#well meaning compassionate people and i admire them for that

[aishangotome]

Azel Radwan: Chapter 2

Chapter 1

♡———♡

After leaving the port of Tanzanite and traveling for a while by carriage on a well-maintained road, the scenery gradually lost its greenery and water, transforming into a desert with dry sand swirling in the air.

(...It's hotter than I imagined.)

(But it's a sight I could never experience in Rhodolite, so it's exciting!)

Partway through, we switched to camels, the mode of transport in the desert, and proceeded along a pathless route.

It seemed like there was no road to me, but Basil and Kamal, our guides, seemed to see it clearly, their footsteps never faltering.

As I enjoyed my first-ever desert experience while regularly hydrating, we eventually began to see scattered remnants of what looked like ruins.

Emma: This is...

Basil: A former city. The Primal Sanctuary is just beyond this.

Emma: "Primal Sanctuary"?

Basil: The sanctuary is the temple where God resides.

Basil: Due to the deterioration of the building, it has now been relocated near the royal court...

Basil: But where we're heading now is the first residence where the "First Living God" lived.

("First" means there have been several Living Gods?)

Basil: Prince Azel likes the weathered Primal Sanctuary, which has become a ruin, and uses it as his residence.

Emma: Is it... habitable?

Basil: I'm glad you asked!

Basil: Originally, it wouldn't be, but if you see it, you'll understand Prince Azel's greatness. By the way--

Kamal threw the hair ornament she was wearing at the fast-talking Basil.

(That looked like it hurt...)

But Basil gently smiled and caught the ornament, suggesting this was a common occurrence between them.

Basil: Ah, look over there! That is the Primal Sanctuary and Prince Azel's residence.

As Basil, leading the way, said, the scenery, which had been obscured by a sandstorm, cleared up--

And what appeared was a solitary desert castle, far larger than I had imagined.

Emma: Wow...

I couldn't help but gasp in admiration at the unique appearance that exuded Tanzanite's long history.

The weathered outer walls, as old as the ruins we had seen on the way here, looked as if they were about to crumble, but on closer inspection, there were traces of repair here and there.

(God really lives here...?)

Emma: It's a building with a lot of character.

Akatsuki: It's a wreck.

Emma: Owner!

Akatsuki: It's a fact.

Basil: It must be over 1000 years old.

Emma: 1000 years!?

(Amazing... It might be a miracle that it's still standing.)

(I wonder how much history this solitary castle has witnessed.)

We dismounted our camels and stepped into the sanctuary.

The sand changed to cracked paving stones, and perhaps thanks to the shelter, the stifling air seemed to lighten.

???: Thank you for making the trip to such a remote place.

A gentle voice, filled with compassion, reached my ears. It was neither Basil, Kamal, nor the owner.

And the moment I heard that voice--

???: Why do you crave love?

I felt like I was seeing an illusion.

(...That was--)

I closed my eyes tightly once, shaking off the vision.

When I opened my eyes again to reality, I saw a figure amidst the shimmering heat haze in the distance.

Hair of a mysterious color that shimmered in the sunlight, and eyes that were clearly unusual even from afar.

Even though it was daytime, this person, who somehow reminded me of a full moon at night, came towards us with a calm gait, welcoming us with a compassionate smile that seemed to know no impurity.

Emma: Ah!

Akatsuki: What's wrong?

Emma: ...Nothing.

(I've definitely seen this person before.)

(But I can't remember when or where I met them.)

I couldn't remember, but I was sure that this person was the Living God of the land of divination and illusions, the one Basil had called "Prince Azel."

(...Beautiful eyes, unlike those of ordinary people.)

(I was skeptical until I got here, but he really does seem like a God.)

Azel: That's far enough, you two. Thank you for your hard work.

(Come to think of it, I haven't heard Basil's voice for a while.)

When I turned around, Basil's eyes behind his glasses were shining brighter than the sun, his face full of adoration and reverence.

Kamal, who was beside him, wrapped her arm around Basil's neck and dragged him away.

(...It looks like she's strangling him, is he okay?)

Azel: Excuse me. Akatsuki, did you bring what I asked for?

Akatsuki: Emma.

Emma: Y-yes.

(Right, my luggage.)

I put down my luggage, much lighter than the owner's, on the ground and took out a few books that were on top.

These were the books that the owner had entrusted to me before we left Rhodolite, saying they were for a request.

When I handed them to Prince Azel, I was enveloped in a compassionate smile.

Azel: Thank you. It must have been heavy, right?

Emma: No, it wasn't a problem at all. Thank you very much for your order.

Azel: Thank you, too. Both Akatsuki and Emma, I appreciate you fulfilling my unreasonable request.

(Huh, he knows my name.)

(...Did the owner tell him?)

Azel: Where did you go to purchase these this time?

Akatsuki: Achroite.

Azel: Ah, as expected. That country is a treasure trove of academic books.

Akatsuki: That's the 100th similar book. You never get tired of them.

Azel: I need them.

Emma: Does the Living God have a fondness for astronomy?

The books I handed over were old academic books about the moon and stars.

(I had to look through them all because they needed to be repaired, but they were so difficult I couldn't understand them at all.)

Azel: Not just me. All fortune-tellers in Tanzanite must be interested in the sky.

Azel: The foundation of divination in our country is astrology.

Emma: Astrology...?

Azel: It's what you call astrology. What's popular here is unique to Tanzanite.

Emma: Oh, I didn't know there was a unique method... As expected of the land of divination.

Azel: Right?

Prince Azel's compassionate smile seemed to distort meaningfully for a moment--just for a fleeting moment.

Azel: If you're interested, I can tell your fortune.

Azel: You've come all the way to this place. Please allow me to express my gratitude.

(Divination by the Living God is--)

*flashback*

Akatsuki: His divination is 100% accurate. Like clairvoyance, it has never been wrong, and the people are now in a frenzy.

Akatsuki: Even now, the people of Tanzanite might be witnessing the miracles brought by God.

*back to present*

(I'm hesitant to accept his kindness... but honestly, I'm curious.)

I subtly glanced at the owner, and he nodded encouragingly.

Emma: If it's not too much trouble... may I take you up on your offer?

Azel: Of course. Ah, but since I'm a God, my divination is a bit special.

Azel: I don't use a horoscope; I read the stars you possess directly.

Emma: The stars I possess...?

Azel: It means I can see things that ordinary people can't.

(I see... I can't imagine, but with those eyes, it wouldn't be strange if he could see things differently from ordinary people.)

Azel: It will be a simple divination, but what do you want to know?

Emma: In that case, I want to know about my love life.

Azel: ...Well, I thought you'd say that.

(Huh, for a moment, it seemed like his face twitched... Was it my imagination?)

As if to expose something within me, his mystical eyes, holding the starry sky, peered into mine.

Azel: Well...

Azel: I recommend that you give up on love altogether.

Emma: Is it that bad!?

Azel: Yes, it is. It seems you have no luck with men. Poor you.

Azel: I see a future where you'll be taken in by a bad man, have your money swindled, and be worked like a slave.

(The Living God's divination is 100% accurate... Ugh...)

Azel: But in the end, divination is just divination.

Azel: No matter what I, a God, say, it's you who will ultimately build your future.

(So, both good and bad outcomes depend on my actions.)

Emma: Thank you. I'll keep that in mind.

Azel: Hehe...

Azel: --...You're such an easy mark.

(...Huh? His voice was so quiet I couldn't quite hear him...)

Prince Azel, with a compassionate smile once again, shifted his gaze from me to the owner.

Azel: You will be staying in Tanzanite for a while, won't you?

Akatsuki: Yes. I'd like to get a merchant permit this time as well.

Azel: I've already made arrangements. I've had a guest room prepared at the royal court, so please make yourselves at home.

(A guest room... at the royal court!?)

Akatsuki: Thank you for your hospitality as always.

(And this happens every time!?)

Azel: No, no, it's nothing.

(...I think it's a big deal.)

Azel: You are an indispensable and excellent book merchant to me...

Prince Azel's mystical eyes, which seemed to hold the starry sky, reflected my image.

Azel: I'm sure there will be more opportunities for me to ask Emma for help as well.

Azel: I look forward to working with you both for many years to come.

With the God's watchful eye upon us, we left the temple and stepped onto the sand, heading towards the city visible in the distance.

We passed through the bustling city, fitting for a tourist destination...

And arrived at the magnificent royal court, different from Rhodolite's...

What awaited us was a feast of desert delicacies.

In the spacious dance hall, where the giant moon felt close, many people besides us were gathered.

They seemed to be Tanzanite's nobles, and it looked like a party.

On the stage set up in the center, dancers were performing, and I couldn't help but be captivated by their beauty.

(In Rhodolite, balls are the mainstream...)

(In Tanzanite, it seems like inviting dancers and enjoying them together is the mainstream.)

As I was admiring the scene, a hand reached out from behind and lightly tapped my shoulder.

Clavis: To think you would also come to the royal court? What a stroke of luck.

Luke: What luck? Please don't cause any trouble.

Luke: Or rather, you can cause trouble, but don't involve me and Emma.

Emma: Hehe, as expected... I had a feeling I'd see Prince Clavis and Prince Luke here.

(Even in a foreign castle, these two haven't changed at all.)

A waitress dressed in a beautiful dancer's costume handed us drinks.

It was a refreshingly fruity alcoholic beverage, unexpected in the desert.

