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introvertguide · 3 years

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Abuse of Children Portrayed in Film

I like to use movies as an escape from the harshness of the real world and one of the things that I have learned about in my education is the effects on children when they are mistreated. I have a Masters Degree in Developmental Psychology and one of the hardest classes for me to handle was Abnormal Development in Children and Adolescents. We covered everything from dealing with dyslexia and ADHD to surviving severe abuse and loss at a very early age. We had guest speakers that ranged from people who had escaped genocide as children, to individuals who had been sold into prostitution by their parents, to people who had suffered severe abuse from their parents or guardian. I have heard stories that will stick with me forever and that is nightmare fuel that I don't want to share.

Because of my background education, I take note of the treatment and behavior of children and adolescents in the movies that I watch. There have been many great movies over the years that have depicted the suffering of children and it has always been difficult for me to deal with. There are more well known examples of films that focus on suffering but throw in more of a "sometimes we all suffer, even the children" message that demonstrate that kids aren't immune to great travesties (basically any film about The Holocaust). There are also well known films that show children "coming of age" through hardship (Annie 1982, Oliver! 1968) but end perfectly. There is a more current series of films that focuses entirely on a boy discovering a fantasy world that was robbed from him when his parents were murdered by a tyrant (Harry Potter series). But in this list I want to review some lesser known films that show examples of abuse. Even after all that I have seen and heard, the following list of films have affected me personally for one reason or another. Sometimes the children in these films endure and overcome their situation in the end. Sometimes these children do not survive or sadly remain in their misfortunes. To me, this can make the movie all the more powerful because of the incredible amount of pathos that endangering a child character can add. It can also make it a heart wrenching experience that is painful to watch. Here are some powerful films in which children suffer and the struggle is one of the main plot lines of the movie:

SPOILER WARNING AND VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISORY!!! I AM GOING TO GIVE AWAY THE PLOT TO THESE FILMS AND IT SHOULD GO WITHOUT SAYING THAT SOME OF THE PLOTS ARE DISTURBING!!! EITHER WATCH THE FILM IF YOU DON'T WANT SPOILERS OR CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING SUMMARIES IF YOU WOULD RATHER JUST HEAR WHAT HAPPENS SO YOU KNOW IF YOU WANT TO WATCH OR NOT!!!

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Sybil (TV Movie) 1976

I just recently saw this film after I had heard of the story in my abnormal development class almost 10 years ago. It is the story of a woman who developed multiple personalities to deal with a childhood in the care of an undiagnosed schizophrenic mother. The movie stars Sally Fields and is based on a true account of Shirley Ardell Mason and her treatment by psychologist Cornelia Wilbur. The acting in the film is overdramatic at times, but it definitely reminded me of some of the actual old videos of Shirley Mason and her sudden strange switches in personality when she was scared or anxious. Dr. Wilbur used hypnosis to actually introduce Mason to her alternate personalities and she was able to recognize her disassociative identity disorder and overcome it. It still hurts me to think that this person was mentally wounded so deeply by her parents that it basically shattered her into pieces in an effort to make sense of things.

Leon: The Professional 1994

I mention this film a lot because it is a heartwarming story of an assassin teaching a young orphan how to murder. It is the breakout role for Natalie Portman and it is just amazing. Leon is a "cleaner" that lives next door to an abusive and addictive family with a troubled girl named Mathilda. The father gets in trouble with the mob and some enforcers come by and slaughter most of the family while Mathilda is getting groceries. She returns during the massacre and realizes what is happening so continues next door and pleads for shelter. Leon takes her in and teachers her the trade and protects her from the men who want to finish her off. The movie was written and directed by Luc Besson and stars Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, and Natalie Portman. The suffering that this girl endures because of her parent's addictions hurts me, yet I have seen and enjoyed this film many times. I recommend watching when in the mood to be deeply affected by the trials of a little girl and the killer who protected her.

Kids 1995

This film came out when I was early in high school and bothered me greatly. It is a story by Harmony Korine, and one of his many attempts to capture the hopeless lives of unmotivated and unsupervised teens. These are young teens having unprotected sex, stealing money to do drugs, and attacking people in the park. I did not really go to these kinds of parties when I was that age (or ever really) and it has bothered me to think that adolescents would partake in this kind of behavior. It is hard for me to believe that these kids had the ability to mentally comprehend the consequences of their actions and some of the characters end up contracting HIV from each other. I would not recommend the film because it is a depressing day in the life that no youth should have.

Gummo 1997

I would not call this a good movie and I wouldn't really recommend it. It is another work by Harmony Korine and really details the depravity that can occur with unsupervised youths living in low socio-economic conditions. This movie is just depressing and motivated me to find something to motivate me into action. I got into both psychology and teaching, which has served me well for the past 20 years. It was this film that showed me how low the bar for quality of life could be, and I guess for that I am thankful. However, I still wouldn't recommend it.

Happiness 1998

This movie I didn't see right away but noticed it at the video store on many occasions. I final watched it when I was about 25 on the recommendation of a friend and one particular storyline greatly disturbed me. It is basically the story of 3 sisters that feel they should be happy and project a face of happiness, yet they are miserable and have horrible lives. One sister in particular is married to a psychiatrist who turns out to be a pedophile that rapes the friends of his young son. At one point rather early on in the movie, this man confesses to his son that he raped the boy's friends and that he would do it again. The son is so confused that he asks his father why he never raped him. It is so disturbing to me because I know the boys that were assaulted will be forever damaged and this boy who was not actually raped will be mentally scarred as well. The fact that there are people in the world that would harm children that way, recognize what they had done, and then know they didn't have the self control to stop themselves from doing it again is horrifying to me.

Lilya 4-Ever 2002

This film is deeply disturbing and I highly recommend never watching it. I will spoil it for you now so you never have to see it if you don't want. A 16-year-old girl named Lilya lives with her mother. The mom gets a boyfriend and the couple move to America and abandons Lilya with a neglectful aunt. The aunt movies into the old apartment of her sister and Lilya is forced to move out and become a prostitute to make money. A boy comes along and convinces her to move to Sweden to escape her life. When they arrive, this boy sells her to a pimp and she becomes a teenage sex slave. She almost escapes, but is then captured and beaten almost to death. She escapes again and this time commits suicide so she won't be recaptured. This movie is awful and changed my mind about giving every film a chance. I wish I could forget this film, but I can't. Perhaps it is just not for me, but this film presentation is definitely an experience that you won't soon forget.

The Kite Runner 2007

I read this book in my twenties and saw the film in my thirties and both affected me greatly. A well-to-do boy and his friend are in a kite battle competition and the friend is beaten and raped when he goes to retrieve a fallen kite. The well-to-do boy denies knowing what happened to his friend (he does know) and basically shames and abandons him. This action haunts the well-to-do boy for the rest of his life. How the boy who was raped is basically falling prey to blaming the victim is heartbreaking, and the lifetime of guilt of the other boy is pitiable. Neither boy was the actual attacker yet they both were the ones that suffered.

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There are many other examples of movies along these lines and could be found if you feel like suffering. I can't say that I would recommend them because they are very difficult to watch. Beyond just dealing with the content, it is rare to find child actors who can actually portray somebody who has truly suffered. The mix of bad acting and a depressing plot can make for a terrible movie going experience. The genre of movie involving suffering does exist, though, and it could be enjoyed (?) by some. Just not generally by me.

#harmony korine #gummo #kids #the kite runner #suffering #psychology #depressing movies #introvert #introverts #happiness #lilya 4 ever #leon the professional #movies

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writtentodeath · 3 years

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If you are one day in the mood again could we get a political hostage situation where the prince is the hostage and the princess is the conquerer? I have a soft spot for the golden hero x tyrant princess trope. Especially if they have a history together (like childhood friends). I was thinking that the villainess maybe grow up mocked as the least loved princess and the only person she liked got promised to her sister instead of her. So she snaps one day & overthrows her siblings and calls war on the neighbour country, demanding him back? Hope it's not to specific! 💖

The princess waited at the window, looking out over her kingdom. Soon, they would be at peace, and all would be as it should.

