#the thing is. i try to be positive so hard and ik in general my life is pretty good

[gibbearish]

> be me

> never send asks bc im scared ill mess something up

> type up lots of asks but never end up sending them

> finally type up an ask i feel like i can send

> check over it a dozen times to make sure im not missing anything

> send

> didn't actually read urls right

> sent ask to wrong person entirely

> mfw

[ebbarights]

.

[rat-rambles]

Ok Alastor shippers of all sorts, I'm going to put in my two cents and before I get into I'm a pro shipper all around just don't be mean to each other and tags are there for a reason.

My credentials: I'm an gray ace, aro person who's been around Fandom a very long time. Personally I've been initiated with the “but al is ace aro so you can't ship him” discourse and first off that's not true both because we can date -I Have a long term Partner- and because I've explored a lot of my queer identity through Fandom and fanfics and I think others should get the chance to do the same. I'm sure a lot of people will learn they’re ace aro because of alastor. That being said ik a lot of you writers out there aren't ace aro and are new to the topic so I'm going to go over some of my personal suggestions of how you could make Canon compliant works. (And if you do any or find any please send to me I'd love to see it)

Oblivious Alastor

Canonically this man doesn't know he's an ace in the hole. And I don't believe an egomaniac like him would assume that there's anything “different” about himself. ik when I was a baby ace I thought everyone was just being dramatic basically before realizing I was the exception. I can see this going 2 ways.

Radiostatic (pre show): vox is obviously completely smitten with al and al sees dating a more powerful overlord as an advantage(which vox in the past was the more powerful of the two). And Al starts getting slowly more and more uncomfortable and vox gets pushy in a very manipulative way.

Radioapple: enemies to friends to lovers? After Al and Luci become close friends, Luci starts to catch feelings for Al and Al agrees to date him seeing as he is fond of him and he's a very powerful ally so why wouldn't Al date him? As the relationship progresses they’re both confused by Alastor's behavior. Luci tries to be respectful. You know maybe he's just very against pda. And al doesnt understand why he's not feeling the things he's meant to.

I can see Al reverse heteronormativity- ing his way into assuming he's gay because he's NOT straight.

Malicious intent

Same as the last one except Al knows he doesn't have feelings for them like that and is trying to be toxic and uses them. IE what if Al was a gold digger actually.

Maybe I am in love?

Al actually thinks that he MUST be feeling a romantic connection because this is the closest he's ever been to someone and once again, gets steadily more confused as he realizes what he and his partner are experiencing is different.

All of these can end in nice queer platonic bliss and I think any story where Al and his partner discover he's ace after establishing the relationship is inherently interesting.

Last note some ace vocabulary

Ace and aro are a spectrum. Typically with ace people they will self identify as either sex positive, sex negative, or sex neutral. With Al it's generally head cannoned that he's sex negative but that's not explicitly Cannon and sex positive and neutral aces are valid.

Sex negative: is self explanatory it's what everyone thinks aces are; I don't want sex ever the idea grosses me out ect.

Sex neutral: is when someone doesn't have the desire for sex but isn't repulsed by it either. If they are in a relationship and their partner wants to have sex they’re open to it but don't expect initiation on their part.

Sex positive: people have a hard time understanding this because it's the seperating of the need for sex from the want. Typically if a sex positive ace were to never have sex again they'd die happy but if they have a willing partner they are happy to participate. It builds intimacy. It feels good, it's nice but it's not the same as being allo and having that cardinal lust.

note: please know what type your head cannoning Al as in your works when writing it, although people of course can change which they feel they align with, it's important to know how he's feeling about it.

I'm not as familiar with aro terminology but like with ace it's more about the drive the need the anguish. Al wouldn’t in cannon crave romantic connection.

Like with ace it's not actually cannon what type of aro he is some aro people are completely repulsed by the idea of romantic relationships or they only like it in theory (which playing around with the idea of Al liking a relationship in theory but not in practice could be a lot of fun.)

The gray romantic umbrella are aro people who can have romantic attraction to some degree. They’re still aro you can head cannon Al as it but please do a little research into which one you think your version of Al would identify with there quite a few so I'll spare the list here.

Demi romantic is when someone can develop romantic attraction for very specific people, very rarely. These people won't be on Bumble but might fall for someone after knowing them for a few years (or an indeterminate amount of time, my timeline was a year and a half I shit you not) a lot of you are looking for that.

As for kink. Lots of queer people especially are into kink because it's intimate, it's physical, it requires trust but it's not actually inherently sexual a lot of the time. And we do know that Al likes torturing and being dominant so yeah he'd be kinky that's completely canon compliant.

At the end of the day Al is ace aro in the show and that's what counts. Have fun be creative, explore the depths of your queer little minds and please be nice to each other.

(and if any of you make works related to this please please please send them to me thanks)

[quimichi]

MATCH UP INFO <3

Or get to know me whatever you want lol

Antonia, 18, cis female, she/her, german, medical assistant student, infp, pisces, hufflepuff

EYES: Green, blueish, grayish lol HEIGHT: 1,58m, 5'4(?) OTHER: natrually pale, lots of moles, no tattoos, natrual eye bags, fox eyes, small dimples, full lips, small mouth, long lashes, resting bitch face lol, high nose bridge, long brown hair with highlights, wavy/curly, super shiny, pretty skinny, average curves, long neck lol, no make up, long nails, small hands STYLE: comfy and oversize, but in summer i wear more dresses and skirts, more girly, bit also still girly with oversized clothes, it's grunge like but i honestly wear any style if I like it

FIRST IMPRESSION: people say i look younger than i am, I'm very polite and kind by nature but i seem like that 120% more at the beginning than later lol

POSITIVE TRAITS: I'm polite or at least try to be, I have this helping syndrome I always need to help, I'm very open minded and I like to try new things, there are specific patients who adore me so ig I'm really likable-, even the complicated ones like me?? that's a compliment ngl, my friends say im really funny

NEGATIVE TRAITS: always sleepy, sometimes really lazy, very sarcastic and i have a dark humor, small anger issues but i control them really really well, many things can annoy me easily tho, many people say I'm too quite but in reality I just give no fuck lol I'm actually really loud, like I'm both and both is depending on the situation not good--, i talk a lot and yeah-bad in class-ik when to shut up tho

LIKES: Wind, rain, the night, stars, music, video games, sleep, my cornflakes lol, watermelon and strawberries, my super soft bed, family and friends, snow, winter in general, fog cause pretty, horror movies, ducks and chickens, especially my plush duck, cacti oh and palm trees

DISLIKES: pushy people, no manners, disrespectful behavior, pineapples cause idk not my thing, strong smells, beards cause--no, alcohol, I'm strictly against that for a good reason

LOVE LANGUAGE: Quality time (giving & receiving)

DEAL BREAKERS: the basics lol, no addictions, no job, bad temper, bad behavior, bad hygiene and so on

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE...kind, respectful, honest and loyal, the basics...I have low standards

TRIVIA ♡

@ i have asthma @ look, ik I'm pretty, nothing wrong with confidence, but having random people telling me 4 times i look like a pinterest model made me so so happy @ I'm REALLY good at parking backwards lol @ i rarely go out, like i don't need to i love it at home but if i go out i also like it more peaceful @ i love parking lot dates, getting food and sitting in the car for hours talking, my fav @ its hard to scare me, or make me feel really disgusted. I can look at all things, even smell and i wouldn't be fazed by it at all. But touching is a no-- @ super scared of deep waters like--what if something is underneath me??? @ i love plants but plants don't love me @ i can draw really well-i think so at least @ hardcore dreamer @ I'm not really touchy. Like i don't need physical affection that much or at all. Cuddles aren't really my thing, they're ok sometimes--- @ no matter when and where, if i wanna sleep I'm out in 10 minutes or less @ I'm 18, in germany it's legal to drink beer with 16 and any other alcoholic drinks with 18. I never drank one sip and never will. Super scared of alcohol, i feel very uncomfortable with it around me. Drunk people scare me so much that i wanna distance myself. It can even get to a point where i will constantly distance myself from that person so much that our contact breaks, if they abuse alcohol.

