#so criticism does not come often and if it does it can easily be ignored bc we’ll it’s a hc and/or opinion

[titansarmy]

(Hi same anon as before I’m just shy TT) I stopped keeping up with the series until recently because of willnico and how I saw nicos character be assassinated in the name of facilitating their relationship. I really hate the doctor x patient dynamic in general so pairing that with a lack of respect for established boundaries … what a mess imo. Still haunted by the text comparing wills looks to Jason in (I believe?) boo it says they have completely different personalities but uh. Hell of a choice to include that? I just feel so bummed out thinking about solangelo because I really hoped ever since I was a kid reading the series that nico would get friends who respected him and maybe date a nice boy along the way but it feels like I’ve just been hit in the face several times over with what we actually got in canon. A forced between one of the more important characters to the canon and a guy who was first mentioned in tlo then brought back later into the hoo series. People don’t care about either of them being ooc because as I’ve seen in the tags people prefer will being a blank slate for them to make into whatever they want for fanfic and they’ll rationalize any of his actions while demonizing other characters because they want to defend their fanfic love interest turned canon significant bother

i also stopped keeping up until literally a few months back when i decided to revisit the books and then they crept up on me again :) it happens. but yeah omg nico's character....... idk what's happened but that's not my boy. GOD YES OMG i also dislike doctor x patient dynamics and/or grumpy x sunshine so solangelo was a tough sell but still i was OPEN to them and yet.

WAIT THE BOO COMPARISON YES omg. i think it's something like "jason's a fighter. will is not". it was definitely a Choice. they did will so dirty from the very start :’(

no because for real !!!! will is a blank slate which i think also makes it easy for a lot of people to have created a very lovely cute and nice solangelo and will image so criticism is not taken very lightly. even if people are criticizing canon it gets all mixed up with fanon and then it all becomes a big misunderstanding mess. especially will bc i think he’s grown as a fanon character and now suddenly he has an actual more developed canon and it’s well it makes things tricky

[blusthings]

Allow me to yap about deck9, new games and shipping.

I'd like to comment on the whole Pricefield break up in Deck9's LIS DE game. Life is Strange is the game that indirectly contributed to me coming out. I cannot tell you how huge and dramatic of an impact this game had on me, the first game will forever hold a special place in my heart.

The center of why I was so attached to the game was Pricefield, specifically Chloe. I saw some of my characteristics in her, I was often left behind by my friends, I forgive very easily and I love so fast and so fierce it might scare some people off.

The dedication that chloe and Max had especially towards the end of the game was unique.

Now I know that some critics out there will point out just how fucking toxic Chloe was (being possessive, jealous, pushing Max to do bad things etc). And I should know, I had an ex-friend who was possessive and jealous so I understand where they're coming from. But that just adds more depth to Chloe's character. She's fucked up, she's a mess... And yet...

She does this. She still loves, has the capability to love after all that's happened. Plus also yeah everyone loves the blue haired punk lesbian.

But come on, the last scene where we had to choose Bay or Bae was... phenomenal. I cried so fucking hard after the Bae ending. I cried just as hard when I saw the LIS2 pricefield picture because it gave me closure. I grew attached to this couple (and chloe specifically) because of the qualities I see in me mirrored in her.

So it came as a shock to me when Deck9 said "mm fuck that" and just threw my Bae choice to trash. The duo separates. And honestly? I can live with that. I could respect that choice. This isn't a shipping war (unlike what some in the fandom might insist) this is simply another Joel Death and TLOU2 dilemma.

But to shit on Chloe? To reduce her to THIS

I couldn't believe what I read. It made me so upset that not only do they break up a duo I absolutely admire, but they also villian-ify Chloe in a way that just isn't true to her character.

Some would say "why should your opinion matter?" And to that I'd reply "It should, I am only one in the thousands of voices who belong to players that absolutely cherished LIS for ages." If our voices don't count, why even bother making a game for us to play?

I've seen people refunding. Other chose to buy the game and see how it all pans out. I can respect that. But to those who are actively harassing the studio employees??? Please grow up. Shitty game or not, in the end it's just that: a game. Sure, a game that we adore. But it ain't a cult bro. You can't harass people for just doing their jobs.

My solution? Ignorance is bliss, if you'd like to ship Pricefield fucking GO for it. I will personally reject the Deck9's mess, and keep drawing and enjoying the ship closest to my heart.

[crazyforclones]

I am so ill over Mario and Peach

Continue reading to listen to me absolutely lose my mind over these goobers

Establishing character:

I just adore Mario and Peach so much. And before I get those funny people always like “oh Mario hates peach,” or “peach never “gives” Mario anything for saving her! He probably only does it to get something from her-“ Ima need yall to shut your trap ok 👹

First of all, Nintendo, especially with Mario characters, had no idea how to characterize their characters in the beginning. Peach changes in almost every single different medium. Take the old Nintendo power (I think) comic called the “super Mario adventures.” in which Peach is a lot more outgoing, strong, sassy, and a literal general.

Not saying this is a bad rendition of peach I actually like it! But I use it as an example of how these characters have changed over the years. And also, often times in games or stories like these where they focus more on the characters than gameplay, we see a more accurate and fleshed out character. Which is why in some other Mario games, characters often say things that might seem rude or out of character but is put there for comedy. (Nintendo obsession with making fun of Luigi in every rpg game is an example 💀). And the same goes for Mario, he’s changed a lot. But I feel in the current renditions of the characters, they have a much more stable idea of their character.

Also another cute picture from the comic-(sorry quality poopy I took it from mine)

This is peach dreaming about marrying Mario btw.

Mario’s character:

From what we see now, Mario is just an average blue collar man in his late twenty’s who is quite short and also plump. Despite this he is still THE most brave, athletic, talented, determined, occasionally hot headed, and an overall idol to the entire mushroom kingdom. He is often labeled as THE Mario. And people also express their surprised when they actually see what he looks like 💀. But the reason I bring this up is Mario is quite literally just some guy. He’s some guy who entered this foreign kingdom, heard there was a Princess in trouble, and as a New York Italien blue collar worker he could’ve easily just went on with his day or ignored these random peoples pleas, but instead, he immediately decides he will travel multiple worlds so he can save this princess and help the kingdom (also cause the game needed a incentive but still-). From the get go mario was ready to help people. He helps them not expecting anything in return, but because he has a good sense of Justice. There’s hundreds of side quests you can do with Mario, sometimes they’re ridiculous. But you know what? Mario will do it. Because he likes helping people. Because he’s a role model. And because he’s just a good guy.

Mario and Peach as a couple:

Most of the time, people who criticize or make fun of their relationship are often doing it as a joke which is fine, but this is for the people who genuinely think Peach is a jerk for not giving Mario “more” for what he does.

People often say “Mario has saved her so many times and all he gets is a kiss on the cheek!”

Now despite the fact Peach doesn’t owe Mario anything just because he saved her, I can see why people might be upset over this. However, like I said before, Mario does things not expecting rewards, but just because it’s the right thing to do and he has a duty.

People forget one dire things when it comes to love like this:

Love can be shown in many different ways

Peach kissing Mario in the cheek wasn’t proof that they were in love or together. I’d argue they weren’t really at all in the beginning. Except maybe a slight crush. A kiss on the cheek is often just a gesture of gratitude. Peach usually kissed anyone who saved her. It’s just her way of saying thank you.

What really shows that Mario and peach love one another is how they interact. The things they say and do. They don’t need to kiss to prove they’re in love, it’s simply implied with how they interact with one another. Whether it’s small gestures like holding one’s hand before a big game, or something such as trusting the other person to give you a boost so you can save your partners rabbid version of themselves from an evil space fish.

Or! It can be something more direct, like peach literally looking Mario in the eyes and saying this:

Or when she is scared but assured herself she will be ok as long as she has Mario!

It’s these little things that speak larger than words. Mario and peach simply have a relationship that is there but doesn’t need to be forced down your throats to convince you that they’re in love. They simply are. And their love is shown in many ways. Love comes in all shapes and sizes, and so does Mario and Peach!

