#but at the same time the other leaders share the same behaviors and views

[hiroshiii13]

Head Disciple Binghe x Young Master SY #Bingqiu thoughts

Sometimes I think about Binghe that didn’t have to lose his parents. Didn’t have to go through the abyss and didn’t have to fight for the acknowledgment of his Shizun.

He’d be the darling of the demonic and cultivation world; doted upon in his younger years and a respected cultivator after his coming of age. He’d be self-assured, almost cocky, the way young masters who have never experienced being wronged are.

But Binghe would always have the skills to back it up, besides his innate talent, Su Xiyan, head of HHP, made sure that his son was grounded and hardworking. In fact, he commands HHP when his parents would up and travel for months at a time.

He’s forthright, which he learned from his mother, yet empathetic and charming, which he got from his romantic father.

I still think Bingqiu would be a thing. They meet as desk mates (borrowing this @/Gusu Lan arc) and wouldn’t hit it off at the start.

SY has always admired Binghe from the stories he’s heard from his older siblings. Binghe, the leader of the next generation. He looked forward to meeting him.

Imagine his surprise when the first day of his excursion led to sparring with said leader of the next generation and his humiliating utmost defeat in .005 seconds. He wanted to look cool in front of him but he can forego this embarrassment. It’s okay!!! This was expected from Binghe!!

But what was not okay was the harsh training at HHP. SY could not help but feel a little resentful towards BH. He was the third son in a merchant family. His family’s cultivation was in refining pills and artifacts, you could say it’s 80% marketing and 20% refining even, so he had never done hard labor in his life!!

He almost regretted saying he would join HHP for the summer instead of joining another sect specializing in botany and alchemy, which was his specialization.

Binghe, as the head disciple in charge of training, provided a plan that was standard in his sect. While he does enjoy seeing this pretty gege scrunching his brows, pursing his lips, flushed like a tomato during drills, (Heh.) he does feel pity and gives him a little less reps.

But it’s in the study portions where SY shines. LBH is astounded with SY’s encyclopedic knowledge.

Reminiscent of the child-like wonder he experienced as TLJ told him stories before bedtime. Of monsters that can swallow suns and plants with roots so deeply in the earth that it shakes. He learns later on of course that these were mere exaggerations but at that time, as SY babbles on about plant no. 4892, he could not help but feel that same fascination.

Their relationship starts getting better. Binghe would pick his desk mates brain despite knowing (some) of the answers, the other would prattle on, patiently teaching.

From an outsiders point of view, LBH looked indulgent, a soft smile ever present on his face, while his deskmate would fan himself while explaining, obviously enjoying the attention. And who could blame him?? He was teaching THE Luo Binghe! From then on, Binghe would teasingly call him Shizun.

Despite SY being slightly older than BH, he is the youngest son, (he has 1 meimei) in their family. Compared to Binghe who was raised to meet certain expectations, SY had a more unrestrained behavior. If he wanted a snack, he would get it. If he wanted to nap, he snuck it in.

And nothing could stop Binghe from doting on him on their free time. As an only child, he never had someone to spoil or play with so he recaptures some of his childhood like this. Sharing snacks, showing parts of HHP and sometimes sparring in the fields between laughter.

But SY’s pride cannot take being coddled, he’s older than him! so he dotes back. Bringing him refined pills for his cultivation, sending in some rare herbs and animal skin. (He is working his nepo baby network overtime!)

When he teaches BH during self-study, he compliments him when he gets things right while patting his head. And how BH thrives from being dotted on, now at his grown age! LBH feels lucky.

He found someone, who was not only smart and chatty, but was thoughtful and indulgent towards him. He… he really liked SY. Meanwhile SY found himself even more gently stroking his hair. He can’t wait to share to his siblings how the great LBH was completely docile from his head patting. SY could not help ruffling his curly hair, almost pulling. (As for what that would awaken later on, we won’t discuss.)

They part after that summer, but keep in touch through letters. Both feeling a longing to meet. SY decides to pick up a sword and learn how to fly it. He can definitely learn it and fly to HH and casually meet BH. His siblings give it a week til he gives up. But surprisingly 1 week turns into 2, then a month, then on the 6th month he could fly long distances.

His nausea was still as bad as ever but he can endure, he will learn how to endure. As to why he didn’t tell Binghe though? he didn’t know why he wanted to keep this as a surprise.

—

The Immortal Alliance Conference was upon them, and SY had received BH’s letter and how he might not be able to respond as quickly for the time being. But in fact, he was very much aware of the event. He even haughtily bet a few hundred spirit stones when someone mockingly said LBH would not place.

No one could escape his scalding critique had anyone even breathed wrongly towards BH. The public ate their melon seeds while watching another one succumb to that monster. They could not outbid him and even more so, out talk him. What a rabid fanboy. He gained notoriety overnight.

So imagine their surprise when the conference was over. How LBH saw SY, how he ran and hugged him, bombarding him questions of how he got there. LBH showing a small cut the size of a nail, a slight glassy look in his eyes as he retold his hardship and triumph.

The passersby knew it was an exaggeration, they were all watching him effortlessly kill the demons!! His confidence practically oozing. Even the ladies fainted against such charisma. What is this?? The fiersome leader selling meng??

AND THE DEVIL INCARNATE, who ate his every opponent in a bloodless battle, was suddenly a gentleman, waving his fan with a sweet smile, talking softly while patting the champion’s head.

WTF??

__

They take a few more years of friendship before eventually tying the knot but their families have long known each other since those two have been inseparable. SY spends his days at HHP in the summers while LBH goes with the other’s family in winter. TLJ still feels a little sour in his heart that his son would spend his bdays w/ SY more than them.

The 2 men were even more sticky when they got married. Waking up, preparing meals, cleaning up, lounging, it’s as if they could not get enough of the other. The Regret of Chunshan exists btw, but rather than an angsty story of abandonment and conflict, it is said that they just, really, really loved each other for a lifetime.

(Of course the papapa is front and center!! LMY writes about a rich, young master fanboy and his seemingly respectable cultivator idol having loving, disrespectful, s/ex. She delivers always!)

END.

#svsss #mxtx #luo binghe #bingqiu #shen qingqiu #hiroshi drabble

[yanderes-galore]

I really like the idea of yandere TMNT 2012 Leo vs Raph concept. Not only do they fight all the time, but add a darling to the list and it's just non stop fights all the time

Very true! I'll just spill my thoughts into this so sorry if it seems incoherent.

Yandere! 2012! Leonardo vs Yandere! 2012! Raphael

Pairing: Romantic/Platonic - Rivalry

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Obsession, Stalking, Violence, Anger issues, Jealousy, Manipulation, Possessive behavior, Protective behavior, Isolation, Kidnapping mentioned at times, Murder/Murder attempts mentioned, Dubious companionship, Blood.

I feel both platonic and romantic intentions would cause tension between the two.

The two already fight for various reasons as is, yet they do care for each other.

Leonardo is the leader and often is shown the most attention because of that, which Raph is envious of in earlier seasons.

I actually feel the reason of this rivalry would be the fact Raphael is envious his brother can appeal to you so easily.

Raphael has anger problems to the point he's destructive to those around him, even if he doesn't mean it.

However I don't want people to think he's only violence.

2012 Raphael may be one of the more violent versions of the character, but he does love his darling.

When in a good mood he does like to hold you close and utilize his darling for comfort.

He'd be more likely to be softer when Spike becomes Slash and leaves.

He resorts to his darling for comfort and gets frustrated at the idea of losing you.

It also tends to make him treat you like a pet.

Leonardo is a yandere who tends to be the same rather than change like Raph.

While Raph tends to be a violent possessive yandere that has his moments as softer yandere, Leonardo is usually always a protective and sometimes suffocating yandere.

I feel the fighting between the two can range from sibling spats to violent duels.

It just depends on how worked up they are.

I feel it doesn't matter who you meet first in this case.

Raphael would be envious that Leonardo gets along with you either way.

Raphael likes to have you as his and his alone.

Even if he has to fight for it.

Leonardo is similar except he views it in the more protective sense, you're his because he feels he's the most capable of keeping you safe.

Their motives are another reason they argue.

Raph always complains that Leonardo is trying to steal you from him or something.

Meanwhile Leonardo thinks Raphael is incapable of protecting you due to how reckless he is.

Their rivalry is much different than their 2018 counterparts.

2018 Leo and Raph mostly are physically affectionate and keep fighting rather sibling-like for the most part.

2012 Leo and Raph don't mind fighting until the other bleeds over you due to jealousy, or at least Raph doesn't.

In terms of who's most affectionate there's no doubt it's Leonardo.

Leonardo is softer and very caring, often locking you away due to paranoia instead of possession.

Although the line between possession and protection are rather thin with him.

Raphael would be the type to lock you away in his room just to keep you away from others like Leo.

Not really for protection, mostly so he has you to himself.

It's obvious Raphael doesn't like the idea of sharing with others.

Leonardo is okay somewhat with you talking to others but often tries to redirect your attention instead of attacking them.

Them fighting can be brutal or tame.

Anything from a verbal argument/threats to them ending up covered in blood from the other.

Any fight they have puts you off and scares you.

Both yanderes are capable of kidnapping.

Raphael resorts to violence/murder more often than Leo.

Leonardo only resorts to violence if he feels it'll protect you.

You are right that it would be hard to have them work together if they are so upset about their darling issue.

It's happened in the past the the two would fight for authority or attention to the point it hurts the team.

How they get over you is probably the worst due to the fact they are never going to agree.

I don't even think they have to slander each other.

Raph's violent nature is enough for Leonardo to try and convince you Raph is an issue.

While Raphael tends to ignore manipulation unless it's threats.

He can just take what he wants.

They are both violent because they fear losing you.

Raphael just so happens to have an issue controlling such anger.

In terms of killing each other, Raph may attempt it but Leonardo tries not to.

They do still care for each other even if they don't agree when it comes to you.

Darling would frequently be given the role of mediator between the two.

That's probably the only way to stop their fighting momentarily, Donatello and Michelangelo may try to help too.p

They both try to brainwash you once they get you alone.

You'd be more prone to believe Leo even if he's almost just as bad.

Leo would never try to hurt you...

Raph would if he lost his cool or felt you deserved it somehow even though he loves you.

They both are pretty bad and destructive in their own ways.

I can see them setting up a final fight to settle things if it came to you.

It may end in bloodshed... it may even end with one of them dead...

But they'd do anything for you, right?

#yandere teenage mutant ninja turtles #yandere tmnt 2012 #yandere tmnt #yandere raphael #yandere leonardo #yandere tmnt 2012 raphael #yandere tmnt 2012 leonardo

[princeasimdiya12]

Bucchigiri Utena Parallel-The Depravity of Sad, Strange Little Men

While there have been various comparisons that can be found between Bucchigiri and Revolutionary Girl Utena. From it's parallels with the main protagonist duo, the usage of fairy tales and their influence towards the heroes, to themes of self-stagnation & it's consequences. But for me, something I've had a hard time finding was direct comparisons between it's core cast. While they do have some similarities, not all of it is ideally parallel with the Bucchigiri delinquents having different personalities and arcs compared to the Utena duelists. That said, I was able to find two characters who came close with paralleling each other: in terms of their designated roles, their origins, their stance on gender and what becomes of them afterwards.

Shindo Akutaro and Kyouichi Saionji

Disclaimer: Just as a warning, there will be light spoilers from Revolutionary Girl Utena that will be discussed, though mainly in relation to Saionji's character and less of the series in general. There will also be mentions of domestic and sexual abuse.

Part 1: The Starter Villain

One of the first similarities that both Saionji and Akutaro share is that they both start out as the first official antagonists in their respective series. The way they're presented in the series makes them come off as genuinely dangerous men who intentionally cause harm for others.

Saionji's first scene is him slapping Anthy over an unheard conversation which is made worse when it's established that she's "betrothed" to him. He "justifies" the abuse because of the engagement which he treats as being in a relationship with him as the domineering boyfriend and Anthy as his loyal girlfriend. But what drives Utena to confront him is when he (supposedly) posted Wakaba's love letter in a public space for everyone to mock. Utena and the audience are meant to find him despicable for his behavior and want to see him be taken down ASA-NOW.

Akutaro also serves as a despisable human being who is presented as the first major threat in the series. He's portrayed as the most bloodthirsty and cruelest of the Big Three Banchos introduced in the story. While Marito rivals him in bloodthirstiness and sadism (and was technically the first adversary Arajin was forced to confront), he is shown to have some redeemable traits such as his friendship with Outa and his genuine respect towards Kenichirou. The same cannot be said for Akutaro who has no redeeming attributes. He frequently mistreats his NG Boys with threats and violence viewing them as inferior to him, forces them to steal from non-gang affiliated students, and is preparing an elaborate plot to force the rival gangs to destroy each other so he can take over.

It's also worth mentioning that his role as the first villain was even foreshadowed in the opening song. Whereas Marito and Kenichirou only looked big and scary in front of Arajin, they never actually grab him and look as though they want Arajin to face them. Akutaro is the only one who interacts with Arajin by binding him with his whips, stripping him to his boxers and tossing him down a dark hole.

The audience recognizes Akutaro as the least likable but most dangerous of the bancho leaders and are hoping to see him be taken down before his wicked plots can take effect.

But despite being presented as major villains, they didn't actually start out that way. They were once regular kids who ended up falling into the dark side because of a falling out between them and a man they once looked up to.

Part 2: Now You'll Respect Me, Because I'm a Threat

As explained in Episode 5, Akutaro actually started out as a humble nerd who was an easy target for delinquents to pick on. But that all changed when he was rescued by Kenichirou and was given the opportunity to join Minato Kai alongside him. Akutaro accepted and trained himself into becoming a man worthy of Kenichirou's respect. But that all changed when Akutaro brought a weapon to the fighting ring, something that was strongly discouraged in MK which lead to his banishment.

