#than changing his methods and take a different path

[soo-won]

do you think soowon is sociopath? i saw some fans saying he lacks empathy and i don't think he does.

Hey Anon! Thank you for the ask :) I didn't expect to receive that kind of question that was the heart of debates years ago, but I'm more than happy to reply!

Very long answer below the cut. Sorry for being unable to be brief, there's nothing that I love more than talking about Suwon and his emotions!

Short answer is no I don't think Suwon is a sociopath, at all.

I've read people say that many times, especially in response to chapter 196, I don't know if that's what you have in mind. From personal experience, I've never seen anyone call him a sociopath know what that word really means or not being a Suwon-anti and I think most of the time people say this in the pejorative "cold and emotionless" way. The manga has shown countless times the range of Suwon's emotions, and to imply he doesn't feel anything is just, wrong (Kusanagi stated it explicitely too). I guess it's understandable for series going on for years like akayona, but I feel like it's a common mistake to read a chapter as a standalone and not something that adds to what was established before. Like, it's not because the diary and castle arc showed new sides of Suwon (through the eyes of other characters on top of that) and in specific circumstances that it invalidates everything shown to us about him before. It's one piece of the puzzle for sure, but nothing less nothing more. I'm no psychiatrist and I'm not qualified to give anyone any kind of diagnostic, but Suwon feels very much, and he feels guilt, is even paralyzed by it at times and it is sometimes an obstacle to him. Suwon is all about discarding feelings, and for that to be a thing, feelings have to be there to begin with. From what I know about sociopathy, this isn't it. And even if he was, that wouldn't make him any less lovable and deserving of compassion to me.

Now on empathy specifically, it's more arguable, but I don't see lacking empathy as something inherently wrong that makes someone broken or cold. What you feel or not doesn't matter in my opinion, it's what you do to care for others. So like, yeah, if you compare with Yona I guess you could say Yona is more empathic than Suwon, but in no way that alone would make her a better person than him(I don't want to make this about Suwon vs Yona, she was just the first character to come to mind).

Lack of empathy is also not exclusively a sociopath thing. Like, everyone feels it to a different degree and there is a lot factors that can be at play.

Suwon feels and thinks differently, his differences with characters like Meinyan, Yona and Hak being the most obvious examples of that, and it's one of the many things that make me see him as neurodivergent in some way. But in the end, whether he feels empathy or not is not important. Or like, yeah, it can be interesting to explore, but it isn't relevant to define him in the slightest.

That being said, let's talk about what we know. First, what we know for sure, is that he cares! And even if you admit he doesn't have the same level of empathy as others, he tries to help when he can and if it's not in the way of his goals. Whether it's when he was a child comforting Yona and his mother, or reassuring an insecure Lili, or again, trying to comfort a trembling Yona in the way he knows best. It's something that comes naturally to him, something that very much makes him, him. Suwon is someone who wants to help, and who finds joy in making others happy.

He is also intelligent, can understand how people think and feel, and why people act the way they do. He is able to sense very young that Il doesn't like him. He was able to give Yona exactly what she needed when she was mourning her mother. In the present, Suwon understands why Yona or Hak would want to kill him, or how his words would only upset them because he is able to put himself in their shoes. (This, is different than empathy imo. Putting yourself in someone else' shoes is an effort you make to understand others, whether you feel what they feel) It's because he understands how people feels that he was able to come this far and unite the country like he did. He is able to play with how people perceive him to get the upper hand over them too. And he is very aware of the consequences of his colder decisions. Everytime he discards someone, he very much expects their hostility towards him and doesn't ask anything of them again. In my opinion Suwon just doesn't think in term of good vs bad. He can tell between the two in like how it matters to others, but it's not relevant to him, and he rather thinks in term of "is that thing on my way or not". (I think he does struggle to understand the extent of how people feel about him, though. He thinks logically, so it's hard for him to understand things that go against all logic, like Hak and Yona helping him after everything.)

Then I think it's important to mention the part of Suwon that shows a discardment of emotions and empathy, and Yuhon.

Actually, how much of that comes from how Yuhon raised him, the environment he grew up in, or from how he is inherently as a person is interesting sure, but not that relevant either. Whatever the roots of it, he is able to put his feelings on the side and stay composed in dire situations. But again, it doesn't mean he doesn't feel anything. And what the war against Kai shows is that his ability to not be affected by the deaths of his people is the reverse of the determination-turned-desperation to not lose against Kai. "Even death is acceptable"(his own included) he says to himself. The fact this is a thing he had to tell himself to begin with says a lot in my opinion. He was struggling, and had to remind himself repeatedly to not look back, to think about nothing but the war. Suwon has limits, even if he is more composed and determined than most, and when he reaches these limits he needs to cling onto his father's words, because otherwise he would falter and stop being able to think clearly.

Thanksfully this desperation turned back into his usual determination(still kinda fueled by the urgency of his situation) after the events of this battle. But like, Suwon is not at all a character that is a complete facade when he acts as a King and whose cold decisions go completely against his heart all the time. He really is the King not hesitating to take harsh decisions and make sacrifices to achieve his goals. He really is the King not unfazed in the slightest about losing his own castle and capital, and people dying in war for his cause. That's also what makes him, him, and something more than helpful in war where you have to deal with losses and unpredictable events all the time.

Going back to chapter 196, when Yonhi thinks to herself "How can he be so detached?" or when Yuhon's faction is impressed by how unfazed he was about investigating his own father's corpse, in no way it is that Suwon doesn't feel anything about his father or Yona. He so does. He is shown burning with anger, and he is shown not looking the least enthousiastic about killing Il. The situations and ways in which he expresses these emotions are simply not what you would usually expect from a child, but why should there be any rule about how someone is supposed to react and feel? There's nothing scary about that. When you stop to think about 2 seconds, is it that fearsome for someone to cope by taking the lead and prioritizing dealing with the problems at hand first, and being unable to process things emotionally? Like, isn't that pretty common? I can relate a lot to that personally. I guess what is surprising in this case is how Suwon is able to do it so young and to this extent, but it's nothing more than that. When Suwon asks Yonhi if she wants Il to die, and she gets scared of that, Suwon is genuinely asking too. Is that this far-fetched for him to assume Yonhi would want that when everyone else around him does? When revenge seems to be the very reason Il, supposed to be peace-loving, killed his father?

People might say that Suwon lacks empathy and maybe they wouldn't be wrong, but he constantly tries to understand what people want and answer to their expectations anyway. And I think that's what matters the most, even if he fails at it sometimes. He couldn't understand how Yonhi felt about Il in chapter 196, but he still tried hard to be what he thought she wanted from him: a replacement of Yuhon (Again, logical conclusion when that's what everyone else around him encourage). He still did all he could to comfort her, and he gave her strength.

He became the ideal King most of the generals and Yuhon faction wanted, and a lot of the issues in his relationship with Yona and Hak come from the fact he behaved in front of them as the Suwon they (used to think they) wanted. He cared for them genuinely, but he couldn't show the rest of him because it would go against the idealized image they had of him. Just like he can't show all of himself in front of his supporters either, because what they want is for him is a perfect, never faltering King, following Yuhon's footsteps. When it became impossible to be these two ideals at the same time, he discarded one. Suwon cares and loves, and this has nothing to do with empathy. He is both the caring friend and the pragmatic king and can't discard either.

Suwon might have less empathy than others, yet he is the one who acted to better the lives of his country's citizens, in contrast to Il, that sure, might be more empathic (except when it comes to Suwon visibly) yet barely acted on it.

I'm gonna stop here but I could go on forever. I hope it's not too much all over the place. Sorry I can't help it.

TDLR : no I don't think he is a sociopath, mainly because he feels guilt and regards what people think a lot, and all he does is never for his own personal benefit. But empathy or not, he cares and does his best. There is so much to explore about him, and basing the morality of a character on empathy is just not it. I think the fact he has such a different way of thinking compared to the rest of the main cast is what makes him so fresh and interesting and I wouldn't want him any other way. He doesn't give a fuck and idk it's funny and so cathartic sometimes. We should embrace that.

[anantaru]

DIFFERENT KIND OF FINE

— ꒰ synopsis ꒱ — being kaveh‘s younger sibling can be quite jarring yet you‘re eternally grateful for his hot room mate keeping you company while you wait for him.

— ꒰ word count ꒱ — 4.3k

— ꒰ warnings ꒱ — [ns]fw, fem! reader, reader is in their 20s + kaveh‘s step sibling, kaveh is both older than you and alhaitham, perv alhaitham ??, he's calling you a 'good girl', he's a tease

by now, how many times in your life did you have to run after your careless, irresponsible brother?

had to make sure he isn't doing anything reckless again, despite him being an akademiya graduate. Or that one time when he had visited your home only to forget half of his belongings, requiring you to carry them all over to his place.

well, not to his place to be exact.

after yet another foolish decision in kaveh's life, your step brother even got himself caught up in heavy debt, being in need of a place to stay.

however at first, he had asked you, but ever since you had gotten adopted you had already spent the majority of your life with him.

to say you were tired was an understatement.

as a matter of fact kaveh did find a place to stay in the end, one you were quite surprised to hear of, bewildered even, you just couldn't wrap your head around how on earth that was supposed to work out in the long run.

you had heard of his roommate, the akademiya's scribe, or how most people were referring to him, as alhaitham, from kaveh himself, aside of the very detailed stories about how ill mannered and ignorant he could become, especially to your brother in question.

in all honesty, it made you laugh, you mean to tell him that yes, sometimes messing with him, taking a lot out of him could be fun in all aspects but maybe it was due to the fact that you were practicing those methods from your childhood days on.

as life went on, you found yourself at his new settling every once in a while, more often when the scribe himself wasn't there, almost as if kaveh was trying his utmost best to never have you both meet each other.

once you had asked him as to why, feeling insulted that he even thought you wouldn't realize when he was making it painfully conspicuous, more whenever your brother would panic that *now* he was usually coming home from his work, you had to leave right now.

all he had to say about it was that he was certain you wouldn't like him anyways, would actually loath him too and wasn't it a part of nature to protect your younger sibling from each major plague in life?

to that, you couldn't respond with anything meaningful, suffocating the conversation right then and there because truthfully, though it may seem strange, you didn't think your brother would lie to you in that precise set of circumstances because maybe he was right, perhaps you really would hold a hostile environment towards the scribe.

even now, as you were strolling through an appealing, warm evening in sumeru city, you not once had met alhaitham, at this being slightly hopeful that you wouldn't cross paths with him today either.

because you see, it was that time of the month again, the: your brother has, again, forgotten something at home after visiting you, putting on the responsibility on your shoulders to fetch and transport it back to his place.

ordinarily you concluded that at this time of the day kaveh surely must've gotten home by now, you knew his schedule by heart and were quite confident to meet him there right away, knocking on the door as you at last, found your way to the huge place he resided in.

knock, knocking once more, silence ... knock again?

after knocking a total of three times, with no one opening the door for you, your expression slightly changed from normal, to confused, to that of being utterly annoyed.

it's not like you didn't have anything better to do other than being your brothers little assistant or however you wanted to frame it.

since you had been to his place numerous amounts of times before, in addition that you determined that he surely must've fallen asleep again, you decided to check the door handle to see if it was open all along, which it then, was.

(you put an important mental note in the deepest ends of your brain to scold him afterwards for carelessly leaving the door to his home open like this.)

you carefully cradled your fingers around the door handle to pull it down, pushing the door open to let yourself in.

okay, well, maybe it wasn't a smart idea to just straight up enter a home from someone you didn't know, but kaveh was living there for a good amount of time already so you didn't think too much of it.

the second you had entered you swiftly closed the door behind you, the faint breeze from outside scampering around your body as you tightly held onto the two books he forgot at your place, walking towards the living room.

"kaveh?" you spoke, rolling your eyes and deciding to get a bit louder, already being done with this whole, bloody situation, "kaveh!"

once reaching the living room you with, might i add, a bit too much applied strength, violently thumped the books onto the wooden coffee table and huffed out, distressfully folding your arms in front of your body.

"what has that poor table done to you?" you helplessly shrieked the moment you had perceived an unfamiliar, deep voice, the little hairs on the back of your neck standing straight while you were slowly turning around in horror.

"who are you?!" you could say you spoke before actually bringing the whole situation to your mind to thoroughly think about it, leaving the unacquainted man in front of you with a confused look on his face.

"I think i could ask you the same." he was quick to gather a response, flawlessly bringing himself a step closer towards your frame but still leaving enough space between your bodies.

"because you see, this is my house." instead of kindly introducing himself to you, like any other person would, he swiftly walked past your body to plop himself onto the massive couch.

but never keeping his gaze off you, carefully sliding his eyes from your lips, to your exposed collarbones and glissading them over your body until reaching your legs.

it seemed as if he was waiting for a response from you, after all you had now rapidly deducted that this had to be none other than the scribe, alhaitham, himself.

you turned around to slightly lower your gaze to where he was sitting at, nonchalantly sipping on his cup before placing it on the coffee table right next to kaveh's books.

"so .. you must be?" warily, you allocated a question into the room, anxiously swaying in your footing from left to right.

"the owner of this house."

seriously?

the least he could do now was approach you back in kindness instead of making it a dozen amount more difficult for you, as well as embarrassing.

"that's not what i meant." how rude, okay, to give him the benefit of the doubt you were the one who broke into his house but clearly he must've known who you were.

or maybe he actually didn't when you take into account that all kaveh and alhaitham would do was bicker with each other day on day, play pranks or make it as difficult as possible for one another without actually exchanging a normal sounding sentence, once.

"what did you mean then?" casually, he settled back into the couch to withhold the long overdo smirk on his lips, leaning one hand over the frame, his eyes being currently fascinated by your cute lips, pretty eyes, attractive thighs and in confusion, scrunched up face.

or what about the skirt you were wearing, it neatly fit you and magnified your alluring curves, as if it was tailored just for your body to dress in.

what if you were to bend down right now, would the garment expose your cute panties underneath or was it just right, situated under your plump ass? keeping everything hidden from his hungry eyes.

your expression was being somewhat amusing, the hilarity of it all barely being able to be hidden.

"you know what? I'm leaving." attempting to stressfully remove the books off the wooden table, he quickly rose up to confidently sit upright, "wait."

"i assume you're kaveh's sibling?" the worst thing of it all was the tone in his voice, as if he wasn't actually asking you, just proving his own thesis. "yes."

you slowly pulled your shoulders back to appear more poised in your mannerism, standing upright when he suddenly shifted in his seat, scooting as to try to make some space for you.

"i'm alhaitham, though i don't think you've heard many good things about me." at the tip of his sentence, he gently tapped the now empty area next to him with his hand, beckoning you to take a seat.

what harm was there in doing that, right? it appeared as if kaveh wasn't home yet so you could spare some time to wait for him, with alhaitham, of all people.

his voice reverberated a deep, gentle timbre, as well as a controlling chime trussed around it.

you've quietly settled on the couch and exchanged names with him, you were wholly surprised to find such a man, that was for one, in all aspects different from what your brother had originally told you about and second, although he shared a couple intimidating peculiarities— which might be a natural revealing trait from his work, alhaitham was a clever, pleasant person to have a conversation with.

"kaveh is getting held back at the akademiya." he was idly finishing his drink, inconspicuously scurrying a couple inches closer to you.

"you can wait here if you want." you smile at his proposal, situating yourself within reach to better listen to him, "thank you so much, i will."

alhaitham hummed at your sense of utterance, his choice of words was well thought after, his body language too, turning it altogether more clear.

"who knew kaveh's sibling would be so well mannered." he added, understandably focusing on your lips or how they held a glint of sparkly lipgloss on top, "it's so different from him."

how would you taste like? the lipgloss he means.

would it be sticky on his lips? if he kisses you, or taste artificial, maybe a small amount of strawberries, the gloss faded in a translucent tone after all so all he could do was guess.

you're finding yourself awkwardly laughing at his words, "he's not always like that." nodding along, you decided to not dwell on it any longer, it was polite to bring forth your well mannered approach, after all he did open his doors for you ..

.. or you actually did, but he let you stay.

