#protector of Zaun not Silco

[idyllicbby]

this is the true version of Sev, not whatever weird ass fanon version of her that ppl who don’t fully understand her character think she is.

[exastriscass]

Re: people being confused/upset about Vi becoming an enforcer (even though that has always been a main point of the show - how a kid from the lanes becomes an enforcer)

I saw someone say something along the lines of “Ekko is the character y’all think Vi is” and I think that hit the nail right on the head.

Ekko has been fighting for his home for years. He has a strong sense of justice and ideals for a better Zaun. I’m actually really excited to see him interacting more with Heimerdinger because I think their conversations will be interesting.

Vi on the other hand is a horribly broken character. She went from having a home and a family - a place of belonging - to experiencing a huge trauma and loss. Then right as the loss happened he was kidnapped and sent to a prison where she was isolated. By the time she is freed she no longer recognizes her home, her friends, or her own sister. And as she tries to re-find her place in her old life she realizes that that place doesn’t exist anymore. So of course she is going to follow the path of the person that cared about her (Caitlyn healing her) and made space for her (Caitlyn standing up for her to her family and to the council).

And the thing about Vi is that she isn’t idealistic in the way Ekko and even Caitlyn is. She has never indicated she wants things to be different for the better - only that she wants things to go back to how they were. She doesn’t want Jinx, she wants Powder. She doesn’t want the Zaun Silco has made, but she talks about how it was better under Vander (which still wasn’t ideal). She doesn’t have an idea for the future because she’s still stuck trying to regain the past - that is the broken aspect of her character and at the end of S1 she fully realizes there is no going back. That it is all truly gone. The one thing she has left to fall back on is her role of protector, which Caitlyn now needs.

What is going to be interesting in S2 is more the reactions to Vi’s involvement as an enforcer - from all sides. But they have done a great job of setting everything up and if it’s coming as a surprise to you then maybe you’ve been idealizing Vi as a character she’s not. Ekko is right there, is fucking phenomenal, and will never join the enforcers.

[dissapointu]

how about arcane characters with a s/o that has a cat companion. Like his cat is seen everywhere they can go, on there shoulders, runs to the market, gang shootouts( for some of the more morally grey characters in zaun.) ect. The cat is very protective of there s/o and was hesitant when they first met the characters in question, but the the less is a good boy/girl.

A protective, ride-or-die cat as your constant companion? ICONIC. This little feline bodyguard is out here stealing hearts and taking names, while also being suspicious of anyone who gets too close to you. Spoiler alert: they’re gonna be OBSESSED.

Jinx

Jinx would be INSTANTLY fascinated by your cat.

• The first meeting? Pure chaos. Your cat hisses, and Jinx hisses back just to mess with it. “Oh, so YOU’RE the boss here, huh? Let’s see how long THAT lasts!”

• Once your cat warms up, Jinx is smitten, carrying it around like a baby while saying stuff like, “We’re gonna blow stuff up together, kitty. You’re in the gang now.”

• She’d build it little accessories, like goggles or a harness for “maximum chaos.” (“Every sidekick needs gear, babe!”)

• During fights, Jinx is cackling as your cat perches on your shoulder like a tiny warlord. “Look at us—unstoppable!”

Vi

Vi would think it’s hilarious at first, but the cat’s loyalty earns her respect.

• The first time the cat hisses at her, Vi raises an eyebrow and smirks. “Feisty little thing, aren’t you? Just like your owner.”

• Once she gains the cat’s trust, she’s giving it belly rubs and calling it tough-sounding nicknames like “Scrapper” or “Claws.”

• She LOVES how the cat follows you everywhere, even into sketchy situations. “Guess I’ve got competition for best protector, huh?”

• If anyone messes with you, she’s jokingly like, “Back off before my partner—or their cat—tears you apart.”

Sevika

Sevika would be skeptical at first, but the cat would win her over.

• The initial meeting? Your cat hisses, Sevika laughs. “This one’s got guts. I like it.”

• Eventually, your cat starts curling up on her lap while she’s playing cards or sharpening her arm, and Sevika’s like, “You better not tell anyone about this.”

• She secretly respects how loyal and fearless the cat is, especially during high-stakes situations. “That furball’s got more spine than half the people I know.”

• Sevika would jokingly side-eye the cat whenever it interrupts your time together. “I get it—you’re the favorite.”

Silco

Silco would be intrigued by your cat’s protective nature but would take his time earning its trust.

• The first time the cat hisses at him, he just raises an eyebrow and calmly says, “Loyalty. A rare trait.”

• Once the cat warms up, Silco quietly appreciates its presence, occasionally letting it lounge in his office or sit on his desk.

• He admires how the cat mirrors your loyalty, seeing it as an extension of your character. “A creature so devoted is a reflection of its owner.”

• Silco would lowkey enjoy the cat’s protective instincts, smirking when it growls at anyone who gets too close to you.

Vander

Vander would LOVE your cat and its unwavering loyalty.

• The first meeting? Vander just chuckles when the cat hisses at him. “Alright, alright—I’ll win you over eventually.”

• He’d bribe the cat with scraps from the bar until it starts curling up next to him while he works. “See? Told you we’d be friends.”

• Vander appreciates how the cat follows you everywhere, especially in dangerous situations. “Good to know someone’s always got your back, even when I’m not there.”

• He’s always sneaking the cat treats, saying, “You keep looking out for ‘em, and I’ll keep looking out for you.”

Ekko

Ekko would LOVE your cat’s adventurous spirit.

• When the cat hisses at him, Ekko laughs and holds up his hands. “Okay, okay—I get it. You’re the boss.”

• Once the cat warms up, he’s geeking out over how cool it is, building it little toys out of scrap and playing with it whenever he gets the chance.

• He admires how the cat sticks with you through thick and thin, even during Firelight missions. “Your cat’s tougher than half my crew. Respect.”

• Ekko would probably try to teach the cat tricks, joking that it’s your team’s new mascot.

Jayce

Jayce would think your cat is the CUTEST thing ever.

• The first time the cat hisses at him, Jayce gasps dramatically. “Hey! I’m one of the good guys!”

• He’d try so hard to win the cat over, and when it finally lets him pet it, he’s grinning like a kid. “See? We’re friends now!”

• He loves how the cat sticks by your side no matter what, always making jokes like, “Your bodyguard’s doing a great job. I don’t even need to be here!”

• Jayce would probably try to invent something cool for the cat, like a heated bed or a high-tech collar.

Viktor

Viktor would be fascinated by your cat’s loyalty and behavior.

• The first time the cat growls at him, he tilts his head and says softly, “I suppose trust must be earned.”

• When the cat warms up, Viktor starts absentmindedly petting it while working, smiling softly when it purrs. “A loyal companion… quite remarkable.”

• He admires how the cat follows you everywhere, even into risky situations. “It seems I’m not the only one who values your presence so deeply.”

