#if we valued positive stories about good and love and making choices that matter

[briebysabs]

Lu Guang is a hypocrite and that’s okay (great even)

I must stand ten toes for this man because I’m noticing the slander that went on in September and I cannot allow it. I know I’m six months late but just bear with me. We are introduced to Lu Guang as a rational, stoic, sort of wise protagonist. The brains of the operation if you will (although Cheng is clever in his own right but that’s a whole other discussion). Qiao Ling and Captain Xiao describe him as more mature. Shiguang’s relationship is strong but it’s structured, especially for their work, to where Cheng has to depend on Lu Guang. Should only do as he says and not do anything impulsive.

And it gets to a point where Cheng doesn’t know what to do without him and when LG isn’t there he relies on his past words to guide him. The thing is, we’ve seen that CXS can come up with great plans and make good decisions without Lu Guang’s voice in his head. Like how he caught Min Liu or planning how save Lu Guang from Li Tianchen. But the story has built LG up so much to be a reliable character so it can’t be untrue. But then the s2 finale happens, Cheng gets shot and Lu Guang loses his mind.

And then the ending basically tells you that he’s been winging it and gambling this whole time. Experimenting with god knows how many timelines, simply using his knowledge from the previous one to see if he’ll get lucky this time. Lu Guang has been playing a crane game. So in a story that is all about mistakes, guilt and regrets. Of showing the imperfections of people. Of showing the struggles of moving forward, of being satisfied with the present. Of sacrificing your sanity, your voice, your desires, and happiness for the people you love. How is this bad writing?

Link click has been tricking the audience to believe Lu Guang is an infallible character.

But Link Click was never about perfect people.

What he’s trying to do is no different from Li Tianchen, one of our antagonists. And I love CXS to fucking pieces but this show raises the question of a life’s value. LG is trying to save Cheng and so refuses to change the past for anyone else. Bc it may alter things and doom CXS in the process and ruin all he’s worked towards. But then you ask yourself, is CXS’s life worth more than the twins' mother? Is it worth more than Chen’s mother? Is it worth more than Emma?

It doesn’t matter because it is to Lu Guang. It’s like the question if your sibling and a mailman are trapped in a burning building but you can only try to save one. Unless they’re the absolute scum of the earth, chances are and possibly even despite that, you’re going to pick your sibling. That don’t mean it’s objectively more valuable than the mailman or you didn’t have sympathy for that person, they have loved ones, hopes and joys too. “Lu Guang is a hypocrite, selfish, unreliable, and a liar” yes he is. Because there is something called ‘flawed characters’. It’s okay for your protagonist to not be the best person. It’s okay to write a protagonist whose trauma has defined some of their actions.

If you’ve been forced to have someone you love die in your arms over and over, why is it surprising that you would lie to them? How is it surprising that you’d try to keep secrets? That you’d set things up to be in a position to control the situation? That’ll force you to plan better so maybe, just maybe things will be different? You think Lu Guang lacks self awareness and doesn’t know what this makes him? Of all things you can call LG, he’s not delusional. He knows the weight of his actions.

Link Click has and always will be a story about people. Where our emotions and choices take us. Lu Guang isn’t a robot so why would he be an exception?

Plus everyone should’ve been knew Lu Guang was sus anyway. Idk how that’s mischaracterization, there’s proof of him lying and keeping secrets from CXS in s1. It doesn’t ruin anything it recontextualizes what we were shown back then.

[secret77778888]

LUKOLA FANDOM: The bad and the ugly

DISCLAIMER: This is LUKOLALAND only. Skip this if you're not a shipper. This is only my point of view. No harm intended

Luke

Luke has recently found himself at the center of an undeserved hate campaign. Luke is not only a talented actor but also a genuinely kind and down-to-earth person. Those who know him personally often speak highly of his warmth, and strong work ethic. His colleagues frequently commend his positive attitude on set, his dedication to his craft, and his ability to bring a nuanced, relatable charm to his characters.

Despite this, Luke has been unfairly criticized for a range of baseless reasons. One of the most prominent accusations involves "Papgate," where he was allegedly involved in a publicity stunt that some claim detracted from the show's success. However, it's important to recognize that Luke has always been committed to the success of Bridgerton. As a professional, he understands the importance of the show's reputation and would never intentionally jeopardize it. A professional PR team would never have advised Luke to engage in such a stunt, especially given that there was no pressing need or benefit in doing so, after all, the hard launch has yet to occur. It's clear that Luke genuinely admires his good pal Nicola and values their relationship too much to have intentionally ruined their night. The lack of evidence to support these accusations further highlights the unfair nature of this criticism. His hard work and talent should be celebrated, not overshadowed by baseless accusations.

Another point of contention has been Luke's personal life, with some fans unfairly speculating and judging his choices. However, Luke, like anyone, has the right to live his life privately and without undue scrutiny. We might raise an eyebrow at some of Luke's associations and choices, but that's something we can ponder in the privacy of our Lukolaland without spreading negativity. Luke wasn’t jobless; he was taking a well-deserved vacation after months of hard work with his friends before returning to work in August, just like many do. There's nothing out of the ordinary here. It’s important to remember that we don’t have all the details, so we shouldn’t be quick to judge without knowing the full story. I trust that both Luke and Nicola will navigate this situation wisely and come through just fine. He has conducted himself with integrity, and the assumptions made about his relationships are purely speculative and often harmful. It’s wrong to attack him, his family and friends.

Luke Newton is a promising young actor with a bright future ahead of him. Beyond his undeniable talent, he is known for his kindness, and humility. Luke has always been a good-looking guy, though attraction is subjective. If he’s not your type, that’s fine, but many others do find him attractive, and it doesn’t make sense to broadcast your disinterest across Lukolaland. If you’re not a fan, simply move on without trying to ruin it for others. What truly matters is the work he’s done. Luke plays Colin with skill, bringing depth, relevance, and nuance to the role, with a performance that is both detailed and deeply empathetic. If his performance wasn’t to your taste, feel free to critique it constructively, but keep the focus on his acting. Luke is talented, passionate, and generous, and those who know him appreciate and love him for that. Even his Barbie, I mean-his costar, Nicola has nothing but kind words to say about him. While fans may have opinions, it is important to approach these with empathy and respect, rather than extending unwarranted criticism.

Nicola

I've come across articles and comments that unfairly critique Nicola’s appearance, suggesting she isn’t attractive enough due to her so-called "average" or "oversized" body. The only thing average about her body is that it fits an average size. Let's set the record straight: Nicola is neither fat nor skinny, she’s simply herself. And let's stop equating body size with beauty. Fat people can be stunning, just as skinny people can be less so; it's a fact of life. To claim she doesn't meet certain standards of beauty is not only incorrect but downright absurd. Have you seen her? She is a definition of beauty, both inside and out. Her radiance is undeniable, fitting most conventional beauty standards effortlessly with her baby blue eyes. She embodies all the qualities we value collectively in terms of feminine beauty and her body is a Roman empire.

While you might not personally be attracted to her, that view is far from the majority. Nicola outshines 99% of the population, and among the remaining 1%, she’s in the top tier, thanks to the beauty that comes from within. Her intelligence, brightness, and wisdom add to her allure, making her truly captivating. It's absurd to claim that Luke isn't attracted to Nicola simply because she doesn't fit someone's narrow idea of "his type." Attraction is highly personal and goes far beyond superficial traits. Luke and Nicola share an evident deep connection that likely transcends physical appearance, focusing more on personality, shared values, and mutual respect. Moreover, the idea that Luke wouldn’t be attracted to someone as radiant, talented, and charming as Nicola is equally baseless, if anything, she embodies qualities that many find irresistibly attractive. And we have no definitive idea of what "his type" is as both of his exes looked different and the only trait that they have in common is that they’re attractive talented genuine and kind women who are actresses; Its therefore not wrong to assume that Nicola could fit that description and not the contrary. Just as some may assume Nicola isn't his type, the reverse could be just as true, maybe she is not attracted to tall, dark and handsome men with a remarkable shade of blue eyes, which only underscores how irrelevant these superficial judgments are. Nicola is human, at least I think that she is, and like all of us, she might make mistakes. But unlike many, she is thoughtful and deliberate in her life choices. Nicola has every right to choose her own partner, and while we may wish otherwise, that decision is hers alone. She’s independent and career-driven, and she’s certainly not desperately waiting around for just anyone, only for the one who truly makes a difference in her life. That’s likely why she hasn’t publicly claimed anyone yet. Thankfully, we can trust her judgment, as she knows best who brings happiness and adds value to her life.

Tifaine

Within the Lukola fandom, some creators have been unfairly attacked for their dedication and hard work. Tifaine, in particular, has faced criticism despite her contributions to the community. While it may seem unusual to outsiders that grown people dedicate so much time to shipping real people, it is essential to understand that this community is built on love and admiration, not harm. The only people who have the right to criticize this are Luke and Nicola themselves, and they have expressed appreciation for the support they receive from fans. If Nicola or Luke ever express discomfort or a desire to reassess those boundaries, most of us would comply or, would stop because, contrary to popular belief, we are functioning adults with full lives.

Tifaine's work in the fandom has been invaluable, and while disagreements may arise, it is important to recognize the effort and passion she brings to the community.She has certainly sacrificed time, money for the cause and she puts herself out there which attracts a lot of negativity. Based on my understanding, she was merely presenting facts mostly well-known and non-detrimental ones that do not undermine what’s happening between the two leads. She has consistently shown that she cares deeply for both of them and genuinely wishes for their success, whether individually or together. I trust her intentions and appreciate the significant effort she has put into her work, which is far from negligible. Her dedication is commendable, and her contributions have helped create a space where fans can come together to celebrate the love and success of Luke and Nicola.

In conclusion, I believe that the recent wave of negativity in the community is both unwarranted and harmful and frankly quite counterproductive. And if none of them is above criticism, it is crucial to remember that behind the screens they are real people deserving of respect and kindness. As fans, our role should be to support and uplift, not tear down. By fostering a community built on love and understanding, we can ensure that the fandom remains a positive and welcoming space.

[ghostgirldiaries]

My Romantic Standards

Welcome to my first blogging post about wellness and mindsets! Here is a list of my own romance standards. This is based off of my own experiences, and you may use these as your own guide as well.

1. Queen treatment above all! I say Queen treatment because personally princess treatment is a lower level, of treatment and I’m above that. Princesses usually need someone to rely on and queen’s value their independence. And queens are humble.

2. I value my independence. This is very important because I simply enjoy have my freedom and peace, for example my partner doesn’t need to always take me home, control my life or choices, or cling to me as if they were a leech.

3. Boundaries. Boundaries are extremely important in any relationship because they have a crossing line, and if someone were to cross it then I would communicate how that makes me feel and such. Boundaries are a form of respect for yourself and for others.

4. Communication. We move into communicating with each other, especially when there is something that bothers both me or my partner, I would never dismiss someone’s feelings, or opinions. I value Honesty.

5. Keeping an open opinion/mind. No matter what the situation is, it’s good to keep an open mind to all sides of a story.

6. Asking about virginity is a no no! If that’s all this relationship is about sexual pleasure then I am leaving because that is not fair to me as person and not what a romantic relationship is about. If anything why does it matter if I am or not, and why is it important for my partner to know or use it against me? No no NO!

Tip: be aware if they mention anything related to this in a talking stage, then don’t settle for that! That shows their true intentions/feelings for you‼️

7. Having a positive mindset and lifestyle. I believe everyone regardless of being in a relationship or not should have a positive mindset, attitude and lifestyle. I wouldn’t want to date someone who bases themselves off their whole insecurities and negative feelings or thoughts. Also having a healthy lifestyle such as making good choices ex: choosing to be with friends instead of playing video games all day.

8. Letting each other shine freely. Being able to shine freely without any restrictions is what makes a healthy and happy romantic relationship! Letting each other shine is what makes us, us, it’s what differentiates us from others.