The same drink was served to Clavis and Luke, who were state guests, with no difference in treatment from us.

(The fact that we, mere merchants, are treated the same as royalty means...)

(That the residence permit issued by the Living God is highly valued, right?)

(That's how high the God's position is in this country.)

Clavis: Speaking of which, Emma, you met the Living God, right? What was your first impression?

Clavis, who casually pushed his fruit juice onto Luke, picked up a nearby container of water.

(It's almost like intuition, but--)

Emma: He was more compassionate and kind-hearted than I imagined.

Clavis, who had taken a sip of water, let out a small chuckle.

Clavis: ...Pfft... Haha, I see, I see. You're the type of woman who falls for a swindler, aren't you?

Emma: A swindler?

Clavis: Oh, excuse me. But that's surprising. You're the current "Belle" and are good at seeing through people's true nature, aren't you?

Clavis: ...No, that's not right. Or rather, is that impression precisely because you "saw through" him?

Clavis: Hmm, how very interesting. I wonder if it's me or you who's seeing an illusion.

(From the way Clavis is talking, it seems like there might be another side to the compassionate and gentle God?)

???: Prince Clavis, Prince Luke, I hate to interrupt.

The one who broke into our conversation with a friendly voice was a silver-haired man dressed in lavish attire.

Clavis: Enis. Allow me to express my gratitude once again for preparing such a wonderful banquet.

Enis: It's only natural to entertain guests from another country, wouldn't you agree?

Enis: More importantly, the woman next to Akatsuki is a new face...

I hurriedly pulled out the knowledge I had crammed into my head when I was Belle and expressed my greetings.

Clavis: This is Emma. She's a book merchant now, but she was once the Belle of Rhodolite.

Enis: Oh... So that means she's the woman with the most beautiful heart in Rhodolite?

Clavis: Haha, you're well-informed, aren't you?

Enis: I happen to be fond of history books from various countries.

The noble and seemingly affable man extended his hand to me, a merchant, without changing his demeanor.

What was conveyed through his handshake was his good nature.

Enis: I'm the King of Tanzanite, but please feel free to treat me casually. I don't like formality.

(His Majesty the King... This is him!?)

(He's young, though not as young as the newly crowned king of Rhodolite.)

Enis: You are guests of the Living God. If you have any problems, don't hesitate to tell me.

Emma: Thank you very much. I appreciate your kindness.

When I accepted his words with a smile, without showing surprise, Enis-sama widened his eyes slightly.

Enis: I've heard that Belle is chosen from among the daughters of commoners, but you carry yourself with such dignity that I can't believe it.

Enis: You must have worked hard. Please enjoy your time in Tanzanite to the fullest.

Perhaps to avoid interrupting our conversation, the King quickly left after leaving those kind words.

Emma: ...His Majesty the King seems like a kind person too.

Luke: The more they seem like that, the more sinful they are, so be careful, Emma.

Clavis: I hear he has ten wives.

Emma: T-ten!?

Clavis: I hear some of his wives are from foreign countries.

Luke: In other words...

Clavis and Luke each placed a hand on my shoulder.

Clavis: It's time for the bodyguards to step in, right?

Luke: I'll punch anyone who tries to lay a hand on you in Rio's place.

Akatsuki: I'll kill them before that.

Emma: You're all overthinking it!?

(Honestly, it's not that unusual for the King to have multiple wives...)

Suddenly, I remembered the solitary desert castle.

That castle where there was no sign of anyone but the Living God.

(Does God... not love anyone?)

*That night, in her dreams*

(...Huh?)

(This place again...)

Azel: Good evening. I wanted to see you.

.

.

.

Chapter 3

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[himalayaan-flowers]

mental health experts are not a thing

[ancientgoddessofegypt]

Astro Notes : Short N Sweet <3 Neptune's Revenge

Neptune 1st House - Popular energy. Very well known for their beautiful, majestic energy. Could have a lot of haters but admirers at the same time. Energetically sensitive to alot of others emotions. Sometimes, it can be a lil confusing holding so much power. Because their energy can be mixed up with someone elses if they don't know how to tell the difference. They usually have a strong sense of self, its just other peoples opinions can get in away of that if they arent careful.

Neptune 2nd House - Could use some help on the financial train. They're organic to the way they use their money. I mean, they could be super horrendous spender, spending each and every dime on any and everything. While still some how always having more in their wallet. Or they could be pretty good at saving and are a little bit of a cheapskate.

Neptune 3rd House - Whimsical voices. Poetic writers. Creative thinkers. Very talented when it comes to the hands as well. Could be excellent drawers & painters. Neptune in the 3rd has an ability to travel to very interesting places that aren't too far at home. They may go on lil adventures here and there. But its always a treat. Its kinda strange how well they can be at finding good eats as well with all the travel they do. Could work abroad or go to college somewhere out of their comfort zone a lil.

Neptune 4th House - Has a lot of secrets when it comes to the inner child. Very free, sweet loving children. Can open a door to different realms like we're in Narnia or something. Angelic creatures who enjoy alone time near their favorite place. If they ever share that special place with you consider yourself lucky. They normally keep the things they cherish hidden for a long time.

Neptune in the 5th House - Artists who seek deep into the art and become it. Very creative & a one of a kind with the way they carry the emotion in what it is they do. Can have you thinking hard on what it is they are trying to convey, they are a master at making complexities more harder to figure out. Just be there in the audience and watch the show. You'll never leave the same again.

Neptune in the 6th House - Fun loving pet owners, they go hard for the planet and the creatures that come from it. Real advocates for change and don't take too kindly to insensitive people. Could need to sharpen their boundaries a little more with people. Also, are incredible writers and should tap into this side a bit more. You might end up surprised with what talents you have that could make you some money, or could be a really cool job.

Neptune in the 7th House - Romance is the thing that just keeps on given to these individuals. May need to put the rose colored glasses down. that man might not be for you, love. Don't forget to put more time into your own needs versus the needs of someone else. Your compassionate energy may run dry if you're not using that waterfall of emotion for yourself. People are drawn to 7th house neptunes alot more than you think. They are capable of seeing thru the veil, you just don't notice.

Neptune in the 8th House - Psychologically understands the reasons on why the universe is the way that it is and why the people in it behave the way that we do. Could be honest about a lot of things, dishonest about what they know. The world doesn't need to know everything, which is why the divine gifted them with certain antidotes. Only they can use this so bring healing to a certain nation (or individual) but not everyone can find this secret the way they can. This is normally given to them by spirit guides, ancestors, or thru drreams.

Neptune in the 9th - Impracticality is almost their birth right. They see things in a way that doesnt make sense at all but to them it means something. What I mean is that these people see the world bigger than what they people tell them. They could have big drams and not understand why they have them, but God put them their for a reason. So you can figure them out. You may want to travel and study abroad, or just move somewhere different and don't know how. Thats where all the magic happens, finding out and taking the risk. The sagittarian way.

Neptune in the 10th - Majestic auras. The highlight of the moment. The star. The siren. The energy healer. Do I keep going? Very special creatures who touched this earth to make their dreams come true, even if they have to figure it out themselves. Empathetic to the people around them and are big on helping out with anything whenever they can. The Queens & Kings of the law of attraction. Can attract what they want if they just believe it in it more.

Neptune in the 11th House - Community leaders. Ancients who know they way to what the true reality is meant to be like. Literally can change the world with the way they move, think, and go around helping others. Sweet and lovely people to be around. Needs healing in their own friend groups. Can be a little out there, but thats why people love them.

Neptune in the 12th House - Practical minds in a world that tells them their crazy. No they arent crazy, they just have multiple psychic gifts. And these gifts have a way in showing them things people aren't usually equipped with handling. They need more time alone and in nature to keep themselves grounded. Other wise, they will go crazy from the world telling them that their crazy... When really they know a little more than what they led on. The imagination is a fun place, but also a place where the most hidden becomes entirely to open. Seers of the daylight & the night.

[ozzgin]

I love your work! you have such a fun take on yandere's and I would love to see what kind of yandere hcs you could cook up for a host-club / paid to go on dates with you yandere ❤️ double points if you can make it so that the reader is never really one to cross a line or think the yandere really likes them...

If you don't want to do this prompt tho I completely understand ❤️

The idea makes me a little nostalgic as it gives me Ouran vibes. Also reminded me I've never played 'Men of Yoshiwara' past the prologue, which also has male courtesans ready to service you. In any case, it's definitely something I can expand on! :)

Yandere! Host x Reader

You've never considered yourself to be the type frequenting host clubs. Yet the loneliness is becoming noticeable and perhaps it's your lack of experience keeping you out of the dating scene. Mingling with paid professionals could prepare you for a future boyfriend. Except your assigned host has other plans in mind for you.

Content: gender neutral reader, inexperienced reader, obsessive behavior, manipulation

Ah, you definitely don't belong here. He can tell within seconds and he hasn't even reached the table yet. You're nervously readjusting the sleeves of your shirt - do you usually not wear such outfits? - and merely glance around the room for a brief moment before casting your eyes back down in sheepish modesty. Well, not necessarily a sight of unpreceded novelty. Many people are intrigued by the idea of a host club, so even just idle curiosity is enough incentive for one to end up among the charismatic crowd of paid affections. Today it's you who has stumbled into the hungry mouth of the wolf, and he happens to be the one to entertain you away from whatever unpleasantries are currently consuming you.