"i don't think kaveh is as polite as you?" he was lingering a bit closer now and for some reason you found the warmth his body set free pacifying.

you're able to fully glance over his facial features, focusing on the small dimples dwindling around the corners of his lips, his multicolored irises or the enticing cologne hanging in midst the air.

your nostrils were slightly flaring, involuntarily memorizing his scent, archons, you couldn't stop yourself from traveling into your thoughts, fighting every square in your body to halter yourself from drifting off into your daydreams.

"uh-" at first, you had no clue he was staring at you the whole, damn time, his hair strands were effortlessly falling around his porcelain skin, intently watching you through his thick lashes, "it depends on the person, i think."

"on the person you say." he trails off before smiling at you, a little coy and intriguing, the right corner of his lips being tucked back into a smirk.

you didn't even realize how close you two have been sitting next to each other by now, only being brought back to reality when you accidentally nudged your knee against his own, pulling in a sharp breath through your nose.

his scent was now heavily falling down on you, much more violent than before. A tease actually, that's what he was and you fell into it head first, your embarrassment cushioning your sweet cheeks with immense warmth as you disconcertingly pushed your thighs together.

so sweet, you never questioned yourself, and what about your brother? would he want you to fuck his roommate, or maybe, try and kiss him right now? and you know you shouldn't, obviously.

you could just fantasize about it after getting your ass up to leave this place, or this suffocating heat he effortlessly inflicted on you with nothing more than his pretty eyes delving daggers into your sweet skin.

but you wanted to taste it, the actual thing, his plump lips, you weren't this captivated by a person in a long time and it somehow scared you away, almost that is, because right now you were still sitting next to him, your knees playfully rubbing and nudging together.

his hand suddenly moves from his side to yours, gently being placed on top of your swaying thigh, massaging the soft skin when he noticed your slight shaking.

you returned his call, attempting to close the distance when he suddenly spoke again, "what would your brother say to this?" you only realize his hand wandering down more close when he rubbed painfully slow circles into the insides of your warm thigh, "would he be surprised, mad or furious?"

you're whining, he didn't even touch you on your burning little sensation and you were already helplessly heaving out, soft cries prickling from your throat to escape your lips.

"he doesn't have to know— please." this whole situation had your body tear each square of control off you and you were wondering what you were begging for in the first place.

perhaps to alhaitham— to keep his mouth shut in front of your brother, or maybe, you were additionally begging him to finally touch your clothed pussy with the flimsy material of your panties being drenched with nothing but your slick.

"Mm, please?" he's acting innocent, gently tipping his head to the side as his hand delved deeper, carefully pushing past your skirt, cupping your wet heat at once. "ah— there we go."

a single finger worked against you as you silently cried out, resting your forehead against his own while spreading your legs a little farther away.

it's only his middle finger but it still felt big, his build was remarkable and you could perceive a couple veins accentuating the back of his muscular arm rubbing circles on your clothed clit.

"you're wet there." he notes almost immediately, "what were you thinking about this whole time?" oh how sweet you were, the ticklish sensation of his knuckles ghosting on your skin had you giddy on the inside, your toes curling in your shoes. "n-nothing."

you deny whatever he thought about yet alhaitham knew better than this, way better, the amount of essence that coated his fingertips was too much evidence for you to blatantly repudiate his questions.

"pull up your shirt." he's fast, whispering against your neck when he instantaneously planted wet, open mouthed kisses on the thin skin, roughly slithering his tongue over it.

you do as he commands, quickly discarding your shirt but not completely, only letting the garment clutch over your breasts that were covered by your bra.

"good girl." you're trembling at the nickname, in your seat greedily burying your hands into his soft hair to pull him closer to your neck, letting him plant gentle bites and nips on you while simultaneously skimming his finger over your shielded folds.

"can you—" before you could finish, you stopped yourself from speaking, your attention being redirected by your sensitive little clit being pinched on.

you're throwing your head back at the slightly painful, yet fiery touch on you, "ah, please, more!" the anticipation in you to finally have his fingers deep inside your pussy, stirred up the adrenaline in your blood, yanking one of your legs over his own as alhaitham pulled you closer.

"more?" you clearly caught his interest, he lightly taps your clit with his middle finger before adding another one, your thighs instantly jolting up at the applied friction of another digit. "like this?"

"yeah— like this." you weakly responded, your voice a tone higher, alhaitham huffed out his warm breath on your damp neck that was wholly and sloppily glazed with his saliva when you smiled airily at him, resting your head against his comforting shoulder.

you're suddenly crying out, biting back a delicate whine when he gingerly hooked his fingers into the garment to at last, meet your exposed cunt, licking his lips at the sight.

if only your face wasn't so mesmerizing to look at while he's scissoring your tiny hole, alhaitham wanted to map it all out, your little pussy, every single inch, embed it into his perverted mind and jerk himself off at the thought of it afterwards.

he's greedily pulling your panties down, letting the flimsy material loosely dangle around your ankle as he positioned your leg back up on his own, watching your fluttering hole clench down on his curled up fingers.

if it wasn't for his other hand holding you open you were sure you would've suffocated the blood in his other arm by the way you wanted to push your thighs together around him, messily riding his digits with your bare cunt.

"i love how you feel down there." he shamelessly threw into the room, as if he didn't even care how shameful this situation was in its entirety, "you feel so good clamping down on me like that."

he smiles when he caught you yank your hips up a bit, meeting his pace midway, the raw squelching sounds of his fingers selfishly digging into your squishy walls rang through the big living room, your eyes squiring a glassy expression by the force alhaitham was going for.

"what if your brother comes in now?" at this, you reasonably gasped, desiring to actually smack that stupid grin off his face, "d-don't say that!" you mutter inaudibly as you're tucking him closer, your breasts cramming onto his chest when he looked at you, "really now?"

"imagine poor kaveh sitting on this couch afterwards." alhaitham heaved, abruptly pecking your lips when you deducted that this was the first time he had kissed you, at all, "the same couch I'm finger fucking his sibling on, right now."

you're moaning out screaming when he added a third and final finger, splitting your tiny hole with his thick digits and curling up, nudging the hammering spots deep within in your creamy walls.

his inappropriate choice of words had your mind turn hazy, liquifying all the rational thoughts in your body and turning them to nothing at all, dissolving them and replacing them with filthy, perverted things.

you could name it a carnal desire when you decided to hungrily kiss him, capture his plump lips with teeth colliding against each other.

it wasn't as tasteful as you thought it would be at first, the built up tension made it quite difficult to focus on two tasks at the same time, in addition to how hard alhaitham was fucking your tingling cunt.

yet alhaitham didn't mind, he wholly welcomed you, circling his wet muscle over your own as he pushed you deeper into the couch, adoring how your thighs began to vibrate from the sense of overstimulation he was capable to inflict on you throughout seconds.

how was it possible for him to be so good at this, so fucking skilled at pleasuring you senseless?

really, he only had met you today and you couldn't even remember another time when you were this needy, this wet and filthy minded because of another person.

"I think I'm close." you mewl out, your eyes being low lidded and beginning to strain from merely holding them open. Alhaitham snickered at your words, desperately suckling on your lips as he further amplified the tempo on your pussy. "close you say?"

he worked like magic, truly, it was addicting to be with him, the pleasure in you was heavily boiling, more so when your sensitive nipples began to roughly rub over the edge of your bra, your areolae being half exposed for his hungry, desiring eyes.

he was quick to pull himself away from your swollen lips, instead drawing himself to one of your nipples to encircle it in his warm mouth, greedily suckling in his breath to nibble on your tit while carrying on with his relentless pace on your cunt.

your lips twitch when you clasped them together, his finger pads grazing through the squishy flesh when your body tensed up, your hands having no other choice than to cradle around his neck, finally letting your orgasm wash over you.

"come on." his voice was raspy, "we're running out of time, you can do it, pretty." at his words you were helplessly scrunching your eyes shut, to half of his sentence you didn't even listen to, it was clear that the brutality of his touch alone would leave you sore, painfully sore but also yearning for him to do it once again.

you're limply grinding your hips into his hand a couple more times when you vehemently released into him, his palm being utterly drenched in your filthy slick while his thumb was carrying on to roll over your overstimulated clit.

you're moaning out his name, it felt silly to do it, to say it like that as if you were actually familiar with each other, contradicting the reality which was that you had just met him, not even hours ago.

"would you look at yourself." he purrs, alhaitham was lazily digging his fingers into your swollen cunt, captivated by your exhausted body listlessly leaning back, your chest heaving up and down and your thighs tightly clamping around his arm.

it was far too humiliating to look at him, to even speak back or say something.

because why, the moment you'd be brought back to reality, after a good fucking orgasm, all the problems would scrub over you in an instant, not even giving you additional time to bath in your deserved afterglow.

you noisily peaked between your legs with your loose cunt being still filled by his thick digits, noticing a dampened splotch underneath.

"you ruined my couch." he's noting before messily pulling out of you, his fingers being drenched in your sticky mess and quietly connecting to your cunt with a string of your essence holding you together.

"i— i didn't do it on purpose." you panic, not catching on that he was actually being sarcastic with you.

alhaitham for once, broke off the attention from your body, locating it to his soaked fingers before slowly opening his mouth, placing them on top of his tongue and closing his lips around it.

your eyes grew wide, the downright sinful look on his face had you hypnotized, another rush of excitement pistoling into you.

you find yourself staring without shame, drooling over the fact that alhaitham began to groan around his fingers, slurping them clean while searching for your gaze to hold them close to his own.

you were sure you were never going to get rid of this picture in your memories, you'll have it installed in your deepest depths forever.

when he was done, he carefully slid them off his lips, attempting to say something if it wasn't for a sudden noisy sound echoing through the heavy, of intimacy smelling, room.

you turned around in horror as you watched the door handle of the front door get pulled down, immediately alhaitham grabbed onto your shirt to drag it down your breasts, hiding your bare skin as he searched for a pillow to cover the obvious, painful erection in his pants.

"hey idiot, i'm home." the voice was sadly, very familiar, kaveh was now home.

kaveh? your brother! the one you were actually seeking out in the first place.

in a strive to look for your panties you lowered your gaze, yet being unable to spot them all over the floor when your brother walked into the living room at last.

"why is it so hot in here? oh—" his words instantly died in his throat the moment he had seen you sit next to his roommate, his eyes dramatically twitching, "what are you doing here?"

"what have you done?!" kaveh was quick to point whatever blame he could find on alhaitham, thankfully being oblivious to the fact that he rearranged your guts just a few moments ago.

"he did nothing, i promise!" you awkwardly laughed at the silence while clumsily getting up, innocently pushing your skirt down, "i was here to bring you your books and bumped into al— alhaitham!"

"no need to worry kaveh, i was only trying to make conversation." alhaitham sheepishly explained with an overly pleased smile on his face, yet not getting up, the big pillow resting on top of his pulsing crotch.

"whatever." kaveh rolled his eyes, being slightly irritated by the way you were so out of breath, deducting that alhaitham must've been a pain in the ass, overwhelming his poor, little sibling. "come on, lets get to my room."

as he went on to grab the books on the coffee table, you awkwardly ventured your gaze to alhaitham, just one last time, catching him stare at you before he playfully winked, darting his eyes away.

"lets go." kaveh was angry, cursing himself that he should've come home sooner, lightly pulling your arm so you'd follow him.

the moment alhaitham had heard the door of kaveh's bedroom close, he quickly disposed of the pillow on his lap, exposing your damp panties sticking to his pants.

you don't mind, do you?

you probably have a quite remarkable collection of underwear he has to see one day, until then, he'll give it his all to make good use of your panties ..

.. maybe even now, to fuck his stiff cock into the cloth while you're in your brother's room, without underwear, sore with your pussy still memorizing his slender, calloused fingers rubbing on your flesh.

yes, he might as well do it now.

©2023 anantaru do not share, copy, translate any of my work

[prettieinpink]

5K SPECIAL | CREATING YOUR OWN GARDEN𝜗𝜚

This is a guide to make your mind like your own garden flourishing with plants, flowers and butterflies. Having a good mental mindset, and being in the right state of mind is essential to being the best version of yourself.

This guide is divided into four sections: mindset, self-care, mental wellness and emotional intelligence. I hope you can take away something useful and take care of yourself! 💖 

MINDSET

Your mindset can easily determine how you go through life. It influences how you feel, act, behave and your thoughts. When you have a poor mindset, it is going to be difficult to go through life, even if your life is easy. 

However, once we grow and improve our minds, it is easier for us to navigate life, improve our well-being and increase our chances of success. 

Before we get into mindset shifts, I want to explain how exactly you can implement them in your life. I feel like there’s so much talk about mindset, but no one exactly explains on how to implement them. 

IMPLEMENTING 

The first thing to implementing mindset shifts is making a conscious effort to be aware of your thoughts. If you want, practice mindful activities to improve your self-awareness of your thoughts. 

You have to be able to catch a thought in its passing and whoosh it away from your mind. If you don’t whoosh it away, those simple thoughts build each time which can soon turn into the way you think.

Secondly, after increasing your awareness, identify what exactly about your thoughts or mindset you’d like to shift, and what you would like to shift to.

Thirdly, is to completely immerse yourself in that mindset shift. The mind learns through repetition, meaning that repeating it enough will make your mind learn it. 

Set your mindset shift as your weekly intention, say affirmations, and prayer, read books on it, put a quote on your phone as your wallpaper, just make it so that mindset shift is constantly on your mind. 

Lastly, do small actionable things that reinforce that mindset shift. I recommend you do at least one habit every day for this. 

This is not the only method to implement mindset shifts, but for me, it’s the one that is highly effective. I recommend doing some research on your own, and making adjustments when needed depending on how you think. 

MINDSET SHIFTS

This whole part we’ll talk about the mindset shifts I think everyone should at least try to implement in their lives if they want to improve themselves. These mindset shifts are my absolute favourites and they improved the quality of my life. 

After each one, I’ll state a small habit you can incorporate that contributes to that shift. 

Live your life with your highest self in mind. 

This is more intentional living than an actual mindset shift, but still as important. Whatever you do throughout the day, consider if it aligns with your highest self. If not? Release it. Your highest self knows what's best for you, trust them. 

At the end of the day, reflect on your daily habits, which include all habits you did today whether they were ideal or not. What habits aligned with your highest self and which didn’t? The ones that didn’t, why? How can you change or remove this habit to get closer to your highest self?

Rejection is just redirection.

As someone who has gotten rejected from the things that they wanted and felt so lost in the pursuit of fulfilment, this mindset shift saved me. You have to stop chasing the things that aren’t meant for you if life has proved it isn’t.

While I’m not saying give up after the first try, but try to step back and assess the situation. If you are qualified and ready for this thing, then why is it still not yours? Because it isn’t meant for you. God is trying to nudge you into a different path, recognise his signs. 

To handle rejection better, look for the lesson(s) you’ve learnt, and the skills you grew and see if there is another area of life that you can apply them to. 

Keep yourself on a pedestal.

I am worthy so much to me. It sounds like a weird sentence, but you should start treating yourself like a treasure and avoid giving out that same treatment to most people because you have your soul, which homes itself in your body. Every day, you are living through this soul and body. 

So, why would you take care of someone else’s soul and body? You are never going to be the soul that lives in their body, or the body which homes their soul. Don’t neglect yourself in the priority of someone else. 

Practice setting boundaries with others and recognising when someone wants more than what you’re willing. 

You choose the life that you want.

You have choices and options every day to do things that will eventually have an outcome. Whether this outcome supports the vision of your dream life or not, all depends on how you choose to live your life now.  

I don’t have a habit with this one but keep in mind that absolutely nothing is controlling you, and your choices are of free will. Circumstances can change, but that is why we have to adapt and be flexible.

Fear is a step to success

If you’re not scared, you’re not doing it right. Fear can hold us back, but that is why we have to twist fear into a source of motivation instead. If we were always in our comfort zone, stepping back when we feel a sliver of fear, we allow fear to dictate our life and its course. 

You can’t be successful unless you do the uncomfortable. For this one, do something each day that scares you or makes you uncomfortable. It doesn’t have to be anything extreme, but simple things like exercising longer than usual or talking to someone who you wouldn’t imagine yourself with. Those little risks are so important. 