A knock sounded at the door.

“Enter!” she called, and the huge oak doors creaked open. A pair of footsteps walked in, accompanied by conspicuous clattering. “I didn’t think cuffs would be necessary,” she called.

“I didn’t either,” the prince said. His voice was all tight and low, his words clipped. “It’s not as if I’m going to try and strangle you.”

The princess smiled, not looking at the city anymore, just staring. “It’s good to hear your voice. Even if you’re angry with me.”

“Deepest apologies,” he replied.

The princess turned.

He looked tired. Everyone did, thanks to this wretched war. His hands were, of course, cuffed behind him, the chains attaching to a belt going around his chest. His jaw was clenched, eyebrows ever so slightly scrunched in. It was kind of cute, actually.

The prince shifted under her gaze just once, before catching himself and standing dead still. “Am I to your taste? Should I change something?”

Her smile dropped. “Don’t talk like that.”

“Like what?” He asked, eyebrows raised.

“You know exactly how. Stop acting like I’ve made you some piece of meat.”

“Haven’t you?”

The princess didn’t deign to give that a response. “Come here,” she said instead, “I can get you out of those.”

“Whatever you want,” he said, walking across the room.

“Stop that,” the princess repeated. “Look, I understand that you’re angry now, but the war is ending! It’s over! Everything is well again, and as it should be.”

Somehow he was directly in front of her, staring straight into her eyes. After a second, he pointedly lowered them to the ground.

The princess started undoing the belt around his chest, pulling the ties just a little too harshly. “If you’re going to act like a baby,” she said, “then I guess you’ll act like a baby.”

He laughed at that, pulling his arms away as soon as he was free. “I’m the one acting immature? Why, your majesty, I’m here to end a war. Is that not mature enough for you?”

“You always were overdramatic.”

The prince turned on a pin, nose to nose with the princess. His breath came out in short, angry bursts.

“If you keep clenching your jaw that tightly you’ll break it,” the princess said.

“You,” the prince said as calmly as he could, “are even more infuriating than when I last saw you. The only difference is now you can act on all your stupid envies.”

“You loved me.”

He caught her wrist, not doing anything with it, just holding it. Tightly. “We were kids. Of course I loved you. But then you went and started a war because Mommy and Daddy didn’t give you enough attention when you were little, so that rather changes matters, don’t you think?”

“You used to want to rule too, you know.”

“But I was content with what I had.”

“And can’t you be content here?” she brought her wrist, still wrapped in his hand, up to her mouth, lips brushing over his knuckles. “Maybe what I did was wrong, but it’s over now.”

“That’s the problem, [princess],” he said. “No matter how much I might want to enjoy seeing you again, how am I supposed to excuse what you did? I’m here because you’ve forced me.”

The princess let her eyes linger on his fingers for a moment longer, then turned them to his face. “Well, my dear, I suppose you’ll just have to forget all about it.”

His eyes hardened, and he let go of her wrist. The second he let go she grabbed his wrist in turn, pulling him closer.

“I only ever wanted you,” she murmured.

“No,” he said, still unresisting. He was, after all, the linchpin in the peace treaty. His obedience. His love. “You just wanted anything that wasn’t yours.”

#hero x villain #prince x princess #writing prompt #My writing #writers on tumblr #snippet #story snippet #I really loved this idea and I hope this did it justice

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starryevermore · 3 years

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scooby doo! and the overdramatic youtubers: the assignment (1) ✧ sam and colby

scooby doo! and the overdramatic youtubers ✧ a parallel universe snc au | ao3

summary: sam and colby are transported into another universe once more.

word count: 2,746

warning(s): mention of tyranny/revolution, mention of ghosts/paranormal, velma arguing that ghosts aren’t real, being chased by a monster

It had been months since Sam and Colby’s adventure into the Karate Kid universe fixed the mess they had inadvertently created. Life had quieted since then. Well, it was as quiet as it could be when you’re well-known YouTubers. Honestly, they hadn’t really experienced quiet since their Vine days. Everything was go, go, go. It was all business, all the time. In a way, they almost missed traveling to a different universe, to be something other than infamous duo Sam Golbach and Colby Brock. They were normal kids for once and, after having lived so long with fans watching their every move, it was almost like a vacation. And, God, could they use a vacation now.

Ever since they returned from the Karate Kid universe and realized that they’d been given that weird device, the portal opener, from Arden—no, Lux—that would allow them to continue traveling the universes, they’d been on edge. They so desperately wanted a way out, if only for just a moment. But they were equally scared of ruining things again. Though no time had passed in their universe, they were dealing with their mess for months. They were away from home, from technology, from everyone they loved, for months. And they weren’t quite ready to leave it all behind again. Yet, the temptation lingered.

Perhaps that was why Colby continued to carry the portal opener, along with their traveling licenses, wherever they went. Just in case they decided to go to another universe last minute, just in case they were needed elsewhere last minute. But it was almost to the point where it was like a safety blanket, a reminder that what they’d done was real. After all, there was no one they could talk to about what happened but each other. Sure, they could use the device to contact Arden Lux but…He wasn’t sure. If she wanted to talk to them. They were hardly friends, after all. Colleagues for a brief while, sure, if you could really call it that. As much as Colby wanted to reach out, to talk about what happened, he didn’t feel like it was his place to. Besides, she was probably too busy being a badass agent to have time to just chitchat. So, that only left Sam that Colby could talk to. And it just…didn’t feel right to talk about. Like it wasn’t their story to tell somehow. So, he just…didn’t.

And, even if it did feel right, they had other things to do.

Like their actual job.

Which was why they were in an old, abandoned cathedral just outside of Los Angeles County.

They, in a surprising turn of events, actually got permission to explore the building by the owner, deciding that for once they didn’t want to risk going to jail once more. So they coughed up a few hundreds, rented out the place for a few hours, and got to filming. After all, there was a wonderful ghost story surrounding the place. Something about a “Shieldmaiden”, which Sam mentioned was weird, as he was fairly certain that the Vikings never made it this far West, whatever that meant. But it was a fun ghost story nonetheless. Allegedly, the Shieldmaiden took over the town, previously known as Little Denmark. She destroyed everything she touched, tearing everything apart so that she could rebuild the town in her image. No stone was left unturned, and the town was never the same. She ruled with an iron fist. What she said was law. If she wanted something, she got it. And she wasn’t afraid to take people down to get it. But, the issue with tyrants was that, eventually they must fall. Those brave enough to take a stand rose from the ashes, challenged her, and…lost. Horrifically. But it was never forgotten what they did. Eventually, the town wasted away. She refused any aid, any contact, with other settlements. Kept them away from the world. And it bit her in the ass. Everything she built was gone. And she, too, died with her dreams of her town.

They say that you can still hear her heartbroken screams at the realization that she was just another failure.

And, well, that was what Sam and Colby were investigating. That the town was haunted. The legend stated that the cathedral was the most haunted building in the entire town. It was where the revolutionaries took their stand. And it was where they fell.

There certainly was something eerie about the building. Perhaps not ghosts, but it was…Off. Some sort of sadness, angst, hung in the air. It was heavy, coming down on them the moment they passed through the doors. But they tried to not let it bog them down, to continue with their usual filming routine. They’d opted to film alone this time around, take it back to the original Sam and Colby XPLR days.

After explaining the history of the place, they went about the actual exploration process. They moved to the far corner of the cathedral, as Sam had noted that it was where people most often detailed paranormal experiences. They set their bags down on an old, wonky pew and Colby went to fish out the EMF reader.

But, when he pulled his hands out, the portal opener was there.

Sam, upon seeing the device, shut the camera off and scoffed. “Seriously? You’re still bringing that around?”

“She might need us,” he mumbled, running his thumb down the screen. “She might want to talk.”

“She hasn’t yet.”

“But she might.”

“And suppose she did. What then? Do we answer? Why should we? She hasn’t reached out.”

“Neither have we.”

“Yeah, well that’s dif—”

“How? How is it any different? And besides—” Colby paused as the screen lit up. “Shit, we got a message.”