• Viktor would probably get distracted by the cat while working, letting it sit on his desk and bat at his tools.

Caitlyn

Caitlyn would be absolutely charmed by your cat and its devotion.

• The first time it hisses at her, she just smiles and steps back. “Fair enough—I’d probably be wary of me, too.”

• Once the cat accepts her, she’s all about giving it gentle head pats and sneaking it little treats.

• Caitlyn loves how the cat sticks with you everywhere, often teasing you like, “I think your companion’s better at keeping you safe than I am.”

• If the cat ever senses danger, Caitlyn takes it seriously, trusting its instincts completely.

Mel Medarda

Mel would be intrigued by your cat’s presence and loyalty.

• When the cat growls at her, she just chuckles and says, “Protective, aren’t we? I can respect that.”

• Once the cat warms up, she lets it sit in her lap during meetings, occasionally stroking its fur as she works.

• She admires the bond you have with the cat, seeing it as a reflection of your strength and loyalty. “A creature so devoted is rare. You must be someone truly special.”

• Mel would probably spoil the cat, commissioning a luxurious collar or bed for it.

Ambessa Medarda

Ambessa would find your cat’s loyalty both amusing and impressive.

• The first time the cat hisses at her, she smirks and says, “A bold one. I like that.”

• Once the cat accepts her, she quietly grows fond of it, often letting it sit beside her during quiet moments.

• She respects how the cat stays by your side no matter what, especially in dangerous situations. “You’ve chosen your allies well—even the furry ones.”

• Ambessa would probably train the cat to follow commands, just to see how far its loyalty goes.

Maddie Nolen

Maddie would immediately be soft for your cat.

• The first time it hisses at her, she’d laugh nervously and say, “Alright, tough guy—I’ll win you over eventually.”

• When the cat warms up, she’s constantly sneaking it treats and letting it curl up on her lap.

• Maddie loves how the cat is always by your side, often joking like, “You’ve got the best backup anyone could ask for.”

• If you’re ever upset, Maddie’s probably cuddling you and the cat at the same time, whispering, “We’re both here for you.”

Lest

Lest would be enchanted by your cat and its loyalty.

• When the cat growls at her, she just smiles and says softly, “It’s alright—I understand. I’ll wait until you’re ready.”

• Once the cat warms up, she’s gently stroking its fur and murmuring little compliments like, “Aren’t you a beautiful one?”

• She admires how the cat sticks by your side no matter what, seeing it as a sign of your kind and dependable nature.

• Lest would quietly make sure the cat feels as loved and cared for as you are.

[dnvrsmedia]

Season2!Sevika x reader ficlet

SEASON 2 SPOILERS UNDER THE CUT (just a screen grab)

this scene had me thinking a lot abt Sev so here’s a little ficlet for you homosexuals :)

Protective!Sevika x reader

All her life Sevika never had someone to protect her. Growing up her dad was never too kind on her. He favored turning to the bottle more than taking care of a wide eyed child. Growing up in Zaun was never easy for anyone, especially Sevika. She’s seen just how fast someone can get chewed up and spit out. Knowing that, she never let herself get close to anyone. She rather frequent Babbetts than let anyone in again. That was until she met you.

Jinx took a liking to you when you first joined Silco’s goons. That surprisingly didn’t make Sevika’s feelings for you (repressed feelings for you) die. Yet, she tried to keep you at arms length. You thought you were finally making progress, finally getting Zaun to the place that it was needed. That is…until it all went to shit with the demise of Silco.

Sevika took you in, knowing the target the both of you had from the Chembarons. During this time, she became a protector. Your protector. Sevika swore to herself that she wouldn’t let anything happen to you and it scared her. Why are you making her feel this way? She tried to push down her feelings for so long, but that backfired greatly.

You were laying on the couch when the sound of the familiar heavy footsteps make your ears perk…wait? Is that?

The door soon opens for you to see the blue haired girl you haven’t seen in weeks.

“Hey! She finally confessed about her crush I see. About damn-”

You cut Jinx off with a swift hug.

“Where the fuck did you go? I thought you died dumbass!” You smack her arm in disbelief. A grunt of distain leaves Sevika’s lips.

“You can catch up later.” She walks towards you and kisses your head.

“You okay?” Her eyes softened.

You’ve been seeing a lot of this lately. The way she looks at you, the way she looks out for you, it’s all been there. You give an affirming non and squeeze her flesh hand. You go to fetch the food you had made for the two of you, but Sev’s hand stops you from moving.

“I’m gonna make sure you-we get the zaun we deserve.” She stares fiercely into your eyes.

[starlostlix]

ARCANE S2 ACT 1 SPOILERS BELOW as I analyse the scene between Vi, Jinx, Caitlyn and Isha, what it means for them, and the link to Caitlyn's 3-point plan for the strike team.

I don't usually post about Arcane here but I need a place to talk about it without word limits so here we are. Also my comparison between MTP's telling of A scandal in Bohemia and the og will be done at some point I have just been very distracted.

So the scene I'm focusing on starts here when Isha runs up to where Jinx and Vi are fighting, lying between them a pointing a gun at Vi to protect Jinx.

Now Isha is a kid that has accidentally wandered into Jinx's life and gotten attached to her enough to wish to try and save her from danger - a new found family for Jinx alongside Sevika (who gives aunt vibes to me). But not just any kid is going to run into the line of fire like this. If we know anything about Isha now it's that she's brave - really brave - but also shouldn't have to be in this position.

Taking at look at her face, Isha's expressions seem to flick between anger and fear quite quickly. There's the facial muscles around her nose often flaring for that anger, but also a deep fear you can see too.

I think it's how she maintains focus on Jinx whilst the gun is turned away to Vi that's interesting. It's clear that she's afraid of what Vi is doing and is focused mostly on protecting Jinx - so that gun isn't something she necessarily wants to fire. She occasionally kept trying to press the trigger, but her hesitation isn't necessarily that she can't, but that she doesn't want to. She had ample time to take a very clear shot but she doesn't (this is interesting when we think about Caitlyn nearby who is desperate to take a shot even if it's not completely clear - Isha's motive is protection whereas Caitlyn's is revengeful action). And once she is unarmed all she can do is cling to Jinx. Perhaps both for her protection of Jinx or for Jinx to protect her. Like how a child would cling to a mother or father or even a bigger sister. Isha is supposed to play the role of a younger sibling to, in my eyes, mimic that of Vi and Powder that Jinx is desperate to protect.

I wanted to move on to Vi because I think her reactions/expressions are the most interesting. You get to see her face a lot, and once Isha has the gun to her face the main expression is one of fear. Not fear for her own safety, but a fear for Isha's safety, AND a fear of what she's been doing as an enforcer.