He gently stretches his slender fingers across your shoulder, a feathery touch light enough as to not startle you. You look up and acknowledge his presence, ready to stand up for introductions. His hold on you is firm, letting you know there is no need to leave the comfort of your sofa. "Now then, this isn't a job interview. You don't need to be so formal." He explains with a chuckle. You nod. Embarrassingly enough, your eyes are glued to his face for longer than what you'd consider polite admiration. A waste of good looks is your immediate thought. Surely someone as stunning as him could've worked as a model or actor. You suspect he isn't as enthusiastic to meet you as his voice leads one to believe, so the ability to pretend certainly isn't missing.

One peek at the table next to you, and the answer quickly presents itself. An older woman is inspecting the menu, surrounded by multiple bottles of champagne whose name even you recognize. You doubt the average acting career could provide this amount of luxury. The corners of your lips curl slightly upwards in a pitiful self awareness. Sadly for this guy, you're not a big spender. Whether he, too, is aware of this disappointing fact is impossible to tell. His handsome features remain cheerfully relaxed. "Tell me about yourself. What brings a darling like you here?" He inquires graciously, resting his chin on the back of his hands as he settles before you with an intent gaze.

You narrate your hardship: whether because of your looks or your awkwardness, something impedes you from having acquired a partner; and so the idea of gaining experience through less orthodox means came to fruition. Your host listens carefully, refilling your glass every now and then with a compassionate frown, lips parted in unspoken sympathy. Of course, he understands. Naturally. Once you're finished, he straightens himself in newfound determination: worry not, he will be your coach in love.

Thus begins the unusual partnership. You hadn't expected the man to readily agree to such a ridiculous request. A handful of visits have made it clear to you he's in high demand, most likely one of the top earners. Why would he waste his precious (and otherwise profitable) time with a humble customer like you? Maybe it's bad form to refuse lower paid offers too often, so he's keeping you for balance. You'll never know. His professionalism betrays no hint of annoyance.

You cannot help but marvel at his masterful lying. It becomes quite clear to you why so many people fall helplessly in love with paid hosts. Everything is executed with the utmost care for detail. The loving caress of the cheek he occasionally initiates, seemingly unprompted. The long, ardent stares into your eyes, as you must practice your eye contact. His hot lips brushing against your fingers while he spoils you with diminutives and sickly sweet words of appreciation.

You frequently have to remind yourself that everything is dictated by a contract. A code of conduct meant to be replicated for you and all other clients coming afterwards. How many other poor souls fawn over this alluring devil? You wouldn't want to burden him with an additional customer who forgets boundaries. You know your place too well.

Admirable manners. Frustratingly so. He wishes you'd just give in already and drop the shy act around him. You've caught his interest from the moment he spotted you in that cluttered, crowded room reeking of overpriced alcohol and solitude. Everything about you signaled blindingly clear: you're someone others can easily take advantage of. To think you would've landed right in his hands, to be molded as he pleases. The little sob story about being inexperienced with men, your clumsy attempts to follow along his flirts. Oh, you're just begging to be defiled. Again, and again and again, until there's nothing left of you. Then he'd caringly patch you back together and start anew. His very own corner of innocence.

The indecent daydreams are cut short when you proudly announce, during one of your dates, that you finally feel confident enough to pursue a genuine partner. You have booked a nice hotel room for this occasion; One last gesture of grandeur to show your gratitude for all the advice and love (even though it wasn't genuine). He's sitting on the edge of the plush mattress, dumbfounded, fiddling with the thick, ornate border of the bed runner. Huh? What the hell are you talking about? He's spent all this time getting to know you. What gets you flustered and bothered, what makes you excited, sad, anxious, angry, bored. He taught you how to come out of your shell. Why, so you can go ahead and waste yourself on some fucking idiot?

"My, aren't you eager. You haven't even had your first kiss." He says with a cheeky smile. "I think I can manage-" you want to say, but he quickly interrupts with a curt: "No one likes an amateur kisser". You're immediately silenced. His voice sounds cold, with a hint of anger in it. "I'm sorry, darling love, it's true." He resumes in an entirely different tonality, dragging his words with an eerie kindness attached to them. He tuts a little, turning towards you and patting his knees. There, there, don't look so deflated. If a simple observation like his hurt you this much, how would you handle the much meaner, downright heartless world out there?

Such is reality. Men are cruel and you had the bad luck to be born with a gentle heart. He delicately guides you to sit in his lap, cupping your burning face between his large hands. He knows this expression too well - you're humiliated. And thus, can he truly allow anyone else out there to see you so vulnerable like this? No, this kind of intimacy is reserved for him. You must understand. He has disciplined you to his liking, and simultaneously learned all the nooks and crannies of your being. It's too late to go back to a simple host and client relationship.

"Why don't you practice with me first, love?" He breaks the silence, placing his lips against your forehead in encouragement. You feel a sudden pressure faintly throbbing underneath you. "T-the kiss?" You ask hesitantly, trying to ignore the sensation and squirming in his tightening hold.

"Everything."

[chiisana-sukima]

hi so what qualities do you think dean admires about sam and vice versa would like to know your thoughts

Love your meta btw as a new spn fan

Hi Nonny, tysm for the ask!

I haven't thought a ton about this question prior to now, so I'm interested in other people's opinions too if they want to add them on reblog. But it seems to me that the 'what does Dean admire about Sam' half of the question is pretty easily answered, because Dean isn't shy with his praise of Sam in canon.

He's also not shy with his criticism, of course, and I think this is because some of the things he admires most about Sam are the same things that are dangerous to him personally. My favorite recap is in the finale:

And there's this from 15.11:

Dean says similar things in other episodes, going way back to 1.11, which the finale speech is practically a word for word recap of:

I think Dean legitimately believes all this; that Sam is better than him in practically every way-- smarter, more compassionate, more optimistic, possessed of a better moral compass (usually), more skilled in a variety of ways, etc. And especially that Sam is healthier than him; more of a complete, autonomous human being who would be fully able to live a "normal" life if circumstances were right, whereas he, Dean, would not be. By "you're stronger than me" (which he also tells Sam before he goes to Hell in s3) he means "capable of independence".

I have decidedly ambivalent feelings about the "Dean is Sam's Parent" reading of spn, but I do think this is a very parental type of admiration; both because of the 'I'm proud' piece and because 'I raised you to be able to outlive me' is maybe a parent's primary responsibility second only to unconditional love. And I think it's realistic and sympathetic that Dean admires these traits in Sam while simultaneously fighting tooth and nail to undermine Sam ever actually becoming fully independent as long as Dean's alive (and until the finale, even afterwards). "You're better than me; don't leave me" is honestly extremely relatable.

R.e. the 'what does Sam admire in Dean' part of the question, I think that's more complicated to explain, and I'm especially interested in what other fans think about this part. I think obviously if someone asked Sam what he admires in Dean, he'd be able to run off a list of traits. And he does sometimes mention traits he finds admirable in Dean, like in 8.14 where he says "You're not a grunt, Dean. You're a genius" and says Dean is a better hunter than either himself or their father.

But for the core of what I think Sam feels about Dean that's in the same, idk, synonym group ig, as 'admiration', I don't think 'admires' really covers it very well. It's almost more like worships. He thinks, quite simply, that Dean is good. And since he thinks that he, Sam, is fundamentally not good, he sees Dean as the final arbiter of, well, everything. Sam thinks Sam could never go on a quest like Galahad, but although it's never specifically mentioned, I think its pretty clear he believes Dean could.

I think Sam feels about Dean the way I think deeply religious people--not the kind that mouth platitudes but the kind that have really struggled with and thought long and hard about their faith--feel about God. He knows Dean makes mistakes, he knows Dean is deeply fucked up in many ways, he yells at and argues with Dean and goes behind Dean's back and lies to him and etc, all because he does truly understand that Dean's decisions are, on a practical level, sometimes honestly pretty messed up. But he also has an unshakable faith that where he, Sam, might make bad choices because he's bad, Dean will struggle but ultimately always eventually choose correctly, even if one of the steps along the way is chopping Sam's head off with Death's scythe. Because Dean is good. Sam fans (myself included) will look back on the panic room and think "wow Dean sure was living up to the family-is-hell premise on that one", but Sam will look back on it and think "he saved me".

[kittyandco]

something i've been thinking about for the last few... forever.

shout out to the people who identify so strongly with, and/or find the most comfort in, the worst character(s) of any media that you're into. some of us find connection and similarities with the most terrible figures that canon has to offer. often, you're expected to identify most strongly with the good guy, or aspire to be like them (and not to say you don't, because i do sometimes). but that often doesn't happen for me, and i see more of myself in the evil impacting them.

not because i think i'm a bad person, and not because i aspire to be a flamboyant supervillain, but i often understand their feelings, their mindset, i understand how they got there, because i often went through a lot of the same things they did, even if only emotionally. it often goes beyond sheer appreciation for me (though i often find them more interesting from a narrative sense). and if i were in their world, i might become like them if things were even slightly different. if i didn't try to unlearn the fact that destruction is the only way to get what you want. catharsis is a powerful motivator.

i think it's important to embrace the "they're just like me" perspective when it comes to characters who aren't always "morally sound," and i do unequivocally include the "unsympathetic" ones. we're always going to find fictional characters we admire so long as art keeps being made, and sometimes admiration moves into "i identify with this character because of our background/personality/etc.", and sometimes these characters are the ones you're supposed to hate and root against... intentionally or not, many antagonists are very relatable (though often in unspoken ways).

none of this is to say that your taste in favorite characters means anything about you as a person, because it doesn't. how you treat others says all it needs to say about you as a person. i've seen this first-hand: people being surprised that i am friendly and compassionate (i try my best!) simply because i have a deep love for fictional guys who commit atrocities. yes, my worldly experiences, and the way i view them, as well as my fantastic taste draws me to fictional bad guys, but at the end of the day, i strive to be the best i can be every day. i aim to exude the kindness that i didn't always get when i practically begged for it. on the other hand, you could like the most sugary sweet, do-good fictional characters ever created (and good for you! no shame here!) and still be a nightmare to those around you.

i don't like the idea that you CANNOT like these characters, or identify with them, without condoning some sort of evil or being a bad person. they are people (or robots, or monsters, or whatever they are) who did bad things, whatever their reasons -- here's no inherence about it, and i think that belief has helped me in trying to understand them. i try to practice this with everyone i encounter. and along the way, i actually find that we aren't so different

[literatureloverx]

BSD MEN x DISNEY PRINCESSES

I'm not sure how many people were aware of it, but there was a trend on TikTok (I believe it was last year) where someone paired JJK characters with Disney princesses.