9. Maturity. Being mature means that you don’t allow certain things or behaviors into your life that can affect you. This is where you have a sense of emotional and mental maturity. Such as not involving yourself or engaging in drama or unnecessary conflicts and having a sense of self control.

10. I will always put myself first. Putting myself first always because I may love or care about my partner but I love/care about myself more. My wellbeing before yours. And if you are only interested in me being arm candy or me revolving around you well that’ll be a goodbye.

That’s all for now, but I challenge you to make your own list of romantic standards. It’s good to make this so you don’t EVER settle for less! Remember drink water, go for your hot girl walk and stay safe!

Singing off…

Xoxo, urghostgirl 💋

[dangermousie]

I confess that the narrative of TTJ in the sect learning how to be a human properly was always my favorite part of the novel even if it wasn’t a romantic portion of the story. So I am so excited the drama kept it (with bits of the Cang Jiumin dream storyline, they meld seamlessly.) 

(I love that he actually gets a name chosen with care and not one that is expression of hatred and bad luck!)

Look at how shocked he is the master is all “the sword is yours, keep it.” He is so not used to care and kindness.

Honestly, it’s little things that get me, like how he’s so awkward being hugged by the blind lady and you realize he’s still not used to being touched in gentleness and love.

It’s just such a pleasure watching TTJ find acceptance and care in the sect - finally a decent parental figure in his master and then also the sect brothers who just accept and like him, do not view him as a monstrosity (he didn’t have such matter-of-fact acceptance even during his emperor days for obvious reasons.) This is the longest stretch of normalcy he’s ever had and he needed it so badly (and the fact that it comes from sect master and brothers he destroyed in past timeline is extra glorious; it does show that we are our choices, we are not doomed to do the same thing over and over.) The fact that he probably got it because Susu broke his fate/curse and so he is not being pushed by literally the Universe into more and more suffering as a goad to turn him into devil god, is an extra bonus. And the thing that gets me so hard is - TTJ aka Cang Jiumin, thrives. He repays kindness with kindness - you watch him be a good student and kind to the old lady and practice well. 

It makes me think of the scene in an early ep flashback where older nanny tells younger nanny that the reason TTJ has difficulty processing or understanding emotions and people is because of his fucked up existence. And she is proven right - he is clearly always an introvert but living a nice life full of physical and emotional caring (he does not go hungry, he is liked, he is taught, he is valued), he adjusts more and more. He soaks normalcy as a sponge and I think learns as much or more from this stretch as he did from Susu. Susu opened up the gate but it’s this time that really puts the seal on it (yes, I am mixing my metaphor.) He needed to love and be loved by at least one person to give the world a chance, but he now has demonstration that not the whole world is awful. Before he hated the world but refrained from damage because Susu loved it, but now perhaps he can learn to love it a little on his own behalf. (And it makes sense his fate was nonstop horror before - if you want someone to turn into a demon god who is in so much pain he wants to erase the universe into nothingness, you can’t give him a glimmer of hope or a positive outlet. You don’t want your would-be world destructor to go “I don’t want to end the Universe because I have a sect dinner on Thursday, and my wife and I are going on a vacay the following weekend, how about we check back in a few millennia.”)

He is so gentle with this random old lady and he’s able to analogize the two of them - that is empathy, really, something impossible for a person they claimed was devoid of feelings; he’s come so far all because he’s had normalcy and care.

And he tries to make her withered tree bloom because she wants it, tries so hard even tho he just met her (and that he tries with the help of charms Susu taught him - he really is a memorial to her in so many ways, a living breathing memorial.)

I love his conversation with the old lady btw, it is my favorite scene in the episode, where they talk about why people live. In some ways, despite his age he is pitifully young since he’s had so little normal experience. This isn’t just a mission to help and old lady, it is a mission to help him too.

The way it turns out she knew and yet still took it, because kindness is rare and precious...

I love his opening up, responding to honesty with honesty, care to care. He is like a mirror to the world, in so many ways, and when all it gave him was pain he dealt pain back, but he is slowly healing, slowly climbing out of his well of misery and abuse and seeing humanity in others and in the process finding humanity in himself.

It’s so interesting how he answers about people, not home, because he doesn’t have a home, not really. Nowhere where people are glad to see him and so there is no home for him because without care it’s just rocks and dirt and why does he care where he is.

Oh God, this killed me.

The way he ponders that!

The way this is written - it’s as if Susu translates the world to him and him to the world and without her as the conduit, he cannot judge his success or his worth or his morality. I am incoherent!!!

It is gutting that all he needed was a little push - a little choice, a little happiness. Look how quickly he learns - like when he talks about his wife to the old lady and old lady asks if he could get his wife back by becoming evil, would he, and he thinks and is tempted but says no because Susu would not have liked it. He has learned to put what she wants above what he wants (a change even from “hate me as long as you are here.”)

The way he figures out how to fulfill the old lady’s wish with his white lie and her response just...

Here he is with the old lady who passed away. I am verklempt....

It really is nature/nurture debate and the answer is pretty clear - if he was brought up with love and care instead of constant trauma and suffering - he would have been just lovely; he is climbing out of that abyss even after all the torment and without it he’d have been there so much sooner. Devil God actually is a manifestation the world’s cruelty creating its own monsters and seeds of its own destruction and I love that.

PS Devil God voice is proof that you can’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good (or evil in this case.) He should have taken the body/soul when TTJ didn’t care and was offering but he wanted to wait for the perfect host as opposed to 98% compatible and now he’s living (undying?) proof of the old adage of “you snooze you lose!”

[growup-thatbeautiful]

Pretty Girl | 5. hold my hand

1. pretty girl | 2. lover, you should’ve come over | 3. been on my mind | 4. last goodbye | 5. hold my hand

Warnings: again, mention of ed and ed discussion. if you want to skip those parts, go to the instagram story part :)

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Instagram

liked by tasha.trace, delilah.seresin, hangman.jake, and 1,089,282 more

y/n.username so guys,

you may or may not have noticed the inactivity, the rumors, the distance, or the chaos that’s recently been surrounding me and my life. if you haven’t, good on you.

i have no intention on denying anything said about me. it’s not my responsibility to acknowledge the lies that people spread about me, and it’s certainly not my job to change my lifestyle because someone i no longer associate with decided that my time is past.

that being said, i also have no intention on denying comments made about my past with an eating disorder. without getting into specifics, i want people to know that i’m not ashamed or scared to discuss my body and the choices i’ve made about it. yes, i’ve had moments of struggle about how i look. yes, i’ve learned how to love myself and see value in the people who love me. i’m not alone in my struggle, and neither is anyone else.

Comments have been disabled

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10 minutes.

That’s all the time it took with Jake on the phone to convince him to come and see you that day.

That’s all it took for him to pay double for shitty plane tickets, fight through fans and press, and show up at your door hours later with roses and open arms. You’d talked with him for 10 minutes and everything clicked together like it always used to.

Jake told you about his sister and her own struggles with her body; how, when he was 11, Delilah was 19 and raising him and his little sister Lillibet. How that didn’t leave much room for positive reinforcement in Delilah’s mind about how she looked. How she hid it from everyone else and didn’t get any help until it was almost too late.

You know now, looking back on that day, that Jake had been absolutely terrified of almost loosing someone else to mental health. You couldn’t have known, just like he couldn’t have known about you, and together that created a messy jigsaw of unexplained, very real emotions that didn’t fit together at the time.

Jake’s anger, understandable yet unwarranted, and your stubbornness made quite the wedge in between you. A wedge, however, that was nothing compared to the immediate reconciliation that took place on the phone call. He finally, finally told you why it meant so much to him, and you told him where he misstepped.

That had been enough to convince him to come see you in New York on a whim.

And he hasn’t left since. It’s been five weeks of reconnecting, getting to know each other more, and finding new ways to love him. It may sound trite, but he really does surprise you every single day. Whether it’s coffee from your favorite cafe on the way back from his run or a carefully planned date, he never disappoints.

You can’t say that it’s easy. There are going to be difficulties no matter who you’re with, but Jake makes them worth it.

He’s worth the pain and the drama and the rumors and the talking. He’s worth it all.

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Instagram

y/n.username added to their story

 ——————————————————————————

Messages

get bagman in the bag, man

tash: barf

callie: gross

you: because i’m so adorable?

callie: you are

callie: hangman isn’t

you: disagree

you: respectfully <3

tash: i know babe

tash: what are you doing today?

you: shopping to celebrate

callie: celebrate what?

you: i got a job

you: in paris

tash: NO FUCKONG WAY

tash: THATS INCREDIBLE

callie: BABEEE

callie: IM SO PROUD OF TOU

you: THANK YOUUU

you: ILY

callie: can we come visit you

tash: i’m coming with you

you: yes please

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Instagram

y/n.username added to their story

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Messagss

you: oh shit

jakey: what

you: everyone’s going to think i’m shopping for a wedding dress

jakey: are you?

you: you haven’t asked me anything

jakey: hmm

jakey: i’ll have to fix that soon

you: …

jakey: ♥️

you: so should i be wedding dress shopping

jakey: only if you want to, darlin’

you: i’m going to scream into a pillow

jakey: wait till i really ask you

jakey: you’re not going to know what to do with yourself

you: that’s what tasha is for

jakey: i was hoping you would say you would scream into my pillow

you: baby.

you: now i have to cut that out of the screenshot i’m sending to tash and callie

jakey: paybacks a bitch

you: no he isn’t.

jakey: you know what i mean

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Instagram

liked by tasha.trace, roo_bradshaw, halo_cal_bass, and 2,382,299 more

y/n.username we say hi from paris 🥖

view 347,292 comments

tasha.trace I MISS YOUUU

-> y/n.username COME VISITTT

halo_cal_bass save some paris fun for me

y/nsrealgf she’s living her best life rn

penny.benny Awww! Have the best time ever!

jakeyywife okay but her and jake are so cute i can’t believe they’re back together

delilah.seresin my favs <33

r_paybackfinch why didn’t i get invited :(

-> y/n.username you’re always invited :((

roo_bradshaw unfair i wanna go to paris instead of hangman

-> tasha.trace then maybe ask your girlfriend to go

-> tasha.trace i’m sure she wouldn’t oppose

maverick.mitchell Amazing! Tell Jake to take you out to dinner!

-> y/n.username i will!

