#mk hypocrisy

[writer-kermit]

Cognitive Bias in the Mortal Kombat Fandom

❥ GENRE: EXPLORATORY ESSAY

❥ COMMISSIONED OR SELF MADE: SELF MADE

❥ W/C: 1,314 (W/O SOURCES)

ঞ SUMMARY: The world is changing, and so is our perception of media. So why are we against these changes? What if everything remained the same from the beginning?

ᰔ KERMIT'S NOTE: I haven't made an exploratory essay since 2022. Mostly because I was afraid of what people might perceive me as. But for a while, I gathered the confidence to start writing more essays based on my personal views. Maybe that will help my writing skills. If you wish for more content like this, feel free to ask! Thanks for reading!

ʚ TAG LIST: @fsfghgee @laismoura-art @loiola00 Thank you for giving me the courage to write again 🫶

ʚ WARNING: Spoilers (maybe???) Racism, Misogyny/Misogynoir, and other graphic content.

Before I start, I just want to say that I only know Mortal Kombat through NetherRealm Studios, so I will be referring to them more than Midway. Now, I’ve only been a fan of Mortal Kombat for two years. I first started getting into it when my friend showed me a video of the Mortal Kombat 9 gameplay in 2022. Since then, I’ve been consuming so much of the MK media. From video games, to animations, to fanfiction, you name it! However, as I delved deeper into the Mortal Kombat rabbit hole, I noticed that there is a strong “bias” within the fandom. Now don’t get me wrong, there isn’t anything bad about having biases. In fact, some biases can improve problem solving skills by identifying different patterns and thinking accordingly to solve the problem. But since I’m talking about Mortal Kombat here, there won’t be as much problem solving. When it comes to NetherRealm Studio's interpretation of Mortal Kombat, fans and critics are quick to have some sort of cognitive bias. 

So why specifically cognitive bias? What even is a cognitive bias? Well, cognitive bias is a systematic thought process caused by the tendency to simplify (or fully reject) information through a filter of personal experience and preferences. But if cognitive bias helps with problem solving, how can it be harmful? In most cases, cognitive bias can contribute to poor and unfair judgment, especially when that judgment can affect the way we consume media. From my experience in Mortal Kombat, fans have the most bias between different characterizations; whether that’d be race, gender, or sexuality, plot, and even the companies itself.

Race/Ethnicity: Black female characters such as Jacqui Briggs, Tanya, Cyrax (MK1) are more prominent to be discriminated against based on their appearance, motives, and depiction throughout the MK series. Unfortunately, this isn’t just a Mortal Kombat problem. In fact, black women in different media are heavily underrepresented and often looked down upon. In the scholar work “Art Imitates Life: The Representation (Or Lack Thereof) of Black Women in Video Games” by Bug Gadson, the author makes an important claim that because of the systematic racism built on white supremacy and misogynoir (racism and misogyny), the “historical evolution of Black feminism in the United States not only developed through [black stereotypes],” but also how the media consume these types of harmful portrayal and use it to characterize all black women (Gadson, 2021). This is almost ironic because Mortal Kombat is known for its diverse characters. As a black non-binary student, it’s very painful to see racist comments of these black characters on Reddit, YouTube, and even Tumblr.

Gender: Along with racism, misogyny in the Mortal Kombat fanbase is no secret. As Mortal Kombat progressed over to NetherRealm Studios, women have grown to be less sexualized and played more dominant roles throughout the series. Because of this change, most fans complained that the women were ‘unattractive’ and threatened the NRS developers to revert to their revealing attire. One example of this outrage is when YouTube commenter, TrueUnderDawg made a petition on his Twitter and YouTube community post to enforce “cyber-swimsuits” for female Cyrax and Sektor, further engaging with the sexualization of female characters in video games. With Sektor and Cyrax being gender-swapped in MK1’s DLC: Khaos Reigns, fans believed that the gender swap was only implemented to add more relationships within the new timeline. While it’s true that Sektor and Cyrax were intended to pursue romantic relationships, I believe that it doesn’t overall deter their characterization. In fact, any form of relationship can build up motives and create a sense of agency for that character. For Sektor and Bi-Han's relationship, both share goals and concepts of building the Lin Kuei, so even if there is a gender swap, their relationship does make sense to a point (it’s also hypocritical to criticize Bi-Han/Sektor to justify Bi-Han/Sareena as both ships have their flaws). Tumblr user @fsfghgee made some pretty good points on Bi-Han and Sektor, so I recommend looking at them for more information.

Sexual Orientation: Since 2015, there has been a new splurge of canon and implied relationships in Mortal Kombat. In addition, there have been a handful of LGBTQ+ characters. Examples being Sindel, Mileena, Tanya, and Kung Jin. However, it didn’t stop fans from creating their own LGBTQ+ ships; with the most well-known ships being SubScorp (Scorpion x Sub Zero), Johnshi (Johnny x Kenshi), JadeTana (Jade x Kitana), and many others. With the new changes in MK1 (and Khaos Rain and Tanya’s relationship), most fans were claiming that NRS were erasing queer characters and relationships. For reference, I am pansexual. So, my personal view on ‘cis relationships’ might be different. While I do believe that NRS’s interpretation of relationships can be improved, it does have greater potential than Midway (sorry older fans). What really pisses me off is when fans were so quick to call “queer erasure” when non-canon ships weren’t implemented in the game. I’m not trying to say that NRS shouldn’t have more LGBTQ+ representation, but being blatantly cisphobic to the already canon ships within the series takes away actual queer erasure that purposefully diminishes the existence of the queer community throughout any other media platforms.