Now have Mario dancing like a middle aged dad snapping his little fingers to make Peach laugh :)

[maladaptiveobsession]

yandere adam headcanons

contains: brief dubcon mention, manipulation, emotional/mental abuse, degradation

yandere adam

who, under all the false bravado, is insecure. cuckolded twice—and by the same man no less—how could he not be? the overwhelming anxiety of losing you haunts him. try as he might, loud vulgarities make terrible compensation for confidence.

who sabotages any meaningful relationships. what do you mean you’re lonely? this is heaven; you’re surrounded by others! the company you keep never satisfies your desire for connection, seemingly close yet just out of reach. despite your best efforts, you couldn’t seem to form any deep attachments. the mental isolation will wear you down and warp your thoughts. were you even worth keeping around? distraught and rejected, adam will pull you out of the depths of your despair. who needs those stains? they don’t appreciate you like he does; don’t care for you like he does. you can see it now, can’t you? he’s the only one for you.

who openly tears you down with stinging criticism, finding fault in all that you do. his denigrations are no more than projected insecurities. though he casts a confident image, he is doubtful and hesitant. his harassment is subtle; any concerns you bring up brushed off and met with admonishment. don’t be so sensitive! that’s just how he is! you must be misunderstanding him. adam himself hardly recognizes his arraignment, sending crude remarks your way merely out of habit. he’s never meant any of it, often leaving himself wondering why he pressures you so much. it’s not that he takes pleasure in your dejection, but rather that he subconsciously recognizes his own faults. he knows he’s no good for you and that you deserve better. so he tears you down as he does himself, hoping that if you have no confidence in yourself, you’ll settle for him. though he means none of what he says, don’t expect any apologies. he’s convinced himself he’s above apologies, above you.

who takes what he wants, always pushing your boundaries, never asking for permission. it’s only natural; you belong to him. i mean, who asks their toys for consent to play? things would be so much simpler if you just cooperated. who cares if he plays a little rough? you can take it. that being said, adam views you less as an object and more as an extension of him.

who’s never far. what do you mean you’re going out? don’t go anywhere just yet; he’s coming with. no matter the destination or occasion, he’ll be there. what if you never come back? what if you leave him?

who’s entitled. he was the first soul to enter heaven; he’s earned this! you think you’re too good for him or something? you should be happy that he chose you! he has plenty of sluts lined up to ride the original dick; he could easily replace you. empty threats, yet stinging all the same.

who craves your worship. paradoxical as it is, he is annoyingly conceited yet also self-deprecating. having been divorced twice, he often worries he’s inadequate. so he overcompensates confidence to the point of arrogance. his doubt in your faithfulness connects to his past trauma, so compliment his features, praise his accomplishments, and let him know just how much you appreciate and enjoy being around him. he may not say thank you, but you can tell just how much he values your opinions.

who demands your attention. evading him is nearly impossible. he’ll take offense, of course, but ultimately see it as a challenge. clearly you were ignoring him because you wanted his attention! why else would you avoid him? no worries, babe! he’s all yours! isn’t he so generous?

who shows you off, proudly announcing your relation to everyone you meet. all of heaven, perhaps even some of hell, will know of you. whether you’re with adam or not, crowds will whisper, point, and goggle as you wander. you’re his bitch, hot stuff! get used to it! he wants everyone to see just how out of reach you are. you’re his, only his

who derives no pleasure from hurting you. adam will never physically harm you. underneath that crude exterior, he truly does care for you. he can give you everything, anything! just don’t abandon him. to keep you by his side, nothing is above him.

[wrenswreath]

can you elaborate on your post about choices? i haven't read it but ive seen a lot of discourse so I was curious as to what your views were on it!

Just a warning but this is going to be loooonnnggg.

---

I think that Choices was very well written, specifically when it comes to the characterisation of its characters. I know it gets a lot of criticism for making James morally grey, making Lily a flawed (read: human) character, and the attitudes towards Mary's trauma, so I'll talk a bit more about those.

James' character:

In Choices, James isn't the embodiment of kindness, like the fandom tends to characterise him. He excuses a lot of bad things that Regulus did, cheats on Lily, and then tried to 'play the victim,' so to speak, when Lily found out, often prioritising trying to get her to understand as opposed to thinking about her feelings. And a lot of people don't like this - I think it's because they struggle with the fact that a likeable character, one that is often showed with little to no flaws, does something that they simply cannot morally agree with. It's hard to justify having James as a favourite character when he's suddenly not 'good enough' to still be a fav.

But in Choices, it's not about having a good, likeable character; it's about showing the (often unexplored) flawed versions of these people - challenging the concepts of a 'good' person, and a 'bad' one, because no one in this fic is strictly one of the other. And realistically, you cannot have canon-compliant Jegulus and have a righteous James, because Regulus does do bad things, and James has to excuse that for their relationship to work.

Lily's character:

When one would think 'canon-compliant Jegulus,' the Jily tends to get ignored often - it's just something that 'has to happen', but no one really wants it. But this fic doesn't ignore the Jily - it's very there, very present, and it's something that people don’t like. They barely tolerate James and Lily together, but when Lily is also her own independent character outside of James, and calls James out for his bullshit, instead of being the quiet, complacent, and 'understanding' wife people would rather she be, people get annoyed with her really easily. 

She, like every other character, is shown to be flawed and imperfect, and people aren't used to seeing that with the women characters in the marauders era. This leads to people calling it 'poor characterisation' because she is catering to her own needs, instead of making 'poor James' feel better. She's given depth, taken down from the pedestal the fandom puts women on, and people do not like the unfamiliar, so they do not like a version of Lily that they aren't used to seeing. 

Mary's trauma:

In Choices, Mary gets sexually assaulted. This isn't addressed well by the characters in the story - it's more of an 'oh no I'm sorry this happened to you. Anyway.' People often mistake this as a reflection of the writer - criticising MesserMoon for poorly handling Mary's SA, saying that Mary's trauma was overlooked, etc. And I have two things to say to that:

One being that this fic isn't told through Mary's perspective. This fic is mainly Regulus and James focused - Regulus, being part of the cover up of the SA obviously does not care about her, only his own reputation. James is a bit better, but he’s too focused on Regulus to care much about Mary. This is what we call an unreliable narrator. Because it is told from these perspectives, Mary's trauma isn't often thought about, brought up, etc., which can be upsetting, but it’s a reflection of the main characters' priorities (NOT THE AUTHOR'S!!!).

Second being this is a realistic portrayal of a black, muggleborn woman getting raped in the 70's. She does not get the justice that she deserves, but this is used as a way to highlight the problems people like Mary faced - people still face these issues today. On the flip side, the rapists were upper-class, pureblood, etc. To say that consequences should have been given is to completely deny the social structures that do exist and advantages anyone who is a man, who is white - all those positions of privilege.

Choices manages to handle issues of sexism and racism without actually being sexist and racist, but people constantly misinterpret it. Just because something is present in this fic, it does not mean it was aimed to be viewed positively by its readers.

Overall, I think Choices manages to handle issues and the complexity of people really well, acknowledging that there is no such thing as 'good' people and 'bad people.' However, a lot of its readers cannot successfully analyse the themes in the fic, often viewing it one-dimensionally as opposed to recognising the many layers and skewed perspectives it contains. The lack of media literacy in people is often what causes the discourse surrounding it, because this fic is not 'mischaracterisation' nor 'misogynistic'. It is simply complex.

[familyabolisher]

> there exists an arbitrary social distinction between ‘STEM’ and ‘humanities’ which (put crudely) invests greater intellectual merit in STEM as a category of learning more directly involved with positivism and empirical deductions & with a greater capacity for describing an ‘objective’ reality, as opposed to ‘humanities’ as a subject area with less deference to positivism and more deference to subjectivity and fewer obvious methodological paradigms

> this objective/subjective binary gets translated into what is effectively a ‘facts vs feelings’ distinction

> this distinction rests on about a hundred different incorrect premises (that positivism is the most intellectually rigorous exercise and that the conclusions it arrives at are describing a prediscursive reality and that little or no subjectivity is ever imposed on scientific conclusions; that the study of literature, art, history, philosophy, theology, music, etc., can be collapsed into a ‘vibes-based’ approach and don’t themselves rely on methodologies, specific epistemological branches, specialised terminology, &c. &c.; that the study of literature, art, history, philosophy, theology, music, etc. and also the study of mathematics, biology, physics, astronomy, chemistry, computer science, psychology, etc. can be grouped into two distinct categories with no overlap and that have nothing to say to one another; that we should be giving discursive weight to the idea that ‘intellectualism’ is a measurable property and a laudable one, and that this is not the discourse of eugenics; this list goes on for a while)

> somehow, rather than challenging these hundred different incorrect premises in any serious way, there exists a significant chunk of humanities students (most often students of literature) who reify the idea that their subject is essentially based on ‘vibes’ and intuition, such that really anyone should be able to do them; they defend the intellectual merit of their subject through the suggestion that ‘STEM people’ who lack their fluency in literary studies are in fact not as ‘intelligent’ as they imagine themselves to be