When Isha has the gun, all Vi can focus on is this mystery child - who she's never seen before might I add- suddenly appearing to protect Jinx. Even if Isha is scared she's still trying to protect her, trying to help even. Perhaps Vi sees herself here, a kid just trying to protect her loved ones from the enforcers that oppressed them. Perhaps she sees Powder, a kid throwing themselves in harms way just to try to help. Either way, she sees an innocent kid putting themselves in the line of fire to protect their loved ones. Except this time Vi is the dangerous one, rather than the protector role she used to fill.

When the gun is knocked away we see Vi again, frozen in place as she stares at Isha clinging to Jinx. This one feels so much more like a face of realisation - that Jinx still has loved ones left and that Vi has become the problem she swore to destroy. She's become the enforcer who enters Zaun to 'clear stuff up' with no regard for how it affects the people of Zaun. Instead of a protecter, she has become an aggressor.

If you will, remember Caitlyn's 3 goals - 'Locate Jinx, Dismantle Shimmer, and neutralise any agents still loyal to Silco'. I feel that this is where Vi realises that those goals only truly help the people of Piltover rather than anyone in Zaun.

1 - 'Locate Jinx' - this is basically corporate speak for Caitlyn wanting to k!ll Jinx. Originally, Vi was fine with this, seeing Jinx as a 'monster she created' and who 'taints the memory of her sister' Powder. But in doing so, she now realises that she will leave people behind who care for Jinx - Isha in particular. She's seen in her life so many kids left behind after enforcers k!lled their parents/families who then turn to rebellion (INCLUDING HERSELF AND POWDER!!) that she knows if she k!lls Jinx here with Isha as witness that the cycle will only continue - more kids who turn to violence as a result of trauma. If she were to go through with it she'd have become a direct parallel to those enforcers who killed her own parents, and she's already become a parallel to the ones who terrorised her and her family in her childhood with her activities in the Zaun strike team (especially with their usage of the Grey).

2 - 'Dismantle Shimmer' - whilst the removal of this drug is a good thing for pretty much anyone, the way the team go about it creates huge problems. The team are specifically shown to simply burn large quantities of the stuff (in the opening montage to 'Hellfire') - not only does this add more dangerous gasses to the underground areas (which they've already been releasing the Grey into), but it also creates issues for addicts. With access to it simply cut off, a decent portion of the population who are addicted to it will experience pretty dangerous withdrawal symptoms which could even lead to d3ath. With no system in place, addicts are left entirely on their own, so the destruction of Shimmer like this only helps those in Piltover remove a threat to them without actually helping the people. Meanwhile higher-ups in Piltover like Salo can use it recreationally (for his tattoos, even if frowned upon as implied by Mel's conversation with Lest).

3 - 'Neutralise any agents still loyal to Silco' - I'm pretty sure the Chembarons are considered Silco loyalists due to the Zaun strike team's attack on one of Margot's brothels in episode 2. The Chembarons, now down to 3 of them, were heralded as the only leadership of Zaun besides Silco. Their infighting has caused major issues in Zaun, but their elimination will not necessarily help Zaun in the long run. The removal of the Chembarons will leave a power vacuum, much like the one already left by Silco, that others will only step into over time. The removal of leadership in Zaun will only cause more issues as up-and-comers will try to fill the power vacuum and build their own forces, eventually becoming a new threat but not without a long period of chaos as people try to build resources to fill the vacuum. Piltover needs the removal of those with current power and forces to remove any possible threats of attack like the attack on the councillor memorial. It is, again, only for the benefit of Piltover.

Vi had seen becoming an Enforcer as the only way to bring down Jinx (reinforced by Caitlyn's insistence of doing things together and also partly by Maddie talking about what Caitlyn did to get her the job) AND as a way of protecting Caitlyn, but now I feel that she has been able to see the negative affect she's been having on the people of Zaun - her own people. I think this is why Vi switches into doing anything she can to protect Isha and Jinx, her protective side for Powder kicking back in specifically.

Looking back at Jinx, she was so ready to d!e at Vi's hands until Isha appears. Her expression here is the clearest look at her emotions we really see in the sequence - concern and fear. We know she's not afraid of dying or k!lling (especially when she said earlier before the fight that she's not remorseful of orphaning kids as she's 'done it to herself enough'), but she's so visibly afraid of Isha being hurt, and afraid that Vi would be the one to k!ll Isha. She's grown attached to Isha more than she'd like to admit, perhaps even seeing similarities to her and Powder (especially in their desire to help their family).

Once Isha's gun is shot away she clings to Jinx. Jinx at first is trying to claw her off - get her away from the danger, telling her to 'scram', referring to her simply by 'kid' so she leaves and doesn't get hurt. But when Vi is just sitting there looking rather than attacking she brings Isha in closer as a form of protection and looks at Vi. The way she looks at Vi. That's fear. She's afraid of her own sister again. She's afraid her sister will hurt an innocent kid, who's just trying to help, with a punch again. All her face says is 'Don't hurt this kid'.

And it's devastating. Devastating for both Jinx and Vi. Jinx sees her sister as a threat, whereas Vi begins to see a bit of Powder in Jinx again. She sees herself about to repeat a mistake that previously cost her everything - leaving a child alone with no support. This is also part of what turns Vi to protect Jinx and Isha from Caitlyn.

Last but not least, Caitlyn.

Caitlyn's effect on this scene can sometimes be forgotten (I almost didn't include her in this analysis at all) but it's actually bigger than one may think. I mentioned before how her desperation to k!ll Jinx causes her to shoot even when her shot is not clear (and how it contrasts Isha's reluctance to shoot even with a clear shot), but there's also so much more. For one, she shoots at the gun Isha is holding almost without a second thought. She tries to shoot Jinx whilst Isha is clinging on to her almost without a second thought. She shoots Vi's gauntlets when she tries to stop her. She frankly is unhinged at this point, tunnel vision on k!lling Jinx with no regard for anyone else in this situation, not just Isha but Vi also.

Grief is a strange thing. It can create many reactions from people depending on their situation. In Caitlyn's case, her grief has morphed into a desire for revenge and a thirst for violence, strengthening her pre-established prejudices towards Zaunites that she was so adamant in reversing in season 1. In her grief there is one constant - blame for Jinx - that morphs into further prejudices towards Zaunites as a whole to justify her actions in her own mind. She similarly justified her tunnel vision in this fight with the idea that 'she wasn't going to miss' despite missing her shot multiple times already (specifically when she shoots to k!ll Jinx and only hits her middle finger).

Her actions here are what happens when grief takes control and her usual logic and reasoning is not able to intervene as much as usual. Her insistence on not harming innocents (seen early in episode one), her understanding of how Zaunites were treated unfairly (s1 episode 7) - it's all overshadowed by her grief. However, her grief doesn't excuse her actions - she's still making decisions based on her own internalised prejudices that with her grief are projected outwards and drive her actions.