“W-What? What does it say?”

“It…it just says, Stop the Shieldmaiden,” Colby said. “Is she fucking with us? Cause…Isn’t the Shieldmaiden already gone?”

“But what else could it mean?” Sam asked. “Maybe another universe has a Shieldmaiden? But, then…I don’t know. Should we answer the call? Don’t they have agents for this?”

But there no time to make a choice, for there was no choice to be made. They’d received their assignment and, as the device enveloped them in a bright light, pulling them through a portal, they knew what they had to do.

Well, sort of.

They’ll figure it out.

Hopefully.

Colby groaned, rubbing his head as he slowly began to adjust to…wherever the hell he and Sam had ended up. Everything was so bright, it made his head hurt. He felt that same sort of churn of his stomach as he had felt when he returned home from the Karate Kid universe all those months ago. How had that even been possible, them jumping to another universe? They hadn’t even input any information into the portal opener. Could someone else control the device? And why the hell were they, overdramatic youtubers at best, given an assignment? Did the MTD not have agents for this shit?

He opened his eyes fully, blinking quickly to adjust to the light, as he sat up. He was…How was…How could he be in the same place he left in? Did the portal opener not work anymore? Or, wait. No. This was different. He was in the cathedral, yes, but this one was much different than the one he and Sam had been exploring. Or, was it different? It certainly looked similar. But it was cleaner, brighter, more filled with life. And…wait, shit, were those people staring at him and Sam?

Wait, had that blond guy said something?

Something like, “Well gang, it looks like we got another mystery on our hands?”

Were they in the Scooby Doo universe!?

Well, he mused, at least that was an improvement from the Karate Kid universe. At least he knew something about Scooby Doo, had a vague idea of what to expect.

“Hey,” he said, not sure what else to say. What was there to say? He and Sam had been given no direction except to the Shieldmaiden. Would that be something important to bring up? Should he say that immediately? Fuck, they kept just staring at him. “You wouldn’t happen to know anything about a Shieldmaiden, would you?”

The brunette, Velma, blinked and gave him a harsh look. “What do you know about the Shieldmaiden?”

“Just that we’re supposed to investigate what she’s doing here,” Colby said. Fuck, he used to not be this good at lying. But was he lying? He wasn’t, really, he supposed. That was what he and Sam were supposed to be doing. And yet, it still left a bitter taste in his mouth.

“Investigate?” Velma repeated. “And just who are you?”

Sam, who’d finally gained his bearings, sat up, too. “I’m Sam, this is Colby. We’re paranormal investigators.”

She laughed. “Oh, you can’t be that ignorant, can you? Ghosts aren’t real.”

“Yeah, that’s why we investigate it,” Colby said. “To see if it’s real or not.”

“Besides, we’re always finding out about new things existing in the world. Who’s to say that one day we don’t find out that ghosts, or something like ghosts, are actually real? And who would look like the dumb one then?” Sam added.

Colby nodded. “And we never even said if we believed ghosts to be real or not. Just that we investigate their potential existence.”

Daphne jumped in before things could get any more hostile. “Well, I’m Daphne, and this is Velma, Fred, Shaggy, and Scooby,” she said, pointing to each of the people she was introducing. “And these are the Hex Girls—Thorn, Luna, and Dusk. And this is their director, NJ Lorei.”

“Lorei,” Colby said. “That’s funny. One of our friends has that last name, too.”

“You said something about the Shieldmaiden, right?” Fred said. “What are you doing here investigating that?”

Sam shrugged. “Our…organization gave us this assignment, not a lot of information. Just told us that there were strange things happening here, and we should come look into it.”

“Well, the only strange thing here is how you got in here without anyone noticing,” Thorn said, eyeing them.

Colby’s face grew warm. Though the moment was serious, he couldn’t believe he was talking to Thorn from the Hex Girls. He remembered growing up that he was obsessed with her, probably watching The Witch’s Ghost a thousand times just to see her. “I mean, it wasn’t hard…The door was open.”

“Doesn’t explain how you broke a pew.”

“I got two left feet.”

“That doesn’t matter,” Velma said. “I think we’ve got this handled. You can tell whoever you work for that Mystery Inc. has it under control.”

“It doesn’t work like that,” Sam said.

“Wait!” Shaggy said. “Why don’t we just team up? Everyone gets to solve the mystery, and with more hands on deck, me and Scoob can spend more time getting food.”

“Reah, reah, reah!” Scooby agreed, nodding his head eagerly.

Velma ground her teeth together, looking annoyed at the prospect of working with people who potentially believed in the supernatural, before sighing. “Fine. It could get this mystery solved faster if we have more people. C’mon, we should go to the library to see if we can find any information about the Shieldmaiden.”

When they reached the library, there was already someone at the reference desk. She was a tall blonde and, when she turned upon hearing them enter, she had bright blue eyes and a megawatt smile. “Hi! You tourists?” she greeted them, much louder than a library would dictate, her nose sort of scrunching up in an odd sort of way when she said the word tourists.

“Something like that,” Fred said. “Our friends are filming a music video here, and we came to check it out.”

“Oh, those people,” she dismissed. “Honestly, it’s just the worst.”

“What? That a famous band is using your town as the backdrop for their video? Isn’t that a good thing?”

“Only if you enjoy tourists coming in and ruining everything good about this town. The tourism industry is not a viable way to stimulate our economy, and the sooner Daddy gets that, the better.”

“Daddy?” Velma repeated.

“Mhm, the mayor.” She extended a hand to them, shaking it with each of them. “I’m Jacklyn Ann.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” Daphne said. “Say, would you happen to know anything about the Shieldmaiden?”

She shook her head. “Nothing more than what’s in the papers. But, hey, you might find something around here somewhere?”

“That’s what we’re hoping for,” Velma said. “Well, it was nice to meet you.”

“You too,” she said, before waltzing out of the library.

The gang, save for Scooby and Shaggy, turned their attention to the librarian seated at the reference desk, asking about where to find new articles or something. Shaggy and Scooby, though, were busy sneaking off, probably trying to find if there was any food anywhere. Colby nudged Sam, getting his attention.

“Should we follow them?” he whispered. “Those two usually are good about accidentally running into the bad guy, and that’s exactly what we need.”

“Good catch,” Sam whispered back. “Let’s go.”

They caught up to the duo, saying something about how they were also hungry. Not a lot was said, mostly Scooby and Shaggy muttering about where exactly the break room in the library would be. Eventually, though, they found the break room and the ever-hungry duo descended upon the food.

“So, what should we—” Sam paused, watching as Colby joined the snack hunt. “Brother, what are you doing?”

“What?” Colby asked. “I haven’t ate breakfast yet.”

“…whatever. Where should we begin with searching for clues?”

Shaggy jumped in, scarfing down an intricate sandwich that in no way looked edible. “Nuh uh, the kitchen is the safe place, and safe place means no mention of mysteries and ghosts and monsters.”

Sam began to argue, but something just beyond Shaggy caught his eye. A woman with long blonde hair in fairy-locks and a zombified face that somehow had black face paint on it stood just in the door way. She looked like she was ready for battle, with her heavy armor and large axe.

“You mean, a Shieldmaiden has no place here?” Sam asked, still staring at the woman.

“Absolutely not.”

“Then I suggest we run,” Sam said, grabbing Colby by the arm and taking off.

“Wait, my sandwich!” Colby shouted, reaching out to grab his food, but Sam was too fast. Damn him for being so dedicated to running a six-minute mile.

Behind them Shaggy had jumped into Scooby’s arms out of fear, the Great Dane quickly matching Sam’s pace as they raced through the library. The Shieldmaiden let out a loud cry before Colby could hear her thundering footsteps.

“Shit, Sam, can we go any faster?” Colby asked, looking over his shoulder to see the Shieldmaiden looking ready to throw her ask. Sam looked back, seeing Scooby still carrying Shaggy, and before he could really think about what he was doing, he scooped up Colby and pushed himself to run even faster. “Uhh, this isn’t exactly what I had in mind.”