Writer’s Perspective: Ed Boon and Dominic Cianciolo are the main writers and directors for Mortal Kombat in NetherRealm Studios. As of 2023, they released a reboot of Mortal Kombat named Mortal 1 Kombat. After the dissolvement of the previous timeline (MK11), newly demigod Liu Kang resets the universe to create a more peaceful timeline. With the significant changes in the story, it’s almost difficult to adjust to the new storyline. Personally, I don’t like all the changes either. And I think it’s even more difficult to find someone who does like all the changes. Nevertheless, I believe that providing different perspectives can accommodate and even further regulate the story.��It’s important to take note that the earlier timeline is nearly irrelevant to MK1. So rather than trying to implement older lore, why not use what is already canon and interpret our own theories? For example, let’s take Hanzo, who is a child in MK1. Hanzo’s survivor guilt could parallel Tomas (Smoke). Rather than accepting the death of his clan, Hanzo’s emotions could turn him to be vengeful and become more irrational and radicalized. Another example could be Bi-Han/Noob Saibot (The corrupted version of Bi-Han). His irredeemable actions and hatred towards his family could symbolize the corruption of leadership and foreshadow his ultimate downfall. Now here’s a side note: I know some fans believed that Bi-Han should’ve gotten a redemption arc, but this man openly claimed that he is willing to kill his OWN FAMILY to remain in power. So, like... I don’t know if he could redeem himself if tried. That being said, there is nothing inherently wrong with ‘maliciously evil’ characters if written correctly. However, there is a difference between ‘bad’ characters and ‘bad character writing’ (AHEM AHEM KOTAL KAHN AHEM).   

Overall Thoughts: I want to make it clear that there is nothing wrong with criticizing Boon and Cianciolo and giving them feedback to help them improve future games. However, there is a difference between constructive criticism and harassment. The NRS developers aren’t blocking people in different media because they can’t handle criticism, they’re blocking people because they are continuously being harassed and receiving death threats. Regardless of these changes, Mortal Kombat is still an enjoyable game and shouldn’t be torn apart by its own hypocrisy. There is nothing wrong with having bias. Sometimes, biases can help us interpret different information in a nuanced way. But know that change is necessary for the world to function, even if some of the changes can kind of stink. 

[mrstsung]

Ok look so i caved in and said fuck it. If I'm gonna have mk12/mk1 shang tsung.

I'm gonna write him my way. Fuck canon at this point. So nrs can suck it. I'm taking him from NRS.

Anyways. Here's some edits of my husband.

One pink edit and one reg sparkle edit.

He still makes me go *agshfjjflhlhlkl* and *exasperated squees* 💖💖💖💖

*DO NOT USE WITHOUT PERMISSION!*

[imminent-danger-came]

*me crying* No you don't understand. MK ran away from LBD in 2x05 ("Run along now, destiny will find you soon enough"). He tried to run away from the curse in 4x07. But in 3x10, when everything was on the line, he ran towards Mei. He ran towards her to save her.

[neerons]

We love our men and their bullshit ❤️

[kirbybecomesastarwarrior]

So how evil would you say Morgan is?

In Morgan's last post, I mentioned one of the biggest changes in KBASW AU (to mix the anime & game lore...) is Dame Morgan the one who gave Hyness the Jamba Heart.

(I hinted at her ability in this post... when I said she's a black hole, I meant that.)

She was the one who created the dimensional rift that dropped the Jamba Heart at his & the cult's doorstep. Dame Morgan being very well aware that Hyness was in the position of the book of Legend made sure the circumstances a line with everything the book says.

And of course, she waltzes right in (pretending she just happened to pass by), "Could it be the Jamba Heart, and it's chosen you, imagine the great power you can do with that, only you could, this is your destiny... "

And presents herself "as a former star warrior who's become weary lost soul after the war just trying to find purpose." Needless to say, Hyness welcomes her with open arms. The raw power of an ex-gsa-soldier, he couldn't pass up this ...

The events of Star Allies are very different... The best way I can describe is (without spoilers/ this is a reference to Kirby Star Allies' game). The "Story Mode" doesn't happen but Star Allies Guest Star mode is happening... (Minus the boss battles MK & King Dedede since aren't there ... they have someone else to fight ~)

"Where's Kirby & the main gang during this..."

"Forgotten Land" is happening... and when Dream Friends are confronting Morpho Knight so is Kirby in the Isolated Isles (the Extra Mode), Morpho is testing Kirby and his friends all at the same time.

Basically (this Boss battle is happening), while everyone was fighting Morgan snatched the Jamba Heart away. However, one person notices and tries to stop her... Leading to... this zesty confrontation with Zan Partizanne and Dame Morgan.

Keep reading for spoilers~

Zan Partizanne was able to realize that it was Morgan who delivered the Jamba heart to their doorstep once she saw (Morgan) create the dimensional rift to snatch it away.

And as any true villain does... Morgan comes after Zan Partizanne's entire life & entire existence ( as well as the hypocrisy of the cult) and rubs her mistakes in her face leaving no crumbs.

And this is why Morgan's so dangerous. She takes advantage of everyone's very human flaws and calls people out on them... she knows how to play a good mind game. (via. Joker in the Dark Knight)

THE THREE MAGE SISTERS ARE MEANT PARALLEL TO UTHER'S & HIS THREE STUDENTS: Zan Partizanne - Sir Arthur/ Flamberge - Dame Morgan/ Francisca - Sir Nonsurat...

With a very key difference, the Mage sisters genuinely care for one another, Uther's students hated each other. Which is why the blind loyalty they put into Hyness sickened her (at least Uther had class but this bumbling moron's way to scrap at the bottom of the barrel.)

Dame Morgan is one of the most complex characters in the story. (Uther & Morgan's dynamic is basically Azula & Fire Lord Ozai...) She's very much out to get what she deserves, in a sense she played by the rules of the world but it was never enough.

Now she's out to make her own way, rule her own life... TO TAKE IT!

She's evil yes but you get why she's like this.

I also want to explain a bit more her power with the Jamba Heart, and how she was able to negate "insanity..." She's the middle man of the deal... that reaps the benefits. Getting that generated dark heat energy for herself. And it also helps that now she has her own personal sponge for that (*cough* Dark Matter *cough*).

And of course, after this, she departs for Dreamland... And this is where things get really interesting!~

I hope you all enjoyed Dame Morgan aka Morgan Le Faye.