This has all culminated here, where her tunnel vision has led to her hurting Vi and almost caused her to hurt an innocent child. She's this looming threat to the scene, her hextech rifle being probably the most powerful weapon here - and it's in the hands of someone who is vengeful and seemingly trigger-happy and in a position of power she was not ready for. If Vi was a big danger in Jinx and Isha's eyes at first, there's a bigger danger in Caitlyn, one that even Vi notices. And she's only going to get worse next arc.

[There could be more to say but I think this is a great place to end it! I may make more arcane posts as s2 releases but i'll have to see, I just really wanted to talk about this scene in particular it's just so interesting.]

[thewistlingbadger]

How Silco Killed The Mining Industry And Strengthened Zaun's Economy

In season 1, it's established that mining is a popular occupation in Zaun, if not THE most popular occupation in the city. They backed this idea up in season two with a flashback scene too. However, it was also shown in season 2 that the mines in present day have been abandoned. No one's been down there in a long time, hence why things have been kept the exact same since Vander and Silco's era of revolution and why the mines have been taken over with a glowing organism. So how did this very common job basically become extinct? Why, it was Silco of course.

Thanks to flashback in season 2, we can see that not much changed in Zaun once Vander became their leader. This makes sense for two reasons. One, Vander was most likely the very first leader of Zaun (or at least the first one they've had in a long long time) and two, Vander's vision of Zaun. I'm making the first claim because had there been a leader of Zaun at the time that Silco and Vander were rallying the people, then they would have had to take down this person first before trying to take over. We don't have evidence that a person like this ever existed, so they probably didn't exist. It also makes sense on a logical standpoint. Piltover has always been afraid of a Zaun rebellion and even just Zaunite efforts to do anything of significance. A leader of Zaun would increase the threat of Zaun defecting from Piltover. So it makes sense that there was no leader of Zaun prior to Vander. Second point: After the falling out with Silco, Vander didn't have a vision for Zaun. The Nation of Zaun was the idea of the undercity being an independent nation from Piltover and it was an idea made by Vander and Silco. After the bridge, Vander completely changed his views due to the lives lost on the bridge. Which is why all we see him do is be a dad and a bartender. Everyone looks to him as their leader, and his way of leading is just him protecting his people and making sure everyone takes care of each other and sticks together. He's trying to keep things safe, he's not trying to be revolutionary, which is why everything stays the same.

But the complete OPPOSITE happens once Silco is in charge. Silco didn't give up the vision after the bridge, he fortified it. He held onto it and added to it. Silco's role in Zaun is not one of the protector, like Vander was. He didn't care about community, he cared about raising Zaun's station and gaining independence. We see in season one that once Silco takes over, Zaun becomes much more dangerous but also much more modern and wealthier than before. This is because Silco is a politician, he's running an organization. And every spot in the organization is a job, from Sevika, to the chem barons, to Marcus. Vander didn't have an organization because he wasn't a politician. By being more political than Vander, Silco has made more jobs for zaunites and thus they don't have to rely on the mines anymore. Silco is also behind Shimmer, and that industry is definitely shown to be much larger than the mining industry so far in the story. Not only does shimmer have a much larger market, but it's made and sold by Zaun. There is no Piltover involvement and so they get to keep all their profits.

Silco's own ties to the mines could also be an additional factor to why no one works in the mines anymore. We know that the work conditions in the mines were so harsh that almost everyone got exposed to The Gray, a toxic gas that was released due to excess mining. This gas was so toxic that it made the average zaunite sick and in severe cases it caused death and severe injuries. This is just one way Piltover is able to show their might over Zaun, and there's no way Silco would stand by this. Especially since he used to work in the mines with his friends; the mines are too close to Silco's past. When Silco exposed the chem barons to The Gray, they almost died, but Silco was unaffected. When talking about The Gray, he says "air so thick it clogged your throat," these were the conditions he and countless others used to work. This just shows that in the few years he's been in charge, people have stayed clear of the mines. If mining was just as big as it used to be, the no one would be reacting this severely to The Gray.

Now in season 1 Jayce says he made the gauntlets for the mining in the fissures, so it's possible that the industry still exists but is just no where NEAR the size it used to be. It could also be that Piltover hasn't even realized that the mining industry is essentially dead because they're so neglectful of Zaun and preoccupied with other stuff.

[eepyvampy]

Another arcane theory

The reason I don't think Sevika will die is because if she does team up with Jinx she'll have a major role.

She was Silco's right-hand and protected him as he was kinda the sybolism of Zaun.

Now that Jinx serves that purpouse Sevika will be her protector.

Jinx needs a caretaker, she always needed one. First Vi/Vander then Silco. Only Sevika can fill that role in the current situation.

She was always an important character due to her strenght.

I'm not insane, I swear-

[violent-viscera]

THEORY OF ENDING OF ARCANE

ok, so i should preface that while i guessed singed was orianna’s father p much right away after i read orianna’s lore (which im super proud of), im terrible w theories. but i just want to ramble a bit.

i feel like jinx is going to die at the end of the show (which i hope not bc she’s my favourite character and she’s suffered so much.)

but considering how much arcane loves parallels and tragedies, it makes sense to me.

i feel like the whole foundation of jinx/powder as a person is that she seeks to belong, family, love, and to feel useful.

this whole unending tragedy is bc of piltover’s oppression of zaun and the power struggle/imbalance there, of course. but that’s how a little girl—who is predisposed to mental health issues and deep laden insecurities—ends up accidentally blowing up her entire found family.

her deep sense of emotionality and compassion becomes her worst enemy; it’s the guilt and trauma left behind by her actions that propels her character into chaos and deviancy. she believes everything she does is bound to be cursed and she can never do anything good. or right. and it doesn’t help that her second father figure is cursed w the similar insecurities of inferiority, projects his trauma onto her to make it tenfold, and manipulates her so he doesn’t lose her.

so instead of facing her pain head on and accepting those parts of her, she leans into it and adopts the persona of jinx.

it’s less painful than being weak, fragile, sensitive powder who can’t do anything.

so, in season two, with all the scenes of jinx slowly finding morsels of powder still lingering in the depths as she adopts isha and reunited w vi (however fragile and tenuous it may be) and just seeing how that former little girl who just wanted family and be loved and to love…i feel like she will die.

except she will die this time as someone who didn’t fuck shit up and died for her cause (maybe she protects vi as we see she does when faced w feral warwick). she will be reunited w her family (her parents, silco, vander, and isha) in death and she’s been saying she’s been wanting to die anyway.

not only that but it could be the way to bring closure to the sisters in a way that is stereotypical of arcane where they reaffirm their love but also still is considered tragic. maybe as jinx is dying and the shimmer leaves her system, she dies w powder’s blue eyes.

it also would parallel silco’s death at the end of season 1 and we can see even through montages this season that their journey into darkness begun from just wanting to help.

and as i mentioned earlier, she also stepped in front of vi, shielding her from warwick whilst demonstrating her hope that vander was still intact inside (powder’s optimism and hope still alive) and vi acknowledging jinx doesn’t need her anymore as she’s a force on her own…feels like maybe jinx will protect vi instead of vi being the protector.

i could be so dead wrong and i would like to be bc i love jinx and her story, but right now so much feels so set up to jinx’s death.

like the amount of redemption arc they’re aiming for and how much powder is still left inside her (her capacity to love still is alive and well), it feels like informs me that she will die.

