#its tactician so i don't see this being easy for me | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

rontra · 7 months ago

Note

i know yr abt the girlfailure teachers rn but do u perchance have any more thots on that rhea and edelgard comic from a bit ago where Edie said she needed a healer and woke up rhea??

are you ready for a long ass post? because this is a VERY! LONG! POST!

tl;dr yes i have a fair amount of thots, and theyre all serial-numbers-filed-off chop-and-screw-it final fantasy fourteen thots. i will recap that first, and then the AU itself (final warning for Long Post)

enjoy (or avert thine eyes. it's up to you)

oh, yeah! so that au (tagged "SETR" because they can't resist an unreadable acronym tag*) began with mostly just riffing on the Scholar job quests from final fantasy 14 before veering off in order to separate from "being in ff14" (<- i simply don't feel like keeping up with all that) (<- he's just now getting to stormblood). so it's pretty much a crossover where one half of the cross had its serial numbers filed off HAHA

so obviously people who are familiar with ff14 SCH lore have a head start on this one, but let's see…from the top, let's TL;DR the stuff from the game proper:

in ff14, Scholar is a type of healer you can play. lorewise, the original scholars belonged to an ancient civilization that fell centuries before the game begins, so their art is completely extinct and lost. but back in the day, their like, marine city-state nation was at Big Magic War with a couple others (bigger nations with stronger/more plentiful mages). their smaller nation's sorcerers, too precious and few in number to risk putting on the front lines, took up dual duty to serve as both healers and tacticians/commanders. to that end, they learned to form pacts with faeries; relying on these familiars to act as their co-healers, the casters were able to give more of their focus to Studying The Art Of War (and were given the new title of Scholar for their big brain tactical caster schemes)

however, this nation and their brilliant military tacticians were wiped out by calamities (the Big Mage War they were involved in ended in huge colossal devastating floods and stuff) and their arts lay forgotten……until centuries later as [PLAYER CHARACTER] gets involved…. because of course you do <3 that's not really important though

what IS important is that at the tail end of this civilization's existence, they also had to juggle a Fucked Up Arcane Plague that one of their enemies strategically infected them with. the plague ("green death", or simply the "sickness from the sea") transformed the people into monsters and more or less demolished the standing army. the mutant plague was contained by quarantining the infected behind magical wards, but attempts to find an actual cure were unsuccessful. tormented by their prolonged isolation and the outside world's rejection of them, the plague's victims gradually became consumed with resentment, eventually depriving them of all reason. after the calamitous floods, the sealed temple--protected by its warding spells--has remained intact, but lays submerged. its transformed population has been trapped inside, alive, for centuries. yikes!

(gameplay wise, what this means is basically you have a fairy pet from the bygone era who automatically casts a basic healing spell called Embrace whenever you or anyone in your party is missing HP (<- in easy content she can sometimes do your job by herself which is very funny) and also, there's a dungeon full of monsters you feel kinda bad about killing)

the main important materials here for us are the "ancient civilization" aspect, the familiar/caster bond, and the simultaneous war/plague problem . <- list of ingredients to add some 3H sauce on

(

*here's the connecting tissue that got us from A (ffxiv) to B (fe3h)

my funny NPC retainer in the game is an au'ra woman named au'rhea (here is a pic of her). she does my banking and sells wares for me. beautiful dragon woman

while dicking around with glamourer i accidentally disguised my character as au'rhea. it was rly funny to see her running around doing stuff for once (because retainer NPCs normally Just Stand There)

i (scholar main) started glamouring my fairy to look like au'rhea so i could drag her with me on adventures (she does not get paid for this extra work)

scholar fairies can't be glamoured in this way so i had to use the ingame petglamour function to change mine into a carbuncle first. i chose topaz carbuncle because yellow is cool

somehow in the intersection between everything that's going on with my game at this point, the log window begins referring to this entity as "Topaz Au'rhea"

the groupchat starts making jokes about topaz au'rhea and scholar edelgard (apropos basically nothing). because it would be funny for rhea to run around getting super busy and stressed about keeping edie's health up while edie is aggroing every enemy on the map or whatever. you get it

Scholar Edelgard + Topaz Rhea. "SETR". incomprehensible? absolutely

)

----

so with all of that context out of the way,

this story is not set in the normal fodlan setting, so it's unclear what everyone's up to / what the current societal climate (and international relationships) of each country is (<- this would probably be ironed out if the AU was more fleshed out than it is)

adrestia and hresvelg's shared history is also a bit different, namely due to incredibly heavy losses suffered during the war of heroes. after barely surviving the war with a devastating pyrrhic victory, the newborn adrestian empire was probably uh not powerful enough to rise up and control all of fódlan lmao

without the support of either seiros OR any big Ws to pick them back up, they're probably still a smaller country (and . maybe not really an "empire" since…idk if they have the means to take and control several territories unless they 1) made a Huge Recovery since then and 2) nobody else on the continent minded that sudden expansion enough to corral them back into their pen HSBHFDF)

^im spitballing here, obviously this would also get ironed out more thoughtfully if i did more work. but that's kind of the vibe it has atm. like idk how big they would be without any strong Ws, without seiros, and without the church

it would also be an AU where there is no empire-church war to fuss around with (due to the absence of. well. the church of seiros--at least in its canon form) and rhea is not a figure in anyone's lives at all, so edie's list of priorities is much different

however because she is still an edelgard and it's important to her swag, her predicted life span is incredibly short due to an Evil Blood Curse(TM) woven in her childhood by the ancient enemies of her family (the nefarious slitherers…)

her condition is unheard of and utterly arcane to adrestia's mages and healers, and attempts to reverse its effects have been futile

after finishing up whatever other shit she had going on in this AU (<-???) (again, would be fleshed out if i had more than 1 post in the SETR tag lol), with no big wars or anything on her docket, she's already free to pursue leads on how to remedy her situation and possibly brighten her prognosis

in a handful of surviving archives private to the hresvelg family, wilhelm I wrote about the old pre-"adrestia" hresvelg territory, the war of heroes, and the allies that shored up the first army's faltering strength

he also made notes about their enemy's tactics, which included sending Curséd Plagues Most Foul, a tactic that all but demolished the pre-adrestian forces

it's not much but it's the best lead anyone's got at this point

wilhelm occasionally referenced his contemporaries' progress in combating these arcane plagues

this and the war combined take up more than 100% of their resources. they are working at a noticeable deficit, war is going rapidly downhill, and wilhelm's notes become more fragmented as the situation becomes increasingly unsustainable and dire

around this time, he also writes about mages forming pacts with "[word untranslatable to modern fódlan languages]" (but edie uses context clues to figure out it's some kind of magic familiar or something) to aid them, primarily in healing

while much of his text is either obliquely phrased or just straight up faded by time, he does pass down a swaggy amulet to his descendants, which is now in edie's possession (the "crest of seiros", if you can believe it)

edie starts investigating, referencing the texts for Important Places To Search For More Clues. starting with a place wilhelm wrote about very often: the last standing stronghold of the first hresvelg army and their allies

the red canyon.

the ruins there are thousands of years old and entirely forgotten by time. but one stubborn emperor (or whatever her title would be) is determined to search every inch of Old Fódlan for Curse Clues

deep in the lost ruins of zanado is a warded sanctum, still protected by an ancient spell. according to wilhelm the first, this was the very last and most hidden warded zone in the red canyon, erected in absolute secrecy just before their forces left the canyon for the final battle at the tailtean plains

the warded zone was left behind to protect the victims of the plague and keep the curse quarantined while the few remaining mages continued working on a remedy

despite the ward still being active, it has grown quite weak and allows edelgard to pass through (likely due to her blood connection to big wilhelm)

exploring deep into the warded zone, she finds it pristinely safe but utterly untouched for god knows how long. eerily quiet, preserved in time but abandoned by it…

at the heart of the warding spell is its caster, who edelgard initially mistakes for a human mage but quickly realized is the "familiar" wilhelm wrote about. she is Not in fact a funny heehoo imp of some kind, but in fact, a tall as fuck , Whole Ass Woman

(the untranslatable word in wilhelm's writing on the topic was obviously nabatean, a proper noun, the long-forgotten name of a people who once lived alongside humanity but were wiped out)

(the nabateans, few in number but possessing astonishing magicks, invited the battered army to take shelter in what remained of the nabateans' home in zanado. wanting to help beat the agarthans back, they offered to join their own power with humans in "pacts"--special contracts between a human mage and a nabatean caster that was beneficial for both partners and allowed them to work in great synergy)

(the pact magic, innovated by the nabateans, greatly enhances the human mage's capabilities, and imparts a certain degree of mutual mind-to-mind awareness of their partner, which the two can use to strategically coordinate their movements. although very few were left alive at this stage of the war, the nabateans were extremely powerful and could flex into any role on the battlefield--but they were also greatly prized in the sick bays and quarantine zones for their potent healing magic)

(the tactical advantage of pairing a war mage and a nabatean caster is credited by wilhelm as the key to many victories that would otherwise have been crushing defeats. also, the remaining nabateans had a vested interest in allying up to beat the agarthans down, as this was their ancient enemy who recently laid waste to the red canyon and decimated most of their population--and was about to conquer humanity as dessert)

wilhelm, the leader of the hresvelg army, formed a pact with the leader of the nabateans . the two of them combined were a force to be reckoned with (excelling in both tactics and raw force, but also defensive maneuvers), but due to how thinly stretched their manpower and resources were, the two commanders were forced to part ways at the very end. one commander was to depart with their army and finish the war, and the other was entrusted with staying back to defend zanado and keep their most vulnerable people safe

for thousands of years, rhea has been casting the same spell, maintaining the final barrier around the sanctum. the plan was for wilhelm and his (hopefully victorious) army to return here, but that uh, did not happen, due to him and his forces being annihilated in the massive effort it took to bring the war to an end

and it did end. only barely. wilhelm's descendants and whoever was left of their supporters founded adrestia proper and continued the hresvelg line into the future, but big wilhelm was absolutely dead and never came back and neither did anyone else sorry

anyway.

edelgard knows that this woman is one of the healers who were working directly on the Curse Problems back in ancient times, and is hoping she will know a solution to the "wretched curse is killing me" problem

the crest of seiros edie carries breaks the centuries-long casting trance and wakes rhea up

the first words out of her mouth are, in essence, WILHELM THANK FUCK YOU'RE BACK, DID WE DO IT? DID WE WIN?

(edelgard voice) erm about that

she basically has to explain to rhea that the last thing she remembers before beginning her Long Watch was, in fact, thousands of years ago, and that wilhelm and everybody else she knew is dead (on top of all the nabateans and allies rhea already knew were dead ofc). the world did manage to survive the war thanks to their efforts, but that's like, the one positive note in all this, lol

rhea understandably distraught and more than a little bit overwhelmed

also quite at a loss for what to do, being a magic guy from an era that in its entirety doesn't exist anymore (and hasn't existed for a very long time)

for all she or edie knows, she might be the very last of her kind (since all records are lost, wilhelm's notes obviously stop kind of abruptly, and no one's heard anything in the millennia since then)

obviously the amount of time that has passed means the people she was holding the ward for are also long gone. she's pretty devastated about that too as they're going through the sanctum and quarantined zone

edelgard trying to tactfully rummage around for clues for her own problem while the big lady spirals

i straight up feel like one of those plants that evolved for a type of bee that doesn't exist anymore

however rhea sadly must return the favor when edelgard is like. so you guys had this curse problem. and you were a very prominent commander/healer at the time. it so happens that i have curse problem. what is the solution to curse problem. i need it badly

and rhea is forced to be like . well we very much did not solve curse problem in my time. sorry. i don't know it. i don't have the solution. we didn't find it in time before our whole shit collapsed

so it's really bad news all around

but because edelgard is wilhelm's blood descendant and has used the crest of seiros (which marks the pact between wilhelm('s blood) and the nabatean rhea), they are pact-partners now, Just Like Old Fódlan Used To Make

rhea can't crack Terminal Blood Curse right now, but she does have a lot of knowledge about it and its course/symptoms (and she can confirm edelgard's problem as being The Very Same Indeed)

she feels pretty strongly about finishing her work, and is suddenly edelgard's funny pact partner, and third of all has Nowhere Else To Go And Everything She Knew Is Gone--so she says she'll help lmao

edelgard is more or less used to not finding concrete answers to her curse problem at this point given the difficulty level of this investigation. so she p much just moves on to the next lead on her checklist. gotta keep it moving if she's gonna crack this thing in time

road trip!

rhea basically provides her with palliative care while they look for ways to break the curse. she does feel noticeably better with a more specialized healer (<- kind of an understatement) and it is buying her more time to work with which is good

strangers separated by millennia of history but slowly bonding!

maybe on the way they'll also root out the bitches who put the curse on her to begin with

if you are out there slithering in the dark. you better not be

finally,

edelgard is a big axe guy. she does not do healing magic. she is basically face-tanking everything and rhea is so busy casting heals and shields she barely has time to do any DPS of her own

im sure they run into other characters n stuff on their funny road trip too but that all is the basic concept

(rhea voice) i'll Embrace but christ alive

#SETR

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unearthlytwilight · 11 months ago

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24E. oh boy we're really in it now

important: implied animal cruelty. if that makes you uncomfy, skip this one. if not, all aboard for part one of the fetch quest!

