#this is just how I choose to interpret her

[artist-issues]

This is the point. It does clearly say homosexuality is a sin in the Bible. You’re just applying your own ludicrous definition of what “clear” means to the Bible, in a way you wouldn’t any other missive.

I told you I’m not doing this with you. Because for all your intellectual frills and “saying it doesn’t make it so, it’s possible to misinterpret,” you’re still just saying, bottom line, “did God really say?”

…I mean, your points are correct insofar as the Bible can be interpreted incorrectly, and has been in certain times throughout history, and we have to be aware of the cultural context. Yeah. All that is correct.

…But then in your reblog you go and say things like, “arsenokoitai is a made-up word.” Or things like “in Deuteronomy 22:25 What is the sin here, is it meeting a young woman, is it meeting a young woman pledged to be married, is it meeting a young woman pledged to be married in the countryside, or is it rape?”

As if arsenokoitai isn’t a compound word. Easily seen and translatable in Greek as such. Sure, it’s “made up.” If words like, you know, icecream, bedroom, and pineapple are made up and nobody can tell what they mean. What lexicon are you using?

As if Deuteronomy 22:26-27, the literal very next verse, doesn’t clearly say what the sin is: “And you are not to do anything to the girl; there is no sin in the girl worthy of death, for just as a man rises against his neighbor and murders him, so is this case. When he found her in the field, the betrothed girl cried out, but there was no one to save her.” Especially when taken in the context of the previous verses as well. The sin is rape. Easily seen. It’s not hard to see. Because the Bible is clear and He does make Himself clear, when you read the whole thing and accept it all as His Word, instead of picking and choosing what you like and dislike, and where to get literal and where not to based on your own likes and dislikes.

If I went into why, and explaining it, and interpreting Deuteronomy 22 for you…it would be me, doing this with you. Which I refuse to do, because it’s so obvious it proves why I’m not doing this with someone who could nitpick at something so obvious in order to make the other obvious parts of Scripture, which they don’t like, look similarly nitpick-able by comparison, and then pretend that it’s somehow “being careful” to do so.

Next, tell me God didn’t mean “die” when He said “you shall surely die” eating from the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the Garden. Tell me that wasn’t clear. Tell me what He meant was “you shall be like God, knowing good and evil.” Because otherwise He would’ve “clearly said so.”

See, your actual standards of reasoning are correct, taken by themselves. “We must search for correct interpretation, because it’s possible to incorrectly interpret. We must use context in order to do this. We must be careful.” That’s all absolutely a set of correct interpretive principals.

But then you go and try to give me examples of how to apply those principals and those examples are ridiculous. Just oft-repeated, already-disproven, intellectually dishonest, face-value-nonsensical talking points from the general homosexual-affirming culture who are playing intellectual Twister to try and hold God’s Word and What He Forbids in the same hand.

So I’m not doing this with you. “Arsenokoitai is a made up word.” Give me a break.

You know what I will do? I’ll have this conversation with you privately, if you want to have it. Because then at least I’ll have some indication that you’re looking for truth, not just jumping at the chance to repeat culturally-accepted “interpretation” mantras on any public post that’s non-LGBTQ+-affirming. So if you really want to study the Bible, and you’re most interested in understanding God’s Word, or helping me understand it, let’s do it in the DMs. But if you’d rather debate by nonsensical standards so that you look correct in front of a world that already wants to believe your sin-affirming stance is true, go do it somewhere else.

Not on a post that specifically warns against everything you’re saying.

You thought when people painted the "someday you're going to have to choose, for real, between the World and God, you won't be able to walk the line between both" picture that they were talking about martyrdom.

Some extreme. "Trample this picture of Jesus." "Say you don't believe!" "Convert to a different religion!"

You didn't realize that it wouldn't look like that. You didn't realize that when the line gets drawn in the sand, and Jesus is on one side, the other side would look like crying people wailing out, "why can't you just accept me for who I am? Why aren't I enough for you?"

You didn't realize that the choice would be between Jesus the Truth...or a majority of people in the culture making movies, making t-shirt slogans, changing their names, gently telling you that maybe this word in the Bible doesn't mean what you think it means, maybe love just means love, maybe you can have Jesus and whatever sexuality you want.

"Did God really say...?"

You thought it would be something overt. But the bad guys never said, "hey, choose the dark side over the light." They always said, "hey, maybe you don't even know what Jesus said."

The choice is: "It is the Lord. Let Him do what seems good to Him." OR "Did God really say...?"

That's the choice. This is where the rubber meets the road. This is our "choose this day who you will serve." As for me, I'm serving the Lord, and He's holding on to me. He never changes, and yes He did really say.

Hold fast to the truth. It doesn't change. People and cultures do.

[kiwriteswords]

Jealous Angsty Hotch is my favorite

Envy is the bond between the hopeful and the damned [Aaron Hotchner x Female Reader]

Masterlist || Ao3||Word Count: 3.1k|| AN: I am so sorry this one took me so long!

Tags/Warnings: jealous Hotch, bombshell reader, flirtatious Derek, canon-typical themes, canon-typical injuries, angst, argument, established relationship, secret relationship, BAU reader, undercover operation

Summary: Aaron Hotchner never considered himself a possessive man. He was on board to keep his relationship with you a secret, that was...until Derek Morgan increasingly got under his skin with his flirtatious comments toward you.

Aaron Hotchner was never one to wear his heart on his sleeve. His stoic demeanor and calculated expressions were hallmarks that defined him both as the Unit Chief of the Behavioral Analysis Unit and as a man who guarded his private life fiercely.

Yet, despite his best efforts to keep his emotions under wraps, recent developments were challenging his usual composure.

You had been part of the BAU team for a couple of years now, blending seamlessly into the fabric of the group with your sharp analytical mind and equally sharp wit. You were undeniably beautiful—a fact that had not escaped the notice of the team, especially Derek Morgan. Morgan, with his charming smile and flirtatious banter, had always found a way to make his admiration for you known. The team often teased you about being 'Morgan's type,' laughter and light jests filling the air around such comments. Initially, Hotch had found it amusing, a harmless part of team dynamics. But things had changed.

Lately, his feelings for you had deepened into something more profound, something private and intensely personal. The two of you had started seeing each other outside of work, cautiously at first, but with growing seriousness. It was a secret affair, hidden behind closed doors and knowing glances that only the two of you could interpret.

However, Morgan's casual flirtations were starting to stir a feeling Hotch was unaccustomed to—jealousy. Today, during a brief downtime in the bullpen, Morgan had sauntered over to your desk, leaning close enough that his voice was exclusively yours to hear.

"Hey, pretty lady, how about we grab dinner tonight? My treat," Morgan suggested, his smile broad and inviting. The team perked up, the usual teasing poised on the tips of their tongues.

You looked up at him, your expression a mix of amusement and mild irritation, a look Hotch knew all too well. "Derek, you know I appreciate the offer, but I've got plans already," you replied, your voice steady but gentle, trying not to bruise his ego.

Morgan raised an eyebrow, his smile faltering just a bit. "Oh, come on, you always have plans. When are you gonna give me a chance?" he half-joked, half-serious—a tone that didn't go unnoticed by Hotch, who was watching the exchange from his office with a frown creasing his brow.

Garcia chimed in, passing through, her voice carrying across the room. "Morgan, you better watch out; maybe our girl here has a secret love we don't know about!"