“Beggars can’t be choosers!”

They were running so fast that they hadn’t noticed that they’d reached the front of the library, nor that the rest of the gang was waiting for them. And, while the gang was waiting for them, they were blind to the fact that the Shieldmaiden, in an odd turn of events that seems to only make sense in cartoons, had somehow ended up behind the gang. And, with her axe raised above her head, she looked ready to kill.

Colby catapulted himself out of Sam’s arms, an ungodly speed overtaking him as he dashed towards the gang. He was shouting something, probably “look out”, but all he could think was of was getting the others out of the way, to save them even if, by cartoon logic, they likely wouldn’t be hurt. He reached them faster than he ever could in his normal universe, pulling Daphne away from the axe that was about to come down over her head, Fred and Velma dodging out of the way when they realized what was happening.

By the time the dust settled, the Shieldmaiden had disappeared, and Daphne was still in Colby’s arms.

And Fred looked less than pleased with this development.

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dreamsclock · 3 years

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Hey hey! Quick pet peeve of mine and question for you!

Do you ever like... Get that iffy feeling when you see an animatic about the prison death that doesn't include the full story or just even hints of it? Like a lot of animatics I see about it like. Most likely unintentionally victimize Tommy much more than he was already a victim by not including the fact that Dream also got hit a lot during that time, not to mention Pussboy. It feels, to me at least, like not giving the full extent of the truth to what happened and only giving out the details that make it seem like Dream was killing Tommy "for nothing" and Tommy had done barely anything wrong.

Like, I understand that it may be a bit more effort, but it. Y'know. Feels like you're overdramatizing what actually happened. I'd even be happy if there were at least hints, like bruises or a little blood, On Dream that implied that he was also hit.

I don't know if you understand this, since I often can't find the best way to word my thoughts. But, like. Do you see what I'm getting at?

YEAH no, one hundred percent,, i completely get what you mean, which is honestly why i try to avoid a lot of prison death art / animatics / fics, because i know the type of dynamic they’re going to portray lmao, and because i tend to get Really Defensive over stuff like this — probably because fanon has a huge influence over how others feel, and i’m sick of seeing c!dream completely vilified :’)

esp in a fandom that influences some of canon (think c!q’s eye scar, “welcome home theseus”, etc), it’s always stressful to me to see completely wrong interpretations of what characters are like AGDLD, especially when it’s such a wide misconception already, yk?? people really heavily consume fanon in fandoms (which is Really Good), but also tend to get wrong interpretations through fanon too (hetalia + vld fandoms looking at you guys /j), which can be really detrimental to the characters overall i guess?? or at least it sort of drills home wrong or skewed or biased interpretations which could then influence Others, and so on, and so on,,,

it’s actually kind of like the smp characters themselves???? c!wilbur started called c!dream a tyrant, painting a wrong picture of him, and c!tommy / l’manburg adopted that idea too, and it continues and continues until c!dream conforms to that idea too ,,,, it’s this idea that you can find Anything in a character if you twist the narrative enough, like if i wanted to, i could completely demonise c!tommy, yk?? it’s about trying to be as objective as possible (which can be hard speaking from experience ZHDKDH)

i’m all for alternate takes on characters, esp in aus !! i think they’re sick + obv i’m not going to tell people how to write / interpret characters because that would be Weirdchamp TM, but c!tommy’s prison death is seen in the fandom almost universally as entirely unwarranted and as just another act of evil from c!dream, and to an extent, i understand where they’re coming from, but that’s ,, not true ??

there’s A Reason i made a joking post saying “god if i was c!dream i’d have killed c!tommy by now” before he actually did so — c!tommy was antagonistic, he was aggravating and annoying and killing him was a fucking shitty move from c!dream, but it wasn’t surprising, you know?? and it also wasn’t just a completely unprovoked act like some people interpret it as 😭 c!tommy provoked him so many times and killed his comfort animal and it was a hellish situation for them both to be stuck in and c!dream snapped. this isn’t to defend him, OBVIOUSLY, but jfc, people that act like c!dream spent the whole week manipulating c!tommy and then killed him in cold blood make me Very Uneasy LMAO

but yeah, no, i completely get you :’) c!dream stans are sick of seeing content that’s supposed to be Canon Compliant of c!dream being an irredeemable monster and i think it’s normal to dislike that !!

#> my asks !!#tw discourse #> disk horse #dsmp fandom critical #dream smp fandom critical #tw death #tw murder #tw animal death #tw prison arc #tw manipulation #ask to tag!#> intinsifying #tw long post #long post

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sapphicconservative · 3 years

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As someone who isn’t from the South, I hope you don’t mind my curiousity, and potential ignorance, in getting your perspective on the confederate flag. I saw in another answer of yours that the flag is seen as a sign of rebellion; which I can understand, and somewhat empathize with, if I remove my personal interpretation between it and the popular connection to slavery.

But the way I’ve always seen it, the confederate flag is an “enemy” flag (an overdramatic description, I know). A war was waged against the American goverment— for better or worse, I’m not trying to make a comment on the Civil War— under that flag. Yet some of the most self-proclaimed “Americans” are the ones who fly it. Why would “true Americans” fly the flag of an attempted seccession against America? I’ve never understood that, and have generally chalked it up to cognitive dissonance.

However, I’m wary of making sweeping judgements. I’ve never spoken with someone who views the confederate flag differently than I do, even if I know people who proudly keep it in their houses and wave it on their trucks. And I greatly respect your approach towards discourse. So while the flag does carry a certain reputation to me, I’d like to hear another interpretation, if you wouldn’t mind. Thank you so for your time! 💕

“Why would “true Americans” fly the flag of an attempted seccession against America?”

That’s a really good question and truthfully not something I’ve thought too much about. I think it’s best we first look to history for the answer in this, you may be surprised to know that our Founding Fathers, the men who created this nation, had stepping stones to aid the American people if we ever decided to rebel against the government.

The first major step for this is in the Declaration of Independence. Our Founding Fathers made it explicitly clear it is the duty of the American people to overthrow a corrupt government. As said from the Declaration of Independence: “when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government”.

The next major step is found roughly a decade or two later in the form of our Second Amendment. Overthrowing a corrupt government is the main reason we have the second amendment. This is the 2A in its full statement: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” To the security of a free state. If people believe their state’s rights are being infringed, then that is not a free state in the meaning under the Constitution.

Some of our Founding Fathers also had their own ideas when it came to a rebellion in the American people towards the government. Thomas Jefferson is quoted believing a little rebellion is a good thing. He was even quoted saying: “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is its natural manure.” George Washington disapproved of Shays’ Rebellion - one of the earliest rebellions in American history. And again, Washington upheld this belief during the Whiskey Rebellion under his presidency. Instead, Founding Fathers urged for change through laws, understanding this took time, but they also understand that people will rebel and corruption can happen. Source One. Source Two. Source Three.

It’s hard to say how some would have supported the secession, but it’s also clear others would have never accepted a full secession. But, it is also clear that the people in the mid-1800′s were feeling a great political divide to that of the American Revolutionary period between England and American Colonies. The North and South were almost like two different cultures, as well. If you’re curious about reading up on how different the two regions were, then I recommend reading over this site.

One final note - there is a love for your nation and a love for your government. Many people today seem to be under this notion to love your nation is to love your government, and vice versa. That is not correct. I know many people who are stereotypical Americans but truly hold a disdain or disapproval with our government at times.

#my apologies this is so long #you gave me a chance to talk about #american history #and i took it #sorry if i didn't fully answer your question :(#Anonymous

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wolfofwinchester · 3 years

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What’s your opinion on Cordelia, Claudia? :3c

send my muse anons about their relationships. / concerning @saphireign

"The bravery on you, little one." A palliate smile smoothed across her lips, although the bite of arsenic lining the mulberry rim almost glowed at the corners. A subtle ignition that lit tension at the base of the spine and spread to the ribs to the perceived. Claudia could always speak easily of Cordelia, she did so very often! But she was something of a censor to energies in conversation, and the eldest's sisterly instincts naturally crept in when feeling a suspicious tide. "A person might come to think you're doing a little bit of digging for personal gain, asking questions like that. Mind yourself. ♪"

Ah, but she is compelled to play along. That's something she can do without a hitch.