It got me thinking about pairing Disney princesses with BSD characters because…why not?

This is nothing serious, so please enjoy! ❤️

Fyodor Dostoevsky

Possible pairings: Aurora, Cinderella (live action), Belle.

Aurora (Sleeping Beauty 1959): She is introverted, dreamy, elegant, and beautiful. She embodies traditional femininity and dreams of true love. There's a serene and peaceful spirit within her that Fyodor would greatly appreciate.

Cinderella (live action, 2015): She is very polite, values kindness above all else, and sees the good in everyone. Her ability to forgive almost makes her appear ethereal and otherworldly. She is graceful, beautiful, intellectually stimulating, and well-educated.

Belle (Beauty and the Beast 1991): She is the most beautiful girl in her town, yet possesses an intellectual and romantic mind. Though fairly introverted, she can be outgoing in certain circumstances. Fyodor would find much common ground with her, bonding over their love for reading and discussing various topics.

Dazai Osamu

Possible pairings: Cinderella (live action), Belle, Elsa.

Cinderella (live action, 2015): She is compassionate, valuing kindness and generosity above all else. She would understand Dazai's struggles and help him become the best version of himself.

Belle (Beauty and the Beast 1991): Belle is intellectually stimulating for Dazai as well. She is able to fall for a beast because he shows that he can improve and has a good heart deep inside, which eventually comes to the surface. Once Dazai trusts her with his fragile heart, their bond would be unbreakable.

Elsa (Frozen 2013): She is calm, collected, and deeply values her close relationships. Dazai would help her become less stressed and anxious, while she could handle his daily antics. However, this relationship could be challenging because both of them are guarded around strangers.

Nakahara Chuuya

Possible pairings: Jasmin, Tiana, Mulan, Cinderella.

Jasmin (Aladdin 1992): Jasmine is sassy, knows what she wants, and is very intelligent. She is confident and elegant, embodying femininity in a strong and assertive way. Chuuya would admire her.

Tiana (The Princess and the Frog 2009): Tiana is hardworking and confident. Her struggles and the effort she puts into achieving her singular dream make her very human. She is inspirational and loving.

Mulan (Mulan 1998): Mulan makes sacrifices for her family. She is rational and not easily frightened, even when faced with significant challenges. Her struggles are relatable, and her character arc is both majestic and realistic. Chuuya would be very proud to call such a woman his.

Cinderella (Cinderella 1950): Cinderella is also hardworking, but in a more laid-back and dreamy way. She dreams of true love, happiness, and peace. She is more of a traditional woman, but by no means lacks character.

Nikolai Gogol

Possible pairings: Rapunzel, Ariel, Anna, Merida.

Rapunzel (Tangled 2010): Rapunzel is very bubbly and curious. She has many ideas and makes connections in a dreamy yet extroverted manner. She is hungry for knowledge about the world she doesn't know and longs to explore. Such a person with deep underlying passions would intrigue Nikolai.

Ariel (The little Mermaid 1989): Ariel is also eager to explore a world she's unfamiliar with. She yearns for personal freedom and the ability to make her own choices in life. She can be considered impulsive, feeling and living deeply, rashly, and quickly. She would be able to keep up with Nikolai's temperament. She is loving and entertaining.

Anna (Frozen 2013): Anna longs for connection with the outside world and wants to socialize as much as possible. Her perspective on life is almost childishly cute. She is entertaining and lovable, and Nikolai would appreciate her enthusiasm.

Merida (Brave 2013): Merida is brave, daring, and doesn't let anything deter her from following her own path. She knows she can surpass any expectations placed on her, and she courageously pursues her own way. This is a quality Nikolai would adore.

[nesquiiksstuff]

✎ ❝general relationship headcanons!❞

syzoth (feat. ashrah), baraka, raiden

love languages

fluff

thouple (syzoth + ashrah + reader)

thank you guys for so much support! im just going this hc thingy while I think up this for the raiden story (which hopefully won’t take too long). please enjoy!! ᰔ

ᰔ syzoth :: quality time and gift giving

he is not uncomfortable to talk about his passed family, honestly syzoth would enjoy if his partner was interested in that part of his life. whether it’s recommending visiting their grave site, or sharing his grief—is something that he greatly appreciates.

the reason ashrah and syzoth work so well is because they’re both trying to right their sins, having you be there and being supportive means the absolute world. he shows you that through small thoughtful gifts (mostly trinkets that he finds at markets or on his walks).

idk if anyone is actually interested in a thouple with them…but hear me out 🤲. I genuinely think ashrah and syzoth would be so well rounded and loving. date nights either in Shaolin’s gardens or mileena’s palace (probably in the library), always romantic with stereotypical candle light and a nice dinner. syzoth thinks it’s important to make it special as possible since there’s only a few times when you’re all together.

. . .

ᰔ baraka: acts of service, words of affirmation, physical touch

what baraka truly needs is another leader. there is so much responsibility placed on his shoulders with the colony—but of course he would never truly ask you to help, he’s stubborn and well…has a guilty conscience. you would need to insert yourself without needing to be prompted. assertiveness and responsibility is something he finds extremely attractive, as well as being compassionate, gods knows that it’s also something he needs.

physical contact is foreign to him, after years of being alone once his family passed and being ill. he adores it when you bring some type of normalcy to touching him, though he’s the first to pull away. baraka knows the risk he puts you in everyday, if he can limit the chances of tarkat spreading to you—while still indulging this relationship, he will.

like asking for extra leadership—he wouldn’t pursue you. baraka wouldn’t ever expect another chance of love, in all honesty he would think that his pining is one sided. Though once you’ve established a relationship with him, he’s open with you. private moments with you are filled with him thanking you for the work you put in the colony, and how you treat not only him but others. even though he’s no poet, he makes sure you know he cherishes you.

. . .

ᰔ raiden: words of affirmation and quality time

usually he pursues people that he highly respects. you don’t have to do something exceptional, but having passion for your own beliefs is what he values in a person and especially in a partner. also it would be admirable if you were interested in his own goals and aspirations, after all raiden’s prospective has changed much once the events in outworld has passed.

raiden is humble…but he likes showing off to you—not exactly out of place of smugness but he enjoys when you are impressed at his talents. he smiles so brightly whenever you compliment him on his achievements or on his hard work in general. it’s probably one of his top motivation besides him genuinely enjoy what he’s doing.

if you two ever got the chance to go back to fengjian his first goal would to introduce you to his family, he has to be a mama’s boy. he cares deeply for his family and he wants you to feel included in that circle. besides visiting them, he’s taking you to see the sites and old hang out spots. leading you along by holding your hand keeping you close (I love him he’s so sweet ugh). it means everything that you’re willing to listen to his childhood stories and just with him in general to visit his hometown.

sadly i’m trying to keep his to minimum since my own little headcanons for him should show up in the story i’m writing for him :]

thank you for reading!

[loveemagicpeace]

💘Synastry & Interests💘

🩵I personally think that planets in the 4th and 12th house give nostalgia. When you have this connection with someone, you always feel something related to the past. For example: a classmate from high school and because you have the 12th house with him, he reminds you of when you were a teenager. These people remind you of your memories. But you can also feel like you know them from before (even if you don't). Moon in 4th house- you can feel comfortable around this person.

🪽Having 9th house with someone means that you can have long journeys with them, that you can learn a lot from this person. This person can change your perspective or give you meaning in your life. These people can also become your teachers or people who give you the will to live. It is very beautiful synastry.

🌞Sun in synastry is very importnat because shows where you and the person are inspired, where you find joy in each other. Where they find common motivation and romance at the same time. For ex.: Sun in 9th house- will you travel a lot or will you see this person as someone who gives you inspiration for life, maybe gives you optimism in life. Sun in 4th house- maybe this person will give you the will to your home or family. Or it will give you the feeling that home is something positive. You will be able to decorate the home together or spend time with your family or you will get along very well with his family.

⭐️1st house in synastry represents how the person looks at you and how they see you in your personality. How they like your appearance and what kind of energy you give to a person. Venus in 1st house- the person will give you a lot of compliments and admire you a lot. You will admire the beauty of this person. Neptune in 1st house- the person will find you dreamy, mystical and compassionate. Many times you can be seen as a person who is mysteriously beautiful. The person may be thinking a lot or daydreaming about you.