The team laughed, and you blushed, glancing unintentionally up towards Hotch's office. Hotch's heart skipped, his own feelings mirrored in your fleeting look. It was these moments that he cherished—these brief, shared seconds where the world seemed to narrow down to just the two of you. Yet, it was also these moments that fueled his growing unease at Morgan's attentions.

Later that day, when the team was wrapping up, Hotch found you alone in the break room. He approached quietly, his demeanor serious. "Do you ever think," he began, pausing to choose his words carefully, "that it might be time to let the team in on... us?"

You looked surprised, a spoonful of coffee halfway to your lips. For a moment, Hotch looked at your lips, and that’s all he could think about--an effect only you had on him.

"I... Aaron, are you sure? It's been nice, just the two of us knowing. It feels like something just ours."

"I know," Hotch admitted, his voice low. "But seeing Morgan today, how he—"

You reached out, placing a hand over his. "Aaron, Derek is just being Derek. It doesn’t change how I feel about us. But if it’s important to you, maybe it’s time."

Hotch nodded, appreciating your reassurance. "Let's think about it a bit more," he decided, his hand turning under yours to squeeze it gently.

But life got in the way, and the time to “talk about it” wasn’t there. 

The next case had been grueling—a string of violent robberies across Virginia that had escalated into a hostage situation by the time the BAU was called in. Tensions were high as the team worked tirelessly to profile the unsub and predict his next move. You and Derek had been on site, working to establish a perimeter, when the unsub unexpectedly made a desperate, violent break, catching everyone off guard.

During the chaos, you had been hurt—an injury that seemed minor at first but was soon revealed to be more serious when you collapsed from a hidden stab wound you had sustained while trying to subdue the suspect. Derek, who had been by your side during the takedown, was riddled with guilt and insisted on accompanying you to the hospital, his protective nature in full display.

Hotch, meanwhile, was left to coordinate the wrap-up of the case, his leadership duties anchoring him to the scene. As much as he wanted to be by your side, his responsibilities as Unit Chief made it impossible for him to leave immediately. The knowledge that Derek was there with you, while he could not be, stirred a tumult of emotions within him—jealousy, frustration, and a fierce protectiveness that was unusual in its intensity.

By the time Hotch arrived at the hospital, you were already being patched up, Derek hovering nearby, his worry palpable. Hotch's arrival was quiet, his eyes immediately seeking you out in the busy emergency room. You looked pale, the pain evident in your eyes, but you managed a weak smile when you saw him.

"Aaron," you murmured, relief coloring your tone. Derek stepped aside, giving Hotch space to come closer, but his presence lingered, heavy and unmissable.

Hotch nodded to Derek briefly before turning his full attention to you. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his voice low, a controlled calm masking the storm of emotions inside him.

"It hurts, but they said I'll be fine," you replied, trying to ease the worry in his eyes. 

Derek chimed in, "She was incredible, Hotch. Took the unsub down like a pro, just got caught with a bad angle." He turned to you, “Glad I was here to hold her hand though when they patched her up.” 

Hotch's jaw tightened at Derek's words, his gaze flicking briefly to him before returning to you. "I'm just glad you're okay," he said, his hand finding yours and squeezing gently, a silent message of support and something more, something only you could understand.

Derek, a profiler after all, picking up on the subtle interplay of looks between you and Hotch, excused himself to give you some privacy, though his glance back as he left spoke volumes of his continued concern. Alone now, Hotch's expression softened.

"This thing with Derek..." Hotch began, hesitating as he searched for the right words. "Does it bother you? His attention?"

You shook your head slightly, wincing from the movement. "It's just Derek being Derek. I don't encourage it, Aaron. You know where my heart lies."

Hotch's features relaxed at your words, his thumb stroking the back of your hand gently. "I know," he admitted. "It's just hard, not being able to show... not being able to tell everyone that you're mine."

The possessiveness in his tone surprised you both, a stark contrast to his usual reserved nature. You squeezed his hand, understanding the depth of his feelings, the struggle it was for him to even voice them.

"Aaron, maybe it's time," you suggested softly. "Maybe it's time we don't have to hide anymore."

Hotch nodded, the idea settling into his thoughts like a weight lifted. "Let's talk about it when you're out of here. For now, just focus on getting better. That's what matters to me the most."

You both should have known--with your busy schedules, you might as well block out a scheduled meeting time and place it on the bureau-wide calendar to set up a time to talk. 

While on the next case, the briefing room buzzed with discussion as the team reviewed the details of the new case. It was a standard undercover operation, one that required a couple to infiltrate a high-end social circle. 

The unsub targeted women at exclusive parties, and the BAU needed a pair to blend in. Derek and you fit the profile perfectly—both attractive, confident, and capable of playing the roles effortlessly. The physical descriptions between the two of you were an ideal match as well. 

But Aaron Hotchner hated the idea. Like absolutely hated this idea. 

“It doesn’t make sense,” Hotch said firmly, arms crossed as he addressed the team. “We don’t know enough about the unsub’s habits to ensure their safety. There are too many variables.”

Rossi tilted his head, a small, knowing smile playing on his lips. “Hotch, the profile’s clear. Physically, they’re perfect. A couple in their late twenties to mid-thirties. Derek and her fit the bill. You’re overthinking this.”

JJ added, her tone light but pointed, “And honestly, it’s not like we have many other options. No offense, Rossi, but you’d stick out like a sore thumb.”

Rossi smirked. “I could charm my way through it if I had to.”

Hotch wasn’t amused. “It’s a security risk,” he said, ignoring the banter. His eyes shifted to you across the room, catching the subtle glance you threw his way. It was a look only he could decipher—a quiet reassurance, a silent message that you understood his concerns. But it did little to ease the growing tension in his chest.

“Hotch,” Emily chimed in, her voice cutting through his thoughts. “We’ve done riskier operations. She and Derek can handle this. Don’t you trust them?”

It wasn’t a question of trust. It was the idea of watching Derek, whose flirtations were already a sore spot, act like he was yours. It churned in Hotch’s gut, a raw, irrational frustration he struggled to suppress.

“Fine,” he said sharply, his tone curt as he relented. “But we keep constant surveillance, and the moment it looks like the situation is escalating, we pull them out.”

The room relaxed as the team moved on to logistics, but Hotch remained stiff, his jaw clenched as he tried to focus on the operation instead of the storm brewing inside him.

The operation started smoothly. Derek and you slipped into your roles with ease, playing the part of a glamorous couple navigating the lavish party scene. Derek’s hand rested on the small of your back as you laughed softly at something he said, your body language exuding the confidence and charm required for the role. A confidence you brought forward even in your real life. 

Hotch watched from the surveillance van, his tension palpable. He hadn’t looked away from the monitors since the operation began, his eyes tracking your every move. Derek leaned in close, whispering something in your ear, and you tilted your head toward him with a smile. It was fake—Hotch knew that. But it still set his teeth on edge.

“Hotch, you okay?” Emily asked, her voice gentle but curious. She’d noticed his rigidity, the way his hand hovered over the comms button as if he were ready to intervene at a moment’s notice. He was hyper-focused on every detail, practically looking for a reason to shut this down.

“I’m fine,” he replied tersely, not taking his eyes off the screen.

“Uh-huh,” Emily murmured, unconvinced but wisely choosing not to push.

When the operation concluded, and the unsub was apprehended, the team regrouped back at the precinct. Hotch’s mood had not improved. If anything, it had worsened.

Watching Derek touch you, hold your hand, and lean into your personal space—even for the sake of the mission—had been unbearable. It was irrational, he knew, but his emotions felt like a live wire sparking inside him.