Eliwood and friends infiltrate Bern castle and... hide in a bush. I'm imagining a Scooby-Doo-esque head stack

Desmond tells her to go play, then gets pissed at Zephiel for being a loving brother. he accuses him of wanting to see Guinevere dead and tells him and Murdock to fuck off. classic Desmond *laugh track*

Sonia shows up and helpfully exposits on the Fire Emblem's location. nice. she senses someone but Desmond says "don't worry it's my kid", which is convenient. anyway, she leaves

Guinevere is upset that Zephiel is gone. Desmond, in a rare display of non-jackassery, offers to play with her, but she declines.

(one reason I love these GBA cutscenes is that the portraits move left/right across the screen easily, making them more dynamic. above, Desmond moves closer to Guinevere and she backs away from him. it reflects action in a way you just don't get with models)

anyway, Guinevere goes to find Zephiel and gives Desmond her baby fox to hold. I think we all know where this is going

Desmond does love his daughter, but it doesn't make him any better. usually you see "oh the villain has a loved one" as easy sympathy points, but not here. kinda refreshing

cut to the lords discussing how bad the situation is. they decide to bounce, and then we cut to Ninian and Nils outside. Ninian is worried because they've been in there for a while

you're a little late, Nils, they got their A last chapter. also, rare Ninian exclamation point

they get surprised by this lady, Vaida, who they can't sense because something something Nergal did it. she's looking for the two, and the lords catch up and call her a lackey. honestly hilarious

Vaida says nuh-uh and tells her troops to attack.

side note: there's a well-known exploit known as the "mine glitch", where if you close the game when a mine goes off and then input a series of buttons, you can control enemies. Vaida's spear is coded to give its wielder big stat buffs. guess what people do

the combat's not so bad. there are wyvern reinforcements near the shops in the top right, but otherwise it's definitely manageable

but before we get to that, Pent and Louise join! Pent gives us a Heaven seal, used to promote Hector or Lyn.

Eliwood, you gotta believe in yourself. do I have to come over there

pov: you're a castle guard and see this shit happening five feet away

apparently [tactician] is famous in Bern. nice little personal detail

Hector gets the promotion because he capped strength. Heath also caps strength. who even needs the Vaida spear

sage crit! Pent says there can only be one

(somewhere, Priscilla and Erk got their B. Priscilla gets jealous of Erk because his previous employer was a lady, but Erk is all "oh god no I hate her." meh. at least this one has characterization? 5/10)

the bottom-left village has a hammerne staff from ...Ursula. surprised? me, too. Sain I don't think she's girlfriend material

anyway! after 11 turns, Vaida decides she's had enough of this and peaces out. Eliwood and the gang follow her, courtesy of Lyn

Lyn and Hector really do have that sitcom frenemy relationship

next time: we spy on the spies and figure out really obtuse character select requirements!

#twilight plays: fe7 #fire emblem #fe 7 #fire emblem blazing blade

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grandsonoflightike · 1 month ago

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Grey Three Houses/Hope P20: Severing The Shadow Past

Background song Announcement: Let It Burn By Red

Light Male Robin: After a furious march, Shadow Edelgard's army restores a measure of peace to the imperiled lands of Shadow Hrym, only to learn of a revolt at Fort Shadow Merceus, staged by the deposed Duke Shadow Aegir. The disturbance in Shadow Hrym was but a feint to give those who shadow slither in the dark time to capture Shadow Merceus and eventually the capital of Shadow Enbarr--but Shadow Edelgard moves to thwart them.

*Viscount Shadow Fenja meets with the former Duke Shadow Aegir in a conference room within Fort Shadow Merceus.*

Viscount Shasow Fenja: Have you heard, Duke Aegir? Viscount Shadow Menja has hastened from afar to join your cause. Our houses, Shadow Fenja and Shadow Menja, share a distant blood ancestor. And now we stand together again to save the Shadow Empire from her plight!

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Hastened from afar with what? That miserable smattering of soldiers? From what I hear, Shadow Menja's heir is a rabid supporter of the shadow emperor. Are you certain the shadow father is not being foisted on us just to get him out of the picture?

Viscount Shadow Fenja: Absolutely not! And besides, all of House Shadow Fenja is united behind you. If we appeal to the other lords jointly, I'm certain a multitude of troops will flock to Fort Shadow Merceus!

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: I should hope so. I've no idea why they'd side with that pathetic excuse for an shadow emperor. Only I, Shadow Ludwig von Aegir, can restore Shadow Adrestia to its former glory!

*An Shadow Imperial soldier interrupts the shadow viscount and former shadow duke's conversation.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: About those mages. They say they want to, er...alter the fort's defenses.

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Fine, fine. Let them do as they wish. So long as we're outnumbered, we must embrace creative solutions. Shadow Edelgard will strike the moment we give any indication we're after the capital. We'll lure her troops inside, then dispose of them all at once. It will be an easy victory.

Viscount Shadow Fenja: I always knew you were a brilliant tactician. They will never see it coming. Now, if we might discuss key posts in your future administration...

*Viscount Shadow Fenja leaves the former shadow duke to allow him a moment to himself.*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: I can only hope Her Shadow Majesty is weak and foolish enough to be so ensnared. It was never my intent to divide the Shadow Empire in war. That's not what I wanted. If she'd said one word—one word!—indicating there might be a place for me, none of this would've been necessary. Enough. I must purge my mind of such thoughts. I must win. I must prevail over her! And if I cannot... You must be the one to cut me down, Shadow Ferdinand.

*Ferdinand meets with Edelgard in the camp's conference room.*

Shadow Ferdinand: Shadow Edelgard, do you have a moment?

Shadow Edelgard: Of course, Shadow Ferdinand. But please keep it short.

Shadow Ferdinand: It is about my shadow father. My pleas for a fair trial cost you time and delayed his sentencing. It also gave the Knights of Grey Seiros an opening to conduct their raid, which provided him ample opportunity to stage an escape. I am to blame for all that has transpired.

Shadow Edelgard: Let me hurry you along to the point, if I may. What are you going to do about it? Or, more likely, what do you want me to do about it?

Shadow Ferdinand: Put me in the field when we retake Fort Shadow Merceus and permit me to rectify my own mistake. Will you allow me that?

Shadow Edelgard: I was wondering when you'd ask. Don't worry— I've already made the arrangements. But you mustn't do anything reckless. You will stick to the battle plan, and that is a direct order.

Shadow Ferdinand: Ah, Shadow Edelgard! You are the very picture of reason! The very epitome of wise stewardship!

Shadow Edelgard: Enough. You can gush over me after the battle if you still feel the urge. We've no idea how things will go, after all, and you may be in a very different mood.

Shadow Ferdinand: True. All the same, I am grateful. Thank you!

*Shadow Ferdinand leaves.*

Shadow Edelgard: You can come out, Shadow Hubert. I know you're listening.

*Shadow Hubert enters after Shadow Ferdinand leaves.*

Shadow Hubert: I came to give you the latest report, Your Shadow Majesty, but decided to wait until this...other business reached its conclusion.

Shadow Edelgard: Then you know what must be done. Make sure he's given protection.

Shadow Hubert: Oh, I will if I find the time. You do keep me quite busy, after all.

Shadow Edelgard: You found a way to take care of them?

Shadow Hubert: I can assure you those cretins will rue ever setting foot in Her Shadow Majesty's fortress. They wanted thick walls, and we will give them the thickest ones a coffin can provide.

Shadow Edelgard: This is our chance to decimate the forces of those who slither in the dark...

*In Shadow Imperial Camp, Southern Hrym Territory of Adrestian Empire, Shadow Shez Talks to Shadow Edelgard.*

Shadow Edelgard: The former Duke Shadow Aegir is not the only problem we're facing. We have the Light Kingdom, the Light Alliance, and those within the Shadoe Empire to contend with, as well. We must divide our attention among these many issues all at once.

Shadow Shez: That sounds like a ton of work. I wish there was more I could do outside of battle.

Shadow Edelgard: Well, we have plenty of work to go around, so all you need to do is ask.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Shadow Hubert.*

Shadow Hubert: We almost have a complete grasp of their formations within Fort Shadow Merceus. However, that information alone does not guarantee our victory. The fort's defenses are substantial. The former Duke Shadow Aegir is quite capable, thought those who shadow slither in the dark are likely assisting him.

Shadow Shez: I didn't expect you to think so highly of him.

Shadow Hubert: Of couse I do. He may be a fool in many other ways, but I acknowledge competency when I see it.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Ferdinand.*

Shadow Ferdinand: ... Oh, hello. I was just coming up with a strategy. I know my shadow father better than anyone, so does it not follow that I would be the best person to guess at his thinking?

Shadow Shez: You sure are. How about you go ahead and decide all our troops' positions then?

Shadow Ferdinand: Come now, none of that. Our forces ought to use my thoughts as a basis for planning. Were I to do it myself, Shadow Hubert would simply scoff and proclaim my positioning to be "idiotic."

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Linhardt.*

Shadow Linhardt: Shadow Caspar would often drag me along to Fort Shadow Merceus when we were children. We played there quite a bit. It is an enormous fortress city, with a sprawling town, open fields, and even a lake. All your imagination could come up with is housed within its great walls. It would well be worth taking a look around if we weren't going there for a battle.

Shadow Shez: We definitely don't have time to be sightseeing right now. We'll just have to hope we can look around after we win.

Shadow Linhardt: Yes, I suppose victory should be our first priority.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Caspar.*

Shadow Caspar: This never would've happened if my shadow father had been at the fort. No point crying over spilled milk though. We're gonna take that fort back! And I know my shadow brother's been taken hostage, but you don't need to worry about him. He was prepared for this. We're a warrior family after all.

Shadow Shez: What about your other family members? They're not being held hostage, are they?

Shadow Caspar: Nah, no need to worry. Everyone else is in the capital. That's where most of the nobles are, you know.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Bernadetta.*

Shadow Bernadetta: Duke Shadow Aegir... Wait, he's now the former Duke Shadow Aegir, right? I wonder where he's been all this time. He must've holed himself up somewhere. I wish I had a place like that.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Dorothea.*

Shadow Dorothea: Shadow Edie says the nobility shouldn't exist anymore. I guess you could say this is the first step in that direction.

Shadow Shez: Do you agree with her? That nobility should be done away with, I mean.

Shadow Dorothea: Of course. I wouldn't be fighting with her if I didn't.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Petra.*

Shadow Petra: Light Arianrhod is the Light Silver Maiden. Shadow Merceus is the Stubborn Old Shadow General, yes? Despite being a maiden, she was formidable. I am imagining the old general is even more greatly formidable.

Shadow Shez: A stubborn old man or a young woman, huh? Between the two, I'd rather not cross swords with the old man. Among mercenaries, those who live the longest tend to have a reputation for being the toughest to take down.

Shadow Petra: I see. Again, you show your mercenary wisdom. I am learning much.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Shadow Monica.*

Shadow Monica: My shadow house is following Her Shadow Majesty because I am here. If that weren't the case, then I should expect they would've followed the former shadow duke instead. My shadow house is very old-fashioned, you see. My shadow father, the current shadow baron, is an outlier even among the rest of my house. He was forced into accepting the title, you know.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Ashe.*

Light Ashe: Oh, Shez. Do you want to come with me to Shadow Hrym later to help with rebuilding efforts? There's all kinds of work that needs doing. Stuff like building repairs and tossing out rubble...

Shadow Shez: Of course I'll go. You know, I haven't seen you look this cheerful in a while.

Light Ashe: Is that so? Sorry if I made you worry... I want the townsfolk to go back to their old lives as soon as possible.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Mercedes and Shadow Jeritza.*

Light Mercedes: You hear that, Shadow Shez? He's telling me I shouldn't fight! Can you believe that?

Shadow Jeritza: All I said was there is no need for you to go out of your way... I can kill in your place... It wouldn't be a problem...

Shadow Shez: Wait, that wouldn't work. You occupy completely different roles in battle. It doesn't make sense for you to take over for her.

Light Mercedes: That's right! I have my role and you have yours.

Shadow Jeritza: Once this battle is over, we will be continuing our fight in the Kingdom. You would be unhappy if you had to strike down old acquaintances.

Light Mercedes: I appreciate your concern. But I'm all right now. You don't have to worry about me.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Light Lorenz.*

Light Lorenz: My light father returned to Light Gloucester to bolster security on the Light Great Bridge of Myrddin. He mentioned that he wanted to prepare in case forces sympathetic to this rebellion appear. He encourages me to serve the Shadow Empire, while he remains quite concerned about Light Leicester. He has always been difficult to read, but I feel as though I've grown to understand him better as of late.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Raphael.*

Light Raphael: Some Imperial nobles over there were havin' a real serious conversation. I listened in and I kept hearing 'em say something that sounded like "funya munya." Wonder what that's all about.

Shadow Shez: Maybe you heard the enemy using some unknown language? The bad guys have got some real inscrutable characters among them.

Light Raphael: Oh yeah, that makes sense. You're so smart! Hm... Wait, maybe it wasn't "funya munya." Could it have been "shadow fenyuh shadow menyuh?"

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Ignatz.*

Light Ignatz: Fort Shadow Merceus is an impenetrable fortress city that was designed to serve as defense for the Shadow Imperial capital. It's also called the Stubborn Old Shadow General. As that nickname suggests, it has a very long history. Taking it back won't be a simple matter, but I hope I can have a good look around if we manage to win.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks to Grey Lysithea.*

Grey Lysithea: I heard there were a number of suspicious shadow mages among the forces that attacked Fort Shadow Merceus. There can be no doubt now. This is the work of those who shadow slither in the dark. I couldn't care less about the former Duke Shadow Aegir, but we absolutely have to get their leader this time.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Marianne.*

Light Marianne: I hope everyone who's been taken hostage is all right. Will they be punished for our attack? Oh, Goddess, please protect them.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Leonie and Grey Jeralt.*

Light Leonie: Hey, Shadow Shez! Let me introduce you. This is Grey Jeralt, my Grey captain!