> this is largely reacting to a cultural phenomenon of ‘STEM people,’ empowered by the widespread perception of their subject as being more intellectually challenging and socially worthwhile than humanities, deriding the study of humanities subjects either as being ‘easy’ or as not being worth the effort in the first place; or both

> nevertheless, it sucks

> suggesting that ‘STEM people’ (or, more broadly, ‘everyone’!) ought to have a fluency in literature (and that their not having this is somehow of concern in a vague sense; implicitly a moral failing) ignores several key facts, including: that a study of literature is as predicated on access to particular time and resources as is a study of, say, biology; that lit studies are as capable of political conservatism as any other discipline and that political conservatism can easily come from practices of ‘critical thinking’ which apply literary methodologies to reach reactionary conclusions; that, just as a study of biology requires the acquisition of knowledge beyond the quotidian and/or intuitive, so too does a study of literature

> it is good to develop critical reading skills and to be able to read broadly and confidently, as these are useful tools for navigating and politically articulating the world around you; it’s bad and also just weird and boring to ignore the contingencies that the development of those skills rest upon in favour of trying to one-up your perceived academic rivals; it’s also weird and boring to be extremely put out that someone is more interested in astrophysics or microbiology than they are in the history of the novel

> all education in all forms is stratified by access contingencies; if you see the critical faculties that you imagine only a humanities education to be able to give you as morally necessary skills, why aren’t you focused on challenging those contingencies?

> none of this would be a problem if we removed the access barriers to all branches of education that capitalist intellectual production demands we keep in place; all of this is essentially a slapfight between a lot of people who have been fortunate enough to gain access to higher education and have internalised the social impetus to disregard + disdain those who didn’t

> all of you are so fucking annoying

[chaifootsteps]

once again begging HB fandom to please, please rewatch season 1, especially murder family & loo loo land

I saw a post claiming that Stolas made the full moon deal for Blitz's benefit, because asking for compensation with the only thing Blitz has shown interest in (sex) was apparently nicer on Stolas' part than just like... asking Blitz to rent the book from him with money or something

and I'm just like what??? this kind of take can only come from a headcanon because there's nothing in the show to support it apart from Stolas' own self-delusion (which doesn't excuse him given all the evidence to the contrary he should have noticed).

After their one night stand Blitz never shows an interest in having sex with Stolas. At the point they were at in murder family Stolas had no reason to assume Blitz still wanted sex from him, there isn't much more Blitz could have done to make it clear he wasn't interested!

Blitz ghosts him after their one night stand (by Stolas' admission on the phone call in full moon, it's 'never a good time', suggesting Blitz dodges Stolas' calls constantly and Stolas never gets a hint), tries multiple times to get him off the phone/get to the point in murder family & spends basically all his lines with Stolas in Loo Loo Land shutting it down whenever Stolas tries to flirt/make a move on him (one of which results in Stolas interrupting him mid-protest to condescend to him by saying he's 'cute when he's serious', ignoring totally the thing Blitz just told him not to do)

even later in the series when Blitz is supposedly developing feelings for Stolas and (according to stol/tz logic, not mine) enjoying being forced to sleep with Stolas he still sends him text replies of one or two word answers. it doesn't help that this interest Blitz supposedly shows is never onscreen. Even the two scenes that are the best 'evidence' of why Stolas would get mixed signals are still a reach - Blitz doesn't exactly seem super enthusiastic about sleeping with Stolas in The Circus and he's disinterested and annoyed by Stolas the whole time during their "date" (Stolas' phrase, not Blitz's) in Ozzies. when it comes to being expected to sleep with Stolas at the end of the latter episode he turns it down flat and Stolas' texts show he still doesn't get what the problem is.

Stolas' level of self delusion is his own problem. Not Blitz's. If he couldn't notice that Blitz isn't smiling in a single photo on his own then there's no reason to make Blitz responsible for not screaming in Stolas' ear to get through to him because it clearly wouldn't have worked. Stolas did not want to hear it. Going by what I suspect their convo in full moon will be like, he still doesn't and probably won't take in any criticisms Blitz is allowed to make (and goodness knows the show loves to make characters criticize Stolas in the flimsiest way possible so he can easily talk around them or rebut them)

Also saw the take repeated yet again (as many others have) that Blitz "never once explicitly tells Stolas no".

Besides the fact it's blatantly wrong & just a rewrite of what actually happened in the show - he says no in Ozzie's, he repeatedly tells Stolas to knock it off and voices his discomfort several times in Loo Loo Land - it's frankly disturbing to see this repeated so often.

Like part of the entire problem is that Stolas has put Blitz in a situation where he cannot say no. That is why this is sexual extortion: Blitz needs the book to keep his business running so Stolas has forced him into treating him with kid gloves to avoid making him angry and bankrupting his company (and putting his employees and daughter out onto the street if he can't pay them) as a result.

Even if Blitz was far less vocal about telling Stolas off when he annoys him, that wouldn't make the full moon deal or Stolas' rationalization of it OK. The fact that he does say no multiple times and indicates how he doesn't want Stolas coming onto him outside of their deal (again, the panic button for Stolas in his office & the way he has to go out of his way to clarify to Stolas that he had better not try and come onto him in the theme park - only to be interrupted and demeaned - suggests Stolas' understanding of boundaries is poor and that Blitz does not nor should not feel safe around him) should indicate well enough that Blitz is not interest in sex with Stolas and would have cut him out of his life in early s1 if he'd had the choice. But he didn't and it's disturbing to see the fandom apply revisionist history to suggest that isn't the case.

And what's worse is it's obvious Vivzie agrees with them, or wants to make it seem like she does because she can't be bothered to write actual character development for Stolas to make him a love interest that wouldn't be a total horror show for Blitz to be with. Instead Stolas achieving the bare minimum of saying Blitz's name right (and being nice to him on the phone offscreen) is enough, apparently

I remember you or someone else made a compilation of Blitz saying no or pushing back on Stolas as a video. It feels like we're at a 'don't make me tap the sign' type of point where that series of clips should just be the reply to anyone still pushing this claim.

That was indeed me, and here it is. Also, thank you for this ask, because every word is 100% correct.

[anshelsgendercrisis]

I appreciate learning from your blogs (both transmasc stuff and Jewish stuff), so if it's not overstepping, I am interested in your thoughts on something. Knowing that the terms Zionism and Zionist are being misused so frequently, I did some introductory reading from a few sources, one of which was the ADL. I've found their Hate Symbols Database helpful in the past, and I was looking into their anti-bias training resources since the school I work for has been failing (spectacularly) at such training. Reading their page on Zionism answered some basic questions, and their Myths and Facts about the ADL page also mentioned that "anti-Zionism equates to antisemitism".

Knowing that you (if I am remembering the specifics correctly, sorry if I'm misremembering) are an anarchist and against the existence of all states (including a Jewish one, thus you have explained you are neither Zionist nor anti-Zionist), I was wondering what your general thoughts are of the ADL's perspective on Zionism, and on the ADL as an organization. I hope this question doesn't come off negatively; I know I'm lacking a lot of knowledge, so I'm very grateful to be corrected on anything I said that's wrong/hurtful/ignorant/naive.