Embarrassment is not a real emotion 

This one is a bit controversial, but I do not believe in the concept of embarrassment. Yes, things can sometimes be awkward, but it is fully in your control if you want to feel ashamed or not. Being embarrassed only holds you back, and doesn’t allow you to live life to its fullest. 

I would recommend doing a small risk every day as well, but of things that would usually feel awkward. 

Progress over perfection/completion

Perfectionism which is allowed to be nurtured over time can create an avoidance mindset towards doing harder things in life. While we should strive for excellence in everything we do, we shouldn’t allow it to consume us. 

(the avoidance mindset is when we put off/avoid tasks that we believe to be out of our abilities, and so that completion of the task is poor quality/not done well.) 

This one is less common, but I know a few people who would not do a task if they knew it would not be fully completed in their desired time frame. However, each minute of work contributes to the results or completion of something. 

Every day, do one thing that will add up to the completion of your long-term goals. 

To welcome tomorrow, you have to let go of yesterday. 

Living in the past makes us neglect our present self. I’m not saying forget everything that’s happened, but never allow the past to consume your mind. Acknowledge that you’ve been hurt, you’re longing or you were happier. Then, release it. 

Journaling is the perfect way to stay in touch with the present. You can type it, write it, vlog, draw, or compose to journal. 

Everyone has their beauty.

This one helped me a lot with comparison. I saw beauty, not as a measure or a value of someone, but rather something that everyone has uniquely and it cannot be valued. I have my sense of beauty, and you have your beauty as well. We are two different people with unique features, traits and qualities, so our ‘beauty’ can’t be measured against each other. 

Define your beauty. You could be smart, feminine, book beauty or dark, flowers, creative beauty. You add your details to your beauty and never try to define someone else's. 

To conclude this section, your mindset is very powerful. To achieve your goals, work on your mindset. Also, don’t try to work on more than one mindset shift at a time. Implement one fully then work on the next one. It could be overwhelming if you’re doing more than one. 

SELF-CARE

The next chapter of this guide is about self-care. Self-care is important for maintaining balance in our lives and generally keeping ourselves happy. However, most people don’t understand the concept of self-care, so they just end up doing a bunch of random things and wondering why they don’t feel better.

Yes, you can coddle or pamper yourself when you want, but it is not self-care. While activities from these three things do overlap, do not confuse the terms with each other. 

Self-care is simply what it says. Taking care of yourself. Taking care of yourself looks different for everyone. My idea of self-care will be different to yours.

REDEFINING SELF-CARE.

When you imagine what self-care looks like, it’s typically someone else’s definition of self-care which has been reinforced in your mind. You have to redefine your idea of self-care to match your goals, energy levels and circumstances. 

Before you do, self-care is not always about taking a break. It seems that way, however, self-care can also be having the discipline to do the things that you don’t want to, but are good for you. 

Here are some questions to help you redefine your self-care:

What does self-care mean to you? Does that meaning align with your current values and needs? 

Do you have any negative associations or misconceptions of self-care? Why?

How do I feel in all areas of my life? (physically, mentally, spiritually, professionally). What areas need more attention and how can I improve that area(s)?

What activities bring me happiness, fulfilment and a sense of renewal? 

What tasks do I have to do, which are good for me but I hesitate in completing that task?

How would I like to feel after complementing my self-care rituals? 

Envision your life if it had complete balance and self-care incorporated. What habits would you be doing to support that vision? 

My idea of self-care is completing all of my non-negotiables, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, taking somewhat productive breaks and talking to others daily. 

THE SEVEN PILLARS OF SELF-CARE 

Self-care has seven pillars, which you all need to take care of to have a balanced life. However, balanced self-care does not mean equal attention to each pillar. It means that each one is up to the same standard of self-care you’ve put for yourself. So, you need to allocate your attention appropriately. 

MAJOR PILLARS 

Physical - The well-being of your body. 

Mental - The state of your mental health, mind and emotions. 

Spiritual - The strengthening of your relationship with God while nourishing your holy spirit. 

Personal - Doing things that bring you enjoyment and fulfilment + embracing your identity.

MINOR PILLARS

Social - Connecting with friends, family or even strangers.

Professional - Your work/school life. 

Environment - Keeping your space clean and extracting anything that holds you back. 

Major and minor do not add or take away the value each category has, it just means that major pillars may need more attention compared to the minor ones which may need less attention. Of course, you may need to focus more on a minor pillar, as self-care is individual to you. 

I would’ve added a list of things that you could do for each category, but I want you to think about what you need for each instead of relying on strangers with different lives for self-care. 

Maybe you need to focus on exercising and doing your hobbies more. Or you need to create a better work/life balance for yourself. It all depends on your values, needs and circumstances. 

MENTAL WELLNESS

Mental wellness is the state of our cognitive, emotional and psychological functioning. When we are mentally well, we can cope better with challenges, develop a habit of having positive thoughts, and greater happiness and improve most areas of our lives overall.

There are a lot of things that contribute to our mental wellness, and I most likely won’t have everything here. Just a little disclaimer as well, it is completely normal to have a fluctuating mental state especially when we are going through unfavourable change. 

DIGITAL MINDFULNESS

Social media is a huge part of our lives but is also the main factor of mental destruction. I’m not going to say delete all of your social media, but I want to introduce to you a few ways to mindfully consume and rules with managing screen time. 

MINDFUL CONSUMPTION

To consume content mindfully, go onto apps intentionally and know what your purpose is when using that app. For example, if you want to find new habits that you can do, you could search on Tumblr or if you want a quick break from something stressful you can watch an episode of something on Netflix. 

It doesn’t matter what the purpose exactly is, but the action of being intentional. 

After you consume what you want, download images, and screenshots, and take notes or any documentation of what you found/learnt. This is more so the information is remembered/used. 

Manage your notifications. You do not need notifications from every app. Except for messages and phones, I do not put notifications on my device. I believe that if something is important enough, I’ll remember to check my phone later without the help of a notification. 

Only consume quality content. It is so easy to consume content that has obviously been reposted or is blatantly spreading misinformation. Only consume from people who you trust and you’ve followed/subscribed to. While yes, you can explore but be very mindful when doing so.

You should be decluttering, organising and deleting on your devices routinely.  This reduces the amount of distractions on your phone and makes it more intentional. Only keep the things that align with your needs, values and goals. 

DIGITAL BOUNDARIES

Have rooms or zones in the house in which you’re not allowed to use any devices or the devices you choose. For example, the bed, bathroom, office, when you’re eating at the dining table, etc. 

An alternative is having a period of a day when device usage is not allowed. It could be right after you wake up, right before you go to sleep or just in the middle of the day. Either, I recommend you have a time or place in which device usage is not allowed.

While I encourage everyone to keep up with socialising with their loved ones and friends, I don’t support dropping everything just to talk to someone. E.g If somebody wants to text while you’re in the middle of a study sesh, just say you’ll talk later. 

MANAGING STRESS

Stress is an unwelcome yet common feeling we all have. No matter what’s on your plate, we tend to stress a lot, especially in a society that is going so fast and makes us feel like we’re falling behind. 

To manage stress, you need to be self-aware of when you feel stressed. A lot of people actually can’t recognise when they feel stressed, and I am one of those people. Instead, I rely on mental or physical signs that tell me I’m feeling stressed out. 

SIGNS OF STRESS

Unusual lack of motivation or discipline

Feeling tired constantly even if haven’t done anything exhausting

Inconvenience impacts you more

Overthinking about small things

Trouble with sleeping

Low appetite

Focusing is harder

Crying or feeling tearful over small things

This is not the complete list of symptoms, but these are the things I feel/do when I feel stressed. Stress will look different for everyone, so you need to be able to create your own list of signs when you feel stressed. 

CREATING A STRESS MANAGEMENT PLAN

Creating a plan helps you to be prepared to effectively address and cope with stress. It allows you to be more productive and improves mental health when you use this plan when needed. 

Here are a few steps to creating your own!

Identify stress triggers. What do you dread the most? What makes you feel drained? What do you overthink about? Answer these questions to figure out what triggers your stress.

Assess your coping strategies. Notice if you have any ways of coping that are self-destructive, as this only contributes to your stress. 

Choose 1-3 activities that are fun to you and are not self-destructive. These activities do not have to be productive or beneficial, but they have to make you feel relaxed and generally feel better

Choose one relaxation technique and one self-care activity. These are up to you, as we tend to neglect self-care relaxation when we’re stressed. 

Optional, but have one person who you can talk to when you’re stressed. When we are stressed, we tend to look at the smaller picture but talking to someone else helps us gain a greater perspective on the matter. 

PRETTIEINPINK’S EXAMPLE PLAN

(If doing something that is my stress trigger, slot a time in the day to do my plan.)

Journal about why I’m stressed 

Make a cup of strawberry and mango tea

Read a nice story while drinking tea

Guided stress meditation

Eat some fruits 

Another thing when creating you plan to not restrict yourself using time. Allow yourself to take as much time as needed to alleviate yourself of stress. 

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE 

Being emotionally intelligent is a skill. It is the ability to understand, process and communicate emotions effectively. 

There are times when we do sometimes let our emotions take over and they dictate our actions, thoughts and words. This is why we need to build this skill, to get that control over our emotions back. 

Thinking before you speak is an oldie but goodie. What we say can drastically influence the current situation for better or for worse. If you think that what you might say is rude, offensive or crude, don’t say it at all. 

Also, stay quiet! I am all for standing up for yourself when being disrespected, but you need to recognise when someone is trying to rile you up... They WANT a reaction out of you. Most likely to use against you. Silently exit the situation instead. 

If you are someone who gets a lot of energy from big emotions like anger, dejection, sadness, and jealousy, try to channel that energy into something that requires you to have a lot of energy and is beneficial to you. Keeping that energy in until you blow up is a no-no.

Not everyone is trying to hold you back with ill intent. People’s previous experiences can influence the advice they give to you because they have your best interest at heart. They know that their method worked, which is why they’re advising it. These types of people don’t understand that there is more than one way, but they still love you.

Avoid prolonging emotions. When you’re sad, don’t listen to depressing music. When you’re angry, don’t consume ragefuel. It’s very easy in this age of consuming to amplify therefore prolonging emotions, but it holds us back. Process it, and move on.

Stop acting on a whim. Go where your heart takes you, but reflect on it and create a plan. When you do, you end up in unfavourable circumstances. The most common one is working so hard to get to a certain point, only to realise that you don’t even like it. This is why reflection is important. 

Be kind even when you’re not receiving it. Kindness is only kind when we do it out of pure love instead of personal gain. Stop expecting people to be kind to you after you’ve been kind to them. Kindness is a debt-free action.

[kangen-wanshi]

Hii!!

Is it okay if I request Gepard x reader? Where he isn't educated in romance and stuff so he reads and watches cliche romance stuff and tries them out on us.

(Bonus if he swoops us off our feet randomly and bites a rose from it's stem to look like those cringe catcallers but HE looks like a suave mf)

Different ft. Gepard Landau

Ever since he's got into a relationship with you, he realizes how 'bland' and 'simple' his way of approaching romance is. To capture your heart more, perhaps, a few change is in order..

Tags: sfw, no pronouns used but reader is shorter than Gepard

Sheltered and wholey inexperienced of romance - is often the idea that swims around as gossip in Belobog in terms of the Captain of the Silvermane’s single romantic life.

This, fortunately, is not entirely true.

As a Landau, yes he was mostly driven to a path made for him since young, depriving him of normal childhood, friendship, and well, romance.

But the young man is not entirely clueless to it. In fact, he was taught about romance from when he was a teenager.

He was expected to find an admirable figure to court and brought back to the Landau family, hence he was taught to be a gentleman, and how to ‘court properly’. So even though he’s not so clueless in the romance department.. His method can feel entirely.. Stiff, and scripted.

Planned dinner dates at the best restaurant in town, daily letters sent to your mailbox, messages every morning, evening and night to check up on you when he’s away at the Frontline.

He’s sweet, really. He knows he’s doing something right (despite the eye roll and the teasing from his sister) when he sees you blush, smile or giggle at his attempt.

But whenever he sees your attempt at confronting him with your love, in comparison, he feels like his method is a bit too mellow to your bright light.

But this is the best way Gepard knows how to court and show your love properly with someone.. How can you be so creative at showing your love to him? He doesn’t know.

But he will find out!

So he went on his secret journey and mission to achieve a way to sweep you off of your feet (literally and figuratively).

He asks Serval - obviously, for a guide, considering that her lifestyle is more carefree than he is and that she’s a close friend of yours. He asks for advice from some of the Silvermane guards who're already in a romantic relationship as well as Dunn to help! And he even went out to ask the Trailblazers about how to ‘woo you properly’.

The last attempt is what sparked the idea of your current predicament.

The Trailblazers are a creative bunch, considering that they came from beyond the sky, their methods are also.. Beyond the sky. March 7th and her silver haired friend was the one who lent him a videotape containing a compilation of cheesy romance movies from across the galaxy!

So, being the Landau he is, he studied it intensely.

As intense as he could, to the point that one of his soldiers can swear that they can hear him rehearse some quote under his breath during patrol duty.

But learning alone won’t do! Gepard strives to take action! As soon as he finds himself to be well prepared, he makes his move.

Inviting you to the rooftop of one of the tallest buildings in Belobog just on the outskirt of town, heater are properly arranged, a set of blanket and pre-heated meal waiting for the two of you under the starry and beautiful night of the city.

Gepard was there first, naturally, to make sure that everything was prepared and every backup plan ready to go.

When you arrive, the show begins:

Sitting there on a single lone chair is Gepard himself. Outside of his uniform, he wears an oddly simple white shirt (that seems to suspiciously wrap his figure well), as well as a pair of black dress pants. His legs are crossed over the other, one of his arms is leaning on the back of the chair while the other is propped on his knee.

And that wasn’t the weirdest part of it all.. Gepard is.. Biting a stem of rose..?

“Wha..” You hold your stifle, “.. Love, what are you doing?”

“Waiting for you, my rose.” He finally speaks up, his speech entirely different from his usual polite and straightforward manner, as he pulls himself up from the chair swiftly, and plucks the rose off from his lips to give to you, “For you, dear.”

Now you can’t help but giggle and give him the stupidest grin yet as you take the rose from him and took his offered hand as he lead you to where the picnic set is waiting, with your arm linked to his leaning onto his thin shirt, you finally gave in and snort, “Alright, alright, out with it Gepard, did Sampo set you up for this? Or did you lose a bet with someone?” you giggled at the rose he gave you, "This is.. A bit out of character even for you."

“Wh- No, no no, of course not,” nearly caught off guard with his own stuttering, he coughed to his hand, “I’m just.. Trying to be different today, that is all.”

“Different?” You look up to him with a raised eyebrow, “Different why? What do you mean?”

“Well, I..” He sighed, his shoulder dropped, as pink finally creeped up to his cheek. Serval was right - this plan is way too difficult for him to go through. He may be well versed in Preservation when it comes to battle, but when he’s supposed to mimic and maintain the persona of a flirt from a movie directed in an entirely different planet.. Perhaps his skill doesn’t really cover him in that area.

“I just wanted to do something different for you,” he puts his hand above yours, squeezing slightly with a small smile, “You’ve been busy yet you always shower me with your various ways of showing your love. So I just.. Want to do something for you, in return.”

He pulled your hand up and lowered his head, to plant a more firm, and more genuine kiss to your hand, “Sorry if it ends up a little.. Weird, or awkward to your liking. I was told by the Trailblazer that this was uh, a famous way on how to charm your partner, so.. I thought you might like it.”

You took your time to process his words, yet any fancy way of reciprocating it is immediately wiped away by the melting of your heart at the explanation of his attempt. So instead of saying anything, you cupped his cheek and planted a quick kiss on his lips.

“You don’t have to be different to make me happy, Gepard,” you plant another kiss on his cheek, “Whatever you do or give to me - I’ll always cherish it.”

This isn’t how it’s supposed to be. He glared at you with a conflicting gaze and reddened cheek. He was supposed to be the one who made your heart go ‘doki doki!’ as one of the illustration books he borrowed from the Trailblazer - not you making his heart flutter!