"I've got nothing to hide; Cordelia is the most wonderful person you will ever come to meet!" Velvet palms flew to the ceiling, swung out to her sides! "Of course, people are bound to believe I'm biased - she is my literal other half, after all. We're two sides of the same bloody coin, kicking and rumbling about even before birth." And in her personal opinion, she thinks Cordelia might carry a little resentment because she was the one shot into the world first, but that's an amusing thought that stays locked in Claudia's head. For the most part. It might have slipped out in a drunken babble between the tipsy twins once or twice during a good-willed sisterly discourse. “But I tell you in honesty that it’s the truth. My sister is the center of my universe and I love her dearly, even if taking a joke isn’t her forte.” There are times where it even ends with a concerning cacophony of noises that lead the stressed Earl to believe that at least one of them is about to meet her demise by the other’s paws.

Fingers curl like spider legs, providing a rest for a chilly cheek. It was no overdramatic jest, that; ever since she was young, Claudia’s life revolved around family, and she was a twin! Everything that she did, she did with Cordelia at her side. Every step of the way since they were born, that’s exactly how it has been. They were even serrated from the humble but enriched they were born into, ripped from loving embraces to an empty chamber of a cold, cold manor. Together, they were changed. Cordelia’s become more steely, and in turn, Claudia’s teeth became more sharper. Ó Faoláins were survivors, and they found that out such a harsh way. Neither properly bent in ways their father had wished, neither set in ways that were deemed appropriate. They learned the elegance of course, but it was only an aesthetic that wrapped around what indomitable girls they were, and what women they became.

They were beasts wrapped in lovely shades of blue and green, and together, they had left scars in society that serve as lasting reminders of what they are: sisters, who are not made from the same material as e’ery other blue-blooded dandy and frill who have come to flock them. No amount of indoctrination ever changed that.

However, life was certainly not any easier - especially since they were both bastards, and for that, Claudia was relieved she inherited the role of successor. It wasn’t for fortune, it wasn’t for accolades, and it certainly wasn’t for the fact well-bred men lined their doorway with proposals (gods, no). It was for the fact that Cordelia, as what they so callously call “the spare”, would not be forged to the same expectations as is tradition for the Head. No children were to be expected from her, no husband was a necessity - and certainly, no “familial” enforcement to bend the knee to the tyrant Victoria. These were a crown of thorns that Claudia would wear, while Cordelia would be able to maintain some semblance of tampered freedom. The Countess would do everything in her power to see to her favorite magpie retaining some power of flight.

If those things weren’t enough, it was the rot in her gut that really cemented determination to keep clutch on the title. Some may think it paranoia, but Claudia knew visions when her cruel Divine blessed them; an ascendance of Cordelia would mean dark tidings. As cold as Cordelia is now, becoming successor would make her a full blown winter. It would empower that sense of isolation, and bring about values that their true family never preached. That alone was enough.

“And while I think she could always do with a better sense of humor,” a cheeky grin, knowing daggers could very well be leered in her direction. “I can’t deny she’s much more coordinated than I am. I really do envy that; it’s almost as if her mind is more well-put together than mine is! And how can that be when we’re twins!” How alike they appeared, how eerily similar -- and yet the way their minds worked, they were frequently night and day in terms of personality. Cordelia was more clean, more organized, proficient.. Claudia, on the other hand, was something of an eccentric’s mess who was the one of the two to know the method of her own madness (the other of course, and unsurprisingly, being Cordelia). Not that anyone else could tell in this newfound life, minus a frustratingly perceptive Undertaker. “But I suppose that’s one reason we balance ourselves out so well - we’re a very grand balancing act, you know.”

It was hard to differentiate the usage of “I” and “we” when it came to them. As different as they could be, and certainly were, there was no doubt in the mind that they were truly the same. They walk in different bodies, they take different forms of transportation, and they surround themselves with different aesthetics -- but their hearts beat as one. When one breaks a bone, the other is going to suffer a dull ache. When one falls, the other is going to feel the cold. So Claudia finds it difficult to ever speak of herself without speaking of Cordelia as well, and finds it difficult to speak of Cordelia without including herself.

The Goddesses took a star and broke it in half, and while it learned to walk on its own, it was still connected.

A slow tapping of the Countess’s foot eases to a stop. “I do know for a complete fact that Delia is the strongest I’ve ever come to know, and I’ve met many people since our lives began, and I remember many of them. She is the hard spine of a book, and I’m the leather.”

She is the one whose story will continue to forge onward. Her own ending will be of her own making, let it be happy, sad, unsatisfactory, or completed with nothing more to say. Whatever it is, she will have her own ending. Claudia’s already foreseen her own fairy tale come to its end, and she knows Cordelia’s will be a thicker book, as it is meant to be.

“When I say I love my sister, I mean it with every ounce of my heart, and I am not riddled with paranoia or concern about others knowing that, thinking it is a weakness. No. I love her, and let that be perceived as a threat to everyone."

#【 ic. 】 ¦ & with a wolfish grin.#【 &claudia. 】 ¦ bí fainiciúil den snag breac; na fiacla a bhíonn ag bite; an crúba é sin greim.#【 v. the spare. 】 ¦ & i am her other half; for better or worse.#【 asks. 】 ¦ what all that howlin’s for.#(( I rewrote this since the other one was written while I was very tired |D I hope this is okay! ))#(( tl;dr: claudia loves her twin - and yes. that is a threat. she is to be left /alone/. ))#long post

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jasonsutekh · 3 years

Text

Metropolis (1927)

The son of an industrial tyrant travels to the worker’s city to learn about them and falls in love, but his father employs a mad scientist to give a robot the young woman’s face and sabotage any chances of rebellion.

The scale of this film makes it something of a spectacle. There are very large, elaborate sets with many extras at times and seeing them all moving together in sync is amusing and works effectively to reinforce the subtext that the workers are part of the machine. It’s also interesting when the scenery becomes more subjective and takes on the mantle of old gods consuming the lives of the city’s civilians.

The workings of the city aren’t entirely explained, for example why there was a huge machine specifically for not flooding the lowest city levels or how much of the instruments are primitive wheels and levers but the capacity for full cybernetics and A.I. is available. The weakest part of the subtext is that the fate of the city relies entirely on one mediator when a really satisfactory message would be every person working towards the same end.

Most of the acting is fairly good, if a little overdramatic at times but that works with the exaggerated scale of the fictional world. The dual role of the love interest and robotic antagonist are performed very differently and the design of the robot is iconic. The music is also a strong element because its length and interaction with the narrative reinforces the continuity and scale of the piece.

Although the ending is presented as happy, there are some parts that aren’t entirely satisfactory. For example there isn’t an actual punishment for the tyrant who caused much of the grief in the first place; the scientist is punished but is also presented as mad so isn’t as culpable for his actions as the city master whose intentions were all deliberately malicious. Similarly the thin man gets away without consequence and the friendly worker who saves Freder isn’t so much as mourned.

6/10 -Just a cut above average-

-Several high ranking Nazis proclaimed enjoyment of the film, much to Fritz Lang’s disgust.

-Multiple exposures were done practically, by filming and then rewinding the camera to play new footage over the old, sometimes up to 30 times.

-In an early English version, references to the character Hel were dropped because the name is similar to the word “Hell”; the result was that the reason for the machine woman’s creation was missing.

