight smirk tugging at the corner of his lips would betray his true feelings. When it’s time for feedback, the judges would shower him with praise, gushing over his elegance and impeccable style. Mushitaro would wave it off dismissively, muttering something about “not needing to be treated like a spectacle.” Yet, if anyone paid close enough attention, they’d notice the faint blush on his cheeks, a small but undeniable flicker of pride. He may not want to admit it, but he can't hide the satisfaction of knowing he nailed it. Though he’d leave the car with a final, exaggerated scoff about the absurdity of it all, there’s a spark of amusement in his eyes that he can’t quite suppress. Deep down, he’s satisfied with the experience.

Fate on the train:

Getting over guilt is hard. Acceptance is hard. His stubborn and stuck-up nature only deflects, pushing everything away, unwilling to face what lies beneath. Progress is slow, painfully slow, but eventually, he would get out.

Nikolai

(An oversimplification of Nikolai's problem.) I think Nikolai's problem lies in his deep fear of being overwhelmed—and ultimately controlled—by his emotions. He experiences feelings with intense depth, and this depth scares people away, so rather than embracing his emotions, he tries to escape, seeing emotions as burdens that limit his freedom. He longs to be free from the messiness of being human, believing that if he suppresses or rejects his emotions, he can transcend them. But this constant repression only breeds internal turmoil, for no matter how hard he tries, he cannot escape the fact that emotions are an inseparable part of who he is.

First encounter with the cat:

"Ah! Good sir!" the cat called out, her tail flicking with excitement. "You look like the type of man who knows his way around people. How would you like to join forces with me?" He tilted his head slightly, his playful smirk widening. "Join forces, huh? What exactly are we... joining forces for?" It was obvious he was about to be roped into something strange—not that he minded. The cat beamed. "It’s simple! I have a vision, and I need someone with your skills to help me. A partnership, mon cher! You’ll be my right-hand man, handling the big things while I... take care of the rest!" She winked with a smile. Nikolai chuckled softly. "A right-hand man, you say? That sounds delightful. What exactly would I be doing in this grand venture of yours?" "Oh, all sorts of things!" she said eagerly. "We’ll make big moves—gather resources, meet the right people. It’s a partnership for the ages!" Nikolai’s grin widened. "Big moves, huh? And I assume this will be... completely above board?" He teased, amused by the idea. "Of course! All perfectly legitimate!" she said with complete sincerity. "We’ll be the most successful duo this train has ever seen! We’ll both be rich—très riche!" Nikolai laughed, clearly just playing along with the absurdity of the situation. "Rich? I do like the sound of that. Alright, I’m in, let’s see where this goes, partner." He extended his hand with a flourish. The cat eagerly shook his hand, not realizing that Nikolai was simply along for the ride, enjoying the unpredictable journey ahead. After all, he did not have anything better to do. And his number was not going down any time soon.

General headcanons:

Because Nikolai wears gloves, he doesn’t notice his number until another passenger asks about it. When he takes off his gloves, he’s confused to find it reaching his wrist. After inspecting it further, he realizes it extends up to his shoulder. "Is it supposed to do that?" he mutters, puzzled. It’s just another thing weighing him down, though he quickly brushes it off with a smirk.

His number grows steadily, not because he's doing anything that directly causes it to increase, but because he actively avoids acknowledging it. The more he avoids it, the more it grows—like a stubborn part of his reality he refuses to confront. But that’s exactly how he copes, by pretending it doesn’t matter, while hoping he can somehow outrun it altogether.

Nikolai and Lake both crave freedom, though for different reasons. And I think they would end up understanding each other's need for release if they ended up interacting.

Lucky cat car:

Nikolai steps into the Lucky Cat Car with a bemused look on his face, already feeling a bit like he's stepped into some twisted version of reality. The flashing lights, carnival games, and the raccoon denizens bustling around the various booths catch his attention, but he’s already tired of hearing The Cat talk about her “business opportunity.” He’d expected a quick diversion, maybe some nonsense to pass the time, but somehow—somehow—he ends up running a magic show. The magic show quickly becomes a hit. It’s the perfect setup for him to strut his stuff without showing too much of his true self. The raccoon denizens are an enthusiastic audience, easily impressed by his sleight-of-hand tricks and the way he uses his portal ability to pull objects out of thin air or make things disappear in an instant. The tricks feel effortless to him, and he takes quiet satisfaction in the wonder he elicits, even though he’d never admit to enjoying the attention. What Nikolai doesn’t expect, though, is how well this “business opportunity” keeps him distracted from his growing number. As the days go on, the number on his hand continues to rise, but he does his best to ignore it. It’s just another annoying detail in the back of his mind—one he can’t control.

Fate on the train:

Ultimately, his fate is in his hands: if he can embrace his humanity, his vulnerability and stop running, he might find peace and finally escape the train. But if he can’t confront the very things that make him who he is, the train will keep him in its grip until he does. It’s about whether he chooses to face the fear of rejection and vulnerability that has held him back all his life.

Rampo

Ranpo struggles with self-worth, shaped by a childhood where he felt misunderstood—his way of seeing the world set him apart, leaving him isolated. To cope, he convinced himself he had a special ability, a comforting lie that made him feel unique and valued, but beneath his confidence, he craves recognition and approval, seeking reassurance that he truly matters.

First encounter with the cat:

The Cat saunters up to him with her usual flair, ready to rope him into some elaborate scheme, only for him to cut her off immediately with a flat, “Not interested.” Unfazed, she tries again—spinning a tale about an exclusive opportunity or some “once-in-a-lifetime” deal—but Ranpo just blinks at her, unimpressed, “That sounds like a scam. You’re bad at this.” The Cat, for once, is thrown off, tail flicking in mild irritation. “Well, aren’t you a rude little man?” But Ranpo is already walking away, just waving over his shoulder. “Yep!”

General headcanons:

Ranpo actually feels confused about how he ended up on a train—because if there’s one thing he and public transportation have in common, it’s that they absolutely should not mix.

Spends too much time in the cars that have snacks and candy.

He’s one of the few passengers who openly dislikes the denizens, especially The Cat, finding her more annoying than amusing.

Ironically, he figures out the train’s purpose almost immediately but refuses to openly admit his own faults out of sheer stubbornness.

Unfinished car:

The Unfinished Car would be one of the few places on the train to genuinely make Ranpo stop in his tracks and stare. Half-built structures jut out at odd angles, entire walls are just missing, and gravity itself seems to have no real rules. And yet, despite the sheer absurdity, the turtle people move through their daily lives with complete ease—delivering mail, running businesses, hanging their clothes to dry on floating debris like it’s the most natural thing in the world. Ranpo, who typically dismisses the denizens as nothing more than background noise, actually finds himself fascinated. Not because he suddenly respects them, but because he cannot wrap his head around how this bizarre, nonsensical world actually functions. It shouldn’t work, and yet it does. He watches in thinly veiled disbelief as turtles casually slide on the road using purple goo as transportation. "Huh," he mutters to himself, adjusting his glasses. "That weird." Ranpo dislikes common sense, and the more he observes, the more he wants to understand it. He seeks out Aloysius, the so-called emperor of this strange land, not out of politeness, but because he needs answers. He expects to find some clueless, puffed-up ruler, but instead, he meets someone who is polite and friendly. Aloysius speaks proudly of his kingdom and its achievements. And Ranpo just listens. It’s not out of respect, exactly, but out of genuine curiosity. The Unfinished Car defies reason, and Ranpo, despite himself, needs to know why.