Once I get my recent medical stuff figured out, I look forward to signing up to your Patreon and giving more consistently than here-and-there Kofi donations :)

a little background on the adl: it was founded after the conviction and lynching of leo frank. its original purpose was to pressure media and businesses who engaged in antisemitic discrimination or defamation (hence the name). some of the things they engaged in early on were boycotts, demanding prior review of theater productions to screen for antisemitic content, and pressuring advertisers who relied on antisemitic stereotypes. this was in the time leading up to the holocaust, when violence and discrimination against jews was surging all over the world, so it makes a lot of sense why an organization like this was founded.

in terms of the modern organization, i have mixed feelings. i think their hate symbols database can be helpful, and i think some of the data collection is good as well, but there are a lot of stances they have and statements they've made that i really do not agree with, and some of which i think are harmful. that, for me, is why i don't generally use the adl as a primary or sole source for any news or info. i always double check multiple sources and try to use pages like myjewishlearning for educational things.

the adl is also very explicitly pro israel, as in supportive of the current state and government of israel, which is something i'm very much not. as you mentioned, i am an anarchist so i oppose the concept of states in general, including israel, and i'm also highly critical of the current israeli government.

their page on zionism is...accurate from their point of view, and from a lot of progressive zionists' points of view. but i think it paints a rosy picture of zionism that avoids any of the problematics or history of political zionism, which is just not helpful at this point. they're correct that for most people, zionism means advocating for jewish statehood in eretz yisrael, and that there has absolutely been a sort of "yearning for zion" in the diaspora for hundreds of years. and they are correct that there are many zionists who do not support the current israeli government or who advocate for a two state solution.

i also staunchly disagree that antizionism is in and of itself antisemitism. i think it is an ideology and movement that does very easily and too often fall into antisemitism, just because of the nature of how intertwined the conversation is with jewish identity and the jewish people, and we have seen many examples of this over the past month. however, because of the nebulous nature of the definition of zionism, the definition of antizionism is also going to be nebulous. if someone says "i'm a zionist", unless they elaborate i'm not going to know if i'm talking to someone who thinks that jewish people should be able to live peacefully in eretz yisrael alongside other indigenous people or to someone who wants a sovereign jewish state where jews are the ones in power. if someone says "i'm an antizionist", unless they elaborate i'm not going to know if i'm talking to someone who opposes the current state and government of israel and the occupation or someone who thinks (((zionists))) control the media and the banks and that jewish people as a collective are killing palestinian babies for fun. so for me, the terms "zionism" and "antizionism" are kind of useless unless the person i'm talking to further explains their stance, which means trying to label either zionism or antizionism as entirely inherently Bad is counterintuitive to any goal.

so to wrap this up, for me, an unwillingness to tackle the problematics is why i tend to clash with a lot of zionists and zionist institutions and organizations, and it's why i don't generally trust the adl on anything related to israel without other sources to verify.

[s-b-party]

Nous & Mythus: A Cycle of the Known & Unknown

****Honkai star rail version 1.6/crown of mundane and divine spoilers ahead****

After getting another update to the Simulated Universe & w/ Dr. Ratio coming soon, it’s a good time for me to discuss about these 2 Aeons & give my thoughts/analysis on them!

So who are these two?

They are Nous the Erudition & Mythus the Enigmata

We’ll start off w/ Nous so what does erudition mean? A synonym we can use is knowledge although that might be a bit oversimplified

Erudition often has the meaning of extensive learning whether it’s from books, practice, lectures, etc. The implication is that an erudite person or thing has a LOT of knowledge; think of a person who’s well-rounded but also has extensive knowledge in the many fields/subjects they have learned about, they can be considered erudite (this is reflected in how Erudition Pathstriders function in terms of gameplay, normally their specialty is dealing AoE dmg to multiple enemies at once as opposed to just a singular target)

Nous takes the form of an astral computer, they are a machine w/ many dangling wires visible & a red “eye” in the center, very much mechanic all around; as for their symbol it seems to speak to their concept quite well

If we look at the background, the cylindrical shapes can be interpreted as scrolls which are often associated w/ learning & knowledge; in the center, the abstract shapes seem to make an eye (their gaze perhaps) but I think it could also be taken as a flash of light which could represent “enlightenment” which we often think of as a sort of critical point in one’s journey in obtaining knowledge

Is it possible that the center is meant to symbolize the moment when Nous reaches their own enlightenment?

To name a few of their more well-known factions, we have the Genius Society & Intelligentsia Guild, both of which have members whom we’ve already officially met in the game: Herta, Screwllum, Ruan Mei from Genius Society and Dr. Ratio from Intelligentsia Guild

Seeing as they’re 2 different factions following the same Aeon, that means there’s something differentiating them, presumably their approach to knowledge

You can tell based on the name of the Genius Society what exactly they focus on (geniuses) which is a bit of a contrast to what the Intelligentsia Guild focuses on which is the dissemination of knowledge meaning that they believe everybody should have access to knowledge

The Genius Society doesn’t seem to share their knowledge that easily which we can see based on how some of the members tend to work alone, one even became known for killing some of the other members despite being in the same organization (#4 Polka Kakamond), Ruan Mei often sticks to herself when it comes to her research, etc; as a result it’s a contrast to how easily knowledge flows within the Intelligentsia Guild which even goes as far as to view it as currency in their motto

Although we’ve pretty much met only one character associated w/ the Intelligentsia Guild officially & despite how much of an asshole he may be, there are aspects related to Dr. Ratio that are in agreement w/ the belief of the Intelligentsia Guild

The name of his banner is Panta Rhei/Panta Rei which is usually associated w/ Heraclitus & it often translated to “Everything Flows”; Heraclitus was a philosopher whose focus was on the movement & changes that the universe goes through which sounds similar to how the faction wants to make knowledge easily accessible (therefore making knowledge flow through the universe)

Ngl the convo between him & Screwllum at the end of the continuance quest had me lost for a bit but I got the gist of it; to sum it up Ratio ended up rescuing the researchers who got teleported by Duke Inferno, Screwllum was wondering why Ratio would just stand back & observe when he could have prevented the situation from being dragged out any further since Ratio had the Phase Flame; Ratio explains that the best thing when dealing w/ ignorant people (in this case, the researchers in the space station including the people in the chat who were gossiping about the situation) is to stand aside & observe bc according to him foolishness is the most difficult thing to cure; Screwllum deduces that Ratio was attempting to make the employees realize that they shouldn’t be idolizing geniuses so much; Dr. Ratio is in a way similar to Alhaitham; they both think that geniuses shouldn’t be made into such a big deal or overly revered; in both cases the reverence of geniuses creates a gap between people based on intelligence

Another aspect which I find both funny and fitting is that Dr. Ratio as a 5 star will be available to EVERY player; as it is implied in the livestream, it’s his way of spreading knowledge to the mediocre; as much as he can be very arrogant & rude, it’s interesting to see that he still upholds the belief that knowledge should be available to everybody, not just to geniuses, in his own unique way

4. The last aspect of Dr. Ratio that I want to touch upon is the combination of his title & name: his full name is Veritas Ratio, veritas meaning “truth/truthfulness” & ratio meaning “reason” in Latin; the title doctor comes from the Latin verb docere which means “to teach/instruct”

This may be a stretch but hear me out: when put together, the name (not necessarily the person) Dr. Veritas Ratio gives off an impression of someone who is either qualified to teach others about “truthful reasoning” or a teacher who is truthful & rational (it might not sound like it but this kinda falls in line w/ Screwllum describing him as candid). Something I noticed is that based on what we’ve seen, not many people in the Genius Society go by the title of Doctor; what I’m trying to get at is that there is something to be said about Ratio having the title of someone who is qualified to teach while members of the Genius Society usually do not really seem that interested in spreading knowledge to the masses or teaching them

This isn’t to say that the Genius Society is entirely incapable of teaching, they probably could if they wanted to (keyword: wanted), it’s more so their motivations & values that differentiate them from the Intelligentsia Guild

Getting back to Nous, both factions do reflect specific sides of the Aeon: both are interested in expanding their knowledge but the Genius Society overall seems to be removed from civilization/society or at least a bit distant (matched by the quote describing the knowledge seeker as having a cold core) while the Intelligentsia Guild has a more cooperative aspect in terms of having a network of intelligence which can be seen in the meaning behind Nous’ signal which is explained in the entry of the Genius Society (although the signal is more so reserved for geniuses, it’s still an attempt at having a group of people work together to find the answers to the universe)

Now that we’ve looked a bit at Nous in detail, I’ll talk about Mythus; as the Aeon of Enigmata, they represent the concept of mysteries that can’t be easily perceived & their form is quite interesting to look at

Their name is related to the word “mythos” which usually refers to the stories & arts that help demonstrate values, beliefs, & attitudes of societies

*I found out recently that apparently the word myth is more of a pejorative term for mythos bc it’s more often than not used to describe stories as false or not true so there is controversy around that*

Overall they look like a jellyfish w/ the main body being faceless & legless while their tentacles/tendrils dangle out; some parts of their body have a unique effect on them that resembles oil spills or the surface of a bubble which is probably meant to be the fog that accompanies them; the staircases that come from their body seem to never end & even fade out into the darkness of space

Their symbol is very similar to their form; you can see the jellyfish w/ tentacles flowing down & in the background there is a ring of rectangles that overlap each other which may be referring to the stairs that appear in their art

The usage of the jellyfish is interesting; just like how the ocean can carry them along, the jellyfish can symbolize flow & movement, perhaps it’s to establish how mysteries simply exist in the universe without push or pull from outside forces

I can see them using the jellyfish due to its connection to one of the biggest mysteries of the world: the ocean (or at least the deeper parts of it); if we think about it, space is like an ocean of stars and unknown things so I think it’s kind of fitting using a jellyfish form to represent mysteries but it might be a stretch