[billyranger]

Remember this scene?

I keep thinking about it. Silco was never really able to understand why Vander would cooperate with Enforcers to keep the Lanes ~safe. Until this point Silco has not had to make the choice between the fight for freedom and the safety of his own kid. Now he is faced with this choice and cannot choose any other way than keeping his kid safe.

As we have seen in the flashbacks Silco and Vander where close with Vi and Powders Mother Felicia.

So, here is my theory about what happened before the battle on the bridge. I think Felicia was sort of reluctant to to join the active fight and Silco and Vander persuaded her, probably telling her that its for the future of her kids that they are doing this. Then she died and I think that Vander and Silco reacted very differently.

I think Vander now saw himself as the protector (and eventually dad) to the kids who lost their parents that day, because as their leader, it was sort of his fault (in his eyes). And as a protector his first priority was to keep them safe and that means cooperation.

And Silco probably saw the loss at that battle as even more of a reason to fight for an independent Zaun. Especially for all of the kids that lost their parents, because they should grow up in a place where the leaders of did not want them exterminated and place where they could flourish and grow.

I think that was what their final confrontation was about. Vander and Silco accusing each other about now caring about all the dead and the surviving kids, but utterly unable to understand the others viewpoint. At this point Vander was probably used to being responsible for the abstract concept of "the Lanes" but being actually responsible for a bunch of children probably threw him for a loop, made him more short-tempered. And that's how things escalated.

But now Silco has Jinx. He has a kid on his own and now it all makes sense. It makes sense why Felicia was reluctant. It makes sense why Vander was so hell-bend on protecting the kids any way possible.

It all makes sense.

[lovefrombegonia]

I THINK JINX IS ALIVE.

Listen. Why would they show that scene of Caitlyn looking at the vents of that tower? Why would they show that air balloon thingy zooming away? Why would Jinx choose death still when, Ekko clearly gave her hope again?? And the BIGGEST indicator?? Jinx is super-powered fast because of shimmer. We have seen that fighting style of her again and again. She is zooming around at great speed! Too fast for human eyes to notice. All that. Is implying, that Jinx is still alive. She has chosen to move on, to walk away from her old life. Vi is happy. Zaun is finally flourishing. Piltover is safe. Vander has been put to rest. Now, it is time for her to start her own journey.

Why would she leave like that you say?? The biggest reason is because she wants Vi to live her life. To find her own happiness. For better or for worse, Vi cannot move on from Jinx. She would leave everything behind to go after her "Powder". Deep inside, even if they try to kill each other, they still love each other THE MOST. And Jinx cannot bear the one she loves so much, just halt her life like that for her. This is one more guilty too many and too great for her.

Why did she leave Ekko behind? I think the same thing applies to him. Plus, let's not forget, Ekko flourishes with or without her. Ekko is already his own person, and he is a goddamn hero. Jinx now also knows that Ekko loves her, and would risk blowing himself up with her. That's also not something she wants. She might be improving but this is still not enough for her to risk his life like that. She knows that Ekko belongs to Zaun, as a firelight leader, as their protector.

She needs to live her own life. She wants Vi and Ekko to live their own lives. She wants that without having the guilt of being a hurdle for them. As "Silco" said, this is her breaking the cycle by walking away. This is her fourth principle. Her true sacrifice. Dying was easy for her. But living to find herself again is hard. She has chosen that latter path.

[bachelor4choice]

Fans of Arcane! I'm here to bring theories!!!!

P.S.: Please, no spoilers. Especially regarding any leaks. Making theories is a big part of what makes a show fun for fans, so don’t ruin that. Good? Good.

Recently, I saw here on Tumblr a series of images about how the acts will be divided in this second season, and that gave me some clues about how Vi’s arc might unfold. Since they're focusing a lot on her, it's the "easiest" to deduce, but I have some guesses about other characters as well.

The image (not sure if it's official ¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯) is this one:

HERE WE GO!

Act 1: It would pick up immediately after the final events of the first season. Vi immediately finds herself "forced" to join Caitlyn and the Enforcers. It’s a natural progression for the character, considering what happened. Vi values herself as someone who protects those she loves. She always has been this way, so when she feels like she failed Jinx, she moves on to protect Cait. I believe, for her, it’s also a way to protect Zaun, which must fall into chaos with the power vacuum left by Silco. In this act we’d see Vi and Caitlyn grow even closer, but with so many close calls that we would die a little, because neither of them is exactly what the other needs. Both Caitlyn and Vi, in the inside, are actualy drifting away from what they initially liked in each other. Yes, it’s going to be quite painful to watch, but hey! It’s going to get worse :)

I believe the end of this act will be a confrontation between Jinx and Vi. And here, my friends, we see the downfall, because I still believe Vi won’t be able to finish off Jinx, and this will be a double failure in Vi’s "protector" nature. This will lead her to distance herself from Cait and the Enforcers, but by this point, Vi has nowhere to return to, because Zaun no longer accepts her. She has become a traitor, remember? Enter Dark Vi! At the end of this act, there will be ANOTHER breakup between Vi and Cait (without them even having started dating yet! These lesbians) and this will also push Cait to take more drastic actions, alongside Mel’s mother.

Act 2: It would start with Vi at her lowest point (I’m not looking at her arms, you are!) I believe this is also when Jinx becomes a symbol of resistance, as a response to the increasing pressure applied by Caitlyn and Medarda. As things get politically terrible, Vi continues to lose her sense of self. That’s why she drinks so much and why the ex-enforcer takes her to those underground fights. She keeps hallucinating about Caitlyn because, again, she feels like she’s failed. She couldn’t help Caitlyn because she couldn’t stop protecting Jinx. For her, this whole situation is lose-lose. Seeing Caitlyn drift further from who she truly is also deeply affects Vi.

I’ve always admired Caitlyn’s character for her rationality and compassion. She’s smart, determined, focused, but sweet (like a Cupcake). Seeing someone you care about lose that side of themselves because of your own sister… Yeah, I’d be drinking too. This would explain why Vi hallucinates about the Caitlyn from the first season. At the same time, with Jinx being exalted as a symbol, Vi sees exactly what she’s lost: the sister who was supposed to grow up and help Zaun. Everyone viewing Jinx this way, when she definitely ISN’T like that anymore, is like rubbing salt in the wound.