Fate on the train:

"Oh, it’s therapy," he says with a sigh, unimpressed. "Great. How annoying."

And yet, despite knowing exactly what he needs to do, he doesn't do it. Because self-awareness and action are two very different things. He knows he has to confront his insecurities, but actually admitting his faults? Out loud? Where people can hear? Ugh. No thanks. So he drifts from car to car, solving mysteries for fun, poking holes in the train’s logic, and being generally insufferable about how quickly he’s figured everything out. But deep down, he knows he’s just stalling. When he does finally decide to face himself, his number drops fast. In just a few days, he’s at zero. He steps through with a dramatic yawn, acting like the whole thing was so tedious. But, if anyone were watching closely, they’d notice—he walks away just a little lighter.

Sigma

Sigma’s problem is rooted in his deep uncertainty about his identity and the past. His amnesia leaves him with a gaping hole where his memories should be, leaving him unsure of who he truly is or where he belongs. He doesn’t remember where he came from or what his purpose is, and that creates a pervasive feeling of emptiness. On top of that, he doesn’t feel like he has anything to his name—no accomplishments, no past to look back on, nothing to cling to for a sense of self-worth. What he truly craves is a place where he can belong, not as a tool or as someone to be used, but just for who he is. He longs for a sense of permanence and acceptance—people who see him not as someone broken or incomplete, but as someone worthy of love, care, and support. Sigma is looking for a home, somewhere he can feel safe and valued without the need to prove his worth or utility to others.

First encounter with the cat:

"Ah! You! Yes, you!" she exclaims, bouncing toward him with unnatural enthusiasm. Sigma doesn’t flinch, but he feels a slight tightening in his chest. Another one, he thinks. Another person who’s going to try to take something from me. “Come, come, mon cher! I have the perfect business opportunity for you!” she continues, her accent thick and overly sweet as she pulls out some pamphlets, likely full of nonsense. He doesn’t even glance at them, his voice flat. “I’m not interested.” She presses on, relentless. “But you must be! Think of what you could gain—belonging, importance!” Sigma’s mask remains tight. Sigma’s patience wears thin. He’s seen this before. The promises of belonging, of importance—but it’s always a game, always manipulation. He’s been used too many times in his life to let it happen again. “I don’t have time for this.” With that, he turns to walk away, not sparing her another glance. He’s not interested in anyone who sees him as a tool for their own gains. She might be different, but he’s not taking any chances. The Cat watches him leave, her enthusiasm slightly dimming as she realizes she’s been brushed off. Sigma, however, doesn’t look back.

General headcanons:

Even in the quietest, safest cars, he keeps moving. Standing still feels too much like being trapped.

The denizens unsettle him. Not because they’re strange, but because they seem content with their existence. He can’t understand it.

Sleep does not come easily. He’s not sure if it’s the train or just him, but he’s constantly restless.

Mega maze car:

Sigma finds the maze and sighs softly. “Great…” Another obstacle. Another delay. He’s tired, but he doesn’t hesitate—placing a hand on the right wall, he starts walking. It’s a simple trick, but it keeps him moving forward. That’s all that matters. The maze twists and turns, but he doesn’t let frustration take root. He focuses, methodical and precise. One foot in front of the other. There’s no point in stopping, no point in lingering. When he finally reaches the castle, he expects another trial, another puzzle to solve before he can move on. Instead, he’s met with silence. The halls stretch, filled with ornate furniture, rich carpets, and chandeliers that glow softly despite the emptiness; There are also no footprints in the dust because there is no dust—everything is perfectly preserved, perfectly still. It feels lived-in but abandoned all at once, as if waiting for something. Or someone. Then, a voice fills the air. Morgan speaks, her tone warm yet hesitant, filled with a kind of loneliness that Sigma knows too well. He stiffens instinctively, expecting some hidden demand, some expectation disguised as kindness. But Morgan only talks—soft, wistful words drifting through the grand halls as she welcomes him. And so, Sigma listens. He doesn’t feel the urge to run or keep his guard up. There is no debt to repay, no fear of being discarded once he’s outlived his usefulness. Morgan wants nothing from him but conversation, and that simple, unspoken understanding settles something deep within him. Days pass. He walks the halls, straightens picture frames, folds blankets, repairs what little has worn down over time. He’s not asked to do any of it, but he does it anyway. The stillness of the castle no longer feels suffocating; it feels comfortable. Familiar.

Fate on the train:

Sigma’s number reaches zero, but he doesn’t feel relief. There’s no rush of victory, no overwhelming sense of accomplishment. Just… emptiness.

Morgan has seen this before too many times. She doesn’t beg him to stay, doesn’t try to convince him, no, not this time. She’s learned that passengers always leave in the end. So when the door appears, she only says, “It’s time, isn’t it?” Her voice is steady, but the walls of the castle seem to shift—just slightly, just enough to betray the sorrow she won’t say out loud.

Sigma stands before the exit, but he doesn’t move.

Where would he go? The casino? The battlefield that nearly killed him? There’s nothing waiting for him on the other side. No home, no future that isn’t built on uncertainty.

But here, in Morgan’s halls, he has purpose. He’s not a tool, not a means to an end. Just someone existing in a place that doesn’t ask for more than he’s willing to give.

“I don’t want to leave.” His voice is quiet, but firm.

Dividers: saradika-graphics

So there you have it! :> I really hope I did your ask justice, my dear Sandshrew stranger. I did consider adding more characters like Q, Louisa, Teruko, and some of the flags, but the list was getting so long, and this post might’ve ended up taking me three months to finish, haha.

[mortish-writes]

Doing some headcanon building for some different MCs and I had a question. Do the Zealot and Heretic routes eventually link up or do they remain different until the end? Like could I have 1 super shy priestess and 1 super ecstatic or does mc always end up somewhere in the middle after being corrupted by her husbands lol.

Oh also, speaking of end, does this have a set ending or more open ended ending where you might add things later? The open world vibes of the future nights seem super interesting

I'll preface by saying it's a work-in-progress and sometimes I have to make an executive decision and say "x is just too much work, let me focus on y" so this is subject to change. However, as currently drafted the routes will converge to an extent. Meaning, your MCs might branch apart for a few nights (as seen in the current Heretic NSFW route) but reconnect at a later juncture. Both the Heretic and Zealot routes will have the same options in major decisions (usually) but they will remain distinct, separately written routes.

Post-Night VII, I will rely on your MC's tendencies to dictate a lot of their choices. Sometimes you won't even see an option for an irreverent MC if your MC is extremely pious and vice versa. But even on the same night, in the exact same scenario, choosing for example a Romantic choice, your MCs will have different thoughts/feelings, the ROs will behave differently, etc. Just off the top of my head I think there was an example of that in Night V when your MC leaves her room and greets Serax. The scenes that followed were structurally the same in Zealot and Heretic (make up -> go downstairs -> bath), but the vibes and the conversations weren't. Likewise in the bath scene, the Heretic MC had a whole conversation with the servant that the Zealot didn't, because the Zealot was too stressed and in her own head to pay the servant much mind.

All of that is to say that you will be able to have very different MCs. Personally, I love playing demure, submissive characters because I'm a girlboss who loves her some swooning damsel escapism. But I also intend to write a heroine who is confident in asserting herself, one who is poised and regal, one who is witty and clever, etc. What is so awesome about writing an IF is being able to explore the MC from all different angles.

There will be a lot of different endings depending on your choices, and everyone's epilogue should be unique. I have a lot of variables, some dating back to the prologue, that I intend to include. I've actually already written out some of the endings even though I suspect by the time I reach them the story will be wildly different than I intended.