APPERANCE

[meowzfordayz]

hashira comfort you

Author’s Note: now to name this thing… 😆

hashira comfort you

Hashira x Reader

Word Count: ~1,300

CW: mild sexual content, platonic, traumatic references

Emergency Request Fulfilled: Hopefully it's alright if I request a Hashira (not separately) x reader who's just been feeling like giving up and all her efforts are worthless no matter how hard she tries. Just sumthin where the Hashira notice something is off with the Hashira!reader and make attempts to comfort her. If it's alright to ask I feel like maybe making the Hashira reader use a fork of positive emotion breathing or a breathing type of us generally positive to further suggest how something is bothering the reader- of course it's all up to you I'm totally okay if the reader is just someone being taken care of at the butterfly mansion or a relative of the leader of demon slayer (I'm so horrible with requests I apologize)

~faqs~

Decided to write this as hcs bc my brain doesn’t have the power atm to try and write a fanfic w/ 10 (9 Hashira + 1 Reader) characters 😆

Actually, Idk if my brain would ever have the power for that

I mean, sure I can manage a decent amount of supporting characters, but juggling 10 characters of equal importance ?? 😵

Anywho-

I feel like the Hashira are super in tune w/ each other, as well as totally oblivious They’re super in tune w/ each other in that they’re all phenomenal warriors, and thus have the necessary perception to quickly notice when something’s “off”

But they don’t really all know each other super well? And they don’t have time to just hang out regularly (unless they’re simultaneously slaying demons hah)

They also technically don’t all get along lmao

So if you’re feeling out of sorts, then they’d certainly pick up on your feelings, but most of them wouldn’t immediately know precisely what to do or say aka how to help you

I’m looking at you, Giyuu 😃

Okay real talk tho Giyuu’s been through a lot (they all have *sigh*)— Ik his depicted personality and trauma runs deeper than superficial emotional constipation 🥺

Assuming they all at least tolerate you, their approaches to cheering you up would differ vastly

Gyomei would do his best to convince you to meditate w/ him

“You underestimate yourself. Perhaps, reflecting on why you feel inferior may reassure you that you are, in fact, not?”

He’s wise, but is he helpful? 😬

“Himejima-san, I am grateful for your consideration, but I am unsure pondering my anxiety will relieve me of my anxiety.”

“Nonetheless, you are always welcome to sit beside me.”

Bc he’s still patient and generous ☺️

Pardon the imagery, but my first and only thought about Obanai attempting to comfort you is: he throws Kaburamura at you 😅

Hear me out!

His heart’s in the right place!

What goes around comes around, and if he was feeling low, then he’d prob appreciate having Kaburamura cuddling him

But like, the concept of asking for snake-being-thrown-at-you consent did not occur to him prior

If you’re cool w/ snakes, then Ig he’s lowkey helpful?

But if you’re not so cool w/ snakes… well… at least he’ll send you a letter via crow apologizing for his blunder (100% too embarrassed to apologize to your face)

My bias may be showing, but Mitsuri would likely be the most consciously comforting

The term comfort isn’t foreign to her, and she’s more than happy to pamper you

Whether pampering means simply listening to you, walking w/ you, cooking for + eating w/ you

She knows confidence, belonging, and meaning aren’t nurtured—founded—overnight, so she figures she can at least lessen your tangible burdens to free up space for you to heal mentally

Maybe she lays on her complimentary remarks a little too thickly to be convincing, but you know she means well 💖

Shinobu… 💀

I kNOW SHE CAN BE LOVING AND GENTLE AND AFFECTIONATE

But she kicks ass too

And if she thinks you need an ass kicking to feel like yourself again, then she’ll absolutely kick your ass

Metaphorically and literally

Like a coach who pushes you juuust far enough so that you know they believe in you, buuut they’re still demanding 50 push ups from you (bc they believe in you)

“I fear I am not enough, Kocho-san.”

“Nonsense. Let us spar.”

????? “Spar?”

“So I can prove to you that you are enough!”

As provoking and playful as Shinobu can be, she wouldn’t go easy on you, and when you inevitably are able to match her pace

Well

You’re not content (you’re pissed at being goaded into impromptu training), but you do begrudgingly concede her point

#I knew you could do 50 push ups #now do another 50

Debating between going the classic Kyojuro route, or the other route

He genuinely wishes to see you smile — to know you are well

BUT C’MON THIS MAN IS KINDA CUTE AWKWARD 😶🥰

Classic Kyojuro conjures the perfect sentence to make you feel worthy

And knows your favorite flower(s), which he obvi brings to you

Classic Kyojuro might even unexpectedly tug you into a warm, rib crushing hug, bc he can tell that grounding you could be helpful

As for awkward Kyojuro…

If you think about it afterwards, his perfect sentence doesn’t make that much sense (i.e. inspirational quotes that are more dumb than inspiring if you bother rereading ‘em), but it sounded pretty and honest and bright, so heyo — better than nothing!

And he doesn’t bring you flowers, but he does offer you the remnants of his lunch (when I write the remnants I mean potentially ¼ of a bite), bc he knows eating can be difficult when feeling sad

He’ll still hug you, but instead of warm it’s HOT

Sweaty, too tight HOT

Not boner pressed against your thigh HOT

And he’ll keep hugging you until your heart rate settles bc #that’s what a good friend does, but wHoOpS how’s it going to settle when he’s literally suffocating you ?????

I was excited to get to Sanemi, bc I’m so fricking soft for this man

And then I realized he’s the top contender for the worst (at comforting) of the Hashira

You’re despairing? How about I never look at you again and create the biggest possible rift between us in case my existence harms you further?

#the Shinazugawa bros

Disclaimer: all my “slander” toward these beloved characters is meant entirely light heartedly

That being said, I recognize the heaviness of the themes and backstories present throughout Demon Slayer, but just uhh, take my “quips” as you might take the donut jokes 🍩

I’m now looking at you, Kyojuro 😃

If Obanai throws Kaburamura at you, then Sanemi asks, scowling, “How are you?”

And then disappears w/o waiting for your response

Bc apparently a halfway greeting is better than none?

