#which i know is normal as a young person. but that doesn't make it go away 😭😭

[lol-jackles]

It's been a while since we talked about SPN. So I wanted to ask you what you think of this essay on Sam (if you have the patience to listen to it, it's about 20 minutes). For some things the author's opinions are legitimate but for others, in my opinion, they are not. Especially for the finale, on which I do not share this opinion at all. www*youtube*com/watch?v=xLCB4RhiP5A&t=4s

I'm not even going to add the link, which tells you what I think of Rachel's opinion. I only agree that season 4 was a bit of a misfire.

Three minutes into the video and I was already bored with her complaints over the "lack" Sam's autonomy and pov.  Her Dean blaming got old really fast. Yeah, Dean is unfair towards Sam but 1) that's what brothers do, and most importantly 2) that's what happens to main characters, they constantly get shitted on. One of the biggest reliefs in real life is realizing you're not the main character. In The X Files, Mulder is called a loser even by the freaks and rarely given grace. Nobody apparently trusts Bode in Fire Country despite saving lives. Xena was always getting reminded of her less stellar past in Warrior Princess.

Sam girls get mad when stuff from Sam’s past gets brought up because they think he’s being unfairly punished for it.  At least Sam’s past is valid enough to be mentioned.  Cas’s storyline gets the LOL treatment and Dean’s arcs are always getting dropped; his hell trauma, tenure as the torturer’s apprentice, Michael’s vessel, demon, MOC, all are dropped and largely forgotten.

Probably the only time the AAs and I are in agreement is Dean's pov means squat because Dean isn't being talked about by other characters. Dean and his pov mainly revolve around Sam. To quote a casual observer I found on tumblr: Sam gets the larger story arcs in the show and Dean gets more of the “silly and fun” filler episodes.

As for Sam's autonomy, my guess is she and I have differing views on the meaning of the word. IMO, autonomous characters often have these traits:

A tendency to resist authority (Sam rebelling against John, Dean, Lucifer, and Chuck)

High level of self-assuredness (Sam knows himself outside the hunting lifestyle)

A need for personal space and privacy (Sam is a private person and admits not sharing his deep personal issues with Dean)

A preference for independence in social situations (Sam is not a follower)

An innate desire for control and decision making power (Sam's life long issue, demon blood infection made it worse)

A desire to set and achieve individual goals and aspirations. (Sam's consistent endgame through the entire series)

A character with autonomy means they have ability to act independently and make decisions without being influenced by others. They have strong sense of self, able to think critically, are self-sufficient and able to take responsibility for their actions. Doesn't that last sentence sound like Sam Winchester to the tee?

Oh yeah I very much Disagree with her take on the series finale.  Sam didn't die a bitter old man, what the heck was Rachel watching??? Sam peacefully passed away in his house with his beloved son at his side. Sam's son was clearly a well adjusted young man with a happy childhood. Happy well adjusted offsprings don't come from bitter parents. Sam wasn't bitter, sad yes, but not bitter because he accomplished the goal he had since his own childhood: to have a normal life outside of hunting and raise his own family. Most SPN fans were happy or satisfied with the finale because the Winchester legacy lives on.

[quirkwizard]

On the Matter of Quirk Counseling

So one of the hot-button issues of the fan base is the subject of Quirk Counseling. That it's this horrific practice done to "deviants" like Himiko to make them normal, and it's what turned her into the person she is today. And with the ending, people thought that Uraraka working to spread it out over the country was a terrible thing and was only going to make more problems. Naturally, this is something I disagree with. At least, to the extent the fanbase takes it.

We're told that Quirk Counseling is a program that helps the youth understand and adjust to living in modern society. However, as we see with Himiko and her flashbacks, this kind of process can end up isolating people who don't fit in with that society. A pretty grim perspective on the world. However, I don't think it's the most reliable one. This is the kind of perspective we get from Chitose, who is someone who is radically opposed to how society handles Quirks and wants to destroy it, and Toga, someone who was hurt by this same process. So I think that paints a specific picture of the practice. One that may not be entirely true.

Because in spite of being such a big part of a major villain, we know very little about what Quirk Counseling entails. We're told by Midnight that every kid goes through Quirk Counseling during elementary school. So every character in the series must have undergone this same process at some point. During Tamaki's flashback, we see something like this going on in middle school. People being taught how to use their Quirks, at least in a basic way. This is later reinforced during the Remedial Course Arc, where the whole point is the heroes helping to teach kids about their powers. All in all, it doesn't seem that terrible, and it seems to work with a lot of people in the world.

This all paints a different picture of what exactly Quirk Counseling entails. Because when we see it in action, it's mostly just teaching people how to use their Quirks and helping them understand their own powers. Which isn't a bad thing. Quirks can be very dangerous and wild, even from a young age. It's important you know how it works, whether it be how it functions or how to use it. Better yet, how not to use it. Because, as we have seen, the unchecked usage of Quirks is going to be dangerous for everyone involved. Values like this need to be put into kids at a young age to keep any kind of peace or stability in the broader world. And it seems to work.

Himiko is an odd case within the world. Someone whose Quirk had a potent effect on their interests and personality, more so than any other person we've seen. She is an outlier. A deviant. Yet she was still a little girl that needed help. Maybe, if she had gotten the right help, she wouldn't be the person she is today. And that is part of the tragedy of Himiko. That the concept of normality has been so enforced that they can't even hope to properly help Himiko. The problem wasn't the system itself. The problem came in its inefficiency to handle cases like Himiko. Outliers that couldn't handle possibly fit within the brackets of "normal." And when all that pressure comes down on someone, they will eventually break under it.

It's why I don't think that Quirk Counseling growing is the problem everyone tries to make it out to be. Uraraka's helping to expand the system that is meant to help and teach kids about their powers. We've seen how that can help troubled kids. The Remedial Course is the prime example of that, where it's something that works with the kids rather than trying to strongarm them. And with that system growing, it will help to prevent cases like Himiko. It can help the kids learn about themselves and their powers. It can show kids not how to be "normal." But what they're going through isn't something they have to be afraid of and can live with. Just as Himiko could have. Expanding this isn't disrespecting her. It's keeping other kids to suffer like she did.

[danganronpasurvivoraskblog]

Dangancember 2024 - Danganronpa Top 24 Class Trials - NUMBER 3🥉: Danganronpa 1 Case 2 {BEST CASE FROM DR1}

//Our Bronze Medalist for this ranking is the second trial from the first game. And that fact alone is kind of surprising.

//DR1 has by far the most simple of mysteries, largely thanks to the later games really going all out with the complexities and red herrings. So some of you might be wondering why this particular case, a relatively early one in its respective game, ranks so highly on my list.

//Well young boys and girls...let me tell you a tale. The tale of how Mod Creeper first discovered a visual novel series that permanently changed his life.

//Well, actually, I'm make it short. This was the very first Danganronpa case I ever experienced. Rather than starting with the beginning of the series, I initially watched a playthrough of the first game and skipped the opening case.

//Which turned out to be no skin off my nose after all.

//But yeah, the first mystery I truly immersed myself in was Game 1, Case 2, and it was a transformative moment. As soon as I finished watching it, I knew without a doubt that this was the series for me.

//And you know I mean that, because I wrote a WHOLE FANFIC CENTERED AROUND THE STUFF THAT HAPPENS IN THIS CASE.

//What makes this case particularly memorable is the compelling character dynamics it brings to the forefront. Much like the previous cases I've discussed, the interplay between the characters is one of its strongest aspects.

//Additionally, this case excels at keeping you on your toes, constantly making you second-guess your assumptions. It’s this combination of personal nostalgia and expertly crafted intrigue that solidifies its place on my list.

//Okay, so to start with, Chapter 2 is fine. It's just an okay chapter, but it's important because it's designed to keep you hooked and sets the tone for what’s to come.

//The motive Monokuma dangles in front of the students this time is as juicy as it is insidious: he threatens to reveal their most humiliating, deeply buried secrets to the entire class unless someone commits murder.

//Compared to the family-threat motive from Chapter 1, this doesn't SEEM as immediately threatening, but it does end up upping the ante by turning every interaction into a potential minefield. Who knows what horrors could be lurking in those envelopes? A secret love of pineapple on pizza? A forbidden fondness for poorly-written fanfiction? The stakes skyrocket.

//And it's what actually HAPPENS with this motive that I really like, but since it leads to the murder, we'll get to that.

//But that’s not all. This chapter also carries the weight of being the first post-trial chapter in the entire series, assuming you’re playing in chronological order. By now, you’ve endured your first taste of the ultimate despair buffet: someone you thought was your friend turned out to be an unreliable backstabber, and you watched an innocent-seeming baseball star get pulverized by an iron-fisted pinball machine.

//Suffice to say, the air is heavy, and for the first time, the game makes you sit with that weight. This isn’t just a wacky murder mystery anymore; it’s a psychological marathon, and the runners are already limping.

//On a more character-driven note, Chapter 2 marks a significant tonal shift for our cinnamon-roll protagonist, Makoto. With Sayaka out of the picture, Makoto loses that last little tether of hope she provided. Sure, she annoyed some players with her "walking embodiment of plot drama" energy, but she gave Makoto a reason to act brave when she couldn’t.

//Now, with her absence, Makoto is left fumbling to fill that void. The chapter is as much about the students attempting to "return to normal" as it is about Makoto trying to figure out what "normal" even means when your classmates keep dropping like flies. Spoiler alert: it’s not the kind of normal that includes a carefree lunch break.

//This setup works beautifully because it’s multifaceted. On top of the fear and Despair dangling over everyone's heads, the motive manipulates the social dynamic, forcing the students to confront their own vulnerabilities and question their trust in one another. Plus, the lingering despair from Chapter 1 makes it clear that the emotional stakes are here to stay. Combined with a protagonist trying to rebuild his own hope, the chapter lays the groundwork for the spiral of distrust and tension that defines the series.

//But sadly, the peace does not last, because someone does end up cracking under the pressure, and a murder is committed.

//One of the reasons this case stands out as excellent, at least to me, is how seamlessly every mystery, twist, and solution contributes to a memorable character moment. Moments that often ripple across the rest of the game in a big way. And right from the start, this case has a leg up simply because I adore both the victim and the killer.

//It’s rare to find a case where both roles are handled so compellingly, but this one nails it. And they are genuinely the complete reverse case to Kirumi and Ryoma for me, where they were BOTH INSANELY interesting to me.

//ESPECIALLY Chihiro.

//And goddammit if I wasn't so excited to get to this case JUST so I could talk about Chihiro.

//In case I haven't already made it blindingly obvious, Chihiro is far and away my favourite character from the orginal cast, and quite possibly my second favourite character in the entire series behind ONLY Kaede. He's a character whose very existence throws the audience for a loop, and I mean that in the best way possible.

//Many of the mysteries in this case stem directly from Chihiro as a character, and even in death, he remains one of the most impactful figures in the entire Danganronpa series. There’s just something so fascinating about how he subverts expectations, because on the surface, he seems shy, weak, and submissive; traits that might lead you to underestimate him. But dig deeper, and you’ll find one of the most quietly strong-hearted characters in the series.

//What really made me love Chihiro was how he reacted to Monokuma’s motive, because he does something that NO OTHER CHARACTER (Besides Kaito in V3-1 and his group, which only got interrupted by Rantaro and Tsumugi being cucks) has done before. Unlike most of the other characters, who either try to ignore the motive or contemplate murder to protect their secrets, Chihiro takes a third option. He chooses to face it head-on, not with violence, but with determination and self-improvement.

//While at this point in any Danganronpa game, others are spiraling into paranoia, Chihiro decides to do something about it. His secret, as revealed in this case as a part of the mystery to why he died in the place that he did, and it's a brilliant twist that turns the trial on its head.

//If no murder occurred, Monokuma would expose this secret, but instead of succumbing to despair or committing a crime to protect himself, Chihiro chooses a different path.

//He decides to work on himself, to build emotional and physical strength, so that he can one day share his truth on his own terms. It’s a clever, admirable response, especially coming from someone who can’t even bring himself to swat a mosquito.

//Of course, this brave decision leads to tragedy. Chihiro seeks help from the wrong person, the killer of this case, and his noble intentions are ultimately met with betrayal. It’s heartbreaking to see someone so full of potential and hope meet such an untimely end, and it makes the case all the more gut-wrenching.

//I do really wish that Chihiro had lived longer, but this case is so good, that I can forgive the decision to kill him off relatively early.

//(And no, Alter Ego is a different character than Chihiro. I have already explained that I feel this way. Despite being based on Chihiro, he is an entirely different personality, and plays a whole different role in the story, with different experiences.)

//But the beauty of this case lies in how it uses this tragedy. It doesn’t just stop at shocking revelations; it digs into the emotional fallout and how it affects the rest of the cast. Chihiro’s story, even in death, becomes a catalyst for some of the game’s most significant character growth and development. It’s not just a twist for the sake of a twist. it’s a deeply human story about vulnerability, courage, and the consequences of trust.

//And honestly, if you didn’t shed at least one tear for Chihiro, I might have to question whether Monokuma replaced your heart with a Monokuma Coin.