Now a few known factions that follow Mythus are the Riddlers & History Fictionologists: both are pretty straightforward in terms of their agenda which is to enshroud the universe in mysteries

The Riddlers create mysteries by altering texts & words while the History Fictionologists create mysteries by eradicating evidence of past events aka history itself

It is interesting seeing how these factions actively create mysteries sometimes to the point of destruction (of texts, history, etc) even though the existence of Enigmata should be able to exist as long as Mythus exists bc Aeons themselves are manifestations of concepts; in some cases, Aeons can die while the concepts they identify as may still persist to the current time

So how do Nous & Mythus even relate to each other in the overall world building ? Their identifying concepts might appear as opposites of each other (known vs unknown) but I think there’s more to it than that

There is a readable item written by Fu Xuan called “Glimpses into the Beyond” where she explains that Nous doesn’t necessarily provide answers but they provide many questions & that “answers may only be found by oneself”

We also hear of Nous doing calculations & trying to solve the mysteries of the universe & since the Enigmata exists, Nous doesn’t have all of the answers due to the existence of mysteries

I think that while they do know a lot about the universe & can represent knowledge, they can also represent the learning process/the journey for knowledge

Something interesting is that Nous in Greek philosophy refers to the ability to process & perceive information so if Mythus is meant to be the representation of the things that can’t be easily perceived, does that still apply to Nous themself when they’re both Aeons?

Also where does that leave their dynamic? They’re enemies of sorts bc Mythus is trying to destroy certainty left by Nous but this is also a relationship where Nous is essentially searching for the answers to the universe’s mysteries aka what Mythus encapsulates, making Mythus their “goal” I guess you could say

Life will always have people who desire to gain knowledge & it will always have things that have not been discovered/figured out; there is one particular thing that I do wonder about amidst all of this: with Mythus wanting an uncertain future, I wonder how this will spell out for one of the most important concepts in many HYV games: fate

I guess we’ll have to wait & see if they’ll connect this to fate in the future 👀

*I hope you guys enjoy the first lore thread of the new year! :3

[vasito-de-leche]

Could we have some Zima relationship headcanons :]

;R1999 ZIMA - Relationship Headcanons

Compilation of headcanons about Zima in a romantic relationship.

ofc you can nonnie, ty for the request! Zima was the other character that got me into the game so he's very dear to me

also also, I'm not sick anymore so I have some steam to work on requests, hehe <3 still working on the sleepy fics though, don't worry yall!

I haven't done a proper analysis/HCs post on Zima yet, so as usual I'll be talking a little about his character before getting into the whole relationship aspect of things!

The portrayal of Zima as a stereotypical, shy introvert feels extremely reductive to me, especially when it's all attributed to his speech pattern - the pauses, the stuttering... None of it is an indication of timidness. We have to remember that Zima's native language, like many other characters, is not english and he struggles when speaking it. That's the reason he speaks in such a way, there's a language barrier he's constantly fighting against in order to communicate with others and yet he's clearly trying.

There's an emphasis on loneliness, isolation and avoidance in his character that is impossible to ignore, which seems to add to the whole portrayal of Zima as a "shy baby". But again, this is something that comes from an important part of his life - the exile he went through. Him being socially inept is a result of a punishment, years of being alone with no one but animals to keep him company. It doesn't come from a sense of inferiority or insecurity such as Charlie, but an absolute lack of human contact.

When examining his voicelines, we also see that he's opinionated - criticizing the Tsar and the poor living conditions of the people, speaking of the beauty of nature and so on and so forth. He explicitly writes poems on any surface like trees, rocks and snow, even if he knows they'll be washed away overtime.

I understand that it's extremely easy to dismiss Zima when it comes to romance because of all of these details, his isolating ways and all, but he's a poet first and foremost.

While he may not be romantic in the more traditional sense we're used to, he's extremely insightful and takes a lot of care to appreciate the small details that often go overlooked, but that make life feel more lively and rich. In the context of relationships, given his age and his lifestyle, Zima would bring a completely different type of vibe - for comparison, most of the characters I talked about already lean towards high emotions, the fun of discovering love for the first time, etc etc...

Pavia's love is a whole rollercoaster on his own because there's always the chance of either getting hurt or having the time of your life, Forget Me Not's feels exactly like being hungover in the morning. But Zima's love is more like coming home after a long trip, knowing there's a warm meal waiting for you. It's familiar and calm.

On the subject of Zima falling in love.

Zima is used to introspection, so I genuinely believe he has a strong sense of self and a good grasp on his emotions. He quickly realizes when he's fallen for someone and he accepts it easily, despite the lack of romantic interactions in his life. This is because the object of his affections is, most likely, someone he already cherishes, and who puts the effort into maintaining a good friendship with him - so the idea of being in love with them feels natural!

I can't see Zima pursuing romantic relationships with strangers and/or those outside his close circle, not even a surface attraction beyond artistic appreciation for someone's looks. He strikes me as the type who can only fall in love with those he trusts and knows.

And even then, his behaviour wouldn't change much!

It's obvious that he lacks friends, so the very few people he does have are extremely important to him - even so, Zima does not need to constantly orbit around them and will gladly spend days (and weeks if you don't actively seek him out) without seeing them, content to catch up with them whenever their paths cross. He shares what little he has to offer with everyone, practical things and knowledge. Zima is 100% that friend who disappears for months and returns as if nothing happened.

When it comes to you, it's the same. Sure, if you ask him to stay a little longer then he'll oblige you. And if you're the chatty type or find his work interesting, then he'll put the effort into having a conversation with you despite the language barrier. But that's about it, the changes aren't noticeable no matter how much he loves you, because all of that happens when no one is looking.

If you happen to stroll around in the wilderness, getting lost in the forest and all, then you might find your name carved on trees along with many, many poems. If you don't speak or read russian, then all you'll be able to recognize is your name - the very first thing Zima taught you in his native tongue - but these are all declarations of love.

The animals are kinder to you, curious even. They follow and treat you like an old friend, as if they knew you, because everything they've heard from you comes from Zima himself. They speak about everything and anything with him, after all.

Zima lacks the initiative to confess or even consider being in a proper relationship with you - I insist, he's genuinely content with being a close friend - but he also lacks the restraint to keep his feelings to himself and thus puts them on display in the only way he knows how: as a poorly kept secret between himself and the nature that surrounds him.

Not many think of him as a romantic because of how stoic he is, but when Zima is in love, he sees you in every flower, in the snowflakes that fall and kiss his nose. You're the gentle summer breeze and the crystal clear rivers once winter ends. You're right there beside him in spirit when he sees little chicks take flight for the first time, or when all the other forest critters wake up after hibernating. Zima finds beauty in every aspect of nature, and he sees you everywhere he looks.

That said, there's no way he'll take the first step. That's entirely up to you, to pick up all these things and confront him about it - that's the only time he'll be open and direct about his feelings. Because you already know how much you mean to him!

Zima would love to teach you his native language.

This is partially me projecting because english isn't my native language either, but I do like to think that Zima's english is all self-taught. He understands when others speak english, but isn't as fluent when speaking himself. And that's why it's sooo infuriating and frustrating for him, as a creative person and poet.

Not only because it's harder to communicate with others, but because his work and poems - the most important part of himself - can't be fully understood. Therefore HE can't be fully understood. Some translations, while good, can't even come close to their original meaning. As his partner, Zima wants you to understand the full depth of his affections and thoughts.

I do think that the process of learning would also be quite organic, starting with Zima simply pointing out at things and teaching you the way they're named in russian, basic stuff he does unconsciously. If you pick up things on your own from his work and his translations, Zima will be over the moon and would ask you to repeat yourself to make sure your pronunciation is right and because he loves the way his language sounds with your accent.

But if you approach and ask him to properly teach you? He's gone, instantly overwhelmed with emotion and thoughts racing in his head, trying to organize a million different things - what would be the best way to teach you? Should he start with the alphabet? You want to learn this brand new language to understand him better, that simple gesture is a huge deal for him.

Once you have a pretty good grasp on the language, at least enough to have basic conversations with him, it will feel like Zima has gotten a little bolder - addressing you with pet names, being generally more blunt and talkative... But in fact, he's just finally able to express himself in his totality.

This also goes the other way around - Zima would love to learn your own native language, whether it's english or something else. It's yet another language he can use to express himself, so it's a win-win. And I know that it's common for us multilingual people to start confusing and mixing all the languages we speak, but I think Zima would have an easy time keeping them apart, so to speak!

