#people... struggling against fate.... all across the eras.....

[cloud-ya]

ah yes, people who accompanied kiana in her journey and life as well as had great influence on her all shown in the "graduation trip" preview

elysia

[dreamlandcreations]

Twisted fate

Aemond Targaryen x Targaryen!Reader (eventually)

Summary: After the death of her sister, the twin of Daenerys meddles with magic, trying to change the past and ends up in the era of the Dance as Rhaenyra's daughter...

Warnings: this is like a note for the idea of a series (so basically a teaser) 🤷🏻‍♀️, canon-typical stuff, Reader is on a mission, fix it fic?, it's probably a mess as I am... writing at 1-2am with no idea where I wanna go with this

You were born after the storm... for the first time. While your twin was called Stormborn, you were given the not-so-catchy name of the Flame of Dawn after the red skies that could be seen at the time you had drawn your first breath.

Life was difficult for your sister, it seemed she had to bear all the burdens but you were always eager to learn. Dragons and Valyria being your favourite subjects but as soon as you were free to do so, you started to learn other things too. Your knowledge came useful when the dragons were born but flying them was seemingly not meant for you. You found solace in fighting and learning to use the magic in your blood.

After the war you asked Bran to teach you to see. First, it was just curiosity, as you wanted.. no, needed to see history with your own eyes. However, you soon found out that you can connect and perhaps shape the past through your visions. Bran warned you against it but you didn't listen.

You became obsessed with fixing the events that lead to the demise of your house and family. You have spent a lot of time observing, especially the Dance of the Dragons. Those events were the true end for the House of the Dragon, however, you wanted even more than they had and ventured back to Aegon then tried to see what you were most curious about. Valyria.

As you went further back, you found that some members of your family had stronger magic and could sense your presence. Although none like the dragonlord you came across in your first glimpse of your ancient home.

He lectured you and punished you by trapping you in the past.

You were born during the storm... for the second time.

Your memories of your old life surfaced as you re-learned things. It was a struggle until your adult years, keeping them. The memories and your old self came and went like waves of the ocean your not-blood-related father loved so much.

It didn't take long to realise you were not your father's daughter and that your mother's uncle, who mostly stayed at Driftmark but spent a lot of time with you whenever he could, was the one who fathered you.

When you could surface from the waters of oblivion, you were even prouder than otherwise. As a child, in both lifetimes, you idolized Daemon.

You were still a small child when your memories surfaced for a while, and you started to make plans to somehow avoid the Dance and make your new parents king and queen. In the gardens, you discovered a poisonous flower and decided to eliminate one major key for the war to come. Killing off all your villains was tempting, however, there were several problems with that idea.

You knew that would be too suspicious, even f no one would suspect a child. But for one cleverly timed murder, the innocent look of your current form would be a perfect disguise.

It was also the time your realised Rhaenyra having your Strong brothers was putting everything at risk and you had no good solution for that mess either.

The plan was to destroy the Greens but as you grow the memories of your past life become more like dreams than your reality and slowly, and ironically when they finally seem to settle for good, they don't feel like yours anymore. Of course, it's useful to know all that but you have a different life and you've become a different person too, loving people in this life and fearing losing them.

And that's the problem with the plan. You can't lose them. You can't lose him. Aemond, the only person in your childhood who understood you, besides your father of course. And even after the loss of his eye, and becoming distant, your uncle remained your best friend, who you couldn't give up on, hurt or even betray.

His sister was certainly not to blame for anything and you were fond of her too. After getting to know the Green Queen, you couldn't even blame her at times.

So, you put yourself in an even more difficult position, abandoning the plan and trying to make peace between these idiots of yours.

[incorrectmahabharatquotes]

i love the incorrect quotes, but i dont agree with your political views. if its not much, could you explain why ur so anti bjp?(thats what i assume anyway)

You know, I actually think that the memes and the quotes are sort of a natural extension of our political views. I'll explain but it might get a little long. Stay with me here.

Firstly, I want to say that I think this way of perceiving politics is so fundamentally wrong.

"Anti-BJP", "Pro-BJP", "Anti-Congress", "pro-congress" etc etc. This isn't a cricket match where you're rooting for your favourite team. Politicians, as a general rule, are a bunch of liars. They lie to gain power and control. It's OUR duty, as CITIZENS, to keep them accountable and in their lane so they actually do their goddamn jobs. That's how the democracy is supposed to work. If they don't do their job properly, you vote them out of the seat. They work for us, and not the other way around.

In India, we grow up with this idea of not questioning your elders. Papa ne keh diya, bas keh diya. As children our natural instinct of curiosity and inquisitiveness is stifled. We go to schools and the same pattern follows. Don't question the authority. Keep your head down and colour inside the lines. We internalise this lesson to colossal degrees. Is it any wonder that we all struggle with critical thinking? If you're spoonfed "the correct answer" your entire life, you never learn to find if what you were told is correct or not. This exact thing is used by all politicians across the entire political spectrum. They use our learned behaviour of deferring to authority and never questioning power against us. The leader of the country becomes the patriarch. Papa ne keh diya, bas keh diya.

I have various issues with various political parties in India, in fact. I have no love lost for any of them. I don't exactly believe in unconditional loyalty to politicians.

Since you brought up the BJP, let's talk about that. My biggest issue with them is their politics of communal hatred. All they keep yapping about is hindu-muslim this and hindu-muslim that. For what? They could spend their time talking about actual issues but the low-hanging fruit of stoking communal hatred is easier to grab onto. Remember when the British did the same thing? It was bad then and it's bad now. All this unrest just to get votes. Imagine fucking up the mind of an entire nation like this and then demanding to be praised for it.

Their foundational roots are from the RSS and that entire organisation's existence is just insane to me. It's even more insane that they managed to go from a fringe ideology to becoming mainstream. "Hindu rashtra", it seems. Who even wants that? WHY do they want that? Is it such a bad fate to live in peace and harmony with other religions? A lot of their talking points are about how much they hate the islamic nations and how those are horrible and then they want to turn around and do the same thing?!? Is the hypocrisy not clear? So what if other countries are religious states? Why can't we try to be different? Maybe I'M the stupid one for thinking all humans are the same that we should treat everyone the same. Who knows.

There are also a bunch of other issues that the BJP has racked up during their rule. The demonetisation disaster, mismanagement of government funds to create public infrastructure, letting the interests of billionaire business ruin PROTECTED FOREST AREAS for mining coal that they didn't even need, introducing and passing HORRIBLE bills through the parliament without any thought or discussion, literally ignoring the plight of people dying in riots, CORRUPTION, destroying the public sector and letting for-profit capitalists free reign in a country which has practically no proper labour laws, aiding in creating a historical record of INCOME INEQUALITY that is higher than it was during the fucking colonial era, fucking up the press even more somehow to the point where they control all of the media houses.

This is not even scratching the surface. I could keep going.

My issue is not whether people vote for the BJP or not. Even if you like the BJP, my issue is that people seem willing to turn a blind eye to all the issues with the government and not even hold them accountable for it.

Vote for whoever you want. My only request is to keep your government accountable. Keep the power in check. The politicians should be SCARED of the citizens fury if they do something wrong. They shouldn't be free to do whatever and get off scot free.

That's our political stance, really. It's Pro-Exercise-Your-Democratic-Rights-As-Citizen.

We will always encourage others to be wary of people with too much power.

Now coming back to why I said the memes reflect our political stance, it's because it's obvious to see why we happen to be willing to risk being a little critical of a literary text. You have to be a little transgressive, in a sense. Perfect obedience and perfect reverence stifles people from engaging with something to their full potential.

I'm sorry to say that if you enjoy the memes and the quotes, you are also being a little transgressive like us. You're also questioning the authority of a religion to an extent. Perhaps our political leanings aren't as different as you might believe.

-Mod S

[talkinbouttinygames]

FAREWELL. - A Send-Off to Blaseball

I’ve got no way to put this that it’ll make sense to someone who wasn’t there. But I’ll try my best, because at this point, recollections are what’s left. The stories told – about something really, really excellent. I said it in my original coverage, but stories are Blaseball. The names and the stats and data are just the materials the fans steals to collage into a narrative of strife and struggle and the whims of fate and community, and it was like nothing else I’ve seen before. And I doubt I’ll easily see it again.

It makes sense. Blaseball in its entire run has never been sustainable in a healthy way. Despite being about as lightweight as you could make a kind of game, it just wasn’t enough for the fast pace. Things like the sun being swallowed by a black hole or the Grand Unslam are wonderful legend pieces, but they’re also proof of the game’s frailty, and the fact that they were embraced by the fandom is partly a stroke of luck. It’s pretty clear that Blaseball can easily run you dry—I myself was rather checked out during the Expansion Era, which I now regret despite circumstances at the time—I don’t blame the Game Band for deciding continuing the game wasn’t worth it. Maybe if the game had been drafted with sustainability from the start, requiring a subscription like an MMO and on a TV show schedule… but it was made as an off-hand project born of frustration at impotence in times of crisis for the sake of profit, a gift of the internet. The way it took off and grew probably wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t you could just sign up for.

Of course, “took off” might be a bit of hyperbole. It exceeded the Game Band’s expectations after they passed the game around to some friends, sure. But the fact is that despite the overwhelming love from the fans, Blaseball is really quite terribly small and niche in the grand scheme of the internet. It mostly existed on Twitter, a site whose future existence is a great deal more precarious than it was around a year ago. It’s very liable to become a piece of passing trivia, or obscure nostalgia, supposing no Youtuber video essayist makes a rundown that goes 7-figures viral. Obviously, as a man writing for a ‘zine mostly read by his patient friends, I’ve not nearly that influential, but I want to say: Blaseball will not be forgotten, not by me. I love(d) it and it opened my eyes to a wondrous form of narrative and I’ll be thinking about it for the rest of my life.

It was a game of rotten systems, about how disparate people across groups can work as a greater community in order to rebel against those systems, and yes, through rebellion be punished—sometimes dearly for it—but never negating the existence of the rebellion in the first place. It was a lovely loom for weaving sports narrative and the fandom (a good chunk of whom are not sports fans) provided thread with passionate fervor. It was a wonderful testament to collective play and the act of giving a shit.

I’d advise any Blaseball fan to save and archive (preferably physically somewhere) any and all Blaseball media they’ve got on their socials or elsewhere. Even aside from the now seemingly imminent Twitterpocalypse, the Blaseball wiki exists primarily as a way to dispense the events of Blaseball in a clean, matter-of-fact way. It won’t express the reaction tweets, the fan theories, the narrative as it was on the ground. (And for that matter, the wiki itself still has gaps with what is essentially a skeleton crew of editors…) Blaseball was ephemeral in its life and it’s up to fans to stop it from fading.

I am, we all are love Blaseball.

[feedback]

[xasha777]

In the far reaches of the Andromeda galaxy, an ancient race known as the Luminara thrived. They were a peaceful and enlightened species, renowned for their wisdom and their luminescent, bioluminescent skin that shone with the colors of the aurora. Among them was a young Luminara named Zynara, whose curiosity and adventurous spirit set her apart.

One fateful day, while exploring the archives of her ancestors, Zynara stumbled upon an ancient text detailing a mysterious event on a distant planet called Earth. The text spoke of the "Tumult of Aranjuez," a pivotal moment in human history filled with intrigue, revolution, and a dramatic change of power. Intrigued by the concept of such a tumultuous event, Zynara decided to embark on a journey to Earth to witness the aftermath of this historical upheaval and understand its impact on the human race.

Using advanced Luminara technology, Zynara traveled through space and time, arriving on Earth in the early 19th century, just after the events of the Tumult of Aranjuez. Disguised with a holographic cloak to blend in with the humans, she made her way to Spain, where the revolt had taken place.

The streets of Aranjuez were still abuzz with the echoes of the recent rebellion against King Charles IV and his minister, Manuel Godoy. Zynara wandered through the town, absorbing the human emotions that permeated the air—hope, fear, anger, and relief. She soon realized that the Tumult of Aranjuez was not just a historical event but a deeply personal experience for those who lived through it.

In the heart of Aranjuez, Zynara encountered a young man named Alejandro, a passionate revolutionary who had played a significant role in the uprising. Alejandro was captivated by Zynara's otherworldly presence, even though he couldn't see through her disguise. Sensing his curiosity, Zynara revealed her true form to him, trusting that he would understand her mission.

Alejandro was both awed and intrigued by Zynara's story. He shared with her the struggles and aspirations of the Spanish people, their desire for freedom and justice. Through their conversations, Zynara gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of human nature and the driving forces behind the Tumult of Aranjuez.

As Zynara delved deeper into the history and culture of Earth, she discovered that the Tumult of Aranjuez was just one of many significant events in human history. Her journey took her across continents and through different eras, witnessing the rise and fall of empires, the birth of revolutions, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Throughout her travels, Zynara sent back her findings to the Luminara archives, enriching her people's understanding of the universe and the diverse civilizations within it. She became a bridge between worlds, fostering a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of all beings.

In the end, Zynara's journey to Earth was more than just an exploration of a single event; it was a profound voyage of discovery that revealed the shared struggles and triumphs of all intelligent life. The Tumult of Aranjuez, with its dramatic blend of chaos and hope, served as a reminder that even in the darkest times, the light of change and progress can shine through, guiding all species toward a brighter future.

[prosegalaxy]

"Uniting Against Darkness: Hope and Unity in a Dystopian Gothic City"