🎸2nd house in synastry-many times it includes how you and the person view material things, money. At the same time, how they enjoy food and music together... How much they appreciate each other. Moon in this house shows that you can feel stability, security towards this person. You feel that you can trust this person. When a person hurts you emotionally, they can make up for it with gifts. Mercury in this house- you and the person can talk a lot about money or have more stable / practical conversations. At the same time, the person may value your opinion. Appreciate your words. Saturn in this house- Partner teaches us what is really valuable, but it is not money. Pragmatic approach becomes important when it comes to nutrition. Partner can help us sort out financial situation and understand our personal value.

🎨5th house in synastry can create a fun and childlike atmosphere. It shows how you have fun with the person, in what way. Where they find common hobbies and how they keep their romance alive. Venus in this house can create childish energy or that your relationship is dramatic sometimes. You appreciate how fun a person is. You love their energy and how it is cartmatic. You can express a lot of pride to this person. Mars in this house creates a hot and passionate romance. You and the person have a strong energy and have fun together. Your energy is always focused on fiery things. But it can also create a temporary romance because maybe both of you can react or see things too childishly. You can see a person's energy as maybe childish or not serious. This house definitely shows teenage energy. Which means that this person can remind you a little of your childhood, or you can do things together that you did in your childhood.

🦋Jupiter in 5th house synastry is great. Because it keeps romance always alive, fun, optimistic and easy. But it also brings a lot of luck in this area. Because Jupiter shows how happy you are with the person, in what way the person makes you happy. Jupiter in 1st house- With your existence and the energy you have, you make a person happy. This person makes you happy and gives you the feeling that you can always be happy when you are with them. Jupiter in 7th house- the person brings you a lot of luck in your relationships with others or shows you what real people are. You feel happy with this person. Jupiter in 8th house- Intimate relationships are always good. In this area, a person can make you very happy and can also help you with money or debts.

🩷7th house in synastry represents how you and your partner imagine a long-term relationship, what the relationship looks like, how you maintain the relationship. How do you work in a relationship and what do you like about a relationship with this person by. Pluto in 7th house synastry- you can see the relationship with this person as deep, unique, ride or die, strong and as private. You may feel like you want to keep the relationship you have with this person to yourself. Sometimes you want to keep the relationship with this person a secret. Both of them can have many secrets. Saturn in this house- you can see the person as stable or the relationship with that person. You want a committed relationship with this person. But it may also seem to you that this relationship is destined or that you and the person are destined for each other. Mars in this house- you feel like this relationship gives you a lot of energy and passion. You may also feel like you are obsessed with this person or that you want to have this person all to yourself. You may feel like you want this person abnormally.

💘8th house mercury in synastry- you can trust a person with a lot of your secrets and dark things. Maybe you can feel like you can talk to the person about more in-depth topics. Everything you talk about can be more intense and in-depth. You can see the person as intense or also mysterious. You might also be interested in a lot about this person. This could also mean that you talk to people about this person or watch them without the person knowing. Venus in 8th house-You are sexually attracted to a person, and many times you can see love with this person as deeper and more passionate. Love with this person can mean to you like a soul connection. You can be obsessed with this person. I think there can be love that lasts forever. Cuz you love them in a deeper way maybe in a way that you never loved anyone before.

♟️11th house in synastry shows what dreams you have with this person or what connects you. What are your interests and circle of friends. What is your friendship like. Let's say Neptune in this house can mean that your dreams are this person or that you want to make many dreams come true with them. Uranus in this house can mean that you and the person have many different or unusual dreams. Maybe you see this person's circle of friends as strange or different from others. It is often the case that we find ourselves in some type of shared enterprise or adventure. You can also meet this person unexpectedly.

💜10th house synastry shows something that have to happen, the mission you have with this person, something that is serious and stable, maybe more public and a career. Moon in this house can mean that you have stable and deep feelings for this person. Also means that you and your partner have a powerful bond that connects you. It is the desire to create something that will outlast one’s lifetime. You can help this person a lot in their career. It can indicate a shared family background or an immediate family connection between the partners. Anything that is conected to saturn in synastry create long term relationship.

-Rebekah⭐️💘🦋

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Sorry to bother you i really want to hear your mipha/miphlink thoughts as a mipha fan x)

Favourite mipha/miphlink headcanon? OR favourite thing to see in a mipha/miphlink fic? :> feel free to ignore this if you don't have any answers lol

Not bothering me at all! :)

Let’s see, idk if I have a favorite so here are some headcanons I have for Mipha:

She’s an enneagram type 2 with a 1 wing. In English, that means she’s a caregiver with a strong sense of justice and doing the right thing, making her a compassionate and kindhearted protector. But she can go too far with this, basing her own worth on her ability to care for others, pushing her own needs aside. She wants to help everyone, and what good is she if she can’t?

Mipha has been crown princess of the Zora and admired by her people for the majority of her life. She’s very aware that she’s constantly being watched, and between that self awareness and being a caregiver to others, hardly anyone knows what she’s actually like when she’s at ease (the Bazz Brigade is the exception)

Mipha’s shyness around Link has nothing to do with not knowing how to act when under his scrutiny—they’ve been friends since they were kids. Instead it’s based upon a fear of altering or destroying their relationship if he doesn’t harbor the same affections for her. (And a smidge of awkwardness because why is she feeling this way around him)

Mipha’s always wanted to be a mother. Nurturing is a natural part of her personality. As she and Link actually develop a romantic relationship, she struggles with reconciling the fact that she probably will never have kids of her own, but she and Link talk about adopting (at the time they don’t know they can actually have kids together)

Mipha is very curious about the world, but her adventurous side is dependent entirely upon who she is with. When with someone more timid than her, she pushes them to explore with her and open up to everything. When with someone far more reckless, she’s usually the voice of caution. The exception to this rule is Link: she knows him well enough, knows his capabilities, and loves going on adventures with him.

Her favorite color is blue, particularly the shade that appears when the luminous stones reflect in Link’s eyes

While Mipha is more than willing to fight, she thinks she’s the weakest of the champions. Logically, that means she’s the most likely to die. The best way she can cope with this is to prepare those around her for her death in the subtlest way possible so as not to alarm anyone. She doesn’t really expect to survive the Calamity, but she’s trying to find peace with that. She just hopes she’s wrong, but she has to prepare herself mentally.

This thought process leads to her being conflicted about admitting her feelings to Link. If she dies, she doesn’t want to break his heart if he says yes (which she doesn’t dare to hope). If he says no she’ll feel all the lonelier during her final months. But if neither is the case, she… perhaps it’s selfish, she supposes, but she wants to be loved, and she wants him to know how she feels. Eventually this last part wins out. (At least in the botw timeline - I feel like Link probably would admit his feelings first in AoC after Mipha is almost killed since it seems less time passes between them before the calamity in this version)

Mipha is very proud of her ability to heal and it’s the thing that makes her happiest.

Mipha is simultaneously the mother and the baby of the champions. She’ll try to nurture and help everyone, and literally everyone will do everything they can to take care of her in return.

She isn’t used to exploring her own emotions and is therefore very private about them. Hence her freaking out over the thought of anybody reading her diary.

As for what I like to see in Mipha/Miphlink stories… admittedly I haven’t read too many, but anything that gives Mipha some depth makes me happy. She’s very sweet in the game, and you can kind of glean more from her based on her behavior and actions, but she is very much… idk, she’s not written poorly, but I don’t know how to describe it. She’s almost written too perfect? Not because she’s without flaws, she’s just seen from the nostalgia of others and rarely has a lot of screen time in memories, so it makes her a little less relatable sometimes. But there’s a lot you can glean from context and the story, so I do like her character. I just want to see her with depth! Lots of fanfics just make her the quiet, demure, sweet little champion and that’s it.

[the-monkey-ruler]

According to your opinion, what do you think would be SWK's best written romance or what would they be as for the adaptations? You know, not only does the romance appear and that's it, but does it develop or at least seem good to you?

Not to say there are bad romances, but I just wanted to ask.

Honestly, it depends on what you think is romantic.

There is a reason that the Chinese Odyssey is such a cult classic and it's not because they get together at the end, but rather because it explores the idea of self-expression and restricted freedom in the view of romance. Sun Wukong cannot exist unless Joker becomes him, and Joker cannot become Sun Wukong if he falls in love. He had the chance to love and he lost it, being forced to change who he is, knowing what he could have had. Chinese Odyssey became so popular because it explores what it means to sacrifice your own individuality and conform to societal expectations while still having slapstick humor.

And I won't lie and say that has also changed my view of romance with Wukong in that I do not think there can be a Retelling of Wukong where he gets with an SO. There can be great Reimangings or Alternative Universes (and there are) but if someone wants a faithful adaption of the story there can be additions such as adding a romantic subplot but in no circumstances can they end up together. And that could still be a good romantic story.

The quality of romance does not have to depend on a happy ending but one that relates to people and touches their hearts. I think the key to any romance is that connection to the audience, showing a level of genuine yearning and the struggle with that yearning that anyone can relate to when it comes to connecting to another person, romance or not.

Personally, I haven't seen a romance story done it better showing that desire for connection like Chinese Odessey since...

But I would say a close runner-up is the 1996 Journey to the West subplot within the show. As I think as far as relating to a character this is one that I found personally touched by.