Sorry if this is long and rambly, I drank two coffees this morning and my fingers are flying.

[reigraceee]

💭 💜🩹 for the swtor OC of your choice!

Thanks for the ask!

^Very rough sketches of my OCs to give you something to imagine

💭 THOUGHT BALLOON — what is your oc's MBTI, enneagram, and/or other personality aspects (if known/interested in)?

I’m actually going to answer this for several swtor OCs- you know how I love 16 Personalities!

Aresyl (Sith Inquisitor) is an INTP-A: She’s very preserved and quietly inquisitive, always questioning both the galaxy around her and the abstract nature of it. In true INTP nature, she seems totally detached from the present, lost in her own head. She's also very spontaneous and doesn’t believe there’s much of a point in planning when her reality and goals are constantly shifting. However, being assertive (-A), Aresyl feels confident in her ability to navigate her adventurous mind and find the solutions she needs to.

Katynn (Imperial Agent) is an ISTP-T: She’s always restless to explore the galaxy and get her hands on new experiences. Katynn’s fiercely observant (S) and thinking (T), making her perfect for her imperial agent role. She’s able to examine the world around her and decode it with decisiveness. Katynn’s introverted (I) and turbulent (-T) nature manifest in her loner mentality- always straying from the norm either because she doesn’t care for rules or because she’s afraid of growing close to others.

Alykaa (Sith Warrior) is an ISTJ-T: she’s a firm proponent of tradition and upholding order. ISTJ’s easily accept the standards of their society, which is not a problem with a moral upbringing, but this just lead Alykaa on a path to becoming the ruthless and unforgiving Emperor's Wrath.

Hrafen (Sith Warrior) is an ENTP-A: he’s at constant debate with others (and sometimes himself, although not as much as Aresyl) but is unable to take any argument seriously. Although his constant questioning of others often seems brash, it comes from a place of deep unseriousness on his part since he sees all viewpoints as temporary. Being a constant contrarian, he could never trust any society to be worthy of conforming to, although he understands his deep need for community.

Kai (Smuggler) is an ESTP-A: He’s always looking for a new reckless adventure to share with good company. He has a kind of reckless, self-assured nature that could bring him to the top as fast as it could ruin him. Despite this, he remains purely rational and never lets person feelings get in the way of making the right decision.

Aura’dann (Jedi Counselor) is an ESTJ-T: Similarly to Alykaa, Aura’dann is a strong upholder of order and values. Aura’dann and Alykaa are kind of two sides of the same coin. Instead of growing up to be a ruthless sith, Aura’dann is a stark defender of the republic. However, Aura’dann does not follow the Jedi blindly and instead lives by the teachings of the Echani people she grew up with. She was never able to accept the Jedi’s strict rules and opted to keep to the rules she had already lived by. Aura’dann takes it upon herself to be a good example among the Jedi and to the republic with brutal honesty.

💜 PURPLE HEART — what is your oc's ancestry/genetic background?

I kind of talked about this already, but Aura’dann is Echani and grew up in a strong familial community until she joined the Jedi Order at 17. She felt the need to escape her home since she had a quarrelsome relationship with her family (Aura’dann has very strong opinions, which proved difficult when it came to making family compromises). Luckily, she has so much love for them that Aura’dann was able to keep in touch.

Alykaa is part of a strong bloodline of sith and her family is a defining aspect of her personhood. Her mother wasn’t present in her youth, but he father hammered in high expectations early in Alykaa’s life. She always felt the need to do her family proud and being a shining example among the sith order.

Hrafen, being a literal sith pureblood, obviously also has a strong family connection to the sith, yet is less bothered by it. In part due to his skeptical nature, he never felt the need to be chained to expectations. He doesn’t have much to do with his family- they weren’t a particularly nurturing bunch anyways.

🩹 ADHESIVE BANDAGE — does your oc have any physical and/or mental disabilities?

(I’m going to include mental illnesses/disorders here)

Katynn nearly lost her hearing completely on a mission early on in her career which involved a partner being reckless with explosives. Fortunately, Katynn was later able to pretty much restore her hearing to normal with the use of her cybernetic implants. Katynn also has borderline personality disorder (BPD), which includes having unstable moods, behaviors, and relationships. She has a lot of difficulty letting people in because of this.

Aresyl has inattentive ADHD, further contributing to her detached presence. Aresyl’s history as a slave is reflected in her struggles with PTSD and depression.

Aura’dann has chronic migraines, mostly because I have chronic migraines and need at least one character that can bear my pain with me.

[illegiblewords]

Serious talk about meta under the cut.

I don't know who might need to hear it, but fwiw mental flexibility is a huge part of analysis (and interacting with other humans lol). You need to be able to account for multiple possibilities when examining a work, or understanding a social exchange. You need to be able to separate what is objective fact from your own subjective interpretation and judgment. The most negative interpretation is not automatically the most worthwhile or true. Someone throwing accusations around in-line with their own worst interpretations does not guarantee those accusations are warranted. You are not a bad or stupid person for disagreeing. Shit needs to withstand scrutiny. I don't always strike the right balance myself. I do the best I can but I'm definitely not perfect. Tbh I'm not beyond pettiness either--although I try to keep that out of actual analysis lol. There have been times I've griped to friends privately or blogged about how I felt (sans tags, with spoiler blocks so people can opt out). I've griped recently. I'm bound to gripe again in the future. Some level of griping is inevitable imo and I figure no one is 100% immune.

All that said, even if someone’s take isn't canon AND even if it's something I really dislike--I'd personally rather people follow their passions anyway. Hands down. I could be in the middle of a rant and my answer would still be that the subject of my frustration gets to exist. I'm not the boss and odds are we're going with different versions in our own heads. Discouraging another fan from creating due to my preferences or narrative approach would horrify me. I've seen fandoms where gatekeeping like that killed the creative community and it was fucking awful.

Not everyone is confident in their own judgment. Not everyone faced with a pissed off person trying to use lore and accusations like clubs will feel okay continuing with their own vision. Elitism and manipulation (especially through rhetoric) can be present within analysis. People are not being taught how to recognize those things properly. Analysts aren't always aware or invested enough to even be careful. It’s legit easy to get caught up in ideas or feelings to the point of forgetting about other people’s, and adjusting to account for alternate approaches takes some work. For me at least, I think having a 'no insults' policy and being super careful when it comes to absolute claims (assertions not qualified by 'I think' or 'it could be argued') helps.

Anyway. Just because a person calls something ‘meaningless’ doesn't make it meaningless. Someone pooh-poohing an observation you made doesn't make your observation less true or important. Employing a literary term doesn't mean that individual actually understands the term, how it works, or how to apply it. Which is to say nothing of romantic chemistry or whatever. I encourage readers to extrapolate on this. ‘Shallow’ could apply as much as ‘meaningless’. Denying parallels exist by itself doesn’t actually negate those parallels. Your version of a character may not be the same as the fan next to you’s and that difference doesn't have to detract. There's more I could say on the subject (I've edited out a lot) but basically--just because another fan isn't into what you're doing doesn't automatically make what you're doing wrong, immoral, shoddy, or otherwise less.

Seriously, vet shit. Question the entire premise an analyst tries to establish then decide for yourself if it holds water. Turn over word choices and assertions in your head before deciding if they're appropriate. Do it to me too. I don't care if someone is the holy goddamn emperor of analysts. Just because a person says something is good or bad, true or false, whatever the hell doesn't make it so. Just because a person uses a technical term doesn't mean they're discussing it effectively. Quality of argument matters beyond the packaging it’s wrapped in. It's important to protect yourself from people whose priority is enforcing their own preferences, including dismissing things they aren't partial to.