[quitealotofsodapop]

Ok but what, exactly, are their reactions to baby Yubei? We know their general opinions but when Yellow Tusk and Peng are first released, there's this baby m9nkey jsut sitting in Azure's paws. A baby moneky that is apparently Wukong's blood daughter, they he had apparently carried. Had been carrying since he sealed them to begin with they soon learn

Azure is pretty much handed baby Yuebei by MK and Mei since he was the only adult around + MK was panicking at the loss of his mentor, dads, and Sandy. Azure figures out quickly from Yuebei's smell that she's Wukong's cub - he also smells Macaque on her, which surprises and disappoints him. The hut on FFM also gives him a clearer picture - many of Wukong's maternity clothes are still lying around the house, theres baby bottles, and a little sun and moon-themed nursery. All things that point towards his two former sworn brethern no longer being the same fighters he knew back then. And even worse, the King he often cared for loving another.

Yuebei's kidnapping was an unexpected, but welcome, addition to the plan. In Azure's palm held the greatest bargaining chip in all of the Heavens - the daughter of Sun Wukong. Containing many the same powers as her birth parent, and ones undiscovered yet.

When the MKrew escape the Scroll, Wukong is snarling like a beast at Azure until he sees that tiny puff of black fur held between his claws... his face goes pale and he drops to his knees like he did to the Jade Emperor millennia ago when his mate was threatened. He instinctively submits to ensure his cub's safety. It was no great feat for Azure to trap the Monkey King back into the Scroll after that (in the show it just took a snap of his fingers). The gang are less accomodating though - MK comes charging at the Brotherhood even as his body contorts painfully from his true monkey side breaking through. Yuebei is pretty much his adoptive baby sister, and he isn't going to let some creep take her as collateral!

Like in canon, their attempts to fight the Brotherhood are in vain. MK flies away screaming for his mentor and his fellow cub. Macaque hears his distress darn near across the country and comes running.

In the immediate aftermath of their release, Peng and Yellowtusk are mega confused why there's a baby monkey in Azure's hands rn?? Until they learn that it's the child of their "traitorous" former brother. Yellow Tusk's face drops, while Peng is amused by having the perfect the hostage. The elephant is the one to point out that the baby monkey can't be allowed to be near any of the fighting less she get seriously hurt (and they lose their hostage).

Azure likely has Yuebei trapped in her own Scroll column (a strangely hefty one he notes), for the time being, and releases her when he's fianlly sitting on the throne.

I'm honestly surprised that the Brotherhood didn't have a bigger reaction to Red Son - given that they likely never knew that their bro DBK had settled down and become a family man. Then again in this au, they don't get to have much of a chance to react.

Azure: "Demon Bull King. It's been many years-" DBK, sees Azure holding Yuebei hostage: "WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH OUR GODDAUGHTER!?" *immediate boss fight ensues*

Red Son ends up not just alerting the Celestial Realm about the Brotherhood's escape, but also tracks down Macaque to tell him exactly what happened to baby Yuebei. Macaque is understandably pissed, despite him and Wukong going through a rough patch. You better believe that the Warrior is seconds from beating down that palace door himself if it means Yuebei stays safe. But he has to focus on finding MK and Wukong rn first.

Macaque does lay it in to MK for a while though, not only out of anger for his poor judgement, but to force him to see his own hypocrisy.

Macaque: "Why would you give the baby to a stranger!? Why couldn't have you waited until I got back?! Or found DBK or the Vixen!?" MK: "I panicked ok!? I just wanted my family back!" Macaque: "I though you said on Camel Ridge you didn't have a family?" MK, still crying: "YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN! I'm just some... thing dumped here. I don't even know who created me!" Macaque, angry tears: "Neither do I! Do I cry about it? No! Because I have a troop! I have a mate! And by the gods, I have cubs of my own now!" Macaque: *pulls MK into a suffocating hug* "And like it or not, that includes you too bud." MK: *starts crying harder, like a little kid again*

Eventually the second fight with the Brotherhood becomes more of trying to stop Macaque from skinning the lion then and there, at least until he hands over Yuebei. Azure given them the choice; Yuebei's life - or the Jade Emperor's.

You can imagine what they choose. Nezha can't even disagree with their choice. (Nezha: "If he lays a claw upon her head, not even the Buddha could stop what I'd do to him.").

Cue MK and Macaque dipping into SWK's Scroll column to get their Monkey King back. And for both of them to have character-shaking revelations.

And ofc back in the Celestial Realm, Azure is sitting upon his conquered throne with Yuebei on his knee. The power of the Emperor corrupting his mind to think of a world where she's his heir, and Wukong his consort, things he only dreamed of half-heartedly. These thoughts become even more frenzied as the other two uncover copies of Wukong's medical reports from Gold Star's office (shared via Lao Tzu); explaining to all three of them just how long Yuebei has been cooking for + Macaque didn't sire her. This reinenforced the corrupted Azure Emperor that Wukong was *meant* to be his Queen, otherwise, why else would Yuebei be born just shy of his release?

(Hint: It's cause Macaque came back and Wukong started trusting others again.)

Yellow Tusk is horrified by Azure's behavior, while Peng just wants to see their leader happy. The palace staff brave enough to stay (notably the Orchard Maidens) are terrified for the baby's and the world's safety.

Yuebei this whole time, is getting increasingly angry at not being able to see her parents or troop, and is about to darn near explode if the "bad kitty" doesn't let her go. Or if the "shiny birdy" doesn't stop teasing her.

[ibest14]

Many people ask me what my opinion is on Mortal Kombat 11? After 5 or 6 years of the game's release, the truth is that I have some things to say.

I have a love and hate relationship with this game, because it made a lot of mistakes and it showed some nonsense and unnecessary things

1 - Retcon Sindel doesn't make any fucking sense, since in (Mortal Kombat 9) it was explained and shown that Sindel committed suicide and put a protection field on earth so Shao Kahn can't invade. But then in Mortal Kombat 11 they show us that the milf has practically always been evil which doesn't make any fucking sense. If Sindel really was evil why the hell then does she commit suicide and put a protective field on earth? it doesn't make any fucking logical, plus in Mortal Kombat 9 at the end of her Tower. They say that she restores her kingdom (edenia) and that she was just being controlled and manipulated by Quan Chi's dark magic and there is no timeline bullshit here because the Sindel from Mortal Kombat 11 is the same as the one from Mortal Kombat 9 and Mortal Kombat X. So she supposedly committed suicide and by committing suicide she put up a force field to protect the earth from Shao Kahn. if she was evil what the hell would she do that for? She would just stay with Shao kahn suck his dick every fucking day for over 10,000 years. fuck!!!!