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, and a halfway greeting from Sanemi a day… keeps the blues at bay?

Muichiro wouldn’t be the greatest at comforting you either, but not for lack of effort

For some reason, all I can brainstorm rn is that he’d hand you shiny rocks?

Which, I feel, is more Inosuke-esque

But Muichiro’s a child! So like, childish methods of comforting?

A kid hands you a shiny rock — wouldn’t that make you perk up? At least a tad?

Random tangent, but I was on the beach once collecting sea glass, and these kids started copying me, and then gave me all the sea glass they found

#that was a very heartwarming day

“Tokito-san, what is this?”

“A rock.”

“Yes.”

“For you. It may be valuable. Treat yourself to lunch.”

Do you sell it and buy yourself lunch, or do you keep and cherish the rock? 😭

AHAHA WE’RE AT GIYUU

This is def out of character, but I hc that he’d just randomly grab your hand

And hold it

For 1, maybe 2, breaths?

And then let go, nod, and leave

He’s… aloof, but he does understand that: comfort doesn’t mean what is easy for you—the person doing the comforting—it means doing what could be comforting for the person requiring comfort

Is having your hand held for 1-2 secs comforting?

Debatable

But is his sentiment sweet?

Very 💙

Sooo Idk whether to include Hina, Makio, and Suma w/ Tengen… let’s hc both ?!

Hina, Makio, and Suma + Tengen = a lot of EVERYTHING

Pestering as to why you’re doubting yourself, verbal reassurance that you’re amazing, physical company to alleviate loneliness, and if you request anything specific, you will receive that specific thing x 4 😌

Just Tengen?

I imagine he’d feel affronted that I “just Tengen”-ed him

All of the above x 1

He’d likely backhandedly comfort you, bc how could he ever comfort you w/o hyping himself up too?

God of Flashiness and Festivals? Turns out he’s God of Comforting too

Self proclaimed, ofc

[wannabemasterofwindintraining]

Hi yes sorry to bother really quick question though uhm when you draw a human head do you draw put the the uh the circle thing that displays the top the head and then draw a chin oooor no?

If not what do you start with when you draw someone? And also how do you draw hair? I love the way you draw it and I am literally struggling sm w/ my art style(?? Idk Ik i don like it much tho) atp and wanna know what you do when you draw...and you seem like yk what ur doing so... yaaaaa thank youu! :3

Haii don't worry you're not bothering at all ^_^

To answer your question well i don't really draw the full circle usually i just draw circle heads but when I'm not doing that i like to try n get the chin shape as I'm drawing the head

Like this

After that i like to finish Woking on the head before moving on to the body

It can sometimes be a problem when you start drawing the body n you realise that maybe you need to resize or move the guy so you'll have to erase the head you already finished but if you're drawing digitally you don't have to worry about it 👍

I usually finish the face then draw the hair n neck but the order doesn't matter do whatever you want

There's a lot of different ways to draw the body n you can use whatever technique is easier for u but for me i like to start w the shoulders n do some chest n back lines

They don't have to be accurate just a general shape to indicate the body type/pose you're doing

Once i add the arms i start doing some fixes to the body

The arms make it more coherent all together so you start to see what issues can be fixed in the general shape of the body or maybe even the position of the shoulders or the pose

Once the guy looks right you can hide all your hard work w some clothes

Then yea i just add some last details like clothes folds n stuff n also go back to fix some lines that don't look right just erase as much as u want till the guy looks decent enough

As for the hair i just do general shapes i can never figure out how to do the detailed hair with all the individual strands rendered so this is the best i can do

I have some general strand shapes i like to use every style gotta have one of these

I like to start w the bangs then draw the rest of the hair sometimes if the drawing is too tiny i won't draw the bangs at all just do whatever till u get a shape you like 👍

Also for the artstyle thing if you're not happy w how your art looks i advice trying new styles

For me i have my little lap rat blorbo who i draw every time i wanna try a new style or technique

Look at other artists n pick out certain aspects you like about their style n try to replicate it if you're vibing w the style or technique then good for u king(gender neutral) draw that all the time 👍

Don't worry about changing ur style either even after u found a style you like it's always fun to experiment w new stuff n who knows you might even develop a new style that u like even more

Just have fun bestie do whatever brings u joy

Anyways i talked too much be gay do spinjitzu or whatever ✌️

[starki1d]

(Old) PIKMIN 4 (demo) SPOILERS SOUND THE ALARM BWAAAAMMM BWAAAMMM🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨

Okay ik none of you care about my non art posts but can I ramble about dingo and the shepherd pls pls pls

It’s one thing to be a cocky confident dumbass, but it’s another to be a cocky confident dumbass with a soft spot. And while dingo’s soft spot for the shepherd is cute, what’s cuter is the reason why he likes the shepherd.

Dingo is unfamiliar with the shepherd’s cheery admiration towards him, especially after loosing against her. He is so used to being tough and cold and abiding by his training that when someone shows him genuine affection, he gets confused. The man does everything to set himself up beyond other people’s expectations. Things like avoid the newbie and do things all by himself are proud examples of that.

And if he were not to live up to those expectations, he would be considered a fraud, a hero that let many down. So why does the shepherd look up to him?

Because she’s no better.

While of course, the shepherd is nowhere near as flaunty and cold as dingo, she too strives to hold up to her expectations as captian, and does it in a similar foolish manner.

Case and point: the pikmin, and the pnf-404 critters in general.

In the shepherd’s literal introduction, you see her being scared by a small group of bulborb larva. Not bulborbs, but the baby kind. I get it, this is a new planet with new animals and creatures she hasn’t seen before, but these things are so pathetic and small that oatchi can kill them in one bite. This is essentially like a war veteran being scared of a cockroach. It doesn’t make it better that immediately after this, she pretends like it didn’t happen.

This happens again with possibly the only friendly thing on pnf-404, the pikmin.

And in later night dialogue logs, she denies of her fear of pikmin, and says she’ll prove she’s not scared…When she can touch one. (I’ve ran out of image slots and don’t have one on me so you’ll have to bear with me on this.)

The shepherd wants to be the best captian she can. Everyone enjoys her as captian not just because she has the skills of one, but because she has the personality of one as well. She wants to wager peace over civilizations, and is always worried if she isn’t trying hard enough. Not to mention she actually is very fond of dingo, always seeming to have hope in him. Out of all the rescue corp members you retrieve in the demo, dingo was the one she was sure would survive. And she lets him rest for as long as he needs, allowing him to rest longer than he actually needs to (lmao).

Dingo and the shepherd are both the most skilled on the team, and are very optimistic about their positions, yet they both share great flaws and are embarrassed about them. But they look up to each other despite the others flaws, and are amazed by each other’s abilities. A power duo if you will.

Too Long Didn’t Read; you are always more than your flaws.

Too Long Definitely Didn’t Read; dingo likes women who can kick his ass.

[gothmikasagf]

Hi! I’ve been following this blog for a bit and I love that you are having a HH phase, bc same. Can I get a matchup for the event?