In the 1996 Journey to the West is also not a one-to-one with the book as it follows more like a drama than an adventure story with deep character elements but still a wonderful adventure. This probably has the best tv live-action versions of the characters with just how in-depth they go with each character and we actively see them have their individual character arcs as they go from quarreling journeymates to a close-knit found family.

On one of these adventures they meet the Spider Sisters, but not all evil as one of the Sisters, Shishi, is trying to find her lost love from her past life. The gang helps her and Wukong RELUCTANTLY helps as well though he is distrustful of demons and sees no point in trying to find lost love. Shishi's sister, Enen, tags along as well and defends her sister's desire to find her lost love when to her, love is the most important thing in the world. But to Wukong he believes that learning Buddhism and teaching is what is most important. The more Enen and Wukong work together the more Enen falls in love with Wukong's compassion, heroism, and diligence, seeing him as someone to be admired and someone she wishes to impress as well.

The reason I adore this love story is that it is one-sided completely and I think that the narration does such a fantastic job of showing how much Wukong loves Enen has a friend and someone he cares about deeply but he just doesn't have romantic feelings for. I thought that the build-up of their relationship was fascinating in that Wukong comes to terms with seeing Enen as a good friend and someone who has changed his worldview that not all demons are after power, some are just living their lives, and just that knowing her platonically has made him a more compassionate person. But that is the issue in that Wukong's love for Enen is purely platonic and how he even refuses to compromise on his morals and lie to her that he feels the same when he loves her only as a friend.

Enen falls for Wukong because he is her friend and someone that she admires as well. She tries to become more like him by giving up meat and eating fruit and even trying to study Buddhism with him. She didn't do these acts because SHE wanted to, but rather so she could be closer to Wukong. But in the end (Enen loses her cultivation from a demon and asks Wukong to at least say 'I love you' before she turns back into her original form) she isn't able to make Wukong feel the same THOUGH NO FAULT OF HER OWN.

In my personal experience, I have felt this many times, when friends try to admit their feelings, and that soul-crushing burden of having to let them down gently. When you care about someone and are willing to support them or fight for them but the one thing you can't do is reciprocate their feelings. Wukong in this series is being hounded by both Bajie and Wujing to at least pretend for Enen's sake (she does uncultivated and returns to spider form but isn't dead) and when Wukong tells her that he does care for her but not in that way he is seen as the bad guy.

Enen did nothing wrong in falling for Wukong, but she wasn't able to accept that he just couldn't feel the same. And Wukong did nothing wrong in not feeling the same as he cares for his friend greatly but he cannot lie to himself or her how he feels because he respects her too much to lie. Bajie and Wujing both call him heartless but moreso that they feel so bad for Enen but Wukong is the one that has to carry the burden of her feelings for the rest of his life.

Some people might not see this as a love story at all but I think this is a type of love story that is very common and that people on both the receiving and the giving end can relate to. That dejection from rejection and opening your heart and thinking maybe if you change, or something is wrong with you, or that you are not good enough. That horrible feeling of guilt for things out of your control and not being able to give someone you deeply care about what they want and then feeling more guilt that there is something wrong with you for not feeling the same. I thought that the show has an advantage over movies as it gives the characters time and room to grow and change around each other. Wukong becomes more sympathetic to demons and even has a deeper understanding of the importance of love just by knowing Enen before she "died" and rather because she lived (and still lives) he still cares about her and wants her to live the best life she can.

Even in her spider form, even when she wouldn't be able to understand him, Wukong refuses to lie to her about his feelings but expresses that he wants her to live a good life, one that leads her to enlightenment and back to her human form. He cares so much about her but just not in the way that she wants. I think there is something very well done in how the show shows that it wasn't either of their faults and that while they can love one another you can't change people. People can only change if they want to change, and you can't force people to feel the same. There are different forms of love and each is important, and just because someone feels a different kind of love doesn't make it any less real.

To me, a love story is about connection and how the audience can feel themselves in the characters. Love can be scary and you're more often going to face rejection than anything but that doesn't mean it is anyone's fault. Sometimes people just don't feel the same, as much as they do care about you, and learning to accept that and let go is a part of growing up. As such I think that my favorite would be the 1996 subplot as I feel that is it both emotional and that it also still follows the Xiyouji format. Especially love Wukong going to the Red String of Fate guy (Yue Lao) and rewriting people's tragic love stories so they can live happily ever after!

I think that maybe I enjoyed this the most as I feel like it still captured Wukong's character wonderfully as someone who might not feel romantic feelings (following the book) but also someone who learns compassion and what it means to love another person. He knew what it was like for someone to love him and that is not something to be taken lightly. People being vulnerable and expressing their desire can be scary and something to be even admired but can still unavoidable cause pain. It wasn't his fault that he didn't like Enen back but he wanted her and even others to find that kind of love. He wants people to feel free to find comfort in connecting with another person even if it isn't himself.

That is to say, there aren't other romances that I did enjoy that are reciprocated love as well! Funny enough the ones that I really enjoy are all Japanese or based on the Saiyuki series.

Alakazam the Great (1960) 西遊記

Monkey Magic (1998) モンキーマジック

The New Legends of Monkey (2018) 新猴王传奇

I think the common factor of these is that Wukong in all these forms becomes a better person just by knowing their SO and take it upon themselves to become a better person, rather than the SO taking it upon themselves trying to 'fix' Wukong, I feel like that is an issue with a lot more modern romances of Wukong in that they are far too rushed, if Wukong does start off as a jerk then there is no real reason the SO should fall for him, and then Wukong doesn't stop being a jerk until the end when there is no proper resolution. It feels all very rushed and very forced.

I think that I enjoyed these versions mostly because they had the advantage of keeping the SO alive and they play on the trope of "changing for your loved ones" rather than "getting character development because of SO's death." We see Wukong in 1960 slowly relearn what it means to be humble and grateful to his SO Rinrin with her undying (literally) devotion and how this dedication leads to him wanting to be a better person deserving to be by her side. Monkey Magic 1998 is a surprising one but one that I found charming nonetheless as Goku is a hotheaded and impulsive person but everything he does is for his friends one being Fenya. They never confirmed their relationship but she is the only one who never treats Goku differently after he becomes the king and even when he demands her to call him as such she never lets him forget his humble roots which by the end he learns to return to. The last New Legends 2018 is also surprising as I really didn't enjoy the plot of this show and found the pacing painful, but that Monkey and Tripitaka's relationship was something that had a lot of potential. From Monkey's arrogant attitude and Tripitaka's deception of her true identity, I thought that the show handled them slowly but surely coming to trust and rely on each other. I feel like the show could do a lot more with their character development but I doubt we are getting a third season.

I will say a guilty pleasure of mine is Monkey King 2014 just cause it is more of an innocent childhood crush kind of feeling than anything else. I'm sad that she still dies but I feel like out of the Wukong romances I have seen (please note I haven't seen them all) I can see why the SO would fall for Wukong as he was nothing but sweet and kind to her and that I was sad to see her go.

[youledmehere]

Why do you like Rick and Michonne’s characters? (love them too just want to know what you like about them individually)

rick is just one of the best male characters to ever exist. i like that he’s strong but he’s always a family man first and foremost. he would do anything for his loved ones as we’ve seen throughout the show. he’s also so sacrificial, and something about that scratches an itch in my brain. he’s still caring and compassionate despite having to do some of the worst things in order to survive. he’s perceptive, smart and his mind is just always working?? if that makes sense? like that man constantly has plan after plan no matter the circumstances. i also think he’s the best leader and nothing will ever convince me otherwise. he constantly makes the hard decisions and is always stepping up when no one else will. he also just genuinely cares about people still which in that world means a lot. he doesn’t let the power he has ever go to his head. he doesn’t feel threatened by other powerful people and instead wants to work with them. he’s just a good man still, even in an apocalyptic world. it also helps that andrew lincoln is so goddamn talented. there will never be another rick grimes.

and michonne will always be my favorite character. she’s been my favorite since her entrance. she just has a certain presence that makes me watch her in awe. she’s very resourceful and pragmatic, her creativity with walkers especially is something that stands out and shows she thinks outside the box. i think her progression as a character is severely underrated because people just want her to stand there and look cool while having bad ass moments. she also came on the show already knowing how to kill walkers and survive on her own so people overlook her even more in terms of growth. she’s obviously iconic with her look and katana and being such a powerhouse but she has a one of the most biggest journeys in the show. she goes from being a closed off loner to an integral part of the group and a leader in her own right! she’s very loyal but she’s also not afraid to voice her opinions. she’s strong both physically and mentally. she’s highly skilled. she doesn’t take shit from people and knows when things or situations don’t sound right. she’s good at reading people. she just always makes sense and works hard to improve whatever problems arise. she’s someone who loves fiercely and is protective of her loved ones. she also has a fun side and a sense of humor. she is still a warrior while also being a mother and wife. she’s just well balanced and someone to admire. and honestly danai is the reason michonne as a character has so much more depth and personality, writing aside she does so much with so little sometimes and she is always a stand out.

[eternal-echoes]

Things I admire about Yor

1. Emotional intelligence

She’s very compassionate and empathetic with people she never wants to be too forceful about anything on people even if it’s good for them.

2. Generosity

How even though people insult her to her face she is still willing put her heart and soul in her assassin job for the sake of peace in her country. She could easily walk away from her job saying that these people aren’t worth defending but she continues to risk her life for them.

3. Selflessness

She won't take revenge when people insult her but when it comes to her family she’ll go berserk.