2 - Kotal x Jade: Practically the most stupid and senseless love relationship ever seen in videogames, where the fuck did this come from? for God's sake!!! this is bullshit!! fucking bullshit!!! the Osh-Tekk were never mentioned in the previous games, moreover! they are creations of Mortal Kombat X, besides it was never mentioned that Jade had a relationship with someone in the past. So putting a character created by NRS and putting him together with a classic character is bullshit. Also for God's sake!!! he's a fucking genocidal!!! he wanted to kill all tarkatans simply for helping Mileena. Kotal is just a false god and a frustrated despotic who is too proud and arrogant to admit that he's not much different than Shao kahn. If Jade had to have a love relationship with someone it would make much more sense for it to be Kung Lao, some will say it could also be with Smoke but the truth is I'm not a fan of that ship, but it also makes more sense than Kotal X Jade. The only relationship that could have made sense with Kotal and Jade is a teacher - student relationship, something like: Bo Ra Cho - Kung Lao - Liu Kang. They could have done something about Kotal being her mentor or something and that would have made a lot of sense. But no! It ruins it with a love relationship between an Osh-Tekk and an Edenian girl needlessly pulled out of the depths of ass.

3 - Kung Lao: I would like to know if any NRS writer hates this character to death? Or if when he was a child his older brother humiliated his favorite character with Kung Lao in some of the Midway era games? I have never seen such disrespect, hatred and mistreatment towards an MK character in NRS as that shown to Kung Lao, the character went from being a great hero in his time to a fucking jobber like Krillin from DBZ, but with the only difference that Krillin was given a good life, an honorable job, a wife and a daughter. But what does Kung Lao get? Well… only humiliation, mistreatment, broken necks and unnecessary hatred from the rest of the characters on the roster, accusing him of being arrogant and just being a minor and unimportant shaolin as if they were better than him. And then Kung Lao is the Arrogant one according to them, anyway! Hypocrisy.

but that's not all, NRS ruined his entire characterization and story. in the Midway era: Kung Lao, was a humble pacifist, but with a healthy pride (A / N: since he was the descendant of a fucking champion of more than 500 years) who was not interested in the whole Chosen One thing and all that shit, the monks wanted him as champion and he simply gave them the middle finger and said: go fuck yourself, I'm not interested in that, I just want to make my own life, live in peace and be happy. what's more, he didn't even live with the monks, the guy was like a kind of Sasuke from Shippuden before fighting Itachi, a quiet guy but with immense potential. Lao was only dragged into Mortal Kombat by the events of MK2 and after the death of Liu Kang in MKDA. But NRS ruined that and turned him into the loyal partner against crime who doesn't fuck, has never had a girlfriend, who only serves to make the protagonist look cool and who is only jealous because he is not the chosen one. Besides, they make him arrogant, going against what he was in Midway. My God!! This man defeated the fucking Deadly Alliance + Kitaro and Motaro alone, without anyone's help.

If it weren't for Shao Kahn breaking his neck, in a cowardly attack from behind, which was too low even for him being an emperor. Kung Lao would have won.

Lao showed his worth and skill. Kung Lao is on par with Liu Kang and even with a little more concentration, training and not being too confident (A/n: like Gohan SSJ2 against a desperate Cell) he could even be superior. But since that would eclipse their overrated Chinese boy scout, they prefer the idea of ​​the jobber. Now his arrogance may be excessive in NRS but it's not that big of a deal, but the writers like to make the character hated and you can even see that in the dialogues, they practically treat him as if he were Frost herself they had in front of them and not an ally.

Sonya mocks him by calling him just a partner and useless, as if she wasn't also Jax's partner against crime at one time, because the last time I checked, Jackson Briggs was his leader and she was just his partner. In short, Hypocrisy.

Hanzo (Scorpion) reprimands him for being arrogant and I wonder who was the one who, out of pure arrogance and letting himself be carried away by anger, killed Quan Chi even when they told him not to and practically condemned the Revenants to never be saved again? In short, Hypocrisy.

And those are just examples, but I'm not going to detail dialogue by dialogue.

But one of the worst is that his supposed best friend doesn't defend him. In fact, when he resets the era at the end of the game and meets the Great Kung Lao, Liu Kang tells him that: you are very humble, not like the Kung Lao I knew.

It was unnecessary to say that, since this Kung Lao doesn't know who the Other Kung Lao is.

That he supposedly wasn't your best friend? Now that he's gone, you practically let out everything you think and instead of keeping the memory of the good, loyal friend you had despite all the humiliation he received, you simply start bringing up his flaws behind his back? It seems that he wasn't your friend after all.

That and the writers couldn't keep their hatred towards Kung Lao in their pockets even at the end of the game's DLC.

Kung lao was always my favorite character and that of many, I even like him more than Liu Kang and in the end I hate what NRS are doing with him and in MK1 they don't even give him a break since he doesn't become a champion and in almost all the endings of the guest characters like Homelander and Omni-Man they kill him first. If NRS is going to keep humiliating him, it's better to kill him and give him an epic ending or demote him to be a character with the same importance in the story as Li Mei. Kobra, Mavado, Kira, Bo Ra Cho or even Reiko that you almost never see in the games.

[thevillainsfangirl]

The absolute absurd irony and HYPOCRISY of Fandom Puritans who only apply their bullshit to sex and romance.

They are rampant in horror fandoms and in the Mortal Kombat fandom. I once saw MK fans "exposing the proship problem in the MK fandom" on Twitter last year, complete with "Yeah, the games are super violent, does that mean we should be cool with INCEST?!?!!" 🚬😒 I've seen loads of slasher fans with "Proship DNI" on their posts and bios.

Oh, so shipping XYZ means you do it in real life, but liking gore, violence, and murder doesn't make you violent?

It's giving "Execute this person for adultery!"

[tamaruaart]

Honestly I want you to go more into detail about the dynamic your ocs share:>

Hohohoho thank you doppel, ama have FUN with this one!