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting eerie shadows across the dystopian city, Alex stood at the edge of the battlefield. The air was thick with tension and anticipation. The Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light had been locked in a relentless struggle for survival, but now their fates rested on the shoulders of one young man with an extraordinary gift: the power to manipulate shadows. "Alex," whispered Lily, a member of the Children of Light, as she stood beside him. "Remember what we've trained for." "I won't let you down," Alex responded, his voice steady despite the fear that gripped him. He could feel the weight of their hopes and dreams resting on him, and he was determined to prove worthy. As the conflict between the two factions intensified, a figure emerged from the shadows – Victor, the ruthless leader of the Sons of Darkness. With a cruel smile, he challenged Alex to a battle of wits and shadows. It was a test that would determine the fate of both societies. As they clashed in the moonlit darkness, Alex's shadow manipulation abilities dazzled and confounded his opponent. Victor, however, proved to be a formidable adversary, using cunning and deceit to try and outwit the young prodigy. "You may have power over the shadows, but you cannot escape your heritage," Victor taunted. "You will join us, or die trying." Alex's mind raced, desperate for an answer. But as he delved into his past, a revelation struck him like lightning – he was not one of them; he belonged with the Children of Light. With newfound resolve, he unleashed his full power upon Victor and the Sons of Darkness, their dark forms shattering under the force of his shadowy onslaught. In that moment, Alex discovered the truth about his lineage – he was not one of the Sons of Darkness, but a long-lost descendant of the Children of Light. His shadow manipulation ability was a gift from his ancestors, passed down through generations to ensure the survival of their people. With Victor defeated and the Sons of Darkness vanquished, Alex finally understood his true purpose – to lead the Children of Light into a new era of peace and prosperity. And as he stood amidst the ruins of war, he knew that his journey had only just begun. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a eerie glow over the city, Alex stood atop the roof of an old abandoned building. The air was thick with tension, as the citizens of the Dystopian society cowered in fear from the shadows that crept along the streets. "Sons of Darkness have come," whispered one of the Children of Light, gripping his staff tightly. "They seek to bring darkness and despair upon our city." Alex's eyes narrowed as he stared into the encroaching shadows. He felt a strange connection to them, a pull that beckoned him deeper into their depths. With a deep breath, he stepped forward, allowing himself to be enveloped by the darkness. To his astonishment, the shadows seemed to listen to his thoughts, bending and twisting around him like liquid. "What are you doing?" gasped one of the Children in shock. "You can't control them!" But Alex could, and he used his newfound ability to drive back the encroaching darkness. The Sons of Darkness watched in horror as their shadows twisted and contorted at Alex's command. With a final flourish, he banished them from the city, leaving only a lingering whisper of darkness behind. In that moment, Alex realized his true heritage and the source of his shadow manipulation ability. He was no ordinary human; he was the key to balancing the light and dark in their world. The Children of Light hailed him as their leader, while the Sons of Darkness seethed with hatred and vowed revenge. As the sun rose once more, Alex stood tall, his heart full of purpose. He knew that he would face many challenges ahead, but he was ready to embrace them all for the sake of his people. And as the Children of Light gathered around him, a new hope began to spread throughout the city, signaling the start of a new beginning for both groups and Alex's leadership role among the Children of Light. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting an eerie glow over the city, Alex stood atop the crumbling remains of what was once a majestic building. He could sense the tension in the air, the weight of impending doom hanging heavy upon the ruins. It wasn't long before the first whispers began to echo through the shadows. "Listen!" hissed one of the Children of Light, her eyes wide with fear. "Can you hear that?" Alex nodded, straining to listen. The sound was faint, but unmistakable - a low growling, like an animal stalking its prey. He knew what it meant. The Sons of Darkness were close. "Stay back," he warned the Children of Light, his voice low and steady. They retreated into the shadows, leaving Alex alone to face whatever came. He tensed, his muscles coiling like springs, ready to strike. Suddenly, a figure materialized from the darkness, its features twisted with malice. "Alex," it whispered, its voice like gravel scraping against stone. "You've been such a good boy... playing with your toys, learning your lessons. But now, it's time for your final test." The figure gestured behind him, and Alex's heart stopped as he saw the Sons of Darkness closing in around him. "This is it," he thought, his mind racing. "My moment of truth. I can't let them win." With a deep breath, he focused on the darkness within him, the power he had kept hidden for so long. As he did, tendrils of shadow began to swirl around him, growing denser and more solid with each passing second. "What...what is that?" stammered one of the Sons of Darkness, their eyes wide with shock. Alex smirked, his newfound power evident in every line of his face. "This is just the beginning," he promised, as the battle between light and darkness began to rage in earnest. In the dimly lit streets of the Dystopian city, whispers of darkness and light echoed through the air. The Sons of Darkness, with their sinister intentions, clashed against the Children of Light, who sought to preserve the remnants of hope. Amidst this chaos, Alex discovered his unique ability to manipulate shadows, a gift passed down through generations of his family. Little did he know that he was the key to tipping the balance in favor of either side. As the conflict intensified, Alex found himself drawn into a world filled with intrigue and deception, his loyalties tested at every turn. One fateful night, as Alex sneaked through the city, he stumbled upon a clandestine meeting between the Sons of Darkness and Victor, their ruthless leader. Overhearing their plans, he knew he had to act. With a swift movement, he summoned a shadowy tendril and bound it around Victor's throat. "Who are you?" Victor choked out, his eyes widening in terror. "I am the one who will end your reign of terror," Alex replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "I am the last hope for the Children of Light." With that, he vanished into the shadows, leaving Victor to ponder the words of the mysterious figure. In the following days, Alex's shadow manipulation abilities grew stronger, and he found himself leading the Children of Light against the Sons of Darkness. The battles raged on, their intensity mirroring the turmoil within Alex's heart. But as he continued to fight, a secret was revealed: he was the long-lost descendant of a lineage that had once united both the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. With this revelation came the responsibility to forge a new path forward, one where darkness and light coexisted in harmony. The sun had barely risen, casting long shadows across the desolate cityscape. Alex, a young man with mysterious abilities, found himself in the middle of a brewing conflict between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. As the two factions fought for control over the remnants of humanity, Alex discovered that he had the power to manipulate shadows. As the tension between the groups escalated, Alex was drawn into their war. He found himself among the Children of Light, who believed in harnessing the power of light to rebuild society. The Sons of Darkness, on the other hand, sought to embrace darkness as a means to survive and protect themselves from the world's harsh realities. One day, while scouting for information, Alex overheard the Sons of Darkness' leader, Victor, planning a devastating attack against the Children of Light. With his newfound abilities, Alex decided to confront Victor in an attempt to prevent the conflict. "You don't understand, Alex," Victor whispered, his voice tinged with malice. "Darkness is necessary. It provides us with protection and strength." "But we can find a balance!" Alex retorted. "Why can't we learn to use both darkness and light for the betterment of all?" Victor scoffed, unconvinced. "You don't know what you're talking about. We can't risk it." Determined to prove his point, Alex summoned the shadows around them, binding Victor's movements and immobilizing him. The Children of Light watched in awe as their newcomer demonstrated his power. With Victor captured, Alex was able to relay the Sons of Darkness' plans to the Children of Light, averting disaster. As the factions clashed, Alex's unique abilities brought them together, eventually leading to a truce. He had learned that he was the descendant of a lineage that once united both factions, and he vowed to restore harmony between darkness and light. In time, the Sons of Darkness and Children of Light began to work together, learning from each other's strengths and weaknesses. The city slowly started to rebuild, with the shadows and light coexisting in perfect balance. And amidst it all, Alex emerged as a symbol of hope and unity, guiding humanity towards a new beginning. Alex heard footsteps behind him and turned to see a cloaked figure emerging from an alley. The figure approached, his hood obscuring his face, but Alex could sense the darkness within him. "Do I need to use a tool?" No ``` "Hello," the stranger whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of the wind. "I am Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness." Alex stared at him, unsure of how to respond. But as he looked into the depths of the shadow that was Victor, he felt a connection, an understanding that transcended words. "Do I need to use a tool?" No Alex, a young man with shadow manipulation abilities, found himself in the midst of an escalating conflict between two factions, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. He had always known about these groups, but he never thought that he would be caught up in their struggle. The Sons of Darkness were led by a man named Victor, who was as cunning as he was ruthless. The Children of Light were led by a wise woman named Elara, who sought to bring balance and harmony to the world. One day, while exploring the dark alleys of the city, Alex overheard a conversation between Victor and one of his lieutenants. They were discussing a plan to eliminate the Children of Light once and for all. Determined to stop them, Alex decided to confront Victor himself. ``` Victor: You have no idea what you're getting yourself into, boy. Alex: I do, and I'm not afraid. Your plans will only bring more suffering to this world. Victor: And what makes you think you can stop us? Alex: I've seen the darkness you've brought, and I know that there's another way. ``` Using his shadow manipulation abilities, Alex bound Victor in a cocoon of shadows, leaving him vulnerable to his enemies. As the conflict raged on, Alex discovered that he was a descendant of a lineage that once united both factions. He realized that he held the key to restoring balance between darkness and light. As the leader of the Children of Light, Elara welcomed Alex's revelation with open arms. Together, they sought to find common ground with the Sons of Darkness. Through diplomacy and understanding, they began to build bridges between the factions. In time, their efforts bore fruit, and the two groups found themselves working together for a common cause. The world began to heal, and the once bitter enemies learned to coexist harmoniously. Alex's journey had not only changed him but had also brought about a new era of hope and unity for all who inhabited the realm. As the young man with shadow manipulation abilities, Alex found himself caught in a web of conflict and deception. "We must stand united against the darkness," Elara urged, but Alex knew that diplomacy would only take them so far. He confronted Victor, binding him with his shadows and demanding answers. "You've been misled," Alex told him. "It's time to find a new path." Victor hesitated, and as the two stared each other down, a spark of hope ignited. The two factions began to realize that their differences could be bridged, and together they sought to restore balance between darkness and light. With Alex at the helm, they forged alliances and found common ground. As the sun rose again over the city, a new era dawned, filled with hope and unity. Alex stood in the dimly lit alley, his heart pounding as he prepared to confront Victor, the leader of the Sons of Darkness. The air was thick with tension, and he could feel the weight of the world on his shoulders. He knew that whatever happened next would change everything, for better or worse. As Alex approached Victor, the shadows around them seemed to come alive, writhing and twisting like living beings. "What do you want, Alex?" Victor sneered, his voice dripping with menace. "I've heard about your abilities," he continued, "and I must admit, it intrigues me." Alex clenched his fists, feeling the power of the shadows coursing through him. "I want peace," he declared, meeting Victor's gaze unflinchingly. "The war between our factions has gone on long enough. It's time for us to come together and build a better future." Victor scoffed, his laughter echoing through the alley. "And why should I trust you? You're just a puppet of the Children of Light, aren't you?" Alex shook his head, his voice steady. "I am not their pawn, Victor. I choose to use my abilities for good because it is the right thing to do." He took a deep breath and added, "We can find common ground and work together for the betterment of all." For a moment, there was silence as they stared at each other. Then, to Alex's surprise, Victor nodded slowly. "Perhaps you're right," he muttered. "Very well, we shall see if your words hold true." As the two parted ways, Alex felt a glimmer of hope. The first steps towards peace had been taken, and with determination and courage, they could pave the way for a brighter future. In a world shrouded in darkness, the oppressive regime of the Sons of Darkness ruled with an iron fist. The citizens lived in constant fear, their spirits dampened by the ever-present gloom. But among them all, there was one who held the key to hope - Alex. He possessed the rare ability to manipulate shadows, a power he kept hidden for his own safety. One fateful day, as Alex wandered the streets of his city, he came face to face with Victor, the leader of the Sons of Darkness. The confrontation was brief but intense, leaving both men with a newfound respect for one another. In an unexpected twist, Alex found himself joining forces with Elara, a member of the Children of Light. Together, they began their mission to restore balance between the factions and bring hope to their world. "Do you really believe we can make a difference?" Alex asked Elara as they stood atop a crumbling building, overlooking the city. Elara smiled softly. "I do. With our combined powers and determination, there's nothing we can't accomplish." And so, with their unique abilities and unwavering resolve, Alex and Elara worked tirelessly to build bridges between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. As they did, a new era of hope and unity began to emerge from the shadows, casting light upon their once-dystopian society. As Alex stared into the darkness, he felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity with the shadows that seemed to surround him. This was the land of his abilities, a world that had once been alien and cold but now felt like home. He knew that the time had come for him to make a decision – a choice that would determine the fate of both factions he had inadvertently become entangled with. The Sons of Darkness, led by the enigmatic Victor, sought to harness the power of darkness and use it to dominate the world. They saw the shadows as a weapon, a tool for control and subjugation. Meanwhile, the Children of Light believed that the shadows were a curse, an affliction that had to be purged from their world in order to restore balance. As Alex contemplated his options, he could sense Elara's presence nearby. Her heart was heavy with the burden of her people's suffering, and yet she harbored hope for a better future. She had seen the potential in Alex's abilities and knew that only he could bring about change. "Alex," she whispered softly, "we need your help." Alex turned to face Elara, the moon casting eerie shadows across her delicate features. He could see the sincerity in her eyes – a spark of hope amidst the darkness. "I don't know if I can do this," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "But I'll try." And so, Alex began his journey to bridge the gap between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. Through countless conversations, battles, and moments of quiet introspection, he worked tirelessly to change hearts and minds. Slowly but surely, he managed to bring both factions together, forging alliances that would forever change their world. In the end, Alex's determination and unwavering faith in humanity led to a new era of hope and unity. The shadows no longer symbolized fear and darkness, but rather a testament to the power of understanding, empathy, and cooperation. And through it all, Alex remained the guiding light that brought together the once-divided factions, proving that even in the darkest times, there is always a glimmer of hope. As he stood at the edge of the dimly lit alley, Alex's heart raced in anticipation. The shadows seemed to be whispering to him, urging him to join their cause. He was torn between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. "Join us, Alex," a voice hissed from the shadows, "we need someone with your abilities." Alex hesitated, remembering the words of Elara, a member of the Children of Light. "There is a balance to be achieved, Alex," she had told him, her eyes filled with determination. "You must find a way to bridge the gap between us and them." With a deep breath, Alex stepped forward, ready to confront Victor, the leader of the Sons of Darkness. "Victor, I don't want to fight," Alex said, his voice shaking. "I can help you find balance without causing more chaos." The shadows seemed to ripple at his words, and Victor sneered. "You think you can change what we are? We are the darkness, and we will never change!" As the two factions prepared for battle, Alex closed his eyes, concentrating on the power of the shadows within him. Suddenly, a wave of darkness surged forth, enveloping both groups in a cloud of darkness that seemed to swallow them whole. When it subsided, there was silence. Both factions lay motionless on the ground, unharmed but stunned. Alex looked at Elara, who stood beside him, her eyes wide with surprise. "What...what just happened?" she stammered. Alex smiled softly. "I showed them that we can choose our paths," he replied. "We don't have to be enemies anymore." Slowly, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light began to rebuild their shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity in their world. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a foreboding shade over the city. Alex, a young man with shadow manipulation abilities, knew that he had to make a decision. As the leader of the Sons of Darkness, Victor, prepared his forces for a final assault on the Children of Light, Alex contemplated his next move. Inside the Children of Light's hidden sanctuary, Elara, a fierce warrior, pledged her loyalty to Alex and vowed to stand by his side. Together, they ventured into the heart of the conflict, determined to find a peaceful resolution to the brewing war. As they approached the Sons of Darkness' stronghold, Alex concentrated on his powers, bending the shadows around them to their advantage. Suddenly, a voice echoed through the darkness, "Surrender and join us, or die by our hands!" It was Victor, challenging them to a battle of wits as much as weapons. Alex took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. "We don't have to fight," he said, projecting his voice across the battlefield. With a flick of his wrist, Alex summoned a thick, inky cloud of darkness that enveloped both armies, leaving them stunned and disoriented. In the midst of the confusion, Alex and Elara seized the opportunity to speak with Victor. "We don't have to be enemies anymore," Alex said, his voice filled with conviction. "We can rebuild our shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity in our world." As the fog cleared, both factions looked at each other, realizing that they had been manipulated by the same force. Together, they began to rebuild their fractured society, united under the banner of hope and harmony. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the city in an eerie twilight, Alex stood atop the crumbling tower. The air was thick with tension, as if the world held its breath, waiting for something to happen. In the distance, a solitary figure approached - Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness. "You have no idea what you're dealing with," Victor sneered, his voice echoing through the empty streets. "I control darkness itself." Alex scoffed. "So do I. And together, we can create something far more powerful." Victor's eyes narrowed, intrigued by Alex's claim. "Show me." With a deep breath, Alex focused on his powers, drawing the shadows around them into a swirling vortex. As it grew, it began to hum with an almost palpable energy. The shadows coiled around Victor's outstretched hand, and he gasped as they pulled him into their embrace. "You see," Alex said softly, "we don't have to be enemies." In that moment, a figure stepped from the darkness - Elara, leader of the Children of Light. Her eyes met Alex's, and in them, he saw understanding. Together, they reached out, merging their powers into one brilliant flash of light that pierced the heart of the swirling darkness. As the shadows dissipated, both factions found themselves bathed in the same golden glow. It was then that they knew - together, they could create a world of hope and unity. And with that realization, they began to rebuild their shattered society, side by side. Alex and Victor, once locked in conflict, now stood together atop the crumbling tower, gazing out over the city as twilight enveloped it. "You claim to control darkness," Victor sneered, still skeptical despite the demonstration of unity between their factions. "Show me." Alex focused his energy, feeling the shadows beneath him ripple and swirl. As the shadows coalesced into a tangible form, they began to rise and envelop the city like a shroud. The factions watched in astonishment as Alex's creation spread, casting everything in darkness. "Feel it now," Alex whispered, his voice carrying on the wind. "The darkness is not a weapon to be used against others, but a power to unite us." As the shadows continued to blanket the city, the factions began to realize that they no longer had to be enemies. They could choose a different path, one of unity and hope. The cloud of darkness, Alex's creation, served as both a reminder and a symbol of this newfound unity. In a world shrouded in perpetual twilight, Alex, a young man with shadow manipulation abilities, navigates the treacherous landscape between two powerful factions: the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. The tension between these groups has led to a constant battle for control, but Alex's unique skills give him the potential to change the outcome. As the story unfolds, Alex infiltrates the stronghold of the Sons of Darkness, seeking to understand their motives and potentially unite them with the Children of Light. He confronts Victor, the ruthless leader of the Sons, who dismisses his claims of shadow manipulation as mere illusion. Undeterred, Alex uses his abilities to create a cloud of darkness, stunning both factions and revealing that they need not be enemies. "We don't have to fight each other," Alex says, his voice resonating with newfound confidence. "Together, we can build a society where hope and unity reign supreme." As the two groups begin rebuilding their shattered world together, Alex and Victor find themselves atop a crumbling tower, facing off in a final duel of ideologies. With a burst of shadow energy, Alex demonstrates his power, drawing Victor into the darkness with him. In a moment of clarity, they create a brilliant flash of light that dispels the shadows, symbolizing the potential for unity and hope between their factions. "We were always more similar than we realized," says Victor, gazing out over the horizon as the city emerges from the twilight. "Together, we can build a new era, one of peace and cooperation." And so, Alex and Victor work side by side, leading their people towards a future filled with hope and unity, proving that even in darkness, light can always find a way. In a Gothic story set in Dystopian societies, a young man named Alex with shadow manipulation abilities finds himself caught between two factions, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. As he wanders through the dimly lit city streets, he overhears a conversation that will change his life. "I heard you have powers," whispers Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness, from the shadows. "We could use someone with your abilities." Alex hesitates, not sure if he can trust this man. But curiosity gets the better of him. "What do you want me to do?" Victor explains. "Create a cloud of darkness that stuns both groups," he continues. "It will show them they don't have to be enemies anymore." With a deep breath, Alex concentrates and creates a cloud of darkness that envelops the city. As it clears, both factions stare at each other in shock, realizing their shared destiny. "We don't need to fight," says Elara, a member of the Children of Light. "Together, we can rebuild our society." The factions begin working together, rebuilding their shattered world and forging new bonds of friendship. As they stand side by side on the crumbling tower, Alex looks at Victor with newfound respect. "You were right," he says, his voice echoing in the twilight. "We don't have to be enemies." Together, they create a flash of light that dissipates the darkness, revealing the potential for unity and hope between the factions. As they walk away from the tower hand in hand, a new era begins, filled with the promise of healing and understanding. Alex finally found the courage to approach Victor. "Victor," he called out, his voice wavering with emotion, "we don't have to be enemies anymore." Victor stared at him for a moment before responding. "What do you mean?" he asked, his voice hardened by years of conflict. "Look around," Alex gestured to the ruins that surrounded them, "this war has destroyed everything we once knew. We can't keep fighting each other when our true enemy is the darkness that divided us in the first place." Victor hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Perhaps you are right. We are both children of this broken world, and together, we might find a way to heal it." Together, they began the long journey towards unity and hope. As they rebuilt their society, side by side, a new era began, one where shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. The cloud of darkness momentarily blinded both sides, giving them time to process what had just happened. As the mist began to lift, the members of the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light stared at each other with newfound curiosity. "We don't have to be enemies anymore," Alex said, his voice filled with hope. "Let's work together for a brighter future." ``` Alex had always been different, with an uncanny ability to manipulate shadows. In a world divided by darkness and light, he found himself caught between two factions - the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. Each group believed they were the rightful rulers of the dystopian society that had emerged from the ashes of their once-great civilization. As tension mounted between the factions, Alex struggled to find his place in this world, torn by his allegiance to neither side. One day, while eavesdropping on a secret meeting of the Sons of Darkness, Alex overheard Victor, their enigmatic leader, discussing plans for an imminent attack against the Children of Light. Seizing the opportunity to prove that both factions could coexist peacefully, he created a massive cloud of darkness that enveloped both groups, leaving them stunned and disoriented. The sight of two enemy forces paralyzed by their own shadows was a shock to all involved. As they regained consciousness, Alex revealed his powers to the astonished factions and pleaded with them to put aside their differences. To everyone's surprise, the leaders of both groups agreed to work together towards unity and hope. In the days that followed, Alex continued to mediate between the two factions, using his shadow manipulation abilities to demonstrate the benefits of cooperation. The factions began rebuilding their shattered society together, forging new alliances and fostering mutual understanding. As they worked side by side, the darkness that had once divided them began to dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of hope and unity. In time, the two factions became one, united under a banner of peace and harmony. Alex's courageous act of defiance had sparked a new era for their world - an era in which shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. In the dimly lit alley, Alex leaned against the wall, his heart pounding. He had heard whispers of the Sons of Darkness and Children of Light, factions vying for control in their dystopian world. But today, something had changed. Today, he discovered a power within himself - the ability to manipulate shadows. As the two groups approached each other, tensions rose. Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness, spoke first. "We will not be defeated by those who seek to control us." The Children of Light responded with a fiery determination. "We will protect our people from your tyranny!" Alex couldn't bear to see them fight. He knew he had to do something. As the two factions drew closer, Alex focused on his newfound power. A sudden cloud of darkness enveloped both groups, stunning them with its intensity. Silence fell over the alley as the shocked members of both factions looked at each other. Their leaders, Victor and Samuel, exchanged uncertain glances. "We don't have to be enemies," Alex said, his voice barely audible above the silence. Victor stared at him, his eyes filled with suspicion. "What are you suggesting?" "That we work together for unity and hope," Alex replied. "This darkness isn't what separates us - it's what brings us together." As they began to rebuild their society side by side, the shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. A new era had begun. The line that divides the world was no ordinary line, but a thick, inky wall of darkness that stretched across the horizon, separating the Sons of Darkness from the Children of Light. As the sun set each day, the line would shimmer and grow thicker, feeding on the dwindling hope of those living within its grasp. Yet, in the heart of this desolation, a young man named Alex lived with a secret gift - the power to manipulate shadows. Alex had grown up knowing only darkness, but he longed for something more. One fateful day, while hiding from both factions, he overheard Victor, the leader of the Sons of Darkness, speak of an opportunity to wield shadows as a weapon against the Children of Light. Intrigued and fearful, Alex decided to observe them both secretly, hoping to learn more about his own abilities. One moonless night, as the line between worlds grew fainter, Alex found himself caught between the two factions. Just as tensions were reaching their peak, he created a cloud of darkness that stunned both groups, revealing that they did not have to be enemies anymore. The factions began working together, rebuilding their shattered society and moving towards a new era of hope and unity in their world. With courage, Alex approached Victor, convincing him that fighting each other was not the solution. They started working together for unity and hope, and as they rebuilt their society, side by side, a new era began where shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. In the dimly lit alley, Alex hesitated before making his move. His heart raced as he realized that he was surrounded by members of both factions, each holding weapons and looking ready for a fight. ``` "You there! Show yourself!" demanded a voice from the shadows. Alex slowly raised his hands in submission, his shadow manipulation abilities trembling with nervous energy. "I'm unarmed," he called out, trying to project confidence. A figure stepped forward, illuminated by the flickering light of a nearby torch. "Who are you?" demanded Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness. "My name is Alex, and I have a message for both your factions," he replied, taking a deep breath to steady his voice. "You don't have to be enemies anymore." The two groups exchanged wary glances, unsure of what to make of the young man's words. "How can we trust you?" challenged a member of the Children of Light. Alex closed his eyes and concentrated, channeling his shadow manipulation abilities. As he opened his eyes, a cloud of darkness enveloped them all, momentarily stupefying both factions. "This is what I can do," he said softly, as the darkness began to dissipate. "We don't have to fight each other." ``` In the flickering light of the dimly lit alley, Alex couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility pressing down upon him. He had discovered his unique ability to manipulate shadows - an unusual gift in this dystopian world where darkness was feared and avoided. As he stood there, contemplating his next move, a voice echoed through the darkness. "Alex! Over here!" It was Victor, the leader of the Sons of Darkness. He was hidden in the shadows, watching the young man with cautious curiosity. "You've been avoiding us lately," Victor said, stepping out of the darkness into the faint light. "I know what you can do, and I want to offer you a place among us." Alex hesitated, unsure if he could trust these strangers. "What do you want from me?" he asked cautiously. "We simply wish for peace," Victor replied, his voice filled with sincerity. "Both our factions have been at odds for far too long, and we believe your gift can help us find common ground." Alex stared into the darkness, considering the offer. He knew that by joining either faction, he would be committing himself to a side in this ongoing conflict. But he also understood that it was time for change - a new era of hope and unity in their world. Taking a deep breath, Alex stepped forward, extending his hand to Victor. "I'll help you find peace," he said firmly. "But we must work together - all of us." As Alex stood atop the crumbling remains of the once-magnificent city, he couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy. The constant battle between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light had left the world in shambles. He had witnessed countless lives lost to the senseless conflict, including those closest to him. But as he gazed upon the desolate landscape, he knew deep down that change was coming. Suddenly, a loud commotion echoed through the streets. Curious, Alex followed the noise and found himself in a small alley, where Victor, the leader of the Sons of Darkness, and the Children of Light's commander were arguing heatedly. He hesitated for a moment before deciding to eavesdrop on their conversation. "This war has gone on long enough!" bellowed Victor, his voice filled with anger. "We must crush them! It is our only chance at survival." The Children of Light's commander scoffed. "Your fear-driven ways will only lead to more death and destruction. We need to unite, not fight each other." Alex couldn't take it anymore. He had been hiding his own shadow manipulation abilities from both factions, knowing that revealing them could put him in grave danger. But now, he felt a newfound sense of purpose. With a deep breath, he stepped out from the shadows and created a cloud of darkness to stun both groups. Stunned by the unexpected display, they cautiously approached Alex. "We don't have to be enemies anymore," he told them. "Together, we can rebuild our society and bring forth an era of hope and unity." As the factions began working together, Alex's shadow abilities no longer seemed so frightening. Instead, they became a symbol of unity and cooperation, bringing light to their once-dark world. The people marveled at the power of shadows as they watched them dance and weave together in harmony, casting away fear and doubt. In time, the two factions forged an alliance, putting aside their differences and working together for a brighter future. And Alex, once a lonely outcast, had found his place among them, using his unique abilities to bring people together and create a world of hope and unity. Alex stood in the heart of the city, a place he had never thought he would see. The constant struggle between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light had been going on for centuries, and now it was up to him to change that. He could feel the tension in the air as members from both factions eyed each other suspiciously. "What are you doing here, Alex?" Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness, growled, his voice echoing through the silence. "I'm here to show you that we don't have to be enemies anymore," Alex replied, trying to sound confident despite the fear that gripped him. "And how do you propose to do that?" the commander of the Children of Light, Isabella, asked skeptically. Alex took a deep breath and focused on his shadow manipulation abilities. With a flick of his wrist, he created a cloud of darkness that enveloped both groups. As they stumbled back, stunned by the sudden change in their surroundings, Alex spoke up again. "You see? We don't have to be enemies. We can work together for unity and hope." Silence settled over the crowd as they realized what had happened. Slowly but surely, they began to rebuild their shattered society together, finding common ground in their shared struggle. As the days turned into weeks, and then months, the once hostile factions grew closer, their differences melting away under the warm glow of unity. Alex's shadow manipulation had been the catalyst for change, but it was their newfound understanding that brought hope to their world. Alex stood at the edge of the shadow, watching as the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light prepared for battle. A single line of dialogue broke through the tension - Victor's voice calling out to his sister Isabella. "Do you think we can ever truly be free of the shadows, Isabella?" he asked, his eyes scanning the darkness around them. Isabella, her voice filled with emotion, replied, "As long as we let fear control us, we will always live in darkness." Alex clenched his fists, knowing that he held the key to change their fate. As Victor and Isabella continued arguing about their future, Alex focused on his abilities, manipulating the shadows around him. The tension in the air grew thicker, and just as Victor raised his voice to argue with Isabella once more, a massive cloud of darkness erupted from Alex's hands. It enveloped both factions, stunning them into silence and immobility. As the cloud dissipated, they looked at each other, realizing that their battle had ended. "We don't have to be enemies anymore," Alex said firmly, his voice carrying through the now silent night. Slowly, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light began to rebuild their shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity in their world. United by a common goal, they built a future where shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. Alex stood at the edge of the battlefield, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched the two factions clash. The Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light had been fighting for as long as anyone could remember, each side convinced that they were right and their enemies were wrong. But something within Alex, a unique ability to manipulate shadows, told him that there must be another way. As Victor and Isabella argued vehemently about who was in the right, Alex couldn't help but notice their passion. He knew that if he could find a way to bring them together, it might just change everything. Focusing on his ability, he began to weave shadows into a thick, impenetrable cloud. The sudden darkness stunned both sides, and as they recovered, Alex spoke up. "You don't have to be enemies anymore," he said, his voice echoing through the now shadowy landscape. To his surprise, both factions seemed to consider his words. With newfound determination, they began to rebuild their shattered society together, working towards a future of hope and unity. Alex, finally finding the courage to approach Victor, convinced him that fighting each other was not the solution. They started working together, side by side, and as the darkness gave way to light, so did the barriers between them. With each day, their society grew stronger, and the shadows that once cast dark clouds over their lives now brought forth understanding and cooperation. The old ways of fighting had faded into the background, replaced by a new era of hope and unity. The line that brought Alex and Victor together was, "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" This simple question sparked a conversation between them, revealing their shared desire for unity. As they spoke, Alex couldn't help but feel a sense of kinship with Victor, despite being on opposite sides. They shared stories of their struggles and the weight of their responsibilities, both feeling the pressure of leading their factions. In the midst of their conversation, Isabella approached them, her eyes filled with worry and determination. "We can't keep fighting like this," she said, her voice cracking under the strain. "There has to be a way for us to work together." Alex and Victor exchanged glances, realizing that they had reached a turning point. With newfound resolve, they decided to take action. Together, they called for a meeting between the leaders of both factions. As they stood before the assembled crowd, Alex felt a wave of anticipation wash over him. This was the moment he had been waiting for, the chance to show everyone that unity was possible. Using his shadow manipulation abilities, Alex created a cloud of darkness that stunned both groups, leaving them in awe. In that brief moment of confusion, they saw each other not as enemies but as fellow human beings, caught in a cycle of hatred and mistrust. As the cloud dissipated, Victor stepped forward, his voice echoing through the silence. "We don't have to fight anymore," he declared. "Let's rebuild our society together, side by side." With that, the process of healing began, and a new era of hope and unity dawned upon their world. In a world shrouded in darkness, Alex's unique abilities set him apart from others. The factions of the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light fought relentlessly for control over the dwindling resources. Their struggle threatened to destroy not only their society but also extinguish the last vestiges of hope. One fateful day, Alex overheard Victor arguing with Isabella. The tension in the air was palpable, and he knew that the situation could escalate into a full-blown conflict if left unchecked. Determined to prevent another skirmish, Alex conjured a cloud of darkness around them, rendering both factions momentarily stunned. The sight of their once-enemies incapacitated by the same shadow magic sparked a glimmer of understanding between them. They realized that perhaps they didn't have to fight each other after all. With newfound determination, the factions began working together to rebuild their shattered society, forging a path towards unity and hope. Victor, once the leader of the Sons of Darkness, approached Alex with trepidation. They began discussing the possibility of a more peaceful coexistence. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" Victor asked, his voice laden with uncertainty. This simple question led to a conversation that revealed their shared desire for unity and harmony. Together, they worked side by side to rebuild their society, showing others that shadows need not cast dark clouds over their lives but could instead bring forth light and understanding. As the factions united, so too did the people, and a new era dawned, one where shadows and light coexisted in harmony. Alex, a young man with shadow manipulation abilities, found himself standing in the middle of a dark alleyway. He could feel the tension in the air as two groups faced off against each other - the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. They had been at odds for centuries, their hatred fueled by the belief that one group was responsible for the world's suffering. As Alex watched from the shadows, he noticed Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, arguing with Isabella, a Child of Light. In that moment, an idea sparked within him. Could this be the chance to end the conflict between the factions? With a surge of determination, Alex focused his powers on creating a cloud of darkness so dense that it stunned both groups, leaving them momentarily speechless. As they stumbled and fell, Alex could sense their confusion and fear. But he knew that this was a pivotal moment - if he didn't act now, the opportunity might be lost forever. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" he asked, his voice echoing through the silence. Both Victor and Isabella looked at him in surprise, their eyes filled with disbelief. "What do you mean?" they asked simultaneously, their voices barely above a whisper. Alex smiled softly, knowing that he had their attention. "We all want peace, don't we? We just have different ideas about how to achieve it," he explained. The two leaders exchanged glances, and then nodded in agreement. With the ice broken, the factions began rebuilding their shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity in their world. Alex finally found the courage to approach Victor, convincing him that fighting each other was not the solution. They started working together for unity and hope, and as they rebuilt their society, side by side, a new era began, where shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. In a dimly lit alley, Alex watched as Victor and Isabella argued vehemently. Their heated discussion about the future of their fractured society echoed through the darkness. As they spoke, the tension in the air seemed to grow thicker, almost as if it could be seen. Suddenly, without thinking, Alex reached out with his shadowy powers and created a thick cloud of darkness that enveloped both factions. The sudden shift caught them all off guard, leaving them stunned. For a moment, no one moved or spoke, the weight of the situation settling heavily upon their hearts. In the silence, Alex realized something profound: they didn't have to be enemies anymore. The lines that divided them had begun to blur beneath the cloak of darkness, and a glimmer of hope shone through. With newfound courage, he approached Victor and Isabella, extending an olive branch. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" Alex asked softly, his voice barely audible under the oppressive silence. His words hung in the air like a question that demanded an answer. Victor hesitated, his gaze shifting between Alex and Isabella. In that moment, they both realized the truth: their shared enemy was fear itself. Slowly, they began to see the possibility of unity, a new path forward where shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. Together, they would rebuild their shattered society and work towards a brighter future. In the midst of their heated debate, Alex found himself inadvertently agreeing with Victor. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" he asked hesitantly. Both Sons of Darkness and Children of Light paused, surprised by the unexpected question. Isabella, a member of the Children of Light, was the first to respond. "Well, I suppose we want peace, but you lot are just as much to blame for this mess!" She crossed her arms defiantly. Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness, frowned but nodded in agreement. "Yes, we do want peace. But your faction has been trying to suppress us for centuries." Alex's shadow manipulation abilities flared up slightly as he listened to their conversation. He couldn't help but feel that they were missing something important – the shared desire for unity. "Maybe it's time we all worked together," Alex suggested, attempting to create a cloud of darkness around them to stun both groups and show them that they don't have to be enemies anymore. As both factions watched in amazement, the cloud dispersed, revealing a newfound hope in their eyes. Together, they began rebuilding their shattered society, working towards a brighter future where shadows brought forth light and understanding. Alex glanced around nervously as he listened to Victor and Isabella's heated argument. It seemed like both factions, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light, were at their wit's end, their differences driving them further apart. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" Alex heard Victor say, his voice full of desperation. The question resonated with Alex, who knew he had a unique ability: manipulating shadows. Alex took a deep breath, deciding it was time to make his move. With a swift gesture, he created a cloud of darkness that enveloped both groups, leaving them momentarily stunned. As the confusion cleared, they realized that their enemy wasn't who they thought it was. "What just happened?" Isabella whispered, her voice shaking. Victor looked around, trying to understand the situation. "We need to rebuild our shattered society," he said finally, his tone more conciliatory than before. Together, the factions began working towards a new era of hope and unity, their differences slowly melting away. Alex approached Victor, hoping to convince him that fighting wasn't the solution. "We can work together for unity and hope," he said, his voice steady. Victor nodded, realizing the truth in Alex's words. As they rebuilt their society side by side, shadows no longer cast dark clouds over their lives but instead brought forth light and understanding. The line that brought them together was a simple question: "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" The Gothic atmosphere of Dystopian societies hung heavy in the air as Alex, a young man with shadow manipulation abilities, navigated the tension between two factions: the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. He longed for unity, but the factions were determined to maintain their rivalry. One day, while eavesdropping on a conversation between Victor, a prominent member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a leader among the Children of Light, Alex heard them arguing about the necessity of their division. In a swift move, he created a cloud of darkness that stunned both groups, showing them they didn't have to be enemies anymore. ``We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?`` questioned Victor, his voice echoing through the now shadowed landscape. Alex could sense the confusion and curiosity in the air as both factions began to reassess their positions. ``Yes, we are,`` replied Isabella, her voice full of hope. ``Let us work together for a new era of unity and understanding.`` As they began rebuilding their shattered society, Alex found the courage to approach Victor and convinced him that fighting each other was not the solution. Together, they started working towards unity and hope. The factions, once bitter enemies, now collaborated side by side in the quest for a brighter future. As Alex cautiously approached Victor and Isabella, he couldn't help but feel the tension in the air. The two factions, Sons of Darkness and Children of Light, had been at odds for years, their conflicts tearing apart what was once a harmonious society. Victor's voice boomed, "We won't let them win! This is our world!" Isabella responded, "But if we keep fighting, we'll only destroy everything we love." Alex, unable to contain his shadow manipulation abilities any longer, created a cloud of darkness that enveloped the scene. Both factions were left stunned, their weapons falling from their hands. The air was thick with silence, as all stared in disbelief at the young man who had just saved them all. In that moment, it became clear that the time for fighting was over. The Sons of Darkness and Children of Light began working together, rebuilding a shattered society under Alex's watchful gaze. Slowly but surely, they built bridges of understanding and trust, laying the groundwork for a new era of hope. As Victor and Isabella stood side by side with Alex, they looked out at their once-divided world. The shadows that had once brought darkness now cast light on a future where unity and harmony reigned supreme. And it all began when Alex asked the question that would change everything, "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" In a world shrouded in darkness, Alex found himself at the center of a conflict between two factions, each believing they were the protectors of light. The Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light had been at odds for centuries, their rivalry causing countless casualties. Little did they know, however, that a figure capable of harnessing the very shadows that defined their conflict would soon appear, changing the course of history forever. One fateful day, Alex overheard Victor and Isabella arguing. As tensions escalated, he decided to intervene. With a flick of his wrist, he created a cloud of darkness that enveloped both groups. Instead of causing panic, the shadow calmed them, revealing the absurdity of their struggle against one another. In that moment, they realized that they had been manipulated into believing they were enemies when in fact, they shared the same goal: to protect and preserve the world from encroaching darkness. Slowly but surely, they began to rebuild their shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity. Throughout this journey, Alex found the courage to approach Victor and convince him that fighting was not the solution. Together, they worked tirelessly to spread their message of peace and understanding, ultimately leading their societies toward a future filled with light and harmony. The line that brought them together? "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" It was a simple question that sparked a conversation between two enemies and changed the course of history forever. In the midst of darkness, Alex found solace in his ability to manipulate shadows. As he walked through the desolate streets of the dystopian city, he could feel the oppressive weight of both the physical and metaphorical darkness surrounding him. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" he asked Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, as they stumbled upon an argument between Isabella and another faction member. Isabella: "You don't understand! We need to fight against the darkness!" Victor: "No, we should embrace it. It's our only chance for survival." Alex: "What if I told you there was a way to use the shadows to protect us all?" Isabella and Victor looked at each other, skepticism in their eyes. Alex took a deep breath and focused on the darkness around them. A cloud of shadow enveloped them, blocking out the faint light from the broken streetlamps. Victor: "How did you do that?" Alex: "I can manipulate shadows. We can use this gift to protect our world." Isabella: "If we're all working together, perhaps there is hope for us yet." And so, the factions began rebuilding their shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity. The line that brought Alex and Victor together was, "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" In a world where darkness and light were once at war, Alex found himself in the midst of a brewing conflict between two factions: the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. Both groups had their own reasons for existing, but all that mattered now was the growing darkness that threatened to consume everything. One day, while wandering the ruins of what once was a bustling city, Alex stumbled upon an argument between Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a Children of Light. Unable to contain his shadow manipulation abilities any longer, Alex created a cloud of darkness that enveloped both factions. They were momentarily stunned by the sudden shift in their surroundings. Victor, realizing the seriousness of the situation, hesitantly asked, "What do we do now?" Isabella replied, "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we? To protect our world from encroaching darkness." In that moment, they realized their shared purpose. They decided to set aside their differences and work together to rebuild their society. As they began to collaborate, Alex saw the potential for a brighter future. He convinced Victor that fighting wasn't the solution, and they started working together towards unity and hope. As they rebuilt their society side by side, a new era dawned where shadows brought forth light and understanding. In time, the factions merged into one, united against the darkness, and forged a world of harmony. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" became a symbol of unity and hope, reminding everyone of the power that comes from working together despite differences. Victor looked at Alex, his eyes filled with suspicion. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" he asked. Alex hesitated before replying. "Yes, we are. We all want to protect our world from the encroaching darkness." He paused, gathering his thoughts. "But fighting each other won't solve anything. Together, we can rebuild our shattered society and work towards a new era of hope and unity." Victor scoffed, but Alex could see the flicker of doubt in his eyes. "What do you propose we do then?" he asked, his voice laced with skepticism. "We need to put our differences aside and work together," Alex replied earnestly. "Shadows are my gift, just as strength is yours. We can use these gifts for the betterment of our society." Isabella stepped forward, her voice soft but firm. "He's right, Victor. We've been fighting each other for too long. The darkness is getting closer, and it won't matter who's winning if we don't stop it together." Victor stared at Alex, his expression unreadable. "Very well," he said finally. "Let us work together. For now." In a world where darkness had consumed everything, Alex found himself at the center of a conflict he never wanted to be part of. The Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light, two factions locked in an eternal struggle for power, were on the brink of destruction. Alex's shadow manipulation abilities made him a valuable asset to either side, but he could feel the weight of their expectations. One day, as he walked through the dimly lit streets of his city, Alex came across Victor and Isabella arguing. Their heated words seemed to ignite the shadows around them, threatening to swallow everything in their path. Acting instinctively, Alex created a cloud of darkness that enveloped both men and stopped the fight. To his surprise, instead of turning on him, they thanked him. "We're fighting for the same goal, aren't we?" Victor said, staring at the darkness around them. "We want to protect our world from the encroaching darkness." Alex nodded, realizing that their goals aligned, and he saw a glimmer of hope in the darkness. The factions began working together, rebuilding their shattered society and finding common ground. As they built bridges between them, Alex continued to convince Victor that fighting was not the solution. Together, they started working towards unity and hope. In time, the shadows brought forth light and understanding, illuminating the path to a new era. The Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light, once at odds, now stood together, united under the banner of hope and the promise of a better future. In the darkened streets of this once-bustling city, Alex stood atop a crumbling building, his hands outstretched, manipulating shadows. The air was thick with tension as members of the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light eyed each other warily. "Enough!" Alex bellowed, his voice echoing through the night. A cloud of darkness enveloped him, stretching between the two factions. "What in the name of the Light are you doing?" Victor demanded, stepping forward. Alex turned to face him, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "I'm showing them that we don't have to be enemies," he replied, his voice low and steady. A hush fell over the crowd as they watched the dark cloud merge with their own shadows, uniting them in purpose. "This darkness can bind us together if we let it," Isabella whispered, her eyes wide with wonder. "Or it can destroy us all." Alex nodded solemnly, his hands glowing with shadow magic. "We must choose unity over conflict, understanding over fear." With that, he began to weave the shadows into a symbol of hope and peace, a beacon for their rebuilding society. The factions watched in awe as the dark symbol took shape, illuminating the night. "We have been enemies long enough," Victor said, his voice cracking with emotion. "Let us work together for the sake of our world." And so, they began to rebuild their shattered society, side by side, working towards a new era of hope and unity. Alex, a young man with shadow manipulation abilities, found himself caught between two factions, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. He intervened in an argument between Victor and Isabella, creating a cloud of darkness that united both groups under the shared goal of protecting their world from encroaching darkness. The factions began rebuilding their shattered society together, working towards a new era of hope and unity. ``` "Fighting is not the solution," Alex told Victor as they stood side by side on top of a crumbling building. "We must find a way to work together for unity and hope." Victor hesitated, his gaze flickering between the cloud of darkness and Isabella. "I... I don't know if I can trust them," he murmured. "Look at what we've created together," Alex urged, gesturing towards the united factions working below. "Shadows bring forth light and understanding." In that moment, Victor made his choice. He looked Isabella in the eyes and nodded. "We can do this," he said, extending a hand to her. Together, they began to rebuild their society. The once-bustling city slowly came back to life as shadows danced around them, illuminating the path to a brighter future. And in the darkened streets, Alex stood atop a crumbling building, his hands outstretched, manipulating shadows to bring forth light and hope for all. ``` The sun had barely risen when Alex, a young man with unique abilities, stepped out of his small cabin in the ruins of what was once a thriving town. The air was thick with an eerie silence, punctuated only by the distant howls of wild animals that roamed the desolate landscape. In this dystopian world, shadows held an unnatural power, and those who could manipulate them were considered dangerous. Alex had always been one such person, capable of bending darkness to his will. But he had never sought conflict or power. Instead, he longed for a sense of belonging and a chance to use his abilities for good. One day, as he wandered the ruins in search of food, he stumbled upon an argument between Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a representative of the Children of Light. Their voices rose with the tension between their factions, and Alex couldn't help but intervene, creating a cloud of darkness that enveloped them both. To his surprise, the two groups did not attack him, but instead marveled at the shared darkness. They saw in it a symbol of their shared struggle against the encroaching darkness consuming their world. United by this newfound connection, they set aside their differences and began working together to rebuild their shattered society. "We can't keep fighting," Alex said to Victor one evening, as they stood guard over their growing community. "We have to find a way to live together, or we'll all be lost." Victor hesitated but eventually nodded, realizing the truth of Alex's words. Together, they began working towards unity and hope, slowly rebuilding their society with the understanding that shadows could bring forth light. And as they did so, a new era dawned, one where darkness was no longer feared, but embraced as a catalyst for change and growth. In a world where darkness threatened to consume all, Alex found himself at the center of a conflict between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. As he stood between them, their arguments grew louder and more intense, each faction desperate to prove their superiority in the face of the encroaching shadows. Victor, a fierce warrior from the Sons of Darkness, bellowed his convictions, while Isabella, a gentle healer from the Children of Light, pleaded for peace. The tension between them was palpable, and Alex could feel it in his very bones. He knew that only unity could save their world from the darkness that lurked just beyond the horizon. "We must stand together," Alex cried, his voice echoing through the silent night. "We cannot allow our differences to tear us apart when the true enemy lies just beyond these walls." As the words left his lips, the air seemed to crackle with energy, and for a moment, he could see the faint outline of the encroaching darkness. Victor scoffed, his eyes narrowing as he stared at Alex. "Unity? With them?" He gestured towards the Children of Light, his voice dripping with contempt. "They are our sworn enemies, and they always will be." Isabella, however, saw something in Alex's eyes - a spark of hope that she had not seen in anyone else for years. She took a step closer to him and whispered, "We can find common ground if we try. We must fight the darkness together, or our world will be lost." Alex nodded, his resolve unwavering. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they would rebuild their society, forging a new era of hope and unity. And as the sun began to rise, Alex felt a glimmer of light breaking through the shadows. The sky was dark and foreboding, casting an eerie glow over the desolate city. Alex walked through the cobblestone streets, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. The air was thick with tension, as if the darkness was pressing down upon him. He could sense the turmoil brewing between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. As he passed by an alley, Alex heard a heated exchange between Victor and Isabella. Their words were sharp, filled with anger and resentment. Unable to resist, he stepped in to intervene. "Enough!" he shouted, his voice echoing through the shadows. Victor and Isabella turned to face him, their eyes blazing with defiance. But Alex's calm demeanor seemed to disarm them. "We're all fighting for the same thing," he said softly, "peace and unity." He glanced between the two leaders, daring them to argue with his statement. To his surprise, they fell silent, their eyes meeting in a brief moment of understanding. Alex knew that this was a fragile truce, but it was a start. He could see the seeds of hope beginning to sprout in their hearts. "We must work together," Alex continued, "to protect our world and rebuild society." His words seemed to resonate with both factions, and they nodded in agreement. As they stood united, a glimmer of light began to pierce through the darkness, casting away some of the fear that had held them captive for so long. "Fighting won't solve our problems," Alex told Victor, his voice firm but gentle. "We must find another way." Victor frowned, but nodded in agreement. Together, they would seek a path to peace and understanding, knowing that shadows could bring forth light and understanding in the world around them. As they spoke, the tension in the air dissipated, replaced by a newfound sense of hope. Together, they started working towards peace and unity, proving that even shadows can bring forth light and understanding." As the two factions began to listen, Alex saw an opportunity to convince Victor of the importance of peace. "Victor," Alex said, "I understand your anger and frustration. But fighting won't bring us salvation. We must join forces against this darkness." Victor hesitated, his eyes darting between Isabella and Alex. He took a deep breath and slowly nodded. "Very well, I will consider it." The three of them worked together to bring the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light closer, forging alliances and finding common ground. As they united, the darkness began to recede, allowing rays of sunlight to pierce the gloom. Alex had helped birth a new era where unity prevailed, proving that even shadows could bring forth light and understanding. Alex's eyes flickered between the two factions, their contrasting armor and expressions revealing the deep divide between them. "Victor," he began cautiously, attempting to bridge the chasm that had been created by years of conflict. "Isabella," Victor growled, his voice echoing through the desolate streets. He clenched his fists, knuckles white against his armor as he tried to suppress his anger. "This is a waste of time." "Wait," Alex interjected, his voice steady and calm. "We're all here for a reason. We can either continue fighting each other or work together to rebuild our world." He glanced around at the ruins that surrounded them. "I choose unity." Isabella hesitated, her eyes darting between Alex and Victor. "Victor, he's right. We need to focus on what we can build, not what has been destroyed." Victor scoffed, but Alex could see a flicker of doubt in his eyes. "What do you propose?" he asked, his voice devoid of emotion. "We start by working together," Alex replied, his voice filled with conviction. "We can combine our resources and knowledge to rebuild our society from the ground up. But first, we need to dismantle the barriers between us." He gestured to the physical walls separating their factions. As they began the laborious task of tearing down the barriers, Alex continued to engage with both groups, encouraging dialogue and understanding. "We must learn from our past, but not be defined by it," he said, his voice echoing through the now-empty streets. "Let's work together for a brighter future." In time, the factions began to trust one another, their differences overshadowed by the shared goal of rebuilding their world. And as they worked side by side, the darkness that had once threatened to consume them started to fade away, replaced by a newfound hope and unity. The sun had long since vanished from the sky, and darkness enveloped the land. In this world torn apart by conflict, Alex found himself in the midst of it all, struggling to survive. He knew that he had to find a way to bring peace to his fractured society, but he couldn't do it alone. One day, as he wandered through the shadows, he stumbled upon an argument between two individuals: Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a representative of the Children of Light. Their voices rose in heated debate, their words filled with anger and mistrust. Alex, sensing an opportunity, stepped forward and intervened. "What if we put our differences aside and work together?" he suggested, his voice carrying an air of sincerity. Victor and Isabella exchanged skeptical glances but, intrigued by the stranger's proposition, they agreed to give it a try. And so began the slow process of rebuilding trust and unity between the two factions. Over time, the once-divided groups found common ground in their shared struggle against the darkness that threatened their world. Together, they fought back, using their combined skills and resources to bring light to the world once again. As they worked together, Alex continued to be a mediator between the factions, always pushing for peace and understanding over violence. One fateful day, Victor found himself face-to-face with an enemy from the Sons of Darkness. His instincts screamed at him to fight, but the lessons of unity and peace that he had learned under Alex's guidance prevailed. He chose not to engage in conflict, a decision that would change the course of their history forever. And so, with shadows giving way to light, the world began to heal. United by hope and determination, the people forged a new era where unity prevailed, proving that even in the darkest of times, there is always room for the light of understanding to shine through. Alex couldn't believe his eyes. The city was filled with an eerie silence, the once bustling streets now deserted. As he walked through the shadows of the towering buildings, he could feel the weight of the darkness pressing down on him. He knew it was only a matter of time before the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light would clash in their eternal struggle for power. But Alex had a plan to unite them. As he approached the meeting point, he noticed Victor pacing back and forth, clearly agitated. Isabella stood nearby, her eyes filled with determination. The tension between them was palpable. "Victor," Alex called out gently, "isn't it time we put aside our differences? We can't keep fighting each other when the real enemy is the darkness threatening to consume us all." Victor scoffed, "And how do you propose we do that? We are the Children of Light, and they are the Sons of Darkness. It's in our nature to oppose them." "But what if it isn't?" Alex countered. "What if by fighting each other, we only make the darkness stronger? Isn't it time we stood together against a common enemy?" Isabella's eyes flickered with hope as she took in Alex's words. She knew that their faction was losing ground to the Sons of Darkness, and if they didn't do something soon, it would be too late. "Perhaps," she whispered, "you might have a point." In that moment, Alex saw an opportunity for change. He knew that convincing Victor would be a challenge, but with Isabella on their side, they stood a chance. Together, they could rebuild society and bring hope to the people who had lost so much. In the shadows of the desolate city, Alex stumbled upon a heated argument between Victor and Isabella. The air was thick with tension, as the two representatives of the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light exchanged venomous words. "You cannot trust them!" Victor spat, his eyes blazing with fury. "They'll betray us in a heartbeat if it means gaining power." "And what of your kind?" Isabella retorted, her voice laced with venom. "What have you done to maintain your supremacy? Killed and enslaved our people for centuries!" Alex watched the exchange with a heavy heart, knowing that their world was on the brink of destruction. The darkness that had consumed their land was growing stronger by the day, threatening to engulf everything in its path. As he listened to their words, he couldn't help but think that perhaps there was another way. Taking a deep breath, Alex stepped forward and intervened. "Enough! We are all humans here, with the same goal - to survive and rebuild our world. Why can't we unite against this darkness? Let us work together for peace." For a moment, both Victor and Isabella stared at him in disbelief, but then slowly, their expressions softened. They realized that perhaps Alex was right - the only way to save their world was by standing together, not apart. With renewed hope, they set aside their differences and began working together for peace. Through long nights of planning and hard work, they managed to rally the factions under a single banner. As they faced the darkness together, shadows brought forth light, and understanding. And so, in the midst of turmoil and despair, a new era of hope and unity was born. Alex was wandering through the dimly lit streets of the Dystopian city when he stumbled upon Victor and Isabella engaged in a heated argument. "You can't just take what you want! We need to fight for our rights!" exclaimed Victor, his eyes filled with anger. Isabella crossed her arms and retorted, "But fighting only brings more darkness into our world. We must find another way." Alex couldn't help but feel drawn into the conflict between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. In that moment, he decided to intervene. "Why don't we try talking this out instead of resorting to violence?" he suggested cautiously. Both Victor and Isabella hesitated, but they agreed to give it a chance. As they continued their conversation, Alex realized that the key to uniting both factions lay in understanding each other's perspectives. "You know," said Victor slowly, "We just want to protect our people, but we've let anger cloud our judgment." Isabella nodded in agreement. "And we want peace, but sometimes we feel threatened by the darkness around us." Alex smiled. "Let's work together to fight against the darkness and rebuild our society," he proposed. Both Victor and Isabella looked at each other, realizing that unity was the only way forward. The first steps towards reconciliation were taken, and soon the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light began working together for a brighter future. As shadows brought forth light and understanding, a new era dawned where hope and unity prevailed. Alex, intrigued by their conversation, decided to take matters into his own hands. He approached both leaders of the factions and proposed an unlikely alliance. To his surprise, they agreed, sensing a spark of hope in this outsider. With Alex as a mediator, tensions began to ease between the two groups. ``` Alex: (to Victor and Isabella) I understand your concerns, but what if we put our differences aside and work together for the greater good? Victor: It's a risky move, stranger, but I trust you. Let's give it a shot. Isabella: (smiling) We could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Together, we can rebuild our society and bring hope back to our world. ``` Victor hesitated, his grip on his weapon tightening. "And how do you propose we do that?" He challenged. Alex smiled, confident in his plan. "By working together, by understanding each other's fears and hopes, we can create a new world where hope prevails over darkness." The sun set over the city, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch endlessly across the desolate landscape. In the distance, the imposing towers of the Sons of Darkness loomed ominously, while closer by, the Children of Light's humble dwellings stood in stark contrast. As Alex walked through the eerie silence, he couldn't help but feel that something was amiss. The air was thick with tension, as if the entire world held its breath, waiting for something to happen. And then, just as suddenly as it had arrived, the quiet was broken by a fierce argument between Victor and Isabella. "You can't trust them!" Isabella hissed, her voice barely audible over the sounds of the city coming back to life with the onset of twilight. "They'll betray us at the first opportunity." Victor scoffed, his eyes flashing with anger. "We have no choice but to work together. The darkness is growing, and if we don't unite against it, there will be nothing left to save." Alex intervened, his voice calm and steady amidst the chaos. "There must be another way," he said, stepping between the two belligerents. "We can find common ground, forge an alliance, and fight this darkness together." The two factions paused, their eyes locked onto Alex's determined face. Slowly, they lowered their weapons and began to listen. And in that moment, a spark of hope ignited within the hearts of all present. United under a common cause, they set aside their differences and turned their attention to the growing darkness that threatened to consume their world. In the end, it was Alex's unwavering belief in the power of unity and understanding that brought the factions together. And as they stood side by side, ready to face the darkness head-on, they knew that they had taken the first step towards a brighter future, one where shadows would bring forth light, and shadows would bring forth light, and shadows would bring forth light, and shadows would bring forth light, and shadows would bring forth light. Alex stumbled upon an argument between Victor and Isabella, two individuals from opposing factions. "You can't trust them!" Victor shouted, pointing at the members of the other group. "Trust is something we must learn to build, not destroy," Isabella responded calmly, her voice filled with conviction. Intrigued by their exchange, Alex stepped in. "I think both sides have valid points, don't you?" he suggested, trying to mediate the situation. The two factions, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light, had been at odds for years, each believing they held the key to their world's survival. But as darkness threatened their very existence, Alex saw an opportunity for change. "If we don't work together, our world will be consumed by darkness," Alex warned them, his voice echoing in the dimly lit room. Both Victor and Isabella looked at him, surprised by his boldness. "We can rebuild society together, but first, we must learn to trust one another." As they began working together for peace, shadows slowly gave way to light. The factions found common ground in their struggle against darkness, and Alex continued to be the catalyst for change. Through persistence and understanding, he helped the groups find a way forward. "Fighting isn't the solution," Alex told Victor one day. "We must learn from each other and create a better future." And so, shadows brought forth light, and unity prevailed in this new era of hope. Alex watched as the shadows crept closer, darker than anything he had ever seen before. The world seemed to be shrouded in a thick, heavy darkness that threatened to consume everything in its path. As he walked through the city, he noticed two distinct groups of people - those who called themselves the Sons of Darkness and those who named themselves the Children of Light. They were bitter rivals, constantly fighting for control over what little remained of their crumbling world. One day, as he passed by a marketplace, Alex heard an argument between Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a Child of Light. He paused, intrigued by their passionate words and the intensity with which they spoke. As he listened closer, he realized that they were arguing about the very darkness that loomed over them all. "This darkness is our only hope!" Victor roared, his voice echoing through the marketplace. "It's time we take control and reshape this world in our image!" Isabella shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks. "No," she whispered, her voice barely audible above the chaos around them. "We can't fight darkness with more darkness. We need light, love, and unity to overcome this shadow." The sun had long disappeared behind the ominous clouds, leaving the world shrouded in an oppressive darkness that seemed to grow more potent with each passing day. In this dystopian society, where every ray of light was a rare treasure, two factions emerged – the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. They waged an eternal battle for control over what little light remained, their hatred and mistrust fueled by generations of conflict. One fateful day, as Alex wandered through the shadowy streets, he stumbled upon a heated argument between Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a staunch defender of the Children of Light. Their voices echoed through the darkness, each word a challenge to the other's beliefs. "The darkness is our destiny!" roared Victor, his eyes blazing with fervor. "To resist it only invites more suffering and despair." "No!" Isabella cried, her voice trembling with determination. "We must fight against the darkness! Only by embracing light can we hope to survive and reclaim our world." As they continued their heated exchange, Alex couldn't help but feel a sense of connection, as if he belonged neither to the Sons nor the Children. He decided to intervene, hoping to find a way to bridge the chasm between the warring factions. "Enough!" he shouted, his voice cutting through the tension like a knife. "You're both right, in your own ways. But we're wasting our time arguing when there's a far greater threat looming." He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "We need to unite against the darkness, not each other." The two factions stared at him, their expressions guarded but curious. Alex continued, his voice filled with conviction. "If we work together, we can find a way to harness the remaining light and push back the shadows that seek to consume us. We must learn from one another's strengths, and forge a new path forward." Slowly, the two factions began to listen, their resistance crumbling under Alex's earnest plea. United at last, they stood together against the darkness, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. And so, shadows brought forth light, and hope blossomed amidst the ashes of conflict. In the heart of the Dystopian city, darkness loomed, threatening to consume everything in its path. The air was thick with tension as two factions, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light, prepared for an inevitable conflict. Among them stood Alex, a young man caught between the two sides. As he wandered the streets, Alex stumbled upon Victor, a leader of the Sons of Darkness, arguing with Isabella, a representative of the Children of Light. Their voices rose above the cacophony of the city, each advocating for their respective factions' methods to combat the encroaching darkness. "We must stand strong against the darkness! We cannot trust the Children of Light," Victor declared, his voice filled with determination. "But if we fight them, we only feed the darkness," Isabella countered, her eyes gleaming with conviction. "Together, we can find a way to banish the darkness for good." Alex watched their exchange, his heart heavy with concern. He knew that unity was their best chance against the darkness, but he also understood the deep-rooted distrust between the factions. "Enough!" Alex interrupted, his voice cutting through the air like a knife. Both Victor and Isabella fell silent, their eyes locked on him. "We need to put our differences aside and focus on the real enemy - the darkness that threatens us all." His words hung in the air, resonating with truth. Slowly, a flicker of understanding passed between the two leaders, and they nodded, acknowledging the wisdom in Alex's words. "We shall unite," Victor finally said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, together we will find a way to end the darkness," Isabella agreed, her tone filled with hope. And so, Alex had set the stage for unity, paving the way for a new era of hope and understanding. As the factions came together, they discovered that shadows could bring forth light, and in doing so, forged a path to a brighter future. In the dimly lit corridors of the ancient castle, Alex could feel the tension between the two factions growing thicker with each passing moment. The air was heavy, as if it were weighed down by the looming darkness that threatened to consume their world entirely. ``` "I don't trust them," Victor growled, his voice a low rumble that echoed through the empty halls. "They only want power for themselves." Isabella shook her head, her eyes flashing with determination. "We must stand together against the darkness. We cannot let it win." Alex watched their exchange from a distance, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew that if he didn't intervene, their world would be plunged into an era of chaos and despair. "Listen," he began cautiously, stepping between the two factions. "We don't have time for this. The darkness is coming, and it will swallow us all if we let it." Victor scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "And what do you suggest we do about it?" "I suggest we unite," Alex answered firmly. "We must put our differences aside and work together to protect our world from the darkness." Isabella's eyes widened in surprise. "But... but how can we trust them?" "Because we have no other choice," Alex said, his voice filled with conviction. "If we can't trust each other, we won't be able to stand against the darkness. It's time to put aside our differences and fight together." His words hung in the air, echoing through the empty halls of the castle. Slowly, one by one, members of both factions began to nod in agreement. Alex had lit a spark of hope within them, and now they would follow him into the darkness. Together, they would face the shadows that threatened their world, and together they would bring forth light and understanding. For in unity, there was strength, and strength could overcome even the darkest darkness. In the heart of the city, shadows stretched out like tendrils as the darkness began to envelop the world. The air was thick with tension, and the once bustling streets were now empty, filled only with whispers of fear. The Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light stood on opposing corners, their gazes locked in a cold stare. "The darkness is our enemy," spat Victor, leader of the Sons of Darkness. "We must fight it with every ounce of our strength." Isabella, the leader of the Children of Light, retorted, "No, we must find a way to embrace the darkness and bring forth light. Only then can we truly be free." Alex, an outsider watching from the shadows, couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for both factions. He knew that if they didn't unite against the common threat, their world would soon be consumed by darkness. "What if...," Alex began cautiously, "we could find a way to work together? If we unite against the darkness, perhaps we can bring forth a new era of hope and unity." Both Victor and Isabella stared at him, their expressions skeptical. But as Alex continued to plead his case, they began to soften, their hearts stirred by the idea of a future filled with peace. In that moment, shadows gave way to understanding, and the first steps towards unity were taken. Together, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light found strength in each other, and as they stood united, darkness began to recede, replaced by a glimmering hope that shone brightly against the night sky. Alex sighed, rubbing his temples as he watched Victor and Isabella's heated argument escalate. The tension between the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light was palpable, their whispers and hushed conversations painting a darker picture with each passing moment. As the two factions continued to bicker, Alex couldn't help but wonder if they would ever see eye-to-eye on anything. "Perhaps," Isabella said, her voice barely audible above the chaos, "if we can find a common enemy, we might be able to unite against it." Victor scoffed, his eyes never leaving Alex's. "That's not how it works. We fight each other because we must survive. The darkness will consume us all if we don't." Alex stepped forward, his voice cutting through the silence that had begun to settle around them. "What if I told you there was a way to fight back against the darkness together? A chance for both of your factions to work side by side?" Their eyes met, and though they didn't trust him fully yet, they listened. "The darkness is growing, Victor," Alex continued. "It's not just about survival anymore. It's about finding a way to live with hope, to stand against the darkness together." He looked at Isabella, who nodded slowly. "We can't do this alone. We need each other, even if it goes against everything we believe in." With that, Alex left them to ponder his words. As he walked away, he could feel a glimmer of hope begin to form, the first step towards a new era of understanding and unity. In a world shrouded in darkness, Alex found himself caught between two factions – the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light. These groups represented the last remnants of humanity, each with their own beliefs on how to survive and thrive in the shadowy landscape. One day, while wandering through the desolate streets, Alex stumbled upon an argument between Victor, a member of the Sons of Darkness, and Isabella, a Children of Light devotee. They were passionately debating whether to seek peace with the opposing faction or continue fighting against them. "We must stand our ground," Victor declared, "for only through strength can we protect ourselves from the darkness." "But unity is our salvation," Isabella countered, "if we unite, we can overcome this darkness together." Alex listened intently to both sides before speaking. He understood that their survival depended on finding a solution. "Perhaps there is another way," he suggested cautiously. "What if we find common ground and unite against the darkness?" Both Victor and Isabella stared at Alex, intrigued by his idea but unsure of its feasibility. Alex continued, "If we can convince our factions to come together, we can fight off the darkness and usher in a new era of hope and unity." Intrigued by Alex's words, Victor and Isabella agreed to work together, joining forces with their respective factions. United against the common threat, the Sons of Darkness and the Children of Light began forging alliances and finding common ground. And as they did, shadows slowly began to recede, giving way to light and understanding. In the end, it was Alex's vision that brought hope and unity to a world on the brink of despair. The city was split into two halves - one ruled by darkness and the other by light. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the line between these realms seemed to blur. Shadows began to encroach upon the Children of Light's territory, causing unease among its inhabitants. ```