Grey Jeralt: Hey, you're the newcomer here. Shouldn't I be introducing you?

Light Leonie: Your introduction wouldn't mention that I'm your first and best apprentice, so...nah.

Grey Jeralt: Look. You've been asleep this whole time because of the poison the enemy hit you with. And you were just a kid when I taught you the basics of being a mercenary. I was jsut humoring you back then, to kill time. I don't remember taking you on as my light apprentice.

Light Leonie: How can you say something so harsh after changing my life?! Are you trying to make me cry? Because I'm on the verge of tears here!

Grey Jeralt: Come on, don't get all worked up. OK, you're my first and greatest light apprentice. Happy now?

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Grey Yuri.*

Grey Yuri: So they seized the fort during the Minister of Military Affairs' absence. Hah! What did I tell you? We have to treat this as though the entire town has been taken hostage against us, too. We cannot mess this up. Not only that, but they've holed themselves up in the infamous Fort Shadow Merceus, of all places. How on earth are we going to tackle this?

Shadow Shez: They might be our enemy, but I'm pretty imnpressed with their skills. We need to strike with a considered, bold offense.

Grey Yuri: You're right. We can't just rely on our commanders to make the decisions for us. We should all think of a strategy, together. We'll jeopardize our fight with the Light Kingdom if we make a mistake. Ugh, my head is starting to hurt from all this constant tightrope walking.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Grey Balthus.*

Grey Balthus: Ugh, this is real bad news. There's this guy back in Shadow Enbarr that I owe a whole bunch of money to and now he's joined up with old Duke Shadow Aegir.

Shadow Shez: Don't tell me you want to defeat him just so you can get out of paying your debt?

Grey Balthus: Hold on now! Don't go trashing my good name like that! I'm not trying to get out of my debts.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Grey Constance.*

Grey Constance: Did you hear that in his efforts to overthrow the shadow emperor... Duke Shadow Aegir called on countless nobles to try and negotiate. However! Why was Novelle not among them? Does our revival not serve as an atractive lure for other regions?!

Shadow Shez: Why are you mad about it? You do realize you'd be on the other side if he came to you, right?

Grey Constance: How dare you assume I would join him! I am only furious to be passed over!

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Grey Hapi.*

Grey Hapi: I guess those who shadow slither in the dark aren't a monolith, huh? There was Light Cornelia, and Shadow Thales, was it? And now Shadow Solon... I think they all just do whatever they want to do. I wonder if they'll pop up again in Shadow Merceus.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Manuela and Shadow Hanneman.*

Shadow Hanneman: You were of great help to me in Shadow Hrym, Shadow Manuela. I am truly glad you were there.

Shadow Manuela: Can you please not, Shadow Hanneman? It chills me to my core when you thank me earnestly.

Shadow Hanneman: Excuse me?! Of all the nerve! I am attempting to offer my heartfelt thanks, and you claim I give you the chills?! Did no one teach you proper manners?

Shadow Manuela: That's none of your concern, you doddering old geezer! Honestly, this feels less like gratitude and more like openly insulting me!

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Grey Shamir.*

Grey Shamir: I see... Our enemies this time are the Shadow Empire's old rulers. This is good. We'll be able to bring them down without a complicated hassle afterward. But to be honest I wouldn't mind taking out those who've changed sides to join Shasow Edelgard, either.

Shadow Shez: That's a dangerous thing to say, Grey Shamir. I don't really mind, but be careful who you say that to.

Grey Shamir: I know that. I'm only telling you because you're someone I can trust.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Shadow Byleth.*

Shadow Byleth: My Sister and I gave up on the people we knew couldn't be saved, and switched to rescuing those who we thought still had a chance. And they called us demons for it. What else should I have done?

Shadow Shez: Those who need help never think about what the person helping them is going through. Hmm. Hard to say what you should do. You guys really are tough to read.

Shadow Byleth: I guess we have to work on that, then.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Grey Alois.*

Grey Alois: The grey church always dispatched the grey knights quickly when fighting arose and people came to harm. Because of that, some of the grey knights specialized in transport and construction. On occasion they'd rope me into those duties too, but I'll tell you... I was always in awe of their knowledge and experience. Maybe we could learn a thing or two from some parts of the church.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Grey Gatekeeper.*

Grey Gatekeeper: Greetings, Commander! Something to report! I can't believe we're gonna be fighting people from the Shadow Empire! This has got to be the biggest crisis we've faced since the start of the war! I'll tell you what, though! I knew right away that the string-pullers weren't from the Empire. Don't you agree?

*Shadow Shez then talks to Shadow Arval.*

Shadow Arval: You know who is behind this insurrection, don't you? I wonder if you are equipped to deal with our enemy that looms on the horizon. But equipped or no, this war will take a turn for the worse before long. I promise I will do what I can to aid you when it does.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks to The Shadow Mage near the Common Area.*

Shadow Mage: Did you know that if you travel east of here, pass through Shadow Aegir territory, and sail across the sea... You'll come to Shadow Morfis, the metropolis of magic. Beyond that is a long trade route that heads east. Shadow Aegir territory took over that trade route, and even came to own some fertile land that faces the sea.

*Shadow Shez then Talks to The Shadow Merchant.*

Shadow Merchant: What is it? Look, I'm trying real hard to act like a shadow merchant right now... Please don't talk to me. I'm busy with the mission. Ahem. Welcome, welcome! I have some great items on sale today!

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Imperial Soldier at the Marketplace.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: Duke Shadow Aegir could've chosen a different time for an uprising. I mean, the Great Light Tree Moon is already over! It's the new year, and we haven't gotten any rest at all because of this mess he caused.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks To Light Mercenary by the Campfire.*

Light Mercenary: House Shadow Bergliez is incredibly powerful, nigh invincible, and is second to none when it comes to martial prowess. Or so people say, at any rate. I believed it too. They haven't really put on a good showing lately though, have they? First all that business with Light Leicester, and now this. I dunno, they're probably doing just fine, right? The rumors might just be a little exaggerated.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Imperial Soldier in the Central Plaza.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: I have come to deliver a letter to Her Shadow Majesty from Count Shadow Hevring in the Imperial capital. You are aware that the former Duke Shadow Aegir is attempting to spy on the shadow capital from Fort Shadow Merceus, yes? Are we truly going to be all right? Am I going to be able to get back safely?

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Imperial Soldier at the Recreation Quarter.*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: Fort Shadow Merceus was built back when the Shadow Empire was only about the size of Shadow Hresvelg territory. They constructed the massive military base in order to subdue other clans in the area. After that, it ended up serving as the guardian of the Shadow Imperial capital, and kept getting updated and expanded. The rest is history.

*Shadow Shez Then Talks to Shadow Imperial General at the Training Grounds.*

Shadow Imperial General: Do you know Viscount Shadow Fenja? I've got a bone to pick with that odious woman. She's apparently joined up with the former Duke Shadow Aegir, so this is the perfect opportunity for revenge. How dare she ridicule my Shadow father, just because he's a commoner...

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Shadow Imperial General near the Central Plaza.*

Shadow Imperial General: Just as the key port in the west is what used to be Shadow Nuvelle, the key port in the east is Boramas, in Shadow Aegir territory. Of course, if we were to consider sheer size, then the one in Shadow Enbarr could be a contender. But the port in Shadow Boramas is much easier to use since it faces the inland Grey Pearl Sea, whereas the one in Shadow Enbarr looks out onto foreign waters.

*Then Shadow Shez Talks To Light Alliance Soldier.*

Light Alliance Soldier: The Light Alliance leader ordered me to rush over here when we heard our allies were in danger. But then I was told you don't need any assistance capturing the fort. Instead I was asked to maintain order in the areas near Light Alliance territory. Don't you think that was a bit harsh, considering I came all this way? Well, I suppose it's just like him to send me off without waiting for a reply from you.

*Shadow Shez Then returns to Shadow Monica and talks to her.*

Shadow Monica: What do you need, Shadow Shez?

Shadow Shez: Remember the thing Shadow Byleth did with Shadow Edelgard while I was gone? What was that?

Shadow Monica: That was an Expedition. A lot of the others Have been doing it their now Lovers and Family if they have none they love. Shadow Jertiza went on 1 with Light Mercedes and another with Shadow Scileth. There is something about it that gains support. I asked Shadow Edelgard to go on one with me but she declined for some reason.

*Shadow Byleth then kisses Shadow Edelgard On The Lips and Shadow Shez Points this out to Shadow Monica.*

Shadow Edelgard: *Whispers but Shadow Shez and Shadow Monica still hear it.* I love you too, Shadow Byleth.

Shadow Monica: So that is why she declined.

Shadow Shez: *Thinks* This might be my chance. *Says* Perhaps We Can Go on a Expedition…

Shadow Monica: *Looks at him* As Friends?

Shadow Shez: Yes, Of Course. *Thinks* Drats.

Shadow Monica: Yeah, why not? *Is A Little sad it is as Friends but can’t Figure out why and Shadow Shez doesn’t see the sadness in her eyes because he has tears in his. Then She looks towards Shadow Shez.*

Shadow Shez: I will go get the horses.

*When Shadow Shez Turns away, Shadow Monica sees that he’s Crying. This makes her realize that he might love her which is why he invited her. This makes her smile. Shadow Shez And Shadow Monica Ride out to a vast expanse of green, natural splendor stretching as far as the eye can see. They tie up their horses to graze by the Meadow.*

Shadow Monica: If I knew it was going to be this relaxing, I would have brought her shadow majesty along if she didn’t love Shadow Byleth.

*A beautiful panorama stretches out before them, as far as the eye can see. Shadow Shez picks a flower and hands it to Shadow Monica.*

Shadow Monica: For me? Wow… I can’t remember the last time someone gave me flowers.

*After Enjoying a pleasant stroll, Shadow Shez and Shadow Monica decide to take a break. Shadow Shez Asks Shadow Monica about her worries.*

Shadow Monica: Sometimes I wonder what would’ve happened if I had…died. Back in the place where I was being held.

*Shadow Shez shows that he would be sad. Then He asks her about her dreams for the future.*

Shadow Monica: My wish for the future is that Her Shadow Majesty will unify Grey Fódlan, enact reforms, and make her dream a reality.

*Shadow Shez Gives Shadow Monica a Pep Talk. Then He asks her about her likes.*

Shadow Monica: I mostly like to read books and perform research. Knowledge is a powerful weapon, you know!

*Shadow Shez Gets Competitive Over It toward Shadow Monica. The Conversation is wildly Engaging. They then Start To Head back. After Shadow Shez And Shadow Monica return from their expedition, Shadow Edelgard holds a meeting on The Shadow Fortress’s Weakness.*

Shadow Edelgard: Our scouts have returned from Fort Shadow Merceus. There's less movement than we anticipated. That likely means the former Duke Shadow Aegir wants us to attack the fortress to make up for his disadvantage in troop strength.

Shadow Linhardt: The numbers don't lie. One needs three times the forces of their enemy to claim a castle in a siege. Although that's if you attempt to take it head-on...

Shadow Caspar: So do we have a plan or what? I mean, Fort Shadow Merceus is basically impenetrable. Heh. Actually, this one time, we came home well after curfew and had to try and sneak back in. Turns out, there was no way in. The guards mistook us for bandits, and my shadow father shouted at us until he lost his voice. Ah, good times...

Shadow Hubert: The good news is that we have learned of a passage into the fort which was been kept secret since its construction. The bad news is that Shadow Aegir likely also learned of the passage when he was shadow prime minister. Unless his reason has completely taken flight, the man will take some sort of measures to defend it.

Shadow Petra: The fortress is huge in size. We should organize small teams and be attacking from many points. If we achieve success, we can open the gates from the inside and be giving the enemy a surprise.

Shadow Monica: It only serves other regions if the Empire starts shedding Empire blood. We should find a resolution that minimizes casualties on both sides.

Shadow Bernadetta: Um, is this the part where I chime in? Because, um...if you want to coax someone out of hiding, breaking down the door is the wrong way to go about it. That'll only push them further into their shells, sooo...I think we should try talking to them instead.

Shadow Arval: Is it just me, or is our corner of the world an uncontrolled mess?

Shadow Shez: Why don't we just put all of your plans into action? Let's just throw everything at the wall and see what sticks. We've got the numbers to do it. We can sneak soldiers in, use the secret passage, talk it out, and apply brute force all at the same time. As long as one of those approaches works, we'll win.

Shadow Arval: That's actually not a bad plan... And it didn't even come from me! Amazing! I mean, the "brute force" part is a little risky, but I dare say you're learning!

Shadow Hubert: Hmm. An intriguing idea.

Shadow Dorothea: But what about the hostages? If we force our way in, they're likely to be killed.

Shadow Ferdinand: I will not permit that to happen. And while my shadow father may be a fallen shadow noble, he is still a shadow noble, and not the sort of man to start butchering innocent people when the tides turn.

Shadow Edelgard: I pray you are right, Shadow Ferdinand—though I believe you never know what a person is capable of until they act. We will proceed with this plan at once, adapting as the situations dictate. We cannot fail. Not here. Not now.