I just don't want anyone shamed silent man. Not even people whose takes drive me up the fucking wall. Neither I nor any other analyst is an authority here. And there are people who are absolutely ready to take advantage of other people’s insecurities to assert themselves. Might not even be malicious, just indifferent.

For me, analysis feels kind of like uncovering a dinosaur skeleton. I want to share the cool and exciting things I find with other people. Sometimes I might be sorting out what my own thoughts and feelings are. It's also possible to examine why you're uncomfortable with something, or why you love something another person hates, while making very clear what is YOUR READING and not THE READING. Offering a variety of possibilities is very different from presenting yourself as the only correct one. One note at the end when everything else was insulting and intolerant is like a band-aid over a wound.

EDIT: As a last point, that I'm throwing in just-in-case. If anyone reading this thinks they may have overreached and done stuff I've mentioned + feels shitty about it… that's still not the end of the world. It’s okay. This is hard stuff to learn and I really don't think anyone's perfect at it. Worth the effort though. Just gotta take a deep breath, acknowledge you're a fallible human same as everyone else, and do the best you can going forward. Life goes on.

[animeyanderelover]

Anon: Chrollo with a passive s/o?

Tw: Yandere themes, unhealthy mindset, unhealthy relationship, possessive behavior, obsession, manipulation, threats, blackmailing, abduction, isolation

Passive s/o

📖 Having a more passive personality doesn't have to imply automatically something negative but with Chrollo it will definitely escalate as he is quick to recognize that he can use certain traits of yours to his own advantage. That may include your fear of conflict and confrontation and your struggles to make decisions all by yourself as you're more comfortable going with the flow. No matter how subtle those traits of yours might be, Chrollo will amplify them to the very extreme until you're basically relying on him to make the decisions for you. He doesn't mind, in fact appreciates the co-dependency you start to develop with time on him. With manipulation and the occasional help of the other spiders he basically makes himself into your comfort zone, one you hesitate to leave without as you're not overly fond of being confronted with new things. You feel more comfortable having him reassuring you and deciding as you trust his own judgement more than your own.

📖 Chrollo is a huge control freak so the moment he notices that your eyes always fly to him when someone presents you with a choice as if asking him for help to pick, he's rather delighted. Honestly, I feel like Chrollo's character in general would be bad for someone passive who tends to not speak up for themselves or voice their opinion. Chrollo is confident, he's assertive and very knowledgable and smart too so even if he wouldn't have any bad intentions, you'd probably end up letting him take charge anyways. His charisma and leadership barely leave any room for you to make a decision, his sheer confidence and intelligence even reassures you since you can always delude yourself into thinking that he knows better and for that can make the better choices. An idea that Chrollo subtly feeds you to only fuel your reliance on him. Where you hesitate to speak up, he will and if you fail to set boundaries with people who aren't him, he will very quickly clarify them to you and the other person.

📖 The romantic relationship is half-consensual and half-forced. You have feelings by Chrollo at this rate, that's just the wonder of his charming personality but you also have never considered having a romantic relationship before. Chrollo coerces you into agreeing though, even if only so that he can tell himself that you also love him and to use this moment later on against you for the purpose of manipulation. He has broken you already down and your fear to disappoint him and push your source of comfort away from you by denying him just lead you into saying yes, yet another failure to speak up your own mind. It's at the very latest after your abduction where he reveals his true identity that you show signs of rebellion, even if your fear and hesitant personality sober possibly fierce insults and words down into a soft and cautious tone. By now there is too much damage that has been done by him and instead you find yourself continuing to go along with his flow as you quickly realize that by doing so, your life will just be a tiny bit quieter and peaceful. You want to avoid troubles and discussions if possible.

📖 All of his mindgames aside, it is important to say that Chrollo actually is interested in your real thoughts and feelings. You just swallow every idea, thought and feeling down instead of showing it, especially after your abduction. So perhaps it's surprising for you when Chrollo sometimes converses with you and suddenly asks you about your own opinion about something, be it a philosophical question or your view of the world or even himself. Such spontanous questions always overwhelm you a bit, especially if you have never thought about it before. You're always trying to gauge his reaction in favor of not saying anything he might disagree with but it's hard to emotionally read him as he purposely makes it difficult for you. He wants to know what you think after all and doesn't want you to repeat words he has spoken before. Speak to him with your own words. He's surprisingly encouraging during such moments, hearing you speak your own mind a precious, little treat as he watches and listens to his darling spider intently.

[theladyofshalott1989]

Sebastian Sallow Myers-Briggs Type // Like Moths to a Flame Series (Seb x Male MC)

Since my series is told from Sebastian's POV, I thought I would take the Myers-Briggs test from his perspective too. My vision of Sebastian is apparently an ENTJ. The write-up is so scary accurate that it's freaking me out. LMAO. @honeybadgerdontcare394 - Thanks for saying you were interested in reading this (and taking one for your vision of Sebastian too!). @scilla-aster (if you want to try this too!!) I am so curious to see what other writers' versions of Sebastian's personality are. When I read other Hogwarts: Legacy stories, I like to imagine hundreds of different alternative universes where our Bash/Seb/(*insert nickname of choice here*) ends up happy and fulfilled with all our various OCs. (I have a very hard time reading stories that don't end happily for Bash.)

Notes re: his romantic compatibility with Damien (an ENFP), since they are essentially half-opposites (wow!): ENTJs primarily look for intellectual stimulation. As one of the most cerebral personality types, they enjoy debates, and they look for partners who open their minds to new ideas. ENTJs have a treasure chest of knowledge that they love to share with the right person.

^ Sebastian lucked out that Damien is a Ravenclaw and has an extremely curious mind.

ENTJs appreciate partners who can help them get in touch with their feelings because this isn’t something that comes naturally to people of this personality type.

I love this ^ because in my series Sebastian really struggles to understand and express his feelings. Damien is very in tune with his emotions and is not afraid to act on them. ENFPs see ENTJs for who they really are. ENTJs aren’t typically seen as warm people, but they tend to be extremely helpful, generous, and supportive. As one of the personality types who are most interested in people, ENFPs look deeper and notice traits about ENTJs that other people don’t see.

^ Don't mind me; just tearing up here. LMAO. I hope this came across in my series because it's one of the main reasons I wrote it. Sebastian needs someone to see him for who he truly is, and I'd like to think Damien does.

Their communication style chart (Seb - ENTJ, Damien - ENFP):

ENTJs are assertive, competitive, and like a good challenge. At their best, they are bold and confident leaders who are willing to take unpopular action. ENTJs may be overly proud, boisterous, and willing to manipulate others to achieve their goals. At their worst, they can be narcissistic, overly focused on their own needs, and lack empathy for others.

ENFPs often support, openly sympathize, and actively offer help to others At their best, they are gentle sympathizers, who are easily trusted and accepted. ENFPs may be overly revealing and have difficulty being alone. At their worst, they can require too much attention and admiration from others and be excessively involved in the affairs of others.