“Well, that was fun,” Derek said, clapping you on the shoulder as the team settled into the conference room. “You were a natural out there.”

You laughed lightly, though your eyes flicked to Hotch, who stood stiffly at the edge of the room, arms crossed and jaw tight.

“Thanks, Derek,” you said, your tone kind but dismissive. You could tell something was wrong—Hotch hadn’t looked at you since the operation ended, and the air around him practically crackled with tension.

You walked over to him, keeping your voice low so the others wouldn’t hear. “Hotch, are you okay? You’ve been quiet.”

Hotch’s eyes finally met yours, dark and stormy. “I’m fine,” he said curtly, his tone sharper than you’d expected.

You flinched slightly at his words, confusion flickering across your face. “Aaron—”

“I said I’m fine,” he snapped, his voice louder now, drawing the attention of the rest of the team. The room went silent, everyone exchanging bewildered glances. Even Derek looked taken aback.

Hotch exhaled sharply, realizing he’d let his emotions slip. Without another word, he turned on his heel and stormed out of the room, leaving you standing there, stunned and embarrassed.

You caught up to him in the hallway, your heels clicking against the linoleum as you quickened your pace. “Hotch!” you called, your voice firm. “Aaron, stop!”

He did, reluctantly, turning to face you. His expression was a mix of anger and something deeper—something raw and vulnerable.

“What the hell was that?” you demanded, crossing your arms as you glared up at him. “You snapped at me in front of everyone. Do you have any idea how unprofessional that was?”

“I know,” he admitted, his voice quieter now but no less tense. “I shouldn’t have done that.”

“Then why did you?” you pressed, stepping closer. “What’s going on with you?”

Hotch looked away, his jaw tightening again. “I didn’t like seeing you with Derek,” he admitted after a long pause. “I didn’t like him touching you, acting like—”

“Like what?” you interrupted, your tone softening as understanding dawned. “Like we were a couple? We were undercover!”

He nodded, his gaze finally meeting yours. “It’s irrational, I know. But I hated it. I hated every second of it.”

A small smile tugged at your lips, despite the tension between you. “Aaron, it was just a role. You know that.”

“I do,” he said, stepping closer. “But that doesn’t change how I feel. I never thought of myself as a possessive man, but with you... I wouldn’t mind if the world knew you were mine.”

You stared at him for a moment, your expression softening as you placed a hand on his chest. “Then maybe it’s time they do. We keep saying it.”

Hotch’s shoulders relaxed slightly at your words, the weight of his emotions finally easing. “Maybe it is,” he agreed, his hand covering yours. “But first, I owe you an apology.”

“You do,” you said teasingly, though your tone was gentle. “And you might want to apologize to Derek, too. He looked like a kicked puppy.”

Hotch sighed, a faint smile breaking through his grumpy demeanor. “One step at a time.”

And that one step at a time was forgoing every other responsibility until this conversation happened. What came from that was the decision and action to tell the rest of the team. 

After updating your supportive coworkers, Hotch watched you move around his bedroom with a contented ease that warmed his heart. 

You had just slipped into one of his shirts, the fabric hanging loosely on your frame—a sight that never failed to stir something deep within him. As you began brushing your hair in front of the dresser mirror, he leaned against the door frame, arms crossed, still processing the team's reactions from earlier that day.

"They took it better than I expected," Hotch commented, breaking the comfortable silence. His tone was reflective, a hint of amusement in his eyes as he recalled the varying expressions of surprise and support from the team.

You turned to face him, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of your lips. "I think Garcia already had a betting pool going for when we'd finally admit it," you teased, setting the brush down. "Though I'm pretty sure Derek was the most relieved to have it out in the open."

Hotch's expression darkened momentarily at the mention of Derek, recalling the tension of the past weeks. "Relieved isn't the word I'd use."

"Oh?" You walked over to him, a mischievous glint in your eye. "Are you sure it wasn't just because you stopped glaring daggers at him every time he came near me?"

"I was not glaring," Hotch countered, though a faint smile betrayed his defensive tone. "It was strategic observation."

"Strategic observation?" You laughed, wrapping your arms around his neck. "Is that what we're calling jealousy these days?"

Hotch sighed, the corners of his mouth twitching upward as he placed his hands on your waist. "I was concerned, not jealous. As your unit chief, I had to make sure he was remaining professional."

"Concerned," you echoed, nodding exaggeratedly. "Concerned enough to nearly have a coronary every time Derek played his part a bit too convincingly."

"I did not—"

You cut him off with a quick peck on the lips, silencing his protest. "You know, I thought it was kind of hot," you whispered, your voice low and teasing.

"Hot?" Hotch raised an eyebrow, his hands tightening slightly on your waist.

"Mmm," you hummed in affirmation. "Seeing you get all possessive. I half expected you to mark your territory somehow. Maybe a tattoo on my forehead that says 'Property of Hotch.'"

Hotch laughed, the sound rich and genuine. "I think a tattoo might be a bit excessive, but maybe they could add a spot on your badge," he conceded, making you laugh. His eyes softened with affection. "But I can't deny that the idea of everyone knowing you're with me doesn't have its appeal."

"I could see it in your eyes," you continued, playful and light. "One more flirty comment from Derek, and you might have started a BAU brawl."

"I would have handled it professionally," Hotch assured you, his voice laced with mock seriousness.

"Of course," you agreed, a twinkle in your eye. "Professionally pinning Derek to the ground in a fit of 'strategic observation.'"

Hotch shook his head, his smile lingering as he leaned in to kiss you gently. "I'm just glad we don't have to hide anymore," he murmured against your lips.

"Me too," you replied, your voice soft. "No more secrets. Just us."

"Just us," Hotch repeated, pulling you closer. The weight of the secrets they'd carried felt lifted, and as he held you in his arms, the quiet of the night wrapping around them, Aaron Hotchner felt a profound sense of peace settle over him. Here, in this moment, with you, everything was exactly as it should be.

Tag List: @zaddyhotch @estragos @todorokishoe24 @looking1016  @khxna @rousethemouse @averyhotchner @reidfile @bernelflo @lover-of-books-and-tea @frickin-bats @sleepysongbirdsings @justyourusualash @person-005 @iyskgd @hiireadstuff @kcch-ns @alexxavicry

[australet789]

Some assholes on Instagram saying that Epic fans are "gaslighting" themselves about Odysseus being faithful to Penelope because of the Circe part and being pretentious about it and how we are stupid for considering The Odyssey romantic

Motherfucker

1. The Odyssey is an epic poem we all fucking know that? That it's a tragedy, technically comedy (comedy in ancient literature used to mean "happy ending", not funny stuff)

2. The Circe bit can be interpreted in different ways, as if it was fully consensual or not or just a transaction. There was still a difference in power dynamics, which was 100% mentioned by Calypso in the beginning, but if you choose to ignore that part if the same as saying some of Zeus' kids were ok to be conceived because the women agreeded to what A GOD wanted.

3. Obviously Epic!Odysseus is differente from Homer!Odysseus, but trying to say Homer! Odysseus is a horrible person that fully wanted to cheat on Penelope just because you want to defend ALEXANDER HAMILTON, i have bad news about you.