*Shadow Shez, Shadow Edelgard, Shadow Hubert, Shadow Ferdinand, and Shadow Monica meet outside the fortress.*

Shadow Edelgard: If everyone is prepared, it's time to make our move. Our troops attacking the gates have been instructed not to force their way in. Before long, the enemy will notice as much and realize we're already inside.

Shadow Hubert: We need to locate and strike down the rebel leader. That should put an end to the insurrection. Along the way, you may encounter suspicious agents. They are the true masterminds behind the rebellion, and must all be eradicated.

Shadow Shez: Got it. Now let's get going before those bloodthirsty monsters hurt any of the hostages!

Shadow Monica: I haven't been this angry in a long time. When is that shadow man going to stop being a thorn in Her Shadow Majesty's side?

Shadow Hubert: Ah, how splendid. But do try not to become so flush with rage that you make a foolish error.

Shadow Monica: Perhaps if you grew flush with rage every now and again you wouldn't have the complexion of a coffin-dweller!

Shadow Edelgard: Quiet! Both of you.

Shadow Ferdinand: ...

Shadow Shez: You don't have to do this, Shadow Ferdinand. You can always stay back if you have doubts.

Shadow Ferdinand: No. Fate put me on this path, and now I must walk it.

*At the start of battle*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Enemy soldiers have breached our fortifications! To arms! Defend the glory of the Empire!

Shadow Edelgard: they've seen through our ruse already. Prepare to take the fortress! Start by seizing the inner ward.

Shadow Ferdinand: These mercenaries are no better than common bandits! How could my shadow father make a deal with such a pack of rogues?

*After seizing one of the outer strongholds*

Shadow Ferdinand: It appears we have taken control of the fortress walls. Now we can move our catapults into position and attack.

*When the strategy "Wall-Mounted Catapults" is used*

Shadow Edelgard: Unleash the catapults! Break our enemy's spirit!

*After seizing the East Residential Roads*

Shadow Mercenary: Looks like this ain't your lucky day!

Shadow Caspar: I should've expected an ambush--we used to play hide-and-seek here all the time!

*After seizing the North Residential Roads*

Shadow Mercenary: Looks like they're here--and once we kill 'em all, we'll have more riches than we know what to do with! Bwahaha!

Shadow Bernadetta: Ack! Look out! Somebody do some crowd control or something!

*After a unit reaches the inner ward from the north or east*

Shadow Edelgard: This is going well--almost too well. Is Shadow Aegir truly so short-handed?

*Shadow Hubert notices a Wall of Darkness protecting the Inner Main Checkpoint*

Shadow Hubert: That barrier was formed with dark magic. We must eliminate the caster in order to pass.

Shadow Ferdinand: They only delay the inevitable.

Shadow Rebel Soldier: We have the enemy where we want them! Unleash the arrows!

*The shadow rebel army activates the Inner North and Inner East Ballistae.*

Shadow Petra: Those ballistae require stopping!

*After seizing one ballista stronghold*

Shadow Petra: One ballista seized!

*After seizing both ballista strongholds*

Shadow Bernadetta: Yay! No more arrows!

*After defeating one of the Dark Bishops*

Shadow Linhardt: This shady magic just doesn't do much for me.

*After defeating both Dark Bishops*

Shadow Monica: I care not if it's magic walls or what have you. If you get in the way of Her Shadow Majesty, you will pay!

Shadow Kronya: Pathetic fools! And to think I was entertaining the idea of letting you scamper away.

*Shadow Kronya appears at the Gate Defense Tower, and Shadow Dolofonos at the Inner Main Checkpoint. Shadow Kronya also activates a Viskam to attack the center of the fortress.*

Shadow Edelgard: What was that attack?

Shadow Kronya: Ahahaha! I give you...the Viskam! I hope you like being roasted alive, because that's exactly what's about to happen to you.

Shadow Monica: That thing will hamper our advance, but maybe the detachment can do something about it.

*The detachment force near the Fortress Back Alley mobilizes.*

Shadow Edelgard: A weapon of that scale is certain to be controlled by some kind of device.

Shadow Hubert: On your command, we can use the agents we scattered amongst the rebels to throw the enemy into disarray.

*When the strategy "Infiltration" is used*

Shadow Imperial Soldier: It was a mistake to join this rebellion... Our allegiance lies with Emperor Shadow Edelgard!

Shadow Rebel Soldier: What's going on? Who's switching sides?

Shadow Rebel Soldier: Get in there and hammer 'em while they're pinned down by that magic weapon!

*More Rebel Soldiers appear and form a pincer attack.*

Shadow Dorothea: Are you kidding me? Reinforcements? This day just keeps getting better.

Shadow Rebel General: The enemy's here! Kill them all!

*After disabling one of the Viskam controls*

Shadow Monica: It didn't work! There must be another device controlling that weapon...

Shadow Kronya: Who gave these wretches leave to scurry in? Exterminate them!

*After disabling both Viskam controls*

Shadow Edelgard: Well, we've smashed their little toy--let's see what their next move will be.

Shadow Kronya: But Shadow Thales gave me that... Ooh, I am so mad at you right now!

*After defeating the enemy reinforcements*

Shadow Dorothea: I think that's the end of the reinforcements.

*After defeating all of Shadow Dolofonos' copies*

Shadow Dolofonos: So I've been defanged...

Shadow Kronya: They got him? I do not appreciate that!

*The gates to Shadow Imperial stronghold open.*

Shadow Kronya: That's it! I'm going to rip you apart myself!

*After defeating the enemy targeting the detachment force*

Shadow Edelgard: I don't know how we made it, but we did.

*When Shadow Monica encounters Shadow Kronya*

Shadow Kronya: Well, well, if it isn't Shadow Monica! Tell me, what kind of mush-for-brains comes crawling back to the woman who almost killed her?

Shadow Monica: So I'm to have my revenge today, am I? Oh. Her Majesty is far too kind.

*When Shadow Shez encounters Shadow Kronya With Shadow Monica*

Shadow Kronya: Hey, why can you wield that power, huh? Who even are you?

Shadow Shez: Why don't you tell me? You seem to know more than enough about it already.

*When Shadow Kronya's HP reach <= 50%*

Shadow Kronya: You aggravating little worm! Would somebody please step up and do something about those other vermin there?!

Shadow Edelgard: The enemy's targeting our detachment. We must strike down Kronya and reach them!

*When Shadow Kronya is defeated*

Shadow Kronya: No... This is wrong... I can't die...

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: I never expected much from those shifty vermin, and here I am with the cold embrace of the grave hovering at my shoulder.

Viscount Shadow Fenja: I thought our victory was assured! How could everything have gone so wrong?!

Viscount Shadow Menja: There is naught left but to resist with all our might. Help me push them back!

Shadow Edelgard: The writing is on the wall, but those fools would sooner perish than admit it.

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Arm the fire orbs! We'll rain death down upon them from above!

*The former shadow duke launches fire orbs from the Middle Defense Tower.*

Shadow Linhardt: Fire orbs? Those must be new. A little gauche, if you ask me.

Shadow Caspar: They look real dangerous, though. Also, what's a gauche?

Count Shadow Hevring: It's time. Conjure a magic shield to safeguard our comrades!

*Count Shadow Hevring and his Shadow Priest guard cast Ward on the Shadow Imperial army to protect them from the fire orb attack.*

Count Shadow Hevring: Your Shadow Majesty, forgive my lateness. The outer defenses only just fell.

Edelgard: On the contrary, your timing is perfect.

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Is that...Shadow Waldemar? Curse that man! Why must he always show up at the worst possible moment and ruin everything?

*When Viscount Shadow Fenja is defeated and other Rebel Army generals remain*

Viscount Shadow Fenja: My dreams of glory... Why...

*When Viscount Shadow Menja is defeated and other Shadow Rebel Army generals remain*

Viscount Shadow Menja: I never should have come to this accursed place...

*When Viscount Shadow Fenja, Viscount Shadow Menja, and their Shadow Rebel Army allies are defeated*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Viscount Shadow Fenja... Viscount Shadow Menja... Forgive me...

Shadow Ferdinand: I'm coming for you, Shadow Father…

*As the Shadow Imperial army approaches the former Duke Shadow Aegir*

Shadow Rebel Soldier: The enemy is getting too close to Duke Shadow Aegir! We must hurry to his side!

Shadow Hubert: Oh, but you are far too late now!

*When the army reaches the former Duke Shadow Aegir*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: My name is Shadow Ludwig von Aegir! I see the Shadow Empire in the throes of a terrible sickness, and I intend to cure it or die in the attempt!

*When Shadow Edelgard encounters the former Duke Shadow Aegir*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: Will you not heed me, Your Shadow Majesty? This ideology of yours leaves countless good people by the wayside!

Shadow Edelgard: Yet countless more were already suffering prior. All I did was make a choice.

*When Shadow Ferdinand encounters the former Duke Shadow Aegir*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: So, my son. You come to claim your poor father's head at last.

Shadow Ferdinand: I come to do my duty. No more and no less.

*When the former Duke Shadow Aegir's HP reach <= 50%*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: I must not fall! The Shadow Empire needs me!

*When the former Duke Shadow Aegir's HP reach <= 25%*

Former Duke Shadow Aegir: I will not falter until I see the ShadowEmpire's former glory and principles restored!

*The former Duke Shadow Aegir staggers after taking a hit, prompting several Fortress Knights to rush to his defense. Shadow Ferdinand and Shadow Hubert approach, ready to deliver their final judgment.*

Shadow Ferdinand: That is enough. There is no escape from you.

*The former duke's guards attack Shadow Ferdinand, but are all laid low by Shadow Hubert's dark magic.*

Shadow Hubert: *to Shadow Ferdinand* *laughs* Go on, then. I'll leave for you the final blow.

*Shadow Ferdinand raises a lance and approaches his shadow father, who readies his axe to defend himself.*

Shadow Ferdinand: *to Shadow Hubert* You leave me nothing. This was ever my burden to bear. *to his Shadow father* Shadow Father. No...you are just a traitor now. In light of your crimes against the Shadow Empire... The punishment is death!

*Shadow Ferdinand swings his lance at his shadow father's neck, and the former shadow duke can only close his eyes as the screen smash cuts to black when blade meets flesh.*

Shadow Hubert: Send a runner to House Menja and have them deliver the letter I drafted. Also, take the soldiers under your command and begin investigating any magic constructs abandoned by the enemy.

Shadow Imperial General: At once, Lord Shadow Hubert!

Shadow Ferdinand: Ngh...

Shadow Shez: ...

Shadow Arval: It must be awful to end your own parent's life...

Shadow Shez: Come on, Shadow Ferdinand. Let's get going.

Shadow Ferdinand: No, you may continue without me. I would like to stay here a moment. Just a moment longer...

*Shadow Edelgard and Shadow Byleth enter together and this surprises All Other Being But Shadow Ferdinand, who is just standing there sad.*

Shadow Edelgard: Shadow Hubert, we have a messenger from the Light Alliance—and I need to know where our western campaign stands. Shadow Ferdinand? May I have a word? I thought I'd let you to decide how to punish your shadow father's followers now that they've surrendered.

Shadow Ferdinand: Ah...

Shadow Edelgard: Furthermore, this incident has led to the end of Shadow Fenja and several other shadow noble houses. We need to settle the matter of the next Duke Shadow Aegir, and we need to do so quickly. So if you don't mind...

Shadow Ferdinand: Is this your attempt at solace, Shadow Edelgard?

Shadow Edelgard: What?

Shadow Ferdinand: I will punish the troops. And I will find a way to administer my shadow father's lands. You can trust in me, Your Shadow Majesty. And...thank you for considering my feelings in the matter.

Shadow Byleth: *Smiles, surprising everyone but Shadow Edelgard* Told you he just needed a pep talk.

Shadow Edelgard: Yeah you really know the shadow black eagles besides Shadow Shez because he left before you did.

*In The Throne Room, Shadow Enbarr, The Shadow Imperial army meets.*

Shadow Edelgard: I never expected we'd have our hands this full after returning from Light Faerghus. Still, we've managed to quell the turmoil and maneuver our way back to Shadow Enbarr.

Shadow Hubert: Due to the valiant efforts of Count Shadow Bergliez and his Light Arianrhod garrison, the Light Kingdom's counteroffensive has hardly put a dent in the western lines. I wager the reinforcements reached them in time.

Shadow Monica: It's a good thing we do not have to maintain a large military presence in Light Leicester. But of course, that was Her Shadow Majesty's plan all along!

Shadow Shez: We We'd be up to our shoulders in trouble if we hadn't settled hostilities with the Light Alliance.

Shadow Dorothea: Do you think people in the Shadow Empire will be all right? I'm worried about the shadow opera company, of course, but I'd also be devastated if anything happened to my friends in the capital.

Shadow Hubert: The end result of all this was the complete expurgation of the Shadow Empire's remaining dissidents. Heh... In a way, we should be thanking them for handing us this opportunity on a gilded platter.

Shadow Linhardt: Shadow Adrestia deserves some stability for a change, so I think it's good that Her Shadow Majesty has total power now. With the opposing nobles wiped out, it's a breath of fresh air after the way things were under the old shadow emperor.

Shadow Dorothea: Shadow Lin! Think about who's here!

Shadow Ferdinand: It is all right, Shadow Dorothea. I have moved on.