#Film #Review #Metropolis #1927 #Science Fiction #Sci Fi #Silent Film #Silent #Fritz Lang #LewisSutekh

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whatthefuckistevvs · 5 years

Note

Despite only being in our care for a fleeting few months, Prince has earned his name. He eats better than anyone in the house (he receives very expensive, grain free, pure cod kibbles, and on top of that gets chicken cooked for him every week), he makes it very clear that he is the leader of the household, and is one of the most overdramatic kittens I’ve seen in my life. Despite all this, me and my mother would give life and limb for our little tyrant.

god cats are either like children and yet the king of the houses. our oldest cat, mom says “he is the king of this house!!!” and pets him

#Anonymous

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darkballsofsight · 5 years

Text

If two ride on a horse, one must ride behind

PI 03/08/2019

Your name is Pembrooke Ingleton and by the bequest of the equestrian sort, you're on your way to the Church of the Mirthful in the hopes of seeing if any of the goers there have any insight to the whereabouts of one Gamzee Makara. The friendly baker, who you really do hope nothing bad has befallen him. Which is likely why you offered to be the one to speak to the Baron.

Admittedly you are a bit worried about your backup. Not out of anything personal. Just that well, the Baron certainly had a sway of his own when it came to your troll inclined officers. And you haven't had much a chance to see Darkleer in action on the field.

Still, Redglare has full confidence in him so you stand by her, and as you make your way up to the churches door...you are standing by him as you knock. Or ring a bell. Or honk something. Whatever this church has for their door alerting of guests device. Not that you're really too concerned...the way you feel watched gives you the impression he likely was alerted to your approach before you made it up the steps. Also gives you the heebie jeebies.

Creepy creep clowns.

GHB 03/08/2019

Sam was notified when they were about two blocks out. The clown had been...restless. His hier hadn't come to church, hadn't spoken online. For some time...

Others of the church suspected foul play. Sam suspected a bender. Which happens to the young ones, here and there. But.

But.

There had been other dissaperances too. Other derse borns who had come. That do not any longer. If it is a Challenger in his own ranks, he would accept it. But the sneaky sneak of slipping away doesn't sit well.

Silently the churchlings had begun a recovery mission earlier in the week, finding little. But still they search.

Azriphale opens the doors, eyes Byzantine bright purple as he assesses the visitor. He recognizes the inspector ...less so his tall companion. But he has suspicion.

Wordlessly he turns from the door, beckoning them in.

There's prayer, quiet and whispered that feels like it's coming from nowhere and everywhere, candles and inscense rising and guttering with the sound rhythmically. The walls are painted...in paint. Maybe blood, the tang of it heavy in the air. Skulls and bones tinkle in chimes, crunch underfoot...

Then they hear the growls, rattling the windows, echoing off the walls. The throne was empty, but bright eyes flashing purple hung in the shadows of the rafters. Sam's voice sounded like an angry tiger trying to speak, wrath tinging his words.

"Why is you desecrating my sanctum, Expatriate." They can hear claws scratching on wood, but can't see it, fear wreathing around them.

Darkleer 03/08/2019

You've been uneasy since the moment you heard 'clown church'. Purple bloods on Derse you could deal with. Even with the Makara heir, the very same that went missing now. But to know that they dragged their whole faith here... You have a lot of thoughts, and none of them positive. Most of all though, you're concerned about the influence they may have on this city.

But you don't back down from the assignment. After all you want to prove your capability for this job. And you don't want to let this puny human your boss walk right into the clown's den alone and unprotected.

You follow Lt. Ingleton, as quiet and stoic as the Zahhaks tend to do, and you follow inside when the clowns invite you. When you left Alternia, the inside of a clown church is the last thing you ever expected to see again. And the stench.. you're far too familiar with the smell of troll blood. How can this even be tolerated on Derse?

You can hear him before you see him, a still far too familiar voice. The Grand Highblood. That, in their language, motherfucker. Of COURSE he'd be here. Your concern for the planet just increased tenfold.

You don't flinch. Even with his overdramatic greeting, he doesn't scare you. The mind games his ilk can do are not a concern. You have fiddled with your brain long enough so that no one else could. And gone are the times where he is part of the royal caste you have to bow to. He doesn't have power over you, not anymore.

You have a healthy amount of respect, sure. He's still a dangerous individual. But you're more concerned for your company than yourself.

A displeased puff escapes you. You wanted to leave the talking to the Lieutenant, but that ass decided to adress you personally. Oh, how you want to tell him there's nothing sacred to be found in these halls. No, you're on duty and in fact not here to pick a fight with the second-biggest tyrant of old Alternia.

"We are investigating the missing report of a purple blood, Gamzee Makara" you state factually.

PI 03/09/2019

Oh. There's that sensation again, as you feel your heart start to race and a shivver go up your spine. The Baron certainly had...something about him didn't he. Sort of an aura that certainly instilled a fight or flight into a person. Cold and bone chilling indeed.

You inhale slowly, and exhale as well. Logically, you know this is an unnatural sensation...but not that it really helps in regards to lowering the emotional hackles that are now raised and screaming in your nerves.

If there was a history between these two, you'll get to that later. For now, you inhale again and nod as you refocus on the task at hand. "Indeed. According to close friends, he has vanished and in a manner unlike himself. Officer Darkleer and I were tasked to come by to see if you could ask a few questions about when you saw him last."

Glancing up at the rafters, you frown ever so slightly as you briefly recall the last time you were in this building during the whole Trickster fiasco...

"If you would prefer an interview off church grounds, we'd be happy to oblige."

GHB 03/10/2019

He bloody well should be uncomfortable with the clown church. The bright eyes extinguish over the throne, and the fear dissipates. There's silence for a few moments, save the chanting of the Mirthful themselves, ever in crescendo or diminuendo in strange, dysphonic patterns. Sam is moving silently in the rafters, considering how to respond...

He's an asshole, choosing to drop just behind them -Out of reach with the Expatriate- with a Blazing Fear designed to shock and cower. They only hear the softest of footpad falls when his feet connect to the ground, as he stands his full regal height of...not taller than Margrave... Shirtless, polkadotted pants neat andd trim,, but bones and beads threaded together in necklaces and bracelets. Blood maybe crusted under his claws. The glow of his eyes is enough to cast a shadow of the two over the throne. Paint crisp and terrifying as ever.

Sameadi bares his teeth, snarling. "And you bring an ingrate to my church. I am being thankful of the offer, Inspector...but you is already here." Perhaps there's enough to strip the calf from the herd, bring him to his rightful motherfuckin slaughter. He sizes them up out of habit...the only back exit is a hidden door--perhaps perhaps. Give it time, old man. He'll finally reign himself in-giving the impression of instability is always useful.

"You investigate but do not give information, Darkleer. Your report is motherfuckin incomplete, yo work below par. Motherfuckin expected of a traitor and coward." ...Okay he can't help but instigate a bit. Ooops~ A sneer is directed breifly at Darkleer as he turns his attentions to Ingleton.

"We is take care of our own, brother. I is appreciating of yo offers, but our people are our people. Iffen you find them before we does--perhaps it be better for they." He lets that sink in as he pauses. "But We's been searchin fo th boy, being finding little as of yet. His scent been grown dark and cold. There is been others. An I is motherfuckin disappointed you ain't been made th connection. Derse borns not of th church, but come and praise. Gone an missin. Or gone an returned by fire. Do you think not we want vengeance an justice?" His wrath is ticking up juuust a bit.

Darkleer 03/11/2019

He finally deigns to come down. A wave of something washes over you and tickles something in the back of his head. His vile magic doesn't affect you, but you're aware what he's trying. Curse him.

You turn around towards him, making a small step to the side to position yourself between the Baron and the Lieutenant who is probably not as unaffected. While you try to make yourself as small as possible around everyone else, being faced by him, you straighten your back to reach your full height. Taller than him, you'll have him know. Not by much, admittedly, but the point is being made.

You try to keep the thoughts running through your mind low and listen to hi- Incomplete. Did he just. Hr. You huff. He may call you all kinds of names, but to call your work inadequate. No, of course you don't bring information, you have none yet. You came here to get some you have JUST started the work. He ought to know this. How DARE- Hhh.

You choke down so many unnecessary angry retorts and chastise yourself for lowkey wishing to find the heir dead. For all you know, the boy may not actually deserve that.

He doesn't know anything and even if he did, he wouldn't tell you, the Baron made that much clear. "He is not to be found under this roof" you state, for the Lieutenant, most of all, but also as the probably most single weakest jab you could make at the Baron.