So for this, I decided to Choose Wukong and Zhaoyan's dynamic, mostly because it's really lore heavy.

The whole shtick of their dynamic is:

"Opposites who you'd think could never be similar to one another, until you realize how similar they actually are when you start reading in between the lines."

From the surface, yeah, they'd never get along (again). Zhao's a relaxed magic lady. While Wukong is a loud demon. And also, the Chinese Zodiacs of the monkey and tiger are specifically stated not to get along very well haha

(Not to mention fashion wise they're also supposed to be opposites, with Zhao's fashion being elegant and feminine while Wukong's literally in armour most of the time)

And just the fact they get on each other's nerves a lot. Zhao's bitch-y-ness and hypocrisy (reasonably) get on Wukong's nerves. And Wukong's recklessness and just the general fact he's pretty frustrating, get on Zhao's nerves.

But they're actually a lot more similar.

Both in looks (orange hair, golden eyes), association with the sun (Wukong's aesthetic with the sun and the tiger's association with weather elements in Chinese culture. Zhao's being the sun), but also in their flaws.

Both run away when they make mistakes. And it's gotten to the point where they're even running togheter methinks.

But the difference is, Wukong stops running and actually starts facing his flaws. While Zhao just chooses to live her life alone, as the witch doesn't have the will to try and rekindle everything that's happened.

But when MK comes along, she HAS to face her problems. And though she doesn't realize it, it's the best thing that has happened to her. Because it also gets her closer to Wukong, and they start realizing their shared flaws internally and they become one of my fave duos

Because they still dislike each other of course- But now it's more lighthearted. But that development is SLOW, I think in Zhao's story they only start progressing in like, late season 3.

I also love their dynamic in general- The wine aunt and Apple Juice uncle as I love to call it! It's my favorite trope afjjfkfmkfk be it platonic or romantic (Zhao and Wukong AREN'T supposed to be in love but I'm actually neutral about it because some of my irl friends ship it)

And yeah that's it about em lololol, there's a LOT of (admittedly poorly executed) symbolism in their dynamic and I really like talking about them :D

Feel free to send in more asks lmao

[girlactionfigure]

🟧  Sunday afternoon - events from Israel  

ISRAEL REALTIME - Connecting to Israel in Realtime

♦️LEBANON.. The IDF announces it eliminated in an airstrike yesterday in Beirut Nabil Qaouk, commander of Hezbollah's Preventative Security Unit, and deputy head of the group's executive council.

♦️LEBANON.. Lebanese media: The fate of Hashem Safieddine, the current Hezbollah council head and expected successor to Nasrallah, remains unknown.

♦️IDF ATTACKING LEBANON.. Air force attacks continue all the time in all of Lebanon.  Relatively low intensity compared to the past few days.

♦️GAZA.. IDF installing huge observation poles on the Philadelphi border corridor.

♦️GAZA.. Destroyed: an underground route about a kilometer long in a civilian area.  In the tunnel, several rooms and facilities were found that were used byHamas to hide for extended periods, as well as weapons storage.

♦️GAZA.. airstrike against a group of Hamas operatives operating out of a former school in the northern Gaza Strip a short while ago. Hamas terrorists were using the Umm al-Fahm School in Beit Lahiya to plan and carry out attacks against IDF troops and against Israel.

♦️SYRIA.. air defense systems activated in Homs, Syria - which has been a frequent target of the IDF.  Syrian media reports that before noon the IDF attacked positions of the pro-Iranian militias in the area of ​​Wadi Hana near Al-Qusayr in Homs.

🔹LEBANESE PM.. Prime Minister Najib Mikati at a press conference: ready to implement UN resolution 1701.  The number of displaced people may reach a million.

🔹US ADMIN SAYS.. The Biden administration continues to call on Israel to refrain from a ground operation in Lebanon - and claim that such a move would harm attempts to weaken support for Hezbollah inside Lebanon, per the Washington Post.

🔹NOTING CHANGING TONE.. in the international press: (Amit Segal)

1. Israel has the most impressive army in the world

2. Israel is winning the war on terror

3. Israel exposed the hypocrisy of Biden's & UK’s Starmer’s policy

4. Were the hawks in Israel right and is it possible to achieve a complete victory?

Articles in the Daily Telegraph ->

Israel has exposed the lie at the heart of Starmer and Biden’s foreign policy - https://archive.md/6peFD#selection-2369.4-2369.81

Israel has proved it has the most impressive military in the world - https://archive.md/Ge9kB#selection-2369.4-2369.70

 ❗️AIR TRAVEL.. the EU Aviation Safety Agency really did issue an airspace warning for Israel warning airlines away from Sept. 28 until Oct. 31.  “Considering the current conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, there is a high risk to civil aviation. The conflict involves rockets, missiles and drones launches from Lebanon with Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire, including systematic activation of air-defence systems… Although, until now the Civil Aviation Authority of the State of Israel has been efficiently managing the risks to civil aviation in its airspace through a tactical deconfliction, it is considered that the current intensity of the conflict represents an overall high risk to civil aviation.”

Official statement:  Ben Gurion Airport is open for takeoffs and landings. Those leaving Israel should take into account there may be difficulties in their return to Israel (due to flight availability.)

▪️ECONOMY.. The price of fuel at the beginning of October will be NIS 7.16 per liter, a decrease of 0.13 per liter.

▪️WAR POLITICS.. Arab MK Ahmed Tibi: from the Ra'am-Ta'al faction “Israel excels in assassinations. Killings do not bring security, agreements bring security. The worst thing about the killings is when families and children are killed.  There is no worse criminal situation than those not involved being killed.” 

[arttrampbelle]

Shang tsung doesn't need to be a "good guy" to be sympathetic or do nice or "good" deeds.

Y'all should understand that not everyone needs to be a hero to be redeemed.

That's some bullshit propaganda that y'all tend to fall for.

It's like that feeling of "if you pray to jesus,all you're sins in OUR eyes will be forgiven" type indoctrinated shit. Like no shade thrown,even as someone who is spiritual myself. I find people thinking that a villain in a story should become a hero in order to be redeemed,kinda suspicious.