4. "The crew had to beg to go back!" I read the Odyssey too. As a child and a few days ago. They stayed on Circe's island to rest so Odysseus job as a captain was literally wait until his crew told him they were ready to leave, specially after what they have lived. Odysseus didnt force anyone to stay in that island, when the crew went "oh, sir, we miss our families, please lets go back now, yes?" Odysseus immediately said "ok". It literally felt like a father waiting for the kids to stop playing in the playground.

5. Homer!Odysseus is not perfect, at all (man killed his disloyal maids because he didnt want to deal with shit anymore, even if they also were coerced/raped by the suitors), but come with a better gotcha than Circe. You are just fixiated on the Telegony and it shows.

6. Idk what to tell you, but if you think renouncing a life with two inmortal godesses (one of whom offered you immortality), traveling for 10 years defying a God's rage, killing 108 men who wanted to marry your wife (and ruined your house), almost killed yourself when said wife rejected you only for her to go "haha i was just testing you, silly :)", have your literally marriage have a word created for you two specifically is not romantic... Idk go read Bridgerton

[venus-ratt]

Can we take a moment to appreciate how genuinely kind Pomni is?

Most interpretations of her often focus more on the anxious side of her personality, forgetting this part of her character.

In ep 4 she notices that Gangle isn’t doing ok and does her best to help, despite having only like one interaction with her up to that point.

Some people found this specific line rude, but I actually think it’s just meant as a meta-joke about the show’s formula, where Pomni has a heart-to-heart with a specific character at some point in previous episodes.

There’s also the fact that, at least to me, comforting others doesn’t come naturally to her. In this scene, and even back in episode 2, she sounds unsure of herself, taking long pauses like she’s trying to find the right words. She’s awkward, but you can tell she really means well. It’s clear she genuinely wants to help and is doing her best. I also think she doesn’t see herself as someone qualified to give advice, which is probably why she suggests Gangle talk to Ragatha instead.

Then there’s this scene. If she had only comforted Gangle earlier because she happened to find her crying, she wouldn’t have gone out of her way to do this. She doesn’t push Gangle to open up, she knows that won't help. She just sees her struggling and chooses to help, showing through her actions that she cares. Honestly, it’s not a stretch to say Pomni might be the reason Gangle is still there, but you probably already know that.

It’s also worth mentioning that Gangle wasn’t exactly nice to Pomni earlier. She had at least some idea of how important Gummigoo was to Pomni (she saw her reaction to his death) but still got upset with her for trying to talk to him. Of course, that wasn’t gangle being mean for the sake of being mean. She was afraid of losing the authority she had finally achieved after being walked all over for so long. I think Pomni realized it wasn’t personal and that her reaction was related to Gangle’s own issues, which is why she didn't brought up the interaction later.

That’s something I’ve noticed about Pomni, she’s really compassionate and doesn’t hold grudges.

You can also see this in episode 3. Kinger was the reason she got dragged into the scariest adventure after explicitly saying she can't handle horror well. But she never blamed him for it. She was clearly terrified and miserable the whole time, but she didn't get mad at Kinger for putting her in that situation. Instead, she redirected her frustration at Caine and the adventure itself. The closest she came to blaming Kinger was just not denying he was the reason they ended up there when he pointed it out.

Honestly, Pomni being so nice was such a pleasant surprise. Before episode 2, I thought her character would go in a completely different direction. I’m so glad I was wrong.

[brittle-doughie]

Could I request a starfruit vs elderberry stuff??; I love them both so much.,,,,,.,..,.,.

It’s Astrology vs Astronomy from here on out.

Perhaps you do side with Elderberry Cookie on this one, thinking more logically when it comes down to how the stars behave and such! There was no need to follow a sort of guidance to know what was going on if you can just observe the sky to accurately get down the facts.

Of course that leaves Starfruit Cookie hurt that you’d choose to go with Elderberry Cookie on how the stars can be interpreted and that her whole belief was simply a fluke. No, Elderberry was the one to place the seed of doubt in your head and it was up to her to prove him wrong!

——

Or maybe you go with Starfruit Cookie on this debate. You do have previous experience when it comes to her guidance and have witnessed it firsthand. Elderberry can’t write off everything having an explanation to it, sometimes only the stars themselves can show you many things that likely have never been known about in documentation.

Elderberry Cookie couldn’t believe it when you decided to entertain Starfruit Cookie’s “guidance” and knowing of the stars. Everything had to have an explanation behind it and to see you so easily fall under Starfruit’s influence only make him more determined to prove himself!

[tamayula-hl]

TAMA IT'S YOUR DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE WE WANT TO SEE!! It's no matter if cultural values are different - because the story you want to write is filtered through YOUR lens, the characters are interpreted through your lens only, a.k.a. you set the philosophical/cultural context of your story regardless of the original context your source material is based on. If you use your SebxOC dynamic (you have already explained her background in your OC posts), the dual cultural values will actually factor in your story in an extremely fitting manner.

I would really, really like to see things your way, or even how you interpet a foreign value system in your story. This is one of the reasons I think you don't need to be writing in English! I know it is discouraging to know people are losing the nuances of your work by putting it through a translator, because there are subtleties to every language which cannot be caught when translated ('male' and 'female' speech, choosing a level of distance/formality, relation of the individual self to the mass public etc.), but please know we will try to catch on as well as we can! Don't dilute your work for us, even if you feel the need to - it's the reader's job to interpret the text, not the author's to explain it!

I'm excited to read everything you write - writing is never useless in a fandom. You never know if what you write is exactly what someone wants to read!! GO TAMA!!

Aww, I'm really grateful and happy to receive such strong words of encouragement. Thank you so much🙇‍ I want to write a novel about the charm of the Wizarding World and HL characters seen through the perspective and values ​​of Sakurako, a typical Japanese person, and the dynamics of how a woman with Japanese values ​​interacts with Sebastian, and as you say, I think that if I were to write a novel in this fandom, I would have to use these differences in values ​​as a weapon.

And it was really encouraging to hear you say that I can just submit the novel in Japanese. However, if I take the time to write and post a novel, I want as many people as possible to read it, and considering that almost no one has read the Japanese novels I have posted in the past, I think I may need to translate the novel into English for my own sake 🥹

And because sentences that maintain the style of a Japanese novel will end up in English that are quite strange and incomprehensible even if I use DeepL or ChatGPT (mainly sentences that are considered more beautiful when omitting the subject, which is unique to Japanese, are a huge hurdle when translating into English), I think I will write Japanese sentences that are easy for machines to read, such as ChatGPT, and that clearly state the subject (and that are very strange and unrefined from a Japanese speaker's perspective).

Sentences that are refined as Japanese while retaining the unique nuances of a Japanese novel and sentences that are easy to translate into machine translation are completely different, and it is a very difficult choice to decide which one to discard. Should I post both the original Japanese version and the English translation? 🤣 Anyway, this language barrier is really bothering and bothering me.