4. Eagerness to kill bad guys

This sorta also refers to her selflessness as she doesn't really seek any reward for her hard work; for her apprehending evil men to preserve peace is a reward in itself.

5. Prioritizing the safety of others even at the risk of revealing her identity

This is actually one of the things I like about Yor more than Twilight; Yor is always willing to protect others first than think about how someone might suspect she is an assassin.

Unlike Twilight who wouldn’t do “the whole ‘tearful reunion’ thing” with Anya because someone might find it suspicious.

I guess I should take into account that spies and assassins are trained differently; assassins just go to their targets, get the job done, and then get out of there as soon as possible while spies have to have prolonged contact with their targets to get information out of them so maintaining cover and thoroughly making sure there are no slip-ups is a must or else it would mean their identity known and death. But to me it still evidence that Twilight prioritizes his career over family than Yor does.

6. She slays, both by her beauty and as an assassin

7. How she sees the beauty in small things

I think it's a testament to how she sees even small things as a blessing.

How Yor wanted Loid to witness Anya being effortlessly cute.

This screencap is a small one but I thought it was really cute how teary-eyed she was when Anya told the story about George Glooman. She just admires kids being little kids.

8. Her rawness about showing her feelings

It's really infectious, I feel like that's why Twilight can't help but be honest about his feelings as well.

It’s amazing how despite working in a job that forces her to be merciless she still hasn’t lost the warmness of her heart. It’s what has been missing throughout Twilight’s life and what Anya has been desperately looking for since escaping the science facility.

[theninthdoor]

pac || what do they wanna tell you?

🕸 think of a specific person, take 3 deep breaths and pick one of the piles below to get a message from them! this should give you an idea of what's going through your person's mind right now & what they would like to tell you in this moment. 🕸 take only what resonates and leave the rest! if you feel like the pile you've initially picked doesn't really apply to the person/situation you're thinking of, it's OK to pick another one. 🕸 remember that this is all for entertainment purposes and that free will still exists. don't feel pressured to do anything you don't want to, just because your person thinks this or that, ok? 🕸 enjoy, my friends!

💭 pile 1 || cards: strength, two of cups, the hierophant, 2. Yin, 27. Exchanging Gifts

Before I even started shuffling, I kept feeling that the people who are picking pile 1 are the most introverted, quiet and/or sensitive of everyone who's coming across this post. I actually left this pile for last because it was so still and silent, while the others had so much information jumping out of them already (before I got their spreads, I mean).

So, my sweet pile 1, the person you're thinking of has a lot of appreciation and admiration for you. They have noticed how kind and charming you are, and see you as someone they would like to keep close going forward. Your person finds you truly, truly endearing… You're not only beautiful on the outside but your heart, too, is made of gold. If you haven't spoken to this person yet, they would love you to make that move towards them. You two fit very well into each other's lives and, regardless of the kind of relationship this would end up being, it would still be a solid, balanced and close connection. On the other hand, if they are someone you're already friendly with, they just want to let you know that you mean so, so much to them! This is a relationship they cherish a lot, and are hoping lasts for a lifetime. In this case, though, your person also wants you to know that they are always there for you and genuinely wish you the best life can offer. They will always support you no matter what; when you're happy, they are happy; when you're sad, they feel it too. Don't ever think you're alone, ok? They are right there, ready to help you and care for you. Lastly, if the person you're thinking of is someone you're romantically interested in, whenever you're ready, make the move, pile 1! They feel the same way as you! You may be lacking the confidence or certainty to approach them, which is likely due to what we saw early on - your introversion; you being naturally quiet and shy, and/or quite sensitive -, but this is a safe connection for you to invest in, pile 1, alright? The person you're thinking of won't judge or hurt you, and rest assured that their heart is in the right place. (The same applies for friendships, of course! It's OK for you to approach your person - they are honest, compassionate and reliable people.)

💭 pile 2 || cards: seven of cups rx, ten of swords, king of wands, 32. Here and Now, 39. New Life

For this pile, I feel like some of you might have recently moved to a new city, school or university, or workplace. You may be trying your best right now to romanticize your life, either because you feel like it's the only way you can bear the changes or because you're actually using this opportunity to build a whole new persona (without the flaws or embarassments of the past). Either way, the person you're think of, dear pile 2, is saying "You don't need to fake it. I know exactly what kind of person you are, and I like it a lot!". Your person is very, very aware of what is going on through you head right now, and they know exactly why you have been acting in a particular way as of late - not only because it is clearly unnatural, but also due to the fact that they are pretty intuitive people, too, and picked up on something that wasn't quite right here. Whether you have known them before or not, they want you to drop the act and show your truest self to them - not the perfect character you've built, not the person you think you should be; the real you! They want you to be present in the moment and to enjoy your real, daily life as it is. You're actually blocking a lot of blessings and good connections and experiences because you're too focused on the looks of things; on how it ideally should be. You're forcing yourself to do certain things, to look a certain way or to behave in a particular manner, and that shouldn't have to happen for you to enjoy how you are living or to be proud of what/who you have to show your new friends/colleagues/classmates. Go with the flow, accept the changes and stay positive about the whole thing. If this happened - if you were pulled away from what was familiar to you - it's because it was needed in order for you to grow and prosper! Getting used to it, growing into it, shouldn't be forced and neither should it be a struggle. It's OK to want to build a new life and persona that we desire, but we can't erase our whole selves and past life while at it. We live, grow and evolve; we're not a whiteboard that you can just sweep clean to write something new on there. Essentially, pile 2, your person wants you to embrace who you were before these changes, to share that with them, and to stop worrying so much about having the "ideal life" and being the "perfect person".

💭 pile 3 || cards: seven of swords, justice rx, seven of cups, 20. Imagine, 37. Never-ending Story, 32. Here and Now

My dear pile 3, we have a stalker in your hands… Either you are the stalker (which I think only applies to a very few of the people who picked this pile) or someone has been keeping tabs on your every move lately. The person you're thinking of has been keeping a very close watch on you; daydreaming about what could've been or what could still be. For some, this connection ended on a sour note, with you walking away from them after some sort of disagreement or situation that didn't sit right with you. If that's the case, your person is trying to find a way back into your life, for sure! They have been looking for every little door of opportunity that can excuse their comeback. Your social media is likely to be the means through which they are staying up to date with what you do and, if you're posting pics with some new people, they'll certainly go creep on their pages as well. If you are the stalker, however, they are already aware of you and are actually thinking of confronting you about it. I don't see them being upset or creeped out, at all, though! As I said before, your person does want to find a way into your life - in this case, it is because they are also curious about you or because they miss you. Whatever has happened in the past involving the two of you, my dear pile 3, the person you're thinking of wants to let you know that "things weren't exactly as it seemed". You got the wrong impression of them, somehow, or of the situation. I feel like this person, although they appear quite extroverted and open, they keep a lot to themselves and it takes a while for anyone to get to know the real them. The person you're seeing or thinking of, isn't exactly the person they truly are, deep down… there's so much more to it. And your understanding of what might've happened in the past isn't totally right, either. Finally, if you feel confident enough to do it, your person would be more than happy to have you approach them first; to have you reveal yourselves to them or open that door for them to come back into your life. Stay open to listen to their side of the story - it might surprise you.

decks used || Tarot of the New Vision & Wisdom of the Oracle Divination Cards

(Disclaimer: Based on current energies. All is alleged and for entertainment purposes only.)

[throwawayasoiafaccount]

unedited rant starting now :)

funny how neither dany nor arya are listed as feminine and strong. do they not fit ur standards for feminine women? would they be strong in a “masculine way” then?

dany and arya are strong in their own ways. dany is ruling in her own right and is freeing slaves as she goes. is this the masculine strength you were talking about? is arya executing a traitor masculine strength?

why isn’t cersei strong in a masculine way then based off your definition? why does she have a woman’s strength? why is she feminine and strong but not dany and arya when she does similar things as them, the difference being that she’s crazy and edging closer to evil territory? cersei wishes she could have the power dany has. cersei wishes she had a sword like arya. is she only feminine to you because cersei is limited by the patriarchy and societal rules? why does femininity seem to mean being limited by the men around our characters to you?

you say sansa was passive and got manipulated a lot, which, while true, isn’t the only way for women to be feminine.

i thought being feminine means liking dresses and makeup and gushing over boys. i thought it meant gossiping with your friends over snacks and tea. i thought it meant being sweet, kind, gentle, empathetic, tender, and compassionate. i didn’t know that being feminine means you can’t be strong in a “masculine way.” because being strong in a masculine way seems to mean liking horseback riding and swinging a sword and ruling as a woman without a king. op, it seems like you’re a big hypocrite when claiming that cersei and arianne are feminine and strong while associating femininity with only passiveness and ignoring the femininity in women who are very active and don’t exactly conform, aka being strong in a “masculine way.”

let’s be clear, a woman can be both “feminine” and “masculine.” even though i hate designating female characters in such a rigid and oppressive system meant to make women conform to the patriarchy.

liking active characters isn’t a bad thing. liking characters who try to change the world they live in isn’t something that makes them strong in a “masculine way.” it just means that these characters are stepping out of the gender roles, and this does not make them unfeminine. a la arya saving weasel and dany protecting the people she could while drogo was alive are examples of two female characters being active while being constricted by 1) gender roles for dany and 2) class difference for arya (she posed as a small folk). these two characters also escape these societal constraints. dany rules as queen due to her dragons and arya is training as a faceless man and is gaining power. stepping out of their gender roles does not make them unfeminine and their strength should not be associated with masculine strength because they are both female characters in a world that is very unkind to women.