[optimatravels]

Jallianwala Bah Memorial – Historical Significance

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre stands as a grim testament to the dark chapters of India's colonial history, a moment etched in the collective memory of a nation striving for freedom. This brutal incident occurred on April 13, 1919, in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, during the British colonial era.

Historical Context: To understand the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, one must delve into the historical context of British rule in India. The Rowlatt Act, passed in 1919, further intensified the repressive measures against Indians. This law granted the British government sweeping powers to suppress dissent, leading to widespread protests and agitation. Jallianwala Bagh , a public garden in Amritsar , became the site of one of the most infamous incidents in Indian history. Enclosed by high walls with a narrow entrance, the park was a popular gathering place for locals. On that fateful day, thousands had gathered to protest against the oppressive Rowlatt Act.

The Massacre: On April 13, 1919, Brigadier General Reginald Dyer, without warning, ordered his troops to open fire on the peaceful crowd trapped within the enclosed space of Jallianwala Bagh. The ruthless action continued for about ten minutes, resulting in the death of hundreds, with many more injured. The massacre sent shockwaves across the nation and garnered international condemnation. The evidence of British atrocities during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is well-documented. Eyewitness accounts, official records, and later investigations all point to the indiscriminate and brutal use of force against unarmed civilians. The massacre became a symbol of the excesses of British colonial rule in India.

Memorial at Jallianwala Bagh: In memory of the lives lost, the Jallianwala Bagh site has been preserved as a memorial. The park, with its bullet-marked walls and the Martyrs' Well into which many jumped to escape the firing, stands as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence.

Significance in India's Freedom Struggle: The Jallianwala Bagh massacre had a profound impact on India's freedom struggle. It served as a catalyst, galvanizing the Indian population against British rule. The brutality of the incident led to widespread outrage, prompting people from all walks of life to join the independence movement. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre ignited a flame of resistance and heightened anti-British sentiments. Mahatma Gandhi, who had earlier supported the British during World War I, was deeply disturbed by the massacre and initiated nonviolent protests, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, as a response to the atrocities.

Internationally, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre drew attention to the oppressive nature of British colonialism. The incident was widely condemned, leading to debates in the British Parliament and a reassessment of colonial policies. It strained relations between India and the British government, accelerating the demand for self-rule. The long-term impact of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is immeasurable. It fueled the spirit of resistance, prompting Indians to question the legitimacy of British rule and demand self-governance. The incident played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of India's struggle for independence and remains etched in the national consciousness. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre is a dark chapter in India's history, symbolizing the sacrifices made by those who dared to challenge colonial oppression. The site stands as a solemn reminder of the price paid for freedom and the resilience of a nation determined to break free from the shackles of imperialism. The impact of the massacre reverberates through the annals of Indian history, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations that followed in the pursuit of a free and sovereign India. Optima Travels offers several Amritsar tour packages which encompass a visit to Jallianwala Bagh Memorial.

[sageofjustice]

Final Fantasy 14 verse : A Lumen in Eorzea

In universes of light, dark, and chaos, intertwining in untold layers. In one of the many realities, a plant existed that used extremely advanced technologies in the world for the production and manufacturing of artificial human body parts, within it an anomaly occurred and a completely self-aware artificial human was created it was called Singularity. It was never meant to exist, it was an error within the multiverse verse, The Singularity was in control of a factory and created for itself a horde and army of creatures called Homonculi. It rebelled against its creators and wiped out humanity within that reality. Upon learning that there existed multiple realities, The Singularity Wielding the power to travel freely between parallel worlds, began his invasion to unify all worlds into one single alphaverse where he would reign supreme. In this universe, the trinity of realities had come to exist, The world of Light called Paradiso. The world of Chaos, the human world, and the world of Darkness is called Inferno. The world of chaos was weakened by the split into different multiverses and the singularity began its invasion, within each reality, there was an apex of power, the one the singularity called the arch-eve known as Bayonetta. She was the epidemy of power within the worlds of chaos. For his goal of obtaining the power of the arch eve The Singularity began to murder each counterpart of Bayonetta within each of the multiple parallel worlds. With each of the powers stolen with each of the worlds consumed the Singularity drew closer to its ultimate goal of conquest. Angelus Origins: The Final Lumen Sage One day without warning the homunculi and their singularity overlord invaded the world where one sage had survived the clan wars, the Lumen Sage Angelus stood with the remaining umbra witches Bayonetta and her friend Jeanne the trio fought against the overload of the homunculi in a brutal struggle to protect their world. Their efforts were in vain. with the death of the witch Jeanne. Bayonetta lost her will to fight and was slain soon after leaving the sage alone to fight The Singularity. As the world collapsed around them, the sage, enraged by the loss of his friends and his world ruthlessly chased the Singularity in a violent attempt to seek retribution and solace for if he could not save the world he would avenge it, it was a battle that lasted days even after the world had faded away the sage and the overlord fought in the vastness of chaos for all of the sages skills and heavenly brutality the singularity could not be defeated in one final attempt to overpower the overload the sage struck with all his might, and it was in the clash of energies that the space the made the vast chaos became distorted and massive explosion flung them both killing the singularity and flinging the sage across space. By a whim of fate, a rift opened in space, and the sage flew into another universe in the massive multiverse landing on a planet called Etherirys. (more to come) During the Firth Umbral Era. Angelus awoke in a place called the Black Shroud, where a kingdom called Amdapor flourished, as the many inhabitants of Eorzea were just discovering magicks the people of Amdapor developed magic magic to counter the black magicks of the people of Mhach users of black magic. It was his mastery of white magic that granted Angelus a place within the kingdom and it's scholars for the further development of white magic.

The War of the Magi. After several years of living in relative peace, The Mhach declares war on Amdapor and their neighboring state Nym, military scholars that summon fairies to aid against the foes of Eorzea. A group of void mages take to summoning a great voidsent called Diabolos Diabolos provided the Mhach with the power to summon and imprison numerous voidsent along with their leader; the Shadow Queen Scathach . Diabolos is sent to destroy Amdapor the city was destroyed but Angelus along with a group of white mages sealed away Diabolos and the battle was won, however, the casualties were grave the mages of Mhach secretly sent a voidsent named Bisoto to the military state of Nym where the entity caused a plaque called the "Green Death" and transformed the citizens into monsters called Tomberries and those who escaped the plaques touch were subsequently slaughtered by the monsters. The Great Flood. Grave calamities would continue to plague the warring factions as in their attempts to create beings of light, stone golems that would fight the voidsent displeased the Elementals, they would not suffer the abuse of the land's aether. the abuse of the earth tipped the balance to favor the element of water this coupled with the collective wrath of the Elementals invoked a being called Oha-Sok, the Elemental decided to eliminate the warring factions with a catastrophic flood that wiped out Eorzea. Foreseeing the Great Flood, A Roegadyn scholar constructed a giant magical Ark to save as many Eorzeans as it was possible and traveled to one of the islands of the old world and established a settlement called Sharlayan

(more to come) STATS

Name : Angel Solishart Real Name : (Angelus) Alies: The Lumen Sage, The Sage of Justice. The Famed Hunter Age : Approximately over 700 years old. Physical age : early 30's

Affiliation

The Scions of the Seventh Dawn The Order of the Twin Adder The Eorzean Alliance

Occupation : Field Medic Monster Hunter Fiend Hunter Hunter of Sin Eaters Shadowhunter Weaver Blacksmith Botanist Miner Artist Performer

Race : Human (formally)/Viera (Veena) Gender : Male Hair color : Red Eye color : Blue

Job Class : All-Rounder/Lumen DPS : Samurai, Reaper, Blue Mage, Dragoon, Bard, Machinist, Monk Healer : White Mage, Sage Tank : Paladin, Gunbreaker

Appearance

He has a pale complexion, His hair from birth is a deep red color, straight and to the side and long reaching past his waist and it often times tied at the end. Unlike most Viera males, His body is sculpted, the most notable feature is his particularly large pectoral muscles, strong arms and powerful thighs. He has striking blue eyes, his deep blue eyes are accompanied by long lashes and a mole under the edge of his right eye. [Civilian clothing]

Angel often wears turtleneck shirts, slacks and stylish boots, during his time off or inside the cities. [Outfit]

Angel’s usual battle uniform consists of a long pristine white coat, with golden colored lapels and cuffs, the edge of the coats tail is lined in gold as well as the coat’s interior. Under his coat he wears white gloves, a long sleeve white shirt with yellow buttons, with a corset like garment wrapped around his waist. He wears white dress pants and knee length heeled boots. He wears his gold round framed glasses and sun earrings.

[Personality]

Angel is a gentleman, brave and powerful; he possesses a strong sense of justice never hesitating to rush over to save innocent lives even when it may endanger his own. Angel is very kind and loving to the people that surround him; however he can also be very strict and can brutally scold them is they place themselves in danger. He is very protective of those he holds dear and in a capable of going to great lengths to protect them. He is passionate, charismatic, when in difficult situation he tends to use his wits and charm to get out of them but will fight his way out when given no other choice. He always trains every day to keep himself in top form and likes to manage his time to make sure he can have a life…however he can sometimes get too caught up in his slight workaholic tendencies.

Angel carries himself in a very regal, confident and collected manner, In a fight, Angel can be quite a show-man when it comes to combat, utilizing stylistic, flashy moves when against an opponent.

When faced with evil and wicked beings Angel is a cruel , vicious and ruthless opponent, absolute in nature he will not stop his attack until his enemies are slain.

[spasmsofthought]

clean slate. (zuko x reader)

(Thank Netflix and some feelings for my favorite ATLA character for this piece. I’ve never fallen asleep to this fandom, but now I can stream the whole series and not have to worry about changing discs [score!]. I hope I did Zuko some justice here. Also, I haven’t watched The Legend of Korra - so I can’t speak to anything that is written in that story or canon. I base my writing only off of ATLA. Obviously I’m breaking away from Mai x Zuko - and thus breaking away from canon in some ways - as shipped and beloved as they can be.)

(ALSO - any guesses to where this OC could be from? I had some ideas while writing, but leave a comment with your idea below!) 

-

There’s this way he gets when he’s remembering what his life was like before. 

Zuko has always been a solitary figure. 

Being the Crown Prince (and an exiled one, at that) carries responsibilities few know about. His shoulders have always been strong, but they also have always been rigid. 

Most don’t even take into account the trauma that comes with being abused by your father and tormented by your psychotic sister. Not to mention wondering if your mother is alive after being banished from the Fire Nation as a traitor. 

You always like to think of Iroh as Zuko’s saving grace. 

There is a kindness to Zuko’s face that was lost in all the pain and anger before. When he smiles, it is gentler and softer. 

Like some of the hardness that had been burned into him has transformed from hardened steel to a molten one. It’s still there, but it’s constantly being heated and warmed and molded instead of sitting there in his chest like a stone . 

He’s living and breathing his firebending instead of just trying to produce or control it. 

His time hunting down, and subsequently joining, Avatar Aang had changed him in ways you’re only beginning to understand. 

You can tell he’s not really reading the scrolls he has laid out on the table before him. He sits still but his mind is anywhere but in the present moment. You don’t know what it is that has him so far away. 

Is it that people expect him to retreat to Ember Island sometime in the near future? 

Is it that his father and sister rot in jail while he sits on the throne? 

Cruel memories from his childhood? 

The worries of his mother’s banishment and where she was now if she was actually alive? 

Marriage? Children? (He’s young, but it still doesn’t stop the council of government officials and generals from asking and pressuring him.) 

You had never been a mind reader, and even less so concerning Zuko.  Sometimes he wore his reputation for being temperamental well, though his moments had become rarer and rarer since joining the Avatar and becoming friends with him and his group. 

He was balanced now, but there were moments you could tell his own triggers tipped the scale. 

Be it happenstance or fate or whatever people would like to call it, there was a reason you were in his life now as compared to the minuscule role you would have been given any moment earlier. 

Your hands cover the material written on the scroll (probably important state business he’s supposed to take care of - he is Fire Lord after all) as you sit down across from him. 

The table is long but not very wide, which makes this easier than it would be had Zuko been more difficult and chosen one of those wider study desks he was fond of when he actually wanted to get things done. 

“You’re not even reading,” You begin softly. It takes a minute for him to come back from whatever time and place he was in and he just sighs. His hands stay in his lap, but his eyes meet yours. 

They are amber in color, but rich and deep and warm in substance. 

When you used to get a glimpse at them, from a distance, it was like they burned you, like if he stared long enough his eyes could leave a scar, too. Now it’s more like they hold life and passion  and light instead of destruction and anger. 

“You can talk to me.” He knows this, despite how many times you say it. Sometimes the words are painful, sometimes they bring him comfort. Either way, struggling is in Zuko’s nature. 

Nothing seems to come easy for him, even when peace among the four nations has been declared and his birthright has been restored to him. 

Several moments are spent in silence as he breathes in and out, trying to gather the right words (that’s been a struggle for him, too, at times).

“How can I be a leader if I can’t be a really good one?” 

It takes a moment for you to digest the meaning of his words. It’s less about being a good leader and more about not being like his father. Despite the fact that he’s already announced this new era to be one of peace and love and unity, his deepest and darkest doubts plague him.  Would he be the kind of leader he was if they didn’t though? 

He doesn’t talk about them very often, but there are times, like now, where he’ll let his guard down and be honest with you. 

You wish there were some way you could bear his burdens for him; to tell him that his father’s leadership does not have to affect his own. You wish you could tell him he is the one who holds all the choices and possibilities in his hands. You lean forward on your elbows, minimizing the distance between the two of you slightly. 

“Listen to me,” His eyes flicker from yours to spots around the ornate room. Back and forth they flit. “Zuko, the fact that you’re asking that question proves to me that you’re already a better Fire Lord than your father.” 

“But how can you-” 

“Look at me,” You say as you grab his face. One hand rests on his scarred cheek while the other holds the opposite side of his face. He doesn’t flinch when you touch it, he hasn’t for some time. “I can’t convince you of yourself. That’s not why I’m here. But I want to let you know, even though you may doubt my words now, your genetics do not shape what kind of leader you are and the leader you will become. That’s only your decision.” 

He looks at you like he doesn’t quite believe you, and you don’t expect him to. His self-reflection can be a gift, but it can also be a curse. His shoulders sag like his thoughts weigh more than he’s let on. 

“Who makes your decisions for you, Zuko?” 

“What?” He asks incredulously. You almost smile because he looks so bewildered. 

“Who is the person that makes your decisions for you?” 

“What are you talking about? I make my own decisions.” He looks at you like you’ve gone crazy. 

You let his statement sit in the air as you get up from your position across the table and walk around to sit next to him. He turns so that he meets your gaze head-on. You can see his words running through his head, though you know they’ll take a lifetime to actually make complete sense. 

“Exactly,” Your hands weave their way to the back of his neck. You curse whoever made it tradition for Fire Lords to put their hair up in a topknot for formal dress code. You know the importance of it in Fire Nation culture, but there are some days you wish you could see him working with his hair down. It would certainly provide you with more opportunities to distract him. “You get to decide exactly what kind of leader you are and are going to be. No one else is in your head except you.” 