If I had English skills, this problem would be almost solved, but I regret and feel ashamed that I didn't study English as hard as I could for the past two years. First of all, I'm going to start by writing out the lines that appear in HL's main quest line and Seb's quest line in English, reading their meanings, and memorizing them. 🥹 I have to continue studying art, and this is the beginning of days where I will have to cut down on my eating and sleeping time even more. 💪

[dude1818]

I had a dream last night that Gideon the Ninth had been formatted like a CYOA book, but with the paths determined by which reread you were on. So certain scenes weren't present the first time you read it, but you "unlocked" them on a reread, once you already knew the first level of twist. Sort of like how Harrow the Ninth played out, but much more explicitly. And in the ebook version, it chooses the paths automatically, so the reader doesn't even realize that's happening

My dream also added a whole extra murder mystery/suicide pact conspiracy subplot to the events at Canaan House, rather than Cytherea acting on her own, but all of that was locked behind rereads, with just some super vague hints in the main story. I knew there was a secret second story but I could not wrap my head around it, until I discovered that the settings in my ebook were messed up and were filtering out whole sections and chapters, and it was like that Always Sunny pinboard meme

At that point I had to come up with content for the hidden story. There was a larger rebel group in the Empire that had figured out that drowning yourself let you return your consciousness to your bones[?] in the River, and they did that for infiltration missions. [Something about drowning == River, and no natural bodies of water outside the First House?] There was a sequence where Pal and Cam knew that one of them had to be sacrificed for Reasons, and they each kept trying to commit suicide without the other knowing, but then kept saving the other just in time. This was played entirely for laughs. And finally, Ortus was raised by just his father in this version, who tried giving him some philosophical message before he hung himself. Ortus instead interpreted it as his mother was really an alien who had died in a space installation in orbit around the Ninth House, and they were all a kind of ant using their skeletons to build a tower up to it. [I think I was conflating Children of Time and the Soviet nuclear bunker ant colony.] I realized it had lost coherence at this point and woke up

[wingedshadowfan]

‘so long as caitlyn was truly there to help. and if she wasn't, she believed jinx could kill her and, well, vi probably thought in that case she had it coming. by not telling her jinx would be there, she basically sentenced caitlyn to death at the hands of her sister if caitlyn didn't do her part of the plan.’

So you think vi was fine with jinx killing cait if she didn’t prove herself, that she would have it coming? I think you have a good point and it makes me see vi in a different light cause i never saw cait sentencing vi to death no matter what

thank you sm for this question, I'll try my best to explain my thought process!!

i did fear for a while that this interpretation of mine was taking it too far, but i sincerely believe two things:

vi loves caitlyn (and i even argue she knows caitlyn loves her back, despite their fallout) but caitlyn is not family. and family is everything.

vi's family was forged in the dirt, hunger and violence of the undercity over her foundational years spent in adversity and oppression. family is to be lead and protected at all costs (whether it's by vander or by vi, whom he taught this). vi has grown up so much and become who she is only to be able carry the responsibility for her family's safety - remember, she's only so good at keeping her family safe bcuz she's terrified of losing it. this is what made her who she is. it's everything to her.

caitlyn, romantic love, although also in similar conditions, was forged in the first days of vi's freedom, when she was still looking for her family, her true purpose, and is thus something deeply personal to her. it's a luxury and an indulgence bcuz while vi deeply cares for her, she doesn't necessarily lead caitlyn or feel responsibility for her the same way she does for her family. she believes (or thinks it'll be less painful to believe) that, like most good things, this love isn't here to stay ("oil and water"). it's just a thing she can allow herself for a bit before she gets to her family (powder) again. she does grow more attached to caitlyn, and i think she's the closest to seeing caitlyn as smth at the same level of family somwhere between cassandra's death and before their fight - that's where it all crumbles.

vi decidedly doesn't want caitlyn dead but if she had to choose between jinx killing caitlyn and caitlyn harming their family (again, now), she wouldn't think twice.

but then i think abt how vi has chosen jinx at the risk of disastrous consequences before (and she does it again after too), in fact, she's chosen jinx above everything - and an enormous part of why she forgives caitlyn is that caitlyn shows vi she understands and respects this before the jail sex scene. i think choosing jinx, choosing family, is an incredibly foundational part of vi's character that she only started dismantling in that very scene: vi chose caitlyn, yes, but in that vi also chose herself.

this is why i feel like at the edge of the noxian camp, having just reunited w/ caitlyn who she no longer really trusts, and left jinx to keep watch of vander at the commune, she'd trust jinx's judgement abt caitlyn (again, seeing how "stable" jinx was in the tunnels and in the commune now that she's w/out silco's influences and w/ isha instead)

if caitlyn simply betrays vi again and doesn't do anything to help, stays aside or remains neutral when singed and rictus attempt to take vander, that's a fool me twice, and vi would blame herself for it. but if caitlyn actively tries to harm her family (jinx/vander/perhaps even isha) now that vi is so close to finally having it back again, i think it would leave vi no choice but to let caitlyn go for good. she might still mourn her after jinx kills her, but she'd know it's for the best since she might think caitlyn had changed too much from the person vi fell in love with and was beyond saving from her own desire for revenge. i think in that moment vi chose family - and in this i can't help thinking of the look she casts caitlyn when she reunites w/ jinx, vander, and isha in their group hug/nuzzle situation

vi also tells jinx, he's your father too, and invites her in, additionally showing caitlyn how she feels abt jinx despite everything jinx has done and you can see the gears turning in caitlyn's head (perhaps loving someone despite such crimes seems unthinkable to caitlyn, but caitlyn didn't grow up in zaun where ppl have to stick together and do what it takes and fight to survive, where no one gets left behind)

it all screams: this is me, this is my family, they're everything to me and they will always come first for me

[starkidlabs]

I feel like there are various ways to interpret Ellen’s relationship with Count Orlok in Nosferatu (2024). Ultimately, It’s a really complicated, layered relationship of lust, shame and toxicity, and the elements of the relationship that are most present depends on the audience member. But what I don’t understand is how anyone could believe that Ellen never truly loved Thomas and that she only wanted Orlok. I’ve seen so many posts dismissing their relationship, saying things which imply that ‘of course Ellen would choose Orlok over Thomas, he’s so weak’. Yet It’s so clear that she very much loved Thomas until the very end, no matter the fate she ultimately chose for herself. I think it’s weird how so many people act like Thomas loved Ellen but she never truly loved him back. Thomas was the only person that ever made Ellen feel safe. The fact that she shouts ‘He has come’ upon Thomas’ arrival, when you expect her to be talking of Orlok, really indicates that their love is just as powerful as the hold Orlok has over her. I don’t know it just makes me sort of sad that people choose to ignore Ellen’s powerful love for her husband, it feels like stripping back such an essential part of her character and her agency.

[avatarcompanion]

I just don't get why some people interpret Mak/orra as this "physically passionate with fiery emotions, but incompatible" or "just based on teenage hormones and sexual attraction, but lacking deeper emotions" relationship either when defending or critiquing it.

Specifically on Mako's side, Asami is for Mako definitely the relationship that was mostly based on physical attraction and passion, and this is very evident in the first scene where they meet. It's also obviously much more (surface level) 'stable' and in a way more romantically compatible and comfortable than his relationship with Korra. Mako could have been 'fine' dating Aasmi, he had a great woman that he was really attracted to, and that's half the point. He doesn't choose Korra because he's "more hormonally attracted" to her - like there is actually 0 scenes even indicating Mako is that physically attracted to Korra. He chose her because it's emotionally disruptive and significant for him. That was the relationship that pushed him in a new direction and inspired him to change. It takes awhile for him to realize he is served better admiring Korra in this way in a platonic manner, outside of a romantic relationship - but his core appreciation for her doesn't change form.