So he commits to the final act by putting his arms under you and picking you up swiftly bridal style in his arms, earning a surprise yelp and a tight clutch of your fist on his shirt. Finally, He caught you off-guard and made you flustered instead by his action.

Still dazed and surprised by his sudden boldness, Gepard sneaked a kiss on your nose, before nuzzling your neck, and carried you over to the picnic area he’s settled with a proud smile on his face.

He’ll most likely ditch whatever embarrassing attempt he did before, but this? He’s definitely going to do a couple more of this in the future.

[brucewaynehater101]

How the Bats argue against Jason's murder in fics

Now, Jason's murders vary in fics on a spectrum. There's murderous killing even common goons up to only those folks who are repeat, violent offenders that are not able to be contained/do their time (whether due to a corrupt system or them escaping).

We are gonna chat about the second one [in simple terms, Jason being particular and only killing the really evil bastards].

Side note, this is neither arguing for or against Jason's methods. This addresses how Jason may relinquish killing in fics in a more realistic manner than simply because he was told to or he wants to make amends

I've seen the Bats arguing shit like:

"Murder is wrong"

"This is not how we operate"

"We are not judge, jury, and executioner"

"This makes you a villain/evil/a murderer"

These arguments, frankly, are shit. This should not convince Jason to stop. Red Hood is killing from a logical-based moral standpoint (by neutralizing the threat permanently, he is saving inevitable future victims). Jason believes his option is frowned upon, but ultimately the right path. It's a "I'm doing what's necessary even if it damns me" mindset.

Arguing it's wrong will simply make him scoff or laugh. He knows the Bats don't like it, and he know they find it morally reprehensible. He still finds his actions to be necessary.

Jason isn't a child that needs to be told "right" and "wrong." He simply has a different moral code. Instead, these arguments in a fic serve as a reflection on the Bat that makes those statements.

This is not a diss to anyone's religion, but a similar comparison is to folks who base their moral code on holy texts and then try to tell other people what's "right" or "wrong" based on what their scripture says. If the other person doesn't have the same religion, you simply can not make moral arguments based on texts they don't believe in... Cause that writing has no weight to them. You would need to argue why something is "wrong" without resorting to: because [] says so.

By only declaring it as wrong, all that Bat is doing is showcasing their inability to communicate/be morally flexible. They are showing an unwillingness to acknowledge Jason's points or try to engage in counterpoints to convince him. These arguments usually predate the Bats trying to force Jason to stop killing instead of allowing him to make the choice for himself.

That is a perfectly fantastic fic idea to explore, but this wouldn't persuade Jason to change his ways. In fact, it may make him dig his heels into his methods more.

For arguments to sway Jason's opinion on how to pursue justice:

There is no oversight for Jason's murders

Cops enforce with killing (regardless of how you feel about the truth of this statement, Jason would hate this comparison)

Killing takes away chances for reformation

The threat of death causes false confessions/fear-based responses

Unclear standards on killing leads to innocents fearing Red Hood and not feeling safe

Escalation can occur (especially in fucking Gotham) when people feel their lives are threatened

Killing takes a mental strain and is thus harmful to Jason

Death is permanent and they can't suffer

There is no remedy for human error if they are dead

I'm sure there's more, but these are starting points to stop Jason's murders or ween him off of it [such as requiring Babs or Tim or Dick or Steph or the Outlaws or fucking Alfred to double check Jason's work before the execution].

Once again, I am not claiming any of these reasons are "correct" or that Jason's way is "incorrect." This is how a certain dynamic may be influenced by various conversation paths

[shirefantasies]

Things You Do Together- LoTR Characters

A little buffer posting during recovery, sorry y’all 😅 I have some requests getting ready too though! Did a version for Thorin’s company a while back so here’s this version too 🥰

Aragorn wishes there to be no secrets, as few misunderstandings as could arise. Thus his goal is to help you reach fluency in Elvish; after all, many of his friends and familial figures are of Middle Earth’s eldest race. Their script is quite complex, so barring a great desire of yours to be writing it soon Aragorn focuses upon recognition of important words and phrases. Starting, of course, with my love.

Legolas teaches you archery, standing behind you as you fire his bow. Such a patient teacher and not one to burst out laughing if the arrow arcs spectacularly right back down into the grass. Surely he will smile and shake his head, but he understands. Everyone was there once, himself no exception. Pays such attention to detail you will catch him making the smallest of adjustments, even little things like changing the position of your fingers with his.

Desiring to prove both his and his people’s worth, Boromir attends with you at his side a joust hosted by Gondor’s men. You delight in choosing and cheering on a champion, shouting with joy at his successes and sympathizing with strikes against him. When, you think aloud to Boromir, was the last time you both laughed so? Pulling you close, he tells you he does not remember when, but if he has his way it will be soon again.

If you desire exploration, you know that Gimli will be right at your side to enjoy the world’s beauty. Caves, of course, are a domain of his people, expanses of stone glittering on walls and hanging down to your level. Forests, too, homes of fairer beings and much provision. Things Gimli has sworn to protect and love in this life that he wishes to experience with the greatest of them all… you. Never does he tire of telling you nature is beautiful, but more so are you.

Frodo encourages your writing. He himself has penned you many a poem, but there is nothing like your voice, physical or metaphorical, sharing a story with him. His dream is a book containing both of your stories, perhaps even an addition to his uncle’s story. If you feel called to share stories of others, even simple escapes from reality, Frodo is your greatest supporter. With all that he endures, ever a relief is it to hear you speak of a world so different from his own.

Botany, Samwise Gamgee thinks, is best learned amongst the flowers themselves. Rather than stuff you up into the pages of some book, he takes you walking down winding Shire-paths of flowers and bushes, showing you how he can tell what's related by things like leaf shape and giving you little tips and tricks to remember bloom names. “If you forget forget-me-nots, after all,” he teases with a wink, “you’re doing them quite the disservice!”

Merry teaches you his method of whittling, the way he crafts little trinkets of wood to keep occupied in idle times. When you feel more confident in your skills, Merry challenges you: he crafts a little figure of you and you of him. Complain as you do that his lovely hair is hard to capture, in the end you are proud of your first figure and Merry keeps it in the pocket closest to his heart. Those figures serve as the cake topper at your wedding a little ways down the line!

It can be a messy time, but Pippin adores spending time in the kitchen with you! Not only because he knows you’ll acquiesce him with little tastes, but because he’s fascinated at the process, the way you throw things together to make something beautiful and are so willing to have a feast made whenever guests call. Ever one for physical touch, Pippin enjoys sugary-sweet moments like sneaking up behind you for a kiss as you’re occupied kneading dough or standing against you to help stir your soup. And yes, sometimes he spills, but he always apologizes and cleans up after himself and don’t we all make mistakes?

Faramir reads with you, or, if you are stressed, to you. Sharing a love of your land’s myth, the studies of triumphs, follies, and magics past are like traveling far away to him, so to have a companion in that rings deep joy into his heart. He cannot help sometimes comparing the great love stories of Middle Earth to the way you found each other. Faramir is the type to know all your favorite tales and offer them to you at just the right time, sitting you in his lap or against his chest on a bed as he peels the pages open for you.

Smithing is something Eomer is confident you can learn, especially if he knows you wish to be involved in battles and wants to keep you safe! Being a supplier is just as important, otherwise there would be no blades to hoist for Rohan. Always encouraging you to hit harder and chuckling at your initial fear of the red-hot steel, Eomer loves standing behind you and guiding your motions. Perhaps even using this as an opportunity to sneak a kiss!

Haldir shows you how he cares for trees, even the smallest pieces of creation. Small potted trees akin to bonsais decorate shelves and tables in Lothlorien, and trimming and shaping them is an art form in and of itself. Nurturing a tiny, delicate life, after all, requires more intricacies than the greater fortitude. Microcosms of Haldir’s home forest sit before you as you take in his reverent, peaceful smile, hear his guiding words about the nutrients they need. You never tire of the focus spread across his face, the gentle opening of tiny blossoms.

Eowyn adores sparring with you no matter your skill level, moving slower or picking up her pace depending on it. She never wishes to go too hard on you, but does want to push you to try new things and experience different angles so you can keep yourself safe in a fight, Valar forbid you are so threatened. Sometimes your sparring is more playful, more just the two of you chasing each other around with wooden swords and one knocking the other over at the end of it, laughing as you tumble to the ground.

Enjoying the occasional swim, Arwen invites you into one of her home's gorgeous pools with her, stripping you both down to thinner layers as you step into perfectly, perhaps magically, warmed water. Polished stones roll beneath your feet as you wade over to each other, hands joining as you float in peaceful, loving silence. A smile spreads across Arwen's face before she gives you a light, teasing splash, silence quickly devolving into giggles as your troubles lighten.

Elrond is known for making some of the best tea in Middle Earth, and you experience his skills and then some. Not only does the lord of Imladris brew you a cup of your favorite herbal blend, he will also ensure that his bakers have pastries warm and ready and the loveliest toppings. Your relaxation time is like a little ceremony, Elrond pouring your drink and serving you all you wish on your little platter. You will not so much as lift a finger until it is to take a sip of the warm comfort as you and Elrond watch the surrounding waterfalls.

Taglist: @lokilover476 @fuckyoumakeart @kilibaggins @mossthebogwitch @ibabblealot @joonies-word | Reply/Ask/Message to join!

[ghost-bxrd]

Something interesting about Bruce's No-Kill Rule and his sons in the canon comics...

Jason's resentment has less to do with Bruce failing to save him - he has come to admit Batman isn't infallible, after all - and more to do with how he wasn't seen as worth avenging.

Of course, there can be plenty debate whether or not Bruce is justified and it's been debated to death, but the interesting part?

When it is Dick who dies - or is dying - Bruce seems fully willing to ditch the No Kill Rule. Three canon examples, in fact.

Infinite Crisis, when it looks like Luthor Jr killed Dick. Wonder Woman has to talk him down from straight up executing Luthor in cold blood.

Forever Evil, where Bruce goes feral and seems full willing to slaughter Luthor when Dick is killed. Though, I guess this can be excused - he just watched his son being killed before his eyes, and he had the same vengeance frenzy phase after Jason died, having to be restrained by Superman.

Third one, when Dick is shot by KGBeast. Bruce tears through everything and everyone in his path, beats the assassin to a pulp and leaves him to die in a snowstorm.

Not sure if KGBeast actually dies, but what Bruce did would absolutely have killed him and Bruce knew it. And unlike the other two situations, not only was Dick not actually dead at the time, even if badly wounded, this was a methodical, pretty long hunt that would have given him time to think it over and choose...

Wonder how Jason would have reacted to this... Bruce wouldn't avenge him, but when it is everyone's favorite Nightwing who is taken...

Sure, in the Owl Song AU this won't hold, since the relationships are very different, but in other AUs or in Canon itself (whatever version you choose as canon)?

How would things change in an AU where Dick is the one who dies instead of Jason? Given Bruce has more or less fully demonstrated his willingness to kill if it's for Dick Grayson...

It‘s one of the aspects of canon I will never understand, nor do I want to. It‘s just unfathomable to me, demonstrating such clear favoritism towards one of your children.

I adore Dick Grayson, don’t get me wrong, but there’s just something so inherently wrong about a parent showing how much more one of their children means to them compared to the others.

And yes, we can argue about how Bruce‘s bond with Dick is just so much stronger because he was his first Robin, how Dick made Bruce as a person grow beyond himself and and his mindset of vengeance, and how Dick was what kept Bruce sane and firmly on the good side.

But that’s no excuse for how he treated the others moving forward. No excuse for forcing Dick into Spyral, for beating Jason up worse than he ever did Joker, etc.

It‘s part of why I think Jason‘s anger towards Bruce is justified. If Dick died instead of him and then came back, demanding Bruce kill Joker… I don’t think it would have ended with a batarang in Dick‘s neck. Just saying.

So yeah, current canon Bruce is a jerk. And an even worse parent. I don’t know why that’s such a popular take for canon writers atm :/

I prefer to stick to storylines where he‘s an actual dad/good person, like his original depiction intended ✨

[gliphyartfan]

@yanderelinkeduniverse @stars-for-thought @imprisioned-in-the-hole @screaming-until-god-hears-me @crestfallenmermaidan @ice-cream-writes-stuff @linked-heroes @eternadreeblissa

Howdy Howdy! Boy this one should have been posted a few days ago! Sadly I got rather sick and then how to deal with a few other things. I'm good-ish now!

But it's here! And I shall be taking a victory nap as a reward!

This one ran away from me. Did not expect it to follow the path it did. But it happened and I accepted my fate.

(Note to self: Never write about deities, they take full control of the majority of the story, making me write more than planned while they take center stage 😤)

-

-

-

What He saw was the sight of battle.

What He smelled was the scent of blood.

What He heard was the sounds of combat. 

What He felt was the ground rumble below Him and the shifting of the winds. 

Felt the scent of smoke and blood fill His lungs and escape. 

Before Him, beasts that cried for flesh. 

Behind Him, He sensed terror, caution, and pain. 

He did not need to look around to know why He was released. 

Unrestrained beasts that needed to be culled.

The Young Vessel's desire for their deaths urged him forward. 

Yes. He understood well His purpose for being called. 

He raised His sword, uncaring of the sight of beasts instinctively cowering before him. 

It was not an unusual sight for Him.

It was only natural that the weak kneel before Strength.  

It was the way of War. 

The weak bow to the blade. 

But foolishness comes to the weak sooner or later, shown as one of the beasts became brazen enough to charge forward, it's allies even more so as they followed suit.

He hefted His blade above His head. 

And the hoards quickly fell to His might.

—

—

There is a eternal repetition in battle. Repetition in war. 

Use your weapon. Kill your enemy. Move on to the next. 

The methods that war is waged may change as eras pass, but remove all the ideologies that each side has, and the bare bones of it all is the same as the very first war to ever be waged. 

There are the Victors, and there are the Defeated.

 All of them have blood on their hands. 

Gods are no different from mortals in that aspect. Despite what many, divine included, may say otherwise. 

If it were not so, the Fierce Deity would have no need to exist. Perhaps he would have long been granted the Fine Rest all souls earn inevitably. 

Imprisonment within the mask did not mean death of who He was. Even within the wooden cage, the Drums of War called to Him constantly. 

Battle urged Him to come. To lay waste against those He would claim as enemies. 

Having a hand in Majora's death was a satisfying return to the mortal plane. 

But to bond with the young vessel that He laid claim to. A soul that could hold His power without risk of corruption. It lead much change for Him.

He sensed the Soul long before he ever step foot in that place of mourning and memories. Sensed the touch of divinity that coated his soul. (A touch that displeased him, though he had not yet known why) 

A seemingly fragile shell with a Soul that wielded such uncanny Strength. 

The boy had been far from his reach when he had first been made aware of it's presence, yet the boy's soul strongly reached for Him, as if it had known Him longer than the mortal shell had lived.

Many times the connection they held, fragile as it was, would strengthen without warning, then weaken after some time. 

The sense of Divinity would ting within those moments. 

The soul echoed it's emotions to Him when their connection grew during those times. 

What emotions they were. 

The force of them all pulled at His attention, left Him unable to return to the silence that his prison wrapped Him in. 

Turbulent. Like a raging storm. 

Yet at some point, it dulled. Repressed itself deep within. Yet with focus He could feel the raging force within longing to be released upon those that had wronged it's shell. 

 The urge would sometimes overtake the boy.

When it did, the feeling of loss would overwhelm them both. It was an agony that He felt through his incorporeal being every single moment until the connection would fade back to fragility.

Soon the connection no longer fluctuated in strength. 

But it did grow closer. 

and with it's nearing, it was inevitable that He would come to learn the reason behind the turmoil he perceived within it.

—

—

Young, weary yet hardened eyes took in the lands that held his prison. 

Lands that did, yet did not, exist.  

Still, those same eyes took in the life in this world, saw it with familiarity that one his age should not have. 

He was a shell that was Weak. 

Or so He had thought. In the beginning, at the very least. 

He had not meant to speak to the boy when he sent foot within the land of timeless death, merely choosing to speak into the silence, aware that any answer would not be made. 