to kinda sum up my points, being active doesn’t make a character unfeminine, and i despise how you’re calling characters who are trying to live beyond their gender roles unfeminine. you are literally undermining actual women who decided to not conform to our patriarchy and horrible societal standards that dictate how a woman should conduct herself. it is not wrong to favor these nonconforming women as well. nor is it cool to undermine their strength by saying that they’re strong in a masculine way. this completely ignores the fact that these characters are going against the patriarchy in the books and should be applauded for it. the mormot women and brienne and arya don’t have it easier by being non conforming women. and it should be admired that they still take up this challenge because they have a right to exist the way that they want to. we readers should not degrade these characters who are going against a very oppressive system. and excuse me for not being impressed by sansa, who is very classist and a bully. excuse me for feeling bad for her but not favoring her because i appreciate the kindness and “masculine strength” of arya, and dany, and brienne more. excuse me for clearly not being a girls girl.

now, i agree that being feminine isn’t a weakness. but i hate how you’re ignoring the femininity in women who you consider strong in a “masculine way” and then saying that people with tastes like mine are in the wrong and therefore don’t like female characters at all. it’s very insulting and i can’t take you seriously because of how hypocritical you are by claiming cersei and arianne are strong and feminine, two characters who clearly want power in a “masculine way,” while not listing dany nor arya as feminine. dany and arya both should have come to your mind before arianne.

people can dislike whoever they want. stop trying to tell people that disliking certain characters and liking others is wrong because your standards aren’t met. it’s annoying.

[khalixvitae]

Ok so rip @6okuto and everyone else who has to see this but: here comes my breakdown comparison of Vil and Asmo. I have been adding to this for two days now.

So in short: are they alike? Yes. But no. But also yes! It’s complicated. Because really, we’re not talking about two people here- we’re talking about four. Both Vil and Asmo have extremely public occupations, but that doesn’t make either of them devoid of a private life. But what it does make is a clear difference between their private desires and their public personas, which both have carefully curated to fulfill certain needs. They are both people, yes, but they’re also both Names. Brands, even, if you want to push it a little further. And like, naturally, this is going to cause friction because ultimately they are people with wants and needs etc etc.

So the best way to talk about this is to sort of break down their individual public and private desires/personas and the subsequent internal friction that creates👍. As well as the similarities and differences they share👍

So Vil, to the public, is poised and charismatic. Eternally put together, media trained for his whole life, somehow good at everything he puts his mind to; effectively perfect. That’s a big draw for his fans and admirers in the canon- he’s just so good that it’s impossible not to notice. But as effortless as it all may appear from the outside, it’s actually a product of intense labor. That’s par for the course, though- Vil believes he should work hard and be acknowledged for his immaculate results (but to beg to be praised publicly for your work/efforts??? For the process itself? would be so tacky in Vil’s mind). Vil’s “brand” as a public figure is about his perfection, and his work towards it, but only in moderation. It’s got to look effortless even if every move is carefully thought out, but all credit must go to his routines and regimens. It’s like his discipline in itself must appear effortless. It’s. Really convoluted when you think about it. But I digress.

Anyway, the difference in branding when it comes to Asmo should already be somewhat apparent. Asmo is all about being charismatic and beautiful, sure, but in a hot mess party girl kind of way. Like he’s curated this whole persona where he’s meant to be perfect and oh so lovable not despite his mannerisms, but because of them. He’s turned hedonism into an endearing trait- which I would assume flies so well because he’s. Yk. A demon and all. Which also the mechanic of him being a demon definitely contributes to the differences between his and Vil’s public personas. Asmo is flashy, and loud, and his antics are publicly received as cute. Endearing. He’s a hot mess and the devildom’s most beautiful resident. Not to mention his innate charm thing- I mean that. Definitely contributes to his whole. Thing. And also, Asmo’s whole bit about loving himself more than anyone else is a major part of this persona!!! That is critical to keep in mind!!! They are both insanely smart and have carefully designed the way that they are perceived!!! Even if they have created diametrically opposed personas, they are meant to have similar effects in their respective universes/social groups!!!

But despite these differences, Asmo and Vil are both public figures and influencers with a particular aim: to be adored. To be the favorite of their respective audiences. Which I mean, really, makes sense all things considered. They couldn’t be more different on the surface, but at the same time they’ve both carefully curated their public images to achieve the same end. But then we get into the personal sphere, and everything really turns on its head.

In both of their respective personal lives, Asmo and Vil are… honestly very compassionate. They both go out of their way to care for the people closest to them/that they feel responsible for, especially through acts of service. I feel like we do see that more with Vil than with Asmo, but also that feels unfair considering that they have very different personalities??? So while we may see Vil doing things like making personalized skincare products for everyone in his dorm and doling out tough love to his dorm mates, Asmo dotes on the MC similarly but with a much softer touch. Both are very keen on helping those they care about become better versions of themselves, even if their respective ideas of what that may look like do differ.

I feel like some of the more personal characteristics of Vil and Asmo get lost in fandom interpretations, which makes me sad?? They’re both frequently painted as shallow and self absorbed beauty queens, but in all actuality that’s just ??? In universe propaganda??? Like these surface level traits people so often ascribe to them are derived from the gossip of their peers, and also both of them are known to use these misconceptions to their advantage in their respective canons. Vil and Asmo are so incredibly smart, I really cannot stress that enough. Everything about them is planned, preened, and perfected so that it elicits a particular reaction. And in their personal lives, away from the public, those personas are hard to shake and often their peers have wildly inaccurate ideas about them. Which creates a crazy amount of tension within both of them, because at their very core they both want the same thing.

To be seen for what they are, and appreciated for it. Loved for it, even. To be seen as people and still be chosen, to have all their efforts recognized and respected.

And that creates problems for them! In Asmo’s case, he’s clinging to this persona he’s created both in public and often in private. He’s built his entire new life as a demon around the corpse of his past as an angel. He’s pivoted, essentially rebuilding himself from the ground up because as we’ve seen in OM, angels don’t have much in the way of a sense of independent identity. They’re strongly tied to their titles- so when Asmo lost his place amongst the heavens, he lost /everything/. He’s clinging to his former self by nothing but his fucking fingernails because he has to make it work in order to still be Asmodeus. He has to perform. Not to mention his whole innate demonic lust charm thing. From the get go, people look at Asmo and think a particular way about him. And it’s so interesting because he seems both comforted and repulsed by that. Which is why when the MC has no reaction to him, he’s threatened by it. Because while Asmo wants, no needs, someone to see him and want him for what he is, someone to read between the lines and make the effort to understand him (his Snow Angel (?) UR+ card is my Bible btw), the fact that someone could evade his charm makes him vulnerable. And he hates that. It’s the same reason he can’t be honest about how he feels in the first place. Asmo is a house of cards and he knows it. That’s why he makes a pact with the MC in the first place. He’s pivoting.

So similarly, Vil also has this delicately constructed persona that he’s white knuckle gripping. His entire life he’s been type casted as the villain- he’s effectively been used as a prop for years. And the only way (in his mind) to escape that is to be better. But people have these wildly inaccurate ideas about him that continue to have him type casted even in personal situations. Which in turn makes it impossible for his goal to be realized- it’s a never ending cycle of trying to be good enough to be recognized as any good at all. But the harder he tries, the more he’s misunderstood. Plus with the whole “cast as a villain since childhood” thing going for him, he’s already got his work cut out for him. And no matter how hard he tries, he’s always bested by someone who doesn’t even see him as proper competition. Not because he doesn’t acknowledge Vil’s talent, but because he doesn’t consider their occupation to be competitive. But so yeah you get this really fucked up mess where he cannot bear to be vulnerable because he’s only ever had himself to rely on (because people like the idea of the shiny celebrity Vil, not the normal guy, so eventually they leave), nobody wants to get closer to him because they have insane ideas about his personality, and then Vil can’t even admit he wants to be recognized because he’d feel desperate and Vil Schoenheit is not desperate. Which is why when he cracks in book 5 of twst, you really get to see the messy root of it all. That he needs someone to look at him and see all his hard work. He wants to be chosen and valued and respected, not just flaunted to draw in views before being thrown away. But he also can’t stand for people to see him in such a state, because that means being seen “under construction” rather than in pristine condition. More than anything though, he wants the people closest to him to see that and choose to stay, to still follow and adore him.

So like. In private, both Asmo and Vil want to be recognized as people. They both have really fucked up senses of self/personhood for their own respective reasons. They’re both intelligent and compassionate and keenly aware of their situation. They know what they are and what they want to be and they’ll tear themselves apart and reshape the scraps until they get it just right because that’s the only way they know how to be. They both want someone to see them for what they are, acknowledge it, and still find god in their eyes. They have everything in the world except the one thing they’re actually after, and that’s to be favored by all and simultaneously loved by people who actually know them. It’s difficult to admit that what you want will contradict what you’ve put years and years worth of effort into. It’s. Messy??? And convoluted ??? And I feel like I haven’t explained this well???

Anyway yeah so. Are Vil and Asmo similar? Yes. But also no. But also yes? I hope this helps rip. I am definitely missing things so I’m calling in reinforcements, @v-anrouge if there’s anything I missed I truly do consider you the foremost expert on Vil 🫡