//But Chihiro’s death sets the stage for the investigation, which, if I’m being completely honest, is my least favorite part of this otherwise stellar case.

//Don’t get me wrong, the clues themselves are great, and piecing everything together during the trial is an absolute blast. I lost count of how many jaw-dropping moments this case delivered.

//But the journey to find those clues? Let’s just say it’s not exactly a highlight reel.

//The investigation is slow. Like, waiting in line at the DMV, slow. And the biggest drag? Spending the majority of it with Byakuya.

//Now, I get that Byakuya is supposed to be this insufferable know-it-all with a superiority complex, and he has a very important role to play in this trial, but during this segment, he takes it to a whole new level. It’s not just that he’s condescending; it’s that he doesn’t even treat you as a person.

//To Byakuya, Makoto is just some vaguely sentient tool he can use to exploit the Ultimate Lucky Student talent.

//And if you think that sounds unpleasant, trust me, it’s worse in practice. Byakuya doesn’t so much guide you through the investigation as he does lecture clues at you. Instead of letting you have the satisfaction of uncovering things on your own, he practically shoves the answers in your face while monologuing about how much smarter he is.

//Honestly, I would’ve been happier if he just handed me a checklist of locations and let me investigate solo. But no, we’re stuck with Mr. "I’m Rich and Therefore Better Than You" for the majority of this slog.

//Don’t get me wrong, Byakuya’s character is intentionally written to get under your skin, and in that sense, he’s wildly effective. But that doesn’t make it any less frustrating to have him glued to your side during what’s supposed to be a pivotal, player-driven part of the game. It’s like trying to solve a murder mystery while your annoying cousin keeps pointing out the obvious and claiming they solved it first.

//That said, I can’t let this one annoying sequence sour my opinion of the case as a whole. The investigation may drag, but it’s worth it for the payoff in the trial, where all those clues come together in spectacular fashion. So, while I may have groaned every time Byakuya opened his mouth, I can’t deny the sheer brilliance of the twists and revelations that followed. Just, uh, maybe next time give me the option to leave him in the library where he belongs?

//Anyway, the investigation wraps up, and you have your clues. It's trial time!

//This trial starts off super well, because as I said, it is absolutely FILLED with plot twists, and not a single one of them is uninteresting, or drags the trial. But the most obvious one is covered IMMEDIATELY; and not even in a way that you have to figure it out, but it's instead told to you, and you have to help explain it.

//As I mentioned earlier, one of the reasons I’m such a fan of this trial is its clever use of a red herring. Now, red herrings are a tricky beast in storytelling, because how effective they are can vary wildly depending on who you’re talking to.

//For me, a good red herring is like a well-spiced meal: it adds intrigue, hides additional mysteries, and, when done right, leads to a surprising and satisfying twist. But there’s a fine line. Overdo it, and your audience will start rolling their eyes instead of gasping in delight.

//Thankfully, Danganronpa strikes a balance that works more often than not. The series has its fair share of red herrings, but they’re spaced out just enough to avoid becoming irritating. In my opinion, the two best examples are in V3-2, where Maki’s unexpected encounter with Ryoma flips everything we thought we knew, and, of course, the one in this case. Even if you can predict the twist, the journey to uncover it and the way it’s handled are what make it memorable.

//The red herring here revolves around a character who has only been vaguely hinted at so far but takes center stage in this chapter: Genocide Jack, the infamous serial killer who exclusively targets attractive men.

//Genocide Jack’s notoriety is built up brilliantly. This is someone who’s eluded law enforcement for ages, a near-mythical figure whose very name sends shivers down spines. So naturally, when Genocide Jack’s name pops up in connection with Chihiro’s murder, thanks to a familiar message carved in blood on the wall, everyone starts freaking out and pointing fingers. Could this be the mastermind? Is the infamous Ultimate Murderous Fiend behind the bloodshed?

//And then Byakuya, in his usual smug fashion, drops the mic:

//Now, as I already admitted, the reveal isn’t exactly the world’s most shocking twist. If you’ve been paying attention to Toko’s erratic behavior, you could probably piece it together.

//But the way it’s revealed is pure gold.

//Toko is revealed to have Dissociative Identity Disorder (not the same as Schizophrenia as I was led to believe for so long, so I apologize for being unable to make the distinction in the past), with her alternate personality being none other than Genocide Jack; or, as she prefers to be called, Genocide Jill (or Genocider Sho, if you’re rocking the Japanese version).

//And let me tell you, Genocide Jill is a RIOT. She’s like the unhinged cartoon villain you never knew you needed in your murder mystery.

//What makes Jill so fascinating is how she manages to be both a perfect foil AND a twisted mirror of Toko. On one hand, she’s loud, outgoing, and unapologetically chaotic, everything Toko isn’t. But on the other hand, she shares Toko’s unhealthy obsession with Byakuya, which manifests in wildly inappropriate, borderline absurd ways. It’s a fascinating dynamic, and it keeps you glued to the screen, not knowing what she’s going to do or say next.

//Despite being a literal serial killer, Genocide Jill is mostly played for laughs, and it works. Her maniacal cackling, over-the-top dialogue, and penchant for wild, inappropriate jokes add a bizarre layer of levity to an otherwise intense trial. She’ll pretend to drop a serious revelation, only to swerve into a punchline. It’s unhinged, but it fits the chaotic world of this franchise perfectly.

//And then there’s her self-proclaimed fujoshi tendencies, which take her over-the-top personality to new heights. Jill gleefully declares that she only kills cute boys who, and I quote, "turn her on, a detail so ludicrously specific that it’s hard not to laugh.

//Because how could anyone have guessed that Toko’s repressed, introverted personality would manifest in such an explosively cartoonish, sadomasochistic alter ego this way? You could have seen the half-serial killer twist coming, but NO WAY anyone thought it was gonna manifest like this.

//It’s the kind of twist that’s so outlandish it somehow works, and it gives this trial a unique flavor that no other case in the series quite matches.

//But then it gets MORE intense, because this leads into ANOTHER possibility.

//After Toko is outed to be GJ, the group quickly narrows their focus on her. Everyone becomes engrossed in debating whether Jill could be the culprit, citing her violent history and the eerie similarities between Chihiro’s murder and Jill’s MO.

//However, the evidence doesn't line up, and not only is Jill not the killer, but she eventually becomes one of the first game’s SURVIVORS!

//And this is where another key character in this case steps into the fray: Byakuya.

//I've been eluding to him a bit so far, but this is the case where Byakuya really comes front-and-center compared to the rest of the game, besides maybe Chapter 4. But while he's not exactly as compelling an antagonist as the future rivals in the series, the Affluant Progeny laid the groundwork for the type of character dynamic that Nagito and Kokichi would go on to take and run with.

//So far, Byakuya has been an arrogant thorn in everyone’s side, but it's here that he seizes an opportunity to step into the limelight. He was already a smug elitist, and the kind of guy you’d expect to demand five-star service during an apocalypse, but this case reveals a darker, more manipulative side.

//If Chapter 1 painted him as an insufferable know-it-all, Chapter 2 cements him as a grade-A sociopath. He pulls off actions so reprehensible that it’s a wonder he wasn’t voted off the proverbial island long before the game’s end.

//First of all, as I already said, Byakuya is the one who exposes Toko’s alter ego, Genocide Jill, to the rest of the group. And the only reason he knows the truth is because Toko TOLD him, and he actively and unashamedly goes against her wishes, and outs her.

//Does he do this out of concern for the group’s safety? Nope. Does he think it’ll help solve the murder? Not really. He does it purely to stroke his own ego, basking in the chaos that ensues.

//But wait, there’s more.

//When the group begins piecing together the crime scene, suspicion briefly turns toward Byakuya for a few reasons: the extension cord used to string up Chihiro’s body matched one seen in the library, a place Byakuya frequented, and the bloodstained message, "Blood Lust," mimicked Genocide Jill’s signature style, and Byakuya was the only one who read the Genocide Jack file, which described her specific methods.

At this point, you might think Byakuya is the killer...And that’s exactly what he wants you to think. The truth, however, is far worse.

//Byakuya isn’t the killer, but he did tamper with the crime scene in the most twisted way imaginable. After noticing the actual killer leaving the girl’s locker room, he discovered Chihiro’s body and decided to "spice things up." He staged the scene to implicate Genocide Jill, stringing up Chihiro’s body with the extension cord and scrawling Blood Lust on the wall in Chihiro’s blood.

//You might think what the hell he could possibly stand to gain by doing this, especially since one misstep means that EVERYONE dies, including Byakuya himself.

//Well, it turns out all of this was done not to protect himself or even to accuse someone else, but it was to make the killing game "more interesting" and to force Toko’s secret into the open. As well as to give him an idea of what kinds of minds he's up against.

//For context, earlier in this chapter, when everyone is trying to unite under one banner, Byakuya outright refuses, and practically BULLIES Chihiro for ever thinking that a sense of cameraderie could be found in the environment of a Killing Game. And throughout the game, before and after this, he is a cold, self-centered individual with a deeply reserved demeanor. His aloofness stems from an unshakable sense of superiority and an unyielding belief that most people are inherently beneath him.

//And while it's frustrating, this mindset complies PERFECTLY to what he talks about in his backstory during his Free Time Events. It really gives you the motivation to go out of your way to spend time with him, because it really goes into good detail at why Byakuya is so adamant to comply to the Killing Game the way it is meant to be played, at least until Chapter 4.

//Born into the prestigious Togami family, Byakuya was forced to compete against his siblings in a ruthless battle for succession. Only the most competent sibling would inherit the family name and fortune, while the rest were disowned and cut off financially, labeled as dead to the family.

//Growing up in this cutthroat environment shaped Byakuya into someone who views the world through a lens of "winners" and "losers." To him, life is a zero-sum game where cooperation is a weakness and emotional bonds are trivial distractions.

//Byakuya’s disdain for collaboration and his dismissal of others as insignificant are rooted in his belief that self-interest is the only true driving force behind human behavior. His upbringing not only honed his competitive edge but also left him with a deeply cynical view of relationships, which he regards as petty and unimportant. And he perfectly summarizes it in his own words:

"You're not about to claim she wouldn't kill a close friend, are you? You still don't get it, do you? The game we're playing here isn't so kind. Honeyed words like friendship don't matter here. What matters is outwitting the opponent, defeating them...Not a person alive would sacrifice themselves for another. In the end, we're all in it for ourselves."

//This mindset obviously comes back to bite him in Chapter 4, but we have already talked about that.

//What makes Byakuya so detestable here isn’t just the tampering itself, though that’s bad enough; it’s his cold, calculated reasoning and justification behind his actions.

//He doesn’t care about Chihiro’s dignity or the emotional toll on the group. To him, it’s all a game, a twisted experiment to see how far he can push his classmates before they break. He even admits he was aware that his meddling would make him a suspect, but he couldn’t resist the "fun" of stirring the pot.

//As interesting as he ends up being, and as much development as he goes through after this, this case solidifies Byakuya as one of the most despicable little fucks in the series. Not because he’s a killer, but because his actions reveal a complete lack of empathy. He doesn’t just view his classmates as beneath him; he treats them as pawns in his personal chess game, moving them around for his entertainment. It’s a chilling glimpse into this warped psyche he has, and a stark reminder of how dangerous unchecked arrogance can be.

//So while Nagito and Kokichi are more complex and arguably more compelling, Byakuya lays the groundwork for the unpredictable rival archetype. Love him or hate him, he makes this case unforgettable, and gives us plenty of reasons to hate him along the way.

//When the trial discussion begins to zero in on potential suspects, Byakuya’s overconfidence is momentarily disrupted, and Kyoko steps in to steer the investigation in a new direction. Her calm and incisive analysis introduces a revelation that not only reshapes the trial but also leaves an indelible mark on the game, and unlike Trial 1, REALLY defines how far this game is willing to go to catch you off guard.

//The build-up to this twist is handled with remarkable care, with every clue serving as a breadcrumb in a trail that keeps you engaged, guessing, and second-guessing. When the truth finally comes out, it’s both shocking and strangely fitting, a testament to the narrative’s ability to balance absurdity with depth.

//The lead-up to the twist begins with inconsistencies that don’t seem to add up, particularly regarding where the crime took place. Initially, it’s assumed the murder occurred in the girls’ locker room because that’s where Chihiro’s body was found. But as the discussion progresses, it’s revealed that the murder actually happened in the boys’ locker room, and the killer went to great lengths to swap the two rooms to obscure this fact.

//This revelation should theoretically narrow down the suspects, as only a boy could access the boys’ locker room due to the biometric security system that ensures nobody can enter the wrong room without being riddled with bullets. But then a new problem arises, because if Chihiro was a girl, as everyone believed, how could he have accessed the boys’ locker room?

//The contradiction hangs in the air, and tension builds as the trial teases out every angle. Then, in a moment that’s both jaw-dropping and comically over-the-top, the truth comes to light:

//Chihiro Fujisaki wasn’t a girl at all. He was a cross-dressing boy.

//And this revelation flips the entire trial, and everyone’s assumptions, on its head.