Yet He had not been displeased when the boy answered Him back without a moment of hesitation. Even less displeased when the boy was unbothered by His return to silence.

He watched how those eyes remained dulled and unfeeling as the cycle of repetition continued. 

 They did not waver even when He spoke to the boy.

And still He watched. Witnessed the cycles repeating themselves, over and over again in this Timeless land.

The boy collected the masks, assisted every person that he could, and with each mask granted to him, their connection strengthened. 

A question asked by Him for every moment the child Fell to the First Day. 

The child would answer without fear or question. 

The child who opened his very soul to Him.

It was...interesting...to watch this strange boy, to be allowed to witness all that made him who he was. 

To see the vessel grown to match the strength of his Soul, to sense His claim over him within those memories despite never having claimed him before. 

To witness the battles that had Once been fought by his hand. 

To see others with souls as strong as his. Hardened through trials that no mere warrior could face without becoming corrupted.

To see them all slowly soften within the presence of a mere mortal girl. 

She was a curiosity at most. Though an ignorable presence at minimum. 

A being from another reality all together. One that does not have active gods nor active magic. 

The world may have arose from Chaos but magic has always rested against the surface of the lands. To know of a world that exists without such foundations...that was what caught His eye. 

He supposed the girl had a way with words and actions. Easily able to ease the sorrows of His Vessel and his companions with well meaning acts of kindness. 

A maternal hand. Perhaps a touch uncommon for a woman of her age without young ones, but not out of the ordinary for someone to be naturally caring. 

She was a curiosity. But a dull one. 

In the beginning. 

Yet he watched the memories that may as well also be His as His Vessel sharpened his blade and slaughtered all those that dare endanger her. 

How he and his companions nearly tore one another apart in a bid to claim a place within the one who's heart they desired to protect and cherish. 

It was then He began to focus on who the woman was.

This woman was knowledgeable as a royal scholar, wise with words in a way that even the most experienced ambassadors could not best. 

A heart that opened itself to those that had good souls yet a steel gaze that was ready to pierce anyone who would dare to fool her. 

In a way, all that was lacking was physical strength. 

It was utterly fascinating to witness. 

The souls of the Hylian Lands, they grew too used to peace. Rarely was war fought unless the Demon heir rose to bring it forth. The souls here preferring to stay in their ignorant comfort as the Goddess sent her Chosen Sacrifice of the era to do her bidding. 

Yet this one soul, one without magic nor blessings... 

Yes...He longed to see how much this woman's strength grew. 

This woman was not as fragile as He first assumed. 

He wondered, how she would take to the blade. 

Perhaps a spear? Nothing so fragile as a Bow nor dagger. No, this woman would not be pleased fighting at a distance. 

He wondered what expression she would show as she felled her enemies? 

What gaze would pierce her dying foes as she cut into their flesh? 

She was truly an...enigma...

Fragile yet strong. 

Heart of kindness yet a heart willing to steel itself in the face of adversity and manipulation. 

The only true reason His Vessel and his brothers succeeded in hiding the actions they committed, was simply because she saw no reason to suspect them. 

They would not have done so well, had she viewed them as adversaries. 

Indeed, The being that He once was, in a time no longer existent, had assumed too hastily.

 She was a match for Him and His. More so than any of the Goddess' blood. 

A soul worthy of His blessing and protection. 

It would indeed take a strong soul to attract the hearts of those who the Goddess of the Hylian land would dare claim as Hers.

A sense of peace was instant her presence, one that His Vessel had never held before. 

A peace that spread amongst those His Vessel eventually claimed as Sword Brothers. 

Yet...even the Deity of War knew such peace was always at risk of being ripped from mortals who were not cautious. 

And inevitably, the woman was stolen from them. (From Him.) 

His Vessel and his brothers broken by her absence. (His immense displeasure at their failings) 

Then...power. Much of it. Colliding and mixing in ways such differences each power held should not. 

And then...His Vessel woke again. Body once more that of a child. 

Awakening just as He took notice of the sudden connection that they shared. 

One that should not have existed, yet had always been there.

It seemed the Vessel was as aware of their connection as He was. Perhaps that familiarity was enough for his mind,unbalanced as it was, to hold on. 

He supposed His being had been used for worse purposes before. He saw no shame in a fellow warrior finding a semblance of grounding within the presence of a comrade. 

When the moment came that his wooden prison was placed in his Vessel's hand, their connection solidified instantly. 

Odd it was, to feel such a...sense of rightness. 

This...was His Vessel. 

How the boy relaxed upon wielding His mask. His power, His Being, coursing through his mortal veins, as the young Vessel's form adapted to house His soul. 

As it was always meant to. 

( When He returns to His prison at the end of their battle with Majora, He ponders what thoughts would fill the Great Ones of the Beyond. Should they ever learn of the Goddesses' actions? What would the Great Ones think of the Divine Maidens, sending infants to fight Their wars?)

—

—

He recognized the souls approaching Him from His Vessel's memory.

Where the other warriors treaded cautiously around Him, these souls walked without fear nor arrogance. 

His Vessel was not pleased by their presence. 

(his hurt echoing through Him at the sight of them.) 

'Leave.' His Vessel's presence echoed within him. 

Leave?

His Vessel? Unwilling to face them? Those that his heart claims as his own? 

Unwilling to face the possibility that they would view him with unfamiliar eyes? 

(Such an strong yet vulnerable soul His Vessel was.)

It was rather humorous to note. 

The two warriors drew near and stopped before Him. Each standing a bit further away as if in respect of His Presence.

Murmurs from the surrounding troops gradually spread out over the temporary encampment.  Easily ignored, He did not care for any attention paid His way.

He awaited their next action, silent as he was gazed upon by those that may or may not know Him and His well. 

The two sides stared at one another, His mind immediately noted similarities between the two men and his Vessel.

Both possessed powerful souls, His Vessel's own soul calling out to it's brethren. 

Their bodies relaxed, their hands visible. As if to assure him that they mean no harm. 

But their eyes, such gazes hid many intentions. Yet they were clear to Him with ease. 

...No, it was not that He was able to see their their facade. It was that they were not bothering to hide it from Him. 

They sought Him-sought out His Vessel whilst playing the part of oblivious men. 

And the intimidated men surrounding them, all were blind by such a weak farce.  

It seemed they were done with their inspection of Him as He was with them. 

The younger one took a step forward but was stopped by the elder one's arm. 

The elder one ('Captain' His Vessel's thought echoed through Him.), stepped forward, closing the space between then til he was naught by a few feet away. 

"May your sword never dull." The warrior greeted him, the corner of his lips turning upward in a faint smirk. 

"Though if it must dull, May it dull after your enemies are long since slain." 

It seems His Vessel saw fit to teach them proper greetings. Curious. (As was the surprising echoing from His Vessel.) 

"Captain," one of the men in the crowd whispered toward the elder warrior, "He's dangerous! Ally or no, we can't risk antagonizing him!"

Without a hint of regarded to the whispered warning, the captain pressed his sword hand horizontally across his abdomen, bowing deeply to Him. 

"We are honored by your presence, Great Deity, and your assistance in winning this battle." The captain spoke, voice calm and respectful "May we prove ourselves worthy of your continued favor in this war."

"...You speak well." Amusement sparked within Him as the men surrounding them jumped at His voice. 

Yet His Vessel's brethren were not phased. 

"I am honored by your acknowledgement." The captain replied smoothly, "I was taught well by a most trusted comrade." 

His Vessel had indeed taught him well. Not many would greet Him with such respect and sincerity. 

Even if His vessel was still displeased with the situation at hand. The urge to leave pulsing through their connection. 

...He naturally chose to ignore it. (The annoyance that pulsed soon after indicated that His Vessel was very aware of his intentional ignorance.) 

He observed the captain, noting His Vessel's emotions as he watched the man straightened. 

 Peace mixed with quiet joy. Yet also anxiousness and frustration. 

Truly was His Vessel willing to hide away in order to avoid facing what troubles him? 

Always so childish when it comes to matters of heart and soul. 

No matter to Him, He had no wish to linger amongst solders who could not muster the courage to look Him in the eyes. 

'I've faced my share of battles today.' He spoke to His Vessel, pulses of confusion and sudden panic swept through Him as He reached up and covered His face with His hand.

'Now you face yours.' And He released His hold on His Vessel, His power being pulled back into His wooden prison. 

---

---

Warriors watched as a bright flash of light consumed the surrounding area, exclamations filled the air yet the light faded as quickly as it appeared. 

Where the Fierce Deity once stood, now the men saw- 

"Is that a child?" 

The young boy, perhaps a bit younger than the Hero of Winds, stood there, mask in hand. 

Bafflement clear on his face as he stared straight at the Captain. 

"Hello Hero of Time." Warriors greeted him, a hand resting on his hip, his words inciting more whispers. 

Time blinked repeatedly, lowering his gaze to the mask in his hand. 

Slowly, his gaping mouth twisted into a scowl, and without a moment of hesitation, he threw the deity's mask to the ground before him. 

"Damned God!" He exclaimed angrily, even as the surrounding men because to quickly step back, faces rapidly paling at the young hero's actions. "A devil more like! Always putting me on the spot when I least want his damned input!" 

Warriors chuckled, which slowly turned into a laugh. 

Wind behind him, biting his bottom lip and trying to stay silent despite his shoulders shaking from his own laughter. 

---

---

"Oh, I haven't laughed like that in ages!" Warriors commented, still chuckling as they settled in a isolated corner of the encampment. 

It had taken some time to calm his men, but eventually he had managed to guide Wind and Time away with him. 

"They all looked like you insulted their mother." Wind snickered, legs kicking against the crate he sat on. "Then again, they'd probably look less insulted if you had." 

"Moments like this makes me wonder why I let that one put me in the spotlight." Time grumbled, sitting on the ground and resting against the crate Wind sat on. 

"Well, it seems he simply wanted you to stop trying to hide away." Warriors suggested, reaching behind him and unclasping the waterskin from his belt and holding it put to Time.

"Here, I doubt all that fighting in this soot filled air has done your tongue any favors." 

Time eyed the hand before accepting the waterskin and taking a drink. 

Silence reigned in their small corner.

Wind humming quietly as Time stared at the ground at his feet. 

"...How have you been, my sword brother?" Warriors asked watching as Time set the waterskin aside as he shifted slightly against the crate.

"...I suppose I could be worse." Time replied.  "I've been better, considering I don't feel quite as alone anymore."

"It's a nice feeling." Warriors agreed,  smiling at his brother fondly.

"Mn."

Another silence reigned as Time stared at the ground.

"…Do you want to talk about it?"

"What is there to talk about?" Time said, "I woke in a body I had long thought I would never be forced to wear again. Forced to see the faces of my allies look at me with unfamiliarity. To bow my head towards the Goddess' heir.  To journey again through places I never wished to traverse again." Time spoke through his teeth, his breath escaping in a hiss. 

"All while trying to differentiate between truth and fiction within the confines of my own mind." He laughed bitterly. 

"No, I don't have much going on in my life." 

"Well pardon me for assuming you've been struggling." Warriors commented sarcastically. 

He expected no answer to that but instead received only a scoffed laugh as Time leaned back against the crates once more. "Of course not. It would just be foolish on my part to assume otherwise, when the last time I was faced with the reality of a future that does not exist."

Warriors fell silent.

"But...you know it happened." Wind piped up. "We both remember it too, three for three. So that means the others must remember too." 

That earned an agreeing hum from Time who didn't utter anything else.

"But why didn't you find us?" Warrior continued, "Why not find us so you could share your burden with ones who knows what it feels like?"

"Because I... couldn't burden you with something as trivial as-" He cut himself off, "-I mean-" 

Time sighed, closing his eyes for a moment. When he opened them again, his expression was solemn, his youthful face contrasting with such an old expression.

"I'm...nowhere near the end of this curse." 

"Time-" 

"How long will it be for you both, before we are all united once again." He asked, "One? Two? A few years at most?" 

Wind and Warriors stayed silent. 

"But what about me? Trapped in a child's body once again, and every aspect that comes with such a curse." 

"Pardon if this may sound offending, but is it truly as bad as you say?" Warriors questioned.

"You are not the one who must wait decades to reunite with everyone." Time snapped, turning his gaze away from them to glare up at the darkening sky.

"I logically thought of all the benefits that came with this circumstance of renewal. What I could improve from my previous path. What I could change." Time left out a quiet laugh, face twisting into a weak smile before it return to the frown it had.

"I tried to see everything from the perspective of someone who could return to our goddess with strength and wealth that would benefit her and her happiness." He shook his head, eyes closing. 

"But it was not returning to my past that hurt. Nor was it that all my efforts in the previous life was erased like wind blowing away words written in sand. To be looked at with pitying eyes who only see a child, no matter the efforts I do to prove otherwise." He opened his eyes, tears glistening at the corners and threatening to fall. 

"What truly hurts is the length of time that I must wait to return to you all. Not to even bring up the length until we reunite with our beloved." 

His eyes burned as the two other men stayed silent and patient.

(He hadn't even realized he had started shedding tears until Wind's hand gently rested on his shoulder and squeezed it tight.)

"I..."

His voice broke as he spoke, though he swallowed down the emotion before letting out another sob.

"There's nothing I want more than for us all to be reunited again, even moreso being reunited with our beloved." He whispered, "Yet I can barely handle it. The pain, knowing I'll spend decades waiting for my comrades to come together once more. In a way, seeing you both now is like salt on the wound, a wound that is then grind down by one's heel." 

He took a deep breath and closed his eyes tightly, as a choked laugh escaped his throat.

"I'm sure you heard of the failed assault against the sorceress' forces? The one led by the Lieutenant General Doza?"

"He tried to lead an assault through the Palace of Twilight, right?" Wind  stated, "And failed half way through, along with the slaughter of most of his men. . After that, he sent a message requesting for rescue and stating that the sorceress' forces are stronger than ever."

"Which they now are, thanks to his disregard of the warnings they received." Time spat,  eyes opening wide as his tone went sharp and cold.

"He also claimed that he was 'caught unawares', and that if he had be 'properly forewarned', he would have succeeded."

"Something tells me he had been forewarned." Warriors remarked calmly.

"He was," Time answered, "By me." 

"...What?" Warrior frowned.

"Before he neared the palace, I had crossed paths with him. I recalled you mentioning last time how the previous assault also failed and I had approached him with 'advice.'" He explained with a scowl. "He laughed at me and told me little children should not play at being a soldier. He ordered some of his men to escort me to safety while he marched his men forward." 

"That arrogant-" Warriors pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling sharply. "Seems the death of his captain took the last of his senses. I lent him some of my men. The very same ones who lost their lives there."

"The attack failed against the sorceress, as expected. The only reason there were any soldiers left to save was because I requested reinforcements after I was shoved to one of the far bases." Time continued.

"Didn't really stick around to see if they came in time, left as soon as I sent the message." 

"That explains why I was praised for my foresight in the rescue." Warriors muttered. 

"I knew how to make it seem like you wrote it, so I took advantage of that." Time sighed. 

"Lives lost due to arrogance and overconfidence in one's position. Worst part? He'll never admit to it. Even if I had been an adult." 

"Men like him never want someone else to order them around." Wind commented. "Is that why you've been sticking as the Deity?" 

"He's imposing enough to make sure no one tries to treat me like a child." Time answered smoothly. 

"Yet you were hoping that you could use him to bypass speaking to us." Warriors placed his hands on his hips, Time looked away. 

"I already told you why." 

"Yes, but why didn't you try talking to us sooner?" Warriors demanded. "The failed assault happened two weeks prior, where were you?" 

"Does it even matter?" Time asked tiredly. 

"Not particularly, but I'd still prefer if you would at least tell us why." Warriors said.

Silence reigned for awhile.

Finally, a sigh left Time's lips.

"I was scared." He admitted.

"..Scared?"

"Don't tell me neither of you were scared at the possible idea none of us remembered." Time scoffed. 

Silence descended upon them once more.

"I was terrified." He confessed quietly, "I was petrified of facing you both, of seeing your faces look at me with unfamiliarity." 