I believe Vi’s downfall will take up an entire episode. Two things could happen to end Dark Vi. Jinx, as we see her watching the fights and even betting on Vi. (Same Symbol)

Yep, in the new images, Vi isn’t hallucinating about Jinx, only about Cait. Jinx is going to watch Vi spiraling and I think she’s going to HATE it. I do believe Jinx has changed, but I think she still prefers to see Vi distant but doing okay, rather than close and falling apart. I think this would be an interesting trait for Jinx. Now, throwing in a wild guess: I think Jinx herself is going to seek out Caitlyn. Cait, by the way, is likely spiraling too, but unlike Vi, she has other ways to self-destruct (work).

So, my theory for the end of Act 2 is that Jinx is going to show Cait the state Vi’s in and say, “Look at this disaster lesbian!” This will lead to a really sweet moment where Cait finally reconnects with her compassionate side—caring about others' pain, not just her own (get ready to cry here. If this really happens, I want ALL of it! From tending to Vi’s wounds and alcoholism to a heart-wrenching confession in the middle).

HOWEVER, I don’t think Cait’s return will be the only catalyst. Here’s where the battle with Warwick comes in! Wouldn’t it be tragic if Vander, once again, is responsible for making Vi rediscover her value as the protector of those she loves? Because I think that’s exactly what’s going to happen—fighting this version of Vander will be the final nail in the coffin for Dark Vi. Oh, Vander, helping Vi even now.

Act 3: We’ll finally have Vi and Cait on the same page (you know that sex scene? Probably here, and I think it’s going to lean more towards sweet than sexy. Something tasteful, definitely).

Vi will be an Enforcer, but not to hunt Jinx—rather, to help Zaun and protect everyone, including Piltover, from Empress Medarda’s grip. After all, with Cait no longer obsessed with taking down Jinx, Medarda’s influence over Caitlyn will come to an end. The only leverage Medarda has over Cait is her anger, and when that’s no longer in play, Cait’s rational side kicks back in. She’ll realize that for Medarda, it was never about justice—it was about Hextech. This realization will be what unites everyone: Zaun and Piltover will come together, fighting against Medarda.

Oil and Walter.

As for Cait, there are definitely some missing pieces. Just as Vi has Warwick, Cait is going to have something beyond Jinx/Vi. But since there’s so little information about the other characters, it’s hard to say who. There’s bound to be something more than just the power of love. What’s important is that during the third act, we’ll already have Cait and Vi as Piltover’s Finest! In those perfect black uniforms.

Well, that's basically it! See you in November, when Arcane becomes my entire personality!

[snakes-of-the-undercity]

My thoughts on the end of act 2 (heavy warning for spoilers) -

Vander’s end/the death of Isha -

Vander’s last love was violence. He could never escape it, he could never be separated from it. And so instead he buried it, turned his violence into fuel to protect his own, his first love; his family. But, as Jinx said in the first season, ‘nothing ever stays gone’. He was never delusioned enough to believe that his violence was gone, but he thought he could control it. He couldn’t and that manifested itself in Warwick. Though I doubt Warwick is dead, Vander now most certainly is.

He died to the hand of that which he loved; his family. He died trying to protect them, he died while bringing them together. I’m not sure what this will do to the family of the heart of Zaun but I hope this will not destroy them. They all carry something of his, it would be a shame to waste it.

Vi holds his violence, Jinx his madness, and Sevika his ideals, though those are only surface level things. Sevika also holds his violence and his drive for family, Jinx holds his want for peace (surprising as that is) and isolation, his escapism, and Vi holds his drive, his want for things to get better, his need for others to be safe. Of course there’s other things they embody, but at the end of the day the story of the heart of Zaun is a story about fathers. How Vander was a father to Vi and Jinx, how Vi was a sort of father to Powder, how Sevika’s own father shaped her into being this protector and king maker of Zaun, how they are dealing of the repercussions of fathers (Silco and Singed), and how they were all a ‘father’ in some way to Isha.

In that same way it is a show about daughters and death. How one single act of ignorance, a drive to help that was seen as such good at first can turn from beauty to bodies lain across the rubble of these cities. How Jinx’s sister, her ward, died trying to help. Died in the way Powder did. And now, once again, vander has died. Their family is shattered once again. And once again they lost their father to a well meaning little girl.

Because at the end of the day this is a story of fathers and daughters, of family.

And, at the end of the day, this story is a tragedy.

Authors note - Might not be cooking with this, I am very sleep deprived— just finished watching and typed this out so yeah! Probs will have more + some old art later

[dissapointu]

S/O headcanons for Arcane characters, with insights into their relationships and personalities—and just a hint of spice.

Jinx

• Dynamic Relationship: Being Jinx’s partner is a wild ride. You match her chaos with a steadying presence, though she loves when you embrace her mischief and join in her unpredictable schemes.

• Tender Moments: Amid the mania, she has soft, quiet moments where she clings to you like you’re her anchor in a storm.

• Playful Possessiveness: Jinx doesn’t like sharing, and her jealousy can manifest in teasing or even explosive antics. But it’s all because she’s terrified of losing you.

• Smut: In the bedroom, her energy translates into passionate, adventurous encounters. She’s a mix of teasing and intensity, eager to explore boundaries while craving your undivided attention.

Vi

• Supportive Partnership: Vi thrives in a relationship built on mutual respect and trust. You’re her equal, her teammate, and she loves having someone she can count on.

• Protective Nature: She’s fiercely protective, always watching your back—whether it’s in a fight or just keeping creeps away from you in a bar.

• Soft Side: Behind closed doors, Vi is surprisingly tender. She loves cuddling after a long day, running her fingers through your hair as she unwinds.

• Smut: Vi brings a mix of strength and care to the bedroom. She loves taking charge, but her primary focus is on your pleasure, making sure you feel safe and cherished throughout.

Sevika

• Power Couple Energy: Your relationship with Sevika is built on mutual respect, shared ambition, and unshakable loyalty.

• No-Nonsense Partner: Sevika isn’t one for grand romantic gestures, but her steady presence and protective nature speak volumes. She values action over words.

• Playful Rivalry: You have a habit of teasing her about her tough exterior, which often leads to her pulling you into her lap to “prove a point.”

• Smut: She’s dominant, confident, and incredibly attentive in intimate moments. Her roughness is balanced by her deep care for you, leaving you breathless every time.

Silco

• Calculated Devotion: Silco is methodical in all things, including his love for you. He shows his affection through thoughtful gestures and by ensuring your safety and comfort.

• Unwavering Loyalty: Once you’ve earned Silco’s trust, his loyalty is unshakable. He values you as both a partner and confidant, involving you in his plans.

• Softness Beneath the Ruthlessness: With you, Silco lets his guard down, showing a vulnerability he hides from everyone else.