//This twist lands perfectly for a variety of reasons. For one, it’s not a sudden, out-of-nowhere bombshell, but it's not hinted at enough to be blatantly obvious. The game spends time setting up the groundwork with subtle hints, such as Chihiro’s soft-spoken nature and reluctance to use the locker rooms. These details, while easy to overlook on a first playthrough, become glaringly significant in hindsight. As ridiculous as the notion is, given how meek and feminine Chihiro always came across, it doesn’t feel forced or contrived because it’s woven into the fabric of the narrative from the beginning, making the reveal not just surprising but satisfying.

//What makes this moment even more impactful is its emotional depth. Chihiro’s decision to present as a girl wasn’t just a quirky personality trait or a superficial gimmick. It was rooted in years of pain and self-doubt.

//Monokuma reveals post-trial that as a child, Chihiro was relentlessly bullied for being weak and not living up to societal expectations of masculinity. Dressing as a girl was his way of escaping that ridicule, a shield against the harsh judgments of others.

//But this choice came with its own set of challenges, fostering a deep inferiority complex. Chihiro wanted to be seen as strong and capable, but he felt trapped, unable to reconcile his true self with the persona he had created to protect himself.

//This internal struggle adds a layer of tragedy to Chihiro’s story and elevates the twist from a mere plot device to a poignant exploration of identity and self-worth.

//It also contextualizes his actions leading up to his death. Instead of succumbing to Monokuma’s motive and resorting to murder, Chihiro chose a path of self-improvement. He began training in secret, both physically and mentally, determined to grow stronger and eventually share his truth with the world on his own terms. This decision, born of courage and hope, ultimately led him to confide in the killer, tragically sealing his fate.

//However, while the emotional resonance of this twist is undeniable, it’s not without its flaws. While the initial shock from the cast feels natural, their quick acceptance of Chihiro’s true identity comes across as a bit too tidy. Almost immediately, they begin referring to Chihiro as male, seamlessly integrating this revelation into their discussions as if it were a minor detail rather than a groundbreaking shift in their understanding of their classmate.

//While this efficiency keeps the trial moving at a brisk pace, it sacrifices some of the nuance and emotional complexity that such a revelation would realistically entail. Even for a group grappling with life-and-death stakes, this level of instant adjustment feels a bit implausible.

//The trope of cross-dressing characters is not uncommon in early 2000s anime, so this twist fits comfortably within the genre’s conventions. However, what sets it apart is the depth of emotion and thoughtfulness behind its execution.

//Chihiro’s struggles are treated with a surprising amount of sensitivity for a series known for its over-the-top antics. The twist isn’t just a shocking moment for the sake of drama, but it also ties directly into the themes of self-identity, resilience, and the impact of societal expectations.

//Moreover, it segues seamlessly into the motives and circumstances of the case, adding layers of complexity to both the mystery and the character dynamics.

//I feel like I say that a lot, but it's true.

//And then the conclusion of this trial comes about as a result of a neat little gambit from Kyoko, that finally nails down the killer, with all the facts on the table serving to place them under the guilty spotlight. The sequence is very dramatic, and very well structured.

//Kyoko skillfully draws the killer into a trap by zeroing in on a critical detail: Chihiro’s tracksuit. She highlights its specific color, implying that Chihiro had carefully chosen it for a planned training session with someone who would be wearing a matching outfit. This subtle nudge prompts everyone to recall their own tracksuit colors, and it’s here that Mondo Owada unknowingly seals his fate.

//In a clumsy attempt to prove his innocence, he eagerly states that his tracksuit was black, while Chihiro’s was blue, thinking this distinction would exonerate him. The problem? Celeste had testified earlier that she saw Chihiro carrying a tracksuit in a duffle bag but never mentioned its color.

//For Mondo to know Chihiro’s tracksuit was blue, he would’ve needed to see it firsthand at the time of the murder. Celeste confirms this detail, further tightening the noose around Mondo as she reiterates her sighting of the blue tracksuit. Taka, ever eager to contribute, recalls seeing the tracksuit and bag during the investigation, but Kyoko quickly corrects him, noting that both had been disposed of by then, leaving no chance for Mondo to craft a plausible alibi.

//Cornered, Mondo fumbles for an explanation, claiming that he happened to see Chihiro carrying the blue tracksuit as they crossed paths. But this excuse falls apart when Makoto recalls Celeste’s testimony: Chihiro had deliberately stuffed the tracksuit entirely into the duffle bag, ensuring it wasn’t visible. Mondo’s story, already thin, collapses under the weight of this contradiction, making it clear he’s lying.

//Adding to the suspicion, Kyoko astutely points out that Mondo referred to Chihiro as "dude" earlier in the trial, rather than "chick." This subtle slip indicated Mondo knew about Chihiro’s true gender, something only the killer could have known at this point. While this detail alone isn’t enough to definitively convict Mondo, it deepens Kyoko’s suspicions and primes the rest of the class for the final pieces of evidence.

//At this critical juncture, Hifumi unexpectedly steps in with a crucial revelation: he found a broken E-Handbook in the sauna. Since Chihiro’s E-Handbook was missing from the crime scene, it’s reasonable to suspect the broken one belonged to him.

//Here’s where things get interesting. Mondo had recently competed in a grueling sauna endurance contest with Taka, during which he unknowingly left his E-Handbook in his pocket. The intense heat damaged the device, inadvertently teaching Mondo about its weakness. Armed with this knowledge, Mondo destroyed Chihiro’s E-Handbook after the murder to cover his tracks. To avoid suspicion, he replaced his broken E-Handbook with Leon’s, knowing Leon couldn’t object due to being, well, dead.

//Makoto suggests a simple test to confirm this: everyone shows their E-Handbooks. But at this point, Mondo has no way out. Revealing his E-Handbook would expose the switch, proving he had Leon’s and confirming his role in the crime, so, realizing he’s cornered, Mondo finally breaks down and confesses to killing Chihiro. The students vote unanimously to convict him, sealing his fate.

//Now...Chihiro alone is already carrying this case with how brilliant a character he is. However, I would go the extra mile and say that Mondo is one of the most criminally underrated characters in the Danganronpa series, and if nothing else, definitely so amongst the killers of each game.

//What truly stands out about Mondo, and this case in particular, is his motive. Unlike many other killers in the series, Mondo didn’t kill to protect his secret or out of malicious intent. Instead, his actions stemmed from a complex mix of jealousy, frustration, emotional vulnerability, and above all, deep-rooted trauma.

//The full circumstances are as follows: Mondo grew up idolizing his older brother, Daiya, who played a pivotal role in shaping him into the person he would become. Raised with the values of strength and resilience, Mondo was introduced to the world of biking at a young age when Daiya invited him to join The Crazy Diamonds, their legendary biker gang. Inspired by his brother's example, Mondo dedicated himself to biking and helped solidify the gang’s reputation as one of the most feared and respected in Japan. Together, the siblings earned the moniker "The Diamond Brothers," becoming a household name in the underground biker community.

//Despite his growing skills and reputation, Mondo constantly lived in Daiya's shadow. Early in his riding career, he struggled to keep up, often finding himself at the back of the pack. On one such occasion, his inexperience led to an encounter with the police that caused chaos for the group. But Mondo refused to let his setbacks define him. Through perseverance and sheer determination, he rose through the ranks and eventually became a force to be reckoned with in his own right.

//Mondo’s defining moment came when Daiya decided it was time to retire and pass the leadership of The Crazy Diamonds to him. The gang members, however, doubted Mondo’s ability to fill his brother’s shoes, so Mondo issued a challenge to Daiya: a high-stakes race to prove he was worthy of the role.

//Tragically, the race ended in disaster. During the heated competition, Mondo recklessly drove into oncoming traffic. In a split-second act of selflessness, Daiya pushed Mondo’s motorcycle aside, saving his younger brother but sacrificing himself in a fatal collision with another vehicle.

//Devastated by his brother’s death, Mondo was consumed by guilt, but he honored Daiya’s dying wish. To lead The Crazy Diamonds and never blame himself for the accident. Unable to admit the truth, Mondo told the gang nothing of his involvement in Daiya’s death. Instead, he channeled his grief into maintaining The Crazy Diamonds as Japan’s most formidable biker gang, carrying on his brother’s legacy while hiding the burden of his secret.

//Fast forward to the killing game, where Monokuma introduced his second motive; revealing each participant’s darkest secret. Mondo’s envelope contained the devastating confession, that Mondo was the cause of death for his brother.

//This revelation terrified Mondo. The very foundation of his identity and leadership, the image of strength and reliability, was built on a lie. If the truth were exposed, not only would his reputation crumble, but it could also destroy The Crazy Diamonds, breaking the pact he’d made with Daiya to keep the gang intact.

//Meanwhile, Chihiro, faced with the same motive, reacted differently. Instead of succumbing to fear, Chihiro became determined to grow stronger and confront his own insecurities. Inspired by Mondo’s seemingly unshakable persona, Chihiro decided to confide his secret in him, believing Mondo could understand and provide guidance. Chihiro invited Mondo to train with him in the gym, hoping to take the first step toward self-improvement.

//In the boys’ locker room, Chihiro revealed his truth: that he was a boy who had been pretending to be a girl to avoid being bullied for his perceived weakness. He explained his desire to overcome his fears and grow stronger, no matter the challenges.

//However, Mondo, already under immense pressure from Monokuma’s threat, was blindsided by the revelation. Hearing Chihiro’s confession sparked a storm of emotions in Mondo. Jealousy, self-loathing, and anger surged as he grappled with the realization that Chihiro, someone he had viewed as weak, possessed a level of emotional strength and courage that Mondo lacked.

//Chihiro, a small and seemingly fragile boy who dressed as a girl to avoid ridicule, found the courage to confide his secret in Mondo. For someone like Mondo, built on a foundation of machismo, loyalty, and an obsession with appearing strong, this moment was earth-shattering.

//Mondo, who had spent his life cultivating an image of toughness, now felt exposed. The weight of his survivor’s guilt and the constant fear of his secret being uncovered made him feel weaker than ever. Chihiro’s bravery only magnified Mondo’s insecurities, leading to a boiling point where his envy turned into uncontrollable rage.

//In an impulsive and tragic act, Mondo struck Chihiro in the head with a dumbbell, killing him. Thus, what began as a moment of admiration and connection turned into one of the most devastating events of the killing game..a senseless murder fueled by jealousy, guilt, and the crushing weight of unspoken truths.

//Mondo’s actions are unforgivable, but what makes his character compelling is the sheer depth of his remorse over this. He doesn’t fit the mold of the cold-blooded killer or the manipulative mastermind.

//Instead, Mondo is consumed by guilt. His reaction throughout the trial is one of disbelief and self-loathing, as though he can’t come to terms with the fact that he’s capable of such a thing. And that regret alone sets him apart from every other killer in the series.

//In Danganronpa, murderers often fall into four broad categories: those who kill for selfish gain (like Celeste or Teruteru), cold-blooded killers who kill out of sociopathy (like Kiyo or Mikan), those manipulated into killing (like Gonta or Chiaki), and those with motives that, while tragic, are grounded in reason (like Gundham or Satsuki).

//Mondo, however, occupies a unique space. He is not an unwilling pawn, nor does he commit murder for a calculated purpose. Instead, his crime is an impulsive, emotionally charged act that he makes ABUNDANTLY CLEAR that he wishes to HIGH HEAVEN that he could undo.

//Mondo is the first killer in the series to express genuine guilt over his actions instead of trying and failing to justify them. But to this day, he's the only killer who you can truly tell he wants nothing more than to take it back, but tragically knows that he's already fucked himself over, and there's only one path left for him.

//Other killers in Danganronpa show remorse, but never outright condemn themselves for their actions, because a lot of them still stand by their actions, and that their ends justfied their means. Not Mondo.

//In fact, Mondo is the only killer in the first game who confesses to his crime before the vote. That moment, where he admits to the murder, is both a gut-punch and a testament to his character. It highlights the tragedy of the case. He didn’t want to be a killer, and yet he became one.

//This is highlighted by poor Taka's reaction, starting a trauma train for him before 1-3 completely wastes it. Taka, at this point in the game, is Mondo's arch-rival turned best friend and blood brother. He's the one who brings most of the heartache to the trial, because he's so adamant against the idea that Mondo could be the killer, and he's also directly tied to the piece of evidence that ultimately incriminates him. His breakdown reflects on the player, and it makes everything even more gutting.

//Adding yet nother layer of poignancy to Mondo’s character is Kyoko’s post-trial insight. She speculates that Mondo’s decision to switch the boys’ and girls’ locker rooms wasn’t solely about covering his tracks. Instead, it was a last-ditch effort to protect Chihiro’s secret for as long as possible. This act, though misguided, shows a glimmer of the kindness and respect Mondo had for Chihiro, even after what he’d done. It wasn’t enough to erase his guilt, but it underscores the depth of his regret and his desire to honor Chihiro in some way.

//What makes this situation even more heart-wrenching is the context, and reflecting on what you actually just went through after the trial. Mondo is not just a rough, gruff biker with a violent streak. Beneath his tough exterior, he has a heart of gold, as evidenced by his genuine friendship with Taka, the honor student. Their bond is one of the most endearing parts of the early game, built on mutual respect despite their vastly different personalities. To see someone like Mondo, who was capable of such strong friendships and who valued loyalty above all, commit this crime is a tragic twist.