★Gender and pref: I’m a he/she and choose how I present myself based on the setting bc I’m not that open with ppl (yeah, I think it’s important to express yourself but realistically that won’t get me far in certain settings in my country); no gender pref but I’m not too fond of some writing choices when it comes to women in Viv’s works, depends on a character though

★Style: kinda rockstar gf vibe? Sometimes softer colours too

★Personality, hobbies: I’m social and extroverted. Usually that leaves me as a leader of whatever group I’m in. I have a little bit of a hater in me, but I don’t show it if ppl don’t encourage it. I do like when it’s being enabled though. It’s not convenient when you’re in a position where ppl ask you for opinions and actually follow your guide, yk, if I manage an event I’m not going to go around shit talking everything. It feels nice to have someone who does that though, makes it easier to join in and not feel like a jerk (or at least be jerks together I guess??). I write my own songs and am in a band as a backup vocal. Kinda proud that it’s my band but I need to get better until I step up as anything more. I’m a bit of a perfectionist. I like to tease ppl if given the opportunity. Others say I’m flirty. Bold with it at that. I’m ambitious too. Kind of a big thing but I have npd (if you want to look it up without reading scientific papers, go on tumblr, bc the rest of the internet is filled with ‘demonic narcissism’ bullshit) and it influences the way I am. I care lots about my image and don’t have a ton of empathy. I don’t go kicking puppies, but it’s noticeable how I lack in this department. Sometimes people say I’m ’too nice to have it’ cause i do well with kids and do all the youth group volunteering. Also, I do some martial arts and other sports. Kinda sceptical of romance at this point cause I had lots of it and I don’t mix well with a lot of people, but maybe I could do something serious for once if I had the right person. I try to be responsible and respectful but I have no issue finding my place at a wild party or something. I'm pretty chill in general, but I can be soft-er if I want, like with children or if the few ppl I actually am close with (I've got many friend groups but I struggle to make meaningful connections) need me. Usually I just stay my highly analytical, laid back self and say my silly little comments every once in a while. Heard I’m pretty funny if I want to be. My love language is acts of service. I like small things and I do them a lot. I can do words too, but I don't care for them in return. Like, you can be an asshole (up to a limit, I know my worth) and it’s cool with me if I see you have your ways of caring like putting on a song I like in the car

★❤️&💔: love movies like Fight Club (my fav), American Psycho and Donnie Darko; hate sharks, they freak me out; my fav book is The Catcher in the Rye; hate it when people push me to open up and be emotional; love music and I unironically had a few guys play songs AT me and I actually like that too, tho I get why ppl clown on that

★My type: I like people who are more negative than me and aren't afraid to shittalk everything. Just saying whatever, not caring if they offend ppl (up to a point, some issues aren’t debatable ik). Don't really care for morality (to a certain point, again) if you're charismatic and fun to be around, I’m along for the ride and happy to support whatever you get yourself into. I think I would get along with someone who had a little npd too, I like to be able to relate to my partner a bit. If they work somewhat similarly, I don't have to struggle with understanding some stuff, bc I already know how to manage an ego or grandiose behavior. As for looks. Idk, I don’t have a set type. I think ppl that are bigger than me maybe? I’m pretty athletic so it’s not hard, but I guess that’s been a pattern? Also, I do enough of leading as is so in relationships, I don’t mind watching from the side and supporting whatever my partner is doing

-★🎶

I love that for us anon^^

I match you with...

Husk!

Man is definitely a hater too. I can definitely see both of you just talking shit about whoever you don't like.

Doesn't mind your flirtations but don't really expect him to reciprocate unless he's out to fluster you.

Silently supportive of your hobbies and your band. He likes that you're a perfectionist but won't let you overwork yourself to the point you forget to take care of yourself.

Demonstrates he cares for you through little things, he won't make a big fuss about it.

Watches whatever movie you like and is there to listen to you if you want to talk about it.

He's pretty chill with anything so you wouldn't have to worry about being judged.

I feel like you would definitely understand each other, he has toned down a lot since his overlord days.

Likes having you sitting at the bar and just be in your presence. If you shit-talk Alastor in front of him he's yours forever.

Hope you enjoyed it and I didn't mess anything up (feel free to reach out if so).

[emblemxeno]

Decided to take a shot at my own interpretation of “FE Warfare Morality” and whatnot that the fandom is screaming about.

Pacifist: War is absolute last resort no matter what. Celica, Eirika and Corrin could all realistically move to Pragmatist-Retaliatory and fit, but I put them in their own pacifist tier because they all have multiple in-story instances of diplomatic attempts at ending conflict of varying success (sparing enemies, reasoning with bandits, sacrifice of self or possessions); too many to not go noted imo.

Pragmatist-Retaliatory: Diplomacy and peaceful solutions are preferred, but warfare isn’t shied away from. Well aware of war’s reality, and if push comes to shove, they will take up arms. Characters in this tier often had homes invaded and/or parents killed by main aggressor. Avenging homeland or kin may also play a part. Eliwood could actually move up to pacifist because he is that self sacrificing, but I think he fits more where he is. Alm could go to Circumstance or Martial, but idk, he’s willing to give Fernand the benefit of the doubt in Act 3 and outright sends Rudolf an offer of a peace accord in Act 4 so I put him here. Seliph could also go to Circumstance because his willingness to try diplomacy more or less comes after the deed is done (such as questioning having to kill certain people being a necessity), but since his mercy and desire to prevent/avoid conflict is a part of his character, I put him here.

Pragmatist-Circumstance: Views and actions in regards to war are dependent on circumstance:

Lyn offers no quarter to bandits, pirates, or absolutely anyone who harms her family or friends, but is fair to special cases like Jaffar and Nino and does have instances of reasoning with others. 

Ike is a merc, so he often says how he feels doesn’t matter, but is regardless known to try and talk sense into people and be willing to smack folks around in equal measure. 

Micaiah doesn’t like needless conflict but understands the necessity in toppling Begnion’s oppressive rule in Daein and is forced into becoming a ruthless general during Part 3. 

Robin is similar to Ike, in that as a tactician his feelings don’t technically matter but is also known to value diplomacy or winning a battle depending on context. 

Lucina isn’t really in the leadership position enough to make peaceful or action-initiative calls, and when she is the leader in Future Past, it’s against the undead and the very evil Grima. However, her attempted assassination of Robin and general mixed feelings on what she’d do to save the future is enough for me to put her here.

Ryoma can techinically be retaliatory, but his own ignorance and xenophobia towards Nohr often prevents him from being diplomacy seeking, such as in CQ chapter 12. Nevertheless, he’s diplomatic enough after character development that he’s more dependent on circumstance.

Xander actually encourages the diplomatic approaches of Corrin more than once, before route split and during Conquest and Revelation, the latter two which he’s also an active participant in. However, his complicated feelings in regards to Garon and Nohr leads him to do bad things in the belief that it’ll be worth it, so he’s also circumstance.

Azura values peace and is known to compliment successful diplomatic approaches; however, she often questions Corrin’s more naive choices, weaves some relatively cold and calculated plans of her own, and is known to justify conflict more often than Corrin does.