On Korra's side, the relatioship basically represents her teenage idealism. She'd been isolated most of her youth, so Mako is probably her first actual crush, and it's based on the things she valued the most at the time. Mako is an extremely capable bender to the level that he matches her. The scene where Korra "falls" for Mako is watching him probend! Also this whole idea of their relationship as "we drive each other mad, but it makes me hot" lasts literally 0.5 seconds for Korra. There is no indication that Korra is turned on by anger. There's like 1 scene where she tries to rile up Mako to admit he likes her in a bravado manner, and 1 time they kiss during (not even) an argument, but it's overall depicted that all the fighting makes Korra extremely miserable, unable to be vulnerable with Mako and it does not in fact enhance some sort of physical hotness, but largely takes away from it. Later, Korra realizes she actually wants to express her own feelings as part of her romantic attraction and connection and realizes she can't do that with Mako.

Ironically, there are actually more scenes where Korra expresses direct physical admiration of Asami than of Mako even in book 1, whereas the show itself frames Korra's main admiration for Mako's skill as a bender. It also builds their relationship mostly on mutual trust that isn't physical or emotional, but about relying on each other in dangerous situations. When it comes to actually emotionally intimate scenes, Korra doesn't show that deep trust in Mako in several instances, or being comfortable expressing herself more deeply with him: her main trust in him is out "on the field". Which continues to be the thing that Korra appreciates about Mako long after they stop being romantically involved, she knows he's "got her back" and she trusts him completely on that level.

Again this isn't really a defense or a critique of the relationship, just how I interpret their tumultuous but significant relatively short-lived romance that turned into a life-long friendship and mutual admiration as shown/implied in canon.

[katerinaaqu]

I would only argue that assault DID exist back then and it was also punished (see the story of Locrian Ajax and Cassandra) and Homer DOES mention how Calypso sleeps with him "willing while he is not" so in here assault or coercion definitely applies. Up to what degree and how far back is a subject of debate but the subject of coercion DOES exist.

What is more Odysseus refuses to be bathed by the handmaidens of Nausicaa right after his misadventure even if it was standard procedure and not considered shameful for a man being washed by female handmaidens. Odysseus even allowed Helen herself wash him at Troy. So the choice of Homer's to place his refusal to be washed by servants makes one wonder.

With Circe exists the lack of choice at least at first for we have Hermes that clearly tells Odysseus he cannot refuse and his men were hostages. Absolutely you cannot apply modern day justice system there or interpret that to the totality or just one way but certain aspects are there. Not to mention Odysseus speaks on his fear for her in the actual ancient text ao that also seems an interesting factor. Can we really completely exclude the potential of coercion completely because "it is an ancient story"? In my opinion no. On the contrary. I had answered an ask before for example:

In there i also link my answer to Calypso matter but I also translate the passages from the original text to show some samples on his fear on Circe. This fear is essential in my opinion.

Now to what degree one can apply their interpretation is anybody's guess. However i think it is not 100% right to exclude the existence of coercion or the hints of assault or forceful situations because that as well I think misses the hints Homer himself seems to drop. I think it is not a coincidence that Odyssey speaks so intensely on fear or that Homer speaks on him being unwilling by Calypso's side or that he doesn't allow the servants to wash him when he had no problem before. So I choose middle ground here.

i’m so sick of the “odysseus cheated” debate… because it’s always “odysseus was loyal, circe and calypso assaulted him” vs “odysseus cheated because he slept with circe and calypso”. YOU CAN’T APPLY MODERN MORALS TO A STORY WRITTEN THOUSANDS OF YEARS AGO…. what odysseus did with circe and calypso wasn’t considered assault OR cheating….he was loyal to penelope either way…..tell me you understand that

[saucy-mesothelioma]

In honor of my partner and I finishing our first Slay the Princess playthrough, I started a little project against my better judgment and wanted to share a little bit of it. This bit contains spoilers for the beginning of The Nightmare's route as well as how you get on the route in the first place. I've already written for The Tower as well as the offshoots of The Fury and The Apotheosis, but The Nightmare is my girl and I love her, hence why I'm posting what I've written for her so far. It didn't format well from the doc to Tumblr, so just be warned that there's a few giant blocks of text below the cut

He sits in front of you, weaponless and vulnerable as he gives his interrogation. But you do not strike. Instead, you play the victim. There’s no reason to make this harder than it needs to be, and if you can convince him to simply free you, that would make things far more simple. You maintain your facade of the defenseless and scared princess, taking extra care to assure that your voice never loses that pathetic waver. You’re certain that he finally believes you and that you’re about to be set free from these confines, but then he makes the suggestion of keeping you down here to chat. That is enough to make you lose your patience. Your face immediately drops the big doe-eyes and trembling lip to be replaced with a look that is far more cunning and threatening. You assure him that one way or another, you are getting out of this cabin. And if he doesn’t help you, he won’t like what happens. If it’s from dropping the act or testing your threat you aren’t sure, but he makes the decision to simply walk out and leave you here. Your voice shakes with barely-contained hatred as you watch him leave and hear the door to the basement shut, leaving you alone and cold in the dark once more. You start to hyperventilate, adrenaline born from fear and anger coursing through your veins. You have spent your entire existence trapped in this godforsaken basement, and when you finally meet another living creature, someone who could’ve been your hope and salvation, they turn away and abandon you. You can’t do this anymore. You can’t be alone. You won’t be alone. You refuse to be alone. And as your fear and panic and anger rises, you let out a piercing wail that could shatter glass. You free yourself from your chains and make a frenzied dash for the stairs. You trip over yourself as you scramble to reach the door, your nails leaving scratches in the old wood as you grab onto anything to maintain your ascent. And when you finally reach the door, you pound on it and throw yourself against the wood. He’s blockaded the door, you can tell because of the resistance every time you smash your body against it. But you refuse to stop even as bruises begin to blossom over your skin and splinters dig into your flesh. You will not be abandoned again, and you will do whatever is necessary to keep that from happening.

You call out to him as you bang on the door, your voice broken and crazed. You all but beg to be let out, assuring him that this door can’t hold you for long and suggesting that he get on your good side. When he doesn’t respond, you increase your efforts tenfold, threatening to tear him apart. You will never forget what he’s done to you, nor will you ever forgive it. And then he has the audacity to call you a monster, for putting on an act. Your mind reels at that accusation, and your voice begins to grow hoarse as you accuse him right back of teasing you with the fresh air and freedom you so desperately crave. He doesn’t answer once more, and you bite back a scream of despair as you throw yourself against the door again and again and again and again. You don’t know how long you abused your body with these repetitions, but finally the door gives way and you burst through to the other side. You stand there for a moment, breath coming in ragged, wheezing pants as you crumple to the ground. Your body aches with every breath and you can’t stop trembling. Your throat is raw from the screaming and your hands are bleeding, nails horribly broken and fingers and palms covered with splinters. Your wavy hair is matted with sweat, dust, and blood. But none of that matters, because you can feel the night air through the windows of the cabin.

You choke out a sob of relief as you sit there, letting the tears fall down your face. You’re finally free. But your job isn’t done yet. When your eyes clear, you can see him asleep against the opposite wall, and your heart is filled with a cold vengeance. You could easily kill him now, but you want to make him suffer for what he did to you. As you stare at his sleeping body, something in you snaps. You twitch, and your body twitches with you, blinking in and out of existence. So he thinks you’re a monster? Well, then you’ll make him wish this was a nightmare. When he wakes up, he’s immediately in a panic as he notices the door is now ajar. And then you appear before him, grinning madly. His terror intensifies, and you can feel it feeding directly into your newfound ability. As you move closer, blinking in and out of reality like a ghost, you notice that he is quite literally paralyzed with fear. Your manic grin widens, and you taunt him. You’re going to play with him. And you’re going to make it last. As you move forward step by step, you can feel his organs shutting down one by one due to your mere proximity. As his lungs and heart finally cease, you look down at his still body and can’t help but be disappointed. He didn’t last as nearly as long as you’d hope to get your revenge, but at least he’s dead. You have lost your toy, but you have gained your freedom. Or so you thought. The cabin wouldn’t let you leave, even if you tried to drag his body with you. You’ve been abandoned once again.