//Meanwhile, Byakuya, who shamelessly tampered with the crime scene to boost his own ego, and Genocide Jill, a literal serial killer, serve as red herrings in this case, and survive not just past this trial, but both make it to the end of the game. The irony is almost painful: the person who seemed most trustworthy, someone who built a meaningful connection, ends up being the culprit.

//The emotional weight of this case easily rivals the infamous suicide case later in the game. Mondo’s crime wasn’t premeditated, nor was it born of pure malice. It was the result of a moment of vulnerability and insecurity, and that’s what makes it so impactful.

//You’re left not just grieving for Chihiro but also for Mondo, who is a victim of his own flawed sense of strength and masculinity. It’s a deeply human tragedy, and that’s what makes this case one of the most memorable in the series.

//And fuck me, I wish more people appreciated him.

//That's basically the majority of what I have to say on the trial, but I want to end this analysis by making a statement. Because this is heavily associated with this trial, and even though I really don't want to, I need to cover it, or else some people might come after me.

//This trial is fantastic. But in recent times, when I've been looking at other reviews for reference, I can't help but notice that some people really don't like this trial, and think that narratively, it's one of the worst in the series.

//And there's only one or two reasons for that, and they're all the same. And it pisses me the fuck off, because it reminds me that people are so quick to jump on this type of stuff, and it makes them miss what is actually genuinely amazing writing, mystery-solving, and everything the Danganronpa series stands for.

//Alright...here goes...

//This chapter, aptly named "Boys' Life of Despair," remains one of the most controversial in the series, largely due to its handling of Chihiro's gender identity and Genocide Jill’s characterization and how that reflects back on D.I.D. as a condition.

//While the case delves into deep themes such as guilt, weakness, and societal expectations, lots of people, from what I have seen, have criticized how these topics are presented. The controversy stems from whether the game misrepresents or trivializes sensitive issues such as transgender identity and mental health.

//Quite a significant number of people interpreted Chihiro's story as a poorly executed representation of transgender identity. Although the game never explicitly states that Chihiro identifies as transgender, the setup inadvertently evokes real-world experiences of gender dysphoria and societal pressures faced by transgender individuals.

//Critics argue that the game's framing treats Chihiro’s gender presentation as a plot twist rather than a nuanced exploration of identity. The reveal is pivotal to the case but comes across as reductive, reducing Chihiro’s complex internal struggles to a mere "shock factor" moment.

//Moreover, the resolution of Chihiro’s arc is problematic for some. Chihiro is framed as wanting to become “stronger” by embracing traditional masculinity, which implies that their perceived weakness is tied to their feminine appearance. Which comes across as dismissive of the broader spectrum of gender identity and expression, and for many, feels like the narrative missed an opportunity to explore Chihiro’s courage in defying societal norms rather than portraying their femininity as a flaw to be corrected.

//As for Jill, she's obviously a standout character in the series for a long time even after this trial, but her portrayal as a comic relief character often veers into caricature, with exaggerated behaviors and dialogue that reduce her mental health condition to a punchline. And that's ignoring the fact that she's a deranged psychopath.

//For many, this feels insensitive, as it reinforces harmful stereotypes about people with split-personalities being dangerous or unstable, and not as people who might genuinely need help, or suffering under a mental condition that is often born of traumatic incidents, and also that most people have no control over.

//The comedic tone surrounding Jill contrasts sharply with the serious nature of D.I.D, leaving many feeling that the game trivializes the disorder. This portrayal has sparked debates about whether the developers intended for Genocide Jill to be a satirical character or simply misunderstood the nuances of mental health representation. Regardless of intent, the character has been widely regarded as an inaccurate and harmful depiction of DID, leading to further scrutiny of the series' approach to complex psychological topics.

//Now...*sigh* personally, I do think these concerns are valid. Especially the one's with Jill. And people are free to debate the sexualities and gender identity of characters all they want; that's the entire fucking point of Fandom.

//And as your stereotypical cisgendered white man, who has no sway in these discussions as he cannot speak from a trans person perspective, please allow me to explain how I interpreted it, and what I genuinely believe was the intended effect, and hopefully, it will make a bit more sense.

//Danganronpa, as a series full of a variety of interesting characters, is basically BUILT on, and relies VERY HEAVILY on stereotypes. Particularly the first game's cast, because all of them are based on a well-known Japanese characterization stereotype.

//All of which have been used in anime and manga series before, quite a majority of them in one's with school settings.

//Barring Chihiro, here's the list:

Makoto is the "Everyman Protagonist." He represents the typical Japanese high school student with no standout qualities, that is most commonly seen in the position of the main character, as a means of making them more relateable to a general audience. His luck reflects the idea of fortune favoring the ordinary, a common theme in Japanese storytelling. Other examples for this archetype include Shinji Ikari (Neon Genesis Evangelion) and Tsuna Sawada (Katekyo Hitman Reborn!)

Kyoko is the Kuudere, i.e. the cool, calm, and collected one. She embodies the quiet, mysterious type who slowly reveals a more emotional and caring side. This is a common archetype in Japanese fiction, particularly for female leads in romance or crime stories. Other examples include Rei Ayanami (Neon Genesis Evangelion), Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan), and C.C. (Code Geass).

Byakuya is the Elite Snob. He represents the privileged, highly educated upper class with a sense of superiority, and his arrogance reflects the stereotypical "rich heir" character in Japanese media. Other examples include Seto Kaiba (Yu-Gi-Oh!) and Gilgamesh (Fate series)

Toko, and by extension Jill, are the "Mojo Girl." This term came from モテない女 (motenai jo) meaning unpopular girl, shortened to モ女 (mojo). In short, Toko is the classic "weird girl" stereotype, socially awkward and self-deprecating. Her Genocide Jack persona exaggerates the duality often seen in overworked or mentally strained artists. Tomoko Kuroki (Watamote) is a prime example of this.

Hina is the Genki Girl, meaning she's the energetic, positive, upbeat female among the cast. Though she goes through a lot od ups and downs, she' generally has a cheerful and optimistic personality that aligns with the "genki girl" archetype, a common depiction of athletic and lively female characters in Japanese media. Yui Hirasawa (K-On!), Asuka Langley Soryu (Neon Genesis Evangelion), and Misaka Mikoto (A Certain Scientific Railgun) are other examples.

Sakura is the Gentle Giant. Her intimidating appearance contrasts with her noble and compassionate personality, playing on themes of inner versus outer strength. A prominent example of this on other media is actually her Death Battle opponent, Jonathan Joestar (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure).

Celeste is, obviously, the Gothic Lolita, but she also subtly plays the role of the mysterious foreiner despite being fully Japanese, since she fakes having an accent, and has a very French fake name. Celeste represents the "exotic" and enigmatic character often portrayed in Japanese fiction, and her gothic fashion and affected mannerisms tie into the lolita subculture. Other examples include Kuroneko (Oreimo), Beatrice (Umineko), and Elizabeth (Black Butler).

Mondo is the Yankii, or the Delinquent. He embodies the stereotypical Japanese high-school thug, with a hot temper, loyalty to his friends, and a love for his motorbike. His pompadour hairstyle is a hallmark of the yankii style. Ryuko Matoi (Kill la Kill), and Yusuke Urameshi (Yu Yu Hakusho) are other examples.

Hifumi is, quite obviously, the Otaku. Hifumi is a very blatant parody of the "hardcore geek" stereotype, obsessed with anime, manga, and fan culture. His exaggerated behavior and delusions about 2D characters highlight the comedic portrayal of this archetype. Daru (Steins;Gate) is another perfect example of this, almost exactly the same sterotype application as Hifumi.

Sayaka is the Popular Girl/School Idol, as well as representing the Japanese idol industry, with her cheerful demeanor and "pure" image masking the pressure and ruthlessness behind the scenes. Others in this role include Minori Kushieda (Toradora!), Yuna (Kakegurui), and a more recent example, Aira Shiratori (Dandadan).

Leon is the Lazy Jock character that reflects the stereotype of young athletes who excel in sports but secretly dream of pursuing a more "cool" career, like being a musician in his case. Ryoma from V3 also falls under this stereotype, though his story is a darker subversion of it.

Taka is the uptright Honor Student. He embodies the classic "serious student" archetype, obsessed with rules, discipline, and success. His personality mirrors the high-achieving but socially awkward individuals found in competitive academic environments, and he's none for being a stickler, and very loud in getting his points across. Tenya Iida (My Hero Academia) is an almost one-for-one identical representation of this.

Hiro is a caricature of the carefree, irresponsible fortune-teller/spiritualist, often seen as unreliable or comically inept in Japanese media. His archetype isn't as common, but Isshin Kurosaki (Bleach), as a comedic father figure with a flair for spiritualism, also falls under this umbrella.

Junko/Mukuro when she's disguised as Junko, evil antics aside, is the Gyaru, AKA, "Gal." They embody the stereotype of a trendy girl, usually one who dyes their hair blond, with a keen focus on fashion, appearances, and everything trendy. More famous examples are Marin Kitagawa (Dress-Up Darling), Minami Fuyuki (Hokkaido Gals Are Super Adorable), and Yukana Yame (My First Girlfriend is a Gal)

//Every Danganronpa character is some kind of trend/stereotype among these lines taken to the extreme, and in the case of Chihiro, he is a parody of "Otokonoko"

//Otokonoko, a Japanese term that translates roughly to "boy-girl" or "male girl," refers to a genre of crossdressing or gender expression where a male adopts traditionally feminine clothing, behaviors, and aesthetics. Often portrayed in manga, anime, and other forms of media, Otokonoko characters may appear as boys but present themselves in a way that emphasize femininity, sometimes to the point of resembling girls, though their gender identity typically remains male.

//In Otokonoko-themed works, the focus is usually on the character's appearance and performance of femininity, which can range from subtle to exaggerated. The genre can be used for comedic purposes, creating moments of confusion or surprise when others misperceive the character’s gender. While Otokonoko is sometimes used to depict male characters who are intentionally trying to deceive others about their gender, it can also highlight the character's internal struggles or desires to express themselves outside of traditional gender expectations.

//This ^^^

//THIS is what Chihiro is!

//He's not a statement on transgenderism, he is a PARODY of OTOKONOKO.

//A parody character in a game FULL of PARODY CHARACTERS.

//Chihiro’s decision to cross-dress and present as a girl stems not from a desire to transition or live as a woman, but from a deep-seated need to escape the societal pressures that define strength and masculinity. By a desire to hide his perceived weakness and to shield himself from the bullying he endured due to his fragile appearance and personality.

//His gender presentation is a coping mechanism, not an expression of gender identity.

//The experience of being transgender is rooted in a fundamental disconnect between one’s assigned gender at birth and their gender identity. For transgender individuals, transitioning is often a path to aligning their physical presentation with their internal sense of self, and it is a journey that involves a complex relationship with their gender, society, and body.

//For example, Four Kaiden was a boy at birth, and decided they wanted to be a girl instead. Kouji Ito was a girl at birth, and decided he wanted to be a boy instead.

//Chihiro Fujisaki was a boy and birth and decided he wanted to be a boy. But everyone around him kept telling him that he "wasn't very manly" so he PRETENDED he wasn't a boy so people would get off his case.

//And it's not something he ENJOYED doing.

//Chihiro’s arc doesn’t align with this process, as he’s not attempting to express a different gender identity but rather to adopt an appearance that matches the gender that he CURRENTLY identifies as.

//People are free to headcanon and portray Chihiro as trans all they want, I refuse to stop them, but CANONICALLY, Chihiro aims to be the boy that he was born as, and he himself IDENTIFIES as male, even though he pretends to be female. This is a key distinction.

//I do understand where the confusion and agitation comes from, though. Chihiro’s arc is still an interesting and powerful exploration of self-perception, insecurity, and societal pressures, particularly those related to gender.

//Chihiro's cross-dressing is a response to the unrealistic standards of strength and masculinity that are imposed upon him by both society and his own internalized beliefs. Chihiro believes that by dressing as a girl, he can escape being labeled as weak and fragile, two qualities that are traditionally deemed "unmanly" in his environment.

//What makes Chihiro’s arc compelling is not the twist about his gender, but the deeper emotional struggle he faces in coming to terms with his own self-worth. His internal conflict revolves around the desire to be strong, but not in a way that feels authentic to him. Rather than embrace traditional masculinity, he wants to cultivate his own strength, free from the narrow confines of gendered expectations.

//This isn't supposed to CONCIDE with the larger theme of toxic masculinity, it's supposed to highlight how the idea often forces individuals, particularly men, to suppress their vulnerabilities and present a facade of unyielding strength.

//If you think otherwise, I need to ask...Is Mondo just a NON-FACTOR in this equation to you?

//Mondo is LITERALLY THE MASCULINE CHARACTER. And in this case, his innate need to preserve that masculinity, and hide his weaknesses, makes him KILL SOMEONE!

//In what way was this trial framed to make you think you were supposed to APPROVE of that!?