• Smut: Silco approaches intimacy with the same intensity as his ambitions. He’s meticulous, attentive, and deeply focused on every reaction you give, making every moment unforgettable.

Vander

• Gentle Protector: Vander’s love is warm and steady, a calming presence in your life. He’s always looking out for you, ensuring you feel safe and cared for.

• Community Leader: He values your input and often turns to you for advice when making decisions for the people of Zaun.

• Family-Oriented: Vander dreams of building a family with you, creating a life filled with love and stability despite the chaos around you.

• Smut: Intimacy with Vander is tender and passionate. He’s all about connecting with you on a deeper level, taking his time to make sure you feel cherished.

Ekko

• Energetic and Fun: Ekko loves having fun with you, whether it’s racing through the streets of Zaun or sharing quiet moments on rooftops under the stars.

• Creative Bond: He adores your creativity and often includes you in his projects, bouncing ideas back and forth in a whirlwind of innovation.

• Deep Conversations: While Ekko is playful, he also has a reflective side. He loves talking with you about the future, his dreams, and his fears.

• Smut: Ekko’s passion shines in the bedroom. He’s attentive, experimental, and loves finding new ways to make you laugh and gasp in equal measure.

Jayce

• Loving and Charismatic: Jayce is a passionate partner who loves to show off his affection for you, whether it’s through big romantic gestures or sweet little surprises.

• Driven by Ambition: He involves you in his dreams, often seeking your advice and support as he works toward building a brighter future.

• Playful Banter: Jayce loves teasing you and is always up for lighthearted debates that often end in laughter.

• Smut: Jayce is confident and adventurous in intimate moments. He’s all about making you feel adored, often indulging in your desires with enthusiasm.

Viktor

• Quiet Devotion: Viktor isn’t overly expressive, but his love for you is clear in his actions. He’s always finding ways to support you, even in small, thoughtful ways.

• Intellectual Connection: He values your intelligence and loves discussing ideas with you. Together, you’re a powerhouse of innovation and understanding.

• Gentle Vulnerability: Viktor opens up to you about his fears and insecurities, trusting you in ways he doesn’t trust others.

• Smut: Intimacy with Viktor is deeply intimate and exploratory. He loves taking his time with you, ensuring every moment is meaningful and full of connection.

Caitlyn

• Supportive and Caring: Caitlyn is incredibly attentive to your needs, always going out of her way to ensure you feel loved and supported.

• Adventurous Spirit: She loves taking you on adventures, whether it’s exploring Piltover or introducing you to her world of investigations.

• Sophisticated Romance: Caitlyn enjoys spoiling you with fine dining, elegant gifts, and heartfelt letters. She’s a traditional romantic at heart.

• Smut: Caitlyn is surprisingly bold in intimate moments. She loves exploring your boundaries, balancing tenderness with a playful assertiveness that keeps things exciting.

[endysfrair]

Sevika and Jinx Unite | Note on Sneak Peek "Enemy of My Enemy"

I just set the timer to post a note on the Arcane Season 2 trailer when "Sneak Peek | Enemy of my Enemy" came out 2 hours ago.

The developers are nicely feeding the audience with such moments, which also give a lot of new information. I don't know what kind of animal this is and what it fights for, but it clearly doesn't like Silco, which is why it needed Jinx to blackmail him or give her to Piltover. Perhaps he is the other side of Zaun? Ekko is the protector of civilians while this creature wants to take Silco's place.

We also see Sevika protect Jinx, and the title of the video suggests that we might see these ladies unite to stay afloat in the war that is already approaching Zaun. Especially when they are left without a "head" in the form of Silco, who could think of a plan many steps ahead.

Only on the storyline of interactions between Sevika and Jinx, how they “disliked” each other in the first season and what results this led to in relation to themselves. Based on the shown their possible unification, we can understand that a new era is coming for all of Piltover.

Jinx also said to follow me. There will be more information on the Arcane Season 2 trailer, notes on games, thoughts on anime and cartoons, and also gaming news. Yes, that's what she said. ^^

Your Shadow Cultist

[tumblezwei]

I definitely feel more on board with the “Jinx leaving Piltover/Zaun behind” ending when I realized there’s bits of hinting at it throughout S2. Even in S1 during her tea party in the last episode, Vi suggesting that they just Go and leave it all behind was one of the few things Vi said that seemed, like. Interesting? To her? Like it caught her attention in a way that felt like she’d be on board. And again in S2 where she’s talking to Silco’s chair and saying that if he’s really gone there’s no reason to stay.

On a shitpostier note: I think it’s a really funny idea if Sevika knows Jinx is alive and that she wants to leave Piltover and thinks to herself “Well I’m about to be a councilor and if Jinx is off causing chaos and mischief elsewhere I can save myself the trouble of dying from a stress induced heart attack in 2-3 years so yeah fuck it let’s get you on a blimp kid stay safe be sure to write or whatever”

I literally just posted something about it so yeah I agree lmao. Jinx's loyalty was never truly to Zaun, her motivations have always been more selfish than that. And I mean that in the most loving way possible bc she's my pookie.

And hell yeah, I like the idea of the only two people knowing Jinx is alive being Caitlyn and Sevika. Maybe Vi has a suspicion but she finally understands that she can let Jinx go on her own and doesn't push into finding out.

I like to imagine that Sevika was there for Jinx's send off. They stole the airship together and get some closure on their weird relationship with one another. Sevika officially unofficially gets the mantle of Zaun's Protector, and Jinx gets to say goodbye to her last connection to Silco.

[some-pers0n]

Trying to organize my thoughts on season 2 of Arcane just gimme a second..

I don't think I'm alone in saying that this season felt...off. Different. Even when watching act 1, part way though I got this feeling that this was different than the season 1. I kinda just chalked it up to me not rewatching the series before going into season 2 and my memory being hazy, but there was this tone shift that felt different. Odd

I think act 2 and especially act 3 is what put it into words: the shift from a grounded narrative with the central conflict being about familial connections and the political conflict between Piltover and Zaun into a more fantastical and magical series that relies more on action and moments of drama for shock than it is for trying to tell a complicated story.

In season 1, the narrative was essentially all about Piltover and Zaun, with Vi and Jinx being emblematic of the divide between the two. They're sister cites, so it only makes sense for these two to represent them. Viktor, Jayce, and Mel's storyline was intriguing and acted as a means to progress the narrative as well as add contrast. They represented Piltover at its highest. The elites in the gilded towers that tinkered with their toys whilst those in the underground struggled to survive. Viktor added a bit of nuance to it as he's a Zaunite and feels out of place there, even if he's told he's one of them.