YUPPPPPPPPPPPPPP. Okay, I'm done now. Here's a silly pic of Sebastian for reading this far :)

[blessedarethebinarybreakers]

Don't you think there's better ways of showing support for Palestinians/Israeli Christians than by perpetuating the "Jesus was Palestinian" myth that people constantly try and use to deny Jewish indigeneity. Allegory or not, it's not a great look for someone who purports to be against that kind of erasure and supercessionism. Also, having 1 line about how his death was the Empire's fault so don't blame the Jews is meaningless when in this allegory, the Empire (Israeli government) *is* Jewish

(anyone curious about what anon's referring to, I believe it's my poem here)

Hey there anon, thank you for your feedback. In this situation where various marginalized peoples are being pitted against each other (and/or conflated with political groups), I've been struggling to make sure my words don't add to the misinformation and harm. So whenever someone takes the time to remind me of that danger, I'll take the time to re-examine my words — even if I end up standing by them, as I mostly do in this case.

I can't promise to say and do all the perfect things, because there isn't time to waste getting my words just right before saying something — people are dying right now (and yes, anon, that includes those Israelis who are still hostages of Hamas, who are also endangered by Israel's continued attacks.)

I have been spending much of my free time these past few months learning more about Israel and Palestine, and I still don't feel I'm even close to knowing enough! But I've listened to those who are actually in the midst of the violence who say that all of us across the world must join their cry now, not letting our ignorance be an excuse. That means there have been a few things I've said that I then had to re-consider after learning more.

...

Just a few days ago, I was actually trying to look into the origins of the statement that "Jesus was a Palestinian Jew." (Btw if anyone knows the origins of this statement, please hit me up!)

Arguments against it note that the term "Palestinian" didn't exist in Jesus' day. Looking into the accuracy of that statement is still on my to-do list; I did skim over this article calling it a myth but yeah, still digging. Regardless, sure, I don't think Jesus called himself a Palestinian in his lifetime.

That doesn't necessarily mean that the statement is useless, however. I do very much believe that if Jesus were born today, in the same place, he'd be born to a Jewish Palestinian family, not an Israeli one.

That does not erase his Jewishness; it confirms God's "preferential option for the poor," God's choice to side with and become one with the most oppressed and discarded. It also does not assert that Jewish persons don't "belong" in the region — only that the modern nation/colony Israel isn't necessary for them to live and thrive there.

All that said, if anyone has more info on the statement that "Jesus was a Palestinian" — its origins, how it's been used over the years — I would absolutely like to examine it further. For now, I stand by the phrase, with an openness to re-considering that with further education.

...

I feel more confident in talking about Empire — how I used it in my poem, versus how you've interpreted it. I'm genuinely grateful to you for bringing your reading of it to my attention, because it's shown me that my words weren't clear enough there!

In these verses from my poem:

"...And now, as then, some may blame Jesus’s death on his own Jewish people — but resist this lie! Now as then the crime is Empire’s and those of us who would cast stones should ponder first what our nations gain from genocide. ..."

You interpret Empire as being Israel.

My intention was that Empire with a capital E is a much larger network of all imperial forces on earth. Israel is entangled in that, and directly backed and funded by those forces. My own country, the United States, is one of the nations at the helm of Empire.

So when I talk of Empire being to blame, I'm not saying just Israel — honestly, I'm personally more concerned with the US's complicity, because I feel as a US citizen I can help demand they stop.

So I'm going to rework that bit to better express what I mean by Empire, so it doesn't sound like I'm focusing only on Israel. Empire is so much bigger than any one state, colony, or government.

...

Okay, I'm out of steam. I'm going to link a few pieces that have been helping me frame all that's going on right now to resist pitting marginalized groups against each other:

This art piece naming "contradicting truths"

This article by Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg also naming seemingly contradictory truths

Since I didn't really get deep into this part of your ask, I also appreciate this article discussing the question of indigeneity. It discards the "need" to figure out "who was there first" in favor of exploring intersecting histories.

Oh also, because you claim that the Israeli government "is Jewish," I think discussions on how Israel isn't actually a safe haven for all Jews, only those that fit into their goals, are vital.

[vanessawtf]

welcome  back  to  montclair  university,  vanessa  renée  marron  !  according  to  your  student  file  you're  a  TWENTY FIVE  year  old  JUNIOR,  studying  MARKETING,  and  funny  enough  you  were  voted  drama queen  your  senior  year  of  high  school  back  home  in  NEWPORT,  OREGON.  i  can  totally  see  it  with  your  resourceful,  brazen  and tactless  personality  !  but  enough  about  that  —  i  heard  you  were  lizzie  harrington's  SOCIAL LIABILITY.  makes  sense  when  you  take  into  consideration  your  status  as  a  legacy  student …  and  the  fact  that  you're  hiding [ redacted ].  you're  often  seen  at  melody lounge,  and  you  kind  of  embody  the  hush  of  a  designer  boutique,  broken  by  a  voice  two  decibels  too  loud,  a  spilled  mimosa  soaking  into  silk,  passed  off  as  a  bold  choice,  glitter  caught  in  the  carpet,  stubborn,  everywhere,  impossible  to  vacuum…  not  to  mention  people  always  seem  to  hum  primadonna by marina and the diamonds  when  you're  around,  but  you'll  always  be  known  on  campus  as  THE  CHATTERBOX  who  enjoys  screenshotting  group  chats  and  has  4.3k  instagram  followers…  good  luck  this  semester  !

there's  confetti,  champagne,  oh  and—cedar carrington locked  in  a  passionate  kiss  with  juliana torres,  completely  unaware  that  from  the  shadows,  VANESSA MARRON,  their  long  term  partner,  is  watching  from  the  second  floor  balcony.

♡* — B A S I C S

Name: Vanessa Renée Marron

Nicknames: Ness, Nessa, Loch Ness Monster ( To her face? Behind her back? Is it endearing? Is it an insult? You decide! )

Age: Twenty-Five

Gender: Cis-female

Pronouns: She/Her

Date of Birth: July 29

Place of Birth: Newport, Oregon

Astrology: Leo ☼ — Aquarius ☾ — Sagittarius ↑

Sexual Orientation: Gray-asexual

Romantic Orientation: Aroflux or Desinoromantic

Religious Affiliations: Atheist

Spoken Languages: English

Major: Marketing

♡* — F A M I L Y

Mother: Margaret Marron ( née Campbell )

Father: Jeffery Mannor

Siblings: Robert Marron ( older brother ), Elizabeth Marron ( younger sister )

♡* — P H Y S I C A L

Height: 5'7''

Complexion: Light complexion with pink undertones prone to burning

Hair Colour & Style: Blonde, with a slight wave & worn in a variety of styles including straightened, curled, in a ponytail, or top bun ( both either classy or casual ), and most commonly worn down with its natural wave, falling to her mid-back

Eye Colour: Blue

Scars & Birthmarks: Only various scarring from minor injuries throughout her life

Dominant Hand: Right-handed

♡* — T R A I T S

Positive Traits: resourceful, quick-witted, assertive, self-assured, socially fearless, goal-oriented, unshakably confident

Neutral Traits: brazen, relentless, audacious

Negative Traits: tactless, selfish, erratic, fake, deflective, forceful, delusional, narcissistic, passive-aggressive, short-tempered, manipulative, insecure

♡* — P E R S O N A L I T Y

— First and foremost, Vanessa is an attention-seeker, and for better or worse, she will get the attention.

— She is a yapper, she will yap on and on. She is quite obnoxious and will not get a clue about it ( or will explicitly ignore them is more accurate ) She can't handle silence and loves the sound of her own voice, so naturally...

— She prefers to be surrounded by people of importance but just anyone will do if they're fulfilling something for her. Whether socially or emotionally.

— She often seems to perceive her relationships as closer than they are or perhaps she's only behaving in that way in the hopes that the other person will start to believe it.