Though, the remark about the Derse born. Your ear flicks when he mentions that. That may be a thing worth investigating. "You have no right to take justice into your hands. Not on this planet. You need to desist from action." You're aware what kind of vengeance purplebloods are out for. He won't stop, you know. Part of you hopes. A reason to bring him down for good.

PI 03/11/2019

Despite your frame and average jitters, you aren't what would be defined as weak-willed. One really can't be in this line of work where you're at. But, that doesn't necessarily make you immune to emotion, even when you know something is amiss. And even if you're not cowering, the wave is enough to cause you to find yourself unable to breathe as your legs lock up, freezing you in place as you try to regain your breath.

Inwardly you are thankful for Darkleer stepping in front. Outwardly, you're slowly replacing the pale shock with an agitated expression. You are indeed well aware of the burned bodies, half the reason you came here personally is because you had a hunch perhaps there was a connection.

"That is the problem with making a connection, sir. When people don't take the time to inform us people have gone missing because they're too busy trying to handle it themselves...lo and behold we miss a detail. It would have been nice to know there had been others vanishing, versus discovering this fact after so many others had gone missing." Your stance straightens as you straighten your coat, breathing returned to normal. "We came here to help, so your aggressive posturing and....whatever it is you are doing...is rude. And the implications of vigilantism is noted."

Your nerves are screaming, but you stand ground since you all know if you two were to vanish right here and now that it would be a mess that the Baron and ultimately the Crew would not want to deal with. Especially on a cusp of a gangwar brewing.

"Is there any other connections than Derse born? How is someone able to differentiate a Derse born member of your church from offworld?"

GHB 03/11/2019

That doesn't mean that Sammy isn't thinking on it mightily. His scelera flash red briefly, a low grumbling snarl under his breath.

That puny human is fodder. Darkleer is. Again. On the wrong side. How frustrating. Sam tilts his head to the side, a too wide smile draping over his face lazily.

"S all bout presentation, brother inspector. " He steps around them easily, a sashaying stride back to the throne.

"An you is dismissed, Darkleer. 'd rightly prefer speakin at yo superior." His wave is as condescending as his tone >

But at least he's focusing on the Inspector alone. For now. Darkleer is going to be noted and dealt with later, if his scathing expression relates anything.

"It ain't uncommon fo those who ain't been grown in th church to come an go 's they please." His voice takes a wounded tone when he looks over the inspector. "Were I knowing earlier I woulda said sommat earlier. It were part of us lookin this here week, so's sommat coul be said 't all." If he had had his way, he'd merely point him at the corpses of the desceased and say they came to an unfortunate end.

His head rests on his palm, watching the two of them intently. "Cain't rightly say. Sometides they ain't wear th paint an protection. Th gods cain't see they wi'out 't. Were there of the church bretheren missin I woulda raised th alarm 't a mo punctual tide t yo likin. We is tight knit, we is alway on guard." We're always ready to kill is unsaid.

Darkleer 03/11/2019

Your gaze stays fixed on him as he walks past the two of them. Nothing about his attitude and unnecessary pompous act has changed. The only thing that has changed is that you don't need to bow to him anymore. And yet..

"You are not the one dismissing me" you reply with a snarl. If the Inspector wants you to leave, you will. But it wouldn't sit well with you to leave anyone alone in this place.

PI 03/11/2019

This marks the second time the Baron has pulled rank on of your officers in front of you. Well, in this instance tried to. God...damnit you swear the powerful players of this city are singlehandedly having a contest amongst themselves of who can dance the longest on your last nerve with their flaunting.

You inhale.

Despite your utmost desire, you will not poke this bear. It's tempting to, there's certainly a few choice words and barbed sentences you could respond with...but you have a job to do. A job where someone's life is potentially at stake.

You exhale, and put a soft step on your bubbling pride internally.

"I see." you say, acknowleding Darkleers comment but choosing to ignore outright as you stay on task. Though you mentally note to have a talk with all your blue blooded officers later. Turning to the Baron you continue. "A list of names of those missing would be appreciated, as well as the names of any deceased. We may be able to uncover an unexpected link your own have missed in our teams."

Folding your arms, you give him a somber expression. "We all want to get to the bottom of this, and save those gone missing. Find out those responsible. The more hurdles set up, the longer it takes, and the higher the odds of Mister Gamzee being the next body found increases."

You've already prepared for him to refuse or to continue his focus on Darkleer, which is fine. You've gotten enough information from this meeting as is.

GHB 03/12/2019

Sam has a smug smile on his face as Darkleer is summarily dismissed regardless. The foal could pretend Sam didn't have pull, but clearly Sam is still higher on the food chain.

His fingers snap and there's a wordless whisper, a paper appears in his hand. "Considerin you done notified me a one, this shouln't be necessary. These is ones what haven't come, though they names coul be assumed an not original. Derseborns are...not as strict with names an titles. They's not as often named in records nuther. Sommat I's been tryina address wi th council here."

The thought of these tech phobic fools being able to find something the Alternians could not is a fantasy. Clearly. Hmph.

"An 's Mr. Gamzee Makara. A brother of high birth an accord. An heir to th head of church, should he take ambition." Sam shifts, standing up with an unnerving grace.

"Iffen 't all possible, 'd prefer you t be workin th case, Inspector. Yorn insight an diligence---is far superior. " that's mildly directed at Darkleer.

Darkleer 03/12/2019

The Lieutenant isn't dismissing you, so you stay, though quietly. It's somewhat of a relief that the Inspector has taken over the conversation now and the Baron actually makes a pretense of cooperation.

Your lip twitches a bit at his comment, but you don't let him drag you down on his level anymore. The sooner the two of you can get out of here, the better.

PI 03/12/2019

Gamzee being a potential heir was something you weren't aware of, so huh...another thing to factor. "It would not be my first rodeo when it comes to aliases and I expect it will far be from my last. Still, I've yet to have a case where I had too much information so the list is appreciated."

The possibility someone is targeting purple blooded individuals is unsettling, but that they're somehow able to target specifically Derse-born is peculiar. Perhaps there is a secondary link involved that hasn't made itself aware. You have a few hunches, but that will take work to follow them.

"I fully intend to. He's a good sort, a talented baker. I've had the fortune to meet him before so I'd rather see nothing ill befall him." You stand proper as the Baron rises. "If you discover any further things, it'd be appreciated if you let us know." Appreciated, but frankly not expected. The internal clock in your mind has already set this as a race to solving this before the Baron and his men get their claws on whoever is responsible and then...well you expect everything is going to hit a not mysterious at all dead end.

GHB 03/12/2019

He makes point to note it due to the fact it could give a greater possibility that Gamzee survives. He hands over the paper easily, the ink is of a questionable nature. "Th list ain't complete by far, but these is th missin we've associated wi."

He wouldn't know the secondary link, but he'll gladly postulate on one. "I ain sure whyfor th church folk is targeted, but I am wondering if 't is political in natures. There are many that would be of a dislike of me fo former days--" Pointed look at Darkleer.

"But I's got faith you is in th right in yo search, brother. Iffen you is need any 'll be glad t lend towards 't. " His desire for additional information...mmm. "I'll does mah best if by an large I's come by sommat else. Be looking you on the toolmarkings of th dead, they is alway tell us stories."

He pauses, glancing at a middle distance as whispers of magic float his way. "Our words is alway carried somewheres."

Darkleer 03/12/2019

What. Is that look supposed to mean. Well, yes. You dislike him for former days. And current ones. He's not implying you would have it out for him and his church, is he? You wouldn't sink so low. You're intending to act well within the laws of this planet.

You let out another irked snort, jaw clenched tightly. You're not going to respond to his prods. Not today. You have weathered enough insult and ill demeanor from your superiors over centuries to build enough patience to deal with his.

PI 03/13/2019

Looking down at the paper, the names listed don't give an immediate ping of recognition. But then again names are what they are. Still...it is something to lead onto. Though the realization this could be part of a serial killer or targeted attack is still settling into the equation.