And in Saoinji's case, he once had a close friendship with Touga Kiryuu, the Student Council President and future antagonist following his defeat. Both boys started out caring for one another and saw each other as equals. But that all changed when they came across a young girl in a coffin who just lost her parents and wanted to join them. The next day, the girl disappeared and Touga's attitude about the mystery girl causes Saionji to think that he showed her something eternal to help her leave the coffin.

Both boys started out as genuine and harmless friends to someone they once admired. But after a conflict involving ideals, the friendship became strained. Akutaro swore vengeance against Kenichirou for tossing him aside and vowed to destroy him while Saionji, despite still being friends with Touga in the present, would develop intense levels of jealousy and and inferiority complex.

But whereas Saionji was driven by envy because of Touga's manipulations and desire to stand out on top between the two of them, Akutaro was the one who broke his friendship by refusing to accept Kenichirou's ideals and how he was in the wrong to use weapons in a true fight.

Each of them had different reasons for their falling out, but they shared the same dream of becoming stronger then their former friends in the hopes of surpassing them. And surprisingly, both boys are successful when it comes to building themselves up as men worthy of respect and power.

Saionji would grow up to be the captain of the school's Kendo Team, amassing horde of fangirls who were swayed by his bewitching good looks and is also an official member of the Student Council. It's also implied that he was a worthy duelist as he started out with Anthy in his possession before Utena became involved, meaning that he bested the other duelists (minus Touga) beforehand.

And in only a few years time, Akutaro managed to create a delinquent gang that's on the same level of credibility as MK and SS who've lasted for several decades. The NG Boys have a large number of followers, several bases for meetings and weapons manufacturing and even having territorial rights in certain locations in Honki City. Though it isn't specified on how much of the NG Boys' creation and success was due to Akutaro's own merits or if Ichiya was involved in it's genesis, but it stands that he succeeded in making a fearsome group to command with many of the other rival gang members acknowledging them as a threat that shouldn't be messed with on a whim.

Part 3: Gender Politics in My Anime?

To maintain their power and assert their authority over others, both Akutaro and Saionji rely on traditional gender norms to maintain their respective identities and influences. The problem being is that the norms they rely on fall heavily on toxic masculinity.

In RGU, Saionji's toxic masculinity is shown towards his mistreatment of Anthy and his resentment of Touga. And while the other men in Utena are also guilty of engaging in toxic masculinity and strict gender norms, Saionji's practices stand out as being the most noticeable and easy to identify.

He views Anthy as an ideal girlfriend who should obey and follow along with his will regardless of what she thinks. Any opposition is met with slapping her and scolding her for thinking differently. His views towards Touga is someone who challenges his status as the superior man. He's constantly in conflict with him when it comes to kendo competitions or how they should go about the dueling tournaments. And in each instance, Touga always comes out on top which fuels Saionji's insecurity which leads to anger and violently lashing out at anyone or anything to cross his path.

It's also mentioned that he makes several misogynistic comments about the roles men and women play which would contribute to his ongoing hatred of Utena. A girl who refuses to play her role and stands between him and his supposed Rose Bride. Although it isn't outright stated, it's also implied that Saionji did come from an abusive family which would explain how he obtained his callous mistreatment of women, his ideas on gender roles along with his casual usage of violence.

Akutaro also shares similar beliefs when it comes to power and respect. His use of weapons and lack of an honor code when fighting contribute to his belief that a great man is one who will do anything to win. Even if it means being violent, cruel, sadistic and merciless, it all will be worth it as he stands above everyone. The Emperor for the World to see. He even forces these ideals to his NG Boys just before the big war by encouraging them to embrace the ideal of kill or be killed. As in they kill the other gang members or they'll be killed by his own hand for failing to meet his expectations.

As for how he views and mistreats women... Before we can go into that, I'd like to take a quick detour and bring up how Minato Kai and Siguma Squad engage with gender norms.

Bucchigiri doesn't exactly go into detail with gender politics due to it's significant lack of girl characters and how the main boys rarely mention their own beliefs about girls in general. (With the exception of Arajin who only shows interests in girls by seeing them as potential girlfriends and tools used to lose his virginity and the narrative is more than willing to punish him for his beliefs). Not to mention it is rather questionable why there haven't been any girl members to be part of either Minato Kai or Siguma Squad, especially since there isn't a rule saying girls aren't allowed. Despite this, it is worth bringing up how the two clubs are rather lenient when it comes to how the boys defy traditional gender norms.

In Minato Kai, Matakara is presented as the most sensitive, friendly and warm-hearted boy of the group. He's always shown as easy to warm up to and welcoming of other people provided you aren't a threat. None of the MK boys have any issue with his sensitivity and how he boasts on how Arajin is better than him in terms of strength. It even comes as a shock for everyone when he turns to the dark side and begins his quest of fighting everyone for the sake of getting stronger. In a traditional shonen show, a man engaging in this behavior while closing his heart would be applauded since that's what's commonly expected. Whereas in Bucchigiri, it's portrayed as a tragedy that Matakara would go against his beliefs.

Other examples include Komao who dresses in a feminine manner but is never subject to mockery or being made fun of by his peers or the show. Zabu is also able to express emotional honesty towards Matakara regarding him being the reason the war started which is made better as Matakara accepts his apology and still treats him as a friend. Not to mention that he does make beautiful paper decorations and takes pride in it.

Siguma Squad also follow a similar acceptance of emotional vulnerability among it's core members. This is most evident in Episode 10 during Jabishiri and Hagure's confrontation with Corrupted!Matakara. Following the brutal defeat, Jabishiri who's presented as the most aggressive, moody and masculine of the duo expresses genuine disappointment in front of Hagure and comes close to crying. And in the following episode, when he tries to hunt Matakara despite his injuries, Hagure slaps him and cries his heart out while calling him out for his thick-headenness. In any shonen series, the masculine one would snipe at their friend for acting like a sissy and not like a real man. But Jabishiri lets him and realizes that he's right. And even Outa, who can be interpreted as a traditionally masculine man, never chastises the duo for their behavior or how they're not acting like real men. He instead acknowlegeds their emotions and promises them that they'll still keep Siguma Squad alive.

So both gangs are shown to be accepting of emotional vulnerability amongst their groups and are pretty okay with their members expressing gender-non-conforming actions without fear.

As for the NG Boys, that vulnerability is nonexistent as the Emperor uses a brutal and heartless manner of keeping his underlings in check. The boys can only discuss in secret with each other over their own feelings on the matter out of fear of being victimized by the Emperor. Mixed with the lack of individualization of the NG Boys, they exist in a space controlled by Akutaro where only his voice and beliefs, belonging to the greatest man, can be acknowledged and obeyed.

And that is in relation to how the boys in the three groups are able to relate to each other. But there is one component of the NG Boys that neither their rival gangs have but also gives an understanding of Akutaro's toxic masculinity.

The NG Girls.

The existence of the girls highlights how it is possible for girls to be affiliated with any of the gangs. But how curious that instead of fighting alongside the NG Boys as potential fighters and delinquents, they instead only work as flashy showgirls. Wearing cute outfits, performing elaborate dance choreography and acting flirty with anyone that their boss sets in their sights. And given that Akutaro is the boss and prime founder of the NG Boys, it's within reason to believe that he came up with the idea of NG Girls and their roles in his gang.

So sad to say, their existence and jobs falls into gender stereotyping with what is expect of boys and girls. Boys are expected to be tough fighters who show no fear, cannot confide in each other and will hurt others without restraint. Girls are expected look cute, be desirable and attend to the needs of the boys they come across. It's also implied that they work as prostitutes based on Akutaro promising Arajin to "pop his cherry" using the girls mixed with their seductive actions during the dance scene.

And of course there's the whole scene with Akutaro proposing on turning Mahoro into a trophy girl aka sex slave once he takes down Marito. He sees her as a prize to be claimed after defeating her older brother and would consider sexually exploit her for the sake of dragging Siguma Squad's reputation into the ground. So it is rather concerning that he views girls as objects to be claimed and toyed with as a spoil of war. Something a power-hungry man would enjoy having.

Thankfully, both boys are clearly presented as being in the wrong for their beliefs and practices of toxic masculinity which makes their defeat at the hands of the heroes very satisfying.

Part 4: How the Mighty Have Fallen

Once the antagonists are defeated by their respective protagonists, they end up falling into two roles as the story continues: pawns for the fairy tale villains and comic relief.

As mentioned before, Saionji's friendship with Touga is presented as a constant power struggled fueled by jealousy and insecurity. Touga actually knows of Saionji's feelings and purposefully exploits them for his own gain. First in Season 1 by tricking him with a fake letter as part of his grand scheme of making himself look good in front of Utena and later in Season 3 when he starts to collaborate with End of the World.

For Akutaro, following his defeat and exposure at the Gang War Arc, he's tricked into helping Ichiya reach Matakara with the promise of revenge. But as soon as Ichiya makes official contact, he abandons Akutaro leaving him powerless and resentful.

And during the time they're used, they essentially fade into the background as the protagonists turn their attention to other pressing matters regarding the plot and their relationships with their friends. The starter villain that once posed as a significant threat is casually ignored or brushed off without a care. And given what heartless monsters they were since the beginning, who wouldn't want to ignore them or give them a death glare to shut them up?

Because of Saionji's brutish behavior, Utena and friends rarely pay him attention, even when he has "important" things to say, and instead focus on other events in their daily lives. It's even more apparent when he's temporarily expelled from Otori Academy and loses his influence among the student body. Thus forcing him into becoming a nobody.

And with having lost the great war, his former NG Boys have no reason to continue following him and beat him up as retribution for his past transgressions. They along with the NG Girls openly laugh at what a loser he is and promise each other not to let someone like him boss them around anymore. And with no influence or status, all Akutaro can do is watch from the sidelines hoping that fate will be kind enough to defeat his enemies for him.

Though a major difference when it comes to both boys in regards to their pathetic states is that Saionji continues to have relevance in the story while Akutaro remains a bystander. Despite losing a fourth time to Utena in Season 3, he still sticks around as a Student Council Member and even works alongside Touga when he decides to stop Utena. He even brings up how questionable it is to follow the End of the World's ideals when he and the other council members don't know his true motivations. And although Akutaro does warn Arajin of the Honki People's true agenda and the danger they're in, he doesn't actively do anything afterwards. He mainly stays on the side watching the final battles play out. And it's more than likely he won't be able to do much when Matakara has his ultimate battle with Arajin.

Conclusion

Both Akutaro and Saionji start out as the first villains of the story that the audience is meant to dislike because of their cruel and power-hungry behaviors. The reason they transformed into dangerous men was because of a falling out they had with men they once admired in the past. As a result, they would work hard into becoming men with great authority all in the hopes of vanquishing the ones that wronged them and to prove how much better they are then them. The two are also shown to have practiced toxic masculinity given their horrid views of how women should be treated, their ideals on "might makes right" and how they refuse to engage in emotional vulnerability. And once they're defeated, they're brushed off to the side as comic relief while spectating the new battles that the heroes engage in.

And those are my thoughts on the similarities between these two jerks. I never imagined I would make this type of analysis post since I personally hate Saionji. I respect his role in RGU and understand his character in the long term, but men who hurt women while calling it love is something I will never forgive. Either way, I saw the similarities so I decided to put up with him for this analysis So what do you think of these thoughts and the roles of the two villains? If you agree or disagree with anything I’ve written, please feel free to reblog and/or comment with your own ideas. Thank you and may you have a great day/night!

#bucchigiri?! #revolutionary girl utena #bucchigiri #rgu spoilers #akutaro shindo #kyouichi saionji #touga kiryuu #kenichirou douman #toxic masculinity #gender norms #analysis #long post #eddy's posts #minato kai #sigma squad #ng boys

[cyanide-latte]

🌹for all three of your skrunklies please :)

OOOH YESSSSS RIDDLE

🌹 what relationship does your oc have with riddle?

Copper Benoit: Since they first meet post-Overblot for Riddle while Copper is visiting NRC as a "guest", it's kind of an interesting sense of uneven footing at first. Riddle is still Riddle and being polite as decorum calls for when guests are involved, as well as firm, but I think he can tell something is off with this kid. (Perhaps he recognizes something akin to his own trauma, if not wholly the same.) Copper sees Riddle as a very responsible and formal example of an NRC student, so when he unknowingly breaks a rule and Riddle points it out, Copper apologizes for not knowing and asks if there are any other rules he should be aware of. Riddle is all too happy to answer questions (and has to remember to hold himself back a little so as not to get overbearing,) and this leaves a good impression. Copper admits he's not sure he'll remember everything but he'll try and he'd appreciate any reminders if possible, and Riddle's positive response also leaves a good impression on Copper. Once Copper becomes a student due to Plot Progression, he makes it a point to maintain a good relationship with Riddle. As far as he's concerned, if Riddle needs something, he's willing to try to make it happen if he can. I wouldn't say they're close friends or anything, but they like each other well enough and are on good terms.

Wei Renqiao: Good, good friends. They're both sophomores and met early into their freshman year due to shared classes. Riddle's respectful formality towards WRQ's culture and the latter's return on politeness and curiosity about Heartslabyul overall won immediate friendliness. Over time, they've had many discussions about their respective situations (Riddle with his childhood trauma and challenges as Housewarden, feeling like his dormmates disrespect structure that's there and reinforced by Riddle to try to help them and honor the Queen of Hearts; and Wei Renqiao struggling with the weight of being expected to be a leader to his people but clashing with his uncle's views of what that means and feeling like he's better suited to serving others by finding or creating means of accommodations for them.) This isn't to say they've not had similar discussions with others, but there's a certain level of appreciation they have when they can confide, compare, and offer their perspectives on one another's challenges or struggles. They've also got some fun moments where WRQ has astonished others (usually by picking Riddle up and carrying him when they gotta hustle to class) and rattled off the appropriate Rule to point out he's well within his rights to do something, which delights Riddle to no end. WRQ initially offers Riddle the allowance to call him "Ren", which Riddle declined prior to his Overblot arc. It didn't feel proper. Post-Overblot, with Riddle taking more time to think on the enormity of what that actually means, is working on occasionally trying to call him "Ren" as a means of signifying their friendship is also important to him, even if he's not totally comfortable using the nickname for him yet.