Byleth is hard to guage because his alignment is route dependent, and he more or less serves as a support for the actual main character of said route. Plus his status as a silent protagonist muddies the waters a bit. Still, there is difference enough between the lack of mercy given to the Agarthans and the merciful fights towards former students that lets him land here.

Pragmatist-Martial: Preference for action over treaty attempts or negotiation during wartime, however, that doesn’t mean diplomacy is outright disliked or not valued by them. Hector, Ephraim, and Chrom are all appreciative of how their siblings strive for peace, and the latter two even attempt to emulate such actions on occasion. Sigurd was more than happy to try and pull out of Agustria, but even then, his most common solution to injustice was always marching on the enemy. Leif from the jump was gung-ho about taking down the oppressive forces in Thracia and had to be mellowed out a tad. Dimitri during his descent on the Azure Moon route could fit here, too, though honestly he’s such a unique case. Rhea I would also put here, or maybe Circumstance.

A lot of characters in the Pragmatist-Circumstance and Pragmatist-Martial tiers could also be lumped into Pragmatist-Retaliatory by general technicality (e.g. lots of these characters had homes invaded so retaliation is the expectation), but I wanted to be specific in talking about attitudes towards warfare.

Emperor: It’s just Edelgard lol. Despite her words about “not wanting civilians harmed” or her claims about the war being the only option, it means nothing when her first action in the game is attempted assassination of two people who she (at least to her knowledge in Dimitri’s case) never met. The assistance in kidnapping, subterfuge, conspiracy, human experimentation, and of course the 5 year war which inflicts copious amounts of different harm on the populous also cements her place here.

Plus the devs outright compared her position to past FE villains where she’s different in that she’s 1) a woman and 2) playable, so the twist where she’s behind the war is more of a surprise.

So yeah, that’s my list. Though really, I think trying to fit characters into these types of boxes is kinda stupid in the first place because all the main characters are just that different due to the contexts of their stories, so it’s just generally impossible to make the kinds of compare-and-contrast tier lists like these. Except Edelgard because of her inciting conflict being the one thing no other lord ever does.

[hypergamiss]

Hi there! I've been going through some difficulties repeatedly in my academics and life in general that i want to resolve once and for all and make sure it's in the past. I've been having issues during my viva and a massive inferiority complex over others having more practical experience than me in my field and not being good enough. I thought the baggage of my teens and my self concept back then had gotten better but these patterns keep making an appearance and reminding me how much time I've lost over these issues. I've come to the conclusion over the years that i have a habit of putting myself down and the negative self talk is reducing my chances of getting better at anything. I'm so frustrated that I'm this way because I repeatedly get told that I'm an excellent student and I have a bright future ahead but my own perception of myself is so distorted that it's coming in the way of achieving things. What's more is that people can see this inferiority much more than before. Obviously it's hard to miss due to my behaviour and that makes me an easy target too. Ik i should try to find the solution myself but i really need another person's POV and opinion on where I could start. I've decided this year is going to mark the end of my negative self concept! I'd be very grateful for your advice. Thank you ❤

It sounds like you're taking a fantastic first step towards conquering that negativity! Recognizing these patterns and actively seeking ways to break free is a powerful move. Here are some ideas to get you started on your journey towards a more positive self-image:

Challenge the Voice in Your Head:

Fact-check your thoughts: When that inner critic starts whispering, stop and question its validity. Are those thoughts based on facts or just negative self-talk?

Reframe the narrative: Instead of "I'm not good enough," try "This is a challenge, and I'm going to learn from it."

Focus on Growth:

Celebrate small wins: Every step forward counts! Did you ace a quiz? Did you present your ideas more confidently during class discussions? Acknowledge these achievements, no matter how small.

Embrace "yet": When comparing yourself to others, remember they too started somewhere. Instead of "They're so much better," try "They're experienced, and I can get there yet."

Self-Compassion is Key:

Forgive past mistakes: We all make them. Learn from them and let go of the guilt or shame.

Practice self-care: Prioritize activities that make you feel good – exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones. A healthy you is a more confident you.

Seek Support:

Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist: Sharing your struggles can be incredibly helpful. A professional can provide guidance and tools to manage negativity.

Additional Resources:

Explore online resources like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques for managing negative thoughts.

Consider self-help books on building self-esteem and overcoming imposter syndrome.

Remember: Change takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you have setbacks. Celebrate your progress, and keep reminding yourself of how far you've come. You've got this!

Here's a bonus tip:

Write down your positive qualities and goals. Reviewing them regularly can be a powerful way to combat negativity.

You've already made a great decision to take control of your self-image. This year can absolutely be the year you leave your negative self-concept in the past! Keep going, you've got a bright future ahead. 🤍

[alykatsevents]

Can I get a romantic matchup from Hazbin? Here are some informations abt me

Gender and pref: I’m a he/she and choose how I present myself based on the setting bc I’m not that open with ppl (yeah, I think it’s important to express yourself but realistically that won’t get me far in certain settings in my country); no gender pref but I’m not too fond of some writing choices when it comes to women in Viv’s works, depends on a character though

Style: kinda rockstar gf vibe? Sometimes softer colours too

Personality, hobbies: I’m social and extroverted. Usually that leaves me as a leader of whatever group I’m in. I have a little bit of a hater in me, but I don’t show it if ppl don’t encourage it. I do like when it’s being enabled though. It’s not convenient when you’re in a position where ppl ask you for opinions and actually follow your guide, yk, if I manage an event I’m not going to go around shit talking everything. It feels nice to have someone who does that though, makes it easier to join in and not feel like a jerk (or at least be jerks together I guess??). I write my own songs and am in a band as a backup vocal. Kinda proud that it’s my band but I need to get better until I step up as anything more. I’m a bit of a perfectionist. I like to tease ppl if given the opportunity. Others say I’m flirty. Bold with it at that. I’m ambitious too. Kind of a big thing but I have npd (if you want to look it up without reading scientific papers, go on tumblr, bc the rest of the internet is filled with ‘demonic narcissism’ bullshit) and it influences the way I am. I care lots about my image and don’t have a ton of empathy. I don’t go kicking puppies, but it’s noticeable how I lack in this department. Sometimes people say I’m ’too nice to have it’ cause i do well with kids and do all the youth group volunteering. Also, I do some martial arts and other sports. Kinda sceptical of romance at this point cause I had lots of it and I don’t mix well with a lot of people, but maybe I could do something serious for once if I had the right person. I try to be responsible and respectful but I have no issue finding my place at a wild party or something. I'm pretty chill in general, but I can be soft-er if I want, like with children or if the few ppl I actually am close with (I've got many friend groups but I struggle to make meaningful connections) need me. Usually I just stay my highly analytical, laid back self and say my silly little comments every once in a while. Heard I’m pretty funny if I want to be. My love language is acts of service. I like small things and I do them a lot. I can do words too, but I don't care for them in return. Like, you can be an asshole (up to a limit, I know my worth) and it’s cool with me if I see you have your ways of caring like putting on a song I like in the car

Likes and dislikes: love movies like Fight Club (my fav), American Psycho and Donnie Darko; hate sharks, they freak me out; my fav book is The Catcher in the Rye; hate it when people push me to open up and be emotional; love music and unironically had a few guys play songs AT me and I actually like that too, tho I get why ppl clown on that

My type: I like people who are more negative than me and aren't afraid to shittalk everything. Just saying whatever, not caring if they offend ppl (up to a point, some issues aren’t debatable ik). Don't really care for morality (to a certain point, again) if you're charismatic and fun to be around, I’m along for the ride and happy to support whatever you get yourself into. I think I would get along with someone who had a little npd too, I like to be able to relate to my partner a bit. If they work somewhat similarly, I don't have to struggle with understanding some stuff, bc I already know how to manage an ego or grandiose behavior. As for looks. Idk, I don’t have a set type. I think maybe ppl that are bigger than me? I’m pretty athletic so it’s not hard, but I guess that’s been a pattern? Also, I do enough of leading as is so in relationships I don’t mind watching from the side and supporting whatever my partner is doing

-★🎶

I match you with...