//For me, when I'm looking back on it, the actual intent behind Chihiro’s character arc seems to be a narrative about self-improvement and the painful journey toward personal growth. Chihiro’s struggle with his self-image, and his eventual attempt to confide in Mondo, is about learning to face his fears and embrace his vulnerabilities rather than hide them behind a facade. His goal is not to fit into a specific gender role, but to find his own sense of strength and courage, free from the fear of judgment. In this way, his arc is less about gender identity and more about the universal struggle of reconciling one’s inner self with societal expectations.

//When Chihiro reveals his secret to Mondo, he is expressing a desire to be stronger, not by becoming someone he is not, but by confronting his fears and embracing who he truly is, even if that means appearing weak in others' eyes. This theme is supposed to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with the weight of societal expectations, regardless of their gender identity, and Chihiro’s tragic end underscores the dangers of not being able to live authentically and the emotional toll that repression can take on a person.

//As someone who has seen Kazutaka Kodaka's ways on viewing things, I know for a fact that he is not transphobic, homophobic, or anything of that ilk. But it's not uncommon for him to present a deep idea in his work, and for it to come across in an absolutely implosive way that he didn't intend (V3-6).

/I personally think his intent in Chihiro’s arc seems to have been to portray the complexity of self-doubt and the journey toward personal growth. The twist about Chihiro’s gender serves as a plot device to challenge the assumptions of the other characters and to force them, and the player, to reconsider their preconceived notions about identity and strength.

//The issue at hand, therefire, is that the execution of this plot twist has been criticized for its clumsy handling of gender identity, especially in a modern world where transgender representation in media is often misrepresented or sensationalized.

//So all in all, rather than reflecting the experience of a transgender person, Chihiro’s arc is a story about confronting one’s weaknesses, internalized insecurities, and the difficulty of being true to oneself in a world that demands conformity. The twist regarding his gender is not meant to diminish the significance of gender identity but rather to highlight the emotional journey of someone who is grappling with their own concept of masculinity and strength. It’s about understanding that true strength comes not from hiding behind a facade but from embracing one’s vulnerabilities and learning to grow from them.

//It's just...important to keep in mind.

//As for Genocide Jill, she's...honestly a little harder to defend. But I'm gonna try.

//Genocide Jill is introduced as Toko Fukawa’s alternate personality, a violent and sadistic persona that emerges under specific conditions, such as extreme emotional distress or stress. Her dual personality is a key plot device that serves to explore the darker sides of Toko’s psyche, specifically her repressed desires and her history of abuse and trauma.

//Unlike a simplistic portrayal of DID, Danganronpa uses Genocide Jill to highlight the complexities of how trauma and emotional pain can manifest in different ways. Her violent persona is not something that Toko consciously chooses; it is a coping mechanism for dealing with her unresolved trauma and feelings of powerlessness.

//The reason why this is so hard to defend is that the concerns are extremely valid. Genocide Jill is not a clinical, nor is it an accurate, portrayal of D.I.D.

//But at the same time, it's not really trying to be. Not at all.

//Remember what I said about how the whole point of the Danganronpa characters is that they are comically exaggerated examples of typical Japanese stereotypes. Jill is a comically exaggerated example of D.I.D and mental fractures, in a way that rubs people the wrong way, but if you think about it, the basic premise, and how it comes about, is STILL THERE.

//Dissociative Identity Disorder is often seen as a response to trauma, particularly in cases of extreme abuse or neglect. In the case of Toko, Jill is a manifestation of the trauma she endured in her past thanks to the horrible childhood she had full of endless abuse and pain. The violent persona might represent an aspect of her psyche that is trying to reclaim power in a world where she otherwise feels completely weak and powerless.

//And people with D.I.D, while many are able to live with it, often struggle with different aspects of their personalities or identities that emerge in response to past trauma. Especially because they're not always in control of them.

//While Jill's violent outbursts and actions are extreme, her character adds complexity to the narrative by highlighting the ways in which trauma can affect someone’s behavior and their relationships with others. Her violent personality emerges in response to moments of vulnerability, and her relationship with Toko is crucial in showing how trauma can fracture an individual’s identity.

//Toko, who is initially ashamed and horrified by her other half, comes to accept that her alternate personality is part of who she is by the time Ultra Despair Girls comes around. This internal struggle and eventual acceptance reflect the ongoing process of reconciling with trauma and learning to navigate its effects on one’s sense of self.

//What’s significant is that, unlike many other characters who are defined by their extreme personalities, Toko's journey with Genocide Jill offers a more nuanced exploration of internal conflict.

//As the game/series progresses, Toko is never portrayed simply as "weak" or "messed up" because of her disorder; she is shown as a complex character who is learning to accept and integrate different aspects of herself. And even after Genocide Jack joins their group, as hard as it is to get used to her, nobody outright tries to keep themselves away from Toko because of her condition, as much as Toko believes they are.

//While Genocide Jill may have a sadistic personality, Toko is not solely defined by her violent alter ego; she is a multifaceted individual who struggles with vulnerability, fear, and self-worth. Making her more than just some mocking caricature.

//The criticism that Danganronpa makes a mockery of D.I.D comes primarily from the way Genocide Jill is portrayed as a comedic and exaggerated character, as well as ridiculous concept of a serial murderer.

//However, the key thing to note is that the game doesn’t try to provide a realistic depiction of DID. It’s using the condition as a plot device to further explore the darker and more humorous elements of the narrative.

//Obviously, that's not great, in and of itself, but Danganronpa is LITERALLY a Black Comedy game, a genre that very often involves absurd characters, exaggerated personalities, completely flippant portayals of mental unrest, and over-the-top situations.

//Jill’s larger-than-life nature fits into this tone, and her violent behavior is often played for laughs in the context of the absurd world of this game series.

//And that's really all I have to say about that. Again, believe what you want to believe, and think about it however you wish, but please, do not let these aspects take away from the sheer brilliance of this trial, because there are reasons for all of this.

//In conclusion, Game 1 Case 2 is a gripping and emotional rollercoaster that explores the complexities of identity, guilt, and trauma. While the portrayal of Chihiro's gender and Genocide Jill's DID may be controversial, these elements contribute to the larger narrative of fractured identities and the dark consequences of emotional struggles.

//Mondo's tragic motive, driven by a mix of jealousy and trauma, adds layers of depth to his character, turning him from a straightforward antagonist into one of the most remorseful killers in the series.

//And I love this case to death because of the way it stands out for its exploration of vulnerability, shame, and the high cost of secrets, making it a pivotal moment in the game's emotional journey.

//And with that, we have two more left...So what will be our runner up?

[sherlock-is-ace]

the imposter syndrome i feel every time i even slightly think i might be autistic is insane, specially for a person who highly relates to the lived experiences of people who are professionally diagnosed.

Like I was just watching this one youtuber, and she was talking about very specific examples in her life and childhood where she saw autistic traits that made her realize she was autistic and then seek a diagnosis and then get one, and everything she was saying was like she was describing my life! But yeah no, I can't be autistic tho

[chaoswillcalmusdown]

i feel like everyone's watching the bear s2 hating claire meanwhile i'm here like 'hmmmmm interesting that carmy is trying to have a normal relationship with a girl who def knew michael and reminds him of a life 'before' shit happened and when things were nice and easy'

[mechawolfie]

........how do u even Know if u "like" someone? is it a feeling you follow? or is it a decision u make? & is the only reason I'm asking this question bc my aroace ass just completely can't understand the concept of a "crush"??

[eskumii]

soft yandere!genin!sasuke uchiha x reader hcs

TITLE: " BAD ROMANCE " — navi. — read part two.

A/N: i'm clearing out my drafts ,, was in a huge naruto phase when i started this blog!

☆ genin sasuke is pretty mean. he doesn't notice you for your looks, personality, or even your prowess as a young kunoichi. you're just... you. in which, you don't cling to him like sakura does, and you aren't delusional like ino is. you're just okay at first, and there's not much he can go off of when he never really interacts with you. it's nothing personal, really.

☆ although sasuke is typically not a stranger to the prospect of romance, the reason why he doesn't indulge is simply because he fails to understand what romance is. if sasuke is anything, he's aware; of his surroundings, the people in it, and the turmoil that churns inside of him. the more he loves, the more he'll eventually hate, so he gathers that there's no room for it in his life. it's his curse to bear.

☆ genin sasuke would eventually notice you after being placed on team seven together, of course. you're pretty hard to ignore from thereon. in between the bouts of sakura clobbering him and naruto screaming in his face, his eyes are on you. both naruto and sakura wear the extent of their capabilities on their sleeves, but you're hard to read and that intrigues sasuke.

☆ it's not until much later that sasuke notices his feelings for you are much different than before. after all the trouble you've been through together (near death experiences & the dreadful antics of naruto), he feels like he's finally got a foothold on what it is that makes you so interesting. he's not a moron—yes, it would appear that he does like you beyond the "like" that he holds for the rest of team seven. however, it's such a foreign feeling that he's not even sure how to handle it, being that he's never had to deal with it before. does he tell you? does he not? would you even feel the same?

☆ in the end, sasuke shows his fondness for you in more subtle ways. it's not really his style to outright confess. sometimes he'll ask you to spar with him (alone, which he stresses), or he'll happen to have a "spare" tomato (or onigiri, if you don't like tomatoes) on him when you complain about being hungry during missions. if you get ambushed by rogue ninja on a mission, he'll instinctively step in front of you, or if you're out of kunai he'll lend you a couple of his—things like that. he's quite thoughtful when he wants to be.

☆ even under sasuke's merciful tolerance of you, you're not off-limits when it comes to his biting insults and sarcastic comments. normally he doesn't speak much but with you he becomes rather talkative, if you can even call it that. when someone else tries to butt in, sasuke's brooding and murderous glares scare them away. they should really know better than to talk to you when he's around.

☆ sakura obviously hates that you've suddenly become the apple of sasuke's eye when she's been vying after him since their early days at the academy. you're not even that pretty, honestly. but any attempt to sabotage you or make you look like a fool in front of sasuke is thwarted... by sasuke. he always thought of sakura like a whining gnat in his ear so it's amusing to see her cry when he blatantly ignores her for messing with you.

☆ when sasuke leaves the village, you're the first person he visits beforehand. you're asleep but that's just fine; actually, it's perfect because you don't see how he gently caresses your hair and how he gives you a kiss on your forehead. you don't hear him when he finally admits that he likes you. loves you, even. you don't hear him when he says he wishes he could take you with him.

☆ but don't worry, he'll be back for you...

[auroreliis]

what if reader had k*lled someone before and the batfam (yandere) dis not know like «I dont need your damn protection» reader said to the batfam «but the world is so dangerous out there and your just a baby» the batfam said to reader « B!TCH I have k*lled someone the f you mean im a baby?!?» the batfam with horrified expresion «WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!»

That last little part is a funny little over dramatic way it might go.

Oh, you are COOKED. (Do pardon my use of brainrot language...)

CW: mentions of murder...obviously

The first thing they do is isolate you in a room and keep you there for a while until they figure out what to do with you (and so you can think about what you've done).

What happens next? Therapy sessions, which they all agreed on.

Don't worry, you will tell them everything, specifically Bruce, since he's the one carrying out the therapy sessions.

"Why did you kill that person?"

"How do you feel about it now?"

"Do you regret it?"

"How do you feel after our conversation?"

He pities the person you ended up killing and feels a little disappointed. A life was taken by you, an innocent person's life. He didn't raise you like this, did he...?

However, he also pities you. Unless you are trained to kill someone, it breaks you. He's seen it so many times, people commiting murders and then panicking, breaking down, because they couldn't live with the consequences of their actions.

You're a mere civilian, how could you ever have been exposed to that kind of environment? How could he let this happen? No, it is his fault for waiting so long before saving you from the world. He will teach you why it's wrong. He will make sure you heal and never take another life again. After all, it is his job as your father to guide you in life.

That's right, the only reason you could've done it is because you didn't know any better. You are a mere child in this old, cruel world, after all.

In the end, he holds himself accountable. He should've done better. He should've protected you better from the cruel world you live in.

Dick would be shocked. His little birdie, his angel, killed someone? Impossible. You're so innocent, like a baby, so how could this be true? He would take some time off to come to terms with the fact that you're not the kind of person he expected. When he comes back, after a week, he seems slightly distant.

With time, following your therapy sessions, he will return to his normal, clingy, annoying self. However, you can't help but wonder why he was acting so weird that one week.

Despite the fact that he also kills people, Jason is incredibly suprised and disappointed after hearing that you killed someone. Unlike everyone else, he feels anger. You're so young, so innocent, you grew up in a place where murdering someone was not necessary, so why would you do it? He doesn't kill people because he wants to, he only does it because he needs to. But you didn't need to do it.

That's what upsets him most. You chose to do it. You willingly took a life.

Despite being so hurt, so broken, he still feels an ounce hesitation when killing people, so how come you, someone who didn't go through what he did, could kill someone in a situation that wasn't even self-defense? Nothing could possibly justify it! And here you are, proudly announcing it to them. You should be ashamed.

He kills murderers, so what should he do with you? Does that make you as bad as the criminals he kills? God, he doesn't even want to think about it.