Chrysanthos Shroud: OH HOO HOO BOY. BOY OH BOY. RIDDLE DOES NOT LIKE CHRYS ONE BIT. Chrys is (in Riddle's opinion) extremely rude, has an inappropriate sense of humor, disrespectful, and worst of all, the instant he tries to tell Chrys he's in violation of ANY rules, Chrys seems to take this as an invitation to start doing it DELIBERATELY to enrage him, taunting the entire time. Throw in that later on, Chrys reads him like an open book reading his trauma and behavior? When Riddle sees him, it's on SIGHT. Chrysanthos for his part, is just doing his thing and being himself, and if he has no issue disturbing his little cousin's peace as a means of showing affection to Idia, you'd best believe he also has no qualms disturbing the peace of a kid who clearly has some underlying deeper issues, piss-poor coping mechanisms and an issue with boundaries when he tries to force others to mold to his coping mechanisms. Chrys is a punk through and through, of course he's going to then break more rules to prove a point to Riddle. He sees it as a sort of cause-and-effect Riddle needs to start recognizing. Eventually he does read Riddle quite frankly to his face; it's just how Chrys is, and it's kind of his way of trying to show compassion and benevolence, offering some difficult insight and possible wisdom. Despite the way he likes to act like a troll, Chrys genuinely pities Riddle and hopes he'll eventually overcome the things that continue shackle and suffocate him.

Taglist (this is a WIP and if you want to be removed from the list, just let me know!) : @tixdixl @ramshacklerumble @inmateofthemind @changeofheart69 @thehollowwriter @blithesharem @theleechyskrunkly @rainesol

#TWST OCs #my OCs #Copper Benoit #Wei Renqiao #Chrysanthos Shroud #answered asks #thehollowwriter #Disney TWST #TWST #Twisted Wonderland #Riddle Rosehearts #Cyanide speaks

[plutolauvs]

Thank you for replying, I'll try rewriting the request so it fits-

Can I request a Shuichi x Kokichi's friend!reader? They grew up together, and have the same Ultimate (if that's ok), but reader acts a bit differently from Kokichi, which made Shuichi interested. Reader had the same joyful energy but doesn't lie as much as Kokichi does

One shot or in headcanons about them (reader and Shuichi)

If there's anything else I should change let me know!

shuichi saihara x kokichi's friend!reader >> preferences ! > > [ mainly romantic] > > [slight angst]

BONUS + ‘ ultimate supreme leader ’ reader + specific preferences for killing game

｡˚ 𓂋 💤 photos by: hizoukii (on pinterest)

★ ahhh sorry this took a while. this was such a treat to write, and i hoped the preferences are to your liking :).

───── ✩ SHUICHI 

🗯️ ❭ ❭  you met kokichi a long time ago, just a few years after you were born. the connection ignited so quickly, almost as if it were fate. almost as if he was the soul that was meant to guide, help, and teach you. almost as if he was the soul that was meant to be a part of your struggles. as you two grew up together, he influenced you in some ways that would be a part of your identity, but never enough to have the same reputations. 

❕  when shuichi figured out that you and kokichi were closer than he realized at first, he had mixed emotions about this fact. the mixed emotions were fueled by some of his bitter views towards kokichi. the clear effect of kokichi’s influence on you was more clear to him now, yet not clear enough to be informed of the exact lengths of this influence.

❕  he can’t deny the interest that sparked as he witnessed your behavior. people were somewhat clouded by the fact that you’re just a kokichi, but tamer and less of an annoyance when it comes to lies. 

❕  he feels pulled in by your reputation. he feels an urge to push himself away from you, due to the thoughts that some things would fail, such as having a conversation with you or attempting to see you from a drastically different light. yet in the end of the day, he also felt more intrigued to discover the depths of you, and unravel the thoughts that blinded everyone.

❕  he feels as if he’s more likely to walk away from a conversation feeling less annoyed, and less puzzled by a bunch of lies being thrown at him that he’ll need to pick apart to find the truth, due to you lying less. he finds it even more interesting that you lie less, he wonders what other traits you picked up from kokichi that you express to a lesser extent than him?

❕  shuichi giving you a gift, or suggesting a place for you two to hang out, is always fun. though, one of the most interesting parts is the way you reveal your opinions on some gifts and suggestions. either you share about how your opinion contrasts or compares with kokichi’s thoughts on those things, or shuichi remembers what kokichi’s opinion on those things were. in the rarer moments, you tell shuichi about how kokichi influenced your opinion on some places or gifts.

❕  you’re a bit more blatant when it comes to opening up more than kokichi. you tell shuichi about the stories you’ve been told, the experiences you lived through, and the opinions you’ve gathered. it warms the both of you, and brings you two closer.

❕  with you telling some stories, it’s incredibly expected that you’ll talk about kokichi. going to you and hearing you, shuichi realizes he knows more about kokichi and his background. eventually, you help shuichi have a more-positive opinion towards kokichi, and help him realize some of kokichi’s traits that he hadn’t had a total grasp on before. 

❕  expect you two rambling about a bunch of stuff. shuichi can get insecure about rambling or overthinking about his observances and interests, yet most times you don’t mind it. overthinking, ranting, rambling, are one of the top things that strengthens the bond. he loves how passionate you can be about the things you dislike or like, and your energy as you speak.

❕  sometimes he’ll make a light-hearted joke or comment about how joyful or hyper your energy is. sometimes, he does feel a tad overwhelmed by your energy, or slightly intimidated, though that doesn’t mean that he doesn't find your energy cute. to an extent, he does find your energy admirable. the way you can bring liveliness to others and to him, the way you can bring the life out of him that he forgets about, is something so compelling about you.

❕  shuichi does get slight insecurities about the fact that he can’t always match up with your energy, even when your energy can make him secure at times. in his eyes, he isn’t so interesting, joyful, and even can be a debbie downer at times. of course, this motivates you to tell him the truth about your opinions on his energy and him as a person. 

❕  to you, he’s a bit of a refresher from all the people you attract (kokichi and D.I.C.E) and you feel so secure with him, he’s more grounded, so gentle and so observant. he can be so polite, yet he knows when things are too much and he tries to set boundaries. you love he has his unpredictable moments; how he expresses sass and heat towards someone being a bother (like miu), yet he turns soft a couple minutes later.

❕  sometimes he feels so happy by your presence, he just can’t help and blush. if you throw in a flirty comment (which sometimes you do), he’ll become a total blush and it reminds him about how your unpredictability can be a blessing and a curse.

❕  you help him see things in a positive light, or see the positive side of things. sometimes he helps you realize the cons and negatives of things. you totally help him have tolerance towards certain things (such as kokichi) and you help him associate some things he’s either neutral about, things he tolerate, or even things he dislikes with positivity (like specific movies, books, etc.), due to your joyful nature and/or opinions.

— IN GAME, things would get really tense the more kokichi’s lies and presence affect everyone. there’s kokichi being way more distant from you while also lashing out at you sometimes, as an attempt to keep you away from being involved in his plans and for you to not get the heavy burden of having kokichi’s exact reputation by being so close to him. there’s people avoiding you, dismissing you, having less patience with you, or even lashing out at times, because of your reputation being more damaged as the game goes on, especially when kokichi becomes cryptic or his lies become more stressful and/or harmful.

and then there’s shuichi, who’s struggling with others being negative towards you, struggling to be close to you around others, and struggling with not feeling somewhat tense with you due to kokichi’s actions. the internal conflict just brings more headaches, but he tries to set them aside because he knows you’re struggling and wants to bring comfort into your life. 

— IN GAME, since you possess kokichi’s leadership skills to an extent, you’ll act as a guide for shuichi, knowing that people look up to him. in fact, the longer you survive, the more likely shuichi will accept you as someone being a "co-leader" of sorts, and someone that others should look up to as well, which motivates some people to look up to you to an extent.

you two give each other life in different ways. you two give security to each other in different ways. there’s so many things you two do differently, yet you two always result in feeling safe with each other.

#danganronpa #danganronpa v3 #drv3 #ndrv3 #shuichi saihara #ndrv3 shuichi #drv3 shuichi #danganronpa fanfiction #preferences #fluff #shuichi saihara x reader #new danganronpa v3 #new danganronpa killing harmony #gender neutral reader #reader insert #shuichi x y/n #slight angst #fanfiction #danganronpa preferences #x reader

[writingquestionsanswered]

Hi! One of my characters spends the majority of the story on the side of the antagonists, but by the end eventually returns to the protagonists she’d previously betrayed, over a long redemption arc. However the betrayal happens during the first portion of the story, not before. She turns sides for a number of reasons, but the final push over the edge is the appearance of the main POV character, who has a (very big, very important) problem that the entire group sets out to fix. From the soon-betrayer character’s perspective, she feels like the rest of her group is favoring this new addition as their friend over her/no longer ‘need’ her. This obviously isn’t their intention, but I was wondering if you had any advice on portraying the group’s actions in a way that makes these assumptions plausible/not illogical, but at the same time not making the rest of the protagonists…basically look like assholes? Thank you for this blog! (also if it affects your answer, the ages of all the characters mentioned are between 16-20)

Alienated Character Betrays Group, Returns Later

While you can always go with a misunderstanding (the character misinterprets the group's actions/behavior/intentions with regard to both her and the other character), but even with a misunderstanding, I think there are some important questions to ask. First, if everyone else has accepted this character (to the extent the other character feels alienated), why hasn't the other character accepted them to that extent, too? Why does this character feel sidelined by the group when no one else does? It sounds like they feel particularly entitled to being needed by the group or being the center of their attention, and it's important for you to understand why that would be. What makes their entitlement, jealousy, and feeling of alienation logical to the situation? What was their previous relationship/situation that makes this make sense? The key is going to be to find something that doesn't make anyone look icky... like maybe the other character was always sort of a big sister figure/leader to the group. If this other character comes along and fills a similar role, it actually makes sense that the other character would feel sidelined and their jealousy isn't as icky at that point. It's coming from a place of hurt, not entitlement. So, those are definitely the things to keep in mind. As to the specific details, that will have to depend on the characters and the situation, but I think if you go with a misunderstanding (as in, the group still needs the other character/still views them as the big sister/leader despite the other character's contributions to the group) you absolve the group of looking like jerks. And, if you make sure the other character's jealousy and sense of being sidelined is coming from a place of hurt rather than entitlement, they'll be in the clear as well.

Happy writing!

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I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

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[esther-dot]

I’m a jonsa but I have to say one of my favorite scenes in GoT was Dany emerging from the fire in vaes dothrak and everyone bowing to her. I know people have issues with that scene but I don’t know. There was something about watching big men bowing to a tiny woman that resonated with me. As a woman it was such a big power play.

I don’t share your feelings on this, anon.

I can’t overstate how badly D&D’s Dany-centric view her story mangled the conversation it should have inspired. I think audiences should ask themselves if it it’s a good thing to admire someone who subjugates people through violence/threats of death, rather than recognize such a scene as a foil to say, the Northerners rising to their feet, to declare someone they chose as their leader?

I get that the scene seemed like female empowerment, but I truly don’t think we’re meant to end analysis at that instead of asking if we’re meant to support conquest for the sake of power/a crown? Perhaps if Dany hadn’t been happy to allow others to suffer (rape, slavery) as part of her war campaign it would have felt good, but as it was, she was engaging in the same behaviors that made us condemn others, so it’s hard to see her actions as a victory for women. It was a victory for her, sure. But did she better the situation for anyone else? Even her bid to end slavery is marked by a) her own use of forced, unpaid labor, b) her making money off of the slave trade ie she is what she claims to despise.

I suppose that’s all more clearly presented in the books, but since the endgoal of her actions was self-empowerment, not a netgood for others, I can't find it inspiring. The backdrop of this is Dany accepting the Targ view of everything, her entitlement to Westeros, her belief in blood superiority...it all becomes very icky to me. And that’s not even getting into everything fans and reviewers have noted about the racism in the writing of Dany’s storyline with the Dothraki.

Also, if we step away from GoT for a moment, generally, in a movie/show when someone comes into a holy site and destroys it, the audience is meant to view this as a desecration and the invader with horror. It’s a sign that they do not understand or respect the culture of the people, and if they do not, how can they be a good leader to them? They can’t. They will oppress them. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen it done in a way to indicate something good about the person who has no understanding or respect for the conquered or their way of life? So, I’d argue that this is something D&D took and carelessly stripped of all it’s layers in order to seduce fans into supporting Dany until the very end. I do understand why it seems empowering if we don’t think about it too much, but ultimately, I believe we were meant to respect the person who goes in and does the hard, thankless, totally unglamorous work of caring for their people’s essential needs and survival, not the person who can force subjugation through threats/violence.

It was disingenuous for D&D to say "needless wars and burning people alive here is good, but when she does it this time it's bad," and I think Martin has a much more basic, consistent thought that is, "warmongering and killing people in incredibly cruel ways isn’t the answer.” I understand why that is not as emotionally thrilling, but he seems very anti violence to me and very into the idea of peaceful compromise, even if at times, it means slow, painful progress.