You awaken to find that your basement has become a dark and barren wonderland. It is filled with shifting shadows and watching eyes: the perfect playground. You feel his presence the second he steps into the basement, and you smile. Your toy has come back to play, and you’ll make sure that he doesn’t break so quickly this time. Even though you’re nowhere near him, you tease and taunt him, letting him know just how much you look forward to playing with him once more. He descends further into your maze and cold joy spreads through your body. You have your toy back, and you’re going to ensure that he will never leave you again. And when he turns right, you finally come face to face with him. You approach him, and already his body begins to shut down. The power you had gained before has increased dramatically, although there are a few setbacks. Your body is unstable and acts more like a phantom as you float and blink in and out of reality at a far more rapid pace than when you started. But to say you didn’t like it would be a lie; you’re far more terrifying this way. And terror is exactly what you need from your little toy. You’re barely inches from his face now, and he almost collapses as his organs immediately fail. But against all odds, he somehow manages to pull himself back from the brink of death. You’re surprised, but you couldn’t be more delighted. It’s more fun this way. He asks you questions and you answer, teasing him occasionally by coming even closer to bring him closer to death before allowing him to claw his way back. You need him alive to leave, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with him first.

[each-uisge-enthusiast]

the modern villainisation of demeter will never cease to enrage me bc it wasn’t ENOUGH to just take a story of a girl being torn from her home from everyone who loved her and dragged away to be forced into marriage and twist and corrupt it until it was a romance story about female empowerment that wasn’t ENOUGH they HAD to take the original hero of the story the mother who went to every length to find her daughter again to bring her home and demonise her character until she was this horrific overbearing unloving mother. overprotective controlling without love. they turn the story of her grief at her YOUNG daughter being torn from her without her knowledge into the story of a misunderstood bad boy and a horrible cruel mother who won’t give him a chance and i really find it sickening. it’s ironic, that the ever misogynist age of hellenistic greece, has a better grasp of how disgusting and horrifying this situation was that a modern, self proclaimed ‘feminist’ era.

[possamble]

What are your headcanons about Marcille's mom if you have any? It's interesting that what drew Donato to her was cause she lived the history he studied, or that was said somewhere at least. She must've had an interesting life.

so this was going to be just a normal answer but then I realized I have a Lot of Things To Say. so here goes, a compilation of what we know for a fact from the canon, what I've extrapolated from the visual cues and details, and my theories based on all of that.

Things we know for a fact about Marcille's mother because they were explicitly stated in the manga and supplemental materials:

She was a court mage for a Tall-man kingdom at the southern part of the Northern Continent

Donato, a court historian, fell in love with her because she had lived through the history he was studying, and he courted her for 17 years (age 15 to 32) before getting married

She was a cheerful person who rarely showed extreme emotion and took things as they came

She always cooked a huge meal for Marcille on her birthdays

She remarried a gnome after Donato's death and a short distance away from Marcille's childhood home

Pipi, Marcille's pet bird, was actually older than Marcille and originally belonged to her mother (bird died at 62)

She was extremely heartbroken when Donato died and ultimately ended up instilling a deep fear of mortality in Marcille with her words

the only time she showed extreme emotion in front of her family was when Donato could no longer eat his favourite dish near the end of his life.

She scolded Marcille for being cruel to ants (implying she can have a stern side when needed)

Things that are explicitly shown but mostly through visual cues

She has a very distinctive style of dress always involving a ribbon choker (mirroring Marcille's habit of always wearing a matching choker with any of her outfits that don't cover her neck)

She was almost stereotypically good at housekeeping and traditionally "wifely" things (very frequently depicted wearing an apron or doing some domestic chore when not at work, seems to have been an avid cook).

She knits? (also, note the affectionate smile as she's looking at Donato and Marcille reading a book together in the full panel)

She was as excited for Marcille's milestones as Donato was.

She didn't tell Marcille much about elven food

(there are a couple things that this panel in particular implies:

She lived a good deal of her life (if not being born and raised) in a mainly elven country in the West, implied by her knowing enough of an elven region's cuisine to prefer Tall-man food over it

seems to have a pretty carefree and casual demeanour overall, if this is how she replied to Marcille asking her about it (sounds like she never gave her culinary preferences that much thought to begin with)

slightly related to number 2, it seems like she and Marcille had a fairly casual parent-child dynamic (especially in comparison to the Toudens' memory of their father)

(local elf tastes Italian food once and never goes back))

However, she seems a lot more... serious in most of the other times we see her? Almost like the very stereotypical archetype of a graceful elf.

Subsequent conclusions about her personality:

Usually pretty carefree and cheerful at home, has been a loving and attentive parent throughout Marcille's childhood (while not being so doting that she didn't discipline Marcille).

Slightly more conjectural theories on her personality:

Had a much more graceful and professional personality at work, which would explain the more serious portraits we see of her.

Given that both she and Donato had positions at the royal court, it seems a little odd that she'd go out of her way to do all the housework herself, so maybe she just enjoyed doing it?

Now taping all the evidence together and toeing the line between analysis and fanfiction:

It's clear that she loved Donato very much and was utterly devastated by losing him. But there's one thing that really stuck out to me in what little we see of her:

Doesn't she seem... angry? The way she's gritting her teeth, clutching the tablecloth, and how this is the first and only time we see her eyes opened that wide. In the following panel, you see her being quiet and dejected after her initial outburst. She's still crying very intensely, but her brows are furrowed, and she's not really responding to Donato's affection in her body language.

We're not told the details of how she felt about losing Donato other than that it upset her. But this, to me, implies that she was angry and resented that he was aging, that the end of his life was approaching. An "it's not fair" type of preemptive grief. And if this was the first and last time she cried like this in front of her family, she was either very good at coping in private... or very bad at letting herself feel unpleasant emotions until they become unavoidable and end up overwhelming her.

It's not too remarkable a detail on the surface. It's even reminiscent of what the audience has seen of Marcille. But... when it comes to the big picture, you'd think an elf who voluntarily chose to marry a tall-man and have a half-elf child would have been better prepared for this.

It kind of recontextualizes her cheerfulness to me.

"I'm sure everything's gonna be okay!" (or some variation thereof, depending on what translation you have).

And this is stated to contrast her extreme grief when finally confronting Donato's failing body and eventual death. But I'm wondering if... maybe this optimism was why she was so upset. What if she went into all of it thinking "everything's gonna be okay"? What if she was a little young by elven standards, and just followed her heart thinking that her own resilience would get her through anything?

Of course, only to get completely overwhelmed when she actually loses Donato. She turns into a completely different person. And that's heartbreaking on its own-- but what the audience sees is the effect it had on Marcille. Can you imagine being her, watching your invincible and upbeat mother suddenly lose all the light in her eyes in one go?

I've already made a huge post about how I think Marcille models her "work persona" off her mother, but another thing that stuck with me as I was looking for more details in the manga was this:

copy pasting from the other post i made about it lmao it's like... the second she resigns herself to lifelong pain and terror, there's another portrait of her mother facing her like this. with their heads bowed, in mirrored body language of resignation and despair and sorrow. Except it's posed like Marcille is still looking at her mother but her mother is looking away.