Shadow Bernadetta: It's funny, though. I was sure my shadow father would take part in the rebellion, but he just...didn't. I mean, I feel like all he ever did was complain about Her Shadow Majesty, you know? I guess he was so scared of the grey church that he decided to stay holed up in Grey Garreg Mach.

Shadow Petra: What is our next action, Lady Shadow Edelgard? If we are returning to the western front, I will have preparedness.

Shadow Caspar: Fighting your own people sure takes the thrill out of battle. So let's go wallop the Light Kingdom instead and put an end to all this! Who's with me?!

Shadow Ferdinand: All that remains is for Shadow Adrestia to claim victory.

Shadow Edelgard: And along those lines, I wish to present an idea. One last stratagem to ensure that we prevail...

*Shadow Edelgard and Shadow Hubert meet in private after everyone else leaves.*

Shadow Hubert: We were successful in striking down Shadow Kronya at Fort Shadow Merceus. However, Lord Shadow Arundel—which is to say Shadow Thales— remains at large, and any schemes Shadow Solon may be plotting are so much conjecture in the wind. Still, his efforts in Shadow Hrym territory effectively empowered the late Duke Shadow Aegir to stage a coup. Whatever the case, he must have a very good reason for seeking to prevent the Light Kingdom's fall.

Shadow Edelgard: But why would they help the people who are harboring the Grey archbishop? It makes no sense. Unless their aim is simply to prevent the war from ending by any means possible.

Shadow Hubert: We know the Kingdom's court mage, Light Cornelia, is connected to shadow those who slither in the dark. They may have planted other associates in Light Faerghus as well. If they already have the light king's court dancing on strings, it stands to reason they would focus their attention on obstructing the Empire.

Shadow Edelgard: I agree the theory hangs together—but does that mean we should expect more interference?

Shadow Hubert: We should, Your Shadow Majesty. Though I would at least like to think they no longer have anyone left who can act brazenly in the open.

Shadow Edelgard: And need we worry about our mercenary friend?

Shadow Hubert: I was under the assumption that they had your implicit trust.

Shadow Edelgard: Absolutely—but not enough to purge all of the doubt from my heart. I once trusted my Shadow uncle, as well as the late Duke Shadow Aegir—and he wasn't even replaced with a doppelganger. People who come in contact with those who shadow slither in the dark are not the same afterward. How am I to trust anyone in a world where such a thing can happen?!

Shadow Hubert: I do not disagree, Your Shadow Majesty.

Shadow Edelgard: Yes, well, we must remain vigilant until the war is over for good and all. Although I wonder if we can rest easy even then…

*Meanwhile, Shez talks to Arval in the Imperial Palace Antechamber.*

Shadow Shez: We still don't really know much about Shadow Solon, Shadow Kronya, and Shadow Thales. I was thinking this would/this'd be a chance to learn about my power, or who you actually are. But oh well.

Shadow Arval: Oh well? Is that all you have to say for yourself?

Shadow Shez: I mean, I'm still curious. But my attention right now is on the battles ahead. And hey, it's not like knowing the truth would change much for you anyway. Even if I am related to those shadow slithering people somehow, it's not like I'd wanna split up with you.

Shadow Arval: That's music to my ears. It's incredible to see just how fast you've matured.

*Meanwhile, at the Light Church that saved Light Ingrid...*

Light Dimitri: *Sigh*

Grey Bileth: Grey Sothis says you can tell her since you love her, right? That is why you have that ring box.

Light Dimitri: Yes. I want her as my queen.

Light Ingrid: *Wakes Up* What do you two mean?

*Light Dimitri And Light Ingrid's Three Houses A Ranked Support Conversation happens, but the battle is replaced with The Truth being revealed, and Light Dimitri Says "My Queen" instead Of "My Knight" showing the ring and she accepts.*

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meta-library-blog · 2 months ago

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In terms of royalty/royal blood, Loki was Jotunheim's future. Even if Laufey would've had another son, Loki was his firstborn and the one residing in the kingdom that had the Casket in its possesion. By taking him from Jotunheim, Odin assured that that future would be under his control, under Asgard's control.

I think his ultimate plan was to let Jotunheim fall apart, to let it deteriorate completely without the Casket's power and with Loki staying in Asgard as the puppet king of Jotunheim. Sending him back would kill him before anything else (his physiology was different, he wouldn't be accepted and therefore killed etc.) and it wouldn't make much sense from a strategical point. We do know, based on Frigga's words (in the pre coronation scene from the script), that the intent was for Loki to be there to provide counsel for Thor would he need it during his rule. Thor would be his king and Loki would be a puppet through which Thor would rule over Jotunheim without it being overly obvious. So that Jotunheim wouldn't gain back its power and Asgard wourld remain the superior realm in the alliance.

The complication there was that Loki was, indeed, the perfect candidate to be an advisor, which made him useless as a puppet king. He possesed intellect far greater than Odin originally anticipated and therefore was not easy to manipulate. He was the one who asked questions (even as a child, he asked about the Jotuns while Thor gave his father what he though he wanted to hear). Loki is a tactician, a skilled diplomat, he's always many steps ahead and doesn't trust right away. Thor, despite everything, obeyed Odin. And when he didn't, Odin knew there was a way of changing that. He knew Loki would see through things which is why he told him about Jotunheim after Loki found out. Which is why he dropped the pretence and became so cold towards him. There was no point in keeping up that facade now that his political tool was no longer of use. He knew the truth. That is why he waited for Loki to let go. A dead son was good for his image as Asgard's grieving king. As the Allfather.

"So I'm no more than another stolen relic, locked up here until you might have use of me?"

I think this referred to his position as the second prince, as the spare heir, and the 'purpose' Odin intended for him. He didn't have much influence compared to his older brother, the crown prince. He was just there to be taken advantage of when useful, just like the other relics in the weapons vault, he was in Asgard so he wouldn't be in Jotunheim; his absence there was Asgard's win. Being part of the royal family separates you naturally. I don't think he was "locked" in the palace as prev commenter theorised, but he didn't have a reason to leave, you have very few actual allies as the prince. You cannot trust everyone because they see your position and the benefit of being in your good favour. That's another part of why his realtionship with Thor was the way it was. He trusted his brother because they shared that experience even if Loki was more aware of the downsides, probably. Thor was more trusting and the epitome of Asgard's ideals so of course he had people around him. He was the future king, of course he had people around him. Additionally, out-of-universe, it can also be taken as subtle foreshadowing of Loki's imprisonment later. He was thrown into the dungeons until Thor needed him.

"I thought we could unite our kingdoms one day. Bring about an alliance, bring about a permanent peace... through you."

How

How?

HOW????????

What did Odin have in mind when he took Loki? How was he going to forge that alliance? Through marriage? Was he going to tell Laufey that the son he thought to be dead this whole time was actually alive and well and living as the second prince of Asgard? And then he'd offer to marry Loki to someone in Jotunheim so he could take Laufey's throne?

Laufey had already rejected Loki as a newborn, why on earth would he want to have his son back especially when he was basically Odin's puppet? And another thing, would the Jotuns accept Loki as their ruler? He's a runt and grew up in Asgard being raised by Odin, a man they no doubt hate with their entire souls, what made Odin think that his plan would work?

Not to mention the fact that Loki himself would probaly go fucking INSANE once he realized that his purpose in life was to be Odin's puppet in that frozen wasteland while Thor was destined to sit on the golden and glorious throne of Asgard

"But those plans no longer matter"

When

When did they stop mattering?

When did Odin realize that what he had in mind when he adopted Loki would never work out? When did he start seeing Loki as his son instead of the political pawn he was initially?

In WML Loki says that Odin didn't like to send him very often in missions throughout the nine realms, I know the book is it's own universe but maybe that's how things were in the movie timeline too, Odin didn't want to have Loki deeply involved in the politics of the nine realms and decided to just confine him to the palace

"So I'm no more than another stolen relic, locked up here until you might have use of me?"

This could indicate that Loki was in fact trapped inside the palace at least to some level, only allowed to leave and travel through the nine realms when Odin approved it unlike Thor who was probably free to come and go as he pleased, so Loki had only the company of his mother (bc he didn't have friends of his own) while being desperate to have his father's attention and approval, desperate to have a chance to prove that he could be just as competent as Thor (if not more) as a ruler and still being treated as some kind of possession instead of a person

This is tragic but so delicious at the same time, and I know this makes more sense for movie Loki bc series Loki is very different from the original canon, I kinda miss the hungry look he had in Thor 1 tho, that boy who was just standing in corners, lonely and rejected, with so many storms inside himself that barely anyone could notice bc he kept them hidden under a facade of calmness and politeness, that stiff posture of someone always living under pressure, the neutral expression in his face and the ocasional picking of the hands that betrayed how nervous he truly was, being silent and only speaking to people when he was spoken to, the layers and more layers of clothing, covering everything from neck to toes, the submissive and kinda fearful look in his eyes whenever his father spoke to him (until of course the Jotunheim incident), the curly hair severely straightened so he could appear more collected and calm, so many things about him fascinate me, I could talk about it for hours...

How I wish we could go back to the 2011-2013 Loki era omg there's so much potential and things to explore there, take me back to those simpler days

#Loki #meta

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esperata · 3 years ago

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I posted 1,526 times in 2021

80 posts created (5%)

1446 posts reblogged (95%)

For every post I created, I reblogged 18.1 posts.

I added 2,904 tags in 2021

#oswald cobblepot - 504 posts

#the penguin - 489 posts

#edward nygma - 449 posts

#the riddler - 419 posts

#riddlebird - 288 posts

#the scarecrow - 172 posts

#nygmobblepot - 172 posts

#jonathan crane - 171 posts

#jervis tetch - 122 posts

#the mad hatter - 118 posts

Longest Tag: 76 characters

#it would be nice to see a batman considerate of his rogues' mental illnesses

My Top Posts in 2021

Lord Penguin, from Batman Ninja

(for those of you who haven’t seen this version yet)

Cold logician and tactician. He waits for the opportune moment to strike.

See the full post

62 notes • Posted 2021-01-18 02:17:26 GMT

Royal Mail Prestige Stamp Book

See the full post

63 notes • Posted 2021-09-28 15:52:12 GMT

So in the tags about Oswald and the multiverse you mention Oswald being Bruce’s equal... superior. And if your willing to share them I’d love to hear more. This is new to me... I’ll admit. But someone else said it recently in something I was watching on the villains and it’s like a light bulb went off and I was like why have I never thought of it that way before.

A chance to talk about Oswald Cobblepot. Don't mind if I do. Seriously though, this premise is one I wish more people appreciated. I've heard many compelling arguments from friends - who I encourage to add to this post with their thoughts - but shall try to convey my understanding concisely here.

Essentially Bruce and Oswald share enough similarities that, with a few tweaks, it should be easy to see how they could have gone down alternative paths and ended up living each other's lives. DC canon being what it is, I am making use of what I feel are the most pertinent details in the following comparisons.

Both the names Wayne and Cobblepot have been portrayed as venerable wealthy families so the boys are both heirs to legacies if not fortunes. Each have a weight of expectation from this to live up to or restore their birthright. Even if you discount the origin story of the Cobblepots, Oswald is still culturally on Bruce's level. He knows how to ingratiate himself and behave in civilised society. And crucially, whatever their past, both are acknowledged to be high profile wealthy citizens.

Bruce has used his money to fund his life as a vigilante, acting outside the bounds of the law. Oswald has established his criminal empire and legitimate fronts that allow him to stay on the line as far as the GCPD are concerned. Neither feel bound by the letter of the law. Both will invest their money in worthy causes, although what they consider worthy differs. The Wayne name adorns many philanthropist projects while its known for other criminals to seek aid from the Penguin.

They each want similar goals for Gotham, a smooth running city, free from random crime. Wayne seeks to eliminate crime by dressing as a Bat and beating up those people failed by Arkham on the regular. Cobblepot seeks to control the crime by imposing his own order on everyone. On occasion they cooperate since the worst of the rogues are detrimental to both their ambitions. Penguin generally doesn't want his punters dead and Batman knows he's a valuable resource.

It's interesting to note that each of them are ordinary men. No super powers enhance either of their abilities. What does provide their edge is often their tech and gadgets. Too often people forget that Oswald is actually gifted mechanically speaking. Batman has his batarangs and other bat-prefixed toys while Oswald is known for his many and varied trick umbrellas.

On a lesser note they are also each associated with an animal that defies expectations. A mammal that can fly and a bird that can't. Not significant perhaps but I find it note worthy.

So if they have such similar mental attributes, equal access to funds, compatible life goals and, let's face it, a penchant for the dramatic, what led one to be the villain and the other the hero? This comes down to society's influence and is entirely based upon appearance. Bruce is the archetypal pretty rich boy. Tall, chisel jawed, broad shouldered etc etc. Oswald was not so endowed being shorter than average, overweight and with features regarded as ugly.

This rejection by society based on his looks affected Oswald deeply, leading to his retaliation in the form of excessive care with his sartorial appearance and a desperate need to prove himself their equal. Or better, their superior. Yet he has been smart enough to turn even this slight to his advantage. People underestimate the Penguin. They laugh at the short fat man and in their moment of mirth get shafted. (Or they do when the writers themselves don't also make this mistake) It's another similarity with Bruce in it's way, since he uses the playboy facade to conceal his life as Batman.