Shang tsung,to me,has ALWAYS BEEN NUANCED. And already had benevolent qualities and traits. Y'all just only see one damn part of it because the writers suck at showing them properly.

Not to mention if a character isn't obnoxiously nice or mean,y'all don't pay attention to them.

It's like most of mk fans I've noticed,at least as of late. Feels like I'm talking to 3yr olds in media literacy.

So no. Shang tsung needs to be a NEUTRAL CHARACTER. not good,not evil,just self serving and even quite helpful as a tournament master as he is supposed to fucking be.

He is supposed to be that "keep your friends close,keep you enemies closer" type. He is the "the enemy of my enemies are my friends" type. He's scary intelligent,cunning,a master martial artist,a brilliant alchemist,and one badass mofo you do not wanna cross.

But most of all,he is courteous,a gracious host on his island,and his punishments are as great as his rewards. He does keep his end of the bargain,but he also gets compensation.

If anything you need to worry about earthrealms warriors more than him. Half of them now(due to piss poor writing) are hiding behind heroic deeds and false statements of peace yet they have unclean hands too.

With Shang tsung you know what you are dealing with,it's on the table. If you cant read the obvious,you are indeed a foolish one.

No matter what iteration of shang tsung you have. One thing is clear,made clear,and that is when you deal with him. You deal with the devil so to speak.

So if you're not smart nor prepared. That's on your ass honey. Not his. Do not blame him for your stupidity.

But if you know how to play the game,play chess with the serpent. And know these archetypes. Then you may have a better shot. But that's all on you.

Either way,in your favor or not. Do not blame him for telling you exactly what is needed to be said,not what you wanna hear. Honeyed words or not,there's always a sliver of truth and bitter pill of truth in his words. And he's good at making either people hate his guts or bow and worship him.

THAT IS WHY HE'S DANGEROUS. not because of magic,or experiments and other trival bullshit.

Nah.

It's because shang tsung is good at talking. Good at trades and making you believe whatever is what he wants you to see.

Even if it may go against him. He wants you to fuck up,get angry at him,attack,be unbalanced,so he can fuck your shit right up!

Holy shit this mans whole ass moveset is zoning and keeping you in a certain place in the stage even!

It's part of his whole damb character.

I could go on and on. But do not blame to serpent for telling you information for questions you ask him. You're the one who chose to bite his apple of enlightenment and knowledge so to speak.

Which is why the gods,titans,etc want these kombatants,warriors to be stupid. So they are easy to control,to get what they want.

Like it's glaringly obvious that mortal kombats story has these type of tropes and symbolism in it. But people are too blind,for various reasons. To see it.

I could get deep. It's a videogame,i know. It is what it is.

But the more i look at mk12/mk1 shang tsung. The more i feel its a missed opportunity to showcase these themes better for him.

Like holy shit dude. Shang tsung pointing out the hypocrisy of the gods. And whispers in our earthrealm warriors ears. And maybe convincing a few to join his side. Or even better. Our heroes,kung lao and mortal raiden to question liu kang and not blindly follow like fucking idiots. Sure just trust this dude right? Bruh.

Shang tsung is the only one with a brain once again. And i hate them making everyone else so stupid to make him seem better in the shithole plot of theirs. If you can call it a plot.

It burns me,that it's a waste of potential.

But i digress.

Anyways. Shang tsung,way more than an evil conjurer of tricks my dudes. Waaaaaay fucking more.

[weaverpop]

Seems like mk is the problematic one of the relationship

Does nezha not have his issues?

Oh he does. Mk is def not the only problematic one, it’s just his issues are more of a reaction to the recent trauma. Going through almost two years worth of it non stop will do that to someone. Nezha’s are a bit more… deep rooted. They tie in very heavily with his relationship with Jing because of everything that’s happened in the past. It’s already been established that he is also protective of Mk, willing to get hurt for him (see prev post).

They learn to be more open with eachother after mk starts going to therapy, and Nezha actually opens up about this. It doesn’t prevent fights from happening though.

It would def start about Nezha’s hypocrisy. Telling Mk to stop being so protective, only to turn around and do the same thing. Then it escalates as Nezha wants to get the last word in (leftover from fights with Jing), and things get heated. Until Mk cuts himself off mid yell, takes a breath, and tells Nezha that they both needed a moment to calm down.

He went on a Walk, and left Nezha to his own devices. Nezha is unhappy, but takes the time to cool down and reflect. He feels terrible once he realized Mk is right, and tries to make it up to him by… attempting to make dinner. It doesn’t quite work out as planned, and Mk come whom to a house smelling like burnt chicken and rice. He finds Nezha crying in the kitchen and is alarmed, thinking he’s hurt.

Nezha, once calm, apologizes for the fight and says he’s sorry about the burnt dinner. Mk is just happy he’s ok, and they order a pizza and cuddle while watching lord of the rings.

Again, not the last fight they’d have, but it’s def not a one way street.

[myremnantarmy]

𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐆𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐥

Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Mk 12:13-17

Some Pharisees and Herodians were sent

to Jesus to ensnare him in his speech.

They came and said to him,

“Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man

and that you are not concerned with anyone’s opinion.

You do not regard a person’s status

but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth.

Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not?

Should we pay or should we not pay?”

Knowing their hypocrisy he said to them,

“Why are you testing me?

Bring me a denarius to look at.”

They brought one to him and he said to them,

“Whose image and inscription is this?”

They replied to him, “Caesar’s.”

So Jesus said to them,

“Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar

and to God what belongs to God.”

They were utterly amazed at him.

[real-sun-wukong-fan01]

Hello! I hope your month has treated you well so far. In your Time Swap AU, what do you mean by SWK having a medical degree? Did he went to a medical college some time ago? What branch was it? Does he ever use it to win arguments? Does he know the doctor handwriting cypher? Has anyone ever pointed out the hypocrisy of him having a poor self care and diet but also having a medical degree? What does he use it for and apply it on? Can you tell me more on what is MK's deal with Erlang in the AU? What relationship do they have? What was Tang like as a monk on this AU?

Eat your meals regularly with fruits and vegetables!

Hello!!!