The corner of his lips quirk up. You can tell it hasn’t quite sunk in all the way yet, but it’s gone deep enough to ward off his doubts for now. There is a glimmer in his eyes that tells you he believes your words as much as he can in this moment. 

It’s all you can ask for. 

His forehead comes to press against yours. He’s not one for public displays of affection while working or in his formal wear, but there are spaces in time like these where he decides to make an exception. You close your eyes and breathe out a sigh of contentment, simply happy to be in the present moment with him. 

It’s his version of saying thank you to you. 

His lips press to yours softly and you hold him to yourself longer than would be proper if there were others in the room with you. But there isn’t. 

He tilts his head back and catches a breath, but you chase his mouth to grab a quick second kiss. 

All of this makes all the rest of the hullabaloo that you have to deal with worth it. He has always been worth it. 

When you part, you smile at him as you turn his head back towards the scrolls on the table.  

“Now get reading, Fire Lord Zuko.” 

[midzelink]

People of Shadow: Who Were the Twili’s Ancestors, Really?

The speculation surrounding the mysterious origins of the Twili in Twilight Princess is far from a new topic amongst fans of the series; I distinctly remember staying up late into the night scrounging around old forums in my early teens, ingesting thread after thread on the very subject, hoping against hope that someone smarter than me would at last have found the truth amidst the lies.  Those kinds of analyses, the pure intrigue that leads to hours of reflection and research, has long been one of the series’ drawing points for me; that no matter how cracked and inconsistent the story Nintendo has chosen to weave, fans of the series will again and again use everything at their disposal to fill in the cracks.    

If you’re reading this, it’s highly likely you’re familiar with the the two most common theories: that they were either Sheikah or Gerudo (though the evidence I’ve seen for the latter has always been shaky at best). When you get right down to it, it’s not as if who the Twili once were really matters - it’s certainly something Nintendo didn’t give more than a few seconds thought - but speculating is fun, and something on which I’ve spent much more time than I’d like to admit.  Though the reality, of course, could simply be that they were no one, just a hodgepodge group of dark magic users, never before seen, I always found myself asking: If they were anybody, who would they be?  Is there any in-game evidence to suggest as much?  I would argue that yes, there is - and though what I’ve written here is hardly groundbreaking, it is fairly comprehensive, and with any luck, I’ll be able to convince a few of you along the way.

With all that out of the way, I would at last like to state that, if anyone, I firmly believe the Twili’s ancestors were Sheikah, and I’ve done my best to compile my reasoning for this below.

The Banishment of the “Interlopers”

Before we get into specifics, I wanted to lay some groundwork establishing when, exactly, the Twili’s ancestors were banished by the Light Spirits at the behest of the gods, as the timeline of events will be important in a moment.  In Twilight Princess, we first hear about the dark interlopers and their quest for the Sacred Realm from Lanayru; there was an era of peace in Hyrule, but when word of the realm and the holy triangles within it spread, war broke out amidst the populace.  From within this greed-fueled chaos arose the interlopers, “wielding powerful sorcery” - and so great was their transgression against the goddesses that they ordered the Light Spirits to seal them away in shadow forever. (If the story of a war breaking out over the Sacred Realm sounds familiar, that’s because the Hyrulean Civil War, which ended shortly before the events of Ocarina of Time, shared the same conflict; it’s entirely possible that the two wars were one and same or overlapped in some fashion, but for this post specifically, that possibility isn’t entirely relevant.)

This era of strife is colloquially referred to as the Interloper War by many, and from Lanayru’s tale alone we can extrapolate that, at the very least, the banishment of the Twili happened before the events of Ocarina of Time; the struggle was fought over the Triforce, after all, which was claimed and broken apart in all three splits of the timeline following the events of that game.  It’s also important to note that Ganondorf was banished to the Twilight Realm shortly after the events of Ocarina of Time in the Child Timeline, and that this was long after the Twili’s ancestors had been banished there; so it can be said conclusively that the Interloper War could not have taken place between the events of Ocarina of Time and Twilight Princess.

The Sheikah, Few and Far Between

It was important that we establish a rough estimate of when, exactly, the Twili’s ancestors were banished for one very crucial reason: to shed some light one who they likely weren’t, and who they could have been.  At some point before the events of Ocarina of Time, there was a mysterious group of dark magic wielders known only as “the interlopers” that, all at once, were banished to an alternative dimension - an act that, had there been any of their tribe left behind, likely would have put a serious strain on their numbers.  And within Ocarina of Time - a game that takes place after this banishment would have occurred - we learn of a tribe who suffered one such fate:

“They say that Princess Zelda's nanny is actually one of the Sheikah, who many thought had died out.”

As we all know, Impa is the only Sheikah present in Ocarina of Time - I would argue not quite the last, if Impaz in Twilight Princess is any indication - but regardless, they are so few and far between that the general populace had one point believed them to be extinct.  Things weren’t always this way; at the very least, we can extrapolate that there were a great many Sheikah around the time of time of Skyward Sword, and even within the context of Ocarina of Time, Kakariko Village was in relatively recent history a Sheikah village that was closed off to the common people.  What truly happened to the Sheikah that drove them to near extinction is anyone’s guess, but I would argue that it was likely a combination of two things: 

the Hyrulean Civil War, which lasted very, very long, had many casualties, and the Sheikah (being in service to the Hyrulean Royal Family) were likely at the forefront of this, and

on top of this, perhaps before or even coinciding with the Civil War, a not unsubstantial number of the Sheikah broke off from their tribe, betrayed the Royal Family, and tried to claim the Triforce and the Sacred Realm as their own.

Of course, this relies on the assumption that the Sheikah could ever, under any circumstances betray the Royal Family - betray Hylia, the goddess whose bloodline it is supposedly their sworn duty to serve.  And though I will not be touching on this quite yet, I did want to bring it to attention, as it is overall a crucial piece of the puzzle - but we have some more ground to cover first.

(As for what I meant in the beginning of this segment when I said who they likely weren’t, I was specifically referring to the Gerudo, a people who many others speculated could have been the the Twili’s ancestors.  While it’s true that the Gerudo people have mysteriously vanished by the era of Twilight Princess, they are very much present in Ocarina of Time - and we have established that the banishment of the Twili’s ancestors occurred before the events of that game.)

Beings of Shadow, Enter the Twilight Realm

When all is said and done, the coincidental timing of both the banishment of the interlopers and the dwindling numbers of the Sheikah isn’t quite groundbreaking evidence of anything; after all, it would not be completely out of the realm of possibility that the Hyrulean Civil War had been entirely at fault for their dwindling numbers.  However, given what we know about how twilight affects ordinary denizens of the world of light, I would argue that Sheikah may have been the only group of people capable of becoming the Twili, and it is for this reason that I feel assured in my conclusions:

“Twilight covered Hyrule like a shroud, and without light, the people became as spirits.  Within the twilight, they live on, unaware that they have passed into spirit forms...”

This twilight - the very glow that transforms the unawares citizens into spirits and Link into a beast - is the very same “light” that pervades the Twilight Realm, and it can only be assumed that any ordinary light dwellers banished there would also become as spirits. Yet in the case of the Twili’s ancestors, this emphatically was not the case; they were able to persist, evolving over time to become the Twili we know and love today. When Midna is explaining to Link the history of her people after the duo enter the Gerudo Desert, she says this:

“What do you think happened to the magic wielders who tried to rule the Sacred Realm? They were banished. They were chased across the sacred lands of Hyrule and driven into another realm by the goddesses... Its denizens became shadows that could not mingle with the light.”

And after Link retrieves the Master Sword, breaking the curse that Zant placed on him:

“This thing is the embodiment of the evil magic that Zant cast on you.  It's definitely different from our tribe's shadow magic...”

It’s clear that the Twili and their ancestors had and continue to have a very strong connection to shadow.  We know that anyone from the world of light who enters the twilight becomes as a spirit; not even wielders of the Triforce are exempt from its effects, though it does, admittedly, affect them in different ways.  (Zelda is the one clear exception to this, an anomaly which I go over in this post - a short and recommended read before continuing.)  Just as the Twili, a people of shadow, cannot mingle in the world of light, people of light cannot mingle in the world of shadow - but the Twili are hardly the only people in the series to have a strong connection to the shadows.

"Have you heard the legend of the ‘Shadow Folk’? They are the Sheikah...the shadows of the Hylians.”

The Sheikah, time and time again, are referred to as people of shadow; Impa awakens as the Sage of Shadow, and the accursed Shadow Temple lies on the outskirts of her hometown of Kakariko.  We know that the twilight affects all whom it touches in the world of light - “light and shadow can’t mix, as we all know” - but what if the light dweller in question were a Sheikah?  How could a realm of shadows snuff out the light of one who is already a shadow?

I would like to posit, then, that even if the Twili’s ancestors had been a mixed bag of peoples and cultures drawn together by the lure of the Sacred Realm, only a people like the Sheikah - a tribe who had perfected mastery over shadow magic, so much so that they had become one with them - would have been able to persist in the anti-light of the Twilight Realm and, over centuries or perhaps millennia, evolve to become the Twili.  Anyone else would have simply become spirits upon entering the realm, doomed to spend the rest of their days neither alive nor dead.

Eyes of Red, Show Us the Truth

Now, there is one other crucial piece to this puzzle, and it revolves around one other trait that the Sheikah are known for: with the exception of Breath of the Wild (the disparity of which I have my own theories about, but I won’t get into that here), they all have red eyes.  This is something that’s never really commented on in any of the games, but it’s an important enough physiological trait that Sheik, who is merely Princess Zelda in disguise as a Sheikah, also bears the distinctive eye color.  Though it’s common knowledge that Midna’s eyes are also red (as are the rest of the Twili’s), this alone doesn’t speak much to a correlation between the two peoples; no, in order for this parallel to mean anything, we must first understand the significance of the Sheikah’s red eyes, and how exactly that ties back to the princess of twilight and the rest of her people.

First, let’s take a look at Ocarina of Time.  When Kakariko Village is attacked just before Link heads for the Shadow Temple, Sheik has this to say about Impa:

“The evil shadow spirit has been released! Impa, the leader of Kakariko Village, had sealed the evil shadow spirit in the bottom of the well... But the force of the evil spirit got so strong, the seal of the well broke, and it escaped into the world!! I believe Impa has gone to the Shadow Temple to seal it up again...”

Anyone who has played Ocarina of Time knows that the Shadow Temple is a dark and wicked place, teeming with the souls of the undead and illusions that, without the ability to see through, would completely inhibit any progress one would try to make.  As Link traverses the temple, he bears the Lens of Truth: a peculiar artifact (importantly, in the shape of a Sheikah Eye) that reveals the world as it truly is.  It is a one-of-a-kind item, and without it, no ordinary person would be able to make it through the Shadow Temple, much less fight the invisible monsters that lurk within - but Impa is no ordinary person.

The explanation is really quite simple: the Sheikah’s red eyes are not merely a distinguishing, but purely aesthetic characteristic (like the red hair of the Gerudo), but are indicative of the fact that they can see through even the strongest of illusions with the naked eye.  It’s the reason the Lens of Truth was crafted in their image; though one who wields the lens may not be a Sheikah, they, too, can view the world as one with this powerful artifact, seeing through artificial walls, finding invisible items...and even meeting the spirits of the departed.

Let’s go back to Midna; after you first meet her in the sewers of Hyrule Castle, slowly making your way to the rooftops and the imprisoned Zelda beyond, you encounter several spirits of Hyrulean soldiers along the way.  Midna taunts you, saying this:

“It looks like the spirits in here... They're all soldiers.  Where in the world could we be? Eee hee!”

As a beast, Link is now able to tap into his new “animal senses” to see that which would be invisible to his human eyes. Yet Midna is able to see the spirits as they are, naturally, without any aid whatsoever - almost as if she retained the truth-seeing eyes of her ancestors.

Before we move on, I did want to bring attention to one other thing the Twili and the Shiekah have in common - and though it’s not technically directly related to their shared ability to see the truth of the world around them, it is tangentially related in the sense that it involves illusions.  Early on in Twilight Princess, there is a scene where Midna seemingly transforms herself into Colin and subsequently Ilia, taunting Link about the capture of his friends.  It’s a somewhat strange occurrence that happens exactly once and is never brought up again, and it happens so early in the game that, for a very long time, I simply brushed it off and never gave it a second thought.

However, I think it’s pretty safe to say that what we’re seeing here is a demonstration of illusion magic - Midna is not literally shapeshifting into Link’s friends, as if she had this ability, she could simply return herself to her true form at any given moment.  This is significant because there is a fairly notable example of something identical to this in the very game I mentioned earlier in this segment; in Breath of the Wild, the Yiga Clan, a group of Sheikah who swore allegiance to Calamity Ganon, consistently over the course of the game demonstrate the ability to use illusion magic, posing as weary and lost travelers on the road, waiting to ambush Link and take him by surprise.  And though the Yiga may not technically be Sheikah anymore, they were at one time - and I find it exceptionally hard to believe that such a technique would be exclusive to the Yiga and the Yiga alone.

Echoes of the Past

I would, of course, be remiss to not touch on the various architectural and technological similarities between the two peoples.  On their own, they aren’t very substantial pieces of evidence - but if we have already accepted the fact that the Twili’s ancestors were, in fact, Sheikah (which, for the purposes of the rest of this essay, I will now do), then it is worth it at the very least to take a look, to paint a somewhat fuller picture of the story.

Take, for instance, the runes in the above photo, adorning the wall behind the throne in the Palace of Twilight.  Similar runes adorn the cloak that Midna wears while in her true form, and other miscellaneous places scattered throughout the palace.  It is not that much a stretch to say that the large emblem in the center is somewhat reminiscent of the iconic Sheikah Eye, though distorted and changed over time as it may have become.  An eye that is unmistakably Sheikah in inspiration even appears on the back of the Fused Shadow, and it is for this reason that I chose that image to head this essay to begin with.  But eyes aside, by far the most significant comparison once again returns us to Breath of the Wild, and the Sheikah as they were ten thousand years past.

The ancient-yet-highly-advanced Sheikah technology scattered across the once mighty kingdom of Hyrule in Breath of the Wild simply oozes Twili, from the harsh, blue aesthetic to the angular similarities between the script of the Sheikah and the runes of the Twili.  And while it is worth mentioning that this is decidedly technology, and not magic,  there is an argument that can be made in the world of fantasy over whether there is in fact a significant difference; looking at the image below of a room in the Palace of Twilight, floating platforms decorated in patterns resembling circuitry, it’s not hard imagine that this is nothing more than highly advanced tech, remnants of a history they left behind.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t especially matter whether either is a case of expressly magic or technology; all we can extrapolate from this information is that the Sheikah who had been banished to the Twilight Realm likely had some rudimentary knowledge of their tribe’s lost technology, had they been banished in an era when it already was lost - or, at the very least, had the same design sensibilities.  Whatever the case, it is worth is to try and acknowledge the potential connection, as there is much that can be gleaned by examining the world around us and its history - even a fictional one - and to that end, I would now like to begin wrapping up this unnecessarily long piece of persuasion by doing just that.

Those Who Do Not Learn From History...

...are doomed to repeat it, as the saying goes.  Taking everything I’ve written here into consideration, it’s not hard to construe a conceivable timeline of events that could have led to the birth of the Twili, and the eventual invasion of the world of light headed by Zant.  Long ago, in an age ravaged by a war over a lust for the Sacred Realm, a sector of Sheikah betrayed the Hyrulean Royal Family, split off from the main clan, and sought their own power - and if the story of a Sheikah betrayal sounds at all familiar, that’s because it emphatically is.

Breath of the Wild is an anomaly in many respects; it seems to defy all expectations of what we understand about the timeline, reviving a people (the Sheikah) who, for all intents and purposes, died out long ago - but it paints a very important picture of what the Shadow Folk had to endure serving underneath the Royal Family of Hyrule, a picture that elucidates precisely why such a betrayal would conceivably take place.  The story of the Yiga Clan is, ultimately, one rooted oppression - and though I could go into great detail about the nature of this oppression here, and quite frankly the justification for their cause, I’ve already done so in this post, which I would again encourage be read by anyone who cares about the subject.  Very basically, the Yiga were right - having been cast out and mistreated by the very family they served, they did the only thing they could, and turned against them.  Glimpses of this mistreatment are riddled in previous entries of the series, but no more jarringly than in Ocarina of Time’s Shadow Temple: a place that likely was once a sacred place to the Sheikah people, reduced to nothing more than a haunted torture chamber recounting Hyrule’s “bloody history of greed and hatred" under direct orders by the Royal Family.  In Twilight Princess, Zant specifically refers to Link as “one of the light dwellers who oppressed [their] people” while talking to Midna at Lanayru Spring - and though I would not go so far as to say that Zant was completely justified in his actions, perhaps he had a point.  Perhaps the story of the Twili’s ancestors isn’t one of a an evil, mindless group of powerful interlopers who sought power for power’s sake - but one of fierce retaliation.  One of a group of people who had soiled their hands with the blood of the Royal Family one final time and said enough.  I believe that the Twili’s ancestors were Sheikah, and I will continue to believe it until proven otherwise; for all the reasons listed above, and also because, frankly, if I were a Sheikah, I would betray the Royal Family, too.  It happened once - so it will happen again - and again, and again, until the cycle of violence and oppression is studied and learned from, and the truth comes out.

But then, so long as history is written by the winners, it will take more than the red eyes of a Sheikah to parse the truth from the lies.

[sifu-zutara]

Hey guys!!

So I’ve had this account for years and I started it just to keep track of fics for myself and to share some with you guys. Recently it’s really blown back up and I’m so thankful!! It’s so nice to hear from you guys especially in quarantine which is still going pretty strong where I live. Normally I only ever reblog fic recs that other people have made because I’ve been too nervous to make my own but I felt that it was time👍🏻 I’ll try to organize this the best I can but I hope you all enjoy!! Please let me know if anyone would want something similar to this in the future ❤️❤️

Also just an FYI, all these fics are completed. I’ll post the rating and word count just to make things a little easier for you guys :) 

The Last Waterbender by myshipsaresunk on ao3. Rated G. 329,294 words

 “AU where Katara is the Avatar// While on a quest to restore his honour, Zuko stumbles across a girl stranded on an iceberg. Katara has no memories when she wakes from the ice. They journey together through the South Pole, Zuko trying to find the Avatar and Katara trying to regain her memories. A cruel twist of fate pits their destinies against each other and even as Katara is accepting her legacy as the Avatar, Zuko must decide between her and his destiny.”

mnemosyne by skai_heda on ao3. Rated T. 8,287 words

“And then she dreams of Zuko, of getting to him too late. Murmured words too quiet to decipher, amber eyes going glassy, star-shaped wound hot to the touch.

She doesn't wake with shaking breaths or with fingers clutching at the sheets; she doesn't wake with a pained yelp, or even with tears on her eyes. No, all she has in the wake of her nightmares is the dull, hazy silence of morning. Katara opens her eyes without movement after nightmares, staring up at the ceiling with her heart pounding so hard that it hurts, but it never shows on her face. Even alone, she can't seem to shed the mask of normalcy, of passive contentment.

Katara is glad that her dreams are infrequent, to put things simply. She has enough to worry about without them.”

how rare and beautiful we found each other by antarcticas on ao3. No rating. 9109 words

““Prince Zuko,” she quirks up at him, hands over her chest in a gesture that is more assertive than angry.

“Lady Katara,” he responds in kind, his eyes searing into hers. “It is good to see you again. I will admit, a part of me yesterday believed you wouldn’t come back.”Katara and Zuko fall in love in a world without war.”