Husk

~He likes listening to you sing

~He doesn't get flustered much but he has a couple times by you

~Both of y'all are skeptical about the whole romance thing, But y'all are trying

~Likes watching movies with you

~Yall are both a bit emotionally stunted, that's okay though

~He loves your style

~He prepares drinks for you

~You do a lot of the talking between you two

~Yall shit talk together

~He likes your sense of humor

[majaloveschris]

Heya Maja just wanted to say I’m very grateful for your blog and how you approach situations. I’m sending this to a few blogs I visit regularly. I’m going to take a bit of a break from this fandom and everything. I’ve realised this situation has sort of effected me and I’m not sure why. It’s strange because no one even knows I’m a fan of his. It’s sort of my personal secret. I’d watch his movies as a kid and then got into marvel. Im not someone who even cares for celebrities in general. Im going to try spend my time sorting some things out in my life. My friends both back home and in college have noticed I’ve become distant which is really unlike me. I’ve avoided my friends, my responsibilities and have become withdrawn in general and I feel incredibly guilty and as if I’m failing at life like I’m some sort of loser femcel or I feel as if I’m becoming one because all I do is stay in my room do my thesis and watch films I also check tumblr every 1 hour. Im 22 and am graduating college soon. The friends I live with came up to me today and staged a sort of intervention saying that whatever I’m going through I can talk to them which made me realise I’m not hiding the fact that I’m struggling well and that I’m also blessed to have people who care. Im not sure where this is coming from because im usually a very social person with different groups of friends who’s very communicative. I’ve got a decent support network I’ve also been asked out by a few guys the past few months who are all lovely but I’ve said no out of fear for some reason again I can’t explain it because they are all lovely. I’m not sure what’s wrong with me I can’t even talk to anyone in my life about it because it sounds stupid. I think maybe I associated him or his characters with peace and happiness since his films were something I’d unwind to after soccer/school and life in general I was a very stressed out child so now it’s just been tipped over the edge because of all the drama and I think having this in my life is very detrimental which sounds like such a ridiculous first world problem and it is. Im not saying this is a big issue far from it but I do believe I have to remove this from my life. I think since fall 2021 there’s been nothing but drama and the past two years have been incredibly difficult for me as an individual due to my own personal reasons. Mid last year I thought everything was okay with this situation but they hit us last fall again. I’ve noticed fans are leaving left, right and centre so I hope for his sake he cuts ties with these weirdos. Every time some thing happens I drift between pr and real. Deep down I don’t believe this thing is real and I’m not sure why but there’s something I just can’t put my finger on. Thanks for always being so positive and a safe space for me to come. Sorry for the long paragraph ik I don’t need to announce it I just felt like I needed to get this off my chest.

Don't apologize for your words. I'm so happy you got this out of your chest, and I hope you feel a little relieved after writing this down.

It's definitely a hard time for all of us, and I'm so happy you decided to take care of your mental health. This whole mess isn't worth it. Especially if it has such a big effect on you and your life.

I'm happy you decided you needed to take this step. If you want to talk to someone about your feelings, I'm here.

I hope you will feel better soon and find your way back to yourself. I wish nothing but the best ❤️

[angelsofneonandgarbage]

sorey for being a bit. scary on main. i just finished madk vol. 3 which is finally out in english and i was so excited for it but the ending is a near closed-loop cyclical ending which always really bothers me n puts me in a state in nihilistic anxiety/dissociation idk but also. it just makes me wanna feel things again. i wanna stop taking my meds. ive had the upped dose for a week ish now n its bringing back my paranoia which should settle in a week tops but it's bothering me bc it means i cant listen to tma bc that's creepy enough to set it off. sorry i swear my mental health has actually been better these last couple of days im slowly regaining mental functionality to an extent but i keep slipping and falling and i just. don't have the spoons to figure out every problem i have and address them enough to be functional again. like there's the attachment problems w my ex which keep coming back every time i feel like jm getting over them, the chronic exhaustion and general symptoms of pots, my meds fucking with me, general depression but also manic episodes, the fact im way over budget but my mum wants me to get her a 60 quid fountain pen for her birthday/mothers day and im not going to be there to see her around that time anyway sso i have even less of an excuse to cheap out. and ive been committedly lying abt my mental state to my parents to convince them im getting better than i was at xmas even tho im worse bc my mum will come up here and invade my uni life if she realises how bad i am doing

ah yeah i hate when fiction leads to like a major dissociative bit especially bc i love to use media as an escape when im floating out my body and then it goes and makes it worse and sets off a chain reaction of pent up shittiness? the absolute worst fr

not to sound like an overbearing parent but pls take ur meds !!!!! ik it sucks rn getting thru the adjustment phase but think of how things will change once u get used to them! u may not notice a crazy positive change right away but think of the small things. like u can listen to tma again once ur adapted to ur meds!! even if it’s something small that gets u thru daily tasks like that. u could take ur pills in the morning and be like “this is for u martin”

and oh god ex drama we both know that one well. idk if it would help but maybe if every time u have a like thought abt them that makes u feel any way that’s great just text me ur thoughts to try and get them out yk. like how i texted u like “the voices!!” when i was talking abt my ex like the other week pls feel free to do that back if u think it would help

and exhaustion and depression suck man i wish i had some like quippy little tip or smthn for u there but i’m suffering right there with u on those. and maybe just the thought that we’re going thru that together could help? holding ur hand thru the horrors <3

and oh man money problems r the worse omg. ik u said the pen is like 60 quid and mothers day is coming up so idk what ur like personal budget is looking like but me when i’m trying to make bigger purchases is i set aside a few bucks a day like just a few dollars $2 or $3 nothing that seems like a lot just a little snack or drink price but somthing that adds up a decent bit when done for a few days straight and u have like two ish weeks till then right? so u could make a decent dent with that plan

and hey i’m all for lying to parents but i think u shoukd consider the possibility that u may need to ask for help at one point even tho that’s so hard and ur mom will get all up in ur business but maybe it could help. or u could think of ur daily life like ur mom is there or nearby as a way to like watch urself and try to control what ur doing if that makes sense?