- it's a reference to the book as wukong has a medical degree there as well!

- yeah, he self taught himself coding later on.

- of the branch, I do not know, I didn't thought this much into it.

- he..yeah. he would start speaking in big words, he's a nerd anyway.

- yeah. Considering his own handwriting sucks ass.

- yeah. Mk. Everyone did. Does he listen? No.

- he uses it mainly for the hero stuff, for himself, others and poor civilians, but never for a job or anything, he makes games for a living!!

- well, kind of like wukong and nezha? Of course both have a different dynamic, but pretty much the same in lmk!! Erlang trying to stop mk from taking the samadhi fire rings! They do have some kind of sibling dynamic but not as much as nezha and wukong in the original.

- tang was a cowardly but very smart and forgiving monk, hardly getting mad but he knew how to hold his ground despite him being scared of anything, even a leaf could make him jump. He was like a father for mk.

:))

[randomnoteforfuturereference]

Those who go "Criticizing the Israeli government isn't antisemitic... but accusing it of apartheid or genocide is" do themselves no favors. Nor do they do Israel any favors in the long term.

Before I proceed, I need to make clear (both to Israelis as well as "antizionists"/tankies) when the accusation is paired with a declaration that Israel shouldn't exist, I'll agree that's when we get into antisemitism. After all, it'd be baffling to say that Serbia, China, or Sudan should cease existing for their part in genocide within the past 3 decades (not to be confused with the stance that certain parts of those nations have full grounds to break away), and only a relative fringe (your daily reminder that tumblr/twitter is not real life) will say the same about all the countries in the Americas.

Setting that aside, my issue is declaring that you can't say genocide or apartheid takes the teeth out of arguments to make them palatable for the political establishment.

Usually when I see people deny that apartheid, they bring up how Israeli Arabs have all the rights of citizenry. Except they fail to address how the accusation is leveled primarily at Israel's treatment of the West Bank (the settlements fulfill the literal translation of the "apartheid"). Or how within Israel proper, you can see a concerted campaign by the right to further marginalize Arab communities; from Netanyahu declaring Arab voters a fifth column, to the clear intent of the "nation state law", to incitement of violence from mobs and MKs.

Standing Together elaborates on the apartheid element:

Now for the genocide part, one could argue about the whether this actually meets the academic definition. However I'd still argue that by itself, accusing the Israeli government of genocide isn't inherently antisemitic even if it's frequently stated by those who are. Death toll aside, if you not only look at the progressive nature of the evacuation orders that pushes Gazans into an ever shrinking "safe zone" with no provision for return, it's not hard for it to meet at least the ethnic cleansing criteria.

Importantly, the Israeli government has done nothing to reign in extremism. By not shutting down its genocidal members (who are signaling that they want to resettle Gaza) or doing anything more than wrist-slapping mobs, it essentially approves that ideology. So while Israelis as a whole aren't genocidal, those who are are where it counts. Which then is where you have intent, regardless of Bibi's English statements to the world.

Also, no, not everyone who suffers deprivation or hardship is gonna become a genocidal terrorist. But it's well-documented that such conditions do make it easier for extremist groups to gain influence and recruit. In that regard, I argue that "Oct 7 was a natural consequence" is also a harsh but valid statement; not just due to conditions that make it easier for Hamas to get control (and gain popularity in the WB) but also because it's clear as day that the far-right coalition's push for WB occupation actually weakened Israeli security.

And comparing yourself to the conduct of Hamas or any of the Arab states to make yourself look better is an utter fallacy.

It's fair to point out the hypocrisy of those who level the accusations but don't say a peep about Russia or China (or how Arab states treat Palestinian refugees for that matter). And I think it's fair to ask anyone who comes out with such an accusation to clarify if they are just critiquing your gov/military's actions or your very existence.

But when "It's fair to criticize Israel" is repeatedly followed by "Not like That", it raises the question as to whether you really are inviting criticism of Israeli policy. Because hating Bibi is easy; harder is addressing the conditions that allowed him to come to power and the long-term ramifications.

[lennart11412]

2. Standards of Truth:

Philosophy has continuously tried to find tests for truth, and so has wrought out theories of knowledge--epistemologies, Not to go back into the Greek philosophy, we have in modern times such theories as (1) the Kantian, (2) the scholastic, (3) the Hegelian, (4) the pragmatic, (5) that of the "new realism"; and these include only such as may be defined with some clearness, for the tendencies of current thought have been toward confusion concerning all standards of truth and reality, and so toward widespread agnosticism and skepticism. This temper has, naturally, reacted on thinking in practical ethics and upon the sanctions of religion. There is thus in religion and morals a tendency to obscure the distinction between what is and what ought to be.

See AUTHORITY; ETHICS; PHILOSOPHY; RIGHT; SIN.

In the Bible, the known will of God is final for man as a standard of truth, not as arbitrary, but as expressive of God's nature. God's nature is all-comprehensive of fact and goodness, and so is, all and in all, the source, support and objective of all concrete being. The will of God thus reveals, persuades to and achieves the ideals and ends of complete existence. The term "truth" is sometimes, therefore, nearly equivalent to the revealed will of God.

3. Special Features in Biblical Writings:

(1) The Old Testament uses the term "truth" primarily of God and applies the principle to man. The practical objective is ever prominent.

(2) The Synoptic Gospels and Acts use the term chiefly in popular idiomatic phrases "of a truth," "in truth," "surely" (compare Lk 22:59; Acts 4:27). In Mt 22:16 there is a more serious and comprehensive application, but it is in the flattering words of Pharisaic hypocrisy (compare Mk 12:14; Lk 20:21). To be sure, we are to understand that even in the phrases of common speech Jesus employed the term in all seriousness (Lk 4:25; 9:27).

(3) In Paul the sense of divine faithfulness, as in the Old Testament, is occasionally met (Rom 3:3,7; 15:8). Again the term emphasizes sincerity (1 Cor 5:8; 2 Cor 7:14). Generally it has direct or clearly implied reference to God's revelation in Jesus Christ with a view to redeeming men. In a general way the term is thus equivalent to the gospel, but there is never identification of the two terms (see Rom 2:8; Eph 1:13; 1 Tim 3:15). In Gal 2:5; 5:7, "the truth of the gospel" is its content in the purpose of God, in contrast with misconceptions of it: the true gospel as against false representations of the gospel.