He rubbed his cheek with his hand, "I could barely stomach returning to my child's body. But seeing you both look at me with unfamiliar eyes? That would have broken me." 

"But we do remember." Warriors quietly stated, taking a step forward. 

"But I didn't know that yet, did I?" Time smirked weakly at him. 

"Believe me, hearing you greet the deity as you did and knowing you could only do so if you remembered." He sighed calmly, "It lit my heart with so much joy." 

"But then I suppose I became a coward in the time we have been apart. Here I was, willing to hide away so you would not see me like this." He motioned to himself. 

"So I attempted the coward's way out of speaking to you." He snorted softly. "And you saw how that turned out." 

Warriors took a step forward, then another. Slowly making his way to Time and kneeling before him. 

"I'm sorry my sword brother." Warriors said softly, making Time look at him. 

"Why are you sorry?"  He frowned, looking away again.

"If I'd known it meant you this much pain, I might have stopped and thought things through better." He shook his head.

"No..I-" Warriors sighed, "I'm sorry that out of all of us, you suffer the burden of years. Something no sword can defeat. That you would be left alone in your era with no true support. With no one who could hear your words and know it to be true." 

"I don't deserve such understanding, or apologies." His hands balled into fists, knuckles turning white and turning almost translucent under the strain. "None of us do for our arrogance." 

"None of us do," Warriors repeated in agreement, "But that doesn't mean we shouldn't be forgiven. Or rather, cared enough about, to forgive ourselves."

"You-" 

"We...have much to atone for. For trying to trap our beloved in a cage of our own making." He continued, "And for not being able to see it until it was too late."

He reached out slowly, taking hold of Time's shaking hands, and gave them both a gentle squeeze, Wind's hand never having left Time's shoulder. 

"But we are here. For each other. And we will stand beside you, until it is time for us to part once more." He slowly leaned his head down, pressing his forehead against Time's. 

"And when we reunite once again. We will stand by you, always. Just as you would always stand by us." 

Time stared at Warriors, mouth slightly agape.

His eyes shone bright with unshed tears 

Time blinked rapidly, the tears spilling freely. Warriors reached up and pulled him, and Wind, into a hug, letting Time bury his head in his chest and hold on tight.

"Let me go. Please." He said through his tears.

"Never."

"Please Captain-"

"Let us have this." Warriors pleaded softly to him. 

"We won't let you go." Wind agreed firmly, burying his own face against Time's shoulder. "We don't want to, not when you need this as much as we do." 

They felt Time shudder against them, and soon, he nodded. 

 They held him closer, silent as they soon heard his sobs grow louder and louder.

"I'm sorry." He sobbed, pressing his face against Warriors' tunic. "I'm sorry." 

"We're here." Was all that was said in reply. 

Time said nothing more as he continued to cry. 

Allowing himself to finally let go within the arms of the few who had his complete trust.

[atlasthegreatest]

Silent Glances and Secret Smiles / Cassandra Cain x Gender Neutral Reader

Headcanons about Cassandra and vigilante reader.

A/n: This was requested by an anon. Enjoy it!

— How did they meet? —

The first time Cassandra met Y/n was during one of her patrols in Gotham.

At the time, Y/n was still working as an enforcer for Jason (who still used the Red Hood identity), handling business in the most dangerous parts of the city. They had a reputation among the underworld as someone fiercely loyal to Jason and just as formidable in a fight.

One particular night, Cassandra was tracking a gang involved in human trafficking. Unbeknownst to her, Jason had also sent Y/n to deal with the same group, intending to send a message and shut them down for good.

They had stumbled upon each other in the middle of the operation—Cassandra moving silently in the shadows, and Y/n taking a more direct approach.

Initially, there was tension. Cassandra recognized them as one of Jason's enforcers and prepared herself for a possible confrontation. But as they quickly realized they had a common goal, Cassandra decided to see what they were all about, allowing them to work side by side.

They managed to rescue the victims and “incapacitate” the traffickers without much talking to each other – relying purely on instinct and body language.

At the end of the mission, Cassandra became curious about why they were doing what they were doing, considering their connection to Jason. She didn’t ask them directly, but her posture and the way she observed them spoke volumes.

Y/n, sensing her curiosity, explained – just enough – that they weren’t in it for power or money, but rather for reasons linked to a sense of justice.

Hearing their words, Cassandra saw something in them that she recognized in herself – a desire to fight for something greater, even if their methods were different. Her respect for them began at that moment, seeing beyond the title of “enforcer” and realizing their potential for good.

Over the next few weeks, Cassandra and Y/n’s paths continued to cross. They would run into each other while on patrol, at crime scenes, or in the middle of fights. Each encounter involved a bit of hesitation, a bit of curiosity on both sides and a growing sense of familiarity. Cassandra appreciated their straightforward nature, while they admired Cassandra’s skills and dedication.

Their relationship took a turn when Y/n saved Cassandra from an ambush she hadn’t anticipated. Despite their past, they risked their own safety to help her, and that action spoke louder than words ever could.

Cassandra, who doesn't take help lightly, acknowledged this with a rare and heartfelt "thank you." And this was the moment when the seeds of trust were planted between them.

– Transition to friendship and partnership–

After several encounters with Cassandra, Y/n began to question what they did. They watched as Cassandra fought for justice without the gray morality that Jason and they were used to operating under. Over time, they confided in Cassandra about their doubts, and she listened without judgment.

With Cassandra’s encouragement, Y/n finally made the decision to leave their enforcer days behind. Cassandra was the one who stood by them when they made the difficult decision to turn away from the darker path.

From there, their partnership blossomed. Working together more officially, they found that their dynamic worked well, a balance between Cassandra’s quiet intensity and his more direct approach.

They began to spend more time together outside of missions, training, sharing stories, and finding common ground.

— How did they realize their feelings?—

After being together several times, Cassandra and Y/n began to notice the little things about each other that stood out. Cassandra admired their determination to change and their willingness to stand up for what they believed in, even when it was difficult. And Y/n was captivated by Cassandra’s quiet strength, her empathy, and her ability to find the light in even the darkest situations.

Their connection deepened through subtle gestures.

Cassandra would bring them their favorite drink or snack during stakeouts, or patch up their wounds after a tough fight.

And Y/n, in turn, would share stories from their past to make her smile, or silently stand guard while she practiced her moves in solitude. These small, consistent actions built a sense of comfort and trust between them.

After a while, they began sharing more personal stories. Cassandra opened up about her past with David Cain and her struggles to find her own identity, while Y/n talked about their time with Jason, their troubled and abusive relationship with their family, their regrets, and their hopes for redemption. Each conversation seemed to peel back another layer, revealing more of themselves to each other.

They also bonded over their own complicated experiences of having complicated relationships with family figures—David Cain and Lady Shiva, and Y/n with Jason and their family. They understood each other’s inner conflicts and provided support in ways that only they could. Y/n began to see that they could be vulnerable with Cassandra, and she learned that she could trust them emotionally, something new for both of them.

Whenever they were on missions together, Cassandra and Y/n began to show signs of protective instincts that went beyond mere partnership. Cassandra would often stand between Y/n and danger, and they would do the same for her, sometimes arguing over who would take the greater risk.

They began to spend more time together outside of missions—training, grabbing food late at night, or just sitting in comfortable silence. Their moments together began to feel more intimate, fraught with unspoken feelings that neither of them were ready to address.

— Who realized their feelings first? —

As surprising as it may seem… both of them.

One night, after an intense mission, Y/n was badly injured, and Cassandra found herself unusually shaken. She tended to their wounds with an intensity that surprised them both, her hands lingering a little too long, her eyes conveying more emotion than her words ever could. Y/n noticed the concern in her eyes and felt a warmth spread through them, realizing how much Cassandra cared.

Could Cassandra, not used to feeling so strongly about someone, begin to realize that she might be falling for them? She felt comfortable and safe around them in a way she had never experienced before. And Y/n, picking up on the signs, decided to take a chance.

— The Confession —

One night, after a successful mission, they met on a rooftop overlooking the city. Y/n, feeling the weight of the unspoken tension between them, finally gathered the courage to speak. They admitted that they had grown to care for her deeply and wanted to see where their connection could go.

Cassandra, in her typically quiet but candid way, admitted that she felt the same. She wasn’t used to articulating her feelings, but her body language – leaning in closer, touching their hands, and the slight smile on her face – spoke volumes.

They shared a quiet, tender moment, the city lights reflecting in their eyes as they realized they were both ready to take this step. Their relationship grew gradually, with more stolen moments and shared smiles. They navigated the challenges of being vigilantes while learning to open up emotionally to each other.

Cassandra found herself feeling a little lighter, smiling more often, and Y/n felt like they finally had someone who truly understood them. They bonded over the little things, like training sessions that ended with lingering touches, or nights where they talked until dawn. They didn’t need grand declarations; their love grew through actions, silent companionship, and being each other’s haven in a chaotic world.

– What’s the dynamic of their relationship like? —

Cassandra and Y/n have a relationship built on deep, nonverbal communication. Cassandra isn’t always comfortable with words, and Y/n understands that. They don’t pressure her to say more than she wants to. Instead, they’ve learned to read her body language, expressions, and the subtle nuances of her movements. Likewise, Cassandra reads Y/n’s emotions and thoughts in the way they stand, gesture, or react to situations.

They are perfectly comfortable sitting in silence together, whether on a stakeout or just relaxing at home. They don’t need constant conversation to feel connected. Sometimes the most meaningful moments are when they are just existing together, sharing a space without the need to say a word.

They push each other to grow. Cassandra gently encourages Y/n to forgive themselves for their past, to trust their instincts, and to be more open about their emotions. And Y/n encourages Cassandra to express herself more, to understand that she doesn’t have to carry everything alone that is worthy of love and happiness.

In the field, they are perfectly in sync. Cassandra’s agility and quiet, stealthy approach balance Y/n’s more direct and strategic style. They work as a perfect team, always knowing where the other is, and always ready to cover for each other.

On missions, they share the leadership role. Sometimes Cassandra takes charge, especially in situations that require stealth or a delicate touch. Other times, Y/n takes the lead, particularly in planning or strategic missions. They respect each other’s decisions and understand that they are stronger together because of their different strengths.

Since neither of them is particularly demonstrative in conventional ways, their affection often comes through in small gestures. Cassandra might lightly touch Y/n’s arm as she passes, or Y/n might gently tuck a stray strand of Cassandra’s hair behind her ear. They hold hands in subtle, private moments or brush against each other when no one is looking.

They often engage in light-hearted sparring matches, testing each other’s reflexes and fighting skills. Their “fights” are full of light-hearted banter and laughter, each trying to outdo the other while enjoying the thrill of the challenge. Cassandra relishes the moments when she can surprise Y/n with a move they’ve never seen before.

They are fiercely loyal to each other. They both come from backgrounds where trust was hard to come by, so having someone they can trust completely is invaluable to them. They never question each other’s commitment or dedication, knowing that they’ve found someone who will support them no matter what.

They’re always learning from each other. Y/n teaches Cassandra things about the world that she may have missed, like how to navigate social situations or enjoy the small pleasures of everyday life. And Cassandra teaches Y/n how to slow down, listen to their instincts, and find peace in quiet moments.

They both value their independence and respect each other’s need for space and solitude. Y/n understands that Cassandra sometimes needs time alone to process her thoughts, and they never take that personally. Likewise, Cassandra respects their need to work through their own problems in their own ways.

— Intimacy in their relationship —

Their journey to intimacy would be gradual. Given Cassandra’s background, she is not immediately comfortable with physical affection or expressing emotions in the traditional sense. And Y/n understands this, understanding that intimacy is not just about physical closeness, but also about trust, vulnerability, and emotional safety.

Over time, they have developed their rhythm of intimacy. It starts with smaller gestures – Cassandra learning to accept initiating hugs, gentle touches, or holding hands. Y/n never rushes her, allowing her to set the pace. Slowly Cassandra becomes more comfortable with physical affection, learning to find solace in the warmth of their embraces and enjoying the closeness they share.

Even as their relationship grows, they remain relatively reserved in public. Cassandra and Y/n are not big on public displays of affection; they prefer to keep their relationship private and special. However, in private moments, they are more open—sharing tender kisses, soft touches, or just holding each other in comfortable silence.

The physical intimacy between them, when it happens, is meaningful and deliberate. They both understand that this part of their relationship is about trust and connection, not just physical pleasure. Cassandra, with her history, needs to feel completely safe, and Y/n makes sure she always feels respected and cared for. They take their time, always checking in with each other, and always communicating their needs and boundaries.

— How did Jason react to their relationship?—

When Jason first noticed that Cassandra and Y/n were spending more time together, he was suspicious. At first, he thought they were just close friends. But he quickly realized there was something more, especially when he saw how Cassandra’s gaze lingered a little longer on Y/n or how they seemed to care for her in a way that went beyond friendship.

His initial reaction was one of surprise and a bit of discomfort. Jason had always been close to Y/n, and in some ways, he felt a bit protective of them. He wasn’t sure how to feel about them getting involved with Cassandra, whom he saw as part of the BatFamily—people he had a complicated relationship with.

True to his nature, Jason’s next move was to tease the two of them. He would make playful comments whenever they were together, saying things like, “So when did this happen?” or “Wow, that’s so cute, I never thought I’d see the day!” He watched their reactions carefully, trying to gauge how serious they were with each other.

As he saw them together more often, Jason began to notice how much happier and more at peace his friends seemed. They smiled more, were less tense, and seemed genuinely content. Cassandra also seemed to be more expressive and more open in her quiet way.

Despite his acceptance, Jason still slipped into a sort of “big brother” mode. He’d talk with Cassandra one day, saying something like, “Look, I get it. You two are good together. But if you hurt them—well, you know I won’t take it lightly.” Cassandra, unfazed by the clear threat, would calmly meet his gaze and reply, “I won’t.”

He’d also pull Y/n aside for a heart-to-heart, making sure they were genuinely happy and understood what they were getting into. Once reassured, he’d give them a lopsided smile and say, “Well, as long as you’re happy, I’m happy. But don’t think I’m not watching.”

Sometimes, he’d even offer relationship advice in his unconventional way, like, “If you two ever get into a fight, remember that communication is key. Or, you know, throw a punch and then talk.”

And despite being happy for them, Jason has an uncanny knack for interrupting their alone time. He often appears unannounced, sometimes with perfect timing to interrupt a tender moment. For example, Cassandra and Y/n might be about to share a quiet, intimate kiss on a rooftop when Jason suddenly poses next to them with a loud, “Hey! I hope I’m not interrupting anything!” (He usually is.)

—How do they deal with conflict? —

Given their backgrounds and intense personalities, they occasionally have misunderstandings. Cassandra's limited verbal communication skills and Y/n's own baggage can sometimes lead to moments of frustration or misinterpretation. For example, Cassandra may withdraw after a difficult mission, needing time alone to process her feelings, which Y/n could misinterpret as her emotionally withdrawing from them.

A common source of conflict is their mutual protectiveness. Cassandra and Y/n have a habit of throwing themselves into dangerous situations to protect others, often without regard for their safety. This leads to arguments over who gets to take risks. Y/n can become frustrated when Cassandra takes on too much danger without consulting them, and vice versa. They may argue over who should have a backup or how much danger is acceptable.

Despite these conflicts, they rarely have heated arguments. They are both relatively calm and composed by nature, and their disagreements are usually resolved quickly. They have learned to communicate with each other in a way that doesn't turn into shouting matches. Instead, they talk things out, even if it takes a while for them to calm down at first.

Jealousy is not a common issue in their relationship, but it does happen occasionally. Cassandra is not naturally prone to jealousy; she is secure in who she is and trusts Y/n. However, she can sometimes feel a pang of insecurity when she sees Y/n interacting closely with someone from their past life, especially if that person has a flirtatious or familiar dynamic with them.

Y/n, on the other hand, is usually calm, but can feel flashes of jealousy when they see other vigilantes or heroes (especially those who are more outgoing or charismatic) taking an interest in Cassandra. They know that she is beautiful, strong, and unique, and they occasionally worry that she might connect better with someone more traditionally outgoing or expressive.