On the subject of Zima and how he acts when he's in a relationship.

You two were close friends before you were lovers, so Zima doesn't feel any sort of pressure to live up to some dating standards like fancy dates, gifts or grandiose displays of affections - once again, it's all about what feels natural. You two know each other more than enough to simply fall into a comfortable routine that works out for both.

He does make the effort to drop by more often, to find a middle ground until he feels more comfortable and used to being around large groups of people. But he would also insist that you accompany for his walks in search of inspiration for his work!

When it comes to showing affection, I think Zima might be a little touchstarved - casual physical contact such as someone hugging or patting him on the back as a greeting still catch him by surprise, but affectionate gestures with those he trusts and loves is a novelty that leaves Zima starry-eyed.

He has a lot of things that he needs to slowly get used to again now that he's not exiled in the middle of the woods, but having you shower him with affection is something that he grows to like rather quickly. When you pet him, pepper his face with kisses, hold his hand when walking or hug him - it doesn't matter, Zima will always stand there, fascinated with the way you make him feel, so very warm and safe.

He would appreciate a warning before being touched, and he always makes sure to ask before initiating anything himself - it doesn't matter how many times you tell him that you're fine with this sort of contact, he's going to ask for permission anyway. Just out of politeness. Personal space is important, after all.

I think Zima would try to stick to a routine he can follow without overwhelming himself, especially if you're the type to need more attention (again, Zima will literally disappear for weeks if left to his own devices). It's more of a short list of things he needs to remember to do before the day is over, the two most important ones being greeting you in the morning and wishing you goodnight.

As for more general aspects of a relationship, I don't think there's much to say! Arguments with him rarely happen because he's patient and careful with his words, he communicates his needs and boundaries as well as he respects yours and all. Zima isn't that talkative, but his more "eccentric" traits are something you're probably used to on account of that initial bond and trust.

[pikachu78109]

General Pokémon Villain HC’s PT. 2

((Part 2 of the Pokémon villain headcanon saga. Characters are in no particular order. Also, content warning for a few entries. Also, forgive me for some spelling and grammatical errors.))

Lusamine🪼

Although her actions are abusive and controlling, it all stems from grief. Of course, it’s not an excuse for how Lusamine treated her children. Lillie and Gladion haven’t done anything to deserve this kind of treatment. As deplorable as her actions are, Lusamine convinced herself that she’s trying to do the right thing in order to bring her husband back. However, it became twisted and vile, morphing into obsession rather than a valiant effort. Lusamine has no idea of what she’s doing as her desperation and obsessive behavior cloud her good character. Whatever respectability she has accrued over the years goes out the window as she tries (and fails) to succeed in her personal mission.

Truthfully, Lusamine resents Ultra Beasts (UB for short). They took her husband away and are the sole reason why her obsession took root. Her children ran away because of UB’s and she got possessed by Nihilego, the toxins of which are still somewhat present in her system that couln’t be removed.

Speaking of Nihilego’s toxins, the doctors in Kanto (and some from Alola) were able to remove most of the poison from Lusamine’s body. However, a few areas have latched onto her system strongly, making removal impossible and could cause complications. Such areas include her head and arms, inhibiting mobility and memory. There are moments where the poison does affect her vision, so Lusamine cannot see quite as well whenever it occurs. Fainting spells happen often that doctors recommended Lusamine to be confined in a wheelchair for a few months until they can figure out how to completely remove the poison entirely.

Currently attending therapy. Aside from the possession she endured by the hand of Nihilego, Lusamine attends therapy to work out her own mental and emotional health. Going to therapy was actually Lillie’s suggestion.

Deep down, like really deep down, Lusamine loves her children. She does. However, trying to rebuild that love and connection that she destroyed by her own hand will take a long time. While Lillie is open to the possibility of reconciliation, Gladion is more hesitant.

Doesn’t really operate too much at the Aether Foundation. Most of the responsibility has fallen onto Wicke and Lusamine sort of just shadows here and there. She’s embarrassed about showing herself to her peers and usually does foundation work online inside her home. Her work gets looked after by Wicke, as an added precaution.

Whenever Lillie comes home from Kanto, she tries to spend time with Lusamine. While Lillie is open to having a relationship with her mother once again, it’s difficult as bad memories come flooding back. However, Lusamine encourages Lillie to talk about it and allows her to air out the painful feelings that were brought about during that time. Lusamine doesn’t say a word and just lets her daughter vent, because to her, she needs to be reminded of what she has done. When Lillie finishes, Lusamine reminds Lillie that she has every right to be angry and every right to not forgive her. Lusamine wants to be a good mother to her kids, but understands that it may not be possible given what she has done. All she can do is listen and validate their feelings and promise to be better.

Ghetsis👑

An unstable individual without a doubt. Can barely distinguish reality from his own warped twisted view.

Everyone’s just a pawn to him and it doesn’t matter who. The Seven Sages, his useless Grunts, and, of course, N are all parts in his little toolbox. He could easily convince others to do something or, God forbid, trust his word with a simple heart to heart. He’s a master at words and knows what strings to pluck.

Such a drama queen, emphasis on drama. Ghetsis literally cannot stand being criticized nor ignored. He surrounds himself with yes men, ie. The Seven Sages, and their unwavering approval towards him gives him the push to keep doing what he’s doing. Just like how a cult leader operates.

Ghetsis doesn’t get Pokémon. He understands they are fantastical beings, but he never understood them with a humane approach. He acquired his team from the Seven Sages, each one gifting Ghetsis their partner Pokémon to dedicate their loyalty to him. These Pokémon had no idea of the world of hurt and mistreatment that Ghetsis would soon bestow upon them. Ghetsis’ “training” wasn’t anything like Pokémon battling or sparing. He would force his team to undergo harsh experiments to push beyond their limitations to the point of life threatening. Hydreigon got the worst of it and actually retaliated against Ghetsis by viciously attacking him, causing near fatal injuries.

I want to theorize that Ghetsis’ lineage, the Harmonia name, may be linked to the Abyssal Ruins somehow. It’s a long stretch, but for some reason, I see Ghetsis having some strange connection to the sunken temple with its abundance of wealth and knowledge. The ruins might have been a palace or something akin to the Library of Alexandria, where Unovian rulers amassed a swath of power and influence and knowledge over the region. I feel like Ghetsis’ family tree may have something to do with it considering how the site seems to be full of unsolved mystery. And knowing how other NPCs talk about it and the items that the player can find, it just feels like something that can be traced back to Ghetsis as he’s someone who believes has a divine right.

Ghetsis feels phantom pain on his right eye all the time. It got taken out by Hydreigon and he can’t see quite as well. However, he’ll feel a throbbing sensation. However, he doesn’t feel any pain or discomfort on his right side at all. It’s just his right eye.

Has a dark sense of humor. A morbid sense of humor.

If there’s ANY sense of normalcy with this man, he’s an avid reader. He likes to engage with mythology and science, primarily related to technology and energy, as well as history books about Unova’s past. Anytime where he’s not plotting world domination, he’s got his nose in a book.

Despite being an adoptive father, Ghetsis has never formed a genuine connection with his children. Concordia and Anthea barely spent time with him, but whenever he would, he’d be soft and gentle. Of course, it didn’t stop him from brainwashing them into his cult and putting the responsibility of N’s well-being over their own, especially at a young age. He would always emphasize N’s importance as crucial and simultaneously make the girls believe that their existence is to serve N. As for N himself, well, we all know the story by now.

Lysandre🔥

Gonna be real honest here: this dude gave me a lot to think about, headcanon wise. It’s not so much the fact that he’s kind of intimidating to write about, but more on the fact that he’s kind of mid whenever the topic lands on him specifically. Lysandre happens to be both complicated yet interesting, so it gave me something to munch on.

Lysandre oozes with confidence. He takes pride in his work and public image. He can handle stress pretty well and knows exactly how to deal with issues that crop up in his daily life, which I can only hope to aspire to be one day.

His relationship with Sycamore is near and dear to him. Lysandre shares mutual respect with Sycamore and keeps in touch to get any recent news or highlights on the professor’s research. These two go way back and their interactions are pleasant and low key. However, as they gotten busier, their meet-ups dwindled. Still, Sycamore remains as Lysandre’s closest friend and someone whom Lysandre can turn towards whenever he’s upset about something.

Connecting with the prior point, knowing Lysandre’s villainous goals and the overall destructive effect it would entail, he decided on a selective few who he wanted to spare. Sycamore happened to be person number one.