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Messages

you: mav says to take me out to dinner

jakey: lucky for you i already had that planned

jakey: there’s a dress for you on the bed

jakey: i’m downstairs whenever your ready

you: AWWWW

jakey: no rush

you: crying

jakey: don’t cry, darlin’

you: too late

jakey: …

jakey: i love you

you: i love you too

you: i don’t know why you thought that would make me stop crying though

jakey: ♥️

you: <3

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A/n: guys!! it’s finished. this series has meant so much to me and i thank you so much for all of your support. let me know what you think about this last part, and send me any thoughts, requests, anything you want <33 nova out ⭐️

taglist: @rosiahills22 @fangirlvibez @djs8891 1 @shanimallina87 @abaker74 @lauraseresin

[mymarifae]

HI I just happened to have stumbled upon your account and got very excited to see someone talking about the story for this HSR update because I’m still processing!! I know you’ve mainly been talking about Aventurine (understandably so), but I’d love to know your thoughts on the conversation between him and Acheron. Idk something about that scene really stuck to me through everything. I think it reveals so much about each of them as individuals and even their relationship? But yea how did you see it and what are your thoughts and

i loved it! like i said, i really, really, really enjoyed the way she shunned the nihility despite her position as an emanator. that was thematically perfect. she's a "raiden mei" who lost her "kiana" (and subsequently, her home, her planet, and everything she knew). she has been engulfed by despair, plagued by loss on an unimaginable scale. it would be so easy for her to drown in the nihility - to lose herself in the pointlessness and unfairness of it all... but she doesn't. she actively chooses to value life and individual choices. when aventurine starts talking about the nihility enveloping everyone and always being There, she tells him it's pointless. "it" not as in life, but as in the nihility itself.

and she's right! if it's always there, then what's the point in paying it any mind? that energy is better put into cherishing the time you do have to be alive. life matters because it always comes to an end. like, remember the xianzhou? yeah.

everything she had to say about endings and death is basically my own perspective on the matter. so that was really gratifying ^^ it's not a perspective i often see explored to the extent hsr did, because like i've said before... many stories are afraid to go prodding at the idea of death. many people are terrified of it. but like... why bother with that? it's there, it will happen to all of us, that's fine, i don't mind, i'm not going to despair over it. because the journey and the memories we make along the way are what matters

(good old red text blending in badly with this alternate color palette of hers... "And because of this, the 'end' will thus reveal a completely different meaning.")

she really was the perfect person to convey this. not just because of the subversion of the entire philosophy of nihilism - i think aventurine needed to hear it all. from her specifically. hard to keep arguing that life is pointless because it always ends in death when an emanator of nihility tells you that's not true. he hasn't valued his own life since... well . ever, it seems. even in his childhood he was ready to gamble it all away (the flashback where he risks his life to retrieve his sister's necklace)

his current gamble isn't over yet. he managed to stay one step ahead of sunday and provoked acheron into attacking him and getting him to this "other side" of the memory zone/dreamscape. but now he has to get out - and from what i understand, this is the part where all those official deaths on penacony's record happened. it wasn't them being "killed" in the dreamscape; it was their attempt to leave this "other side." if he can do it, i think he'll come out with a new appreciation for his life and a new sense of peace - and perhaps some freedom from the IPC, finally. the other stonehearts seem to think he's actually dead, right? here's his chance to slip free. which is the real reason why he went this far in the first place, btw :)

[pedrospatch]

As someone who was very recently having the same feelings about writing and fitting in on here as you are, I very much understand how you feel. It's extremely painful and makes you question everything, but you really, truly, genuinely are a wonderful writer. I'm glad to hear you don't plan to stop writing, but I hope you don’t leave because you bring value to this fandom and to readers. You could write for any character and someone could emotionally connect to it and that's a very powerful gift. I got a message today from someone telling me my fics got them through really hard times, and hon, I'm gonna tell you the same, because it's true. I felt like I should quit writing because there was a lull in my popularity for a couple fics and it damaged my self confidence, but reading your fics reminded me of why I love to write, which is to connect with people. I read "to do the right thing" and was blown away (though you might not have noticed this name. I have separated blogs for everything). So much so that I was like, oh right, this is why I love to write--to feel things like this and hope others feel the same when reading my work. It's hard to remember on here, where we live by notes and comments and reblogs, that sometimes making an impact on one person is a big deal and it matters. You happen to positively impact a large group of people with every story you post.

I feel like I can confidently say that people here support whatever choices you will make moving forward, but I also feel I can confidently say that we would miss you and your writing.

Sorry this is so long. But I get it, hon. Just keep on keeping on. 🩵 I hope you feel better soon.

I legitimately…am crying. Like I always say “oh I’m crying” no but actual tears are coming down right now and I’m so glad because I think for one, I just need a good cry and get out all these feelings I’ve been harboring and two, I have gotten kind words over the last couple of days that have all had such an impact on me and I think this was the last one, in addition to the others that finally felt like a good slap in the face wake up call to snap me out of whatever emotional dumpsterfire state I’ve been in.

I’ve lost quite a few followers between yesterday and today (I get it, emotional pity party Vee who does nothing but bitch and complain is not a fun person to follow so no hard feelings) but it DID make me wonder if I’m truly being nuts about it all and whether my mental health is just so far down the garbage chute that I don’t see how ridiculous I’m being over nothing? But with people reaching out to tell me they know how it feels…I feel a little less crazy, that’s for sure. I feel disappointed in myself for letting myself fall into that damn trap of caring so much about notes. Especially because when I first started out, I didn’t care about it. I was just having fun and sharing my ideas. The human part of me adores the validation and it makes me feel good and that’s okay, but to let it get to the point where I am letting a number determine whether my stuff is good it or not? That’s not okay. I wouldn’t want anyone, especially fellow writers who I think are so talented, to do this.

I feel ashamed tbh. Because you’re right, touching someone with your writing and connecting to people, that’s what is important. I loved getting replies and messages about someone telling me they can put themselves right in my story, that they felt like they were there. I loved that people told me they could feel my character’s emotions. I hold my characters so close to me and I should not stop loving them. They’re mine, and there are people out there who love them too. It shouldn’t matter if it’s 1 or 1000. If one person adores my sweet lil Peach from ASH, than I appreciate that one person for loving a fictional character I created.

I have a few people who have been so supportive of me and reminding me how much they love my writing and they’re more important to me than all the fucking notes and popularity on this site. And to any of these few people, I’m so sorry for being such a sad train wreck of a person. I hope you know how much I appreciate you sticking around and being so encouraging while I have been in my feels. I didn’t mean to be so ungrateful to you. I’m going to keep on writing and posting for myself, but for YOU as well. Because you’ve been here for me and you support me and that means more to me than anything.

Thank you so much for this message. It truly was the last one that snapped me out of it.

[shadowkat678]

I know there are people here who'll absolutely misconstrue my words, so before I continue, this is NOT a justification for awful actions or choices or beliefs.

HOWEVER! (Yeah I know, always a great start to a post)

It seems very... unhealthy when I stumble across responses or posts in a certain vain talking about groups of bad people in the context, say, of like law enforcement or conservatives or military or whatever where people instantly paint them as "They JUST wanted to do x, y, or z because it lets them feel this or hurt these people or gives them an excuse to give into their darkest impulses".

Like. It's not necessarily always wrong. But I think there's a habit of going "No, they're lying when they say they want to (Insert positive intention here, such as serve their communities, Protect The Children, uphold values they believe help people, whatever), and that is an excuse to hide behind." and turning it into...I don't know.

Cardboard cutouts to put all our grievances and anger and pain on that simplify bad people into things we don't have to have any relation to. Something simple and straightforward and easy to dismiss without being hurt as much by their choices more than you have to already be.

But people often do fall into harmful ideologies and groups fully buying, still even to the end buying, the reasons they give. That's what justification is! People want to feel like they're backing something or doing something that matters! That makes them feel good or vindicated or heroic!

The road to hell IS paved with good intentions, and that's one reason people double down so much! Even with facts shoved right in your face, how do you reconcile everything you built around yourself being a lie? That you hurt people? That you're not even the story's villain often, but a pawn of lackey of a greater evil?

That's why we praise those who escape that, right? It's hard. It hurts. Your entire perceived reality crumbles around you. To face that and accept it anyway, then strive to be better, and find ways to undo the harm is an enormous life altering choice that could lose you so much. And it's terrifying.

And added on to that, you have to do so facing people who may rightfully hate you. It'd be so much easier to continue falling further in, with people who justify your actions and offer you compassion and kindness while everyone else is calling you a monster, but YOU know you're not a monster, right? You're just trying to do what's best. Your beliefs are justified. They have to be.

Of course you're a good cop, you bought that mother who couldn't afford a booster seat one instead of ticketing her, right? I mean maybe you couldn't let everyone off, and some people unfortunately get hurt or can't afford rent because you didn't let them off when you caught them going 10mph over the speed limit but they could control that more so why is that your fault? Yeah you defended the cop that got accused of shooting something wrongly, but it was a mistake. People make mistakes don't they? And you know his family. He's been on patrol with you.

He's a good guy, it was just a mistake. You're a good guy. If you hold him to his mistakes, what about yours?

This isn't, AGAIN, saying not to hold people to their choices. This is not a justification post. But there's a very real fear I have, that if you go too far in forgetting those in the wrong are complex, people who have love, redeeming qualities, and humanity...well, how do we recognize ourselves when we fall down our own holes?

When we justify our own actions. Because we're good people, right? Isn't that how exclusionists happen, leaning so hard into doing this to PROTECT other vulnerable populations from infiltration and abuse, for example? How The Good Feminists justify turning their pain and honing it as a weapon against sex workers, men as a whole always being a dangerous force to constantly guard against (specifically referencing the harm done by ignoring intersectional struggles and the way the patriarchy hurts literally everyone, which by the way I fell into for a while too), etc etc etc etc etc

It's easy to other those who've hurt us and paint them as monsters. But in forgetting the complexity of those who hurt us, we open ourselves to blindspots, and also further push away those who might be on the fence to turn away from these harmful choices and beliefs.

I think we do ourselves a disservice in not understanding the more scary evil of those we fight against. That they're just people, and we could very well fall into our own traps. That evil is often not that of cackling villains fooling everyone around them while enjoying the harm they cause, but individuals justifying their actions through their own fear, anger, distrust, misplaced intent, or prideful arrogance.

You can hate them just as much! Their actions are just as reprehensible!

You don't need to flatten the complexity of your enemies as fully fledged people to oppose them and what they've done!

[eco-consciousmarketplaces]

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[kapecatorcekc14]

Coffee Talk: How Your Favorite Brew Reveals Your Personality 

Coffee—our faithful companion, our morning ritual, and the elixir that jumpstarts our day. But did you know that your favorite coffee brew says much more about you than just your taste buds? Indeed, in the world of coffee talk, our choice of brew unveils fascinating insights into our personalities and preferences. Whether you're a bold espresso enthusiast or a laid-back cold brew connoisseur, each sip tells a story about who you are. So, let's embark on a journey of self-discovery through the captivating world of coffee and its remarkable ability to reveal your personality in every delightful cup. 

The Science Behind the Connection 

You might wonder, "What's the science behind the link between coffee preference and personality?" Well, it's not just a matter of taste; there's psychology and neuroscience at play here! Before we delve into how your favorite brew reflects your personality, let's explore the science that shapes our coffee preferences. From the mesmerizing aromas to the caffeine-induced buzz, there's more to coffee than meets the eye. 

The Neurotransmitters 

When you take that first sip of coffee, your brain releases neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin. These "feel-good" chemicals influence your mood and emotions. The specific flavors in your favorite coffee activate different neural pathways, resulting in varying emotional responses. 

A Symphony of Flavors 

When you take that first sip of coffee, you're not just tasting a simple beverage but experiencing a symphony of flavors. The unique combination of coffee beans' acids, sugars, and oils results in diverse taste profiles. Each brewing method brings out different characteristics, from the bright acidity of a pour-over to the rich, full-bodied flavor of a French press. 

Caffeine and the Brain 

Ah, caffeine—the magical compound that transforms groggy mornings into moments of clarity. When you consume coffee, caffeine enters your bloodstream and crosses the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain, it blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter responsible for inducing sleepiness, and instead stimulates the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, boosting alertness and concentration. 

What Does Your Coffee Choice Say About You? 

Coffee preferences can be as varied as the number of coffee shops in a city. Each beverage has a distinct flavor profile that caters to different taste buds, from lattes to cappuccinos, cold brews to iced coffees. Let's explore what your go-to coffee order reveals about your personality: 

Espresso Enthusiast: The Bold Risk-Taker 

As an espresso enthusiast, you are no stranger to taking risks and making bold choices. There's something about the strong, intense flavor of a straight espresso that speaks to your adventurous spirit. Whether facing a challenge at work or tackling a new hobby, you never shy away from a little pressure. You thrive on it. That fearless attitude makes you a natural leader; others admire your determination and positive outlook. So, the next time you order your go-to drink, remember that it's not just about caffeine - it reflects your bold spirit. 

Mocha Lover: The Comfort Seeker 

For those who can't help but love the comforting taste of mocha, there's no denying the joy it brings. The delightful combination of chocolate and coffee creates a warm, cozy feeling that satisfies the soul. If this describes you, then you are likely a comfort seeker. As someone who values warmth, intimacy, and the small moments in life, you understand the simple pleasures that make each day special. Your friendly and empathetic nature makes you a reliable friend and an excellent listener, always ready to offer a comforting word or a warm hug. So go ahead, indulge in a comforting mocha, and savor the small moments that bring joy to your day. 