So in conclusion, Oswald and Bruce are very much equal opposites in Gotham. The peaks of their particular societies, keeping an eye over everything that goes on in the city and more often than not guiding those events. Penguin is a lynchpin in the criminal world just as Batman is for law enforcement. Without them everything would spiral.

72 notes • Posted 2021-02-06 14:00:04 GMT

tumblr_video

A li’l clip of Penguin grabbing Riddler’s butt. Twice.

85 notes • Posted 2021-03-06 21:56:39 GMT

See the full post

195 notes • Posted 2021-10-12 20:27:29 GMT

Get your Tumblr 2021 Year in Review →

#my 2021 tumblr year in review #your tumblr year in review #riddlebird #the penguin #oswald cobblepot #the riddler #edward nygma

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msilwrites · 4 years ago

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(A 3AM Short Story) - (SHORT 1/2) - The Dark Knight

A/N: Hi guys, I have a lot of drafts I've been editing inside the draft folder of my Tumblr page. Sorry that I have not published them, I'm aware I make a lot of grammar mistakes, therefore, just I want them to be written properly, for it to have a strong narrative voice and can be easily understood.

Nonetheless, here is one of them...

Let me add, I'm actually busy updating my other stories, so do standby for that!

Cast -

'Q' is an Original Character

'K' / Kieran Sorensen - Mads Mikkelsen

WARNING: SEXUAL TENSIONS.... you need cold water!

The Dark Knight

Even before Q was known as 'Q', she was first a trainee under 'K' or Kieran, her commanding officer. However, she didn't expect to work beside him after finishing her training and working for the MI6. Neither did she expect that he was preparing her to take over once he steps down. That he wanted her to succeed him.

It all started when she entered the training programme. He had interviewed her for the first time, whilst holding on to the piece of paper which contained information about her background.

A woman who spent her primary education in Dragon School, and a secondary education at top international school in Shanghai, before graduating tertiary in Cambridge. With these, she could've been considered a 'strong candidate'.

"Privileged..." was his reply, upon reading everything. He clearly wasn't impressed. "You're probably very intelligent, but do you have grit?"

She gulped nervously and was thankful enough that she didn't write anything about her grandfather being an admiral or her father being an officer.

She remembered what he had told her clearly the first time, which is why it was a surprise to her that he considered her as a 'successor'.

Her job was something classified, she was not a field agent, but her duty was akin to that of a chess player, a tactician, a strategist and her chess pieces, were the agents under her command. And the playground was the operations she led and handled. And after a long time, she became good at it.

Throughout the years, she slowly got the hang of it, and finally earned the respect of her colleagues and superiors, specially Keiron, who had eventually become fond of her.

Everything was fine until she received a piece of devastating news.

Q's mother had committed suicide and her sister had a breakdown. At first, she couldn’t believe it. She knew her mother would never do such a thing! Didn’t she just remarry a good man who also happens to be wealthy? and had told her that she is in love with her new husband? That didn’t sound like the jovial mother she had often talked to over the phone. But as the details and truth began to resurface, everything became clearer...

As Q dug deeper for the truth, receiving the suicide note, her mother’s diary, the Private Investigator’s report and her sister’s story, one thing became clear; the cause of her family’s ruin was her mother’s new husband; Vincenzo Rosello.

Much to the family’s dismay, the truth was something painful to learn. Q broke down and cried. She considered dropping everything, just to get to her sister.

Her sister Helene, according to the report given to her by the investigator, was locked up in a private mental institution/ rehab in Mallorca and was given medication that had kept her mind blank every day.

Her grandfather and father were willing to do anything to get Helene rescued. But Q knew that if both her grandfather and father made a move, it will cause a diplomatic problem for the country. It was enough pretext for them that they should not intervene or try anything. Besides, the fact that the information was classified and Vincenzo Rosello was no ordinary man, makes it no easy task for her grandfather and father who holds high positions in the government, compared to her, a 'small fly'. So Q talked her family out of it and took it upon herself to rescue her sister, whatever it took.

At first, Q leaks the story to BBC News and CNN through an agent contact in Madrid, believing that public sympathy and pressure would force the country to intervene. However, Kieron Sorensen had done something, causing the networks to retract the news as a hoax.

Q was angry of course, upon learning of what happened. But she couldn't show it, and couldn't let anyone know that it was her who had leaked the information.

She didn't know what was coming for her until Kieron summoned her to his office.

"Ah, Q, please take a seat," Kieron offers, as she closes the door behind her. She had a feeling he might try to pry something out of her, but whatever it was, she decided that she will not admit to anything.

"What did you call me for?"

"Straightforward as always! Well, do you remember the painting at the museum that we saw?" he starts.

She scratches her head and thought how random the question was. "Which painting?"

"In front of the painting where I first handed you your badge," he said.

She suddenly remembered the event years ago, when he had welcomed her officially to the agency, by giving her a gun and badge inside a box, at a gallery, right in front of a painting. It looked more like a transaction between two people instead of a 'welcome' due to its secret, unnoticeable nature.

"Yes... what about it?"

"What was the painting again?" he asked.

"A knight and a lady," was her answer.

"A yes! 'A knight and his lady'! remember what I told you that time?"

"That there is no knight in shining armour to the rescue, that you are your own knight..." she casually mentions.

"And?" asking her to continue.

"That we should not aspire to be white knight, but a 'dark knights'" she rolls her eyes, thinking that this was a waste of time. "If there is anything else, I would like to go. I have a lot more paperwork to do,"

Kieron smiled " I am glad you remember, what is this then?" he pushes a paper towards her, containing the report that was leaked to the networks.

" I do not know what is this about?" she feigns ignorance.

His handsome face twists into a cynical smile. "Oh Q, isn't that your sister in the news?"

"Yes, I can see that, but we have been estranged ever since our parents divorced..." she lied. In fact, she almost communicated with them every day.

"I see..." Kieron folds his hands and takes a long hard look at her, which made her uncomfortable, but she was not going to give anything away. "I just want to remind you not to play the 'Dark Knight' in this situation. I'm not saying it was you who did this but consider the position your family would be in."

"Is that a threat, Director?" she clenched her teeth.

"No, it's a warning..." was his response, followed by a handsome smile, that she had so wanted to punch.

"Duly noted..." was her resigned response.

"I'm glad you understand, we have to always choose and preserve the greater good..."

"Greater good? so you want me to abandon my sister?" her voice was strained, as anger began to rise within her.

"I never said that... What I'm saying is, incidents like this can be considered as something against the agency and the government "

"I am aware of that and don't need you to remind me..." was her curt reply.

"I will not tolerate insubordination, and I will not back you up or rescue you if you continue this," he adds.

"I did not break any rules..." was her firm response, bent on not admitting anything.

" If that is so, you are to take a two-week compassionate leave,"

"I don't need it, I have a lot of work to do," she says, brushing it off.

"It's not a request, it's an order..." was his stern reply. "You're not into step into the office within those two weeks,"

"You can't do that?! I have a lot of work to do, and people who depend on me," she insists. She knew the moment she leaves the office, she will be unable to access some resources needed to rescue her sister.

"That's all taken care of," he said nonchalantly.

She felt her plans fall apart. It was obvious why Kieron was doing this. And that is to prevent her from taking any action, and this made her extremely frustrated.

" You have 2 days to finish whatever you can. After that, surrender your access card and gun before you go..." he adds, which finally broke the camel's back.

In a fit of anger, Q bolts out of her seat and attacks Kieran, pulling his arm forward, and punches his face the moment she had close the distance, which caught him off guard.

But a seasoned combatant like Kieron had recovered quickly and caught her body, swung her into his back and slammed her hard on the table.

Q, flinched in pain, but was not one to give up, countered his attack by trying to lock his arm, forcing him into submission. However, he was able to free himself from it and back throws her, causing her to land on the nearby couch with a loud thud.

But before she could even recover, Kieron had already gone on top of her and held both her wrist above her head, pinning her down the couch in a compromising position.

He leans close to her face and whispers to her ears, "You do that again, I will not be as merciful..."

She felt goosebumps on her neck with what he did. It was no mistake, she was turned on. It was also not a big help that Kieron is a handsome man. She did not want to look at him in the eye, or the feelings that she had withheld inside her, for him, all these years, might just spill...

He drags her back up and buttons the top part of her shirt, which she had not noticed was open. Some of the buttons were gone due to the physical altercation that had happened between them earlier. Her face felt warm as she looked away, as the gesture felt sensual and intimate. A significant other is supposed to do these things, not your boss! And certainly not after a fight!

He stilled her and gently tilted her chin to meet up his gaze. For a moment she was lost in his citrine eyes.

"Don't cause trouble, I would hate to lose you..." he whispered, and it felt more of a warning. "Go..." he turns around and walks back to his table, waving her off.

"Damn him..." she muttered under her breath as she went back to her small office. She had only two days to do her work, in addition to getting whatever resources she needs to rescue her sister. If Kieron thought this setback will discourage her, then he is wrong.

**********

After two days of work, the moment she had reached home, she had finally decided to go off-grid. She knew the moment she had left the agency, Kieron would've probably put her under watch list.

Pushing a heavy bookshelf on the side, the self glided easily despite its weight, revealing a small secret room with a vault inside her apartment. On one part of the shelf, was two fake passports and identity cards she had procured over the years, on one part was a thick clipping of the currency 'Euros'. She takes them and throws packs into her bag, before coming back for the vault, and taking another handphone.

She leaves her handphone on the bedside table and didn't plan on taking it with her to Spain. Kieron surely would use it to track her and she couldn't risk anyone knowing her plans and ruin them.

But before leaving, she messages her father;

'Perseus is coming for Andromeda'

**********

Mallorca, Spain

Q was not surprised that it was raining hard the moment she arrived at Mallorca. It was after one of their coldest seasons.

She wasted no time and immediately embraced her new identity, Geórgia Santos, a woman from Terrassa who will work as the cleaner at the psychiatric hospital where her sister, Helene is confined.

She eventually took on her role well, and immediately gained the respect of the medical staff within a few days of working as a cleaner. She even gained information who are some of the patients, through gossip with the nurses.

By the end of the week, she learned that the forbidden room she wasn't allowed to enter was the same room Helene is solely confined in. Not only because it was guarded. Moreover, thrice a week, a man comes to visit the room and stays there for almost a whole day, and he would ask the staff about his 'prisoner' in the room.

Upon learning the whole truth, she had sneaked in one night into her sister's room and found her in a state any family member would not like to see. Her informer was right, Helene was kept mentally blank every day. She had eventually bribed the nurse and the doctor assigned in Helene's room for information and their silence. According to the nurse she had bribed for information, the ‘stepfather’ would often visit Helene and stay at her quarters for a ‘very long time'.

Flabbergasted, Q calls out the nurse for not doing anything. But the nurse reasons that the ‘stepfather’ is a powerful man and they themselves were afraid to go against him. When she made it known that she wanted to take Helene from the institution and bring her back to England, the nurse and the doctor, though feeling guilty, advised her not to, as Vicenzo Rosello will not allow it. It will put the whole staff in jeopardy.

When she promised a way out, and a way to cripple Vicenzo, so that he would not misdirect his anger. Both of them immediately agreed and cooperated.

"Saint George, has seen the dragon" she sends another cryptic message to her father. What it actually meant is that she had seen Vicenzo.

The messaging window indicated 'typing' for a long time. She knew her father was holding back the anger, he was surely thinking of giving an order to kill. But no, he seems to have thought it through.

"Saint George should not slay the dragon," was his response followed by "Yet...".

Q chuckled upon receiving the message. Oh, the many ways they plan to hurt Vicenzo. After all, killing him immediately is an easy way out. They should torment him every chance they get, after what happened to her mother and Helene.

Unbeknownst to the agency, within her two last days before her compassionate leave. She had forged a directive signed by the agency's head to begin "Operation Persues" a rescue mission that is spearheaded by the SAS that she had developed within a short amount of time as 'Plan B" for her own attempt to rescue her sister.

On the night of the extraction, the moment the power was cut, Q hurriedly rushed to the floor where her sister was confined. The guards were out so she was able to easily enter her room.

When she entered Helene's room, she found her sleeping soundly in the dark, much to her relief. She checks her watch to see how much time she has. She could carry her sister to the nearby coastline herself where a boat is supposedly waiting for them, or wait for the soldiers she assigned to guide them there.

Her plan was to get Helene to Madrid and have her transported via car (as she was not mentally stable) to the south of France where their grandfather was waiting for them.

She felt her hands grow cold, as the clock ticks. The guards will be back any time now, and she has no gun to neutralize them if it comes into an altercation.

Suddenly, there was a sharp sound of a suppressor, followed by a loud thud on the floor. There was a knock on the door before it opened to reveal an imposing figure standing in the door frame, dressed in black night ops camouflage, with a large rifle. A normal person would probably be scared if they see him. After all, he looked like the stuff of 'nightmares' specially with his face covered, and his eyes were night-vision lenses that made him look like a multi-eyed monster.

"She's not stable," she whispers to the man. " I'm afraid of her waking up, and causing a commotion. "

The man nodded in understanding, before signalling another soldier outside of the room to come in.

The other soldier takes out a syringe containing a sedative to calm Helene down, in case she wakes up. In any other situation, Q would be fine, doing it to the target. She had carried out a lot of operation that needed this course of action. But now that they're doing it to her sister, she felt a little conflicted.

Another soldier enters the room and carries Helene out carefully. The first soldier, who first entered the room pulls out a gun from one of his armour's holsters and hands it to her.

"Thank you," she says softly, glad that he was considerate enough to give her a weapon to defend herself.