#anti daenerys #dot chat #< tag to filter

[jknerd]

DISNEY STUDIO AU: Barby

(Genderbend Robert “Bobby” Zimmeruski~)

Full Name: Roberta Zimmeruski

Other Names: Barby Z, Barby

Schools: Mike Jay Middle School (graduated), Spooner Public High School (graduated), Oswald College of Arts/Music/Sports

Occuaption(s): X-Game Competitor (Maxine’s team), Student

Residence: Spoonerville, Ohio

Family: Mr. Zimmeruski (father), Mrs. Zimmeruski (mother), uncles and aunts, 10 cousins

Relationships: Maxine Goof (best friend), PJ Pete (best friend), Stanley Ampledexter (potential love-interest), Rox Hatchback (friend), The Gammas (rivaling team->occasionally friends), Fabrette Lewis (friend)

Likes: Cheeses, nacho chips, games, inline skating, MMA sports

Dislikes: Giving up, the Gammas’ entitled behaviors, Bradley’s arrogance

Abilities/Talents: Casual sports, fair sportsmanship, graffiti arts, language of Polish and Hebrew

Roberta “Barby” Zimmeruski is Maxine’s one of two best friends from same schools through their teenage years to current young adult years. Well-known with her obsession with all types of cheese, she is usually seen eating anything that has cheese in it. From Jewish-Polish descent, she can speak Polish or Hebrew fluently, but usually when communicating with her family members. 

She was first introduced in her, PJ and Maxine’s teenage years, quickly befriending them as she finds their love for casual sports as same as she does. Being one of the girls who were not considered feminine, she wasn’t in a popular crowd but always seen exhausted when dealing with the girls who have huge infatuations or admirations towards Maxine. When noticing Rox and Maxine shares same romantic feelings for one another yet unable to express them, Barby and PJ would often come up with plans to set them up. Being a most “chaotic” of trio, Barby is also not afraid to throw hands on whoever messes with her friends. Being one of few who is aware of Maxine’s identity as celebrity’s daughter, she and PJ are often seen teaming up to prevent anyone to find out the secret or chases out stalker/paparazzi who would have an audacity to sneak in Maxine’s house. In summer vacation, Barby was invited to Stanley’s house party to watch Powerline Concert Life pay-per-view and when seeing Maxine and her father danced with Powerline, she was one of the students cheering for her friend, but interrupted when bumping onto Stanley as they share brief but intense eye contact, foreshadowing a possibility of romance between them.

Years later as high school graduate bound for college, Barby, PJ and Maxine were preparing for the college, especially the upcoming X-Game. When departing, she drove to the college while PJ and Maxine were navigating. Despite the chaotic routes, they managed to arrive and Barby shared a same dorm room with Maxine. During the first day of college skating around the campus, they grabbed the attention of the X-Games champion team/Fraternity; “the Gammas”. Although, their leader Bradley was more interested in recruiting Maxine. When Maxine rejected the offer, two teams formed an immediate rivalry. Later, she expressed confusion and surprise to see Goofy as their instructor in “Entertainment Business” and “Performing Arts”. During fierce confrontation between Maxine and Bradley, Barby was prone to beat up the Gammas when Bradley insulted Goofy as they laughed, but impressed when Maxine retaliated with aggression causing to destroy Bradley’s shirt, and confusion when Bradley escaped the scene in fear. She expressed joy to see Rox and Stanley attending same college, but at the same time VERY amused with how the relationship of Maxine goes when it comes to Rox, Monroe and Bradley. In the X-game competition, Barby was excelled in rock-climbing and inline-skating as she managed to pass to the finals. During the final, she was out of the game due to the malfunctioning of the bicycle but seen in the infirmary later. Soon, she aided Goofy and others in helping Maxine, Bradley and Tank out of the burning blimp due to the scheme of Mr. Uppercrust and eventually congratulated Maxine’s victory. Along with Maxine, PJ and the Gammas, she was seen glaring at Mr. Uppercrust as Goofy calls him out for endangering others and chose his greed over his son’s safety. Although Gammas struggle with their declining popularity, Barby initially refuse to associate with them until she was assigned in partnership for the course’s project with one of the Gammas team named Thomas Churman. Later, Barby became open about interacting or befriending the Gammas as she witness a growing reformation of the team.

Other than cheese, as Barby aged, she loves to drink and is highly tolerant with the alcohols. During the party, Barby was seen winning a drinking contest against three BEST members who were known for strong drinker; Tank, Slouch and Thomas, as they were either no longer able to drink or passed out. Sometimes, she is also seen watching the MMA sports show with them.

#Goofy Movie #Goofy Movie AU #Goof Troop #Goof Troop AU #An Extremely Goofy Movie #An Extremely Goofy Movie AU #Bobby #Robert Zimmeruski #genderbend #Roberta Zimmeruski #Barby Zimmeruski

[nitrochiralfan]

[Slow Damage] He finally smiled like a child (Analysis on Nitro + Chiral’s new game)

酒酿团子 写网文的 创作声明: 内容包含剧透

I do not own this post of the translation all credit goes to the original owner of the post and tiramisiyu for translating this. the original post is here

“Those who are lucky have already been healed in childhood, while the unlucky spend their lives healing from childhood.”

After eight days of sleeping five hours per day, I finally completed my first clear of Slow Damage’s full story. I realized that I don’t really have a solid interpretation of the plot yet, and I just wanted to share my feelings with you.

SPOILER WARNING!!

My overall thoughts: I think this is the greatest of Kabura Fuchii’s five works. This is a story whose title is about pain, yet it tells the story of extricating yourself from pain. It’s a truly healing story.

Now, I’ll give a rough summary of the plot of each route based on my order of in-game progression, and analyze it together with the hidden story.

First of all, let me briefly talk about Towa. Towa is one of the illegitimate sons of the man who is the leader of the Takasato Group and the governor of Shinkoumi, and he has little impression of his father. He’s characterized as being very lazy and dispirited. Although he works part-time in the clinic with close acquaintance Dr. Taku, that’s only because he’s forced to. He drinks and smokes daily, sometimes grabs a coffee, and hates eating.

He has only two other hobbies: drawing and being subjected to abuse. Towa is bruised all over and even lost his right eye, but he likes to be subjected to violence, including violent sex. His art pieces are also different from the ordinary, as he views the world differently compared to normal people. He can see the colored "Aura" of people's emotions, which changes according to emotional fluctuations. He’s also able to manipulate people's hearts by observing their Aura to discover the perverted, unactualizable desires people have. Towa's paintings are based on the actualization of such unspeakable desires, and the paintings he draws are very popular.

Rei route: I never thought that a drunkard who used to pass out in random dark alleys would ever be able to enjoy the view of the sea.

The Rei Route is the least relevant to the main storyline. It basically revolves around the conflict between Rei and his father.

Rei's personality is that of a male motherly figure. He uses feminine terms of self-address, is good at cooking, and spends all day telling Towa that he can’t drink too much, asking whether Towa has eaten, and so on. Towa himself has complained to him that "you are such a mom".

At the same time, Rei is a very ambitious kid. After graduating from high school, he worked several jobs and lived comfortably in Shinkomi, where the income gap is massive. Rei has two hobbies: body modification, as well as going to "Deathmatch" (a place where people find opponents to fight with, for stress relief and fun). Rei may be very feminine, but he fights quite fiercely.

In this route, Rei suddenly learned that his father, who had long since cut him off, had borrowed 300 million yen from the Takasato Group for gambling purposes, and forced him to repay the debt on the grounds of their biological relationship. If Rei refused to pay his debts, his father would be killed.

Rei and his father had huge conflicts when he was young. As a mixed-race child, Rei had always been beautiful - but he was bullied by the school, and later realized that he liked men. Knowing this, Rei's father said "Your male side has already died", which almost caused the young Rei to force himself to live as a woman in order to rationalize his behavior. Later, he also chose to run away from the family.

After learning about his debt, not only did Rei's father not repent for his wrongs, but he even brazenly sought out Rei, coercing him to repay the debt using their biological relationship. Rei hated his father very much, but deep inside, he didn’t want his father to die. Thus, he had no choice but to be lured by the Takasato Group into participating in a competition - or so they described it, but it was more like a gladiatorial sport that the slaves of Ancient Rome participated in, where the rich bet on the lives and deaths of the fighters. Winning meant gaining a large sum of money, but losing meant death. Embroiled in emotional agony, Rei chose to participate.

Although Rei is a very popular, sociable person, he kept all this a secret from his friends and chose to suffer alone. Of course, at the climax of the last round, all his friends came to the scene to cheer for him. Even his father reflected on his actions after seeing his son put his life on the line for him. Rei then won the competition.

There are three general conflicts in this route: the first is the conflict between Rei and his father, the second is the conflict between Rei and his inner desire to be accepted as a man, and the third is how Rei hid the truth from his friends.

The relationship between Rei and his father seems outwardly to be filled with hatred - but we see him nearly sacrifice himself to repay the debt, and deny his identity as a man because of a few words from his father. This implies that Rei actually loves his father, longing for his father's approval and love like a child. I think this is actually a nod to Towa's relationship with her mother Maya in the hidden ending.

Rei's father ultimately realized his love for his son, and I think if the story continued, Rei would ultimately take Towa to stand in front of his father as a man and introduce him as his lover. His father would then give them his blessings with a smile.

In this line, Towa is basically Rei's emotional support. He pointed out that Rei did not trust the friends around him enough. Later, Towa and Sakaki (the next leader of the Takasato Group, someone who cared about Towa as his father’s friend) won the 300 million yen, and paid off the debt for Rei.

This line mainly discusses how a damaged person accepts himself and learns to trust and rely on those around him. It also discusses reconciliation with the perpetrator.

Taku Route: My answer is, I'm here now.

Compared to the Rei route, which is like a passionate shounen manga, I personally think that the Taku route is second only to the oppressiveness of the Fujieda route.

Taku is 20 years older than Towa, and has been Towa's doctor since Towa was a child. If Rei is a male mother who would nag at Towa about his bad lifestyle, then Taku is Towa's "father". He treats Towa more as an adult and doesn’t interfere much, but since he watched Towa grow up, he’s sometimes overprotective of Towa too.

This route comes from the entanglement between Asakura (Taku's college senior) and a child named Hayato. Hayato is the child of a woman from the entertainment district, and Asakura is a doctor with an excessive love for children. As he lacked in love, Hayato couldn’t resist seeking out and even seducing Asakura. Asakura ends up mistakenly believing that he is attracted to children.

The story of Asakura actually alludes to the relationship between Towa and Taku in youth. Taku has only ever displayed care for Towa, but the seeds of his desire were actually planted when Towa was young. This was why the ever-calm Towa called Asakura out for being a pervert with unexpected force after hearing about it (hitting him where it hurts, haha).

This route is mostly set during the change in leadership of the Takasato Group. Although Sakaki is supposed to be the next leader of the Takasato Group, he also has a competitor, Toono. There is also a connection between Toono and Taku - to threaten Taku, Toono drugged Towa (yes, it’s exactly what you’re thinking) - I guess this is the one time that Toono’s ever had? After the two of them had a good time, Towa ran away and met Igarashi, one of Sakaki's subordinates. Igarashi told Towa that he stole a drug that seemed to be a new type from Taku's secret underground surgery room.

To cover Igarashi, Towa led Toono's people into an abandoned area in Shinkomi. Toono wanted to shoot Towa dead when Taku suddenly appeared and shielded Towa. When Towa saw Taku fall unconscious, he felt for the first time that he regarded Taku as an irreplaceable existence in his life. Toono then took both of them back to his lair.

Towa learned from Toono that Taku was a son of a wealthy family. Because his parents divorced and his mother fell sick, he decided to study medicine. It was Toono who helped him when he was in trouble, allowing him to become a doctor. Toono then asked Taku to work for the Takasato Group and himself. Those who owe money to the Takasato Group are called debtors. These people are implanted with tracking chips, allowing the Takasato Group to control them. Taku does these things in his underground operating room and also developed a highly addictive drug for Toono. Toono wanted to use this drug to make a lot of money, to gain the strength to fight against Sakaki.

To prevent Taku from acting rashly, Toono took control of Towa and changed Towa into women's clothes (which looked really good). At first glimpse, Taku thought he was looking at Maya. Toono told Towa that Taku was obsessed with Maya when he was young. The straight Toono was also interested in Towa in women’s clothes and asked Towa to be his mistress. Towa agreed in order to gain some freedom.

Towa managed to get in touch with Eiji, Sakaki's subordinate and intelligence officer, and let him know about Toono’s plan. Eiji told him to wait, as they already had a plan. During this period, Towa was under suspicion due to his behavior, and was beaten by Toono and his men several times (it made me so sad) and even had his right arm broken. Taku was very distressed to see this, but he was even angrier knowing that Towa has become Tono's mistress. Taku felt that he could not protect those he valued, so he considered killing Towa and sacrificing himself.

After Towa persuaded Taku against his idea, Taku explained the cause of his depression. He originally intended to become a doctor to help people like his mother, but his mother died due to a moment of his negligence, which became his most painful memory. He owed Toono, yet Toono used Towa to threaten him to make harmful drugs, to which he could not resist. Towa told him that he had contacted Eiji and said that if Taku didn’t want him to, he’d stop being Toono’s mistress - and the two, well…

Finally, after receiving word from Eiji, the two escaped with the help of Eiji’s mole. They ran into Toono, who refused to submit. Toono raised his gun to kill Taku, but Towa shot first, knocking Toono’s gun to the ground. After subduing Toono, Taku took Towa's gun and pointed it at Toono. The bullet shot out, but it only hit Toono’s ear. Taku said that he may not be a good person, but he hasn’t fallen to Tono's level.

After the dust had settled, Taku decided to turn himself in. Before he left, he showed Towa the photo he took of Towa when he was young - a picture of a smiling, bashful child. Taku was sentenced to two years in prison, but was released a year earlier due to good behavior. During this year, Towa stayed at home in the studio, relying on Rei to feed him.

On the day Taku was released from prison, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. Taku walked out of the prison and was pleasantly surprised to see Towa had come to pick him up, just like the old days. Towa suddenly remembered that when the two were making love at Tono's place, Taku had something to say to him, so he asked about it. Embarrassed, Taku said that people were always coming and going around him, but he wanted Towa to stay by his side. With a laugh, Towa said, “My answer is, I’m here now.”

On a surface level for this route, Taku was the only support Towa had in childhood - the one who stitched up every wound for Towa. But when you think about it, Taku was also one of the people who hurt Towa back then.