[godtier]

vent

do you ever feel like you're constantly fighting to help everyone around you but when you need help, no one thinks to ask if you're okay?

i've always been the "helper," the "fixer," with everyone around me. friends, family, even strangers. it's almost a compulsion. if someone has a problem or issue, i want to help. helping makes me feel good, useful. it's why i did tech support for so long before my current position; i got great enjoyment out of solving problems for people. i enjoy the end result of making them feel better or more confident with the thing they're having an issue with. it makes me feel accomplished and useful, like i did something good for someone.

but there are times when i need help. i want to talk about things that bother me. i want someone to not just listen silently or passively, but to give some kind of feedback when there's an issue that's causing me stress.

but most people don't ask. they don't ask if i'm okay. they don't want to hear about my problems, they'd rather change the subject.

to understand, i don't mean just trauma dumping on someone out of the blue. it's not trauma that i have issues with typically; i keep my trauma close to the chest and rarely speak of it to anyone. but it's normal things, things about work, my life, so and and so forth, that i wish i had more support for. normal complaints. normal bouts of depression. normal bouts of uncertainty.

i feel like i can't talk to most people about these things. 90% of my friends are introverts. by contrast, i'm an extrovert; i need regular interaction with people or i start to get depressed or anxious. i can't simply sit with my thoughts. no matter how minor the thing is that may be bothering me, sitting and contemplating it by myself is exhausting. i need feedback.

i understand the concept of introverts being unable to constantly provide social feedback, that they need time to "recharge." but functionally, it's hard for me to navigate around and apply functional understanding of the concept itself. so i take great care. i try very hard to not be overbearing. i feel like i'm walking on eggshells, that i'm bothering them when their "battery" isn't "recharged." that i'm overbearing in general. so i have to be careful so i don't cause any issues by talking to them. but at the same time, if leave them to their devices, if i say "i'll wait for them to message me," it could be days between talking to them. that might sound "clingy" to most people who use this site (i feel ike 99% of tumblr and other fandoms spaces is full of introverts) but as an extrovert, i need social interaction regularly to function.

more than that, i just want to feel like people care about me. the people in my life who i would do anything for, would they return that favor? i don't know. it sucks to have this feeling of uncertainty about the people i love. it makes me feel like a horrible person.

i feel like a burden any time i try to talk to my friends about things that aren't just video games or fandom or art things. it's like there's this expectation of myself that's been built up. i'm the one who they come to for help, so if i'm in a mental position to where i feel exhausted by my problems, i can't say "no." i don't want to say no. it's a very "damned if you do, damned if you don't" situation in my internal thoughts and actions.

i understand that the "trend" for a lot of this interpersonal shit is the pseudo "self-help" rigmarole. "take care of yourself first! push people away who don't validate your feelings immediately! if they don't want to listen to your problems, they're toxic! learn to say no to everything!"

that doesn't suit me. i don't want to push people away. i don't want people to think they can't come to me for help or venting or whatever. that makes me feel useful that they'd come to me for that. and i want to help just... because they're my friends. i love them dearly. i want them to be happy and successful. i want to do what i can to help get them there, if possible.

but... it would be nice if i had more people that would stop to think if i'm okay and offer their help for a change. there's probably only one person who routinely listens to me and that's not fair to her. i end up dumping loads of my problems on this person routinely and then the guilt comes in shortly after. and it's not as though i don't listen to her when she has problems; i actively ask her if there's anything she needs to talk about. but it still feels awful when i vent. there's a moment of relief when i'm able to finally talk to someone who will listen and offer their thoughts in return, but it's quickly destroyed because of my guilt for having done it in the first place.

but again... it's one person. that's not fair to her. and such, i find myself holding back with her a lot because i know she's the only one who will listen. it's a paradox. "i need to talk about this, but i shouldn't be bitching about this to anyone. no one need this nonsense. even if they offered to listen, it's still horrible of me to take their offer. i should be able to handle this on my own. it's petty and stupid compared to other people's issues and problems."

it's created this mental trap in my mind. "you shouldn't complain about this to anyone because it's a burden. you're bothering them." but i always felt that it should be give and take, right? isn't that how it should be?

even typing all of this out, sending it into the void where no one would read it, i feel guilty. i feel like i'm whining uselessly. i'm being a big baby.

it sucks because i feel like i've become tech support for my friends. they call me, message me, when something's wrong and needs fixed. i listen, just like i would on a tech support call, then dig into the problem and offer solutions. or if solutions aren't needed, i just listen and provide my empathy. it's like being a therapist in those cases, just listening to problems, validating feelings, supporting people endlessly.

why doesn't anyone want to be "tech support" for me? well, it's because i've built up this expectation around myself of being the one who will always be there, who will always listen, no matter what.

and as i said, i don't want to stop being that support they need. i don't want people to stop coming to me for help. it makes me feel needed, sure, but the satisfaction of helping someone through something rough is what i enjoy. that they might be a little bit better because i offered that shoulder to cry on when no one else does for them.

but god, i wish that my friends would just... ask every now and then. "how's it going? are you okay? anything you want to talk about?" i don't really get that from most of them.

people might see this situation from the outside and think "well they're not really friends then, are they? cut them out!" and frankly, that nuclear option is ridiculously overkill and dramatic. it's not that simple. why would i cut out someone i care about just because they don't stop to think about the fact that i might have something on my mind? that probably sounds insane to a lot of people, but frankly i don't believe in cutting people out like that. people aren't tools you throw away when they don't work the way you want them to.

and that wraps back around to the guilt of even feeling like this. some people can't offer support, so why should i be upset about the uneven ground? i have empathy, i can understand that some people simply can't provide support. but it just... hurts sometimes. knowing that i am always there for them, no matter what, but it feels like the reverse isn't true. not as in that they don't care, but as in that my issues are often an inconvenience that they don't have the capacity to care about. sort of like "oh, that sucks, but anyway–"

it still hurts, though. it hurts to internalize my pain because it feels "lesser" than everyone else's problems. it embarrasses me when i try to get help and am met with silence or a change of subject. but how do i say that? it feels petty. if they don't want to listen, why force it on them? so i don't.

but i'll still be there, answering the phone when they call, replying to them immediately when they message me.

i just wish i was able to be selfish sometimes.

[creature-ofhabit]

HI! I saw your reqs are open and was wondering if you could do a slenderverse matchup for me?

I'm a 5'3 trans man, super thin but thats because of an unspecified eating disorder. Despite that part my body is more hourglass shaped than anything? Idk why its crazy. I have brown hair styled into a wolfcut and blue eyes (cliche ik but thats just how a was born,,😔) I also have a bunch of scars everywhere from various accidents.

I'm also otherkin! I've got phantom wings, tail, and horns. Basically, I'm an irl demon just like, in a human body. I already specified I'm trans (genderqueer with a pref for he/him), and I'm a fagdyke! I have a pref for men but women....I love them so much.

Personality wise, I'd say I'm usually pretty optimistic. I'm an extrovert, a people pleaser, and I just really like bringing the vibes up when I can. I try looking on the positive side of things. I do struggle with a lot of mental health issues, and I'm also autistic. My physical disability makes it kinda hard to be positive sometimes, but I manage as best as I can. I struggle with intrusive thoughts of all sorts, hallucinations, and just the chronic urge to bite people in general.