It took me a second to realize, but I think that it's a visual metaphor for the fact that Marcille's mother was the only long-lived role model she had-- and she failed to model healthy grief for her daughter. I don't say this as an accusation or to disparage her as a character, but just as a matter of fact. In her, Marcille was seeing herself older and losing a short-lived spouse or loved one of her own, and all she saw was hopelessness.

But her mother didn't mean to instill hopelessness and terror in her. She wasn't really thinking of how it would truly affect Marcille at all (at least, that's how I'm interpreting her looking down and away from Marcille in the metaphor), she was just sad. And she, in her own way, was trying to protect her daughter and help her prepare for future losses.

What she meant was "loss is inevitable, and you have to learn how to be in pain but live on anyway." What Marcille heard was "loss is inevitable, and you will be scared and hurt for the rest of your life."

Again. Marcille's mother doesn't feature explicitly in the story the way her father does -- but in so many ways, her shadow, her silhouette, her reflection is always hanging over Marcille.

All that to say... headcanon-wise (everything from here on is 100% without evidence lmao), I'd like to think that she matured and realized that she failed Marcille. I imagine her being regretful about it, wanting a chance to fix it but never finding a way to insert herself back into Marcille's life when Marcille is so so so busy becoming the most accomplished mage possible. I imagine her being herself again, now, so many years after her loss and after remarrying -- but with her cheerfulness tempered with a lot more wisdom and the pain of having gone through loss like that. I think the second Marcille actually tells her what happened in the dungeon, she'd want to go running to her daughter again -- if Marcille tells her the full truth instead of just being embarrassed she let things get that far. (oh, the tragedy of her wanting to be more like her mother and an accomplished adult who doesn't need to be babied... being embarrassed to actually tell her mother how much she fucked up...)

There's also the tension of her having remarried -- I know that there's at least a little bit of resentment that Marcille harbours about that, because she's childish like that at heart even if she makes an effort not to externalize it. I think that her mother would be aware of that, potentially adding to her sense of guilt and apprehension at trying to reappear/intrude on Marcille's life. I honestly don't think Marcille has met her stepfather -- or even considers him a stepfather rather than "mama's new husband" and kind of a total stranger. I think she and her mother actively don't talk about it in their correspondence, like an elephant in the room.

but, ultimately, I think her mother is on her side no matter what. Ancient magic? Dark necromancy? Sure, she'll feel guilty and like she was partially responsible for setting Marcille down such a painful path, but she wouldn't care. that's her daughter!! she would've moved back west and been petitioning for her at the court, buying a house right next to the Canaries barracks and visiting her every day that she wasn't on a mission. And if her husband had opinions on Marcille becoming a "dark arts user," he either gets over it or it's divorce with him. Yes, she might have had her optimism completely humbled by losing Donato like that -- but she's still headstrong and self-assured and she doesn't care what people think of her. It's her way or the highway and she's always going to be in Marcille's corner.

(She also needs a name lol. I went with Juno, just to be cute about "Marcille"s closest real life equivalent being Marcella, which is the female version of Marcellus, which in turn is a diminutive of Marcus, which was derived from Mars. Absolutely in love with Marcille potentially being named after Ares/Mars the fucking god of war btw)

[rafayelsbelovedbride]

Sometimes, when I see MC is the problem comments, I can't help but compare MC to how dragons are described in these stories.

Especially for "drawing out the hidden parts of one's heart", "harbinger of world's end", and being a scapegoat in general part.

I think it's really interesting seeing "problem MC" being the interpretation on a surface level, because it still somehow fits the narrative.

For all LIs, MC is the one who brings out their desire. Desire to love, to be loved, to care, and to be cared for. She enters their lives unexpectedly and loves them with a heart so pure that they have no other choice but to give the same devotion back to her. With Rafayel, she meets him as someone none other than a sacrifice, and in the end, she becomes the owner of his divine heart given to her willingly. With Zayne, she meets him as an intruder to his peace, and she becomes the one person Zayne wants to protect the most. With Xavier, she meets him as a persistent young girl with a crush and becomes someone Xavier will chase throughout the time and space. With Sylus, she meets him as the person who stole a part of his soul and becomes the one who shares half of her soul with him. In all stories, she brings out their desires and show them what love feels like.

But also, in all stories, MC's appearance is the sign of doomsday. The Lemuria is plunged into darkness after the ceremony fails. It fails because Rafayel has a desire to keep MC by his side. Zayne is punished and God's tool is useless because he is desperate to love MC and keep her safe. The people of Philos are destined to be food for the planet, because Xavier wants MC to live a peaceful life with him by her side. The ivory city is destroyed as the dragon loses his control to his desires brought out by MC.

So she becomes the scapegoat in all these stories. Because she is the easiest to blame. Blamed by Lemurians and sent to the Abyss. Blamed by Astra because her destinity is to bring chaos. Blamed by Philos because they need to make her a sacrifice. Blamed by ivory city and sent to the Abyss again.

It is always the easiest option to blame MC for rocking the boat instead of questioning the Sea God's prophecy, Astra's orders, the king's demands, and the sacred judicator's intentions.

Long story short, my point is, if you think MC is the problem, I wonder how you are even able to read this story from her perspective. Because if you choose to blame MC, you are the sacred judicator making an example out of the last dragon, you are the king of Philos sacrificing one soul to save the others, you are Amund blaming MC for Lemuria's demise, you are Astra punishing Zayne for his desire to save one person who's precious to him.

If you were in her place, you would have continued to live in Ivory City as a puppet without knowing what desire is. You would have kept quiet and followed orders and not demanded Sea God's heart in exchange for your devotion. You would not hold on to your short life and you would just accept your death without searching for a solution.

And maybe that's why MC is unrelatable on a fundamental level for so many people. If you have no desire to go against the norm, you wouldn't be able to understand and rationalize her actions.

In the end, I think all these misinterpretations of both MC and LIs are a part of the story and only strengthen the point being made. So I'm going to be a better person and not call people idiots for their very wrong opinions lol

Media literacy truly is dying bc why tf am I seeing bullshits like "mc is the problem all along" when i thought we all have talked it through and collectively agree on the fact that it was NO ONE'S (and i meant between the main characters) fault and MC is literally the BIGGEST victim compared to all of the LIs here??

[aroanthy]

i love how fraught and complicated discourse around various utena characters ‘dying’ is when anthy is literally stabbed to death eternally by a million swords imbued with human hatred. and then utena gets stabbed to death by them also. like. ‘death’ is incredibly interesting in rgu because most of the time it’s this ambiguous figurative thing that has interesting implications re: ohtori as a closed-off world one can escape. we are all trapped in our coffins. mamiya is the only named character with a grave. nemuro memorial hall functions as one all the same. ruka is implied to have died in the hospital— was he dead all along? who was the boy we saw for these two episodes? is this dead boy the same boy, or is this just another coincidence from the shadow girls, cutting like a knife? it’s heavily implied that akio and anthy murder kanae by poisoning her, adding to the previous implication that they were poisoning mr ohtori too, but there are no perceptible consequences of this. kanae’s absence is not felt. she’s fed an apple slice. what happens to the bodies? we know what happened to the 100 boys, but what about everyone else? and so on and so forth. ‘death’ is a tricky thing in utena, i think it’s constantly functioning on figurative and literal levels in very different ways for very different purposes. dios died. dios was dying. dios didn’t die. he grew up. etc etc