In a few minutes time, the power will come back, they needed to get to the nearby coastline by foot, as the sound of the car can attract attention this late at night, at a quiet place like this.

The smell of the incoming rain was obvious to her, the moment they stepped out of the hospital, they needed to get to the boat before the rain falls. There were 5 soldiers, and the boat can only carry 5 people, which meant two should stay ashore, and leave in another way.

"I will see you at Bordeaux, give her to the Admiral as instructed..." she says, referring to her grandfather, as she instructs the soldiers and they respond with a nod. She trusted them enough to carry their duty. Moreover, it wasn't the first time working with the SAS.

She watched as the boat left the shore, and turned away once she can no longer see them in the distance.

Turning her attention back to the soldier who stayed behind with her, she realized that it was the same person who first entered the room earlier and passed her a gun. Though she could not see his face like the rest of them, it was his aura that separates him from his team. He seemed like a very seasoned soldier and she wouldn't be surprised if he was, as her guest and observations were often right.

"Thank you for staying behind, I do not know if you have a plan B, but I'll take care of us here, from now on. And we'll be back in London before you know it!" she tries to convince him, but he did not respond and just stared at her. She sighed in resignation and asks him to follow her, as the rain began to fall.

Not far from the hospital was a small cabin she had rented as her temporary quarters.

"Come in..." She opens the door and holds it open for him.

The moment they entered the house, he was met with countless papers, photographs, stuck on a corkboard, and a few, small spy tech, including a laptop. The rest, was just a small kitchen, a small fireplace, bathroom, a queen-size bed, and a small couch, nothing more, nothing less. The small house looked like an operational briefing room, instead of living quarters.

"I'm sorry about the mess, I'll burn them once we leave, go make yourself at home. You must be tired so you can take my bed and I won't mind it, I'll sleep on the couch" she uttered mindlessly, as she started packing some of the equipment for more space. "Besides, I need to forge a few papers here and there to get us out of here, I'll buy you new clothes tomorrow too," she adds, turning towards him, still without a response.

"So, uhh... I don't plan on seeing you in the raw, so... just cover yourself up with a blanket" she sighed, though she meant well, not wanting him to stay in his damp clothes, she felt sorry for the guy. He probably thinks she's a weird pervert now for saying that carelessly. "Sorry, I came unprepared for this part. I didn't know it will rain..." she reasons.

The man finally sits down on the couch and makes himself comfortable, and began slowly dismantling his rifle.

She heaved another sigh, before remembering the gun he has handed her earlier on. "Ah yes, I almost forgot, here's your gun, I-" she paused for a moment and disarmed it, removing the silencer and the bullets and then she felt a certain texture on one side of the gun and saw an engraved quote;

'This is a tool, I am the weapon'

There was no mistake, this was her gun that the agency confiscated before she left for her 2 weeks leave. How did a special ops soldier end up having it?

She looked at him confused. "H-How did you?"

The man's answer was silence and then he took off his night visions goggles and his mask, only to reveal Kieran, underneath the camo.

"Shit..." she muttered under her breath, as alarms started ringing inside her head. This operation was unsanctioned, to begin with, and the only way she was able to carry it was by using her and her father's money, forging signatures for approval and unprofessionally using the companies resources to carry out the rest, which she knew she had distorted the evidence so that they will not find out.

"How... how did you-?" she was lost for words.

"You made a small blunder... that's how I found out..." he says sternly, as he slowly approached her, his expression was cold. She knew what was coming. He was going to kill her in cold blood. It didn't matter if she was his prodigy and that they've been colleagues for a decade, or that he was fond of her. Kieran was first and always a cold-blooded assassin/operative, even before he became the division head. She heard the stories, and she witnessed how cold and cruel he could be. Nor does he take betrayal well. And this unsanctioned operation is considered betrayal in the agency's eyes, and his. And what happens when one commits 'insubordination? if lucky they can get away with getting court-martialed if not, they are 'neutralized'.

Unfortunately, she will be getting the latter.

But she didn't want to die. She wanted to reunite with her family, to finally be there for Helene, after years apart. To finally mourn her mother properly. She didn't want her family to have another person to mourn for. She wants to live, and she will fight to live.

Wasting no time, she throws the gun at his face, as she didn't have enough time to re-assemble everything.

"Fuck..." Kieran cursed under his breath when the heavy metal hits his chests and was followed by the silencer before she made a run for it outside.

*****

The backwoods was dark, and she almost tumbled down, running. Especially now that it rained heavily, the place was slippery. This setback was certainly something she didn't expect. She needed to gather her thoughts and think of a plan C. She did remember that she had kept backup 'necessities' in a locker at the port. She just needed to get there safely and get Kieron off her trail.

However, before she could make her next move. A pair of strong arms wrap around her waist, swung her to his shoulders, and then throws her back down into the ground.

"That's for earlier..." Kieran mentions as he circled around her.

"This is not fair, I thought you were a gentleman!" she says, in spite of the situation.

"I am... I haven't injured you yet, haven't I?" was his playful remark. "Get up!"

She struggled to get up and glared at him. " You think this is a game?"

"And you thought I wasn't serious when I warned you? Remember, every action has a consequence and this is yours..."

She finally gets up and rushes forward to attack him. He immediately blocks her fist, but she kicks his knees, breaking his stance.

He quickly recovers and prepares for an attack, but she had jumped at him, wrapping her legs around his waist, and using the force of her momentum to throw him back down to the ground. She quickly grabs his back leg and twists it.

Quickly wrapping her legs around his, she cranks it the wrong way, pulling it forward, hyperextending it, in an attempt to dislocate and cripple him.

He screams in pain, as she put him into a kneebar submission. However, he quickly counters her move by kicking the back of her knee with his free leg and freeing his other leg out in the process.

Unable to continue the kneebar, Kieron immediately grapples with her once he was free. But she was too quick and got away quickly.

"Not bad..." he laughs.

She tried to catch her breath and glared back at him. She rather escapes than prolong this fight. Fighting against a veteran like Kieron is futile. However, before she could make a run for it, he moves forwards and quickly strikes her in the gut, causing her to lose air and then consciousness.

**********

It was 4 am according to her clock when she gained consciousness once again and found herself with her arms tied up to the bedpost.

The only thing that serves light in the room was the small fireplace, and Kieron was in front of it smoking a cigarette, with nothing but a blanket on, wrapped around his waist.

If this was any other situation, this was a wet dream come true. She had always been curious about the body underneath those sharp custom made, Saville-Row suits and smart apparel he wore to work. He was like those silver fox models that were displayed in GQ and not once did she see him undone and raw like this. Heck, he looked good even when doing violent interrogations.

His body was muscularly lean and well-toned, with scars here and there. In short words, he's damn hot.

She sighs and takes in the sight before her. It was probably the last thing she would see and remember him for before he ends her life.

"Like what you see?" he teased.

"Put a shirt on... you're ugly..." was her rude response.

He laughs out loud and stares at her.

"Just kill me..." she pleads. She was not willing to go through torture and interrogation, and she knew that was coming next.

He gets up and seats down on the side of the bed. "But I'm not done with you yet...." he whispers.

" We can be done in a minute, I will tell you everything. I admit to it. I forged all your signatures for approval, used the agencies resources to gather information and used my own savings to fund this operation. That is all... now... do what you have to do..." she says in resignation. "And do it quick, I don't want it to be painful" she adds.

He takes out a knife and she closes her eyes shut, preparing for what's next. However, to her surprise, Kieran cuts of the rope binding her arms instead, before walking away and sitting back down in front of the fireplace.

"Kieron..." she calls his name whilst rubbing the lacerations on her wrist.

"You're a fool, you know?... I've advised you many times to not do this..."

"The agency will..." she began but he quickly cut her off.

"They're not aware, I've cleaned it up for you..." was his simple response.

"Why-why? you said...-"

"I'm not that heartless that you and others make me out to be..." he says nonchalantly, waving it off. "You're not trained as a covert agent... do you know how worried I was when I found out?"

"Who are you to care? we're nothing but colleagues and your nothing but the heartless department director who wants results! I am well aware that I am just your pawn!" She shook her head. Kieron Sorenson was too cold to even care. " Please save me the pretence..."

He glares back at her and gets back up to approach her. Closing in the distance like a predatory animal and she was his prey.

"Kieron... I-" before she could say anything, he crushed his mouth against hers and much to his surprise, she did not protest or struggle and welcomed it wholeheartedly. Returning the kiss with equal intensity.

He tried in vain to slow down and pull away for them to catch their breath. Only to find her looking back at him with longing eyes.

"Since when?" she asked. Of course, she was confused by this sudden 'confession'. She may admit that she does have a secret crush on the cold-blooded director. But not once did she expect that he had affection for her too.

"The museum..." he whispers huskily, referring to the time he had welcomed her to the agency. She looked so beautiful that day, her head held high, upon proving how wrong he was about her, as she sat beside him in front of the painting. " I wanted to kiss that witty mouth of yours... but that's just unprofessional..."

"You're being unprofessional now..." she remarks.

"I don't give a damn..." he says and tucks a strand of her hair behind her ear.

A/N: I think I might have made some grammatical errors. So I'd do soft editing. I'll write Part 2 (SMUT!!!) next after this.

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semirahrose · 8 years ago

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I really disliked that Sam, apparently, is no longer Lucifer's true vessel. It really bothers me, and it's such a mess up of canon. I understand that Lucifer now has a vessel that will hold him, but Sam was MADE for him. Sam's entire life was controlled for the purpose of being Lucifer's vessel. The dismissal of this fact makes it seem like Sam's pain was for nothing. Mark P is great as Lucifer and I don't really want Sam to be possessed again, but the whole thing annoys me.

That makes perfect sense, Anon!

At first, it really bothered me, too, but I think it makes perfect sense with Lucifer’s characterization. Sam still is Lucifer’s true vessel and comes from a line that was destined to contain the archangels, but… apparently Crowley found a way around that. The way the writers implied it was so easy to make a vessel perfect for Lucifer annoys me and strikes me as really sloppy writing, but Lucifer’s reaction is perfectly in-character.

Lucifer is a tactician and a powerful manipulator. He knows exactly which words will bring people to their knees, knows how to poke and wheedle and make people do what he wants while believing it was their own idea. He knows how to exploit weaknesses. (See his consistent pattern of coming to vessels in the form of their dead loved ones.)

And Sam? In season 5, Sam was a twisted-up ball of self-loathing and desperation. Lucifer thought he had Sam in the palm of his hand. Over and over, he referred to Sam’s eventual defeat as inevitable. Lucifer believed in his destiny absolutely. He was so very sure Sam would give in. And Sam did. However, he also did something that shook Lucifer up: he resisted.

Not only did he resist, he prevailed. He bested Lucifer and sent him back to the Cage.

And that brought out a different side of Lucifer. No longer was he eternally patient and self-assured, because he could no longer tell himself that everything would turn out as it was destined to. A human overcame the archangel Lucifer. Lucifer’s worldview was tipped on its head. He was angry and petty and unpredictable.

But he still summoned that pride and charisma and silver tongue to try to tear Sam down in 11.10. He got into Sam’s head and preyed on his guilt and shame. He told Sam he was too weak.

And Sam Fucking Winchester

said

NO.

Again. (And again, just for good measure.)

And then, in season 12, Sam sent Lucifer right back to Hell—would have sent him back to the Cage, even, if not for Crowley’s tinkering.

Well, Lucifer is powerful and prideful, and it is entirely in character that he would stay as far from Sam as he possibly could: because Sam has bested him in every one of their encounters. Lucifer threw his best at Sam and lost. So Lucifer got up, brushed himself off, and avoided any reminders of his failure—reminders that a mere human, no matter how massive his destiny, could overcome him. He avoided Sam.

It makes perfect sense that Lucifer would jump at any other vessel that could hold him. The writing that led up to Lucifer having a worthy vessel? Shaky at best. Lucifer’s reaction, though, and his brutal mockery of Sam every chance he got? A perfectly understandable attempt to regain control (or the illusion of it).

#thanks for the message and sorry for rambling! i really appreciate your thoughts anon! ♥#spnsamwinchester #lucifer #spn meta #bittersamgirlclub #my stuff #my meta #ish?#sam and lucifer #sam and hell #sam and choice #this is why i love him #anonymous #semirah replies #sam appreciation

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tumblingxelian · 6 months ago

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Hi @sruthi9018, I hope you don't mind me sharing these amazing tags!

#RWBY #yeah this is great it outlines a lot of why I don't really like Taiyang too #I was good with him until his messed up ''joke'' to Yang in V4 #nowhere else has that sort of ''humour'' been used and Port and Oobleck were rightfully horrified at hearing that #like.. it might be just how it is between Yang and Tai but idk maybe dont use that really traumatic incident to joke #about how your daughter lost braincells. . #like we have seen how that incident traumatized her in relation to Blake and Adam and she was already questioning her sanity so like.. #I would imagine that it only contributes to Yang not valuing herself and her own thoughts and smarts and decision making skills #because she can't trust her own brain and memories and just herself in general since she's the ''reckless and thoughtless brawler'' #nevermind that she's one of the smartest characters in the show both technically and emotionally #sorry I just have a lot of feelings on this

Cos yes, I too was deeply unimpressed by his humor. I always felt the need to note that if that is "Just the way it is between them" then its clearly a one way street given Yang doesn't fire back about his inability to keep a wife or something equally hurtful.