People perceive Lysandre differently and it all depends on who you talk to. Some say that he’s quite generous as a philanthropist while others say he’s elusive and hard to read. Others make assumptions based on superficial observations such as his wealth and popularity. Honestly, it’s never consistent.

Despite what others think, Lysandre falls into the introvert category. He doesn’t like to be in public for long periods of time, but bears through it because of his job.

Coffee lover. I mean, he has his own café so it’s pretty much canon?

I’ll just say it here: Malva is a simp for this man. She has special connections with Lysandre and as a result she’s able to get the full scoop on his secretive activity behind the public’s eye. Lysandre absolutely knows that Malva’s got a thing for him (I mean, she’s got good taste) and he definitely does use that to his advantage. He can convince her to manipulate the media, as well as divert any attention away from him while he conducts his Team Flare work. Malva doesn’t question his authority and she’s pretty much a ride or die. Nobody expected Kalos’s top reporter to be part of this nefarious group, which I suppose could be Lysandre’s doing as a way of showing thanks by protecting her reputation.

Him wanting to wipe the world clean from all of its impurities brewed inside of him for a long time. Initially, he really wanted to make people’s lives better with his humanitarian efforts but became tired and frustrated each time people complained that he wasn’t doing enough. Like, this man tried endlessly to provide a solution. The results continued to yield nothing and it sprouted the seeds of resentment and hate within Lysandre to pursue the nuclear option. To an extent, I see where Lysandre comes from. It sucks when people keeps pressuring you to do more, to give more of yourself to people, yet get little in return. However, it doesn’t negate the fact that Lysandre was willing to commit mass murder on people because they kept bitching at him for minor reasons. You can’t fault the man for being pissed, but still: Genocide ain’t it.

[wing-ed-thing]

Tsunade Apprentice Relationship Headcanons

No Reader Pronouns, Mentions of Tsunade’s Vices

𓆃 Tsunade is a tough mentor who will most definitely push you past your limits. Out of all three Sanin, she is easily the harshest, toughest, and strictest.

𓆃 If you’re receptive to a tough, female menor, Tsunade is for you. She not only values you getting the best education she can offer, but ensuring that you remember why you chose to study under her

𓆃 Tsunade will demonstrate her knowledge and prowess time and again to set the standard for your work

𓆃 Being a woman and a shinobi who was undermined herself, she has a soft spot for students who are underdogs. Any doubts about you or your skill from others are ignored as long as she can see your potential

𓆃 Tsunade oftentimes finds herself employing/mentoring a fair amount of marginalized people whom she’s given opportunities to, especially people who do not fit the “traditional” idea of shinobi work

𓆃 Tsunade, in particular, is for the girls and is likely to take on fems who are looking to prove themselves in the field. The students Tsunade would take on isn’t limited to fems, but she does see herself in you if you do happen to be an overlooked fem talent in the male-dominated field

𓆃 She’s also not a mentor for the weak-willed. Tsunade will yell at you and oftentimes she will make comments that undermine your feelings. 

𓆃 Tsunade is ruthless in training. Due to the nature of medical work in the shinobi world and how important Tsunade finds it, she will drill you for days on end to ensure your growth and knowledge

𓆃 She is also a harsh grader. While you may not get grades in a traditional school sense, she does often test your knowledge and emergency response. 

𓆃 Everything must be perfect. Tsunade will let you know if the most minute detail is off. 

𓆃 Even when you have your successes, Tsunade isn’t the type to jump up and down for you. She’ll offer you a kind smile (if that) and a nod and a simple acknowledgement of your good work.

𓆃 And you know what? It actually feels great. 

𓆃 She’ll ask if you feel proud. She’ll lay out all of your accomplishments, have you look at the aftermath of her latest test and ask you how you feel.

𓆃 She wants you to take pride in your own work, not constantly look to her for approval

𓆃 For as harsh as Tsunade can be about you slacking, a good portion of your time spent with her is with her vices. Whether it be gambling or alcohol, it’s unfortunately something that comes with her.

𓆃 Running away from gambling debts or helping her home when she’s wasted is just something that’s a part of being her apprentice.

𓆃 Not to mention the clerical work that gets pushed on you when she doesn’t want to do it. 

𓆃 Easily the most demanding of the Three Sanin. Very critical. Detail oriented and will make you cry. But, damn, does she care about you. And Tsunade would be damned if her student didn’t become one of the very best.

Thank you to all who liked, reblogged, followed, and supported. Your support means so much and is greatly appreciated.

Happy Birthday, Tsunade!

[psychicreadsgirl]

BTS JHope's Struggles in Life

As this week is about readings for BTS/TXT members, I'm just doing random readings that come to my mind about them. People are free to make requests but if you're anon, you have to follow certain rules on the pinned post. If you don't then I will just ignore your question.

JHope (Jung Hoseok) struggles a lot with money and luxuries. He has a lot of trouble managing his finances. He often spends far more than he makes and he doesn't budget. He can be kind of cheap to others but when he's in the mood, he can be the one saying he'll pay for all the drinks/meals etc. Money seems to escape his pockets in a blink of an eye.

Hoseok also struggles a lot with his mental health. It's very hard for him to take negative comments and even constructive criticism. He can feel easily defeated at times. He also feels compelled to show only his "happy" side to the public, so he struggles quite a bit with his identity and his emotions. He's used to just "smiling" to cover up his emotions. There can be a lot of frustration and pent up rage/unhappiness within him that it can all erupt at some time. Once it erupts, it can be very difficult for him to control what he says/does. To cope with these sort of struggles, he can often rely on other things or people that aren't necessarily good for him.

He also struggles with friendships. A lot of his friendships turn out to be betrayals. They are mostly shallow and often he feels that he is the one giving more to the friendship. A lot of his "friends" are only trying to leech off of him and he only realizes this after being hurt by them.

Oddly he can treat those that mean well to him harshly and can also take advantage of them. The problem with Hoseok is that he likes a lot of praise and he can't really take someone who doesn't agree with his approach/mentality, so when his "true" friends give him genuine advice that perhaps may be harsh/negative in Hoseok's mind, Hoseok will then push those friends away and think they are just jealous of him. Those genuine friends then end up leaving him be because they feel like they've tried or they feel like he doesn't appreciate them.

[comradekarin]

I saw your Beyonce/Taylor Swift post and What's wrong with "comparing two queens that are killing it". line? Isn't that what it comes down to with female artists? Why can't we just appreciate all female artists instead of the competitions?

I’m going to take this as you asking this question in good faith so here’s the short answer: No. There is nothing inherently wrong with that statement, and depending on the context, I agree with it. But here’s the long answer:

A lot of fandoms do take it upon themselves to start unnecessary, unprovoked beef between artists, especially female artists of color (i.e the Cardi and Nicki drama), consequently ruining the love a lot of people have for those artists. However, the Taylor and Beyoncè comparisons have a few problems I want to address that aren���t actually new when talking about female artists of color and their white counterparts. Firstly, the whole comparisons only started because of the uptick of insufferable swifties online discrediting all of the work, effort, and impact Beyoncé has had on people before and today (and Beyoncé fans are simply responding to these ridiculous claims). Secondly, swifties also have a strange tendency to compare her exclusively to objectively better black artists (Beyoncé, Prince, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and more) by diminishing their work and influence in order to prop her up. Noticeable so, they never really do this with Taylor’s fellow white peers. It begs the question: Why do so many swifties feel the need to put Taylor on a pedestal by discrediting arguably more popular, influential black and queer artists? While I do agree with the notion that female artists should be celebrated and giving the props they deserve, we can no longer pretend that black artists like Beyoncé don’t have to give twice the effort, twice the dedication, twice the energy, and twice the style in order to be given their credit. Meanwhile, an artist like Taylor is rewarded and worshiped for her white mediocrity and performance activism, never really pressured to perform to the degree other black artists are expected to, or forced to show allyship when it really matters. So for her fans to degrade Beyoncé’s high quality vocals, performance, and production—which has been consistent and improving over the years—and be rightfully told off just to resort to the corny “let’s just celebrate all women” is, in my eyes, the epitome of white feminism.

Taylor’s fans have even admitted that she isn’t the best singer, only marketing herself as a good “songwriter”. Ok, so an artist that can’t sing that well, can’t dance, has easily replicable lyrics we could get from other Indie artists, and has a very specific demographic as her fans is someone to be considered a legend? How is this considered the standard but influential black legends’ work are downplayed and diminished? Why does it hurt swifties to see black women be given their credit? Why does Taylor have to be included in every conversation (I.e the Lizzo situation at the Grammy’s where Taylor Swift fans took Lizzo’s appreciation for Beyoncé as hatred for Taylor or Beyoncé’s success on the renaissance tour being overshadowed by the eras tour). And when called out on this, why do her stans resort back to the fake “just support all women” take?