Even when they fight or feel jealous, they always fall back on reassurance. They don’t let misunderstandings linger. Sometimes, instead of arguing, they turn tension into a clear-headed challenge. If they disagree over something minor—like who saw the clue first or who had the best strategy—they can settle it with a practice match or a lighthearted bet.

– Bonus –

They often spend quiet evenings reading. Cassandra, who is still brushing up on her reading skills, likes to sit with or on Y/n’s lap while they read aloud to her. They might take turns reading a favorite book or comic, enjoying the peacefulness of the shared experience. Sometimes Cassandra reads aloud to practice, and Y/n listens patiently, gently helping her with words she stumbles over.

Cassandra and Y/n enjoy listening to music together. They might share a pair of headphones or sit close together while music plays from a small speaker. Cassandra enjoys the rhythm and emotion of music, and Y/n introduces her to different genres, explaining lyrics or meanings that she finds interesting. Occasionally, they dance together in the privacy of their home, gently swaying or moving to the beat.

They enjoy watching movies or TV shows, especially action movies, martial arts movies, or anime. Cassandra enjoys observing fight choreography, often pointing out flaws or impressive moves. And Y/n loves to hear her feedback and often asks what she would do differently in certain scenes. They can cuddle under a blanket, share popcorn, and quietly enjoy each other's company.

They love taking long walks through the quieter areas of Gotham or, if they need a break from the city, riding their motorcycles to the outskirts. Cassandra enjoys the feel of the wind and the speed of the ride, and Y/n enjoys the sense of freedom that these moments provide. Sometimes, they go to a secluded place where they can relax away from the chaos of the city.

[lust4lore]

LETS GET RUMBLING FOR MY BOY JOE!! - taylor anon

- he would adore a gf who has a more humanities centered career path!! he has an interest in engineering, and i think he would love somebody (and he is shown that he does) he has a different, possibly less methodical view on the world than him. somebody a little softer around the edges you know?

- speaking of which, i don’t think he would care about how outgoing you are when it comes to dating. he likes an outgoing partner as they’re open and more outeardly exciting, but a more introverted one he would appreciate your subtle reactions to being with him and the quiet moments more. the biggest difference would be that it might take longer for him to get with a whiter partner depending on his confidence level

- ARTIST GF ARTIST GF ARTIST GF!! would you row you out to legit anywhere so you can get the perfect view to sketch. no complaints. and if you draw him?? you two will be married by the end of the week

- firm believer he would leave his sweaters/shirts behind wherever you live in hopes of you wearing them. this man would genuinely LOSE HIS MIND if he snuck by in the middle of the night and realized you were sleeping in his clothes. as that one tik tok audio goes, ‘rest in piece to all the soldiers that died in the service, i died in her cervix’. you catch my drift

- i think he would become a huge flirt after yall get together! like more open compliments, flirty jokes? etc. biggest thing is i think if he’s over at your place late and you tell him you need to get changed is that he’ll grab a chair, turn it towards you, get comfy, and say something about how this was supposed to be the best view in seattle.

WE ARE RUMBLING 🥁🥁🥁🥁 P.S. if you don’t start writing for him i might just die a little bit

THE SHIRTS AND THE FLIRTING WOOOAOOAOAOAOAOOAOOOOOO. i also totally agree with the softer!gf thing because he gives soooo *tucks hair behind your ear and puts a flower there while smiling at you like he didn’t just make your heart skip a few beats* vibe

HE WOULD ALSO DEF STARE AT YOU WHILE YOURE SKETCHING AND YOU TURN TO LOOK AT HIM LIKE ‘what are you looking at?’ AND HE JUST LAUGHS QUIETLY AND SHAKES HIS HEAD AND SAYS ‘nothing, keep drawing’ AND GOES RIGHT BACK TO STARING AT YOU LIKE YOURE THE MOST INTERESTING THING TO EXIST

can i also take this moment to say that he’s such a ‘the thumb thing’ guy. like, he’s holding your hand? his thumb is running against the back of your hand. arm around your shoulder? mhm, his thumb is rubbing that too. holding your face? he’s stroking your cheek bone. he does it absentmindedly but he likes the way it makes your breath hitch.

[pumpkinstrawbrew]

❣️.ĐØ₥Ɇ₴₮ł₵₳₮Ɇ V₴ ₵₳₱₮ɄⱤɆ. ☠️

...

(i love playing with various branches of scarebat inside my head. even if it's one-note idea. but in this current bit, i was thinking about a core view on certain things, that most of their versions have in common. mainly the difference between jon's n' bruce's outlooks on how they picture 'ideal' encounter between one another. or more so, what the best outcome of it might be. what their 'great end game might look like.

bruce *for the most part* wants to believe in reabilitation. in a change for the better. it's possible to tame n' domesticate a wild crow. it might not change its habbits fully, but it's possible to make the bird less harmful *to smaller animals as they do feed on them* by keeping it happy and fed. by nurturing it into state, where it'll be mostly comfy with getting food by less extreme means. n' where it might trust you to not to harm it or stop giving it food. while, i view this set-up from a perspective of a shipper, i also can see gen approach here as well. mostly, bc i don't think that bruce would have ever left any of his *potentially ex* rogues fully unsurpivised. esp someone with history like crane's. batman is too much of a control freak to not peak into his villain's personal affairs, even if just to make sure, that they haven't went back to crime. him befriending / having a chance to impose influence on a troubled, malevolent 'crow via smth other, than use of force would have been a nice change of pace. batman is pragmatic, but i love how he doesn't ever fully dismiss the idea of 'what if', n' desire to see his rogues improving themselves. but at the same time, usually, he's the one who puts said crow back into cage *arkham*, so there is that too. he wants to do the right thing, but the bird keeps glaring at him through the narrow bars, bc it doesn't get why must it be caged for hurting n' killing other animals, when they *totally* picked on it first.

now, jon would have almost an oposite view of this, i imagine. where bruce can picture a second variant, another *brighter* path, crane kinda just cannot do the same. from his pov, there is no way for batman to ever become a villain. somebody who would team up with him. so they can't be 'together' this way. there is also no way for crane to ever get onto batman's level. esp bc he doesn't want *can't* change this drastically. therefore, the only way to keep the bat in his possession is to lock it up, trap it n' hold it in a little metalic box. hide it inside his basement, bc so many other people would love to have the bat too. he doesn't want to clip its wings, but part of him is paranoid enough to consider it. he has no idea how else to make a wild bat stay. it doesn't listen to him, like his birds do. but crane will take good care of it, anyway. make it dependent on him. caged by him, n' no one else can steal it away this time.

maybe, this reads as gibberish to some, but i really love how both bruce n' jonathan have animal analog / name in their aliases. bruce's is more apperent, bc well, batman lol. he even dress up as this. crane's case is more subtitle, but still, the scarecrow. even if he supposed to scare said birds away, he keeps them as pets as offten as we see bats hanging inside bruce's herocave lol. those animals also suit their personalities to a degree. the only other animal, that i can see crane as be a possum lol. sharp teeth, always hissing, long rat tail, but despite the ragged apperance, they are the only mamal that cannot get rabies bc of their body temperature, even tho by looking at it, you'd think that it surely would have that disease, haha. that's kinda very crane. he tends to subvert expectations, but in a strange ways.

an' well, where bruce can step down to extremes, n' i don't mean putting crane's scawny ass back into asylum, i mean also consider other methods of keeping him declawed. including trapping him inside his cave / basement. still, i feel like for jon's those said extremes are default line of thinking. socially inept, distrustful n' lonely, it would make sense for him to assume, that he can only co-exist with batman, if he will lock him up n' be the only one, who has a key to his prison. generally, it always seems that while jon's views on things n' his way of persiving / feeling affection are twisted, it's also pretty sad too. technically, he doesn't have any frame of referance here. of affection, that is returned n' not played as a joke at his expense. an' being humilated by the bat in such manner would sting way harder, than his high school crush rejecting him. he'd also would have that yandere u-turn. but not in like 'if i can't have you none one has'. more like 'i really want to have you, so i'd do every terrible thing in the book to make it possible'. well, almost 'every'. i feel like there be things, that jonathan *most versions of him, anyways* just kinda won't do. he does have some class, after all.

overall tho, i do love jon as that needy 'creep' archetype *which is pretty much a canon in old comics too*, who would kidnap / do awful things to a guy he likes, simply bc he has no idea what else he can do with him. at most times, he's that meme of 'idk how to hit on him, so he has to die'. meanwhile, bruce thinks that if you feed a stray bird enough, it might consider staying or well, not being as troublesome as it usually is.

in some timelines, this even might work out, who knows.

less so jonathan's side of things, since i feel like he would end up screwing his own plan over. i even have a lil drafty thing for a fic with similar premise, but it's for some other time. atm. just lil art, while i'm working on bigger things, haha. gotta store all these bits / concepts somewhere, so that i don't forget that they exist.)

[blurryfce300]

i need to get these thoughts out of my brain before i explode okay

so clancy huh? it’s quite a bit more violent than i think any of us were expecting for the final dema story album, isn’t it? not in terms of the music but really in terms of where it tells us the story is headed. and it feels odd to me that the supposed end of this story is centered arøund fire and absolute destruction. like youve got clancy (whø i will be calling tyler før the sake of simplicity but he is also clancy i have a whole post about that) whose main goal currently is to recruit from inside dema and destroy it. then the character who we’ve seen as the leader of the rebellion, the torchbearer (josh) is standing off to the side? he’s just in tyler’s periphery, hence him being blurred in every promotional image we’ve had minus the apple music ones.

so tyler wants complete and total destruction of dema, or at least of its structure. he wants revenge. the problem with this is that he is trapped in tunnel vision so badly that he døesn’t see what’s happening to him. “i fly by the dangerous bend symbol” the dangerous bend symbol is there tø warn yøu that you have a high chance of making a serious mistake, and in some defintions, a common mistake. tyler is ignoring every warning sign being shoved in his face from every direction, and it’s turning him into what he wants to take døwn. he’s using the same methods the bishops use (psyhokinesis) to recruit peøple, which is alsø sømething the banditos never did. they dø nøt gø intø dema and recruit, they ønly help thøse whø already want to escape.

tyler says in overcompensate that he’s døne running, but this is a blatant lie. he’s going back to trench, the place where he ran from the things he is fighting against. he’s using psychokinesis to trick himself into thinking he’s done running.

so what do i think will happen? simple. tyler is going to continue to ignore every warning sign and play into the cycle, he’s going to førget who he was and become blurry again, and the cycle will repeat. i believe what we are seeing in clancy is høw the cycle usually ends and restarts itself. tyler finds psychokinesis and gets so obsessed with destruction and thinking he’s a weapon now that he becomes the very thing he thinks needs to be destroyed.

there are two songs on clancy that corroborate this. “backslide” and “snap back”. backslide means to relapse into bad habits. i think that clearly says tyler will slip back into blurry, and he will stay there for a bit, until “snap back” where someone cømes to help him “snap øut” øf this low point, øf this mindset of destruction. and even if that does happen, it won’t be an instant fix. it will be hard to cøme back after what has happened and pivot to a different direction.

nøw, løøking back at this from a non-lore perspective and one more based in what the story represents as a whole, destroying the things yøu hate abøut yourself isn’t that great, nøw is it? yeah you don’t like these things, but just outright trying to eliminate them is eliminating a part of yourself, and that døesn’t sound gøød. so what is the better solution to this? acceptance and understanding. learning to live with the parts you hate rather than total destruction.

but i think we need to see this total destruction as a show of the incorrect path for tyler and for the story, before someone else cømes in to rescue him. the banditos are representative of your friends, family, yøur support networks. tyler is ignoring them, choosing to fight this battle alone, and this is not the correct way to go about this, but it’s sømething we need to see happen. it’s a message of what not to dø, and we need to see høw bad øf a path it is to ensure that message is heard.

tldr: tyler/clancy’s path of destruction is VERY bad, he is going to fall back into blurry again and the cycle will repeat unless he allows øthers to help him change cøurse. but he’s ignoring every warning sign, and in the end, this is sømething we need to see happen to him.

[thevindicativevordan]

Batman: Caped Crusader S1 Review

Normally not a guy I write a whole lot about, but I finished watching S1 last night and decided I would share my thoughts.

Cutting right to the chase I found this mediocre. Trapped in the shadow of it's elder brother it fails at living up to being a spiritual successor, or charting it's own path. Changes made feel like token efforts done simply for changes sake, but with the exception of Harley, frequently feel like downgrades from what BTAS did. Rapid fire thoughts:

Pilot was easily the worst episode even though I was won over on Ricci's Penguin on account of her great performance

Clayface episode was good, no surprise considering Rucka wrote it, and struck me as a preview for what Reeves may have planned for his Batman sequel given the rumors Clayface will appear in that

Dug the Catwoman episode, but it’s hurt by how they basically did Golden Age Catwoman in BTAS. Nothing new here, Selina is a wealthy heiress like in BTAS who has a one sided romantic interest in Batman. Sure her BTAS incarnation was an animal rights activist but the foundation is the same. Given Brubaker's involvement I wish they had gone with her Post Crisis origin of being poor and stealing to survive. Least she loses her money by the end, maybe they’ll go in a different direction with her. Good idea to do the mandatory origin here, least it keeps the clichés all in one episode. I did love the Catmobile!

Firebug was eh, don’t get what the point was in changing him other than to keep in line with the Golden Age aesthetic.

Harley Episode was good! Wasn’t sure how a Jokerless Harley would work but they did actually manage to keep her sympathetic nature, and make her feel like a legit threat. Her victims were scumbag billionaires which made me sympathize with her motives if not her methods. Knew moments before they did it that they were going to homage Harley's "death" in Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, having Babs and Harley together was too tempting a target to pass up.

That was Papa Midnite in the Gentleman Ghost episode right? Cool deep cut, people were clamoring for Batman to show up in MAWS but Superman would be a better fit for this show than Batman would be for MAWS honestly. Reusing Fleschier Lois' design for one of the Gotham reporters got a chuckle out of me. Didn’t expect them to go with actual ghosts, that at least is a marked change from BTAS where everything had a “realistic” explanation.

Episode 7 had an… interesting moral. Didn’t expect anyone to make an episode in the year of our Lord 2024 about how the bleeding heart liberal (Babs) who opposes the system is wrong and the principled conservative who sees things in black and white (Gordon) is right. Especially not one with Rucka on the writing team.

Episode 8 was fine, since they included all the Robins except Tim I’m curious if Tim will end up being the one who becomes Robin (if anyone ever does). Otherwise I don’t get why Timm was not able to use Nocturne back during BTAS if this is what he wanted to do with her, she’s an energy vampire like Parasite. No blood. Maybe his old design was too horny for the censors? This Nocturna is clearly Wednesday Adams

Onomatopoeia doesn't work, his gimmick simply doesn't translate well outside of comics

Take on Two-Face here is inferior to BTAS. He’s not as interesting or sympathetic, I feel indifferent to him. They made him corrupt but didn’t do anything interesting with it, frankly it feels like a missed opportunity that they copied the DCAU approach where Harvey was friends with Bruce but never worked with Batman. Because this Harvey was corrupt, the friendship between Bruce and Harvey feels fake (and presumably given how cold this Bruce is, it was). Way to go would’ve been to either flip the reason Harvey gets scarred, and have some relative of an innocent he put away be the one to scar him, or have his corruption be a result of his and Batman’s failure to achieve meaningful results, with Harvey giving into despair before finding his courage again in the worst possible way. For that reason I didn’t find his death to be moving or emotionally impactful at all.

Arkham Asylum actually looking nice was a design choice I approved of. Makes sense that people would be assigned there or that it wouldn’t immediately be written off as an Asylum from Hell.

Why does Timm or whoever keeps pushing for him, love Rupert Thorne? Thorne is a boring bad guy, a generic mobster that Batman should crush with ease.

When it comes to Batman himself I enjoyed his characterization, and the performance of Hamish Linklater.

They leaned into this Batman being a sociopath, his unsettling declaration to Alfred as a child that he was going to make the criminals pay, and ordering Alfred to help him was chilling. Every time Alfred tried to give him advice or protect him, this Batman reacted with either cold dismissal or outright anger. Made for a good difference from both the DCAU, where the two would trade quips and clearly had a warm relationship, and the mainline where it's been outright canonized that Bruce viewed Alfred as his second father.