There is also the fact she only shifted into laughing about it after Oobleck dropped his cup, as if reminding her, "Oh shit, people, break the tension!"

As it is, we have seen that kind of "Humor" used by one person in one relationship to moderately good effect. It was Qrow talking to Yang in volume 3.

I didn't like it at the time but its since been highlighted that despite his sharp tongued delivery Yang was actually quite comfortable confiding her concerns about her mental state with him & was not seemingly shocked or upset by his phrasing the way she was with Tai.

This indicates a level of familiarity and trust, one further emphasized by Yang being a lot more freewheeling with the snarky disrespect with him earlier in the volume. Which sets up as this actually being their dynamic as opposed to a one way street where Tai can just shout insults when Yang disagrees with him & she laughs before giving him what he wants.

Also in regards to other feedback we have, @gimme-tea-bitch with:

Yup yup yup! many reasons here why i kinda hate tai i mean i get his issues and hes a complicated character but the way he treats Yang is so biased and bullshit and he's a shitty father but it all makes me love Yang even more Yang is so far ahead of Tai even at what is her lowest point he's trying to “teach” her stuff she long ago figured out and it's coincidently a perfect example of their relationship because tai wasnt there not for yang i forget who made this post that i think explains it perfectly Tai's advice is predicated on who he thinks yang is. Because he wasnt there to actually see yang grow if he had been there for her he wouldve known how not just physically strong she is but the sheer emotional resilience she has The intelligence she has always had and honed maybe shes not a tactician like ruby but it shows in the vytal festival how she as a freshman is out playing and defeating people older than her left and right. Even someone like mercury who is shown to be a real threat yes he was probably holding back somewhat to not blow his cover but she still bodies him yang even then is a frankly incredible fighter way above her peers

Gonna zero in on the italicized stuff because, yes, so much this.

Yang has highlighted before now that Tai was not necessarily the most checked in parent. People like to claim that after the Beowolf incident he miraculously got better but we never actually got confirmation of that. Especially as it was Qrow who saved them.

So while we know he wasn't 100% gone, we don't know how much he did, especially that was like, serious, hard yards parenting and not easy fun stuff like buying a treat or sending a dog in the mail.

This is especially important because volume 5 has Yang outright state how much of the burden of keeping the family together fell on her shoulders & how much this damaged her. So its clear his was an ongoing and rather drawn out problem, not just a case of a few weeks.

Which ties into him not really knowing Yang as well as he thinks he does. Further supported y Ruby's line from volume 9, regarding who raised her, IE, Yang.

The show has no reason to do stuff like this then turn around in V10 & say "Actually he was the bestest dad to ever dad, roast them kids with your scathing 'critique' Tai!"

Like, it would literally be the show ignoring its own foreshadowing to call Yang & Ruby liars for no reason, while ignoring its recurring themes.

It feels especially pertinant to also note that Qrow's drinking was handled much the same.

IE, he's introduced with this not great, very rough habit, but hey its fun, people are making jokes, he's making jokes, his nieces love him, its great...

Then V5 comes in with Ruby clearly being used to & unhappy with a drunk off his ass Qrow being carted home by a stranger. Followed up with V6 making it clear the "Functional" part of "Functional alcoholic" is not a real thing. That both Yang & Ruby are clearly used to & impacted by this & it explicitly putting the cast in danger & being something Qrow needs to overcome.

Like, this is not a new thematic trend for the writers, ya know?

As to Mercury, I actually don't think he was holding back.

The thing with their plan is it works just as well if Yang loses and he goes up t shake her hand then she shoots him. & while skilled, Mercury's never been presented as threatening in a one on one fight as even Adam was.

Especially given CRWBY don't really go for "Hurting someone makes them stronger, traumatic training is best training, be edgy to be strong."

If anything, stuff like that usually undermines a characters strength. Hence Yang demonstrating to Blake how much she needed rest, rather than to obsessively pursue her goals. Or how Ren suppressing all of his issues, or Jaune falling back on bigger swords & anger serve to weaken them over helping them.

At the end of the day, Mercury may have been told his father training was to make him stronger. But really it was just an abusive means of control.

At least that's my take.

A Necessary Post - Yang, Taiyang & Seeing Red

I debated this being a message or a note or a reblog, but ultimately this warranted an essay. Because a hatred of nuance is not even remotely the reason why Tai is critiqued as a teacher or father.

With that fact in mind, let's begin:

During RWBY Volume 4, Episode 9: Two Steps Forward, Two Steps Back Taiyang has a great deal of critical feedback for Yang regarding her fighting style, personality & Semblance.

The issue is that Tai's words and advice when compared to what we saw on screen before & afterwards demonstrate he does not understand how it works or how she used it.

So here for your reading pleasure if a more or less line by line breakdown of Tai's advice and why I don't feel it holds up & more to the point, why I don't believe Yang utilized it.

Taiyang: Do you realize that you used your Semblance to win every fight after the qualifiers?

Yang rightfully points out that her using Burn is no different than anyone else using their Semblances. I would add that Yang's Semblance only serves to enhance her already present abilities with damage taken in a fight. So her not using it would be stupidly holding back extra energy for no reason.

Tai's critique also fails to register that when using her Semblance to take out FNKI, Yang specifically disrupted the ground so Neon could not skate effectively & used the boost in power to turn Flynt's own weapon against him.

I will be addressing Mercury further down but she used it effectively and intellectually here and to great effect.

What's more, every other fights fighting style, weapons or both were literally built around their Semblances. Yang's threat level remains fairly consistent without her Semblance, all three of these other characters take a huge dip.

Taiyang: Because not everyone else's is basically a temper tantrum.

Ignoring that calling the manifestation of Yang's soul a temper tantrum is another in a long line if dickish things Tai says to Yang. Her Semblance literally does not work that way.

Her anger has jack and shit to do with it, this has been explained & demonstrated time and time again. Yang only gets a power boost when she's been injured, the fact she tends to be angry when using it is because being hurt sucks and she's usually in an intense fight. When the fight is going well and she still gets to use it she's not angry, as seen with a pleased smirk here:

So as before, Tai's critique is bereft of any merit, Yang's Semblance does not work that way.

Taiyang: I'm serious! Once you take damage, you can dish it back twice as hard, but that doesn't make you invincible!

Cite a time Yang thought she was invincible, cite it provably that Yang thought, said or indicated that she felt she was invincible. You can't because Yang never indicated as such this is something Tai is assuming about her at best.

& no her jumping in the Nevermore's mouth is not an example because she was not using her Semblance, did not take damage, it was a very effective strategy & seemingly either part of the plan, or was so easily understood that it could be safely and reliably worked into the plan. She wasn't using her Semblance here but finding evidence of risky behavior was hard, especially with her Semblance, go figure.

In fact every time Yang used her Semblance she did so only because someone landed a blow, which just happens in fights sometimes.

Taiyang: It's great when you're in a bind, but what happens if you miss? What happens if they're stronger? What then? Now you're just weak and tired!

We know what happens when Yang misses, she can swing again!

After the first blow on the Paladin she missed & needed help to catch it, her missing had zero impact on her Semblances.

As to what happens if they are stronger, um, she loses, that sometimes happens in fights. Its not something Yang can do anything about by holding back on extra strength. Not to quote Qrow but sometimes bad things happen. Other characters losing to stronger opponents don't get given this kind of diatribe's because its pointedly obvious that there was nothing to be done about it.

& on the final piece, she was very pointedly not weak and tired after using it. The only times she has been shown to be is when she was extremely low on Aura regardless in which cases not using her Semblance is a death sentence.

So again, we've established Tai's critique comes from nowhere & his understanding of her Semblance is nonexistent.

Taiyang: But you gotta keep your emotions in check. Keep a level head, and think before you act. Your Semblance is a great fallback, but you can't let yourself rely on it.

This is so painfully unfair it hurts.

No other character gets this kind of shit for expressing emotions in combat. In fact we see characters expressing emotions in battle all the time. Nor has she stopped displaying emotions in combat:

I already outlined how in all two of the Yang fights Tai actually witnessed she used strategy and retained excellent combat form. So again, baseless claims from Tai.

What's more, Yang primarily does use her Semblance as a fallback rather than rely on it in these fights. She only whipped it out against Mercury when he'd unleashed his seeming kill move on her and was confident he'd won.

Not using it here would be dumb and make no sense.

Yang doesn't rely on it to save her, she deploys it when it makes sense to & she has the energy or the need. This is more than we see from many characters.

Taiyang: It won't always save you. Obviously.

So now he is critiquing her for a fight he didn't even witness & knows jack shit about. So let's break this down once again:

Yang has spent the last 24 hours questions her sanity.

Yang's new home (Her words) is burning down.

Yang's sister is missing in all this chaos.

Then Yang's partner gets fucking stabbed, and the guy who did it is standing between them with a sword & gun, with fire all over Grimm all around.

Anything Yang can do he can counter, she tries to go around he only has to pivot. If she tries to fire from long range she might hit Blake. She tries an earth shock wave, she launches Blake into the fire.

She quite literally had no others options & zero time to try anything else because he can just shoot or stab Blake whenever he wants.

Taiyang: You definitely have your mom's stubbornness.

This, this right here is where all this is actually coming from. Tai is once again projecting Raven onto Yang despite them frankly having almost nothing in common.

With most of Yang's visible personality tells being inherited from Summer, such as the mother daughter shoulder check of V9. Thanks to chittychittyyangyang for the GIFs

Or as outlined in some songs with Yang's side of the lyrics explicitly citing how she is trying to fill the Summer shaped void in their lives.

Like the smell of a rose on a summer's day, I will be there to take all your fears away.

Taiyang: Your mother was... a complicated woman. Like everybody, she had her faults, but those faults are what tore our team apart. And, it did a real number on our family.

Tai blames Raven for tearing their team apart. Save that by all accounts, barring her absence things seemed to be going fine. Qrow seemed to be present in their lives, Tai looked happy, the girls were happy & Summer at least seemed happy though we know she was covering up a lot of dread.

Keep in mind Tai is projecting Raven, the woman he blames for destroying the team and damaging the family onto his daughter who literally kept the family together after Summer died. Yang's established this, Ruby has established this, its canon.

Yang: I had to pick up the pieces. I had to keep things together. Alone. (pause) Weiss, if you have something to say, then say it. Ruby: If you thought we wouldn’t come for you, then you must’ve forgotten who raised me.

Tai was not the one holding that home or family together. Unless you think the writers are gonna randomly swerve & say both Yang & Ruby are big whiny liars for some utterly nonsensical reasons. So no, I don't take him seriously as a narrator or critique of Yang, I have no reason to.

But let's push on, because I'm not done.

Taiyang: You both act like the easiest way to tackle an obstacle is through it. (pointing at Zwei) That strength is all that matters in a fight.

Ah yes, Raven, the woman famously known for thinking the easiest way to deal with an obstacles is to tackle it head on. That's why she spent years adorning herself in a Grimm helmet that hid her eyes & raised a False Maiden to serve as her body double.

A woman so inclined to rely on her own raw strength that when she was ambushed by Salem's forces she decided to trick them into an ambush.

Then when fighting Cinder and was at a disadvantage she freezes her in place while making Cinder think she is going on the offensive leaving her to be crushed by Stalactites & also utilized mind games to distract her & deal the finishing blow... Cos she only relies on strength.

As to his final piece of advice I already address it up above, there was no way around Adam, the situation was fucked from the start.

Saying it was Yang's fault she was dismembered is no more than victim blaming, I stood by that in Volume 3 to to this day & beyond.

Taiyang: But if you just take a second look, then maybe you see... (walking toward her, stepping around Zwei) there's a way around as well.

But let's actually look at Seeing Red & if Yang listened to Tai's advice or if she not only ignored it but did the opposite of what he ordered.

Let's see she goes in with open aggression & emotions, and also takes many blows rather than going 'around' them somehow.

Yang, as if she were 'indestructible' outright tanks a massively charged up Aura beam for the purpose of increasing her strength.

Then burns through all of her Aura & Semblance energies delivering one direct blow, relying on it to save her & leaving her weak & tired.

Or in other words, she:

Yang didn't miss, but we know that isn't a real issue anyway.

Yang used her Semblance to 'win' the fight & very much did rely on it to save her.

Yang expressed anger & many other emotions in the battle & still continues to does so.

Yang willingly took huge risks that involved her being able to take tons of damage rather than go "Around" the problem.

Yang knew Adam was likely stronger given it was 2 V1 but relied on her Semblance to get her out of that bind and she was in fact left weak and tired.

This is also the first time she has done several of these things, or otherwise demonstrated these traits, such as being left weak and tired or willingly tanking big attacks rather than just being hit by surprise or due to being overwhelmed.

I don't take Tai's advice seriously because none of it was accurate or aligned with the Semblance we saw in action or had described to us.

I don't trust Tai's opinion on Yang because his take on her is explicitly informed by Raven & not the Yang we spent four & then five more volumes getting to know.

I don't take Tai's words over Yang's, Ruby's or what we see on screen because Tai is at best a secondary or minor character & a recurring theme in RWBY is the failure of older generations.

These failures are not just in the past but how they have been consistently failing the next generation as the story is being told. There is zero reason to think Tai is some magic exception to this narrative trend when much more well explored characters like Maria, Qrow, Ozpin, Ironwood, Raven, and hell, Summer Rose are not.

& that is my stance on that, thanks for tuning in!

#Did not expect paste without formatting to bring about the changes it did XD

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