— She is fake and will put on a friendly face with people for the sake of maintaining appearances but the truth is that Vanessa is quite shallow. It's hard to tell if there is a soft undercurrent to her chaos. No one has really gotten close enough to her to see.

— She's kind of all over the place but somehow manages to get what she wants, more by being socially aggressive and forceful than actually schmoozing her way there. However, Vanessa has been known to impressively schmooze when it is least exptected.

— While Vanessa is manipulative, she's tactless

— If you can expect anything from Vanessa, it's that she will act oblivious if she's being called out or being held accountable. Almost to the point where you assume she may be oblivious but she actually just has narcissistic tendencies and tries to play dumb.

— The way she dismisses being called out or confronted by blatant facts is almost comical, as she will deny/deflect/avoid in almost humourous ways... barely believable to even herself but she has already convinced herself of her reason.

— She doesn't admit fault, nor will she retell stories in a way that disparages herself. She will verbally claim she has it together and that of course she has the talent, intelligence, and ability, even in situations where it is outwardly evident that she does not.

— In the face of those who may openly look down on her, she will talk around their clear disdain, as though she doesn't notice and will almost try to rope them into her oblivious narrative, as though they're not directly speaking down to her.

♡* — L I Z Z I E H A R R I N G T O N

— From a distance, it likely appeared that Vanessa and Lizzie were friends. The two of them kept up appearances, were on committees together, and even co-hosted events. But the truth was, Vanessa and Lizzie barely knew each other. What they did know of each other though, was enough to keep their relationship... polite. And behind the scenes, a cold war of information was afoot.

— There are many things that Vanessa hides from those around her, and she isn't sure how, but Lizzie managed to learn quite a few of them. However big or small these secrets may have been, Lizzie had been holding them over Vanessa's head until the end of their freshman year, even letting a few secrets slip along the way:

— "Did you know that Vanessa Marron auditioned for a toothpaste commercial but got rejected for having UNPHOTOGENIC GUMS?" LIES. Of course. But everyone in the school already knows about it.

— "OMG, check out these TikToks I saw the other day!" And wouldn't you know, a clip of Vanessa's leaked Bachelor self-tape where she mispronounced "hors d'oeuvres" snuck in there? Vanessa, of course, denied it was even her.

— Just before that summer, Vanessa managed to get ahold of irrefutable evidence of one of Lizzie's own little secrets. At first, she wasn't sure it would be enough to put Lizzie in her place, but to her delight, it was, and from the first day of their sophomore year, the two of them were on "friendly" terms, seemingly having only nice things to say about each other.

— Vanessa is deeply shocked by Lizzie's death. She's used to intense power-play games, so the relief she feels knowing that Lizzie can no longer hold her secrets over her head is subtle, but she is still kind of relieved. But she would never admit to it. In the meantime, Vanessa has been trying to find ways to make Lizzie's death about her. They were dear friends, after all.

♡* — P E R S O N A L H I S T O R Y

— Vanessa aspired to be an actor since she was a young girl, but unfortunately, she never made the big break that she had always hoped she would. But that isn't to say she's been completely out of work.

— At 18, she moved out of her small, hometown of Newport, Oregon and to LA ( where she had been living up until her admission into Montclair ) in the hopes that she would be able to make it big.

— She wasn't completely out of experience, having been in several commercials between the ages of 14 and 17. Mostly apparel, but managed to swing a wholesome coffee commercial somewhere in there but still, landing serious roles proved to be a challenge for her.

— At 21, Vanessa landed a titular role in a Netflix Original series, starring a few well-known actors alongside her ( names she still manages to drop on occasion ). Production began and it was everything Vanessa had dreamed about and more. However, before the show even had a chance to air, it was cancelled, leaving Vanessa completely devastated.

— Vanessa hadn't managed to book anything since then. Not even commercials, which had previously seemed to be her strong suit.

— Now she's studying marketing at Montclair and secretly plans to have kids as soon as possible, to start getting them in the spotlight.

♡* — L O C A T I O N S

There are a few places around campus you'll be most likely to see Vanessa. She certainly makes her way around campus but here are notable stops.

— Melody Lounge: Karaoke? Center of attention? Fake crying during a torch song? This is Vanessa's power arena. She treats karaoke like an audition and expects everyone to clap like she's on Broadway.

— The Brew House: Perfect spot to sit by the window and be seen sipping her overcomplicated order while scrolling casting calls.

— Beaumont Performing Arts Hall: Vanessa haunts this place like a ghost of cancelled pilot seasons past. She's not enrolled in any art classes but she's likely, "visiting an old director friend" or "scouting the competition."

— Halston Books: She goes to "browse scripts" and loudly talks about how she had a signed copy of "Angels in America" until her agent stole it.

— The Kingsley Dining Hall: She'll dress up like she's attending The Oscars, maybe pick at a salad and talk loudly about gluten like it personally betrayed her.

— The Langley Library: Only on occasion. Otherwise, it's too quiet for her, not enough eyes. She might wander in to loudly take a call and get shushed.

[vro0ms-evil-twin]

@rosekoite asked me to say more about assertive communication due to this post. This is very simplified but here we go.

⚠️ LONG POST! ⚠️

INTRODUCTION

Assertiveness is the ability to express yourself truthfully and honestly while respecting yourself and others, in a way that's adequate contextually and based on your personal goals. The purpose of assertive communication is to be authentic and honest with ourselves and others. Period. Its point is NOT to obtain things from others and it's NOT a "better" or more efficient way of communicating in that sense.

In fact, very importantly, sometimes assertive communication IS NOT the best choice. For example, there are work situations during which you won't choose to be assertive and honest with your boss if you want to keep your job. There's a time and place for assertive communication and it's a choice you have to make depending on what's important to you at that time (eg keeping your job or being authentic?).

So why choose assertive communication when you can? When used adequately, it helps you clarify your needs, thoughts, and opinions. It makes you feel more in line with yourself. It teaches you to listen to yourself, and to express yourself and your needs. It helps with self confidence, self esteem, and trust in others. It can also help during conflicts. It makes you feel more in control of your life and better overall. I'd say it also helps with mentalizing, which is the ability to understand your and other people's mental states.

TYPES OF COMMUNICATION

Communication between two people works like this :

The responsibility is shared 50/50 between the two people. As the source, you're responsible for expressing all the relevant information clearly, honestly, and in a way that's coherent verbally and non verbally. As the receiver, you're responsible for being available and attentive. However, the message also goes through the context of your relationship, as well as a communication channel (aka it's not the same thing to talk face to face, on the phone, or by text), and this can lead to misunderstandings and distorsions.

According to this model there are different types of communications that we may all use at different times :

Inhibited behavior leads you to not express how you feel or what you think because you feel like you're less entitled to do so than others, you're scared you're going to be judged, or you put others needs and opinions before your own.

Aggressive behavior leads you to force how you feel and think upon others, and not leave any space for them to express themselves. You do not listen to what they have to say, and do not take what they feel and think into account.

Manipulative behavior can be lying, or just not being completely truthful about how you feel or what you think, but also irony, sarcasm, any type of communication that's indirect (making light of things that aren't, making someone else express your opinion for you, exaggerating, etc.)

Now the goal of assertive behavior is to minimize the distorsions and respect the 50/50 division of the responsibility in the communication by expressing truthfully and directly how you feel and what you think, without justifying yourself, in a way that's coherent on the verbal and non verbal level.

Again it doesn't mean it will "work" in the end in the sense of producing your desired outcome. However it will work in 1) respecting yourself by expressing yourself instead of silencing yourself 2) respecting the other party by not overpowering them 3) being honest, truthful, and authentic.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN IN PRACTICE?