Cold Brew Connoisseur: The Patient Optimist 

As a cold brew connoisseur, you exemplify the qualities of a patient optimist. Your choice of beverage over hot coffee reveals your ability to remain cool and collected under pressure. You're willing to take the time to savor the intricate details and enjoy the process. Your creative and open-minded nature allows you to see the potential in the unexpected and seize opportunities others may overlook. Your optimism is the fuel that drives your passion, and your patience is the key that unlocks the door to your success. 

Iced Coffee Admirer: The Adaptable Go-Getter 

As an iced coffee admirer, you exude an air of adaptability that can only come from someone who embraces change. There's something special about your ability to pivot on a dime and make things happen, especially when the heat is on (or when the weather is hot, in this case). Your penchant for iced coffee demonstrates the determination and ambition that sets you apart from the pack. You're a go-getter at heart, always looking for new challenges to tackle and new goals to achieve. Whether it's in your personal life or your professional one, you're someone who seizes opportunities whenever they come your way. And if there's one thing the world needs more of right now, it's adaptable go-getters like yourself. 

Cappuccino Devotee: The Balanced Perfectionist 

As a cappuccino devotee, you have a refined palate and an appreciation for the finer things in life. The balance of rich espresso, frothed milk, and velvety foam creates an unbeatable taste and texture. Your love for cappuccino reflects your personality as a balanced perfectionist. You approach life with a sense of harmony and strive for equilibrium. Whether your attention to detail in your work or your impeccable fashion sense, your pursuit of balance inspires those around you. 

Latte Aficionado: The Social Connector 

If you're a latte lover, chances are you're a social connector. You're the person in the room who can converse with anyone, and you love meeting new people. You take pride in being approachable and have admirable confidence when interacting with others. One of your greatest strengths is your ability to make others feel valued and heard, making you natural at building meaningful relationships. Your kind and warm personality makes you a true gem to those who enjoy calling you a friend. You're truly one of a kind and a valuable member of any team. 

The Psychology of Coffee Preferences 

As we explore the intriguing connection between coffee and personality, we must consider the psychological factors influencing our coffee choices. 

Childhood Memories and Emotional Associations 

Our coffee preferences often have roots in our early experiences and the emotional connections we formed with certain flavors. If you have fond memories of sipping coffee with loved ones or enjoying a special treat with your family, those positive associations can shape your coffee choices as an adult. 

Cultural and Social Influences 

Cultural background and social factors play a significant role in our coffee preferences. In regions with strong coffee cultures, individuals might develop a taste for traditional preparations unique to their community. Similarly, the influence of friends and peers can introduce us to new coffee varieties and styles. 

Personal Taste and Sensory Experiences 

Of course, personal taste is a major factor in coffee preferences. Each person's unique combination of taste buds and sensory experiences contributes to their individual preferences. Some may favor bold and robust flavors, while others lean towards mild and creamy profiles. 

Conclusion 

In the world of coffee, our favorite brews serve as more than a pick-me-up; they reveal a glimpse into our personalities and preferences. From bold espresso enthusiasts to social latte aficionados, each coffee choice showcases the unique qualities that make us who we are. So, the next time you take that first sip, take a moment to appreciate how your coffee talk reveals fascinating insights about yourself and the colorful tapestry of human personalities that surround us. 

FAQs 

Is it true that coffee preferences can change over time? 

Absolutely, just as our personalities evolve, so can our coffee preferences. Factors like age, lifestyle changes, and exposure to new coffee varieties can all play a role. 

Can I have multiple favorite coffee brews? 

Of course, Many people enjoy a variety of coffee styles, and that can reflect the complexity of their personalities. 

What does it mean if I prefer decaf coffee? 

Opting for decaffeinated coffee doesn't mean your personality is any less vibrant. Some people enjoy the taste of coffee without the caffeine jitters. 

[stitchedhart]

Always Be My Little Girl

July 24, 2023. Andrea Vanessa, you are there and i am here – you at 14, me the mother of a 14-year-old girl! While im sure you are thinking, "four more years and i will be an adult." Omo! thats way to fast to think about it yet! 😂

Seeing that you made it through thirteen, you can now walk the hallowed halls of teendom at fourteen. Enjoy this year, and be sure to get the most of it before hitting another lap around the sun, yeah?!

Here's some of the truths i know that you should hold close to your heart!

Choose your path wisely. There will be many. This is your life, your journey. Follow the route you think its best for you (ill be on bay though, if you happen to get lost along the journey)

Make lots of friends and surround yourself with people who inspire, understand, love you and make you feel good about being you!

Have confidence in yourself. Power, strength, ability, and value are guaranteed by a positive sense of oneself. You'll be able to accomplish your objectives and chase your wildest desires without any worry.

Take care of your body. It is the only one you have. Do not abuse it. Give your body the proper fitness and nutrition that will fuel you for success. And remember, no matter the shape or size, you are perfect the way you are.

Live your life with purpose and give purpose to your life.Do not hold grudges for too long, nakakapangit yown😆 Also, always practice kindness in maximum. If some people are not kind to you, just "kill" them...kill them with kindness.😁

Don’t be afraid to disagree with people, not everyone will think the same as you.

Continue to love yourself as you are – no matter what. Even if it goes against the grain. Be you. Be proud of who you are. Don’t falter with the wind. Don’t start liking a specific book because everyone else is reading it. Dont watch a movie just because everyone watches it. Stick to your guns, but learn how to listen. Embrace the things that you love most.

Love your people. Appreciate them and help them the best way you can. Most of all, love God above all else!

Live your life the way you want it to be..write your own story edit it if you must, but dont plagiarize mine or anybody else's.

Protect your heart and mental health.

I know, most of this will mean nothing to you..maybe just a long birthday post. Read it again in about 10 or 20 years, then it will mean a lot!

I love the time we spend together when im on vacation. Those moments when you are so clingy kahit na sobrang init..😂 I love your words of wisdom na minsan para kang 25 years old kung magsalita (may kasama pang roll eyes lol). I love that you like doing things with me, sumusunod ka sa mga gusto ko kahit minsan labag sa loob mo., dahil wala kang choice kasi ako ang Mama 😅 And im proud na ako ang Mama mo at ikaw ang bunso ko.

Although we may not always see eye to eye, you will always have my support in all that you do. I believe in you, and I look forward to seeing where this journey will take you. So keep reaching for those stars because someday, I know you will get there because you deserve everything that comes your way.

HAPPY 14th BIRTHDAY, my Vani! 🥰 You will always be my little girl. If this world ever becomes too much for you, my arms will always be here to embrace you.

May you fly your blue sky with grace, confidence and hope as you find your place in this beautiful and crazy world!

Loving you now and always.

Mumma❤️

[qqueenofhades]

Also having some not-entirely-formed but nonetheless interesting thoughts about the grimdark genre and how we’re often told that it’s the only valid fictional framework because it “reflects reality.” Wherein, evidently, everyone is morally relativistic and/or outright amoral, everything is bad and heartbreaking and violent, happy endings aren’t real, and that this is the only possible way for fiction to be “sophisticated” and “complex” enough to appeal to the oh-so-intelligent postmodern consumer, who only feels emotion ironically. And just.... really? That’s how all of “real life” is all the time, for everyone, everywhere? We’re supposed to just suffer and do bad things in reality AND in fiction, and that’s the only thing that gives the human experience meaning....?

Aside from being profoundly cynical, pessimistic, and, one would argue, not actually reflective of most people’s day-to-day lives on the individual and human level, it makes me wonder how much of this is a controlling/conditioning tactic used in the service of maintaining the status quo. Like, think about it. If you strongly believe that grimdark fiction “reflects reality” because everything is terrible and there’s no point in trying to change anything because everyone is just as bad and selfish as you, then are you actually going to do that in real life? I’m going to say no. Why exactly do we have so much media pushing this as the main message, and who stands to benefit from promoting a message that the world consists entirely of pointless cynicism and you should just kinda throw up your hands and give up on it?

Of course, this doesn’t mean stripping your narratives of all conflict, drama, emotion, darkness, genuine evil, and complex morality. As I’ve said before, I personally enjoy stories and characters that tend toward the thematically darker and more complicated, because it opens more avenues to ask important questions and come up with nuanced answers. Aside from the patently stupid argument that fiction should only reflect or represent things that would be “acceptable” in real life, trying to sanitize or censor it is as prudish and pointless as trying to sanitize or censor reality. So when I’m critiquing “grimdark,” that doesn’t mean all dark or violent fiction everywhere, or anything with themes or plot dynamics more complex than a fluffy coffee-shop AU. I mean the particular subgenre which makes the cynicism, violence, amorality, and “what’s-it-all-for?” nihilism its entire philosophical and moral point, and then holds that up as also being essentially representative of real life too, so that anyone who doesn’t get that also doesn’t get “the way things actually are” and is too naive and stupid to really think that they could have an effect on the world. And just... this is literally known to be, for example, Vladimir Putin’s exact mindset: make any change as difficult and painful as possible, demoralize anyone from thinking that positive morality is even desirable or achievable, or that the world is anything more than selfish, violent actors performing selfish and violent actions until they all spiral down into the abyss together. That is bleak as fuck. And if that’s what you believe, that’s going to be how you act.

This is even more ridiculous because people demonstrably like stories where there’s allowed to be genuine good, love, hope, healing, or redemption, even if it comes paired with that darkness, pain, death, grief, and trauma. The best recent example of this is, again, the Obi-Wan Kenobi TV series. There are plenty of scenes that are absolutely harrowing, emotionally and viscerally, and outright painful to watch just because of the amount of in-universe darkness attached to them and the fraught histories that the characters have together. But the series weaves a consistent message of goodness through it as well. Its entire central emotional conflict is about love, the loss of that love, and finding a way to move on even in the midst of that same dark night of the soul. It doesn’t cheapen or play down the pain and suffering, but it doesn’t make it the entire, agonizing, bash-you-over-the-head-again-and-again moral point. The hero is allowed to move on from it, and for his good choices to matter both individually and to the world at large. This was clearly a message that viewers responded to, both as Star Wars fans and more generally. They liked being allowed to experience a narrative where endless sacrifice, destruction, and suffering weren’t the only thing, even if they existed strongly. That there was more to life, and more to human experience, than that.

Anyway. Fiction and reality always complement and inform each other, due to the innate human fondness for stories and structured narratives that reveal something to us about our interaction as sentient beings living together in a society. I just wonder what changes to our current society would be possible if we started valuing this kind of story more.

[sometipsygnostalgic]

Here is a video I watched this morning! It’s really long and really good. The person is basically doing a liveblog/review of She Ra, and they go into the subversiveness of it all at a few points.  

I had a youtube comment, and it was such an in-depth response that I want to share it here as well: 

“You're absolutely correct. This show is way, WAY better than it had any right to be; one of the most cohesive and well-written things I've seen, and yet, I dismissed it for all this time because it came from Netflix, which is notorious for a huge decline in quality after the first season!!!

When you were talking about Hordak, and how you didnt think that making us sympathise with him would work, and then you gradually evolved to sympathising with him more and more... I think it's a good example of how the show subverts not only the expectations of how we think a story SHOULD go, but our own expectations of how we WANT it to go. How the way we've consumed media in the past gives ourselves enormous biases, and we just decide something shouldn't work, not because of its innate quality but because of the VALUES we've developed on what a story should say, values that do not need to be there. The villains of She-Ra, from the goodhearted Scorpia to the sadistic Hordak to the manipulative Catra, they're all massively sympathetic in some way, and we are able to put aside our more generic moral judgements to want them to get better, if not redeemed then at least seeing a way to escape whatever misguided complexes they've wrapped themselves in.    