Too bad it looks like they’re already moving towards a more traditional take on the relationship for S2. Would've enjoyed seeing this Batman remain cold and sociopathic and having to go up against the Joker

Enjoyed seeing how uncomfortable Batman was with talking to other people, he sucked at "comforting" Babs after Harley appeared to die. Even though he has the compassion DCAU Batman had, he's somehow worse at expressing it.

Linklater did a great job differentiating the two personalities vocally. Loved when Bruce was confronting Harvey in Arkham in the finale, and when Harvey slipped into his "Two-Face" voice, Bruce used his "Batman" voice in response. Lot of Conroy in Linklater's performance which is no knock against him.

Since everyone is going to compare the two

Both are similar in a lot of ways: TCC puts a lot of focus on the supporting cast in the GCPD as does MAWS with the Daily Planet.

Lois and Babs basically serve as the deuteragonists of their respective shows.

Both include references to the wider DCU and poach villains from other heroes Rogues Galleries.

Both genderbend a villain and racebend a bunch of other characters.

Both do some dramatic changes to the villains in general, and the villains are generally the weakest part of the shows.

Both even take a lot from the DCAU, although TCC is more indebted to the DCAU than MAWS is.

Of the two though, I think MAWS is far superior. It’s got a stronger take on it’s lead, it’s got a stronger worldbuilding foundation, and the changes it makes feel like they have a purpose that feeds into the story of Krypton whereas TCC changes feels like token efforts to differentiate it from BTAS. Of the two TCC definitely got a bigger budget, especially in the fight scenes, but surprisingly there was some shoddy CGI there like what we see at times in MAWS.

I’m curious to find out which of the two ends up having the bigger impact on their respective characters. My hunch is MAWS will be more influential going forward, particularly on the Daily Planet crew.

Side note but it's ironic how everyone was doomposting about MAWS being a "Lois Lane show" when of the two it's CC who frequently ends up feeling like a GCPD show guest starring Batman. MAWS steadfastly puts Superman at the center of everything, whereas here the Gordons (Babs and Jim) feel more central to the show

Give it a C, it's a fine enough way to kill an afternoon if you're a Batman fan, but with all the Batman content out there I can't recommend it that highly. Next season we’ve got the Joker judging by the post season tease, which is probably going to be a fairly straightforward adaption of The Man Who Laughs given Brubaker is the head writer. If we get a Golden Age “serious” Joker that at least would spice things up. Hearing a Joker with a deep voice startled me I must admit.

[sbtorms]

Y'all know how Sunsetter is, like... my Underswap take of sorts? Well, I've recently been working on ideas for an Underfell take of sorts as well, with my own little twists.

Well, it's... kinda an Underfell take. Just a bit different in... a lot of ways.

I made up the name as I'm typing this, because I didn't have a name beforehand.

RED HAZE: Tale Of The Fallen

(or just "Red Haze")

This take has a lot of differences from the usual interpretation, including changing appearances... more than just details and clothing.

(Do note that the main cast would have different names from their Undertale counterparts. But since I can't think of any ideas for now, and also to prevent confusion, I'm just using the original names.)

Unlike in Undertale, there is no barrier keeping monsterkind from going to the surface. Hell, there isn't a mountain at all. Instead, monsterkind resides in a magically imbued forest, with only one way to leave, while entering gets one endlessly lost.

Asgore simply is biding his time, getting the souls of seven humans, to become godlike, and to wipe out humanity. No monster tries to go after Asgore, or even question his methods. Some act this way out of fear of what he could do, others that are for him and for his plan, and then the few that don't care either way.

The "routes" are named somewhat differently from what people usually call Undertale's

Path of Solace - ("Pacifist" Route) Path of Choices - ("Neutral" Routes) Path of Exploit - ("Genocide" Route)

“* You brush aside the agony.”

- this take's replacement for being "filled with determination"

AGONY is a haze that leaks from broken souls, with more of it depending how much negative energy one has when they die. It mentally and physically affects those who breathe it in. Naturally, it opposes the power of Determination, as that power does to it, destroying each other until one remains or there's nothing left. But, with enough focus, perhaps one could use both as one. Such a concept would be a focus of the Path of Exploit, specifically regarding both Undyne and Frisk.

Time for the cast!

Frisk and Chara

Admittedly, I didn't think much besides design-wise for these goobers. It's probably just that Frisk is more tired than usual and Chara was used as a sacrifice to the monsters in a failed attempt at a peace offering by humanity, actually got sick instead of it being planned, and yada-yada Asriel soul absorption and death. ...okay, maybe I thought a little for Chara. But not too much for Frisk.

The shirt patterns here are probably obviously Yumi Nikki inspired, despite the fact that I know nothing about the game itself besides some characters, lol.

The Dreemurrs (Toriel, Asgore, and Asriel)

Similar to canon Underfell, Toriel is what started this entire take concept to begin with. The idea stemmed from "what if the dreemurr family had biblically accurate angel imagery (eyes and wheels) instead of devil imagery (goats, fire, trident, y'know)?" And then I added "black sheep" into that, so that's what I ended up with.

Toriel is very fearful of humans, instead of a caretaker, running away and attacking when cornered. She uses what power she has to keep herself alone, not wanting to be emotionally tied and hurt again. (She's my favorite in the cast :3)

Asgore has been particularly affected by the AGONY of the many fallen children that died by his hand, becoming almost a tyrant, with only some of his original personality fading in and out.

Asriel is... actually not too different from canon Asriel, considering he died before everything really kicked off.

Flowey is a small mass/hivemind of bundled flowers, tied together like a "rat king". Each flower has only small snippets of past memories as Asriel, as well its own "personality", splitting Undertale Flowey’s personality into six pieces. They try to help Frisk get through the area, due to how unsafe it is. Whether they have their own goals remains to be seen.

The Blooks are shadow spirits instead of simple ghosts.

Napstablook is somewhat the same as in Undertale, other than the visual changes. Though, due to the circumstances, they’d have a bit more of an issue with their emotional state, bottling up their feelings, usually until such bursts when they can’t take it anymore.

Mettaton possesses many types of machinery, instead of just his singular body. In a way, this is due to the fact that he cannot decide on a single one.

The Ruins Dummy ghost is instead possessing a box and works as how items travel between boxes throughout the areas.

Maddie (aka "Mad Dummy" or "Mad Mew Mew" in Undertale, Maddie is sorta just a fandom nickname i think) basically acts like canon, but also a Mimic in a way, also possessing a box.

There would also be a secret boss fight against both Mettaton and Maddie, replacing Undertale's "Mad Mew Mew" one, with one where the two are trying to share the same body. The goal is to get the two to get along and work together… or just straight up destroy the body.

The Skelebros are instead lost spirits, seemingly of their original counterparts in some way...

Papyrus's goal is the same as his original, but instead in hopes of finally passing on, instead of joining a "Royal Guard". In reality, he knows he's never gonna pass on, but is in constant denial of such.

Sans, however, seems to have accepted and adapted to his “life”, and just wants to follow after his brother with whatever happens to him. He also likes dark humor, because of course he does.

The "Royal Guard" replacement is instead a cult that Undyne leads (and used to be led by Gerson), with a focus on a so-called prophecy, and using AGONY for what they see as a good thing. While they seem to be against King Asgore, it's more or less that they want him back to how he was before everything happened.

Undyne is a hooded guide throughout Waterfall (or whatever it'd be called in the take). She'd still be a fishlike monster, perhaps siren-like or anglerfish-like... or both. She protects the harmless from a gang of young monsters, led by Monster Kid.

Alphys is still the Royal Scientist, but also some form of background security in a way. She has an abundance of hidden cameras all throughout the Underground. She uses her vision across the areas for many reasons. Blackmail, catching traitors in the act, sometimes just... watching. Some monsters, especially many in the cult, have become evasive enough to miraculously avoid her gaze.

Her appearance is a bit more more based on that one beta design by Tuyoki.

[toothlespoggers]

I think instead of focusing on the grass comment we should be collectively analysing this

The grass isn’t what’s important here, it’s the fact that there was a sans mitosis, unlimited sans glitch joke. And the fact that Papyrus and sans don’t have baby pictures, they don’t have childhood photos.

I’m not saying it confirms Gaster or anything. I’m just saying.. “what do you two think?” Sans’s lab, sans’s blood. Their abilities being vastly different to all the other monsters. (I still believe Papyrus and sans are just supposed to be unexplainably whacky and silly and of course the very nature of them allows them todo crazy stuff, but toby foxes writing style shows that there’s always a funny side and then a lore side to everything he does, even if it’s not conclusive or super edgy, we know for a fact there is something going on here)

I don’t think they’re from deltarune because again.. it’s supposed to be a seperate thing, toby has said he wants it to be seperate. However, sans and Papyrus’s nature showcases how they’re so spontaneous and they are the method of which most of the jokes take place, not to mention how undertale is often filled with references to other games.

It’s likely that they have connections to Gaster that Papyrus can’t remember, it’s highly likely whatever happened to them both sans was either unable to take baby photos, uncomfortable by the fact (we know sans has always been like a parental figure to Papyrus by the comment on him being papyruses mother, and it not changing very much) something either happened that made it so sans wanted to leave behind his old life and start fresh in Snowdin, making sure Papyrus wouldn’t remember the past or his life before then. (We know Papyrus is younger than sans by a sizeable gap because Papyrus doesn’t know a lot of the things other older monsters know)

Basically, it narrows it down to 3 possibilities. 1. Sans’s previous life in the underground, likely in newhome far away from Snowdin was dangerous, something happened there..possibly relating to Gaster that caused sans to move to Snowdin with his little brother and start a new life, having removed all traces of his past as to protect Papyrus and not be associated with whatever happened previously.

(maybe it had something todo with gasters disappearance)

we know that the underground is much bigger than it appears in game and that Snowdin is on the outskirts of everything, since the ruins is really far away from newhome. So it makes sense that they’d move there, no one would recognise them, and sans still has obvious ties to the capital and of course hotland.

2. Sans and Papyrus were made by Gaster and stuff happened somewhat handplates style, leading to sans erasing papyruses memory so he wouldn’t be haunted by his past and allow him to start a new (this is unlikely due to it being too predictable and Toby’s writing style contradicting this as he likes to subvert expectations)

or 3. A slightly less outlandish one but it still makes sense considering Toby’s writing style and everything that’s been established with undertale and deltarune, with deltarune coming first and undertale being second.

deltarune has 1 ending, your choices don’t matter. The roaring is probably almost certainly going to occur, there’s a bunch of sketchy dangerous stuff going on, everything is controlled by the player or Gaster or whatever. It’s sketchy.

sans and Papyrus have evidence to being from deltarune, sans knows about the set path deltarune is on, he built a machine to escape deltarune and go to undertale, a universe where your choices do matter, monsters had magic they can use, and they were safe underground.

(Sans probably didn’t know about the genocide when he was researching this, which is why when they arrive he starts studying everything about the world and preparing himself to defend the underground when he finds out genocide is possible. But his actions in undertale suggest that he’d much rather take the chance of a happy ending and heaps of replay of Papyrus living his life then the one ending they have in deltarune.)

this explains all the things that come from deltarune and why sans treats the human differently to other monsters and knows more about the world and things that happen then in the rest of the world. It explains why sans ends up so happy after the winter alarm clock and why he makes so many friends.

sans and Papyrus came from the worst case scenario, Papyrus doesn’t remember because he was too young, sans ends up making friends and having fun in the underground and let’s loose on the pacifist ending, everyones happy and comfortable, sans continues to keep the world In check to ensure their world never ends, and tries to avoid the worst case scenario as much as possible.

He doesn’t tell Papyrus the truth because he knows if he did tell him where they came from he wouldn’t understand the dangers that awaited them in deltarune, and just want to be there because of the surface without understanding the greater issue.

and the papyrus and sans from deltarune are the sans and Papyrus that existed in the underground BEFORE the deltarune Papyrus and sans went there, and so it’s a time loop. Because obviously there would be a sans and Papyrus from that universe to, so it makes sense that that universes sans would be weary of the genocide ending and being trapped underground and study to become a scientist so he can construct a way to transport, they move to deltarune at the same time that the deltarune Papyrus and sans moves to undertale, so no one notices, bingo bongo that’s why sans and Papyrus in deltarune are new and recognise kris and interact whilst simultaneously undertale Papyrus and sans being new and everything working out.

this explains all the evidence we have in deltarune for the Papyrus and sans being from undertale, and the evidence for undertale Papyrus and sans being from deltarune.

it’s a time loop, that’s why they have no baby pictures, that’s why they’re silly that’s why theyre associated with timelines and quantum physics, that’s why the sans doors and sans boxes are called that, they exist in two places at once, they do whacky stuff. It explains the ties to both things, explains the ties between deltarune Gaster and undertale Gaster, bingo bongo.

Switcharoo

[tennessoui]

T&t Anakin being a little bitch right now lol. He is throwing such a tantrum. Fuck ahsoka! Fuck his troops! Fuck the ppl that rely on him! ONE person made him upset so he's gonna fuck off forever. You've really mastered his personality. He certainly would blow everything up over one person (rots cough cough)

(2/2) I don't know why but I genuinely thought before this chapter that Anakin was actually going to think about his actions and what he was doing. From your tidbits I knew he decided to leave and I've no idea why I was under the impression it was a decision that Anakin had poured over and given the correct amount of contemplation. Like maybe he thinks he's not fit to be a Jedi because he'd chosen the path of revenge? Nope! He just wants to hurt Obi-Wan in the meanest way possible! Man-child Anakin activated!

oo ho ho this is such an interesting ask/reaction!! one of the reasons i really liked writing this last chapter is because anakin is just absolutely spiraling apart and as much as he can admit to himself that he feels betrayed and lost and empty and burning with rage, he also doesn't take the next step to admit that maybe any decisions he makes right now aren't going to be of sound mind and any new information he learns is going to be processed through that lens of anger and betrayal

i think him leaving the order can be put down to him having lost trust in obi-wan - and obi-wan is the order for him, obi-wan represents the entire order. there's no way he feels like he can stay because obi-wan deceived him and obi-wan chose to put the order above anakin ("when did anakin become less than his utmost important thing?") - and he is angry and he wants to hurt obi-wan ("i want to see his eyes when i tell him it's because of him") but he's also at least a little bit afraid of what he's capable of doing right now - more than representing the order, obi-wan was like the center of his entire world ("what do planets orbit when their sun implodes? nothing. they burn too.") and now he has no center at all because he's that mad at obi-wan. not even just for lying, but i think because the lie proves to him that he's never been loved by the person he has loved the most.

i really like examining the way anakin loves through fics like these and this one in particular because i think it's so....honestly, like. wild crazy. he's so consumed by rage that he was lied to and hurt by his one true love, obi-wan, that he can't see the bigger picture when master windu and master yoda immediately can put aside their emotions and think of what it means for the chancellor that obi-wan will not be undercover as hardeen to protect him ("we are at war, Anakin! This is bigger than your individual feelings of the matter.") and thats true!! they are not in any way wrong but anakin doesnt have the capability of ever seeing the situation like this because he loved obi-wan too much, was too attached, can't let go of what he feels for him--be it anger or love--for even a moment to consider the bigger picture

which he's never been able to do in this fic. i mean i think this is almost the natural conclusion to the tantrum anakin had at the very beginning of the fic where he went back to the past in the first place, though i wouldn't necessarily call that a tantrum.

except then he worked through his grief and pain and anger in the past, with the help of young obi-wan, and came back....but now he is filled with grief and pain and anger and he has to go away again to deal with it because the support system he learned to lean on when obi-wan died (the order and obi-wan) can no longer be trusted because obi-wan can no longer be trusted and the entire order is now to be held in suspicion

tldr the premise of the fic is really that he threw a tantrum and ran away from all his responsibilities like ahsoka and his men and the war; he's just doing it again but the target of his grief and rage have changed slightly and his methods of running away are different but this is all very influenced by my understanding of anakin's character and his capacity to accidentally and purposefully hurt those he loves