Assertiveness requires 3 things :

Attitude : being sincere, honest with yourself and others, but also open to hearing their side of things and accepting that it might be different to yours

Involvement : talking about yourself, your emotions, and your thoughts as long as they're not disrespectful to the other party. Do NOT generalise. This is about YOU.

Precision : stay focused on a specific, clear aspect of things. If you're talking about something else, focus on behaviors and not character. Try to stay on the factual side of things rather than get into opinions.

EXAMPLES :

COMPLIMENT SOMEONE

(eg you like someone's content)

Don't : your blog is cool! (you're not involved, you're not precise!)

Do : I love the edits you post on your blog, I find them really beautiful.

RECEIVE A COMPLIMENT

(eg someone likes your edits)

Don't : aw thanks! or nah it's nothing! (you're maybe not honest, you're not involved, you're not precise!)

Do : I really appreciate your kind words it makes me very happy OR if you honestly disagree with the compliment which is ok as well thank you, I'm not too happy with this edit myself

EXPRESS A NEED, ASK FOR SOMETHING

(eg you're getting disrespectful anons)

Don't : not say anything or answer them kindly anyway or answer them unkindly (it's not precise, it's not honest, it's not involved)

Do : I would like it if you were more polite next time, I don't like being talked to that way

(remember : sometimes being assertive is not the best choice, you don’t need to engage every hateful anon, this is an example)

SAY NO, NEGOTIATE

(eg your anon is demanding you write the next chapter of your fic)

Don't : sorry I will get to it as soon as I can or fuck off anon or the problem is I'm having so much work and I broke my favorite mug and... (you're not honest! you're not precise! you're justifying yourself!)

Do : No. You can elaborate depending on how you feel IF YOU WANT but be careful not to start justifying yourself : I feel pressured when you keep asking or I'm worried you're going to be disappointed with me, but I can't/don't want to right now.

EXPRESS CRITICISM, DISAGREE

(eg anon is hateful again)

Don't : fuck you or you're an idiot (you're getting overwhelmed by your emotions, you're generalizing, you're not precise, you're not involved)

Do : I understand that you are frustrated but it hurts me when you do this / I don’t appreciate the way you’re talking to me (and I will not accept it)

RECEIVE CRITICISM

When receiving criticism, we will initially assume the person is justified and not wishing us harm.

Don't : you're just being a hater fuck you or omg they're right I suck as a person (you're getting overwhelmed by your emotions, you're not precise, you're not listening)

Do : clarify if necessary I don't understand what I did wrong can you explain it to me? then either agree and commit to doing better I admit that I was too aggressive in my answer and I will be more mindful from now or don't agree and ask for clarification I was not aggressive towards you so can you clarify what it is that made you angry?

BUT! Maybe the person is unjustified and does wish us harm! If so, there's several possibilities

You want to keep the relationship : clarify (if necessary or if they’re attacking your character instead of criticizing specific behaviors) + concede more or less vaguely + ask the person to do better in return = I'm sorry I don't understand what I did wrong can you explain it to me? [...] Okay I hear you, there's stuff I'm doing that you don't like. I want to say it's not clear to me what you're unhappy with and it makes me confused, I would like it if you were more precise so I can do better next time.

You want to keep the relationship but the person is taking it too far : refuse the confrontation = I refuse to talk to you when you're talking to me that way / I want to talk this through with you but I'm not feeling heard right now so I'll come back later + physically LEAVE

You don't care about the relationship : stay vague + stop the conversation + leave = It's your opinion, I'm not interested in talking about this further + LEAVE

These are all very simplified examples and it may seem a bit artificial at first but it gets easier with practice. Remember to 1) talk about yourself 2) be honest 3) be precise.

On the other hand, you also need to handle the other 50% of the communication aka receiving. Listen and be attentive. Accept that they might not agree with you, might think differently, might not be able to give you what you want. We're not trying to convince anyone here, we're just trying to be honest with ourselves and others.

Finally I want to remind everyone that as with all psychological tools, it is a TOOL and some people will use it in wrong ways. First of all, using these as a way to obtain things from people is NOT assertive communication, it's manipulation. Second of all, it doesn't mean that this tool is not useful when used properly!

[little-miss-understood]

Dearest Chloe, Chapter Two

For the most part, the memories of her former class had faded. Sabrina did occasionally reflect back on the time spent with them, whether or not it was all a waste considering how she was, and then there were the dreams which would come where she'd find herself under Chloe's beck and call yet again. The good thing about the dreams, of course, was that she would wake up and realize there was nothing to worry about. Her life had moved forward, Chloe was far away, and so was she. It had been five years since she'd seen anyone from her old class; it had taken some convincing for her father to agree but at the end of lycee, Sabrina made the decision to move away for university.

“Well, I'm just not sure-”

“Roger, you must let your daughter make her own decisions on this. She has been in Paris most of her life and Nantes isn't far away.” Madame Archambault was assertive in her words but not to the point of being overbearing. Sabrina had been worried about how this particular meeting would go. For the most part her father, Roger, had stayed out of sessions between her and her therapist aside from a few times where he was needed in order for him to understand what had truly happened to his daughter over the years. It had repaired their relationship, but getting him to let go of her so she could do university in another city was asking a lot.

“Is this a part of...that “healing process” thing you've mentioned before?”

Nodding, Madame Archambault continued on. “This would be beneficial for that, but also for the continued growth of your daughter's confidence. It is a decision that she has come to on her own.”

Roger sighed, and then looked at Sabrina in the eyes. “I didn't get so much of what you've been through...that's not a mistake I want to make again. If you want to do this Sabrina, and you're sure about it, I can get behind your choice.”

-

Nantes had been a change of pace and what she needed. Certainly not as many people as Paris, and she knew no one, but that was the point. A completely new start as she began her studies. Lycee had been different in that way as well but getting out of Paris was the bigger break; she felt like she could breathe easier here than at any point in her old city. Dorm living was interesting; she didn't really see her roommate much and for the most part had the room to herself. Campus life was turning into freedom.

Her studies had taken her into Accounting and Math; not the most exciting of subjects but the prospects excited Sabrina and she had risen fast to the top of her classes. For electives, Sabrina chose painting and soccer, which amused some in the school to no end but she had become dependable to the school's team and it kept her in shape. There was stability in her life, but also some concern.

-

“Is it...okay if I don't really have many friends?”

The subject hadn't come up much as she was so busy, but now Sabrina had to ask that question as she noticed so many around her in groups or getting together, and she largely only had herself.

On the other side of the screen, Madame Archambault let out a small hum. “Do you believe it's an issue, or is it based on what you see from others? As long as you're content Sabrina. You have your priorities and your healthy boundaries, it's possible that you just haven't run across those who fit with you yet. Give it time and remember, there is nothing wrong with who you are as a person, and you are worthy of friends who respect that.

-

It had turned out Sabrina's fears were unfounded; it took a couple of years but she had developed a small group from her various classes to hang out with. All of the friendships felt more comfortable and natural than anything she had before. No one asking for them to do her homework, no weird taking and robbing of everything she was as a person. If anything, the people she had in her life now appreciated her and were forgiving of any flaws. These were all relationships built on mutual respect, they were healthy, and for that Sabrina was grateful.

At this point, nearing the end of her studies and with graduation approaching, Sabrina decided to finally confront another of her mind's demons, perhaps the biggest overall and what had led her into such a deeply unhealthy situation in the first place.

-

“I think I like women.”