Here are some ways that I think She-Ra was enormously subversive and used its characters greatly:  

1. Immediately, despite being contrasted with Catra, Glimmer was not delegated to being the "good friend" to Catra's "bad friend" like I expected her to be (cough Owl House cough). She wasn't sidelined like a character in her position so often is. In fact, she became a protagonist in her own right - she was the AntiHero of season 4. It's so refreshing to see a princess, a girl covered in glitter, end up playing the Lancer, someone who contrasts strongly against the purehearted protagonist. And yet we always understand that her motivations are heroic. There's a point where Glimmer is a clearer reflection of Catra than Adora ever was.  

2. Scorpia's character is usually relegated to being either just The Muscle, or The Idiot, but Scorpia has her own motivations and wants and arc. She has her own compelling story.   I particularly love how she embraces her heritage and everyone starts emotionally supporting her like how she has been doing to them.  

3. Entrapta is the character who's often either relegated to "the tech member", or used as a one-time villain before getting ditched, but the way the show moves her around and has her interacting with all sides of the war, causing chaos as a third party observer who is just trying to get to the heart of matters, while also giving her a compelling arc.... Entrapta with all her imperfections/struggles embodies the heart of the show, the embracing of humanity in places where people would oppress it, and she serves as the clearest foil to Horde Prime's religious leviathan cult. (She is my favourite - I had been burned by best character Peridot getting sent away to the Farm in Steven Universe, and was happy Entrapta stayed important.)

4. Adora''s entire character is a breakdown of the "Chosen One" archetype. Adora's choices to do The Right Thing are on the face value very heroic, but once you understand more about her, you realise that she's been groomed into the position, and that it's no good for her; Shadow Weaver raised her to be a cutthroat warrior who puts aside all her own needs to fight in the name of Justice, and she does that as soon as she joins the Rebellion. Adora was taught that other people's mistakes were her fault, if tehy got hurt it was because she's not good enough, and her role as She-Ra only reinforces these insecurities. Slowly she realises where she's gone wrong,  but it's not until Catra joins her and reprimands her for doing what she thought was heroic that Adora starts to realise she doesn't WANT to be the hero who sacrifices everything for everyone else.  

5. Continuing on from this, Adora's role as She-Ra actually having been stolen by her own people, Adora finding out that the supposed "heroic destiny" was in fact one of destroying the universe, not healing Etheria. The twist that "restoring balance to the planet" will actually destroy it? That the sword had been repressing She-Ra's true power?  And yet, the understanding that the First Ones weren't exactly evil, they were humans like us, trying to do the human thing when defending against an impossible foe?  Fucking masterclass.  

6. The inversion of courage, selfrighteousness and selflessness into negative traits, and villainy and selfishness into positive characteristics. Adora's heroism and Glimmer's self assuredness make them very dangerous people when these tendencies are not controlled. Meanwhile, Catra's selfishness and disregard for the "right thing" ends up being exactly what Adora needs in order to save her from her self-destructive hero complex.  Scorpia is the villain mook but her determination in protecting Catra makes her a good person. Entrapta is heavily villain-coded with her mask, madness, and her robots, but her ability to love even robots makes her probably the most empathetic character in the show.  And Hordak, ever so violent and evil and yet human in the first few seasons, embraces exactly these parts of himself when he realises that they separated him from Prime, casting Prime into the darkness.

7. The inversion/rejection of the typical redemption arc - Shadow Weaver is the best example of this. She goes through all the beats of what you would normally get in a redemption storyline, but she never actually changes as a person, and everyone knows she is still horrible. But at the same time, she's still very human, and has some self awareness of it all. Shadow Weaver just doesn't think it's worth the effort to become a better person, it's much easier to stay awful and grab for power, and it's not until the finale that she realises this is a very unsatisfying existence.  

There is a reason that it is only the Horde, Horde Prime, and the First ones, who use retributive justice as a means of punishment. She-Ra challenges our values of Good and Bad, using our heroes and villains to deconstruct them in their entirety. The villains deliver the harsh retribution that completely dehumanizes the people getting punished. The heroes deliver a far more personal and effective kind of response - rejection, maybe even containment, but never pain.  

"All beings must suffer to become pure" - the idea is presented as extremely sickening, cultish,  puritanical Christian. The idea that to "make up" for what you did you need to die or something.  

The character who chooses to do this is Shadow Weaver, and there's a reason everyone says she never had a redemption arc. Shadow Weaver had decided she was beyond growth, even though she had ALL THE BEATS of a redemption arc. she was unable to become anything better, so she did that One Good Thing instead, knowing she was going to die a monster, hoping maybe that people remember her for a bit more.

Hordak doesn't get a redemption arc of any kind - he is, instead, free to become his own person. And She-Ra respects that, because that's what she's been fighting for this entire show, without even realising it.”

[panthera-tigris-venenata]

Look, @idontliketomatoesleavemealone I wrote the freaking essay-

Auradon: Kingdom of Love

AKA my take as to why I think the wondrous United States of Auradon are drugging its citizens. With the Hormone of Love. Because I apparently have nothing better to do. Anyway.

Oxytocin, also called the hormone of love, is a chemical that can be found naturally in the human body (it’s produced in hypothalamus, which is a part of the brain), but can also be manufactured pharmaceutically.

And its effects? The physical side aside, it makes people happy. Trusting. Defensive of their own. And when you think of it, that’s exactly what Auradon needs and stands for.

Also, oxytocin is currently available in pharmaceutical form. It can be inhaled as aerosol or it is soluble in water. So, y'know, the perfect mind-controlling drug for this particular fairy tale dystopia, especially as it induces pleasant feelings and care-taking and protective behavior.

And the simple fact that it's called „Hormone of Love“ makes it Auradon’s drug of choice and you can fight me on this.

It all started very early on, really. Even before Auradon did.

Why?

Simple.

Creating an union this big? Entering it with an uncertain future and placing trust in a single leader, the one who proposed the idea, no less?

That does require some trust, doesn’t it?

And, well, guess what oxytocin does. Yes, you got it, it makes people feel safe, happy and trusting. More willing to make the leap and assume the risk they are undertaking is worth it and safe. How could it not be? Everyone seems worthy of your trust when you are high on the hormone of love.

And this is the story of how High King Beast poured oxytocin into the air conditioning when the negotiations about creating Auradon were going on.

This is the story of how he continued to do so, as Auradon formed and the idea of the Isle of the Lost was proposed. The heroes agreed instantly. The villains were a threat and they needed to protect their own: Their lovers, their parents, their children. All the innocents of their respective lands.

„Oxytocin increases positive attitudes such as bonding towards individuals with similar characteristics, who then become classified as „in-group“ whereas individuals who are dissimilar become classified as „out-group“ members.“

Now, do not get me wrong: The desire to protect was already there. They are heroes, after all. But with some extra oxytocin messing with their brain chemistry… The desire grew bigger. The divide between heroes and villains, too. two clear groups were formed, in the beginning. „We“ the heroes, and „They“ the villains. 

And for Our safety, They had to go. 

The drug only pushed the idea over the edge, to real life.

And if the photos and tales of the Isle leak? Well, people high on oxytocin recognize the pain of others differently. If the people in pain are different from them, their pain is of less significance. Of no matter.

And what could be a greater divide than the one between Good and Bad?

Furthermore, higher levels of oxytocin make people more likely to lie to protect their own. Hence everyone looking the other side and pretending that „Even villains love their kids.“

People influenced by oxytocin also tend to subtly align their moral values with their group. Just saying.

(And why, yes, the relentless propaganda does play a part in this, thank you.)

Now, let’s take a quick detour on how would too much oxytocin affect society of Auradon itself:

First off, oxytocin encourages monogamous behavior. In other words, if a person is in a relationship, they are more likely to keep their distance from other people. (The study I read said that males [high on oxytocin and in relationship] tended to put extra distance between themselves and other potential partners.)

And, like, have you seen Auradon? They vibe with this so hard it’s not even funny, with their One True Love and whatnot.

Furthermore, oxytocin affects fear response, differently in males and females, potentially because of its interaction with female sex hormones. Anyway, to be clear. It makes women more fearful when encountering previously traumatic situations/visuals  (Have you seen Queen Leah completely freaking out on family day, people?) and generally more likely to act as damsels in distress, while men are encouraged to take the fearless stance. 

Tbh, I’m not sure if I read that paper right, as it was too much science lingo for me and it was not in my native language, but that’s what I got.

And again, based on the sexist norms from D2 for example, I feel like King Beast vibes with that.

Oxytocin also acts as an antidepressant. No sad people in Auradon, nope. Everyone is happy here!

Now, let’s theorize that sub-groups were formed within Auradon. Different nations, who did not trust each other as much as they did their High King. Cut to 16 years old Ben traveling accompanied only by his 16 years old bodyguard Lonnie to solve what is essentially an argument about olives and traffic regulations.

Ok, too many detours.

VKs now.

When they arrive in Auradon, they feel safe. Happy. Trusting. Immediately, they think: „Something is wrong.“

Maybe they will figure it out, eventually. Maybe Mal or Evie cast a spell that allows them to see the unusually high levels of this particular hormone in their bodies. or maybe Carlos falls into an internet rabbit hole of conspiracy theories and hacks into a secret government website, uncovering the secret that should have stayed buried. (@dragoneyes618)

But in the meantime, their allegiances shift. From the Isle to Auradon.

We see that with Core 4, over the course of the franchise, and we see this with Freddie Facilier in School of Secrets and Wicked World.

(We don’t see this with CJ Hook, because she is a paranoid little minx, a daughter of a pirate. She has been boiling all her drinking water (accidentally destroying the drug in the process), because for pirates, water is generally unsafe to drink.)

(We do not see this with Uma, a sea witch with affinity for water, who might have sensed something is wrong, even if she didn’t know what, and we don’t see this with Harry, Gil and Celia, who have not been in Auradon long enough. Their loyalty is true-won.)

Ok, massive kudos to everyone who finished this. You have my respect.

[pumpkinpaix]

Pleeeeeeease get into the class one at some point because I very much want to understand the class dynamics happening in the story but I have yet to find a meta that dives into it

god anon you want me dead don’t you alsjdfljks

referring to this post

okay, so -- my specific salt about class interpretations in mdzs are very targeted. I can’t pretend to have a deep understanding of how class works in mdzs generally because uhhhhh yeah i don’t think i have that. i’m just not familiar enough with the genre and/or the particulars of chinese class systems. but! i can talk in general terms as to why I feel a certain way about the class dynamics that I do think I understand and how I think they relate to the themes of the novel! i’m gonna talk about wei wuxian, the daozhangs, xue yang, and 3zun with, I’m sure, a bunch of digressions along the way.

the usual disclaimers: i do not think you are a bad person if you hold opinions contrary to my own. i may disagree with you very strongly, but like. this isn’t a moral judgment, fandom is transformative and interpretive etc. etc. and i may change my mind. who knows what the future will bring!