It’s why I can’t really stand by that one post up here that states we shouldn’t debate over female artists because at the end of the day, “they’re all female artists subjected to the harsh lens of the patriarchy.” That statement ignores the intersectionality present in the topic of female artists’ treatment in the industry. It ignores how the expectations of white female artists more than often than not tend to be different for woc artists. I see the “let’s just all get along” saying as a way to deflect from the valid criticism and complaints people of color have for white artists like Taylor Swift. And considering how Taylor’s online brand is playing victim and being the poor innocent white girl whenever she is called out on something, the behavior her stans exhibit are nothing out of the ordinary.

In summary, I don’t think comparisons between female artists are needed. Especially female artists in entirely different genres of music and style. But I do know a lot white Taylor Swift fans love to play the racism card and then hide behind misogyny to cover their tracks. Once again, something Taylor herself does WELL.

[dlatl98]

Elrond, who went to Valinor, became a local celebrity as soon as he arrived there.

Elrond's loved ones were merciless to him. His parents left them for the greater good. He knew he had to give in, because it was ultimately for them and for the world. But in the end, the saddest thing was the fact that I couldn't get to know them, to the point where their loss was nothing more than emptiness rather than grief. His brother had left him for the human path. Do as you wish. You die, not me. Well, this brother had never been helpful to him in life. Maybe growing old as a man would have helped the fool grow (and it didn't). Maglor and Maedhros would not allow him to be called father (so they called him by his name). They chose their sense of Lack of qualifications that they could not be his father because they had taken away his parents, rather than Elrond's desire to call them "father," a title that would warm his heart and mouth just by calling them father. There is also advice that being a Feanorian will not help you in life. He really appreciated that. For destroying his fence and kicking him out of it again under the pretext of doing it for him. If you break one, you have to give me another! He couldn't decide whether he hated Maedhros more for killing himself, which was like a grand announcement that he was no comfort to him, or whether he hated Maglor more for not coming to him or coming to his aid while he was alive. His damned cousins, his king and the Lord of Eregion, died at will. Of course, Elrond understood that they had no other choice as monarchs. His wife… was sorry first. And he was sorry that he couldn't leave with her. He had rejected the king, but he was like his cousins ​​after all. Still, there was a merit to giving up the king. A queen can't leave easily. It was good that he didn't become king, but he often wondered about the path not taken. And his daughter…

No words are possible. No parent should have to go through this.

"I'm sorry. We didn't endure it. We were young at that time, and the children we thought were dead were young. It's not possible to compare, but I can't compare it to you, who I lost after raising everyone and becoming more attached to them. Losing the child I raised. There's nothing sadder than that. I'm truly sorry, but I'll never be able to comfort you. but.....we will be here."

"I'm sorry. I really couldn't go to you. I was too ashamed. I didn't reject you. I didn't think you wouldn't help me. I just couldn't go any further. And I felt betrayed because I thought Maedhros had abandoned me… but at the same time, I understood his choice. I understood how tired he was, how he had no more strength. I knew he couldn't continue, not because he chose something else over me… so I can't compare him to you. Of course, I'm not criticizing his choice. But I still feel resentful towards you. I'm sorry. I won't be of any help. But… I'll be here, so come see me whenever you want."

“Come out now! Even if you can ignore me, don’t ignore him Come out now! Don’t make him feel like you chose someone over him this time either!”

“If there’s anything I can do to help, I’ll definitely help. After all, it was thanks to you that that bastard got out.”

"……I'm sorry. But please understand this. I didn't abandon you. It was just……I really couldn't continue. I'm really sorry. I'll be here. I won't be of any help to you, but still…"

"Hey, let's have a drink!"

"I don't know if it'll help. But…..I made it like Celebrian told me. I showed Galadriel the mirror too. Does it look the same to you? No, don't worry about what I think. If you don't need it, throw it away. It's okay. If you like it…..I have plenty of time. I can make it as much as I want."

"How did you endure this?" "What?" "That your loved ones don't follow you. That you might never see them again. That you won't see them again."

"I didn't endure it. When they came, I was helpless and fell. Instead, I'd like to ask. Does it help that you have many friends that you can meet here?" "……I'm sorry to them, but that's that, and this is this." "Right?"

"Still……"

Elrond took his wife's hand and kissed it. They sat on the threshold again, looking out into the dusk. "I am glad you are here."

[twilight-deviant]

What is your opinion of the Wilson Fisk version of the Spiderverse animated movie?

I like him all right. ¯\_(◡‿◡)_/¯ I like Fisk, so seeing Fisk at all is what I like. Haha.

Disclaimer: It has been a little while since I watched the movie. I should do it again sometime.

I do often have problems with Spider-Man using Fisk. (Yes, I know he's a SM villain first. But hear me out... he's a DD villain, okay?) I find that DD keeps him a lot more grounded (he is just a guy, a regular, non-enhanced guy), and SM wants him to be as big as the series other villains. Spider-Verse is definitely guilty of that, having Fisk at the center of accessing multiple universes and breaking them, but ah well... Most important, they still humanize him. That's what matters most to making a good Fisk. [Unspeakable Evils 🤝 Caring for Loved Ones] Having him do it all to bring back Vanessa and Richard (the most any Fisk has ever cared for Richard? lol), I like it.

More thoughts below...

I think they did a kind of interesting thing having Liev do a more "New York" accent in the voice acting. (Sounds like a Brooklyn accent, I think? Even though Fisk has always been very Manhattan-based. I could very easily be wrong though.) I don't know that I agree with the choice, but I find it interesting. It drives home Fisk's lower-class roots. I only disagree with it because a big part of Fisk's development from childhood is leaving that behind, reading a lot and bettering himself to come off as someone higher-class and more educated. He likes rubbing elbows with "old rich," pretending he's one of them and always has been, and he hates reminders that he isn't. Like... really hates it.

[Daredevil (1964) #290]

(He kills that man. Over the top? Yes. Makes the point? Yes. And yeah, he does speak other languages, but I get what they're saying here about "academic" phrases.)

I know it's obvious I like Vincent's Fisk in the tv series, but I think they do a lot of it right. He frequently uses big words to show he's intelligent (almost intentionally-- to impress), but he doesn't know "basic rich people things." He has to have Wesley suggest wine to drink at dinner, he can't tie a bowtie, etc. It's nice. It's subtle. It gives the impression of "nouveau riche" with higher-class ignorance and overcompensation. I think that is truly the best way to handle Fisk. If he had an accent perceived as lower-class, he would get rid of it posthaste. Nothing against the Spider-Verse decision though. Sometimes, variety is nice too.

ANYWAY! Actual character design of Spider-Verse Fisk? 😅 Well, I think every joke has been made. Haha. Obviously, as established, based on this Fisk:

[Daredevil: Love and War (1986)]

Seeing him in Spider-Verse can be a lot to take in at first with a lot to criticize, but I've come out the other side with much better opinions.

At first, you think seeing such a ridiculous shape of a man dehumanizes him a bit, which is fair and (I still think) a little true. But I've opted instead to not see it as a literal physical manifestation of Fisk so much as a symbolic display that he is "The Big Man." You can look at the wide shot in the comic above and see that even though he is massive, the big open room makes him feel small, vulnerable. It somehow makes him appear more powerless to help Vanessa. (So much strength but he can't fix her, blah blah blah.) But most of the shots in Spider-Verse have him taking up the screen. He's supposed to come off very strong, very scary, and very in charge of the situation.

In his less villainous moments, he takes up less screen.

Him being peak vulnerable? Thinking about Vanessa and Richard's deaths? The widest of wide shots. Him smol.

So I do believe the character design is a good choice overall, but I think for its greatest impact, you have to think of his size as symbolic instead of physical. (Granted, if there's one thing no artist can agree on, it's how big to make Fisk. I could make a whole post just on how severely his size fluctuates across the comics. lol) Also about his design in the movie, I'm into the black silhouette. Voids are cool. 👍

Side note: I like the pen clicking habit when he's stressed. Wilson Fisk is never beating the autism allegations.

I hope that answers your question, Anon. I think I'd have to watch the movie again to give greater commentary on this Fisk. I'm curious what your thoughts on him are. ♥