In such an environment, doing nothing is allowing harm to happen. He indulged Towa as Towa relied on him, and even developed desires for him (see Asakura). From an outsider’s perspective, is that not harm done by an adult to a child? Taku knew well that he had done something wrong to Towa. What he regretted the most was working for the Takasato Group - not just for Toono, but probably also for Maya. Taku is the most passive (getting drugged) character among all characters with routes. I personally think this has something to do with his guilt towards Towa.

If the Rei route is about accepting oneself and relying on those around you to heal, then the Taku route is about avoiding pain, and transferring the memory of pain to someone else. Taku chose to remember everything about Towa's childhood alone, and therefore also took on some of Towa’s pain. The accident of Taku's mother's death may also imply that Towa is partly responsible for Maya’s death.

Taku's love for Towa is mixed with guilt and obsession, humble and remorseful. From Towa’s perspective, you can only see the tip of the iceberg, and only after you see the whole picture can you understand the scars hidden in this route. Madarame Route: No need for words between us.

Fujieda Route: We don't just lick each other's wounds. We also support each other as we walk forward.

(I’ll continue updating in the future. If you’re interested, feel free to follow or bookmark it)

#slow damage #towa slow damage #slowdamage #takuma murase #Rei Izumi #meta #surodame

[phlve]

Sociotype Profiles — SLE

Ego

Leading Se

SLEs are strong-willed, independently-minded individuals who are able to recognize levels of willpower and motivation in others. They are almost always collected and ready for action. They are adept at organizing others effectively towards any given objective, and have no problem "getting the job done," even if it requires stepping on a few toes. They will take the initiative and act at the opportune moment. SLEs will often act without complete information, improvising as they go, but are successful nonetheless. Instability energizes them, as they are active people who think clearly on the move and tend to be unsatisfied with a stationary, peaceful lifestyle.

SLEs easily spot power dynamics within any given structure, hierarchy or relationship, and strive for a secure position where they are less subordinate to others. At the same time, SLEs are comfortable with hierarchies, and recognize that they are a necessary part of everyday life. SLEs may sometimes seem dismissive of those of a lower social status, as if they were weak or inferior in some way. Likewise, they see dependence as weakness, and so strive to minimize their dependence on others, especially in their personal relationships.

SLEs' energetic and direct nature tends to make them natural leaders. They are quick to assume this role, even in alien or unfamiliar environments. They usually adopt a direct administrative style and build a bureaucratic structure beneath them over time. They will take full responsibility for their actions, and understand these terms when they take a leadership-based role within a group, company or organization as being part of what leadership is about.

SLEs are highly observant and take note of all the objects present in their surroundings. They are well aware of which objects they have, and which they want, and tend to be possessive of their property. At the same time, they also have a generous streak and can easily bestow gifts and share their property with others to demonstrate acceptance of the other person or people.

Creative Ti

SLEs are inquisitive people. They are generally clear, consistent and systematic in their actions. They value competency and have an appreciation for method, viewing these things as vehicles through which strength, power and influence are demonstrated, values that SLEs consider important.

While SLEs see logical systems and structured views as necessary in life, they will often view said systems and views as changeable or expendable. Their use of Ti is flexible. They tend to gather - either legitimately or illegitimately - and retain information which they deem useful in attaining their goals.

SLEs come to their own conclusions about the world, although they tend towards simple generalizations. Because the SLE's ideas are influenced by their own agenda, they can be more subjective than they claim to be; they are skilled at using objective truths to help them achieve their goals. It can be very difficult to argue with an SLE; rarely will they submit to another's logic, since they believe that their own logic is so well developed. SLEs will often refuse to take others' advice - even to their own detriment - as they can have difficulty seeing viewpoints that differ from their own (though this may also be a matter of pride). They also have the tendency to compare others' plans to their own, and because of their confidence, will often consider them inferior or offer critique from their own point of view.

Super-Ego

Role Ne

SLEs are largely unaware of others' hidden potential and abilities, since they size up people based on visible qualities and behavior. As a result, their judgments of people may appear simplistic or one-dimensional, and they may seriously misjudge or underestimate the capabilities of others, leading to surprises and sometimes rude awakenings. Likewise, SLEs may fail to recognize long-term opportunities in the world around them as they pursue the more readily visible and immediately available routes to success.

To make up for their weakness in assessment of possibilities, SLEs may hesitate to act, believing that they are increasing the amount of opportunities they will have. Instead, they end up using none, thus failing to attain the results they were aiming for. In this sense, the SLE would have been much better off following his instincts in the first place. Many SLEs are aware of this, and simply prefer not to search for hidden opportunities and avoid this weakness altogether.

When it comes to future planning, SLEs speak with confidence and apparent optimism, although in actuality, they rarely feel confident in positive outcomes and further possibilities. They may also consider advanced planning unnecessary for trivial circumstances, as they prefer to act impulsively.

Despite their highly observant nature, SLEs are careful to avoid appearing too eager for knowledge. They become suspicious when others are overly curious about them and ask too many searching questions. SLEs are more comfortable asking and responding to specific questions that are relevant to the context rather than general ones whose purpose is unknown. When the information being exchanged is too broad and general, SLEs may wonder what the point is or whether someone is planning to use that information to take advantage of them. Concerns about revealing too much information about themselves and their activities sometimes makes SLEs appear paranoid and secretive.

Vulnerable Fi

SLEs have trouble evaluating the internal emotional state of others unless it is accompanied by a visible emotional expression. When unable to do so, they become uneasy. When an individual expresses negative emotions, SLEs feel that they are unable to offer the support needed; they get uncomfortable and confused, and as a result, will not respond appropriately to the situation or will react in a way which is unhelpful to the individual. SLEs themselves constantly seem emotionally guarded, and so very rarely will anyone actually have the chance to "comfort" the SLE in the everyday use of the word. The best way to do so is to let the emotion run its course.

SLEs often tread carefully when it comes to interpersonal relationships because they recognize their inherent weakness in this function. They feel the need to not only be respected, but also to be held dear by others, precisely because they feel inept when it comes to relationships. Often their behavior will have the opposite effect of what they were hoping for; if they are trying to protect someone, that someone may view their "protection" as pure jealousy, and thus will attempt to break away. The SLE will respond with further limitations in order to counter what they believe is irrational rebelliousness, perhaps causing a breakdown of said relationship. Despite this, SLEs can without extra effort manage to maintain a superficial - purely physical or formal - relationship. Their IEI duals, however, have an understanding of SLEs; they know how to react with Fe in accordance with the SLE's mood, and thereby tactfully avoid incurring any misunderstanding.

To ease their doubts about their relationships with others, SLEs are sincere when it comes to establishing new bonds with others; they feel it is important to inform others of their true nature so that they will not be taken by surprise when the SLE acts in a certain way. Likewise, the SLE will often prefer to take the initiative in establishing new friendships and relationships. This is partly due to the fact that SLEs fear psychological distance; taking a more upfront and aggressive approach would allow him to more accurately observe those around him, while removing the possibility of one's gradual avoidance of the SLE.

SLEs are under the impression that they might gain respect or admiration from others, but can never be truly loved by anyone. Sometimes, SLEs can become paranoid about their relationships with others; they often mistrust declarations of affection, and so can appear insecure.

Super-Id

Suggestive Ni

Since SLEs are such active, action-oriented individuals, they are often far more confident about their present situation than its broader implications. SLEs are attracted to people who can unearth connections between ideas and occurrences, thus collecting the "snapshots" of the present offered by SLEs and fitting them into a broader understanding of reality. SLEs long for a sense of some greater meaning in their lives beyond the immediately physical or material. They admire people who feel part of something greater than themselves and are not so dependent on the material world around them.

SLEs often develop their suggestive function through an interest in that which is hidden, mysterious, or eccentric. Learning about and discussing these things helps them overcome their habit of making quick assumptions, and gives them a more profound understanding of the world around them.

The SLE is impulsive, but at the same time quite conscious of the need to keep his impulsivity in check. He thus appreciates people who are confident in their ability to predict where present trends are leading and to pinpoint when to initiate action and when to refrain from it.

Mobilizing Fe

SLEs find themselves unable to adequately raise an emotionally dull atmosphere, which is why they greatly appreciate another individual proficient in this function. SLEs naturally gravitate towards warm, cheerful atmospheres. If an SLE makes a social move that doesn't get the emotional response he expects, he will feel uneasy or offended e.g. if no one laughs at a joke he tells.

In large groups or groups of new acquaintances, SLEs sometimes inadvertently estrange themselves from everyone else, which may give off a negative impression. The SLE may assume this contrary attitude in order to seek Fe while preserving the atmosphere of the group. If another individual shows acceptance of the SLE, he will immediately brighten and join the now warmer emotional mood. Alternatively, if the SLE fails to receive the desired emotional cues, he will further distance himself from the situation, highly averse to "being a drag" to the group dynamic.

There seems to be an "emotional contradiction" with the SLE; there is a constant internal struggle to both reveal to others their true feelings and a desire to guard themselves from adverse people or situations. He finds it extremely difficult - almost unnatural - to express his deepest feelings about an experience he's had. SLEs try to avoid looking vulnerable, weak or dependent, which is why they appear to be such closely guarded individuals. SLEs will, like any other logical type, attempt to keep their feelings under control and subordinate to their reasoning. They refuse to let their emotions complicate professional relationships, and make a conscious effort to maintain the same emotionality with all.

SLEs are unable to suppress the manifestations of their moods, and thus greatly appreciate individuals who can deal with their sudden, uncontrollable outbursts of emotions. For many SLEs, expressive activities such as acting, musical performance or even religion serve as ideal "ethical vents", helping to give them the emotional release they struggle to find in other areas of society.

Id

Ignoring Si

SLEs are aware of how something makes them feel, but give little concern to it. (They will not, however, refrain from expressing their physical attraction or desire towards another individual.)

SLEs effortlessly manage to create an environment of comfort for themselves, but this comfort extends to very little, as they see no need to occupy themselves with creating excessively cozy atmospheres. As long as SLEs are not overly unhealthy or malnourished, they're unconcerned with what they eat and drink. SLEs are quite capable of living with the bare minimum and not feeling disturbed or unsettled by their circumstances. This gives the SLE the ability to ignore discomfort and tedium, powering through such obstacles in order to accomplish their goals.

Demonstrative Te

SLEs have the ability to pick out information which will help them achieve a goal; they will often refer to well-known facts, statistics and historical examples to back up their claims. Often their own viewpoint will remain standing in the face of a majority opinion, as they know how to formulate a strong argument. SLEs will often question the authenticity or reliability of informational sources, preferring not to use those which are doubtful or which have been proven wrong in the past. They enjoy learning about a wide variety of things, and are motivated by the prospect of rewards and status; they like to prove their authority and skills e.g. through a large amount of academic awards or extra curricular certificates.

SLEs are very practical, hard-working individuals. They know how to utilize their time effectively in order to reach any given goal, and have no problem discerning efficiency and utility from incompetence and uselessness. Nonetheless, they retain a kind of "don't care" attitude when it comes to productivity and effectiveness. They feel that it is a waste of time to sit around and discuss efficiency, and would rather act effectively. SLEs may playfully mock those who they believe are "obsessed" with productivity, efficiency or effective action.

SLEs often assume the role of someone who is always ready to assist people in their practical affairs, even to the point of others' annoyance or offense to the SLE's obtrusiveness (which is simply enthusiasm to the SLE). They enjoy receiving thanks for their services, and take full responsibility for their actions. Their intentions towards others in this area are generally always good.

Source: Wikisocion

#personality theory #personality types #typology #socionics #sociotypes #sle #estp

[the-timeless-founder]

Out of respect for this person who wished to keep their identity a secret but asked me a few questions, you're gonna see some random reaction stuff here. Starting with this one:

Thank you so much for the questions though, it means the world to me ❤️🥺

Saeclus and the Sakamaki Brothers

Shu:

He knew Shu at a young age too, although barely. They had seen each other in the few times Saeclus visited the Vampire Clan's royal castle as a diplomat. And he liked Shu a lot as a kid.

Shu was energetic, talented and strong, so Saeclus really viewed him in a similar lens as Carla (despite them having vastly different personalities, even as kids, they do share some traits) and had high hopes for his future.

He also told Shu once that he wanted to hear him play the violin.

Flash forward to a few centuries and they meet again. Saeclus is absolutely astounded at how much Shu has changed since the last time they met. And not in a positive way.

He's almost disappointed in what became of a promising young man, but then again, an environment as toxic as his was bound to fuck him up one way or the other.

Still though, Shu and Saeclus get along well. Saeclus himself is very artistic and hated the pressures of being a military leader as a young man, so he and Shu have a lot they can talk about. And both of them are comfortable in silence too, they don't have to talk much.

Eventually, Shu does play violin for him sometime. Saeclus loves and absolutely encourages it. He knows it's a bit too late for that kind of energy, but he provides it nonetheless.

Even now, Saeclus is a little impressed by some of the things Shu does - and how despite being known as lazy and useless, he still commands authority in the house - and believes he is the one who will claim the throne someday.

Reiji:

While Saeclus never really saw Reiji as a child, like he did Shu, Reiji did see him visit the palace and have brief exchanges with his older brother sometimes.

Honestly, adult Reiji reminds him of Caranthus. Like... A lot. A painful lot.

It's not that this makes him dislike Reiji - far from it, actually - but it does make him have a faraway look on his face every time their conversations end. Which may or may not leave Reiji with a questioning look in his eyes.

Saeclus knows a lot about the Demon World, more than almost any other Demon, through hundreds of years of studying and experiences. So if anything, Reiji understands that he has a lot he could learn from him.

He's also smart enough to not badmouth Saeclus. Unlike the triplets, he knows of what his rage would be like. He's not risking that, thank you very much.

Saeclus doesn't know what Reiji has done to Yuma and his village, but his opinion of him would vastly deteriorate if he were to find out.