OKAY so let’s begin!

here’s the thing about wei wuxian: he’s not poor. I think because characters use “son of a servant” kind of often when they’re trying to insult him, a lot of people latch onto that and think that it’s a much stronger indication of his societal status than it actually is. iirc, most of the insults that fall along the “son of a servant” line come after wei wuxian starts breaking severely from tradition. it’s a convenient thing to attack him for, but doesn’t actually indicate anything about his wealth. (exception: yu ziyuan, but that’s a personal familial issue) this is in direct contrast to jin guangyao who is constantly mocked for his family line, publicly and privately, no matter what he does.

so this, coupled with all the jokes about wwx never having any money (wei wuqian, sizhui’s “i’ve long since known you had no money” etc.), plus his like, rough years on the street as a child ends up producing this interpretation of wei wuxian, especially in modern aus, as someone who is very class conscious and “eat the rich”. but the fact of the matter is, wei wuxian IS rich. aside from the years in his childhood and the last two years of his life in yiling, like -- wei wuxian had money and status. he is gentry. he is respected as gentry. he is treated as a son by the sect leader of yunmeng jiang -- he does not have the jiang name, but it is so very clear that jiang fengmian favors him. wei wuxian is ranked fourth of all the eligible young masters in the cultivation world -- that is not a ranking he could have attained without being accepted into the upper class.

wei wuxian’s poverty does not affect him in the way that it affects jin guangyao or xue yang. he is of low-ish birth (still the son of jiang fengmian’s right hand man though! ok sure, “son of a servant” but like. >_> whatever anyways), but for most of his life he had money. he, jiang cheng, and their sect brothers go into town and steal lotus pods with the understanding that “jiang-shushu will pay for it”. this is a regular thing! that’s fucking rich kid behavior!!! wei wuxian is careless with money because he doesn’t have to worry about it. he still has almost all the benefits of being upper class: education, food security, respect, recognition etc. I think there may also be a misconception that wei wuxian was always on the verge of being kicked out by yu ziyuan, or that he was constantly walking on eggshells around her for fear of being disowned, but that is just textually untrue. i could provide receipts, but I admittedly don’t really feel like digging them up just now ;;

even in his last years in yiling, he was not the one who was dealing with the acute knowledge of poverty: wen qing is the one managing the money, and as far as we know, wei wuxian did little to no management of daily life during the burial mounds days -- mostly, he’s described as hiding in his cave for days on end, working on his inventions, running around like a force of chaos, frivolously making a mess of things -- it’s very very cute that he buries a’yuan in the dirt, but in classic wei wuxian fashion, he did Not think about the practical consequences of it -- that A’Yuan has no other clean clothes, and now he’s gotten this set dirty and has no intention of washing them. is this a personality thing? yeah, but I think it’s also indicative of his lack of concern over the logistics of everyday survival, re: wealth.

furthermore, i think it is important to remember that wei wuxian, when he is protecting the wen remnants, is not protecting common folk: he is still protecting gentry. fallen gentry, yes! but gentry nonetheless. wen qing was favored by wen ruohan, and wen ning himself says that he has a retinue of people under his command (the remnants, essentially). their branch of the family do not have the experience of living and growing in poverty -- they are impoverished and persecuted in their last years, but that’s a very different thing from being impoverished your whole life. (sidenote: I do not believe wei wuxian’s primary motivation for defending the wen remnants was justice -- i believe he did it because he felt he owed wen ning and wen qing a life debt, and once he was there, he wasn’t going to stand around and let the work camps go on. yes, he is concerned about justice and doing the right thing, but that’s not why he went in the first place. anyways, that’s another meta)

after wei wuxian returns, he then marries back into gentry, and very wealthy gentry at that. lwj provides him all the money he could ever want, he is never worried about going homeless, starving, being denied opportunities based on his class and accompanying disadvantages. who would dare? and neither wei wuxian nor lan wangji seem to have much interest in shaking up the order of things, except in little things like the way they teach the juniors. they live in gusu, under the auspices of the lan, and they live a happy, domestic life.

were his years on the street traumatizing? yes, of course they were, there’s so much delicious character exploration to be done re: wei wuxian’s relationship to food, his relationship to his own needs, and his relationship to the people he loves. it’s all important and good! but I feel very strongly that that experience, while it was formative for him, did not impart any true understanding of poverty and the common person’s everyday struggles, nor do I think he ever really gains that understanding. he is observant and canny and aware of class and blood, certainly, but not in a way that makes it his primary hill to die on (badum-tss).

this is in very stark contrast to characters like jin guangyao and xue yang, and to some extent, xiao xingchen and song lan. I’ll start with the daozhangs, because I think they’re the simplest (??).

I think both xiao xingchen and song lan have class consciousness, but in a very simplified, broad-strokes kind of way (at least, given the information we know about them). we know that the two of them share similar values and want to one day form their own sect that gives no weight to the nobility of your lineage and has no concern with your wealth. we also know that they both disdain intersect politics and are more concerned with ideals and principles rather than status. but, I think because of that, this actually somewhat limits their perception and understanding of how status is used to oppress. as far as we know, neither of them participated on any side in sunshot and they demonstrate much more interest in relating to the commoners. honestly, i hc that they were flitting around trying to help decimated towns, protecting defenseless villages etc. I ALSO think this has a lot of interesting potential in terms of xiao xingchen and wei wuxian’s relationship, if xiao xingchen is ever revived. regardless of whether you’re in CQL or novel verse, xiao xingchen really doesn’t know wei wuxian at all, other than knowing that he’s his shijie’s son. he knows that cangse-sanren met with a tragic end, like yanling-daoren before her, and that he wants to be different. but here is cangse-sanren’s son, laying waste to entire cities, desecrating the dead. I would very much like to get into xiao xingchen’s head during that period of time (and i think, if i do it right, i can write some of it into the songxiao fixit), but that’s neither here nor there, because i’ve wandered off from my point again.

i would posit that song lan is used to an ascetic lifestyle, and xiao xingchen probably is too -- but that’s different from poverty because there’s an element of choice to it. I also think that neither of them is particularly worldly, xiao xingchen especially. he lived on an isolated mountain until he was like, seventeen, and he came down full of ideals and naivete about how the world worked. I think that both of them see inequality, that they are angered by it, and that they want to do something about it -- but their solution is neither to topple the sects, nor is it to reform the system. rather, it seems to be more about withdrawing and creating their own removed world. I think that the daozhangs embody a kind of utopianism that isn’t present in the minds of any of the other characters, not even wangxian. honestly, baoshan-sanren’s mountain is a utopian ideal, but one that is not described. it exists outside of and beyond the world. i have a lot of jumbled, vague thoughts about utopianism generally, mostly informed by china miéville and ursula k. le guin, and I don’t think i have the ability to articulate them here, but i wanted to. hm. say something? there is something about the inherent dystopianism contained within every utopia, that utopias are necessary, but also reflections of the existence of terrible things in their conception. idk. there’s something in there, I know it!! but i suppose what I want to say is -- i do not think the daozhangs understand class and social hierarchy very deeply because they don’t see a need to examine it deeply. for their goals, the details aren’t the point. they’re not looking to reform within the system, they’re looking to build something outside of it. I think they spend a lot of time concerned with alleviating the symptoms of social oppression, and their values reflect the injustices they witness there.

regardless, even if their story ends in tragedy and there is a certain amount of critique re: the utopian approach, i think the text still emphasizes that xiao xingchen left a utopia and that he thought that people mattered enough for him to try, and that was an incredibly honorable, kind, and human thing to do.

YEAH SURE THE DAOZHANGS ARE THE SIMPLEST ok ok RETURNING to class and moving forward: xue yang.

i also don’t think xue yang has class consciousness lol, or not in any way that really matters, but I do think poverty impacted him in a much stronger way than it impacted wei wuxian. wei wuxian spent some years on the street as a child. xue yang grew up on the streets. chang ci’an’s horrific treatment of him was directly due to his class and social standing: chang ci’an is a nobleman and xue yang is not even worth the dirt beneath the wheels of his cart. what I think is the seminal point though, is that this does not make xue yang think particularly deeply about systemic injustice, because xue yang is so self-centered, self-driven, and individualistic. he is not even slightly concerned about how poverty and class might affect other people -- they’re other people. what he takes away from his experience is not an anger at being wrongfully cheated by a system, but an anger at being wrongfully cheated by a specific man.

xue yang is not particularly concerned with the politics of the aristocracy -- he has no obvious ambitions other than, “i want to eat sweets whenever i please”, “i want to hurt anyone who wrongs me”, and “i want to be so strong that no one can hurt me”. like, he just doesn’t care -- it’s not the kind of power he wants. he sneers at people for like, personal reasons, not class reasons -- “you think you’re better than me” re: xiao xingchen and song lan. to him, all people -- poor, wealthy, noble, common -- are essentially equal, and they are all beneath him. after all, what does he care what family someone comes from, how much money they have? everyone bleeds when you cut them. some of them might be harder to get to than others, but xue yang does not fear that sort of thing. it’s just another obstacle he needs to vault on his way to getting revenge and/or a pastry.

ANYWAYS onto jin guangyao (wow this is hm. getting rather long ahaha oh dear): I would argue that the two characters with the most acute understanding of class/societal politics and the injustice of them are jin guangyao and lan xichen. i’ll start with jin guangyao for obvious reasons.

where xue yang took the damaging effects of poverty as personal slights, I think jin guangyao is painfully aware that there is nothing personal about them, which is, in some ways, much worse. why are two sons, born on the same day to the same father, treated so differently? just because.

he watched his mother struggle and starve and work herself to the bone in a profession where she was constantly disrespected and abused for almost nothing in return, while his father could have lifted her out of poverty with the wave of a finger. why didn’t he? because he didn’t like her? no -- because he didn’t care, and the structures of the society they live in protect that kind of blase treatment of the lower class.

“so my mother couldn’t choose her own fate, is that her fault?” jin guangyao demands. he knows that he is unbelievably talented, that he has ambition, that he has potential, and that all of it is beyond his grasp just because his father didn’t want to bother with it. his mother’s life was destroyed, and his own opportunities were crippled with that negligence. it isn’t personal. that’s just the way things are. your individual identity is meaningless, your humanity does not exist. when he’s kicked down the steps of jinlin tai, it’s just more confirmation that no matter how talented or hardworking he is, no one will give him the time of day unless he finds a way to take it himself and become someone who “matters”.

jin guangyao’s cultivation is weak because he had a poor foundation, and he had a poor foundation because he was denied access to a good one. he copies others because that’s all he can do at this point, and he copies so well that he can hold his own against some of the strongest cultivators of his generation. he’s disparaged for copying and “stealing” techniques, but -- he never would have had to if only he had been born/accepted into the upper class. the fact is that i really do think jin guangyao was the most promising cultivator of his generation that we meet, including the twin jades and wei wuxian: he had natural talent, ambition, creativity, determination and cunning in spades. in some ways, I think that’s one of the overlooked tragedies of jin guangyao: the loss of not just the good man he could have been, but the powerful one too. imagine what he could have done.

jin guangyao spends his entire time in the world of the aristocracy feeling unsteady and terrified because he knows exactly how precarious his position is. he knows how easy it is to lose power, especially for someone like him. he’s working against so many disadvantages, and every scrap of honor he gets is a vicious battle. jin guangyao fears, and I think that’s something that’s lacking in xue yang, wei wuxian and the daozhangs’ experiences/understandings of poverty. i think it’s precisely that fear that emphasizes jin guangyao’s understanding of class and blood. jin guangyao exhibits an anxiety that neither wei wuxian nor xue yang do, and it’s because he truly knows how little he is worth in the eyes of society and how little there is he can do to change that. to me, it very much feels related to the anxiety of not knowing if tomorrow you’ll have something to eat, if tomorrow you’ll still have a home, if tomorrow someone will destroy you and never have to answer for it. it’s the anxiety of knowing helplessness intimately.

moreover, jin guangyao is the only person shown to use the wealth and power at his disposal to take concrete steps to actually help the common people typically ignored by the powerful -- the watchtowers. they’re described in chapter 42. it’s a system that is designed to cover remote areas that most cultivators are reluctant to go due to their inconvenience and the lack of means of the people who live there. the watchtowers assign cultivators to different posts, give aid to those previously forgotten, and if the people are too poor to pay what the cultivators demand, the lanling jin sect pays for it. jin guangyao worked on this for five years and burned a lot of bridges over it. people were strongly opposed to it, thinking that it was some kind of ploy for lanling jin’s personal benefit. but the thing is -- it worked. they were effective. people were helped.

i believe CQL frames the watchtowers as an allegory for a surveillance state/centralized control (i think?? it’s been a minute -- that’s the hazy impression i remember, something like a parallel to the wen supervisory offices?), but I personally don’t think that was the intent in the novel. the watchtowers are a public good. lanling jin doesn’t staff them with their own sect members -- they get nearby sects to staff them. it’s a warning network that they fund that’s supposed to benefit everyone, even those that everyone had considered expendable.