I'm a passionate drummer, and I have a strong love for science, history, and language. One of my special interests is CWD, which is a prion disease! I could go on for hours about biological functions and theories and all that. I have a special love for war history for some odd reason. It just sticks out to me more than any other type.

I hope youre having an awesome day!!

-🫀

Matching you with Jessa bc I relate to you so hard, and she's my absolute fav (other than Habit). Also, look how perfect she is, perfect for my first match up :D Have an awesome day!!

[themetaisawesome]

MK12 has been out for a while now, but I'll throw spoilers under the cut anyway. Long story short, I did not care for the last third of the story. Longer story below the cut.

I was pretty engaged in the first two acts, or at least the first half.

Shang Tsung's new backstory is great, a con-man elevated by "Damashi" with promises of power and greatness. Sorcery combined with alchemy and a claw weapon reminiscent of Scarecrow is top notch. Plus, Alan Yee channels Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa's smarmy deviousness excellently.

Glad Kronika is never coming back

Kung Lao's intro chapter was fine. I like the new status quo with him and human Raiden. Madame Bo is fun (hope she becomes a kameo). The Lin Kuei test was good.

Human Raiden is serviceable but boring.

Johnny is a mixed bag. On the one hand, he gets some of the funniest lines of the game and the Johnshi bits were excellent. The development of their friendship was top notch. On the other hand, he leans way too heavily into the younger Johnny we saw in the 2nd timeline. When Cristina was introduced I was like, "Whoa! Johnny has a new love interest? What's the story there?" But after she leaves, they don't do anything with her. They get divorced off screen, and I feel like that hurts Johnny's story. Some of his intro dialogues are borderline "fuck my ex-wife" sitcom level shit. He has one where he threatens Nitara if she goes near her, but that's it. There honestly seems to be something there with Cristina that the writers overlooked. She fell in love with Johnny before the fame, when he was John Carlton. It would've worked as the setup for a real arc for Johnny, where he has to learn that there's more to life and himself than the action movie star. It would serve as a nice echo of his development between MK9 and MKX. I'll be honest, as much as I like BladeCage, I wanted Johnny and Cristina to work things out.

While we're on the subject of intro dialogues, does the frequent use of the words male and female rub anyone else the wrong way? Maybe it's because our world is plagued by transphobes and their bullshit rhetoric, but I do not trust when those words replace man and woman in sentences where they shouldn't be. It makes dialogue sound less organic.

Baraka and Repile as heroes? Ashrah's return? Syzoth/Ashrah? Perfect. Amazing. No notes (except for a major one that I'll get to in a minute).

While I agree that Kitana was a bit underutilized, she still works. Love her.

Also loved how they used Mileena in the story, and she has some pretty good intros. So glad we got to see her with the heroes and on good terms with her family. Mitanya/Tanleena is also a very cute ship.

Li Mei was fine. She has a great new moveset. ACAB tho

Does anyone else think it's weird that they changed Quan Chi from an actual demon to a person of color, and then gave his white skin an origin story? His role in the story works, though he and his titan counterpart become second fiddles to Shang Tsung in the second half of the game. Sean Krishnan gives a good performance, but I do miss Ronald Banks.

Oh, General Shao. How the mighty have fallen. While Ike Amidi is a good actor, that voice does not work for Shao. It works for characters like Atrocitus because it's a very brutish voice. It lacks subtlety. There were times it was okay in MK11, but they doubled down in 12 and it does not work. General Shao gets one or two moments where I believed this was an accomplished war hero who genuinely believes what he's doing is right, but they are few and far between. The truth is, I don't think Netherrealm Games respects Shao Kahn, and that's a shame.

While we're on the subject of voices, let's get to Sub-Zero. While Kaiji Tang works for a character like Sanemi, it really doesn't work for Bi-Han. There is not a hint of subtlety in his try-hard edgelord presence.

Kuai Liang as Scorpion is... okay. Liu Kang really did give him Hanzo's moves, outfit, powers, name, wife, and position, and then made him a young Hanzo's mentor. Daisuke Tsuji was a great choice to play him, tho.

Glad Smoke is back and that's he voiced by Yuri Lowenthal, but there isn't a whole lot there. He's almost as boring as Raiden.

So, I know Jerrod being a part of Ermac has been a thing since MK9 and Netherrealm is finally doing something with the concept, but I don't care for it. It's not bad, and it works in the story, but I feel that giving Ermac the soul of a major character detracts from him being his own character. Ermac stops being Ermac and instead becomes a second life for Jerrod.

Pretty boy Havik and his hair still makes me laugh.

Darrius sure does exist.

The less said about Nitara Fox the better.

Glad Motaro and Sareena returned. Goro still seems way too short.

The writers did well with Sindel, making her a noble queen but one who holds grudges and has a temper is many steps above Twindel. Shame she died tho.

Liu Kang gets a B- for this new timeline. Matthew King continues to nail it out of the park with his performance, the Fire God has some spectacular fatalities, and there's a lot of interesting stuff in this new status quo. There's just a lot to nitpick with the third timeline.

So, my main gripe with the story starts at the Titan Shang Tsung reveal. The reveal itself is perfect. Aftermath's alternate ending being canon in another timeline and using him as the villain behind the scenes is an idea worthy of two chef's kisses.

However, it's to this story's detriment. He usurps the narrative significance of the current timeline's villains and their plot. Had they saved Titan Shang Tsung for the very end and as the antagonist for the next game, it would allow better focus on our current timeline villains and given more heroes screentime. Baraka, Ashrah, and Reptile disappear half-way through the game. Mileena and Sindel get to shine (before the latter becomes the sole heroic casualty), but the rest of our heroes only get a handful of moments. This is especially bad because from chapters Kenshi to Syzoth, the group dynamic was so strong that I missed this team working together during the second half of the game.

While there is something commendable in going so big as Armageddon 2.0, the fusion fighters feels gimicky and the Titanic Deadly Alliance just feels... eh. Honestly, most of the minions don't feel like they come from the same timeline as the Dark Raiden and Twindel that we fought earlier.

And then the Deadly Alliance just gets beaten. The diner scene that follows feels weaker because A, not all of our heroes are there, and B, Geras' warning that Liu Kang will have to sacrifice the life he's grown accustomed to doesn't pan out because he can just hang out with them any time he wants. If "the realms are in good hands" is meant to tie back in to that "sacrifice", then it falls flat because it doesn't connect.

Then there's the end credits teaser, which is a dud. What makes Titan Havik any more threatening than the other two titans that we just defeated? If Titan Havik is a teaser for an Invasions event, whatever. If he's set up for MK13, then every criticism

But if they were dead set on having Armageddon 2.0 in MK12 and if they wanted to set up the next game, Titan Havik wasn't the one to go with. You know who they should've had step through that portal?

The return of the OG Shao Kahn empowered by Blaze would've knocked the socks off of everyone. It establishes that the Midway timeline still exists (even if everyone is dead in it), puts Shao Kahn back in a place of honor, and would be WAY more hype for MK13.

Anyway, those are my many thoughts.