Ayato:

He doesn't know shit about who Saeclus is. At all. My guy is expecting to become King of the Vampires at this rate too.

The first time he meets Saeclus is as an adult, and he's immediately put off by the fact that he's a First Blood. That being said, he is wearing red. So Ayato's willing to be a little polite.

Saeclus is very confused by Ayato's air of arrogance, and two seconds into his introduction, he's already figured him out. Overcompensating for insecurities and incompetence.

And that is something that leaves a bad taste in Saeclus' mouth. Because of the Founders and their blatant arrogance and idiocy.

So while Ayato annoys him with his behavior, Saeclus is trying his best to be lenient with him. I promise, he's doing his best.

So yeah basically. Ayato annoys him, but he's willing to bear with him because it is kind of funny how he shoots one ball through a designated hoop and thinks he's the king of the world.

Kanato:

Like... How do I...

In the nicest way possible, Kanato both angers him and makes him feel sympathetic.

He is repulsed by the thought of Kanato's behavior towards certain things, like his mother's ashes or the brides' corpses, and at the same time, he understands that it makes sense in Kanato's own fucked up head.

And it's weird, my dude, he doesn't know how to feel about this little freak.

One minute he's thinking of incinerating him on sight, and the next he feels bad because he can practically taste the bitter loneliness of being Kanato.

The way he acts like a kid and talks to his bear because no one else would talk to him makes Saeclus really sad.

And then he remembers how he drags ghosts out of tombstones to literally frighten helpless girls and he feels less sad.

They have a weirdass relationship. I don't think Kanato would ever really approach Saeclus, one wrong word from him could potentially set the man off and he isn't risking death... Yet.

Laito:

Again, in the nicest way possible, Laito either grosses and freaks Saeclus out or makes him feel pained and uneasy with sorrow.

His behavior towards women is inexcusable in Saeclus' eyes, and he tells him as much. Not that he expects Laito to care, even if he is considering burning him to a crisp while he speaks, but he had a feeling that wasn't all there was to it.

So he did some - because he's a curious soul at the end of it all - and found some clarity through hushed whispers and behavioral patterns.

He doesn't know exactly what happened to Laito, but he has an idea of it, and he isn't sure if he ever wants to know if it's true or not. Because the thought alone haunts him in the dead hours of the night.

Now, to be clear, Saeclus doesn't think this excuses or justifies any of Laito's actions. In fact, as someone who has experienced something similar on a much smaller scale, he expects Laito to become more empathetic.

Still, Laito's behavior towards women (or people in general) disturbs Saeclus and repulses him, so he tends to keep interactions with Laito to a minimum. Plus, he doesn't like the way Laito's always trying to figure him out.

But he can't quite bring himself to end Laito because of that same twisted sense of empathy he feels.

Long story short: it's complicated but if Laito makes another attempt at putting one of those hideous hats on his head, Saeclus will burn him to ashes. He won't hesitate, bitch.

Subaru:

Ah yes. Subaru also saw Saeclus, extremely briefly, as a young child.

He was wandering the gardens while Saeclus took a walk through them, and he was seen by the older man quite quickly.

He didn't stay around to chat - actually bolted almost immediately after being spotted - but he does remember seeing Saeclus' eyes soften at the sight of him. Still wonders why.

His anger issues, in the present, often exasperate Saeclus more than anything else. He isn't necessarily annoyed - if he's being non-biased, Shin is just as prone to an outburst as Subaru - and he's also not enjoying this.

But when Subaru's on one of his more peaceful days - or is feeling a bit shy around Saeclus - he thinks of him as a rather cute boy.

Saeclus loves nature, and by default, flowers. So it's quite often that Subaru and Saeclus have a chat on the subject away from any eavesdropping sleazebags. Subaru's worried he'd be made fun of.

Saeclus honestly doesn't mind Subaru, he's fine. Sure, he could - and should - work on that temper of his and stop throwing tantrums every time something goes south, but other than that he's okay.

You can catch Saeclus giving Subaru a lecture on why a small mistake does not put his overall ability in question, and how to start working on himself to become more confident. And seeing a demon like Saeclus might help Subaru, you know with the whole "because I'm a demon" thought process.

Honestly, I am not very confident in writing for canon characters, so if you think my portrayal can be improved in any way, do tell me! I hope you enjoyed this post ❤️

#diabolik lovers oc #saeclus sanguine #diabolik lovers #diabolik oc #saeclus #dl oc #my oc #shu sakamaki #shu #reiji sakamaki #reiji #ayato sakamaki #ayato #kanato sakamaki #kanato #laito sakamaki #laito #subaru sakamaki #subaru #headcanons

[elpiething]

Inter-Sect Politics for the Absolute Beginner

Rated : M, for subject matter. Pairing : Wangxian Summary: Today, with a formal missive from Koi Tower in hand and Zonghui staring at him with open concern, Nie Mingjue throws his head back and laughs and knows that no request will ever bring him such joy: Sect Leader Jin Guangshan has been brutally assaulted and, due to a conflict of interest, the Jin sect begs the assistance of the Honorable Sect Leader Nie Mingjue in the search for justice. - Wei Ying was raised in a brothel in Yunping, and Sect Leader Jin is having a very bad day.

Read it on Ao3 here.

This is, undeniably, the best day of Nie Mingjue’s life.

One might reasonably contend that a better candidate would be the day he first formed his golden core, when his father threw a feast for the entire clan and poured wine for him with a proud smile on his face, or the day a tiny Nie Huaisang declared Mingjue his favorite.

Or perhaps the day Lan Xichen first shared one of his small, private smiles with him.

These would all be more reasonable candidates.

But today, with a formal missive from Koi Tower in hand and Zonghui staring at him with open concern, he throws his head back and laughs and knows that no request will ever bring him such joy:

Sect Leader Jin Guangshan has been brutally assaulted and, due to a conflict of interest, the Jin sect begs the assistance of the Honorable Sect Leader Nie Mingjue in the search for justice.

The letter is penned in the flourishing calligraphy of Yun Heiwa, Madam Jin, as her husband cannot presently sit down to write.

His crops are watered, his line is secure, and he’s going to kiss whoever did this on the lips.

-

Wei Ying is not by nature a violent young man—he is far too lovely to have ever needed to resort to violence. In fact, half of the regular patrons at the Blue Pearl are in the habit of greeting him as Ying’er : Little Baby.

It does not bother him as it might bother others: he was raised here, and so he is, in theory, a baby to many of those who have worked at and frequented the place for years.

When Meng Shi brought him to the madam nearly a decade ago, savaged and starving after another unfortunate encounter with a street cur, the woman’s steady heart had wavered, and, A-Yao assures him, dimples in full force, he has made it everyone’s problem ever since.

He is almost old enough, now, to undergo his Petal Ceremony and become a proper courtesan, but for now he brings alcohol, plays his dizi, and hazes Uncle Bo, who comes often just to avoid being home.

But he is pretty all the same, and has his fair share of offers from men who are new enough to view him as a sexual object and not a lanky goblin who may or may not be hiding fireworks in his robes.

Most days, rude guests have more to fear from him than he does from them.

But he is still Ying’er, so when a group of gold-robed Jin storm in, Auntie Sisi pulls him aside and urges him to fetch more alcohol, more peanuts, anything to get him out of the room for whatever nonsense is soon to come.

“Did you hear?” Chie whispers to him as he passes her in the hall, “Sect Leader Jin is here with them!”

Tao’er, blissfully new and still starry-eyed about the idea of a noble patron, joins them with a sweet smile. “They should be on their best behavior, then!”

“Ufff, Tao’er. We should pray for anything but. I would sooner host a howling monkey than that lecher!”

“Is the sect leader truly so ill-behaved?”

“Keep away from him. He’ll lie to you or leave you injured, and you can’t afford either. He’s fathered countless bastards, and not all of them are so loved as our A-Yao.”

And that’s about when Wei Ying remembers that Meng Shi is working lead today.

Meng Shi, the woman who cradled him against her body as she chased the dogs away. The woman who tucked him in beside her own son, full and warm and unafraid for the first time in months, and said, until your mother comes for you, okay?

And then never took it back.

Meng Shi who called him little baby and meant my baby, and urged A-Yao to hold his hand and show him the best shortcuts to duck in and out of, and exactly how to coax the cook into fattening them both up.

Meng Shi, who is even now forced to flatter a man who thinks her good enough to bed, but never to acknowledge.

Wei Ying often causes little problems on purpose. He is sure he can invent one that Meng Shi is urgently needed to fix.

-

And things may well have progressed that way, had Jin Guangshan not been a complete waste of sperm and gold thread.

Sect Leader Jin is known for his taste in ladies—sweet, demure, round-faced, and delicate. Which is not Wei Ying at all, but evidently, he is drunk enough for Wei Ying’s figure to blur in his eye.

Wei Ying kneels by their table, waiting for Meng Shi’s attention, gaze lowered as he calls, “Jiejie—” For in the presence of guests, no one is ‘Aunty,’ “I’m so sorry to interrupt.”

Meng Shi lifts her sleeve, speaking to him from behind a veil of mystery, but he can see the way her throat works, the way her eyes fill with concern. “Of course, Ying’er, what do you need?”

“The Madam needs to speak with you. She says you’re needed urgently.”

Hua Rong will forgive him, all things considered. She can be harsh, but she’s always had a soft spot for him, in equal turns charming, silly, and undeniably helpful. Wei Ying has always been strong.

Meng Shi’s shoulders soften, and he can feel her smiling at him, but the expression dies when Sect Leader Jin slams his cup down on the table.

“Who’s the little beauty, then?” He smiles, beckoning with his bony, ring-laden fingers. “Come closer, let us look at you.”

Meng Shi hurries to intervene. “Ah, Sect Leader, Ying’er has not had his Petal Ceremony. He is not yet available to entertain a guest of your caliber.”

This is a fair statement.

It is the absolute truth.

It still manages to displease the conceited piece of shit enough to bring those ugly rings to bear on the gentle courtesan’s face. He stumbles to his feet to shout down at her. “Who are you to tell me who’s ‘available’, ha? I didn’t ask to bed the little slut!”

Which is around when Wei Ying decides that he does not at all mind the idea of a short life if it means throwing this man out the nearest window.

And so he, too, rises rabbit-quick and lunges to grab the offending hand. Keep it still. Maybe snap it off.

One less man—one less terrible man trying to touch his mother.

Sweet, kind Meng Shi who’s never done a thing wrong but give this sentient pile of filth the time of day. And, perhaps, care too much about her idiot fosterling. “Baobei, no.” She cries, and Wei Ying stills at the ugly smile that oozes onto her assailant’s face.

The room around them has grown very quiet.

“‘Baobei,’” He drawls. “Meng Shi, is this your son? You told me about him once, didn’t you? It’s always hard to keep track of the cattle.”

Wei Ying refuses to falter as leering eyes rove over him like so much meat.

“He doesn’t look like me.”

Wei Ying’s lip curls, ugly, and another drunken Jin calls, “No, no, it must be that one! He has the sect leader’s eyes!”

He is pointing, of course, to Meng Yao, who freezes mid-stride on his path to placate the rowdy patrons. “Sir…” He says, bowing his head to hide his gaze, undoubtedly reading and rereading the words on the bottle of liquor cradled in his palm.

“What about it, boy?” The sect leader coos, breaking from Wei Ying’s hold to approach the only other person he could not possibly fail any further. Those same offending fingers curl under Meng Yao’s chin, tilting his head up to subject him to that unbearable, shit-eating grin, and the only thing besides the roaring in Wei Ying’s ears is a sudden

Quiet

Pop.

Sect Leader Jin is too busy holding himself to lay a hand on anyone else.

-

The thing is that Wei Ying knows his parents were cultivators, but no member of the gentry had ever bothered to examine him. What use was there to know if one of the innumerable brats darting in and out of perfumed halls happened to harbor a golden core?

But it is relevant now, because when he struck the sect leader hard enough to rupture his balls, Wei Ying had channeled that energy in a moment of raw and primal fury.

He hasn’t bared his teeth like that since he was small and starving and cold.

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that he’s done it again.

It’s just that no one expected him to glow.

But it’s enough to label him a rogue cultivator, which means that he must face justice, or whatever ridiculous pageant parades as justice, as a cultivator before others.

He must be tried before the gentry, and because he has performed this assault upon the person of none other than Sect Leader Jin, the scandal alone merits inter-sect justice.

“Ying’er is popular.” Die’er whispers as she joins him in his holding cell, ready to dress him in robes pretty enough for a very unique sort of war. Her eyes are wet, but she is smiling. “You tell them, Ying’er. You tell them in your words.”

Jin Guangshan is not at all prepared for a boy who once bit a dog three times his size for the sake of a burnt meat bun.

So Wei Ying smiles and steadies Die’er’s hands and says, “Die’er, I’m off the floor. I’m going to tell him to his face what an asshole he is.”

Whether they kill him or not?

That’s their problem.

-

Wei Ying is introduced to the Gentry in a grand procession of silk and perfumed oil, surrounded by elegant, painted women who are all leveling Sect Leader Jin with looks of pure, unmasked derision.

The man has been forced to forgo his throne in the Glamour Hall for a gold-painted settee that will allow him to obey his physician’s instructions. Namely, to put absolutely no pressure on the remaining reproductive organs he has.

If this were not ridiculous enough, the unprecedented number of shit-talking prostitutes within the blessed halls titters amongst themselves as several harried servants drag in a large enough chair to accommodate a man built like he juggles bears in his free time.

Wei Ying is given to understand that this is Sect Leader Nie, who shoots him what can only be described as a wolfish grin before he goes to take his seat.

He might decide to execute Wei Ying today, but that doesn’t make him any less attractive.

Meng Yao’s fingers press against his wrist, trapped within a core-suppressant cuff, and Wei Ying straightens up—shoulders back, give them nothing—before his foster brother guides all the family they have ever known to their seats, apart from the upright nobles.