(did jin guangyao do terrible things to achieve this goal? yeah lol. it’s not confirmed, but his son sure did die... suspiciously...... at the hands of an outspoken critic of the watchtowers........ whom he then executed....... so like, maybe just a convenient coincidence for jin guangyao, two birds one stone, but. it seems. Unlikely.)

lan xichen is the only member of the gentry that ever shows serious compassion for and nuanced understanding of jin guangyao’s circumstances. lan xichen treats him as his equal regardless of jin guangyao’s current status -- even when he was meng yao, lan xichen treated him as a human being worthy of respect, as someone with great merits, as someone he would choose as a friend, but he did so knowing full well the delicate position meng yao occupied. this is in direct contrast to nie mingjue, who also believed that meng yao was worthy of respect as a human being, but was completely unable to comprehend the complexities of his circumstances and unwilling to grant him any grace. you know, the difference between “i acknowledge that your birth and status have had effects upon you, but I don’t think less of you for it” and “i don’t consider your birth and status at all when i interact with you because i think it is irrelevant” (“i don’t see color” anyone?)

to illustrate, from chapter 48:

大抵是觉得娼妓之子身上说不定也带着什么不干净的东西，这几名修士接过他双手奉上来的茶盏后，并不饮下，而是放到一边，还取出雪白的手巾，很难受似的，有意无意反复擦拭刚才碰过茶盏的手指。聂明玦并非细致之人，未曾注意到这种细节，魏无羡却用眼角余光扫到了这些。孟瑶视若未见，笑容不坠半分，继续奉茶。蓝曦臣接过茶盏之时，抬眸看他一眼，微笑道：“多谢。”

旋即低头饮了一口，这才继续与聂明玦交谈。旁的修士见了，有些不自在起来。

rough tl:

Probably because they believed that the son of a prostitute might also carry some unclean things upon his person, after these few cultivators took the teacups offered from [Meng Yao’s] two hands, they did not drink, but instead put them to one side, and furthermore brought out snow white handkerchiefs. Quite uncomfortably, and whether they were aware of it or not, they repeatedly wiped the fingers they had just used to touch the teacups. Nie Mingjue was not a detail-oriented person and never took note of such particulars, but Wei Wuxian caught these in the corner of his eye. Meng Yao appeared as if he had not seen, his smile unwavering in the slightest, and continued to serve tea. When Lan Xichen took the teacup, he glanced up at him and, smiling, said, “Thank you.”

He immediately dipped his head to take a sip, and only then continued to converse with Nie Mingjue. Seeing this, the nearby cultivators began to feel somewhat uneasy.

all right, since we’re in full cyan-rampaging-through-the-weeds mode at this point, i’m going to talk about how this is one of my favorite 3zun moments in the entire novel for characterization purposes because it really highlights how they all relate to one another, and to what degree each of them is aware of their own position in relation to the others and society as a whole.

1. nie mingjue, who is a forthright and blunt person, sets meng yao to serving tea and is done with it. he notices nothing wrong or inappropriate about the reactions of the people in the room because it’s not the sort of thing he considers important.

2. meng yao, knowing that his only avenue is to take it lying down with a smile, masks perfectly.

3. lan xichen, noticing all this, uses his own reputation to achieve two things at once: pointedly shame the other cultivators in attendance, and show meng yao that regardless of others’ opinions, he considers him an equal and does not endorse such behavior--and he does it while taking care that no fallout will come down on meng yao’s head.

is this yet another installment of cyan’s endless lxc defense thesis? why yes it is! no one is surprised! but this is my whole point: both meng yao and lan xichen understand the respective hierarchy and power dynamics within the room, while nie mingjue very much does not. this is not because nie mingjue is a bad person or because nie mingjue is stupid--it’s a combination of personality and upbringing. nie mingjue is straightforward and has no patience for such games. but then again, he can afford not to play because he was born into such a high position: that’s a privilege.

to break it down: meng yao knows that he is the lowest-ranked person in the room, sees the way people are subtly disrespecting him in full view of his general who is doing nothing about it. in some ways, this is good -- nie mingjue’s style of dealing with conflict is very direct and not at all suited to delicate political maneuvering. after all, the way he promoted meng yao was actually quite dangerous to meng yao: he essentially guaranteed that his men would bear meng yao a grudge and that their disrespect for him would only be compounded by their bitterness at being punished on his behalf. (it’s like, why often getting parents or teachers to intervene ineffectively in bullying can just be an incitement to more bullying -- same concept) meng yao’s reaction during that scene shows that he’s pretty painfully aware of this and is trying to defuse the situation to no avail. nie mingjue gives him a bootstrap speech (rip nie mingjue i love u so much but. sir) and then promotes him, which is pretty much the only saving grace of that entire exchange, for meng yao at least.

lan xichen, on the other hand, understands both that meng yao is the lowest-ranked person in the room and that any direct attempt to chastise the other cultivators in the room will only serve to hurt meng yao in the long run. he knows that if this were brought to nie mingjue’s attention, he would be outraged and not shy about it -- also bad for meng yao. so he uses what he has: his immaculate reputation. by acting contrary to the other cultivators’ behavior, he demonstrates that he finds their actions unacceptable but with the plausible deniability that it wasn’t directed at them, that this is just zewu-jun being his usual generous self. this means that the other cultivators have no one to blame but themselves, nothing to do but question their own actions. there is nowhere to cast off their discomfort. meng yao didn’t do anything. lan xichen didn’t do anything -- he just thanked meng yao and drank his tea, isn’t that what it’s there for? he doesn’t disrupt the peace, he doesn’t attack anyone and put them on the defensive, but he does make his position very clear.

i know this is a really small thing and i’m probably beating it to death, but I really think this shows just how cognizant lan xichen is of politics and emotional cause and effect in such situations. certainly, out of context I think the scene reads kind of cliche, but within the greater narrative of the story and within the arc of these characters specifically, I think it was a really smart scene to include. it also showcases lan xichen’s style of action: that he moves around and with a problematic situation as opposed to moving straight through.

not to be salty on main again, but this is why it’s very frustrating to me when I see people call lan xichen passive when he is anything but. his actions just don’t look like traditional “actions”, especially to an american audience. it’s easy to understand lan wangji and wei wuxian’s style of problem-solving: taking a stand, moving through, staying strong. lan xichen is juggling an inconceivable number of factors in any given situation, weighing his responsibilities in one role against those in another, and then trying to find the path through the thicket that will cause the least harm, both to himself and the thicket. lan wangji and wei wuxian are not particularly good at considering the far-reaching consequences of their actions -- again, not because they are bad people, but because of a combination of personality and upbringing. they’d just hack through the thicket, not thinking about the creatures that live in it. that is not a terrible thing! it isn’t. it’s a different way of approaching a problem, and it has different priorities. that’s okay. there are advantages and disadvantages on both sides, and where you come down is going to depend on your personal values.

okay we’ve spiraled far and away from my original point, but let’s circle back: i was talking about class.

I think it’s undeniable that class, birthright, fate etc. are some of the driving forces of thematic conflict in mdzs, and the way each character interacts with those forces reveals a lot about themselves and also about the larger themes of fate, chance, and what it means to be righteous and good and how that is and isn’t rewarded. a lot of the tragedy of mdzs (the tragedy that isn’t caused by direct aggression on the part of one group or another) stems from the injustices and slights that people suffered due to their lot in life. it isn’t fair. none of it is fair! we sympathize with jin guangyao because we recognize that what he suffered was unconscionable, even if we don’t excuse him. i sympathize A Lot with xue yang as well for similar reasons, though I understand that’s a harder sell. this is a story focused on the mistakes of an entrenched, aging gentry and the effects that those mistakes had on their children, and a lot of it has to do with prejudice based in class and birth status. whether the prejudice was the true reason or whether it was just a convenient excuse, the fact remains that the systems in place rewarded and protected the people in power who used it to cling to that power. mdzs is also a story of how the circumstances of one’s life can offer you impossible choices that you cannot abstain from, and it asks us to be compassionate to the people who made terrible choices in terrible times. it’s about the inherent complexity in all things! that sometimes, there are no good choices, and i don’t know, i’d like to think that people would show me compassion if I had to make the choices some of these characters did. not just wei wuxian, mind you, every single one of them. except jin guangshan because I Do Hate Him sorry. and i guess wen ruohan. i think that’s it.

good. GOD this is clocking in at //checks notes -- just over 5k. 8′D *stuffs some weeds into my mouth like the clown i am*

(ko-fi? :’D *lies down*)

[undertale-data]

[Image Description: An Undertale chat box that has “WHY FANS LOVE UNDERTALE” at its center. Next to it are a line chart and an Egg from the Dating Hub on its left, and a CRIME measurer (also from the Dating Hub) on its right. End I.D.]

[Image Description: a pie chart titled, “LEVEL OF LOVE FOR UNDERTALE.” The textbox on the top right reads, “On a scale of 1 to 10, 1 being the least and 10 being the highest, how much do fans enjoy Undertale?” From the top going clockwise, 12 or 0% chose 5 and below; 23 or 1% chose 6; 98, or 4%, chose 7; 325, or 12%, chose 8; 529, or 20%, chose 9; and 1664, or 63%, chose 10. End I.D.]

It’s clear from all of the data analyzed so far that fans who took the time to answer our survey love Undertale. It is unlikely that they would have taken the time to answer so many questions if they had not, and even less likely that they would have come across our survey in the first place. Naturally, it comes as no surprise that 63% of our responders gave their love for Undertale a score of ten out of ten. 95% gave their love for Undertale a score of eight or higher, and only 12 responders responded with five or below, a number so small that their responses had to be lumped together to be visible on the pie chart. Of those, only 3 responders gave their love for Undertale a score of 1, and based on those responders’ other answers, it is likely that they were only intending to troll. We are very fortunate that the vast majority of responders took the survey seriously, enough so that responses like this are barely a blip in the data.

Now, for our final analysis post of the event, we will delve into the reasons that fans love Undertale so dearly.

(Essay and highlights under the cut.)

There have been countless essays on the impact that Undertale has had on people’s lives. I can hardly add more on the subject than what has already been said, but I hope this summary can provide a brief overview of what stood out among the over two thousand answers given in response to this survey. That said, due to the sheer volume of answers, I could not read every single one in depth—however, I did skim all of them, and some that stood out or were representative of several responses have been highlighted below. If you would like to see what every fan who consented to share their response had to say, you may view the full list of responses here. Note that these responses have not been edited in any way. This document may take a long time to load, as it is over 100 pages long.

(Warnings for mentions of suicidal thoughts in the following essay.)

Several responders loved the theme of choices mattering in Undertale. Whether people played the pacifist, merciless, or neutral routes, they enjoyed how the game reacted to their actions. For some, it even made them consider their own morality. One touching response explained the impact that the theme of mercy made on them. “I realized that Mercy isn't something that's given to those who deserve it. Flowey didn't deserve it. I don't deserve it myself. Shoot, we ALL need Mercy in our lives.” Many fans left similar comments about how the themes of Undertale made them better people.

Undertale changed how its fans treat others, and it also changed how fans treat themselves. The theme of staying determined and the messages of hope in the game were a light to a very large portion of fans. I cannot list all of the fans who said that Undertale helped them out of a dark place, or that they would not be alive if not for Undertale. “DETERMINATION became a metaphor for not killing myself at a really rough time in my life and I’ll always cherish that. Undertale isn’t afraid to go to really dark places but at the same time holds on so tight to its hope.”

Undertale brought fans together in unexpected ways. Some said they met friends or significant others through the fandom. “I wouldn't have met my now husband without Undertale,” one fan said. A different fan who is non-native English speaking mentioned that the game and the fan community helped them to learn English.

It would be impossible to discuss Undertale without mentioning the fan community. Whether for good or bad, many responders mentioned the fandom in their responses. Overall the feelings towards the fandom seem positive, though many made references to “toxic” parts of the fandom without specifying which parts they consider toxic. Others rejected the idea of toxicity in fandom. One response said: “[SLAMS FIST ON DESK] I KNOW MOST PEOPLE SAY THE FANDOM IS TOXIC AND CRINGE OR WHATEVER BUT OH MY GOD. The Undertale fandom, both the UTMV and the actual UT fandom, has been so much fun to be a part of. I've met countless friends because of our shared interest in something related to the game! The art people create can be breathtaking and so inspirational, and the fanfics are so so good!! I've seen people write incredible things for this fandom and it's what made me continue writing!”