Jason won't get over it for at least a month. He'll be very distant around you and won't be seen smiling for a long time. Towards you exclusively, his behaviour becomes incredibly bitter. In fact, he's the one who most strongly encourages Bruce to carry out the long, grueling therapy sessions. He really thinks it'll do you good...

Tim's reaction would be more mild than expected. He would certainly feel uncomfortable with the fact that you seemingly feel not an ounce of guilt or regret. However, he wouldn't change his behaviour too much for too long.

During the first week, he'd be a bit more careful with his affection towards you. No, it's not because he's scared. He simply wants to observe you and see how effective the therapy sessions are. If he feels that your attitude towards murder hasn't changed, he would encourage Bruce to be more intense during the therapy sessions.

He would be more careful with the activities he offers you, since Bruce called a meeting with everyone to establish more rules, those being directed at Tim mostly. Tim's "cool, lenient older brother"-act needs to change.

From now on, no crime films or shows (especially not any violent ones), no crime documentaries, no crime or detective books, no vular language, no threats towards anyone or anything and for at least 14 months, no leaving the manor.

This change will probably be permanent.

[dontbesoweirdkira]

Platonic Yandere Jason w/ Batsis darling

A/N: This is supposed to be post death and all that.. Like he's just trying to integrate back into his family and society but it's been hell. His batsis is the one thing that is actually helping him through it thus becoming over attached. He's obsessed with being normal again..for you. (Any Jason Todd)

Warnings: Rather soft yandere actually. but i guess obsession and possessive tendencies.

Requests: always open. please read pinned post which is the masterlist

Masterlist

Yandere Jason Todd who finds an immeasurable amount of comfort and stability in his Batsis. He doesn't particularly understands or even knows why he does but he does.

He still feels awkward and out of place with the rest of batfam. He feels anxious, judged and annoyed around them. It overwhelms him and stresses him to the point of mental breaks. But you ground him. You don't make sudden movements or loud sounds. You don't ask invasive questions or bring up past memories. You're gentle and mindful of him.

The others try bonding but they never fail to eventually overstep boundaries and cause more wounds. He's appreciative of you.

Yandere Jason who cannot help but get possessive over you. He hates when his other siblings command your attention over his. It boils him. I like to think he's constantly comparing himself to them. How normal and fun they are in contrast. He wants to be just like them and do fun things again...but he just cant...not yet. He especially despises Dick and just how pretty and perfect his older brother is. This often causes fights between the two. You and him have tons of inside jokes, secret handshakes and hangouts often. Jay wants that too.

Jason is fearful of going in public with you. He's been craving that local diner spot and love to treat you as a thank you but he doesn't want the stares. He's riddled with scars and looms over everything. He really don’t want his sis to be ridiculed and questioned on his behalf.

Jay tries his best to keep you locked in the house with him. He tries pulling you away from them as much as possible but he feels guilty. This is a miserable life and he doesn't want that was misery on you too, but he just cannot bear you being with them instead. Sometimes he'll offer to sneak out late at night and hang on rooftops with you, but he knows it's nothing compared to the arcades and parties you're missing out on.

He does try very hard to come out of his shell on your birthdays or times like Christmas ect.. He wants to be a good brother and give back how kind you've been towards him. Whatever will make you happy, he'll power through it.

Yandere Redhood who goes after the people that make you cry or feel unsafe. He knows what he promised Bruce but it's to keep is sibling safe. Bruce would understand if he went through even half of the traumatic experiences he did. You have to cut off potential threats at the roots. That's how you prevent lunatics like the joker and to keep souls like you pure.

Yandere Jason Todd who is adorably obsessed with your room. He hasn't done much decorating to his. It's boring and bland, he doesn't remember much of what he liked as a kid before everything happened. But yours is covered in personality. Books, figures, plushies and tons of posters...it's cute. He likes it a lot. Sometimes he just sits in there, even when you're not home because it makes him feel nostalgic? In a good way, it gives him a warm glimpse into what his life could've been as a teen/young adult. Plus it's filled with all the things you love which by default he loves it too. I like to think he steals trinkets from your room that you love the most when he's anxious.

Like you've come home before to him in the corner of his room with one of your big plushies in his arms during an episode. It smells like you it grounds him back into reality. Whatever he's seeing in his head isn't real, but you are. You signify safety.

Yandere Jason who mimics anything you do to learn how to act normal. He doesn't mean to but he spends so much time either with you or lurking near by. Your food options are a major thing is copies. He's often overwhelmed by the many choices in store so when he's hungry, he'll just pick up anything he's remembered you eating. Even if he didn’t like it much.

He doesn't realizes these habits are a bit strange. enviably, one of the other siblings poke fun at him for how his face scrunches up at the taste of your favorite snack. They laughed how he should just get things he likes instead of trying to copy you all the time. They weren't trying to be cruel, just playing like siblings do but it made his world crumble. Was that really strange? Jason didn't mean to make you feel weird. Did you feel weirded out by it, have you been telling the other siblings how bothered you were by his antics?

"Jason, its okay. It's seriously not a big deal, it's slightly odd but i don't mind." You tried reassuring him but it just confirmed his thoughts.

You did think it was weird. That he was weird. You laugh about him behind his back all the time, don’t you?

He knows he's a bit off the drum. He knows he's an embarrassment but a deluded part of him thought maybe the difference wasn't as big as he made it out to be. It was just paranoia. guess..not. He's shattered. His one safe space wasn't real. He wasn’t good enough like the others….yet.

Yandere Jason has to become like a normal brother for you. He needs to be like Dick and Tim. He needs you to think he's cool and fun to be around. He needs to be a good brother...one you're not weirded out by.

[miraculouslbcnreactions]

As a follow up to you post about mentors, just to make things fair, what are examples of Tikki being a bad mentor to Marinette?

Post in question for context.

Tikki often acts as the voice of the author. She's there to explain why Marinette is in the wrong. Since Miraculous has some wacky morals, that means we get a mix of good advice and wacky nonsense advice.

Two examples of bad advice that come to mind are Gamer and Strikeback. Gamer is the episode where Marinette stumbles upon an Ultimate Mecha Strike tournament, realizes that Adrien is taking part, and decides to compete so they can be on a team together. Marinette wins a spot through her own hard won skills and then this happens:

Tikki: All you wanted to do is spend time with Adrien, there are other ways to do that! Marinette: What are you getting at? Tikki: You know how much Max wanted to be in that tournament. Kim said he'd been training for it all year. Marinette: You're right. All I could think about was Adrien. 

This is how tournaments work, right? They're not tests of skill, but tests of who put in the most work or who wants to compete the most! That's why we had that scene with Marinette writing out her training schedule and motivations for evaluation, but she lied and that was wrong and...

Okay, I was the one lying here. There was no written evaluation because that's not how tournaments work. All anyone cares about is your skills. They don't care if you're doing this for personal glory or to get closer to a boy or whatever Adrien's motivation was because - notably - his motivation didn't matter in this episode about needing pure motives to be allowed to do things.

What if he didn't care about the competition and only did it to get closer to his classmates? That's not even a random guess. It's a valid read because Adrien ultimately gives his spot to Max while claiming that Max is the better player even though Adrien very clearly beat Max at the start of the episode. Ignoring that weird nonsense dialogue, why was it fine for Adrien to compete when he didn't care but wrong for Marinette to do the same? And Max wanting to compete to show off his skills is also a totally selfish motivation, so why does it matter that he wanted it more? Everything about this episode was nonsense and uncomfortably sexist. If Max wants to compete, then he needs to get better at the game. That's how competitions work.

Strikeback is the second part of the season four final and it starts with Marinette mourning the fact that "Adrien" has left Paris, leading to this:

Marinette: (crestfallen) It's all over, Tikki. Tikki: He'll be back, Marinette. He's just going on a voyage!

Which would be lovely advice if Adrien was a normal boy, but he's Chat Noir and Tikki knows that. She should be freaking out and trying to find a way to get him back to Paris, but then Tikki would have to support Marinette's actions and we can't have that, so instead Tikki gives this nonsense advice because she has to be against whatever "wrong" thing Marinette is doing today.

I could come up with a few more examples, but I think those two paint a pretty good picture of issue one re Tikki. However, when it comes to Tikki, my main issue with her is less a wealth of bad advice - unlike Plagg*, I think she's right more often than not - and more a lack of support. It feels like she's just here to judge Marinette and point out when she's doing something wrong, but a good mentor should be so much more than that.

Kuro Neko is a great example of this. When Chat Noir quits, Tikki just sits back and does nothing while her young charge is freaking out. She doesn't even try to defend Marinette when Plagg is going off about Chat Noir's "ill treatment". For all Plagg's faults in that episode, at least he's doing something about the situation. Meanwhile Tikki literally has two lines in the entire episode! A similar thing happens in Kwami's Choice where Plagg is the one driving them to act while Tikki just wrings her hands in despair.

Tikki: (sighs heavily) What can we do? Plagg: We must free them of that impossible choice. We must… free them of us.

These are not the actions of a mentor. Mentors aren't supposed to just offer judgement about things that their mentee has already done or is considering doing. They're supposed to be a source of support and guidance in hard times, but we never really see Tikki stepping in to give Marinette that kind of advice. If memory serves, she never offers solutions or acts as a sounding board. That role is mainly filled by Alya and I love Alya! It's good for Marinette to have support from a friend, but Alya is also a teenager while Tikki is an ancient being who has seen many Ladybugs go through the kind of struggles that Marinette is going through. I expect her to use that knowledge to help her charge, but she never does. This exchange from Passion perfectly highlights this problem:

Tikki: Don't worry, Plagg... my holder has decided to run away from her real feelings to pursue an impossible love with Cat Noir instead. Plagg: Uh, just to be sure, sugarcube, you do know that Cat Noir and my holder are one and the same person, right? Tikki: I do, but my holder doesn't. Plagg: If she declares her love to Cat Noir, something tells me she'll find out soon enough. Tikki: You have nothing to fear. When my holder is in love, she never gets anywhere. She'll just knit hats and make very complicated plans that will never come to fruition. Plagg: Hmm... ah, then everything's fine.

Tikki, I love you, but by the gods! With a mentor like you, Marinette doesn't need enemies to be miserable! Do you care about her at all??? What kind of mentor delights at their mentee's suffering? Not a good one, that's for sure.

*Quick note: I think that Plagg and Tikki are probably neck and neck for who has given the most bad advice, Plagg just feels like the bigger problem because we don't see him as much as we see Tikki. Since she's tied to the main character, Tikki gives advice in almost every episode and most episodes have decent morals.

Adrien's need for good advice can also feel more glaring because he's so isolated and passive. That makes Plagg's lack of good advice feel more harmful, but Marinette is just as isolated from real advice. Her mentor figures - Su Han, Fu, and Tikki - mostly give orders and judgement instead of support and guidance. It's just harder to spot that fact because Marinette is actively trying to do the right thing, meaning that she's more likely to make mistakes, and it's easy to see why she comes across as a lot less pathetic and a lot easier to judge.

[lesbiansandgayssupporttheminers]

So, the DfE have released their non-statutory guidance for schools on "gender questioning children". I know much has been made of the idea of outing trans children to their parents, but I think the guidance actually has far more concerning sections. And by concerning I mean "deeply transphobic and fucked up".

I know some people are happy it's non statutory, but let's be explicit, this document is transphobic, it's dogwhistle politics, and it's existence will directly harm trans people.

Ironically, the DfE's own lawyers have advised that this guidance is likely illegal and contravenes the equality act.

I think the idea that there are lots of students who are fully transitioned in school but not out at all at home is a bit of a strawman from both sides. In my experience (and I've mentioned this on tumblr before), a school would not normally encourage this if a student was genuinely at risk at home if outed, because even if all the teachers knew not to out the students, you can't control the behaviour of other students/parents etc. I think it's a bit of a right wing scare tactic "Schools are transitioning your kids without your consent". It's a fascist dog whistle.

In my experience as a teacher, the vast majority of trans kids I've taught were transitioning socially at home and school. Some did only use their chosen name/pronouns in school, but parents were aware.

But this straw man has been used to build a document which is deeply transphobic and wide reaching and will defacto exclude some trans kids from school, or from school sports, or from attending a school where they feel comfortable.

Trans kids exist. Kids can know they are trans from a young age, and there is no harm to anyone from allowing social transition at a young age. Some kids transition back to their assigned gender at birth. That doesn't mean anyone was harmed. But this guidance explicitly presents the idea of transition as both harmful to the person transitioning and those around them. Which is fucked up.

The new guidance has some really concerning bits in it which will seriously negatively impact all trans students. Here are some quotes below, with my comments in italics. Please note I'm quoting directly from a document that uses transphobic language:

-Primary school aged children should not have different pronouns to their sex-based pronouns used about them. (This is fucked, I cannot stress how fucked this is. These kids exist and simply pretending they don't is awful in the extreme. The idea that children can't socially transition at primary school is really messed up. )

-schools and colleges should only agree to a change of pronouns if they are confident that the benefit to the individual child outweighs the impact on the school community. It is expected that there will be very few occasions in which a school or college will be able to agree to a change of pronouns. On these rare occasions, no teacher or pupil should be compelled to use these preferred pronouns. (How does a child using pronouns of choice impact the school community? It doesn't? In my experience, teens are much more accepting of trans classmates than some adults. Also giving teachers explicit permission to misgender kids is fucking dangerous).