The Color of the Stars by bluenebulae on ao3. Rated T. 172,326 words

“One moment changes the course of history. Katara and Zuko are imprisoned by the Fire Nation Army during the Day of Black Sun, and when they escape, they find themselves adrift in the Fire Nation with no one to rely on but each other. With only six weeks before Sozin’s Comet arrives and four nations to cross, the pair must track down Katara’s allies, save the world—and learn to trust each other.”

Our Strange Duet by Ally147 on ao3. Rated T. 22,300 words

“She makes one last adjustment of the ornate collar, then looks up at him and smiles. “You look good, Fire Lord.”

He huffs. “Don’t call me that.”

“Why not? That’s what you are, isn’t it? What you’re going to be?”

“Not to you.” The look in his eyes stops her in her tracks and settles somewhere deep inside her. “Never to you.”

Katara Alone by cablesscutie on ao3. Rated T. 21,047 words

“The war is over, and with it goes the only life she has ever known. In this era of love and peace, the world is becoming new, and Katara is unsure of her place in it. That's okay though. Katara has rebuilt her life from scratch before, and she will do it again.”

Half Asleep by crushinator on ao3. Rated T. 82,362 words

“Five years after the Hundred-Year War, Fire Lord Zuko is hit with an assassin's dart, and falls into a coma from which he cannot wake. A week passes, and his prognosis is grim. But Katara could swear she hears him in her dreams.”

Lightning Strikes in Her Eyes by cynical_mystic on ao3. No rating. 33,313 words

“Three years after the end of the Hundred Year War, Katara is questioning her relationship with the Avatar. On the other side of the world, Fire Lord Zuko is struggling with an uprising in the Fire Nation. What happens when the two collide, haunted by the day Zuko saved her life? This is my take on Zutara, and covers some things that were left unsaid in the show. Loosely based on the comics in some places.”

The Blackfish and the Dragon by ama on ao3. Rated M. 102,800 words

“Katara grew up in the Southern Water Tribe under the tutelage of Hama, the only waterbender ever to have escaped Fire Nation captivity. When Zuko arrives at the South Pole, seeking the Avatar, they are more than ready to defend him. Iroh watches as his beloved nephew throws himself at the ice walls again and again in an impossible siege–-and resolves to do anything it takes to save his nephew from himself. With the assistance of the Order of the White Lotus, he deposes his brother on the Day of Black Sun.

A week later, the Southern Water Tribe receives a petition for peace, and a proposal of marriage.”

Something Brewing by Draco_sollicitus on ao3. Rated E. 28,297 words

“When Katara returns to visit the Fire Nation after nearly a year away, Zuko is struck by how much his feelings towards her have changed.

It's all he can do to not blurt his emotions out to her, or to make a fool of himself -- but, with some advice from Uncle Iroh, Zuko decides to be patient in his courting of the Waterbender.

And, it yields some ... interesting results.”

So I think for now this is all I have, If you guys like this let me know and I’ll start another one with some more recommendations :) Hope everyone is doing ok!!

[catharsistine]

To Write A Good Villain

TW: loss of control, hallucinogenics, dr*gs, sc*rs, venom, bl*od, death, defeat, s*x, god, volcanoes, pr*dtors, m*rder, j*alousy, smoking, ab*se, cheating, sl*very, oppression, servitude, vampires, destruction.

Technically, I'm here on Tumblr as a writer. So. It's time I contributed my itty bitty bit.

Many things make a good story. Some claim it is world-building, some think it the cast of protagonists, some the vivid descriptions. All of those elements, however, will seem lacklustre, if your story does not have a good villain. What use is an MC with glorious superpowers or magic, if there is nothing to oppose them? Can there be any victory without a great evil?

In real life? Perhaps. In any fictional world? No. The readers tune in for awesome conflict, so we writers must provide, and enjoy ourselves while doing so.

So what does make a great villain?

Before we explore that, let us review the types of villains. Most important to remember is that a villain need not be human. In literature, there can be many types of discord:

- Person Vs Self: Often used as a compelling subplot, this kind of conflict is valid when a person needs to do something that is opposed to their inner self, something they find morally, emotionally or intellectually repulsive. Eg; A scholar forced to indulge in activities that are unscientific, like smoking when they know it is bad for their health. A pacifist who is forced into a war situation and must commit murder to save their own or their family's lives. A person seeking enlightenment struggles with jealousy when their guru finds a new favourite. (IMPORTANT: Feeling conflicted due to one's morals is acceptable. Hating oneself due to a mental disorder is not. Please do not use mental illness as a plot point.)

- Person Vs Person: Often used as a primary plot point in standalone stories and movies, this kind of conflict is valid when a person bears a personal grudge or hatred toward another. Eg; A wrestler hating someone who defeated them in the ring through sabotage. A child-hating the murderer that orphaned them and their sibling. A person hating their lover who manipulated, gas-lit or cheated on them. (IMPORTANT: Ensure that abuse and abusers are not romanticized, that the healing journey of the character does not lead to them forgiving their abuser. Forgiveness is not a prerequisite for closure. Please do not encourage abuser-abused relationships.)

- Person Vs Society: Often used as a primary plot point in dystopian stories and movies, this kind of conflict is valid when a person aims to fight against a law or a government that systematically oppresses them. Eg; A womon fighting against the law which considers them as lower-class citizens. A PoC fighting against slave laws. A member of the working class rebelling against the bourgeoisie. (IMPORTANT: If you are not a minority, do not presume you are qualified to tell their story. Our stories belong to us alone, and taking away from us the privilege of sharing our trauma when we feel comfortable enough to do so is the worst kind of representation. Please remember if you occupy a position of power, you have no right to speak on our behalf. Already we are often silenced, do not participate in that further if you claim to be an ally.)

- Person Vs Machine: Often used as a primary plot point in science fiction stories and movies, this kind of conflict is valid when any man-made object gains enough intelligence to be considered sentient and becomes a threat to humanity. Eg; A machine that acts as a maid desiring to be free of the bonds of its servitude. An AI which does not have empathy and value for human life. A robot that attempts to destroy mankind. (IMPORTANT: These conflicts are often intricate, and can be spun anyway. Perhaps a human tries to teach a robot to love, and the result is embarrassing in a comedic way. But do not try to equate people on the asexual and aromantic spectrums, people with mental illness or people with severe trauma to these AI. They are extremely discriminated against. Please, do not contribute to the stigma.)

- Person Vs Nature: Often used as a compelling subplot, this kind of conflict is valid when a person is pitted against fauna and flora in a vulnerable state. Eg; A captive who has escaped their bonds only to come upon a harsh landscape. A person with severe allergies visits a place that is opposed to their disposition. A person with a grudge against a famous wild animal who bit off their leg. (IMPORTANT: In many such stories, a trend is that a character comes across a hostile tribal group. These tribes are portrayed only the negative attributes of certain PoC cultures. Doing so is blatantly racist and highly offensive. Please refrain from representing us in such appalling ways.)

- Person Vs Fate/Supernatural: Often used as a primary plot point in fantasy and YA stories and movies, this kind of conflict is valid when a person is threatened or working against a force that is outside nature. Eg; A person coming across a magical artefact belonging to a god, and the devil's henchmen are after it, but it has bonded to them. A lower-level employee working in a tampon factory accidentally discovering their boss is a deadly vampire. A person falling in love, only to discover their partner is heir to a clan of selkies, and their younger sibling plans on overthrowing them. (IMPORTANT: Oftentimes, the villains are given physical and cultural attributes exclusive to PoC and their culture, like the antagonist having dreadlocks or enjoying food that lies outside white cuisine. Please realise that is racist.)

How to create a proper villain:

1. Motive.

Arguably the most important factor in a villain is motive. Their end goal must be reasonable(depends on their moral compass), achievable(depends on their means), and must cause moral conflict in the protagonist.

Eg; Due to childhood trauma, a villain feels weak and unsafe in their own skin. Adopting a terrifying persona, they seek to control everyone around them, and by extension, the world, through a potent hallucinogen. Considered worthless until they design a new identity, the villain is only considered a threat when they overthrow a monarchy/gain obscene amounts of money/create a giant machine. The MC knows that the villain is wrong in their actions, but understands that their henchmen are drugged, and must choose a different course of action than brute force to defeat them.

2. Power/Skill

Expanding on the earlier point of a goal being achievable, a villain must have the capabilities to obtain the prize they desire. If they perform actions outside their means, the entire premise becomes boring and unrealistic. Unless the villain is playing pretend for a future plot twist, humble the antagonist before they get out of hand.

Eg; A machine cannot destroy the world if they do not have an intricate base code if they are not linked to machines around the world. An animal cannot be famous unless its existence is questionable unless it is more mythical than real unless it possesses some quality (a missing tooth, a scar across their eye) that the others of its breed do not have. Kindness cannot be a source of a moral dilemma if it is not shown in many actions of the protagonist.

3. Appearance.

Contrary to popular belief, the way a villain looks contributes greatly to their story. If the appearance of an antagonist does not match their other attributes, the villain may fall flat and feel one-dimensional.

Eg; If a person comes from humbler beginnings, them wearing designer clothes is not feasible. A wealthier person should at least maintain the appearance of being well-groomed, but a few things out of place, such as a tie clip, messy eyeliner, or stubble are acceptable, perhaps due to lack of respect for themselves, or mania from unfulfilled desires. If a plant is secretly venomous, let insects keep away from it. If a werewolf is known to violently transition, let them have a feral look in their eye, larger canines and stronger jawbones.

4. Presence

Outside of appearance, the overall vibe of the villain is of the utmost importance. Their aesthetic instils fear, inspires awe, which is one of the primary things that cause audiences to secretly root for them. Their smooth delivery of scathing, savage lines makes us fall in love with them. Having a stellar, scary presence amplifies whatever the villain does tenfold.

Eg; If a villain wears a daring dress, different from the style of their era, it will make them seem much more impressive. Fresh after a murder, if they have blood splattered on their face, it will make the ghastliness of their actions more resounding. If they're haunting little children, having grotesque features instead of sharp ones will terrify the kids more, and the readers.

5. Backstory

Why did the villain become a villain in the first place? This is perhaps the most important question when it comes to antagonists. Not only do backstories help us understand the villain's motives and reasons better, but readers may also root for them if they glimpse a part of them reflected in the villain, making the tale more painful to read.

Eg; If a bully has been abused at home, it explains their actions. If a villain was in a situation where their body was not theirs, their actions may be born out of a desire for control.

Things to avoid:

1. Do not make them a caricature. Avoid toxic and dull stereotypes such as "catty ex-girlfriend", "sex-crazed womon", "evil old pr*dator" etc. Not only are these caricatures cartoonish and overused, but they also make a villain hollow and lifeless. Villains are humans too, give them quirks, bad habits and things they enjoy, beliefs of their own. (Eg; They enjoy watching cat videos, smoke or bite their nails, enjoy mixing drinks for fun, and think God is a hoax.)

2. Avoid coding them as PoC or LGBTQ+. If you have a diverse cast of various races, ethnicities, sexualities and genders, then it is completely alright to write another such character as the villain. However, if your only minority character is the villain, that is highly problematic.

3. A backstory does not equate to sympathy. If the villain's actions are extremely reprehensible, including and not limited to; r*pe, g*nocide, ab*se or s*rial murder, please do not try to redeem them. Understanding someone's motives is wildly different from making the audiences sympathize with them. Do not romanticize their flaws.

4. Lastly, humble them. A villain will always entertain the audiences if they suffer a bit too. Instead of constant angst and pain, add lighter moments, moments where they stumble, trip, are tired or bored. This would make their eventual death/defeat burn even more, and the audience will definitely mourn the loss of a wonderful antagonist.

Like a volcano, a true villain leaves ashes in their wake, but their fire forces the protagonists to solidify into stone. Let their actions echo into the age.

[latenightcinephile]

#703: 'Marketa Lazarová', dir. František Vláčil, 1967.

Marketa Lazarová is a slightly unusual film for me, because its effects go slightly beyond my ability to articulate or explain them. I originally saw it at a Film Society screening in 2015 or 2016, back when I was able to go to movies at 6 p.m. on a Monday evening, and it enthralled me then, splayed wide across the screen at the Paramount in crisp black and white. I knew very little of Czech cinema at the time and, embarrassingly, still haven't seen very much. Coming back to it five years later, it still holds a lot of that arcane power that it had. Marketa Lazarová is simultaneously a meditative experience and a gut punch.

František Vláčil was one of the Czech filmmakers who was originally trained with the Army Film Division, which surprisingly became a breeding ground for avant-garde filmmaking styles. Vláčil became disillusioned with the types of historical films that were being produced at the time, which seemed to him to feature contemporary people pretending to be characters from the past. What was needed instead, he argued, was a more immediate form of historical cinema that made audiences feel like they were witnessing history rather than a lacklustre interpretation of it. In order to achieve this, he frequently joined his cast and crew on long-term shoots where they lived in the types of conditions that the characters would. Sets were built using traditional methods, and scripts were written using archaic dialects to avoid that common experience of characters speaking in a recognisably modern way. The shoot for Marketa Lazarová lasted almost two years in these conditions.

The film's plot concerns three groups. The Kozlík clan, a family under the helm of a robber baron, robs a noble entourage and takes Kristian, the son of the bishop, hostage. Before Kozlík's sons can return to claim their loot, a neighbouring clan led by Lazar steals the spoils. Lazar is saved from being killed when a vision of a nunnery on a hillside appears. One of the chief themes of this film, alluded to early on, is the conflict between paganism and early Christianity. The two worldviews are muddy and indistinct, but the difference between them is what drives a lot of the retribution in the film. Kristian falls in love with one of Kozlík's daughters, Alexandra, while Kozlík's son, Mikoláš, falls in love with Lazar's daughter, Marketa, whom he has taken as a hostage in retaliation for Lazar refusing to side with Kozlík against the king and the bishop. In addition to the religious dimension, then, there is also an ongoing theme of where one's loyalties lie - with existing morals (family, God) or with the person you love. Over the course of this epic, the fates of all three groups trend downhill: members of each of these bands are slaughtered and betrayed; Kozlík and Alexandra are imprisoned; Marketa is released by Mikoláš but rejected by Lazar. The film's conclusion seems to suggest that it is Marketa, and the future generations she helps to bring into the world, that will be able to overcome the divisions that affected the clans so catastrophically, but also acknowledges that these types of conflicts are part of the human experience.

As vast and interwoven the plot of the film is, it's not what makes the experience of watching quite so transcendent. What makes this film feel like an out-of-body experience is Vláčil's use of non-linear and non-realistic techniques. Parts of the film's story are told in flashback, but without any explicit indication that this is happening. At times we see disconnected, hallucinatory images that only make sense when they are contextualised later on. One example of this is an erotic scene between Alexandra (Pavla Polášková) and a young man, who we assume to be Kristian (Vlastimil Harapes). It's only later that we discover that this is a flashback to an abortive romance between Alexandra and her brother Adam (Ivan Palúch) - a man I had initially disqualified from appearing here because Adam only has one arm in the current scenes. Revealing that it is Adam propels the story forward in traditionally linear fashion, but also causes the viewer to reassess the film's earlier scene to determine why these images are included there. These images are made further alien by their unexpected visual qualities: the sex scene takes place in a field of summer grain, but most of the film's 'present day' takes place in winter and early spring. Rather than ascribe them to an unmotivated flashback, it seems easier to read them as a poetic hallucination, and then Vláčil returns to reorganise what we had previously believed of the narrative.

As well as the narrative structure, Vláčil frequently employs long periods of silence and a seeming mismatch of cinematography, where figures are either oddly close to the camera or absurdly far away. On a deep level, it feels like nobody, even the director, has total control over what is being portrayed - like we've entered a kind of fugue state in which cinema just happens regardless of how legible its results are. Although its filming process was so long, the resulting scenes feel accidental or improvisational, culled down from a vast amount of footage.

While many of these techniques give us the experience of watching a dream of an imagined past, these techniques are also quite violent and confrontational. Even when the shots are distant or filmed in long takes, they're cut together in a jarring way, and the lack of a straightforward narrative makes it difficult on the viewer too. The activity implied in this method of editing, a complicated soundscape and opaque narrative combine to make Marketa Lazarová a film that feels very immediate and present. As Tom Gunning put it, writing for Criterion about his early encounters with the film, "an energized mobile camera and abrasive editing peers into a primitive era of human history." Just as the characters of the film are quick to anger and quick to act, the film also lacks temperance. This is a film of life and death in its most vital forms, and so it makes a certain kind of sense that Vláčil would, in defiance of the typical historical film, try and remove any layer of modern logic or reason that would prevent us from experiencing the film's events in a visceral way. This is also why the myth of the werewolf hangs so heavily over the film - invoked a few times by Kozlík's wife, and present in the appearance of his children and their uncanny survival abilities - it both defies modern logic and refers to a particularly corporeal type of monster.

Vláčil structures Marketa Lazarová with sudden intertitles that refer to the events and themes that we are about to see, in a poetic way that recalls the chapter titles of a 19th-century novel. 'On the Lot of Widows' and 'Who in the Past Brewed with Hops' provide the vantage point of someone placed about the action, narrating it to us in a distant sort of way. The music is similar: both ancient and modern, it frequently uses atonal incantations. Taken together, it feels like this story is being shouted at us from a distant time when things were more tactile. "The presence of animals and plants, the textures of stone and tree bark, of snow and marsh water," Gunning writes, "cling to us as we watch, often overriding the narrative."

The grand experience of watching this film is partly contradictory, then: this is a film that feels very modern, tells a story from the past, alludes to contemporary struggles, and when situated in Czech film history is wildly experimental. Gunning sees this film as being, in some respects, a statement about what Vláčil thought cinema could be, in those days of the 1960s where most national cinemas were experiencing their own variations on the New Wave that had developed in France. The experimental aspects of the films of Godard and Varda would be subsumed into the traditional toolbox of cinema and lose some of their vibrancy as a result - either directors would use them for blockbuster films or extend them into a new type of experimental film that was sterile and aloof.Considering this, it's worth appreciating exactly how daring Vláčil was being here: under a Communist regime, making a film about paganism, bestiality, sadism, incest, and torture. With all this darkness, Marketa Lazarová is a bright film, even funny at times. Humanity is a fallen, self-destructive thing, but there is something about this way of life, before it was layered deep underneath civilisation, reason and enlightenment, that was exciting and vibrant.

Does civilisation mean we lose something of our potential? The final narration of Marketa Lazarová tells us that these cycles of mistrust and anger are likely to repeat through the generations, but is that a price Vláčil thinks is worth paying? The urgency and difficulty of life in the distant past was inseparable from the superstitions of the time, but the urges were easier to sate, at least temporarily. The taming of these clans, like the taming of the avant-garde techniques Vláčil employs here, might have been inevitable, but this film shows that there is something valuable there nonetheless.

[simplicity1511]

Yashahime EPISODE 1 Review

I just finished the first episode of Yashahime and OMFG!!!!!!!

There are so many emotions running through me right now as someone who watched the original series on YTV Bionix. I remember being like 5 and 6 and staying up late to watch it, sometimes even falling asleep before it aired. It’s original air time was 11pm but by the time I was around 8-9 years old, the show started airing at 9pm. 

I remember asking my aunt to wait up until I finished my favorite show before I went to bed because we were going to the airport that night to visit my cousin who had recently given birth to her second kid and I was tagging along. I remember it being the episode Kohoku regains his memories. Good thing I didn’t miss it but I sure do remember being disappointed that I wasn’t seeing InuYasha and the gang that episode.