The plot was a political drama almost, with conflicting narratives and sides. It took its time and savoured the moments in-between. It marinated the plot and made interesting and unique characters with this fascinating dynamic nature to it. Silco and Jinx still stick out in my mind as being really fun characters to dissect and look at. They had flaws and this unique feeling to it that rooted the series in realism despite its fantastical nature.

Jinx and Vi and their whole situation was meant to be a parallel to Zuan and Piltover the greater themes of oppression, revolution, so on and so forth. Jinx was this erratic, unpredictable character who went through so damn much and is trying to find her way through this messy and conflicted life she's found herself in. Vi was this emotionally repressed protector who's main objective is surviving and keeping her loved ones safe. There is this massive overhanging feeling of tragedy to them. When Powder tried to help out and ended up killing her adoptive family, with the last remaining member pushing her away. When Vi storms off and breaks down crying, feeling so much sadness and remorse, only to then be captured before she can go back to Powder.

Season 1 felt so brutal. Season 1 felt like this grounded story. Yes of course this is League of Legends of all things and there's stuff with magic and runes and such, and I do like that! I like my fantasy stuff, don't get me wrong, but season 1 felt like it would forgo the typical fantasy narratives of good VS evil and be more entertained with the political commentary of poverty and societal divides.

Season 1 was about Jinx and Vi. It always was. They were the protagonists of the series. The other cast members were very important as well, but everything revolved around them in this dark, brutal narrative of family ties and relationships.

And season 2...kinda just cast them to the side. I liked the Viktor, Jayce, and Mel stuff in season 1 a lot, but tossing aside what as essentially the main characters of Arcane for them felt so strange and unnatural.

I never really felt that magic of season 1 when watching season 2. The scene where Powder sets off the monkey bomb and the resulting fire and argument kept playing in my head over and over. I kept thinking of how season 1 ended, and how despite being a lot less high-stakes, it felt so much more grounded and somber. It felt gut-wrenching to see Jinx kill Silco and, at last, take on that name proper.

And with season 2...nothing. Isha sacrificing herself was sad, sure, but it felt like it was coming a mile away. Warwick didn't feel necessarily integrated in the best way either, even if those water colour montages did get a lil' tear out of me. The ending either. It felt too off. Fantastical. Going from season 1, where the final conflict was essentially just Jinx making Vi choose between Powder or Caitlyn, to season 2, where now Viktor was on a world-conquest as the Machine Herald and now everything is a timeloop caused by Jayce and Viktor being interconnected soulmates or whatever from the arcane itself just felt...odd. When you raise stakes so high, it can be harder to connect emotionally.

And, look, I knew what was going to happen with Viktor. I knew about the Machine Herald and how, most definitely, this was going to be the route his character would take. However, it felt so...strange how the series went in that direction. It violently veered into the magic runes and hextech stuff out of nowhere. Hextech in season 1 felt more like a reason for having all these cool gadgets and such, with Viktor and the hexcore being this side thing with him succumbing to his hubris and desire for progress. Hell, the Mel stuff felt completely out of nowhere! Like all of a sudden we're seeing Ambessa interact with this "Black Rose" thing and it's not really given a proper explanation or reason.

I don't know. It felt like the story had completely flipped and now the characters who were once the main leads were cast to the side. Vi barely even felt like a competent character in this season. She was constantly getting beaten up and losing fights and generally didn't have a lot going on. It felt like it lacked a lot of those meaningful character moments from season 1 that I adored so much. I liked the character drama of act 1 with Cait and Vi. I liked how it showed that fascism is an inherently emotional ideology. I quite enjoyed how it showed that Cait didn't go through anything too dissimilar to the Zaunites and how it points out hypocrisy with Cait (upper-class woman in power) feeling vindicated for her revenge against Zaun whilst condemning Zaun for doing so much as resisting. It was fun to see.

Then...the Zaun and Piltover plotline just drops. In fact, they JOIN SIDES at the end because of Viktor and Ambessa, which is. certainly a choice. Same with having the choice of having Jinx, who's actively trying to kill herself because she's convinced the only way to break the cycle of her own creation is by ending her own life, sacrifice herself. Sure yeah she's probably not dead as the show gives a lot of allusions to her escaping (what with the shimmer dash, no sight of a body, and the emphasis on there being vents that Jinx could've escaped through) but it's still certainly a decision. I obviously expected Jinx to be distraught after losing Isha since yet another person she loves and cares about dies, but yeah that was...something. If she isn't really dead actually, then why do the fakeout at all?? So her showing up in some spin-off is meaningful? Zero clue.

I dunno. Having the political plot be completely tossed out because of the "well we have to team up because there's a new and far scarier threat that can destroy us both!" trope feels like the opposite vibe of season 1. Hell, just earlier in season 2 there was a whole point about Zaun feeling particularly a lot of unrest due to Jinx becoming a new symbol of resistance and uprising. The Zaunites just join sides because?..

And to go back to the character bit thing...it just felt like it lacked those character moments. The dialogue also felt a bit off in ways I can't exactly describe. Maybe the dialogue was always like that and I never noticed when watching season 1, but I can't recall. Act 1 was a nice change because it switched around Cait and Vi's dynamic, with Caitlyn being stoic and emotionally closed-off due to her mother's death and Vi trying to get her to open up and more more, but otherwise it felt like a great departure in character writing. It was fun and nice, but it lacked this layer of complexity that I liked so much about season 1.

The whole Viktor and Jayce stuff also felt kinda wacky. Again, I feel like the fantasy elements were too jarring of a shift in tone from how grounded season 1 is. Saying this as a massive fan of stuff that's weird and cosmic and hard to understand!! I eat that kind of stuff up! It just feels too different than what I expected from the show and it didn't ease into it as much to make it feel like a logical conclusion.

Ekko too. Poor Ekko. One of my gripes with Ekko in season 1 was how shafted he was and then now in season 2 it feels like he gets more of a spotlight, yet not nearly enough as he should.

I think that's the main running theme of this season: not enough time. Honestly I felt like the episodes should've either been extended to an hour or had one whole new episode. It just felt like so much was crammed into one singular season that makes it look completely alien from season 1. I mentioned Mel's stuff before, but I really think it's quite a great example here. Her whole bit with the Black Rose and being a mage just felt. unearned and rushed. So incredibly sloppy. It was cool as hell, don't get me wrong! Just...awkward. She felt like this interesting and mature political figure in season 1 and then kinda got like a pseduo-superhero narrative with her being this magic user.

Season 2 seemed to go for spectacle and style over story. It was gorgeous and beautifully animated, but the narrative left a lot to be desired. The final battle was cool as hell and I loved seeing all the action, but it felt so sudden.

I dunno. You can argue that Vi and Jinx aren't really the main characters of Arcane and that Jayce and Viktor's conflict of trying to make the world better but failing is just as important, but just...I dunno. It felt like it dropped the ball. Maybe when a week or a month has passed and the initial shock and hype has died down I'll think more about it. Contemplate and such