(4) In the Johannine writings we find occasionally the emphatic phrase of genuineness (1 Jn 3:18; 2 Jn 1:1; 3 Jn 1:1) and emphatic reality (Jn 8:46; 16:7). In Revelation we have "true" in the sense of trustworthy, because ultimately real or in accord with ultimate reality (3:7,14; 6:10; 15:3; 19:9,11, etc.). Generally, as in the Gospel, we approach more nearly than elsewhere in Scripture a metaphysical use, yet always with the practical religious end dominant. Truth is reality in relation to the vital interests of the soul. It is primarily something to be realized and done, rather than something to be learned or known. In the largest aspect it is God's nature finding expression in His creation, in revelation, in Jesus Christ in whom "grace and truth came" (Jn 1:17), and finally in man apprehending, accepting and practically realizing the essential values of life, which are the will of God (Jn 1:14; 8:32; 17:19; 18:37 f; 1 Jn 2:21; 3:19). Truth is personalized in Jesus Christ. He truly expresses God, presents the true ideal of man, in Himself summarizes the harmony of existence and becomes the agent for unifying the disordered world. Hence, He is the Truth (Jn 14:6), the true expression (Logos, Jn 1:1) of God. See the same idea without the terminology in Paul (Col 1:14 ff; 2:9). Similarly, the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth because His function is to guide into all truth (Jn 16:13; 1 Jn 2:27; 5:7).

(5) It is understood by many that in James, Peter, Hebrews, and possibly the Pastoral Epistles, the term connotes "the body of Christian teaching" (compare Jas 1:18; 3:14; 1 Pet 1:22; 2 Pet 2:2; Heb 10:26; 1 Tim 3:15). The use of the article here cannot be conclusive, and instead of "the body of Christian teaching," it seems more correct to understand the reality of life values as represented in the gospel plan of salvation and of living. In a general way this would include "the body of Christian teaching," but the reference would be less concrete. James is too early a writing to employ the term in this so specific a sense.

III. Analytical Summary.

1. Truth in God:

(1) Truth is presented in Scripture as a chief element in the nature of God (Ps 31:5; Isa 65:16). (2) But this quality is never given as an abstract teaching, but only as qualifying God in His relations and activities. So it is a guaranty of constancy (Dt 32:4; Ps 100:5; 146:6; Jas 1:17); especially a ground of confidence in His promises (Ex 34:6; Ps 91:4; 146:6); of right dealing with men without reference to any explicit pledges (Ps 85:11; 89:14); a basis of security in the correctness of His teachings (Neh 9:13; Ps 119:142; Isa 25:1); of assurance within His covenant relations (Ps 89:5; Isa 55:3). (3) God's truth is especially noteworthy as a guaranty of merciful consideration of men. This is an important element in theology of the Old Testament, as it is a point guarded also in the New Testament (Ps 25:10; 31:5; 61:7; 85:10; 98:3; Jn 3:16; Rom 3:23-26). (4) Equally is the truth of God an assurance to men of righteous judgment in condemnation of sin and sinners (1 Sam 15:29; Ps 96:13; Rom 2:2,8). In general the truth of God stands for the consistency of His nature and guarantees His full response in all the relations of a universe of which He is the Maker, Preserver, and End.

2. Truth in Man:

As related to God in origin and obligation, man is bound morally to see and respond to all the demands of his relations to God and to the order in which he lives under God. (1) Truthfulness in speech, and also in the complete response of his nature to the demand upon it, is urged as a quality to be found in man and is commended where found, as its lack is condemned. It is essential to true manhood. Here, as in the case of truth in God, truth is regarded as revealed in social relations and responsibilities. Truth is not merely in utterance, nor is it only response to a specific command or word, but lies in the response of the will and life to the essential obligations of one's being (Ps 15:2; 119:30; Prov 12:19; 23:23; Isa 59:4,14,15; Jer 7:28; 9:3; Hos 4:1; Rom 1:18,25; Eph 4:15; 2 Thess 2:10,12).

(2) Truth in man is in response to truth in God, and is to be acquired on the basis of a gift from God. This gift comes by way of teaching and also by way of the working of the Divine Spirit in the life of man. Highest truth in correspondence to ideal is possible only by the working of "the God of truth" in the spirit of the man. Man's freedom to realize his being is dependent upon his receptive attitude toward the Son of God. Hence salvation in its fullest idea is stated in terms of truth (Jn 11:3 ff; Phil 3:10 ff). See in general, Ps 51:6; Isa 25:1; Jn 3:21; 8:32; 16:13; 17:19; 18:37; Eph 4:21,24; 5:9; Heb 10:26; 1 Jn 2:27.

3. Truth in Religion:

The modern study of religion on an evolutionary hypothesis and the comparative study of religions have contributed to an extensive questioning whether there is any absolute truth in religion, or at least any standards by which truth in religion may be known. Isa 43 and 44 and Paul in Acts 17 and Gal 3 accord with modern findings that there is an element of truth in religions generally, and that God's faithfulness pledges Him to bring the light of fuller truth to all men. This He does through the religion and the testimony of them to whom He has already come with this fuller light. This light is contained in the revealed word of the Old Testament prophets and of the New Testament witnesses to Jesus. In a definite way the Scriptures preserve these standards of religious truth. But always the attitude of the individual, as also of the group, determines the measure of apprehension of the truth and the certainty with which it is held. It is always important to keep in mind that truth in religion is not primarily an intellectualistic affair, to be cognized, but is essentially a voluntaristic experience and a duty to be done for the glory of God in the realization of the complete truth of God. Jesus Christ as the truth of God becomes the standard and test for truth in the religion of men. And this not in any objective and formal way of a series of propositions, to be accepted and contended for, but in the subjective way of experience, in a series of ideals to be realized and propagated. If anyone wishes to do God's will, he shall be able to decide the truth of religious teaching, and the Son who is true will give the freedom of truth (Jn 7:17; 8:32).

William Owen Carver