Speaking of our boy Kohoku, it looks like he has a new weapon (that is correct, ladies and gents, our boy appears in the first episode!!) However, not adult Kohaku, our itty bitty boy from the original series.

For those that didn’t get a chance to read the manga, there's an epilogue chapter that deals with the root demon that our gang ends up fighting in the first episode and it appears to have maybe merged with the Tree of Ages. I suspect this because it shows a hole in the tree in the same location as Kikyo’s arrow had been when she shot InuYasha to it. I’m curious to see what shit this root ends up stirring.

However, the most interesting thing I discovered was not from the episode itself but  from the opening sequence as well as the next episode preview. From the looks of it, it appears as if all three girls have a pearl, Towa’s is Silver, Setsuna’s is Gold and Moroha is Red. Now given the fact that in the original series pearls played a role not once but twice in the series, both in the beginning and end, and they appear multiple times in the opening and ending sequences of the show, we know they're going to play an important role. 

The first time they appear in the original series is when our sexy Sesshomaru was trying to look for Tessaiga. In this case, the pearl was located in InuYasha’s eye and led to the land of the dead which is where we come across the bones of Inu-Pops.

The second time is when they looked for one of the last shards of the jewel which just happened to have been in the possession of the demon who created the pearl who was also located at the grave of our beloved Inu-Pops.

We also know that this demon had a son who was continuing his work at creating pearls as this is how we learn that his father, who had created InuYasha’s pearl, had already died. The most logical conclusion is the son most likely created the pearls for our three ladies. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that in the opening song, you will notice that at some point Towa’s eye starts glowing, and it has a similar appearance as InuYasha’s did when we see the pearl first appear. We know these pearls have strange abilities and for whatever reason each girl was given one. Given the fact that the girls have no knowledge of their parents, it appears that this was most likely hatched by our boys to help their daughters in whatever way possible. Much in the same way Inu-Pops gave his two swords, Tessaiga and Tenseiga to his two sons to protect them and teach them something even if he wasn’t around to do it.

Now speaking of our boys, Sesshomaru is still as sexy as ever and it appears as if he tries to stay close to the village in order to reach Rin as swiftly as possible. That or he has some teleportation ability we don’t know about but with how fast he moves, he might as well have it.

For those of us who grew up with InuYasha being torn between Kagome and Kikyo and the constant conflict that it caused throughout the series, it was kinda refreshing to see it again and see how they both behaved as adults regarding those emotions

I found Kagome’s handling of it really fascinating because by this point she’s already sorted out her feelings for Kikyo, yet InuYasha still thinks that Kikyo causes Kagome pain which in the beginning she did but Kagome has moved past that pain and she knows who she is as a person beyond just being her reincarnation. 

I think it’s further indicated when we first see Kagome and she shows the twins a kikyo root which is supposed to be good for coughs and fevers. When it panels to Sango we can see the surprise on her face as to hearing Kagome mention Kikyo’s name (you know it was an intentional  reference especially if you’ve read the manga and know what kind of demon Miroku and InuYasha  are fighting). Knowing this, still didn’t keep me from being surprised. I feel like just like the plant, Kagome has come to admire Kikyo’s strength as a priestess, something she’s trying to achieve herself as a Priestess in Training.

The original series dealt with a lot of Kagome’s identity being referenced as Kikyo and other characters trying to erase her individuality as just another copy of Kikyo. Something that Naruku did pretty frequently especially using the feelings Kagome had towards InuYasha against them on multiple occasions using Kikyo.

Just like how in the first episode of the original series where InuYasha kept calling Kagome, Kikyo when they first met, Kagome has to tell off the root demon and clarify that she is Ka-go-me, NOT Kikyo. 

I really liked all the symbolism this episode had and the references to the original series especially given that Towa ends up encountering a broken seat from a bike in the Feudal Era and as we know Kagome has had her bike destroyed and replaced, many a times throughout the series. 

The fact that Towa is someone whose been raised in the future by the brother of the woman who travels to the past is very interesting given the fact that she is the daughter of Seshomaru whose InuYasha’s older brother who besides Kagome was the only other person to be able to travel in time.

I’m wondering what makes InuYasha/Sesshomaru’s blood special as it appears as if all three girls were able to travel to the future so if Seshomaru himself had tried going through the bone eaters well, could he too have travelled to the future like InuYasha? 

Kagome was able to travel due to the Jewel of Four Souls and once that was destroyed her connection to the past was severed so I’m curious to see how the past and future end up connecting the three girls together because it was Kagome and InuYasha’s love in the end that reopened the well three years later. However, we know in the current timeline that the well is closed which makes me wonder what kind of fate these three girls share as the Half Demon Princesses (also Princesses of what may I ask?)

On a final note, in both series there are demon birds, the first a carrion crow demon who likes shiny things like the jewel, another an owl who is wise and has knowledge of the past. I suspect that this demon will play a key role in how this story ends up progressing, much in the same way the crow did.

Being a long time fan of the show, I remember being really sad when the series ended and frustrated when they didn’t defeat Naraku by the end of the original anime run. My head would constantly have ideas of what their future would have been like once the pesky fellow was dead and once I had gotten a computer (at age 11) and I discovered manga sites, I finally got an answer to my question.

Then a few years later, teenage me finally got those last chapters animated. I was finally blessed with my ending so I’ll be real frank with you when I say I was not happy this show was coming. While everyone else was freaking out that Seshomaru fucked someone, I was wondering, what could have caused Kagome and InuYasha to abandon their daughter which would be totally out of character for the both of them especially given InuYasha’s childhood. I doubt he would have abandoned his daughter given having lost his mother at such a young age himself and never knowing who his dad was until much later in his life. He would never want his own daughter to experience the loneliness and struggle he did before he met Kagome, Sango and Miroku.

Now having watched the first episode I can’t say my fears are dissipated for this unwanted sequel series as we have yet to know what happened so the possibility that its a shitty reason for why Moroha is alone is still high meaning the possibly my favorite characters are shit on is still there.

This series means a lot given the time I watched InuYasha my family had recently immigrated to Canada and while most people were into Pokemon at my age, which don’t get me wrong, I was too. 

I was far more fascinated by a girl who travelled through time in a fantasy world where she meets a cute dog demon boy and develops strong friendships, a budding romance and never loses herself. To a little girl who was also in a strange new country of her own, she was my role model. 

She’s the reason I wanna learn archery at some point in my life and helped me to grow to be the strong independent woman I am today.

Even at 24 years of age, this is still my favorite series and I love all the symbolism and references to the old series while also having its own fresh perspective that Yashahime provides. It doesn’t mean that my skepticism has been cured.

When I watched InuYasha, I got Kagome, Sango, Kikyo, Kaede and Kagura (her death is still so beautifully tragic) and now a whole new generation of girls are going to get Towa our leader, the calm and cool collected Setsuna and our charge first and ask questions later Moroha (just like her dad :’). I can’t wait to see how they grow and hopefully how their beloved parents grew.

InuYasha for me was my first conceptual understanding of anime and where my love for it came from. I’m looking forward to seeing how this story progresses. But I won’t be afraid of criticizing it regardless of the good first impression I got.

Also, does anyone else get reminded of Miroku’s wind tunnel when they see InuYasha’s Meido Zangetsuha? Just me?

Now time to listen to that opening and ending on repeat.

See You Next Week!

[k7l4d4]

Two New AUs (Loud House & Amphibia)

Today I am rolling out two new AUs for all you folks looking for something to help fill the hole in your lives that only inspiration can! ...That was too over the top and I apologize for it. First off, my Loud House AU, Ring Me Up!

Did somebody call for a hero!? I had an idea for DC Crossover with The Loud House, and I was hoping to share it with everyone. Has anyone heard of the H-Dial? Not to worry for those who haven't, as I will explain! The H-Dial, also called the Hero Dial, is a device that allows someone to tap into a location known as the Hero-Verse, a dimension where every possible superhero that ever was, is, or will be, no matter how improbable, is connected. By dialing HERO, the wielder of the H-Dial can turn into any hero throughout the Multi-Verse! But it's totally random, so you can get either something totally amazing, or incredibly bizarre, and the second is far more likely unfortunately. Enter Lincoln Loud, a seemingly ordinary boy with a less than ordinary family who find the H-Dial. The version he finds is a bit different, as it is an experimental proof-of-concept with an unusual nature; rather than turn the wielder into a hero, it turns someone close to the wielder into one instead! To use it, Lincoln enters HERO into the Dial, and then presses a number. 1: The Determined, heroes with nothing special to them, with either very weak powers or none at all, they became heroes due to the hard work they put in and nothing less. The avatar of this number is Lori. 2: The Gentle, heroes whose greatest strength isn't their powers, but rather their compassion and connection with others, they will reach out to save anyone, even a villain. The avatar of this number is Leni. 3: The Gifted, heroes who were lost in life, without purpose or direction, until something or someone not only inspired them to be more, but gave them the ability to do it. The avatar of this number is Luna. 4: The Manic, heroes who don't always fit in to society, filled with boundless energy, and a though process that is absolutely unique. The avatar of this number is Luan. 5: The Mighty, heroes of strength and prowess, the ferocity within them can never be restrained, whether for good or ill, they invariably have powers that either let them hit, or be hit, harder and longer. The avatar of this number is Lynn. 6: The Tired, heroes who are not accepted by society, defined by the suffering they have endured, they constantly walk the border between the light and the dark. The avatar of this number is Lucy. 7: The Wild, heroes of nature, they aren't afraid to get rough and tumble, and thrive off of what most civilized folks struggle with. The avatar of this number is Lana. 8: The Elegent, heroes who have it all, grace, beauty, power, they constantly battle the temptation to do bad with all that they have, as beneath their beauty lies something twisted. The avatar of this number is Lola. 9: The Brilliant, heroes defined by their minds, who dedicated themselves to using their gifts not just to benefit mankind in the long-term, but the here-and-now as well. The avatar of this number is Lisa. 0: The Future, heroes who embody all the hopes and dreams of a brighter tomorrow, who have walked to the abyss and seen not horror, but unrealized potential and beauty. The avatar of this number is Lily. What do you all think? The above AU requires no hard knowledge of DC Comics, as the only element from DC is the H-Dial, one of the most obscure relics of power in all of DCU Publishing History!

The next AU is for Amphibia, and is what I like to call, Alone Together. Note: This is meant to be a Superhero Reconstruction AU, in which the idea is to breakdown the premise and uplifting notions of comic books heroes, and then build them back up. Here we GO!!! Also, the name of the AU is Gifted Calamities.

Long ago, the Outer Rulers were, well, bored. They had existed for so long, experienced so much, that they struggled to find anything to break the monotony of their immortal existence; it would not be wrong to say that they had been driven mad from boredom!! Yet, soon, they came across a world, just starting to fill with life, and thought of an idea. They had experienced so much, why not make something instead? Falling to the world, which had only just started developing its civilizations, they came upon its people, the humans. With mischief and intrigue within whatever counted for them as hearts, they blessed upon the simple race three gifts: Wisdom, Strength, and Heart. With the seeds of their entertainment planted, the Outer Rulers vanished, eager to see what fruits would bloom under the labor of their unknowing pawns.

As humanity found the Three Gifts, they were enthralled; with Wisdom, no knowledge was beyond their understanding, with Strength, no feat was too daring to accomplish, and with Heart, no soul was beyond salvation. But as with all power, there came those who coveted it for themselves and themselves alone; the Order of the Hungry Beast. This ancient brotherhood found the power as enthralling as their brethren, yet where the others saw beauty, they saw only their most depraved wants and whims come to life. With Wisdom, no scheme could fail, with Strength, no nation could not be conquered, and with Heart, no soul could not fall under their sway. As the Order grew in influence, they encroached upon the Gifts, drawing them deeper and deeper into their clutches. Yet, one day, a young nomad, gifted in the ways of Heart, came upon them in the dead of night, as they schemed to kill the village that held the Gifts and seize them for themselves. Horrified, the nomad, roared in alarm, her furious shriek rousing the village to action. Coming in droves, the humble village, tasked for all these years with guarding the Three Gifts, stormed outward, horrified to see that the members of the Order, those they called brother, sister, mother, father, son, and daughter, were plotting against them.

A great clash rocked the land as the Order of the Beast and the Villagers, headed by the young Nomad, battled to decide once and for all how the power of the Gifts would be used; would they be gifts of wonder, bringing humanity closer together, or gifts of strife, driving humanity against one another in eternal darkness? As more and more members of each side fell, the Nomad looked on in sorrow; for every one of the Order who were taken, three or more of the villagers were lost. It was a battle of attrition, one that they were losing! What could be done? Yet, over the din and cacophony of battle, the Nomad could here two fierce cheers; the young inventress, barred from the conflict due to a broken leg, and the chief guard’s apprentice, who volunteered to protect the children, both yelling to the heavens: “Don’t give up. You haven’t lost. You can still win. We believe you will win, so win!” As the Nomad, heard them cheer, her heart filling with joy and resolve, something... sparked. 

Just as the feeling came, it quelled at the sight of two soldiers from the Order rushed the cheering onlookers, hell-bent on silencing their voices that bolstered the hearts and resolve of the Villagers. As her heart filled with dread at the no doubt bloody sight to come, the Nomad reached out, screams of warning resting on her lips, only to fall silent as the two cheering onlookers sprung into action; the injured inventor pulled a peculiar apparatus, and launched a bolt of sharpened wood into the soldier nearest to her, and apprentice guard sprung into action, crashing down onto the hapless enemy with a fierce grin. Both turned to the Nomad, seemingly seeing her across the carnage and chaos of the battle field, and nodded. As the spark once more burned into her heart, the Nomad turned to the oncoming hoard of Soldiers and said this: “You may rage and struggle, lash out and torment with your cruelty and selfishness all you like. But you will never win. Not because we are stronger than you, that we are more than you, but because, unlike you, we have not forgotten the first Gift humanity ever had. The Gift of HOPE!” With a roar, hearts filled with the Hope burning through the Nomad’s cry, the Villagers, resolve honed into an unstoppable force, leapt into the final clash.

It was over. The Villagers had one. With the final rally of the Nomad, they pulled together the strength to break and scatter the cowardly Order. Yet, in the end, the victory was bitter-sweet. The Nomad, a kind stranger who none knew the name of, had fallen in battle, the corpse of the Order’s leader cooling beneath her. The apprentice guard, so full of life and fire that drew all into her orbit, died standing, guarding the door to the children held within, the corpses of all who tried to cross the threshold piled around her, unwavering in her duty even in her death. The inventor, heedless of her injuries, had lured a platoon that had broken into the Hold into her workshop, and collapsed it all around them, a defiant smile beaming across her face. As the Villagers took stock of the ones who had given so much for them, a noble stranger who could’ve left them to their fate, an absent-minded inventor who constantly worried the village with her studies sacrificed her prized inventions, that which she held more sacred than even her own life, to fell the enemy, and the young guard who went above and beyond her duty for those she loved, they knew what must be done. Taking the Three Gifts and the bodies of their three heroes, the Villagers committed all to fire, both to honor those who gave them their future, and to keep the Gifts from EVER falling into the hands of the Order and their selfish crusade. The Gifts were destroyed, the heroes bodies lost. All they had to do was pick up the pieces.

Thousands of years have passed, and a new era has dawned. The Gifts have returned, as has the order. The only question is: what happens now?

[richincolor]

New Releases

A whole bunch of book this week. A few sequels, a debut, and stories that will be sure to feed your literary soul. Which of these books will you be purchasing this week?

Renegade Flight (Rebelwing #2) by Andrea Tang Razorbill

Viola Park’s life is over. She’s gone from planning her future as a pilot-in-training to resigning herself to life on the ground. And it’s all because she made one tiny, not-altogether-legal maneuver on the prestigious GAN Academy’s entrance exam. It’s bad enough that she didn’t get into the Academy, but getting caught cheating? It’s probably the worst thing Vi could imagine.

Still, there are perks that come with Vi’s family legacy at the school, and when Vi learns that recent pilot disappearances have left the Academy desperate for recruits, she does what any good Park would do–uses her connections to wiggle her way back in. But instead of matriculating with the regular class of future Peacekeepers, Vi is forced to enter as a probationary student, which means she’ll have to work twice as hard to prove herself worthy of a place in the cockpit of one of the legendary dragon mechs.

Lucky for Vi, the Academy has set up a combat tournament for all students, and the prize is a guaranteed spot in the Peacekeeper corps. Unlucky for Vi, she’ll have to compete against her probie classmates, including Nicholas Lee, a mysterious boy prone to throwing Vi off her game. And as more Peacekeepers go missing, what starts out as a ploy to save her reputation turns into a fight for the future of Peacekeepers everywhere, and if Vi can’t master her mech combat skills, she might not survive the battle.

Set fifteen years after Prudence Wu took flight in Rebelwing, a new generation of scrappy young pilots challenge corruption, competition, and more dangerous mechs than ever, as they redefine what it means to be a revolutionary.

Lost in the Never Woods by Aiden Thomas Swoon Reads

It’s been five years since Wendy and her two brothers went missing in the woods, but when the town’s children start to disappear, the questions surrounding her brothers’ mysterious circumstances are brought back into light. Attempting to flee her past, Wendy almost runs over an unconscious boy lying in the middle of the road, and gets pulled into the mystery haunting the town.

Peter, a boy she thought lived only in her stories, claims that if they don’t do something, the missing children will meet the same fate as her brothers. In order to find them and rescue the missing kids, Wendy must confront what’s waiting for her in the woods.

The Theft of Sunlight (Dauntless Path #2) by Intisar Khanani HarperTeen

Children have been disappearing from across Menaiya for longer than Amraeya ni Ansarim can remember. When her friend’s sister is snatched, Rae knows she can’t look away any longer – even if that means seeking answers from the royal court, where her country upbringing and clubfoot will only invite ridicule.

Yet the court holds its share of surprises. There she discovers an ally in the foreign princess, who recruits her as an attendant. Armed with the princess’s support, Rae seeks answers in the dark city streets, finding unexpected help in a rough-around-the-edges street thief with secrets of his own. But treachery runs deep, and the more Rae uncovers, the more she endangers the kingdom itself.

Bruised by Tanya Boteju Simon Pulse

To Daya Wijesinghe, a bruise is a mixture of comfort and control. Since her parents died in an accident she survived, bruises have become a way to keep her pain on the surface of her skin so she doesn’t need to deal with the ache deep in her heart.

So when chance and circumstances bring her to a roller derby bout, Daya is hooked. Yes, the rules are confusing and the sport seems to require the kind of teamwork and human interaction Daya generally avoids. But the opportunities to bruise are countless, and Daya realizes that if she’s going to keep her emotional pain at bay, she’ll need all the opportunities she can get.

The deeper Daya immerses herself into the world of roller derby, though, the more she realizes it’s not the simple physical pain-fest she was hoping for. Her rough-and-tumble teammates and their fans push her limits in ways she never imagined, bringing Daya to big truths about love, loss, strength, and healing.

Your Heart My Sky by Margarita Engle Atheneum Books for Young Readers

The people of Cuba are living in el periodo especial en tiempos de paz—the special period in times of peace. That’s what the government insists that this era must be called, but the reality behind these words is starvation.

Liana is struggling to find enough to eat. Yet hunger has also made her brave: she finds the courage to skip a summer of so-called volunteer farm labor, even though she risks government retribution. Nearby, a quiet, handsome boy named Amado also refuses to comply, so he wanders alone, trying to discover rare sources of food.

A chance encounter with an enigmatic dog brings Liana and Amado together. United in hope and hunger, they soon discover that their feelings for each other run deep. Love can feed their souls and hearts—but is it enough to withstand el periodo especial?