Sect Leader Nie leans his weight on one armrest, face blank and eyes burning with something Wei Ying cannot name. “So,” He says. “Let’s hear from Sect Leader Jin first.”

But his gaze does not leave Wei Ying.

-

“He assaulted me!” Jin Guangshan cries. “I was traveling with several of our most reliable disciples to allay the concerns of our people, and a powerful thirst came upon me. It was Jin Yun’s idea to stop at the pleasure house—only to wet our throats before we continued on—and before we could resume our journey, that boy perpetrated an unprovoked assault upon my person.”

Right, Mingjue thinks. Unprovoked. You slipped, fell into a brothel, and did nothing at all to piss off the workers.

The boy in question looks very much like Huaisang when he is holding back a bit of gossip that he knows will only get him in trouble, and while Mingjue is eager to hear from him, he worries that he will only hang himself before their biased audience.

The Jins have money enough to buy seemingly endless esteem, and no little bit of unearned forgiveness.

He takes a deep breath, and inclines his head to the accused. “And from—”

But Jin Guangshan is not quite finished. The gilded parakeet hisses at the young man who stands before them all. “Do you know who I am?”

-

This he should not have said.

-

Without missing a beat, the young man laden in silks and ornaments and the almost tangible love of every courtesan in the room laden upon him like so much armor looks Sect Leader Jin dead in the eye and says, “A shitty lover, an angry drunk, but most of all an asshole.”

Personally, Mingjue could not have asked for more. Except, perhaps, to borrow one of Huaisang’s fans to hide his face.

“Young master,” Lan Xichen speaks up, ever the voice of gentle reason. “This is perhaps not the best defense…”

For a moment, the youth stills, blinking at the elder jade, surprised by the sound of genuine concern. But then he takes a deep breath and plants his hands on his hips, clearly not having any of it. “It’s the truth.” He levels his gaze, once more, upon the gilded pervert. “You’ve got twenty kids at least, including A-Yao, so I know you know how a brothel works. You’re not new. If you’re coming into our houses to be a rotten bastard, you should just leave.”

The only other man among the courtesans glaring death upon Jin Guangshan, has the spine to call, “Ying’er.”

But Nie Mingjue suspects very little has ever deterred this man, least of all being called little baby.

“This is slander.” The Sect Leader rebukes. “My intentions have always been beyond reproach. I came only for a respite before—”

“Getting another poor bastard on some girl. After you beat my Aunty and terrorized your own kid.”

“I did no such thing!”

“Shit!” The man barks out a harsh laugh, one decadent sleeve flourishing as he points to one of the courtesans watching him with desperate concern, an unmistakable purple-yellow stain mottling her otherwise beautiful face. “I guess you spilled your water too hard!”

Nie Mingjue can’t help but snort, and those silver eyes turn on him, hell-bent and nearly glowing. “I’m not saying I didn’t hit him, Sect Leader Nie. I’m saying he deserved it. I’m saying it was a service.”

-

The thing is that Jin Guangshan was expecting to go up against someone with a modicum of shame or fear or humility.

Not for one single solitary second had he prepared himself for a baby courtesan with something to prove.

-

“So you admit your crime.” Jin Guangshan says, with the sort of self-satisfaction unique to rat bastards. “You take responsibility for your actions.”

And the accused bares his teeth in a sharp, disrespectful smile. “Take responsibility for your kids.”

Mingjue can’t help but let the smile take over his face.

He takes pleasure in the way the young man’s shoulders loosen.

“He’s not claiming innocence, Sect Leader Jin. He’s suggesting that it wasn’t a crime.”

“Which is ridiculous, because he assaulted a sect leader.” Jin Guangshan insists. “This nameless commoner—”

“Wei Ying!” The bruised woman calls. “His name is Wei Ying!”

And this time, it’s Jiang Fengmian who speaks up.

-

A man in purple who looks suddenly deeply troubled rises from among the gathered gentry, but he turns to face Wei Ying instead of the Sect Leader Nie or Jin.

Wei Ying does not know how to feel about the change of plans, especially when the man offers him an odd, trembling smile. “Wei Ying, do you know where you come from?”

“I didn’t come from anywhere. My parents were cultivators, sure, but they didn’t have a sect.”

“Their names—do you recall them?”

“My father’s name was Wei Changze, and my mother was—”

“Cangse Sanren.” The man finishes for him, but it sounds a lot like crying. “They were friends of mine.”

Sect Leader Jin’s face is lemon-sour as he snaps, “You can’t be serious!”

“Your father asked me, once, if I would look after you, if ever—”

“Mister. Uncle. Whichever Sect Leader you are—I hope you’ll forgive me, because you seem comparatively pretty okay—” He motions with his sleeve as if to encompass this entire farcical proceeding, “I’d love to hear all about my parents, I really would. But considering at least one person here wants me dead…”

“I would assume many people have shared the sentiment.” Jin Guangshan grumbles. “Regardless of any history you might have with the boy, Sect Leader Jiang, he attacked me. He admits his actions. No matter why I stopped in his particular rat hole, he had no right to touch his superior in this way.”

-

Several courtesans begin hissing, and Nie Mingjue wonders if Jin Guangshan has comprehended that he’ll be drinking more spit than wine for the foreseeable future.

“No one here is going to kill you.” He says, firmly. “Jin Guangshan is an esteemed Sect Leader, and so a simple punch should have caused no true, lasting harm. It’s only a matter of deciding on an appropriate form of discipline.”

Jin Guangshan, for his part, squawks with indignation.

Mingjue glances over to find Lan Xichen’s eyes glowing with suppressed laughter. His friend nods, encouraging, and he continues.

“Our most pressing matter here is to ensure that your spiritual energy is cultivated properly to avoid any further…accidents.”

Jin Guangshan looks as if he may well have an accident. His face is an unfortunate shade of plum. How is he losing face here?

Wei Ying blinks at him before his brows furrow in confusion. “Wait.”

“Your parents aren’t here to train you, and the resources you would be able to access on your own—”

“They’re shit.”

Mingjue grins.

“That. So it seems like you’ve got a choice here, Ying’er. Sect Leader Jiang seems pretty fond of you, and I’m sure he would try to do right by you.”

 No matter how  batshit it drove his wife.

“How is this—?!”

Nie Mingjue holds a broad palm up to fend off Jin Guangshan’s indignation. “Of course, it would then be up to Sect Leader Jiang to negotiate the appropriate discipline for a member of his clan.”

Wei Ying glances at the man, who looks at him still as if he is seeing a miserable ghost, and shifts with no little discomfort. “Or?”

“Or you and Meng Yao could come to Qinghe to study in the Unclean Realm.”

There’s a great deal of sudden, excited tittering from the painted crowd.

“And you’d discipline me?” Wei Ying snorts, halfway teasing, before he catches himself with, “Ah, Sect Leader Nie. Sir.”

“You’ll need to consider your options carefully. I can’t speak for Sect Leader Jiang, but in Qinghe, you would be able to start fresh. In exchange for your hard work and dedication, no laying around serving wine and nutshotting officials.”

To the side, he can hear Sect Leader Jin hissing, What is happening?!

But he’s a bit preoccupied with the fighty little asshole that has already shown so much promise.

Whatever the punishment, Nie Mingjue thinks, whatever it is—

Little Baby can handle it.

-

Seated amongst a whispering mass of very excited aunties and sisters, Meng Yao sits shock still as Wei Ying glances back at him and grins.

“I don’t know, A-Yao. Who do you think should spank me?”

And honestly, the thing that should surprise them most is that Wei Ying has lived this long.

-

The thing about Qinghe is that, for being located geographically pretty close to a shitload of lava, the place manages to be colder than a witch’s tit in the winter months.

And yet, the Cloud Recesses are colder than that.

Wei Ying—Wuxian, as Sect Leader Jiang had so gently informed him, his parents chose Wuxian for his courtesy name, which is a thing he has—complains the entire way up the steps.

Privately, Mingjue uses the cadence of his whining to keep time. Between he and Huaisang, it’s rather like listening to a game of bitchy shuttlecock.

Periodically, Meng Yao will snap at both of them, rustle his very nice new robes, and Mingjue will feel that this is the ideal balance of things.

So he’s in a surprisingly good mood when they reach the top of the stairs, where the famed Jades of Lan wait to greet them.

Mingjue is eager to introduce Wangji to his two new disciples.

They have much to learn from each other.

-

…

In his defense, he hadn’t meant it that way.

-

So Sect Leader Nie sits like a chastised schoolboy in Lan Qiren’s office, just off to the side, as two thoroughly disheveled teenagers try not to look exceedingly pleased with themselves while their elder decides what sort of asswhupping to administer.

He absolutely does not smile when Wei Ying catches his gaze out of the corner of his eye and grins.

 Ying’er will accept this superior’s punishment.

-

Later that evening, in the guest rooms provided to them, Nie Mingjue aggressively tousles Wei Ying’s hair until he shouts for mercy.

“The elders are debating whether they should marry the two of you, or perform an exorcism. You just had to deflower the Second Jade, you little monster.”

Wei Ying looks up at his Sect Leader, his da-ge, with every ounce of chaotic energy he holds in his skinny little body. “Sect Leader,” He says. “Who says I did the deflowering?”

And he sits there, content as the cat who got the canary.

The shame of the Jin sect, the pride of the Nie:

Wei Ying, Noted Vasectomizer.

#wangxian #writing #my fic #the untamed #mdzs #mo dao zu shi

[avtarinc]

Gender diversity in manufacturing

The manufacturing sector in India has embraced diversity, equity, and inclusion. However, DEI requires to be deeper in the sector than just some standard practices. 

Sharing his perspectives on furthering DEI in the space, Ashok Ramachandran, CEO and President, Schindler India, talks to Avtar Insights, about targeted interventions in gender diversity, and on embedding culture as a leader to support it.

You are a leader who puts people at the center of operations. Tell us some principles you follow when building a culture that supports them.

Some ways to build a culture are:

Giving them the freedom to operate and personalize our leadership style based on individual needs.

Understanding the importance of having good managers, I started by propagating my ideology with the direct reportees, and with time it has moved down the organization and similar ideologies are being spread by my reportees.

Not always reviewing numbers but also focusing on their well-being, the secret sauce is to also focus on the ‘how’ and not just the ‘what’

Be soft on the person but tough on the issues. 

As a signatory of Women Empowerment Principles (WEPS), you have prioritized gender diversity. Share the results you have witnessed due to this emphasis with us.

There has been an increased awareness among People Managers and teams down the line due to multiple sensitization platforms. These comprise bottom-Up Leadership Stories, Branding initiatives – Women in Leadership, Female Leadership Program for Young Women, Quarterly Skill building sessions for all women, POSH workshops, etc. 

We have witnessed a rise in Gender Diversity from 2% in 2018 to 4% in 2022 – marginal growth with increased efforts on hiring. Retention remains our constant challenge.

When we started in 2019, we experimented with hiring women across various field roles for the first time. 2019 was the year of many firsts. We continued to build on that till 2022.

Over the last four years, we now have a fair view of which roles and locations are favorable for our women employees and we plan to leverage the insights from the same.  

Share with us the impact of the ‘Be an Ally’ program adopted at Schindler for people managers?

In 2020, Be an Ally was our first step towards sensitizing our People Managers on DEI. In this, we spoke about several diversities in the workplace, including Female & LGBTQI+ Inclusion.In 2021, we launched an extension of the same program and deep-dived into two major spectrums of diversity at Schindler– mainly Female & LGBTQI inclusion. In 2022, we launched the ‘Inclusive Leadership’ program, which sensitized the people managers on the exact behaviors that they need to display with the diversities in their teams & how they can be inclusive leaders

As a result of these continued efforts, we had our first transgender hire, who was integrated with the organization. Also, we can now clearly see female diversity being nurtured and built in many of our branches.

How is India different in the realm of DEI, according to you? 

There are a few differences that are unique to India:

Cultural diversities

Advent of GenZs & dominance of Millennials in the Workforce

50% women population

Growing opportunities to work abroad/ global organizations

Deep-rooted beliefs and biases towards females, stereotypes, etc.

Tell us how your focus areas in diversity and inclusion have changed over the years.

When we started our I&D journey in 2019, we focussed on the attraction of talent from the non-Elevator industry & hired Females in various roles 

 Over the last four years, our focus has been on creating awareness and sensitization across all diversities. In 2023, we are now moving towards three sharp focus areas – increasing female diversity, inclusion awareness & building inclusive leaders

Going forward, we will focus on other spectrums like PWD and LGBTQI and take initiatives accordingly.

The manufacturing industry in India is opening up to the advantages of diversity and inclusion. What changes do you foresee resulting from this transformation? And is there a potential you feel is still unlocked for the industry in this space?

The manufacturing industry has seen great success in building & skilling female talent through their flagship DET/ GET Train & Hire programs that have resulted in higher ROIs. This is an extremely positive shift from the DEI aspect.

However, the industry is also currently facing immense challenges in terms of acceptance from families, customers, managers, and team members. This has also impacted the retention of female talent in the industry. Most female exits from Schindler are either not joining anywhere or joining the Non-Elevator/ Service industries.

The increase of women in STEM is very encouraging and will be a boost to the availability of women’s talent pool for the manufacturing sector.

There is immense potential yet to be unlocked in terms of the shift in the mindsets of leaders, openness to experiment and fail, job readiness, train, and hire. These are some of the untapped opportunities that may help female talent grow in the manufacturing space in India.

#DEI Framework

[sophieinwonderland]

In a couple of recent posts you mentioned something about the Dalai Lama encouraging the spread of some Tibetan Buddhist practices, including to those who don't practice buddhism as a religion.

I was wondering if you have any specific links or sources on this, mostly because it's a point I haven't seen brought up before and it seems like one of the strongest arguments against the "tulpamancy is cultural appropriation" thing, and it would be nice to have sources to back it up if we ever have to bring it up in an argument ourselves.

Sure!