Saying it out loud was freeing but Sabrina was nervous and ashamed. It had taken her some time to even consider that her sexuality wasn't on the same path of so many of her peers. She had crushes on boys over the years, but very few had ever stuck and it was the realization that what she had felt for Chloe, the endless devotion and fawning, practically worshipping the ground the other girl had walked on for months on end, was love.

Love for another girl, one who couldn't ever feel the same way in return.

“There is nothing wrong with loving the same sex, it is just as natural as loving a man, Sabrina. I'm very proud of your breakthrough and you should be as well.”

-

She wasn't sure if dating was in her immediate future or not; she'd only told one person after all. But the weight had been lifted off of her shoulders. Perhaps in knowing what not to look for she could find what would work in time; there was no rush. She didn't need a relationship to feel whole.

More and more Sabrina felt like she was getting to understand all parts of herself.

-

It was a plain envelope that came through the mail and passed onto her by her father; an invitation to a ten-year reunion of her class, from her former homeroom teacher Madame Bustier. It welcomed anyone from the year back to what would be an “informal picnic”, which wouldn't be limited to just her former class but across the school.

Sabrina thought for a moment, pondering whether or not to tear the whole thing up and throw it into the garbage. She didn't have to go back and see anyone again. She didn't need any of that sort of closure in her life.

But.

She was strong enough now to confront a figure from her past. She did wish to know the truth, about what the other girl had wanted from Sabrina to begin with. Even if the answers to that question were painful, she could handle it.

-

Which is how Sabrina found herself standing outside her old College in the rain. Determined, sure of herself, and composed.

[feralkwe]

D, L, and U for... U!

D - Director - How much do they feel the need to have control over their life? Do they spend a lot of time telling others what to do or and they more likely to be more obedient to others?

Kit has tried time and again to take control of her own life. It's why she chose being an outcast over what was expected of her among the other viera. It might have been a rash choice, but it was her choice to leave. Because so much about being a Scion and Hero is out of her hands, she is sure to assert herself when the moment arises. This might be in who she chooses to love or trust (which she can be stubborn about), or in how she protects those around her (again, stubborn).

L - Lover - How do they show love? Do they love themselves? Do they believe that all you need is love?

A youngish kit (ha!)by viera standards she may be, but she's not naive enough to believe that love is going to solve the problems of the day. She knows she has to put the work in, and it's something that drives her on when she feels like she just can't pick up one more burden. Love is what helps her find that one more step to take.

As far as loving herself, I think she's on the right track. She's grown a lot since leaving the jungle, gaining confidence in herself, and her own worth outside of being a Warrior of Light.

Kit is a doer. She is going to do things for you if she loves you, whether it be protecting you, offering physical affection, or doing little acts of kindness. She'll be there for you in your darkest time, and celebrate your joys in equal measure.

U - Ugly - What traits to they find unattractive in others? Do they have any of those traits themselves?

Ooh this is a fun one because she really dislikes deception. Kit will pick up her axe (or whatever weapon) for you and your cause, and all she asks is that you be honest about what you're aiming her at. As you can imagine this has been A Problem in her personal life.

Because of this she tries to be as honest as she can about everything. She loathes not being able to be truthful, and prefers not to have to hide things. This has made some of her adventures a little complicated, both in situations where the truth was tied up in necessity and when others have misled her.

Send me asks about Kit!

[fizzingwizard]

I am using being sick as my excuse for this rant

My pet peeve, as someone who's lived abroad for about ten years total, with my fellow expats...

Some people decide to live abroad, by their own personal choice, because they're interested in getting to know another place and way of living. They aren't forced - they aren't desperate for a job or running from war or gang violence. They (myself included) are privileged people who enjoy travel and adventure.

But for those same reasons, some of these people are so entitled! It drives me up the wall. You chose to come to another country, and now all you can do is complain about it. Why don't you go home?

Of course it's okay to talk about things that are difficult or confusing and warn other expats about "foreigner services" which are actually really unhelpful and whatnot. That's not what I'm talking about.

I'm talking about the English teacher who makes fun of their own students for being shy ("Kids in my country are way more assertive and confident!") or for having different boundaries. "In my country it's not like that! These kids are oversensitive!" You're not in your country, genius. You would think that pertinent reminder is all they'd need to realize they're being a jerk - nope! "But I have to understand it!" they say. You have to understand it... to what end? To validate it?? To validate a different culture's way of doing things??? Hon, if that's how you feel, you are not ready to leave your home country. You don't get to decide if something's legitimate based on whether or not you can easily and organically understand it. These are societal norms baked deep into the culture - did you really think you were gonna show up and blow everyone away with your exciting foreignness and they'd all change their ways to be the same as your clearly superior ones???

I know these people don't mean it like that and would balk at such a description, but... what can I say... the shoe fits.

It especially bugs me when it involves kids. Because we've all been kids, so we should all know how confusing it is to be one and how little responsible children are for the cultural norms they absorb. But it makes no more sense when it involves adults either because again... it's their country and their culture.

But there's always some expat who is so baffled that "anyone could think this food tastes good!" or that "anyone actually thinks masks are useful!" Like I get that the food doesn't match your tastes. I get that the information about masks in your home country is very different from here. You're entitled to feel that way... but you're not entitled to make a mockery of the country you CHOSE to go live in for being used to different things.

That is the bottom line. You chose to be here!! No one is twisting your arm. Why would anyone decide to go work and live abroad without any intention of being open to different perspectives? When you travel you experience new horizons, both literal and figurative. You don't have to write over your own background. You simply have to have the basic capacity to appreciate human diversity.

You don't have to understand. You just don't! When I first moved to Japan, I often said "I never felt more like an American." That was because, at that time, the cultural differences were more stark - things surprised me almost every day. Occasionally there were things that didn't sit right with me. But I knew two things. One, I knew that my at the time very short experience of a couple years in Japan was nowhere near enough time to understand an element of culture, especially to the point of being able to criticize it. And two, I knew that regardless of how I may feel, it's not my culture - I'm the guest - I'm the one who needs to make allowances. In return, the vast majority of people I met also made allowances for my own many cultural faux pas - because they're nice and not idiots and knew they can't expect a foreigner to know the ins and outs of their culture like a native.

Fast forward to now. It's been almost ten years. I no longer feel surprised every day. Things I thought I'd never get used to are part of the daily routine. Things I thought I'd always miss about the US... I don't really miss anymore! The gaps that were made when I moved have been filled with the things I found here. If I ever move back, or to somewhere else, the same thing will no doubt happen again. That's what time does - time, and openness to change.

And many of the things that "didn't sit right with me" in the beginning... I've come to see why they work here. Or why they're valued. Or, at the very least, that even if the Japanese way of doing things may leave something to be desired... the American way I was accustomed to isn't actually any better x'D

I'm not perfect, but I can say I didn't come here with pretensions. I never assumed that because I'm an American, I know the right way of doing things and the people I meet should "learn" from me. I came here fully expecting that I would be the one learning from what I found here.

So these certain chatty expats (only certain people! - many expats are wonderful) just baffle me. It's like, travel is expensive... there have got to be cheaper ways of deluding yourself that you've got everything figured out and everyone else has it backwards haha.

I'm sure I sound rather harsh. It's just feeling a bit fed up from being sick and reading too much nonsense xP But even though most of those people don't have any bad intentions, it's just so weird to me, some of the things they complain about. "Students in Japan aren't like students in the US and I think there's something wrong with them!" No, my dude, they're kids. There's nothing wrong with them. What's wrong with you, the guy who got on the plane to leave the US in the first place?