One thing that makes the Undertale fandom unique is the way it embraces various AUs. Some fans are tired of AU content, but the majority of responses show a love for the creativity behind AUs. “Roll your eyes at the 50th AU Sans all you want, it's encouraging people to step outside the boundaries of fanart and pushing people to make their own ideas! I mean, hell, it was how I gained the confidence to start making my own original content.” The lack of a judgemental atmosphere seems present in the AU community, according to the responses we saw. There is an interesting balance between AU and canon (sometimes referred to as “classic”) content that another responder pointed out: “The fandom helped keep the game alive all these years, with all of its AUs. Although personally, I always enjoyed AUs that kept characters as close to the classic material as possible (dancetale, outertale) I do appreciate the creativity of the fandom. They almost created entirely new stories with new characters of their own! If it weren't for those people, the Undertale fandom would have probably not been as active as it is now. I do feel like we're getting a resurgence of classic content now too! (In 2021)”

Regardless of the many AUs the fandom has created over the years, the original game of Undertale still feels like home for many fans. They wished they could reclaim the feeling of playing the game again for the first time, but even though we can’t reset time in real life, there is still a special feeling for fans each time they play Undertale. One fan said, “Even the best fics I've read can't capture that feeling of nostalgia/almost-"coming home" that comes with hearing the music and talking to the characters.” This feeling is one that can be cherished time and time again. In the words of another responder: “It always feels welcoming like home or like comfort food that I never grow tired of no matter how many times I go to it.” Others pointed out the strength of the found family trope in Undertale, which likely contributes to this feeling of “home” as well.

As mentioned briefly earlier, the music is part of what makes Undertale feel like home for fans. Even when responses focused on other aspects of the game, many would throw in a comment about the soundtrack at the end. One comment focused on the music said “IT'S SO GOOD like I will literally go through the entire thing over and over and not be bored with it. It makes my monkey brain so happy you have no idea.” Like with the game itself, the music has incredible replay value, an amazing feat considering most of the tracks use the same few motifs. “I think what I like the most about Undertale is how the music attaches you to the story,” another responder said. “They're simple melodies that stick with you throughout the whole game, and they can remind you of both good and bad times.”

If the music sticks with fans in their hearts, then the game’s lore sticks with fans in their minds. Even six years after the release of Undertale, fans are still creating new theories and digging up new secrets. The way the game breaks the fourth wall in particular intrigued many fans and has stuck out through all these years. The awareness that the game shows for the RPG genre makes it memorable. The game plays with the player’s expectations and turns them on their heads, all while reminding the player that they’re in a game. There are few other games that do this on such a large scale, so it’s no surprise that fans cite this as one of their favorite things about Undertale.

Lastly, the LGBT+ representation in Undertale has been a huge draw for fans. Especially in 2015, the sheer volume of non-cishet characters was unprecedented, as one fan pointed out: “It's practically unheard of to see so MANY from just one source, especially during its heyday in 2015-16. Hell, you can't even GET the true pacifist ending without helping two gay couples hook up. It's really nice to see all of them being accepted for who they are and not judged for their sexuality or gender, at least in-canon.” The LGBT+ cast including Frisk, Chara, Napstablook, Monster Kid, Mettaton, Alphys, and Undyne each connected with fans in unique ways. It’s clear how important this is from responses such as: “There are canon nonbinary characters 🥺. i have never seen representation of myself before.” “It made me gay and trans so thanks for that.”

Once again I am overwhelmed with just how much there is to say about Undertale. One responder really understood when they compared Undertale to an iceberg, explaining that there are so many layers to the game that there is something for everyone: “everyone can find something to enjoy in the lore/game regardless of what kind of fan they are! Being able to appeal to various types of fans—from simple happy shipper people to deep dive lorediggers—is the mark of the coolest games!” I would have to agree with them.

It’s been six years, and despite everything, it’s still you. Thank you for reading, participating in this survey, and above all, staying determined.

Highlights:

DETERMINATION became a metaphor for not killing myself at a really rough time in my life and I’ll always cherish that. Undertale isn’t afraid to go to really dark places but at the same time holds on so tight to its hope.

I think the coolest thing was having the opportunity to watch the AU community grow from its bare roots. It's nearly insane how big and complex it's gotten, unlike anything I'd ever seen before. Roll your eyes at the 50th AU Sans all you want, it's encouraging people to step outside the boundaries of fanart and pushing people to make their own ideas! I mean, hell, it was how I gained the confidence to start making my own original content.

i love how the lgbt rep is so naturalized... there are just gay people! and its nobodys business!

The music is my go to answer, but what I really really REALLY love is how the minor characters have so much personality to them when you talk to them. They aren't incredibly important to the overall story, but they're all so likeable and diverse that you just can't help but like them immediately!

I think it was the first videogame I have played that broke the fourth wall that much. Of course there has been other videogames that broke it but just for one or two tongue-in-cheek jokes. The guilt of killing mama goat was also something intense as well that I appreciated as an experience and that I didn't think a videogame could cause on someone.

I love how no character can be seen as completely bad! Everyone builds up Asgore as some horrible villain, but he turns out to be a 'fuzzy pushover' who's broken and just wants his family back by the time you meet him. Then you think Flowey's an irredeemable killer who engineered the suffering of the monsters across many timelines, and he is... but he also used to be the kind and beloved Prince Asriel Dreemurr, traumatized by his death and subsequent rebirth, projecting his best friend onto you.

The fact that choices matter in the game. Your first playthrough and getting the golden ending for the first time. I can never replicate those feelings again, wish I could erase my memories and replay the game from the start.

I wouldn't have met my now husband without Undertale.

(Toxic parts of the fandom aside) The community is possibly one of the kindest I've ever met. Cringe culture is completely dead, and I feel like I can be myself. I felt a very close connection to many of the characters, and I loved consuming content about them when I was in a rough patch in my life.

just everything, the whole game has just impacted my life so much. i know it sounds really lame, but when the game first came out, i would purposely put my hands in my pockets and sway slightly, like sans' idle animation. of course i dont do that anymore haha, but undertale still really impacts me to this day, and i wouldnt have it any other way :)

it made me gay and trans so thanks for that

I realized that Mercy isn't something that's given to those who deserve it. Flowey didn't deserve it. I don't deserve it myself. Shoot, we ALL need Mercy in our lives.

The thing I love most about Undertale is no matter how many times I play or watch a playthrough it always makes me genuinely happy. It always feels welcoming like home or like comfort food that I never grow tired of no matter how many times I go to it. Toriel still makes me feel all warm and cozy in her home, the Skelebros always make me laugh, and I still cry on the inside watching Frisk comforting Asriel. And on the flip side the No Mercy run still invokes the negative emotions in me as well. In short Undertale just feels like a second home to me and I always wish I could stay.

The reader inserts are my favorite way to decompress after a hard day

I think Undertale helped me discover my love for 8-bit games, and made me realize how IMPORTANT music is in video games.

the worldbuilding and character design are my favorite parts of the main game apart from the music! I’m also a huge fan of the random AU music- not for like underswap or underfell i like the stuff where someone makes a megalovania for a random au where gru from despicable me replaces sans as the character. i think its funny

Just... the vibe, honestly? Even the best fics I've read can't capture that feeling of nostalgia/almost-"coming home" that comes with hearing the music and talking to the characters.

there are canon nonbinary characters 🥺. i have never seen representation of myself before.

[SLAMS FIST ON DESK] I KNOW MOST PEOPLE SAY THE FANDOM IS TOXIC AND CRINGE OR WHATEVER BUT OH MY GOD. The Undertale fandom, both the UTMV and the actual UT fandom, has been so much fun to be a part of. I've met countless friends because of our shared interest in something related to the game! The art people create can be breathtaking and so inspirational, and the fanfics are so so good!! I've seen people write incredible things for this fandom and it's what made me continue writing!

There's a scene where Frisk (the player) is going towards what is presumably going to be their death. They will fight Asgore and he will use their human soul to break the barrier and free his people. The music, despite the player's impending doom, is... triumphant. You are not the triumphant one here, and yet, the score invites you to experience the monsters' joy and happiness as they tell you the tale of their subjugation. The monsters are going to be free. This is their victory, but they don't hate you or want you to die. They're just... happy. That scene has always struck me very deeply. I feel it represents the best parts of Undertale.

I loved how well thought out the Geno route was. It really made me feel like I was doing something horrible, and the characters were very obviously reacting to dire circumstances.

I dunno? I like Undertale for it's characters, story, music, secrets and many more. I am not good with Headcanons but I also like the neutral endings and how different they can depending on who you spare and kill

I was very bad at english before, i thought i couldn't progress because i was very shy and not confident. But my sibling and i wanted to have the best experience with this game so we wanted to play it in english. It's this game and the fandom which helped me to make huge progress in english !

THE SOUNDTRACK. IT'S SO GOOD like I will literally go through the entire thing over and over and not be bored with it. It makes my monkey brain so happy you have no idea.

to avoid writing an essay i will say one word. Mettaton

It is like Toby specifically made the games to fit the iceberg meme and it's awesome, everyone can find something to enjoy in the lore/game regardless of what kind of fan they are! Being able to appeal to various types of fans - from simple happy shipper people to deep dive lorediggers is the mark of the coolest games!

I love almost everything about Undertale as a game on its own. The music, the art and especially the characters and how they interact. They made me feel at home. Undertale means a huge amount to me. (I even got a tattoo of the castle when you and MK walk together!) The fandom helped keep the game alive all these years, with all of its AUs. Although personally, I always enjoyed AUs that kept characters as close to the classic material as possible (dancetale, outertale) I do appreciate the creativity of the fandom. They almost created entirely new stories with new characters of their own! If it weren't for those people, the Undertake fandom would have probably not been as active as it is now. I do feel like we're getting a resurgence of classic content now too! (In 2021)

the mystery. toby fox refused to give answers to anything and i think thats very sexy of him.

I just feel guilty for liking it so much when I'm in my 30's. But I recently got diagnosed with ASD, so I guess it explains things a bit. Many ppl consider Papyrus to be neurodivergent, and some adult fans are too, so seeing that makes me feel a bit better.

i think about "Despite everything, it's still you" everyday of my life.

I like how it's just as funny as it can be serious. All routes are this way. I laughed as much as I cried when I played the Pacifist route and then once I opened the game again and Flowey was telling me to let them be happy, I immediately turned off the game. I somehow felt bad.

The Found Family Trope

The True Pacifist Ending is just...man. And the fanworks about saving everyone even when the game doesn't let you? MANNNNNN

I think what I like the most about Undertale is how the music attaches you to the story. They're simple melodies that stick with you throughout the whole game, and they can remind you of both good and bad times.

there's honestly a LOT to love about this game, but i think one of my favorite things about it is just how many lgbt+ characters there are??? i can think of alphys, undyne, frisk, chara, mettaton, napstablook, monster kid, asgore, mad mew mew, the dress lion, the royal guards, and arguably even papyrus off of the top of my head, but im sure i'm forgetting a few from just undertale alone (there's even MORE in deltarune)!! it's practically unheard of to see so MANY from just one source, especially during its heyday in 2015-16. hell, you can't even GET the true pacifist ending without helping two gay couples hook up. it's really nice to see all of them being accepted for who they are and not judged for their sexuality or gender, at least in-canon.

[Image description: A wordcloud in the shape of the capitalized word UNDERTALE. The text is white on a black background, and uses the font found in the game. Some of the most visible words are: Game, Love, Music, Life, AU, Store, Friend, and Feel, which represent the most common words in the essays people wrote about their love for the game. End of ID]