-schools and colleges should exhaust all other options, such as using firstnames, to avoid requiring other individuals having to use preferred pronouns. (My initial response to this was "why the fuck" but a trans friend commented that the purpose is to make trans people's lives as difficult and as miserable as possible, and they're going after the most vulnerable trans people- trans kids)

-If a child does not want to use the toilet designated for their biological sex, and the school or college has considered all the relevant factors outlined above, they may wish to consider whether they can provide or offer the use of an alternative toilet facility. (this is weird because I'm pretty sure it contravenes the equality act, I'm pretty sure there is a legal duty on schools, and certainly colleges where over 18s attend to provide gender neutral toilet facilities if required. Also, not having an appropriate toilet defacto excludes children from school).

-Schools may have different uniform requirements for girls and boys. Some specify which uniform items are for girls and which are for boys, and similarly some schools have hairstyle rules which differ by sex. A child who is gender questioning should, in general, be held to the same uniform standards as other children of their sex at their school and schools may set clear rules to this effect. (So some schools could, for example, force a trans boy or non binary student to wear a skirt. Which is unfair and messed up. To be honest, I think sex segregated uniforms belong in the dark ages anyway, but this is just ridiculous.).

-There is no general duty to allow a child to ‘social transition’. (Firstly, there legally is. Secondly, why would a school not want to? This just gives licence to transphobic heads to say "oh, no, we won't allow you to transition", which is illegal, but the whole thing is just such a fucking mess. And again, why? Why would you not allow a child to transition socially? Unless you want to pretend that trans children don't exist?)

If you want to read the full guidance, it's available here, but trigger warnings etc do apply: https://consult.education.gov.uk/equalities-political-impartiality-anti-bullying-team/gender-questioning-children-proposed-guidance/supporting_documents/Gender%20Questioning%20Children%20%20nonstatutory%20guidance.pdf

Yes, the guidance is non-statutory, so in theory schools could ignore it, but in reality, OFSTED etc can use non-statutory guidance as a stick to beat schools with. At this stage, I think we all know the OFSTED don't give a fuck about anyone's mental health or wellbeing.

Interestingly, even the DfE's own lawyers have admitted the advice could open schools up to a legal challenge. This SchoolsWeek article on the topic is super interesting: https://schoolsweek.co.uk/trans-guidance-dfe-lawyers-said-schools-face-high-risk-of-being-sued/

Anyway, whilst the fact it's non statutory is something, this is not the victory some people are making it out to be, and the fact a document encouraging misgendering children has been published at all is fucked. This document could very much be used to prevent children from transitioning, and will likely prevent some children who have transitioned from attending school.

[magicpotatothoughts]

TGCF reread new finds #1

Xie Lian actively and consciously knows that he is attracted to HC the MOMENT THEY MEET in the Ox Cart. Like it’s not just blank gay panic, he knows.

His beauty was deadly like a sword, sharp and mesmerising. Xie Lian only met his eyes for a moment, then lowered his eyes in defeat.

MATE, normally wouldn’t you continue to be mesmerised and can’t peel your eyes away? That is, UNLESS YOURE WHIPPED. XL knows that SL's looks affect him to this degree. Defeat is the key word here.

Also

The distance between them had closed too fast. he suddenly didn't know what to do[...]Xie Lian blanked on the spot. He watched as the tall and slender youth walked away with his giant bag of junk as if it were the most natural thing in the world to do, and it made him mutter inwardly, Forgive my sins.

Making a rich young lad carry your things? Making him sleep in your crappy temple? That doesn't warrant the weighty thought? FORGIVE WHAT SINS Xie Lian??!!!

Many village girls saw (HC) and blushed [...] Xie Lian didn't know what they were going to ask, but felt instinctively that it must be stopped at once, and cried, "No!"

Jealous jealous boi! XL WAS POSSESSIVE after ONE night spent together at Puqi Shrine. Didn’t XL just say to SL that he will have no problem in the love department because girls will throw themselves at him? Yo, why are you cock-blocking? Everyone says HC is insane, no XL is equally insane for the other!

Also, when HC revealed that it's his real skin after the Banyue arc, XL instinctively poked him. Then

He looked at his own finger then hid it away, betraying nothing of his thoughts.

What thoughts XL ?!! Explain yourself right now!

Jumping back to OX CART scene, Xie Lian's character development was foreshadowed when they were talking about the gifting of ghost ashes.

Book 1: Xie Lian sighed. "It certainly is painful to think about, to have given everything for love and lose everything in return."

This is what Xie Lian is most afraid of! Like even thinking back to Xie Lian pushing Feng Xin away in Book 4, he definitely operated under that mindset. Love is a risk, it's something to be feared. Even now 800+ years later, he still feels that way and doesn't allow himself to get close to anyone. It just hits so much harder thinking that he operated under that for so many centuries.

Then Hua Cheng says

"What there to be afraid of? If it were me, I'd have no regrets giving away my ashes"

Which I think really changed the way that Xie Lian thought about love. Book 5 Xie Lian completely operates with Love is empowering and isn't something to be afraid of.

TGCF isn't about XL realising his feelings, literally from Book 1 it's about him wondering if it's worthwhile to act on them.

Three things, is this person worth losing cultivation over for?

He needs the reassurance that this person must reciprocate his feelings.

Then HC changed his perspective on love from FEAR -> EMPOWERMENT.

XL is soooo self-aware (unlike SQQ from SVSSS and WWX from MDZS), he's an unreliable narrator in the way that he doesn't reveal everything to the reader, especially his own feelings until he was absolutely sure that there really was both a physical and romantic attraction. I wanted to make this post to dispel the assumption for XL it was easy to forego 800+ years of cultivation. It was not? He ABSOLUTELY thought about it carefully.

[fairy-lights-and-blobs]

I have someone at like a story idea where Danny is like Princess Yue from Avatar last Airbender

Danny is the physical body for the ancient of space sometimes they just form in the infinite realms and get a physical body along with it and sometimes I just get an essence and have to wait till a body comes along to actually gain consciousness

Danny is that body but the idea is the Justice League is trying to make peace with the infinite realms and the council of ancients have decided let's do a deal we give you a the high Prince of the infinite rounds he stays with you for a month and if he comes back with good news of you humans we will not go to war with you

And the Justice League trying to keep peace agree they were not expecting to see a white hair teenager wearing a heavy layer traditional Komodo with a crown that has mini planets circling around his head to go along with the crown

And Frozen bits of Lazarus water floating around him to add to the exquisite that the boy carries himself with

Danny besides to base his personality off of Dora and princess Yue so no one can connect normal human Danny Fenton to High Prince Phantom Of The Infinite Realms Young Ancient Of Space

Also I just have to crack site of Danny looking at the Lazarus pits that the bats have in the cave because he's staying with them first and going it's a bit Rusty but I can work with it

Proceeding to use the Lazarus pits to make him a pair of pajamas or Danny acting like he doesn't know anything that much about the human world and it's just going along with most things

Danny Phantom acting like a Proper Prince from ancient times it doesn't understand modern teenage things just a mess with Justice League

The Justice League trying their best to appease to a teenager well also trying to stop the US government from starting a war that they will definitely not win

Oh boy, you had a real big brain time with this one :)

The Justice League had been tasked with temporary guardianship over Prince Phantom, Heir to the Throne of All, Steward of Stars.

Adored by the consciousness of the very Realm he will eventually rule over, it would fall upon Earth's best heroes to keep him safe for one entire month, and not a second less.

In exchange, loyal Halloween, also know as Fright Knight, and the King's armies wouldn't take action against Earth as a whole for the actions of one group falsely calling themselves government agents. "Let the Justice League actually deliver said Justice" had been the Prince's comment during a meeting of the Ancients. Before the Ancient Space had been through the cycle of rebirth this last time, there had been no heroes to protect the Living. Only their many divided leaders.

As Danny Fenton, they had caught whispers of the Bat on the rise, of a little Bird to follow after. Of a human, blessed by Hermes who always arrived on time. Of many, many more to follow, taking up arms to fight for Earth and her people, in defense of Justice. As Phantom, newborn half-ghost, and rising Ancient of Space, they heard of many departed souls that sang praises of the heroes, who forgave them for not making it in time, who were happy to have met their favorite before the embrace of Thanatos took them.

If this "Justice League" truly stood for Justice as they claimed, then Phantom would take a chance and trust them.

A week after the accord had been signed by the three leading members of the Justice League, Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, gathered in a meeting room to welcome the arriving Prince and his Council.

The first sign was the way the temperature dropped, followed by the sygils painted on the wall by Constantine and Zatanna lighting up toxic green. Bleeding inwards in a lazy spiral, the glowing light swirled into a spinning rift between dimensions, out of which walked Firght Knight himself, settling to the side of the portal, and standing at attention, ready for the rest of the Council to appear.

As the light from the portal became a pale, icy blue, a hand in a white, claw-tipped glove appeared from the portal, the hand's owner following after it, while the loyal Knight moved to bring his elbow up, so Prince Phantom could grab it and let himself be led out of the portal. The fact that the Prince's Fright Knight rested his free hand against his side, instead of the pommel of his sword, was a good indicator that they expected Phantom to be welcomed and safe here. They would do their best to ensure their trust was not unfounded.

Upon first glance, as the ghost of the hour floated out of the portal, the most attention would be paid to the Crown that sat on the teenage-looking ghost's head, all iridescent metal with little miniature planets orbiting each spike.

The Prince looked around the room, evaluating each of the three League members present, almost silent, if not for the way his long,almost elfin ears twitched, making the chains attached to them jingle pleasantly, little galaxies hanging from the metal and swirling lazily. A quietly howling star filled the silence, until Phantom turned to chirp at the portal, calling in the rest of the Council to step forth.

Not all of the Ancients gathered, this time. For the handoff, only those that Phantom named as family would be present. Frostbite, Pandora, Lady Dorathea and Clockwork.

Frostbite, the Yeti and Pandora, Guardian of Hope, the main caretakers, as his parents. Clockwork, one Brother of Space, now Mentor and Grandfather. Dorathea, Cousin and confidante, who insisted that Danny arrive in the best fashion to be found in his Lair. And through all his past turns of the cycle of rebirth, Danny had accumulated fashions uncountable, for his Fraid to enjoy.

Today, Dora had insisted to dress him up in a black kimono, specifically the one that faded from black, to dark blue into pale icy blue. Snowflakes slowly fell all across the length of the cloth, turning a formal piece of attire into a moving art show, as snow fell in lazy patterns with each step Danny took.

"Batman. Superman. Wonder Woman. Thank you for your kind offer of hospitality while I remain in this Realm." A furry hand on his shoulder led Phantom to sit in the closest chair, thumb nudging gently against a freckled cheek in silent support as the Yeti almost glowed with pride for his boy.

"It is nice to see you well, Prince Phantom." Wonder Woman took the lead, as was the usual when discussions between the three main Justice League heroes involved the more divine or supernatural aspects of the world. "We have some ideas for who will host you for the duration of your time here, and were hoping you might give your opinion."

The plan was for, at least initially, to have Batman host their guest. Both Clark and Diana knew the Dark Knight of Gotham would be a better fit for a Prince's stay.

Clark, with his irregular schedule as a reporter and his sons, and Diana with her work as a museum curator, were both too busy to host him. Bruce, on the other hand, would have the space needed, the free schedule needed to care for a teenage royal, and, most importantly, other teenagers already in his care, to help the current youngest of the Ancients acclimate to the modern Era, and specifically the Gotham lifestyle.

One signed contract later, and Danny floated in front of the Zeta tubes, feeling the rumble of working machinery, the humming of electricity which Danny knew deep in his bones and Core, would always recognize what killed him in this life while keeping his face as neutral as possible.

Right now, Danny was just Prince Phantom, Heir to the Throne and Rising Ancient of Space. Fenton could take a break from his crazy parents and their fixation on ghosts, and Jazz didnt need to spend her entire day worrying about him and smothering him in affection.

Highly advanced machinery was an interest because it was new, not because he wants to take it apart and see what makes it tick.

Thus, misdirection in place, Danny's Core studied the signals coming from the portal frame, and the rift just beyond, waiting to open.

"Your Highness, are you ready to go?" Ah, that would be Batman, standing at his side and watching him. He sounded...soft. The ghosts of Gotham always spoke of how soft Batman was towards children and, Ancient or not, right now Danny was, for all intents and purposes, a teenager.

A dead teenager, and that was bound to tug at the Bat's heart.

So, with a big smile, and big, curious eyes, Danny turned to face the Dark Knight and curtsied just as Dora had taught him to.

"I am indeed ready. I wonder what kind of home Gotham's favorite Knight lives in!"

"Before we leave, I should tell you, there will be others there. My children are a chaotic bunch, but they will be curious about you."

"Of course, no Bat is truly complete without his colony. You speak of them with pride. I will trust your judgement. So long as no one asks me how I died, or anything too personal, I won't take offense to being questioned by your children."