This is specifically about Tibetan Buddhism meditation practices:

“Many Christians tell me they believe in Buddhist meditation, which can be learned by Christians. We teach right attitude. We teach meditation, which can be quite deep. These would be things that the West can take, and I think it is clear that Buddhists should practice certain Western methods, too.”

The Dalai Lama also talked about how people of other religions may practice Buddhist behavior in a general sense without being Buddhist.

“One can practice a Buddhist behavior, or one can have a Buddhist point of view, or both,” he said, “but when it's done from the theoretical view, it is difficult to also be Christian. It is a different philosophy. You cannot be a Buddhist and also be a non‐Buddhist, so perhaps you cannot be a Christian and a non‐Christian.”

None of these are explicitly about tulpas, but they do point to an overarching theme. In particular, they shoot down a common claim I see, that one cannot pick certain aspects of Buddhism to practice while not being a Buddhist.

Additionally, something that is less relevant but still important for understanding the Dalai Lama's position on Tibetan Buddhism in the West is this excellent article on how he often presents as more modernist to Western audiences and tailors his messages to the West in ways that would appeal more to these audiences.

To international audiences he continues, in modernist fashion, to emphasize the core notions at the heart of Buddhism, and he does not expect his Western disciples to take on the full array of Tibetan customary practice. At the same time, he personally practices the full array of Tibetan Buddhist ritual, and continues to uphold the concepts underlying the institution of the Dalai Lama. Inhabiting these two very different aspects allows him to fulfill his main mission, that of promoting the Tibetan cause and leading the Tibetan people. His modernism allows him to function as an internationally recognized spiritual leader at ease within the various contexts of modernity, whereas his commitment to practices such as that of protectors puts him in touch with the more traditional aspects of the religious culture of his people.

This is echoed in one statement where he encouraged people in the West to adapt the essence of the Dharma to their cultural times and circumstances:

What is important? The past is past; the future is important. We are the creators. The future is in our hands. Even if we fail, no regrets. We have to make the effort . . . to contribute to others rather than to convert others. Motivated always by the altruistic bodhicitta, you in the West should be creative in adapting the timeless essence of the Dharma to your own cultural times and circumstances.

(I would like to find a better source on this quote.)

All of this put together, the idea of Tibetan Buddhism being appropriated seems contrary to the ideals pushed by the Dalai Lama, which is a sharing and exchange of culture.

#ask box #tulpas #tulpamancy #syscourse #pro tulpa #anti tulpa #tulpa system #tulpa #buddhism

[wisdomfish]

Dear Gay Community,

As a Christian who has been forced to evaluate where I stand in recent days in light of Scripture, in both tone and message, I would like to apologize for myself and other Christians…

1. I’m sorry that any of us ever referred to you as a “gay community.” Really, that’s not helpful. 

A “community” is a group of individuals that either live in the same place or share the same values. Sodomy (defined as unnatural and immoral sexual behavior) is not a value. Sodomy is a deviancy. Now, if you defined “community” as sharing interests and not values, then there could theoretically be a gay community because you hold unnatural and immoral sexual behavior as a common interest. However, to call you a “community” would legitimize this sin in a way that we don’t legitimize any other sin. For example, we don’t recognize “the thieving community” or the “the lying community” or “the bank-robbing community” or “the rapist community” or the “white collar criminal community.” If communities could be founded upon self-destructive behavior, those communities would be self-defeating, and a self-defeating community is no community at all. In fact, a truly “gay community” would be extinct within one generation. Your unnatural sexual deviancy leads to death; legitimate communities are self-populating and regenerative. It was a dumb term for Christians to start using, and I apologize for all of those who inadvertently give credence to the narrative that yours is a community and not a group of sinners who share in community-destroying behavior.

2. I’m sorry that Christians have made a habit of referring to you as LGBT or LGBTQ or by any other acronym or term, identifying you by your sin.

First, it is unfair and unhelpful to identify you by your sin. This is actually discriminatory against you, because we don’t behave this way toward any other group of sinners. Adulterers don’t find their identity in adultery. Liars don’t find their identity in lying. Gluttons don’t find their identity in gluttony. We tend to view others as “people who happen to [fill in the blank with any number of sins].” We haven’t viewed you as people – first and foremost – who suffer from the sinful desire of sodomy. Now, you have self-identified as LGBT, because there is a unique tendency when it comes to homosexuality to let the sin consume you as a person, but we should not have participated in the unfortunate reality that your identity has become wrapped up in sinful behavior. If you thought of yourself as a person who suffers from homosexual desires, rather than as a homosexual, you might realize that you’re more than your specific sexual deviancy. God created you to be so much more than a sexual-preference. I’m sorry that leaders like Russell Moore at the ERLC use that term. It’s got to be confusing to you, and altogether unhelpful.

Secondly, I’m sorry we’ve used the term LGBT because it’s a stupid, short-sighted and discriminatory term. Remember back when it was “gay and lesbian?” Ah, good times. Then, bi-sexual became a part of the identity-status. Then, transexual was joined into the acronym. However, it just plain falls short of all the various sexual deviancies out there. And so next, Q was added. “Queer,” you would think, would cover just about everything. And yet, I’m willing to bet that people self-identifying as “queer” would object to certain other sexual deviancies claiming that nomenclature (for now, anyway). How many letters will be added in the end? From a Christian perspective, I apologize we ever used the term. It implies that we – or God – cares about what your particular sexual fetish is. We don’t, honestly. There are two types of sexual behavior, and only one of which is honored by God and to be celebrated by his people. There is a sexual relationship between husband and wife, and there is every other kind of sexual relationship in the world. There are really only two categories. Christians have had such a hard time putting homosexuality in the sin category (and leaving it there) because we have a tendency to overlook opposite-sex, premarital or extramarital fornication within our own churches. We’ve turned a blind eye to cohabitating couples in our churches for decades. Now, don’t get me wrong – homosexuality is used in the Bible over and again as an example of the depths of human depravity. I don’t want to be guilty of sin-leveling, here. I just want to point out that in the broadest spectrum, there is approved sexual behavior and deviant sexual behavior. Classifying you as LGBTQ or XYZABC is really irrelevant, and Christians shouldn’t have ever been using these terms. Plus, there are way more than 26 sexual deviancies out there, and we’d eventually run out of alphabet.

3. I’m sorry that we’ve given you the impression that “self-identifying” is a thing. 

Yes, I know I’ve used the term to get a point across in this letter of apology. But, here’s the thing…you don’t get to “self-identify.” God gave you your identity. Bruce Jenner is not Caitlyn. That’s silly. He’s a guy who emasculated himself to look like a woman, adding breasts and makeup and tucking appendages. It’s a game of dress up, essentially. And if he were to remove his genitalia, he still wouldn’t be a woman. He’d be a man without his genitalia. Bruce Jenner will never have PMS. That’s because he’s not a woman. It’s really, really mean for Christians to be anything but straightforward with this reality. I’m convinced that Bruce Jenner doesn’t have people around him that loves him, or else they would tell him that he doesn’t look like a beautiful woman. He looks like the person that kids on the bus snicker at behind them, and dare one another to go up and touch. Christians, if we were loving, would say “Bless your heart, but you’re not a woman. You’re a man trying to look like a woman, but no one really thinks you’re accomplishing that so well. You are Bruce, and God made you to be Bruce, and you can never be Caitlyn.”

Yes, I know that sounds terribly mean. However, if you were turning yourself into a hideous creature by trying to destroy the handiwork of God manifest in your body, you would want someone to give you a dose of reality. Christians, just as we should tell our kids that when we say, “You can be anything you want when you grow up,” that we don’t mean a butterfly, shouldn’t give people the impression that they’re free to identify however they choose. I may identify as a seven foot tall black man, but it doesn’t mean that I am. Christians should be truth-tellers, and to use the pronouns “her” or “she” when referring to those who God made male (or vice versa) is to bear witness against both our creator and those who are trying to mutilate their flesh. I’m sorry that professing Christians have done that.

4. I’m sorry that Christians have given you the impression that you can be both a born-again Christian and an unrepentant practitioner of sodomy.

The Apostle Paul was very clear in 1st Corinthians 6, that homosexuality is one of the sins for which men must repent and leave if they are to follow Christ. “And that is what some of you were (verse 11)” in the context of this passage, demonstrates that there were not practitioners of these sins in the midst of the church. This list of sins marked an unbeliever, and not a believer. Yes, I know there are lots of professing Christians (think of them as “self-identifying Christians”) who are not so, in reality. They are of whom the Scripture speaks in Romans 1, who “give approval unto those who practice such sins.” Because we love you, we should have clarified that you should, under no circumstance, consider yourself a believer in Jesus until that belief leads you to repentance.

5. I’m sorry that we insisted for so long that you were not born this way.

But hey, to be honest, y’all have fought amongst yourselves on that one (and are still fighting about it). I think it was important to some of us to believe that this sin was entirely the product of your choice. This was a theological fail on our part. While the behavior is entirely the product of your choice, the inclination or desire is a product of Original Sin and denotes a depraved inherited nature (back to Romans 1 again). Some of you may claim your behavior is “natural.” While we know on one level that it is unnatural (which is why the sin is so clearly condemned in Scripture – you don’t need God’s written Law to know it’s wrong; nature itself testifies against it), the fact is, it may be in your unconverted nature. This is why you need a new nature that is found only by being born again. As a Christian, I apologize for all those who are theologically inept and don’t understand how ingrained sin is into our flesh. Of course, this is the point of being born again – to be made new and to receive a new nature.

6. Finally, I apologize for all the professed Christians that you thought had convictions, only to find out that they were sniveling, driveling compromise machines.

It probably surprised you how they changed their tune and their tone when the Supreme Court ruled. That’s especially tragic. It’s tragic, because I know that your conscience is cutting you. I know that even truth suppressed in unrighteousness hurts. It’s painful, I’m sure. You might even be on the look-out for conviction and resolve and truth, and while perhaps being glad to see the rainbow filter go on your professing-Christian Facebook friends’ profiles, you’re a little let down that there isn’t an unchanging reality out there somewhere. Down deep, you know that you need that. I’m sorry for all those who have professed Christ, but haven’t loved you (or Him) enough to dig their heels in and speak a truth that’s as helpful as it is inconvenient.

I sincerely hope you’ll forgive us for these shortcomings, and we strive to do better in the future.

J.D. Hall

#pride month #lgbt #homosexuality #christianity #sodomy

[187days]

Day Twelve

Today was a day full of interesting conversations. 

The ones related to my lessons were about current events. We went over the state primary results in APGOV before test review (unit test is tomorrow); a couple races were still too close to call this morning, so we’ll revisit the topic whenever winners are declared. In World, I asked students to share what they’d written their current event write-ups about, and I’m happy that so many of them volunteered in both sections. Afterwards, I summed up the things they’d been learning about the world over the past several classes, and told them that the UN had met a few years ago and come up with 17 goals (the SDGs) to address some of the world’s major issues. Then I had them get into groups to try and guess what the goals are (I gave them two- no poverty and climate action- to confirm that they do line up with things they’ve been learning). It’s a new lesson, so I wasn’t sure how it would go, but it was great! They worked well in groups, and they actually had pretty spot-on guesses. Plus, they’re curious about how these goals are supposed to be met, so that’s my next lesson.

Boom.

And I had some conversations about other topics, too.

The first was with two seniors in my GOV class who are leaders- team captains, members of student council, all that- and were frustrated by the fact that students have to sit with their advisories at Friday’s pep rally. I asked if I could argue the administration’s side so they could hear it, and they let me. So I reminded them how chaotic the pep rally was last spring: a fight almost broke out, a lot of insults were hurled, and many students were not where they were supposed to be (like, they were vaping in the bathroom or something). I added that we’re responsible for students while they’re in the building; assigned seating makes it easier for us to know where everyone is and what they’re doing, and it curbs some of the negative behaviors that emerge when certain groups are together. My two students argued that seniors, at least, should be allowed to sit where they want, and I agreed that they and their classmates could probably handle it. But if we want to reverse the negative trends that emerged last year, we need them to be the role models. It’s putting a lot on their class, which isn’t necessarily fair, but there it is. Ultimately, they said they could see that point of view, but they and some other student leaders did end up speaking to The Principal, who then told the whole student body that if they can meet the behavioral expectations that have been set this time (sit with advisories, keep the comments positive, stay off the gym floor unless called down to participate, etc, etc...), he’s willing to revisit the seating thing in the future. I thought that was a reasonable response, but I’ll ask my students if they agree when I see them tomorrow. 

I had two more interesting conversations with students during Block 2. Actually, the first was during the bell change. One of the students I really struggled to reach last spring came by to say hello. He was smiling and upbeat, and we chatted about his classes (advanced trigonometry is tough!), and then he left with a, “Good to see you, Miss M!” It made my day because he was often really angry last year, and it’s such a turnaround. Meantime, one of my current freshmen is really angry, and I think the same thing about him that I’d thought about this other boy: it’s a lot of rage for someone so young to be carrying around. In the current student’s case, it’s coming from what he’s watching on social media; he’s repeating various aggrieved content creators word for word whenever he’s frustrated in class. Today he kept shouting out things as we were looking at the SDGs, and I responded with some gentle fact-checks (no, having climate action as a goal does not mean everyone in government wants to get rid of air conditioners), and a suggestion that we read thoroughly first and then comment, which... mostly worked? I do realize that there’s some anxiety or discomfort related to school behind this student’s behavior, and I have to try to help alleviate that. I’m not exactly sure how just yet, but I’m working on it. The fact that I don’t raise my own voice in response to him raising his is helpful, I think.

What else?

Today’s spirit day theme was New England, which meant lots of sports jerseys, college t-shirts and sweatshirts, town t-shirts, etc... I have a cute shirt with an outline of NH and the word “home” written across it, so that’s what I was wearing. The seniors in my advisory complimented it, which I appreciated. Also, there was a school trivia Kahoot during advisory, which I think they were skeptical about, initially, but then they got competitive and it was super fun.

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