Stepping through the now active Zeta Tube set all of Danny's ectoplasmic nerves on end for a second, a slight feeling of too much settling in his bones at the difference between this and the portal that had brought him to the Watchtower.

Stepping out of the Zeta, Danny shook the pins and needles from his hands, blinked at the lighting change, and stepped into...a dark cave, full of very advanced tech that his inner Fenton pitched to get their hands on, and several small fluffy bats chittering above, watching the newcomer with judgemental eyes for a few seconds. Chirping a greeting at the gathering of eyes settled their agitation.

Clearly, good manners worked with Bats of all kinds.

"This way, Prince Phantom." Distracted by the Bats above, Danny had missed Batman ducking into a changing room and walking out as Bruce Wayne, Beloved Prince of Gotham, and all around Himbo Dad.

Mimicking Fright Knight previously, Bruce held his own arm up so Danny could hold onto it as he was guided to an elevator out of the Cave. He even pretended to stumble just slightly over the step out of the platform, looking around at the actually quite cozy but also really big office the elevator doors opened into.

"I thought people didn't live in castles anymore? Is the Knight of Gotham the exception?"

The eye roll and fond sigh had Danny cheering internally. The man DOES have a sense of humor! Not a fruit loop, after all!

Maybe this will be a fun little vacation.

Maybe, just maybe, Danny can hope that the GIW problem will be resolved, and he won't have to go to war against the Living...

Perched in the rafters above and spying on her dad and the pretty boy they'll be hosting, Cassandra Wayne almost stumbles at the sheer force of the sudden Hope-Glad-please don't be a dream that blankets the entire Wayne manor.

[nthspecialll]

The fandom glorifies Arthur Morgan

Now I am not talking about about low honor, I play high honor and got it as the top at the end of every damn playthrough but my Arthur, as it is the cannon Arthur, is not a good guy. I am not going to talk about all of the murder, robbing and stuff he does, because we are majorly aware of it, I am talking his sexism, casual ignorance and disrespecfulness.

I quite often see people say that Arthur Morgan is a woman lover, and he definitely is, he is better than a lot of men from that time (which isn't hard), but he would not hold up in modern times, because he is not from modern times.

Generally speaking, Arthur Morgan is a man who believes in gender roles, he believes in the idea of "a man being a man" and "a woman being a woman." He has opinions about what a woman should do and what a man should do.

I think the biggest hint at this is his relationship with Sadie, because while he accepts her running with the boys he doesn't seem entirely happy about it. "You got a pair of pants and all of a sudden you think you're Landon Ricketts?" "You want to ruuuunnnn with the men?" and also "can Ms Grimshaw spare you?" when the girls asks if they can come to Valentine with him.

Talking of that quest, when he runs off to get Jimmy Brooks he puts Uncle, a lazy old bastard, in charge of getting the girls home even though they are more than capable of doing it themselves as they are healthy young women who knows how to handle horses.

In several antagonize lines against women performers (which are just as cannon as his greet lines) he shouts things like "That isn't very ladylike!" or "Go back to the kitchen" and "go make someone supper."

People keep saying Arthur would "treat them right" and he would, to an extent, he would care for you, he would be nice to you, but he would force those gender roles. He does have a belief women are somehow "softer" and that he as a person with a provider gene should do more of the harsh work.

So now we covered that, lets talk about the racism, or as I probably should rather call it, ignorance, because it is very commonly know Arthur does not judge by the color of skin.

The first one is that Arthur uses the whites-only saloon in Rhodes. Tilly mentions it to Arthur that they don't allow people of color into it, and yet he still supports it, it isn't a big thing but it is something of notice.

Secondly, when he talks to Eagle Flies where he "sets him in his place" Arthur, honey, you are so wrong here. Eagle Flies is being chased by the government for the mere fact that he exists with a different culture, you are being chased because you murdered so many folks, you can run across the sea and live a good life, they are fucked regardless.

When we first arrive in Lemoyne, Lenny and Arthur talks about the Lemoyne Raiders about racism and Arthur says "These boys got a manner about them but I haven't particularly noticed," Arthur of course you wouldn't, you are a tall, muscular, white man with sun kissed hair and blue eyes, you are the poster boy for eugenics.

Lastly, which will also bring me to the third point, the casual disrespect:

Arthur causally calling Javier a slur on the boat for no reason, did you really need that one-liner so badly? That goes for a lot of times in the game such as: "are you secretly normal" "what a lunatic" "we should find a better story for that scar" "But you continue to irritate me, I will kill you and make my appologies to the lady" "stick around and you might die for her as well" "oh I didn't know I was talking to a lady." All those were a slight bit disrespectful, enough to be able to annoy the majority of us if he said it to us, and they were also unnecessary.

He is also canonically chronically late, most notably we can hear Sean saying "that man will be late to his own funeral," and when you go around antagonizing characters in camp they are not surprised at all, rather they go "back at it again huh?"

All of this is just to sum up, Arthur is a pretty bad man (also counting in all the illegal stuff) and we tend to glorify him and forget some of these things, partly is also because Rockstar are amazing at hiding them, at making them seem natural, and they are because this is a historically accurate game! It is set in 1899 and this is a man from 1899 he is going to be casually sexist and disrespectful, and again, considering that he is from 1899 he is a decent guy because the majority of folk would be like Micah, not Arthur.

I definitely love Arthur, and I love Arthur exactly because the point of his character is him not being a saint but a human. His redemption is choosing to do good where he can, but even so, this is a man in 1899 and he is going to have a 1899 mindset. If you want to play a game that is set in the past but don't have that type of accuracy it is not Red Dead you want to play.

Also here is an Arthur pic as a thank you for reading all of that. I love him.

[dark-konohagakure2]

can you write about hokage!naruto who's tired from all his responsabilities and asks for a cute shinobi to be trained so he can use her mouth as stress reliever every time he needs it!!

tw: dub/noncon, blowjobs, infidelity, power imbalance, praise, throat training, dildo gags, age difference, public humiliation

All characters depicted are 18+

Naruto has been under a lot of stress lately, being the Hokage is as difficult as ever, not to mention he recently got a new addition to his family in the form of an adopted son. Naruto's troubles seem to be never ending, so he decides to invest his resources into something he really needs: a stress toy.

Of course Naruto would never use Hinata as a stress reliever to suck him off all day, he loves her too much for that, so instead he has a slightly younger shinobi picked out and "trained", of course she doesn't know what the training entails before it's already too late and she has a dildo gag locked into her inexperienced mouth.

The training isn't too intense for the poor girl, and it only lasts a few weeks, but it is utterly humiliating. The gag is locked with a seal that won't release until she has completely lost her gag reflex, so sometimes she'll have no choice but to go out in public with the gag in, letting everyone in the village instantly know that she's the Hokage's new personal cockwarmer.

When her degrading training is finally finished, she'll be forced kindly asked to go to the Hokage's office to "assist" with his daily paperwork. Naruto himself is actually quite nervous about being sexual with someone other than Hinata, but it doesn't take him long to get very used to it.

"A-ah, fuck..! All that training really paid off didn't it..? Now just stay quiet, I still have all this paperwork to fill out, so you'll be down there a while..."

Despite his initial nervousness, Naruto quickly gets used to the feeling of having her warm, young mouth around his shaft, and she doesn't even gag anymore thanks to the training, which boosts his ego somewhat. The feeling of her mouth servicing him makes the endless paperwork much more bearable now.

Naruto also likes that he has the opportunity to be as rough as he wants with her. His wife is a delicate woman in the bedroom, so Naruto can use this well trained girl to fulfill his darker desires, like making her choke on his thick cock for hours on end.

Naruto will use her mouth like his personal cumdump, shooting his load into her mouth over and over again until he's satisfied. He's often too busy with work to have sex or masturbate, so the Hokage is very pent up and needs an outlet for his sexual frustrations.

On most days he isn't done with her "services" until the tail end of his day, since he can't resist how good her oral skills feel. Once he's finally done, Naruto will send her off, being sure to remind her of her job from now on.

"G-Good girl... I'm done all my work for today, so you're dismissed for today. I'll definitely see you again tomorrow..."

Naruto is very glad that he acquired something to make his job as Hokage both more bearable and pleasurable. While normally this would mean he can get his work done quicker, he's in no rush to go home when he has such a perfectly wet hole for his cock under his desk.

[writingoddess1125]

Roger and Jessica Rabbit Effect

Buggy Headcanon. Buggy x Reader

Support me on Kofi

Prequel <<<

• This Goofy Motherfucker definitely has a hot wife no one knows about-

• As his personal seamstress you tailor his clothes and make his costumes for all his best costumes. However he adores you, You are his everything.

• Buggy never talks about you, for good reason since he doesn't want any eyes to fall onto you and put you in a dangerous spotlight. Many Pirates didn't talk about their S/O and it was always smart to not to.

• You however were fairly ignorant of the pirate food chain. So you did gush about your husband but no one knew exactly who he was- some mysterious drifter that seemed to appear and disapear like the wind.

• It being a total accident how you were discovered.

• The Strawhat Pirates of course were the ones to discover you by accident when they landed in a small island in need of fabric for the ship sails. The dock master telling them your shop most likely had the fabrics needed.

• Once in your shop you treated them kindly and ignored the obvious flirting from Sanji who was enamored by you.

• "I have just the fabric for your ships" You said cheerfully, not noticing Zoro who was staring hard at the gold necklace that hung around your neck.

• "You're associated with the Buggy Pirates-" Zoro stated as he pointed to the necklace seeing Buggy's Jolly Roger stamped on ots pendent.

• "Hm? Oh I suppose, I'm not apart of the crew or anything but my husband is" You say cheerfully as you pull out some bundles of fabric.

• "Your husband?" They all question now highly interested, Such a pretty person like you being married to anyone apart of Buggy's crew was surprising.

• You giggle at their curious faces finding it adorable. "Yes my Husband, The Captian himself Buggy"

• "..."

• "YOURE BUGGY'S WIFE!?!" They all scream in total terror at how You could be married to that juggling buffoon

• Sanji has an crisis in the corner of your shop as he tries to figure out how he is still single yet Buggy the Clown is married to a hottie!?

• "D-Did he brain wash you? Threaten you?" Nami begs, Holding your hand like you needed some form of comfort.

• "No?- of course not" You say confused and raising a brow at the young pirates all so confused.

• "But you're so pretty, and Nice?-" Usopp points out.

• "Well he's very romantic and sweet" You gush, the youthful pirates staring at you with a deadpan stare.

• "Buggy- Romantic and Sweet?" They all say in disbelief unison.

• "That and he makes me laugh"

• Blushing you go on to explain how loving your sweet husband was, how even though he was out to see most of the time at sea he would constantly send gifts, love letters and more. The crew in shock at this.

• You were such a sweet person, the Strawhats all couldn't help but adore you. Even offering them dinner which they didn't refuse and spending a night in the spare rooms of your home above the shop-

• Seeing the photos of you and Buggy together also adding as a confirmation of your stories. By morning you sent them on their way in new clothes some fabrics for the ships sails, and some leftovers you insisted they take.

• "You kids have a safe journey!" You chime out as the group leaves waving bye and even a few giving some hugs goodbye. Luffy smiling widely at you as you wave to him-

• "Oh before I forget. Would you mind giving this to Buggy next time you see him? You seem to run into him a lot" You say cheerfully as you hold out a blue wrapped box to the young Captian.

• Luffy smiled at this as he took the small box and pocketed it.

"Of course Mrs (Y/N)!" He said cheerfully skipping away with the rest of the crew to return to sea.

• It would be about a month before they crossed paths with Buggy-

• "Straw Hat!!" Buggy yelled as he saw them, his head floating from his body in normal flashy fashion.

• After a mild confrontation were as per usual Buggy got his ass handed to him, The Strawhats were about to leave when Luffy remembered something.

• "Oh- By the way Mrs (Y/N) told us to give you this and-" Luffy says calmly as he reached into his pockets remebering the gift box you handed him- Buggy's whole body going as stiff as a board as he turns to the strawhats with his pupils as small as possible and his body seeming to come apart at the seams.

• It was the first time Luffy or anyone felt a threatening Haki from Buggy starting to drip out like a dam about to burst, in seconds the Clown was holding Luffy by his shirt with a great force.

• Zoro hand started to rest on their weapons as for the first time in a long time Buggy looked- Threatening?

• "Who told you about (Y/N)" Buggy hissed dangerously- Luffy gearing up for another fight one far more serious but then he saw it-

• Buggy was angry/scared and thinking they were a threat to your safety. Luffy pulling out the gift box calmly and smiling.

"Don't worry your secret is safe"

• Buggy stared at Luffy before his free hand took the box and dropped the Strawhat pirate, quickly tearing open the blue box and looking inside. His eyes softening as he saw a new set of gloves inside and a bandana. Slipping off his worn white gloves for the brand new set you'd sown. As well as reading the scribbled note you'd left for him- A crooked smile on his lips at your handwriting and the terrible Nickname you gave him. 'Buggy Boo'

• He glares at the Strawhats his normal fashion. "GET OUT OF HERE STRAWHATS!' He yelled loudly stomping his food dramatically

• A thought crossing all their minds-

• 'Has he been just goofing off this whole time to keep you safe?-"