"The help is noted and appreciated Baron." you say aloud, remembing that right...courtesy and protocol. This man is still very much an ambassador for Alternia after all. "I think we can all agree that getting to the bottom of this is in everyone's best interests. And I fully plan to do just that."

There is a pause, as you glance from Darkleer...to the Baron...then back. There's a history there, and as much as you'd like to know it, time and place. "Thank you for your time and assistance. And this information. I'd say we shall no longer darken your doorstep...but..." turning back you look at...well you just wave your hand in the direction you assume the door is in. "...I honestly expect I'm going to bang my shins on every object on the way to the door at this time. Next time I'm bringing a flashlight."

GHB 03/15/2019

Yeah he definately means he thinks Darkleer would sabotage something. Sam's voice rumbles with a growl as the candles in the church grow brighter. In a few padded steps, he's turning the inspector in the correct direction with an amused smile. " D ast tha certain parties being not included in th investigation, but I is thinking that is an ast too far. Th door 's t th right, brother." He straightens again, smoothing down his hair quickly.

"An I knows you is will do yo level best, as I would. Be sure t keep a brother updated some, yeah? I ain't much like t be out th loop in such things." Eyes shine in the shadows as they trace the procession, breaths held in anticipation. Surely the Highblood would spill the blood of the offender. The sancrosanct demands it. He waves off unspoken pleas for blood with a wave of his hand.

Darkleer 03/16/2019

You will personally make sure the Grand Highblood will hear as little about this as possible. Or you will at least advice the Lieutennant of as much, since you are not the one to decide these things.

At least you're leaving now. During the talk your gaze has been fixed on Samedi the whole time. You're only hesitantly turning your back towards him, but you're not granting him even a second of attention morer than absolutely necessary.

You did take notice of the Inspector pointing out his apparently insufficient eyesight. Right, humans don't see as well in the dark. You would offer to guide him or even carry him, but considering your rank, you're not sure if that would be compatible with his pride. You still go ahead, some of your technological parts on your head and under your shirt lighting up just a tad more to help him find the way.

PI 03/16/2019

Curse your Prospitian totally human eyesight. How nice it must be to be a troll or Dersite in the sense of being able to see in the darkness easier. Probably saves a doozy on the electric bills as well.

"Of course." you say, then note the candles light raise. Ok...that was actually pretty impressive presentation. What you'd do to have an ambience like that when officers came into your office. "I'll keep in touch."

You follow Darkleer and graciously manage to avoid dinging into several objects thus allowing you a graceful departure to the door. "Take care, and talk to you later." Even if not about this, you doubt it will be the last time you speak to the Baron.

As you make it outside the door, you give a sideways glance to Darkleer to gauge his disposition. Not really wanting to speak up just yet until you're well out of any remote earshot of the church. This place you swear. The heebies AND the jeebies.

Darkleer 03/16/2019

Your face is hard and grim. This has been a frustrating and frankly mildly shocking encounter. You're not going to speak up about this unless PI asks you.

PI 03/16/2019

After a few blocks, you finally speak up.

"Are you doing alright?" you say with a concerned tone. Now that the pressure of keeping things proper and official is off, you find yourself more worried about how the interraction between the two had gone down. "I apologize for not acknowledging the dismissal commentary. At the time, I felt it would turn the discussions focus on that rather than the task at hand...but I did not want to give the impression that I was ignoring you."

Darkleer 03/17/2019

His question takes a moment to register, so deep into thought and frustration you are. But you stop to look at him.

"You did absolutely nothing wrong, sir. He did, that. Wretched. Two-faced. Pisspoor excuse of a-. Hrhk, pardon the language." You give an angry snort.

"I did not.. expect him to be here. But that explains the presence of his violence-thirsty church."

PI Last Monday at 12:12 AM

"Mmm...my apologies. He has been here a time, somewhat of an ambassador representative to Alternia, or so the cover be." You give a glance around, making sure you're both well out of earshot of anyone and you suspect Darkleers hearing is good enough to catch your quietest mumbles. "All but confirmed to have Crew ties, would not be surprised if his church operates alongside gang activities."

You give him a sympathetic look as he apologizes. "Is it wrong of me to assume the two of you have history? Or is this just an idealological difference in a very severe way?"

Darkleer Last Monday at 9:35 AM

You catch his look around and try to keep your own voice low, even if the anger is boiling up inside you. "I.. served as the Executioner under the Alternian Empire, and he the judge. It was my task to bring down anyone he wanted to see dead - if he didn't choose to take care of it himself. I deeply regret my actions back then, even when I believed I had no other choice."

You had no intention of keeping any secrets, but just as well you didn't expect this to ever be a matter of concern on this planet. Obviously, thinking for yourself has never been your strength.

"He is one of Alternia's most influental figures besides the Empress, much to the chagrin of every other seadweller.. and the cost of everyone below. An embassador he may be, but he cares little for anyone not sharing his color. That he is here.. I am not sure if he would do less harm here or on Alternia.. Best would be neither."

PI Last Tuesday at 8:57 AM

A solemn nod is given. Some of these things were things that you had pieced together, but there was something to be said for having suspicions confirmed and to hear it from the individual themselves. A notch of respect given...goodness knows he isn't the first person on the force who has had a dark past.

"It always baffles me why some of the more...influential individuals would have an interest in Midnight City. It's not even like there is...a lot here? Pardon my rudeness and racial insensitivity here, but I would figure they'd have more important things to do than run a church and petty mobster crimes on a backwater planet....so says the hypocritical man working as an officer on said planet."

Darkleer Last Tuesday at 8:06 PM

You fall silent for a moment as you think about that. That is a good question that you're not quite sure you got the answer to. You have a hunch... a terrible one.

"The Alternian Empire was built on the discovery and... conquest of other planets and their residents. A small planet this is, but a planet regardless." As you try to explain this, another idea creeps up on you.

"Another terrible reason may be that the Empire's control of its people has been gradually slipping since the rebel movements have risen up. A lot of the more.. free-thinking trolls seem to find their way to this planet. Should they ever decide to return, they could bring some radical changes with them."

You haven't gotten to spend much time with the trolls of this city and precinct yet, but considering the fact that trolls of all castes work together and with such a different hierarchical structure was proof of that enough. Putting that thought into words makes you realize though... should the baron choose to influence or cull any of these young trolls, be it your own descendants, the young Peixes or any of the lowbloods, there is very little standing between him and them that can take him on.. besides you, maybe.

PI Last Tuesday at 10:20 PM

That was not something you had considered, but it would make a decent amount of sense if it was the case. From what you've gathered, the trolls born on Derse have already shown radical differences than those who were born under Alterian influences. And who knows...if they were to show that such a life is inherently better, yeah you could see how that would affect a word such as Alternia.

Your frown deepens. "I do...worry for officer Piexes. From what I've gathered, her blood type is royalty. Meaning from old system standards with there being a lack of empress, she would have means to attempt to claim said throne. Considering her connection to Ampora and Amporas connection to Dualscar and..." you take a breath. Curse you connection chain. "Dualscars connection to the Baron...I have no doubt the Baron could see her as a very tempting target to pull under his sway..."

Mm. Yeah no. You don't like that. No sir ree bob. Maybe your just feeling overprotective cause you fed her fish as a grub or something. But mmm...yeah no. No like. Adjusting your coat, you shake your head. "I suppose we'll have to keep alert."

Darkleer Last Wednesday at 9:37 AM

You just give an agreeing grunt. Though you hadn't realized she was connected to.... "Dualscar." That is a name you didn't hear in a while. Not someone you ever got to interact with, but yet another old troll on a planet full of unsuspecting young ones. Hhn.

"We do." Maybe you should talk with the young Peixes about that? She seemed to innocently unaware and unaffected by all of Alternia's system and her heritage and you'd hate to ruin that, but you don't want to have her stumble into the hands of people that might use or hurt her.

PI Last Wednesday at 7:35 PM

"We do." you echo as you bundle yourself up, the biting cold outside suddenly feeling more intrusive than before. "As an aside, thank you for your assistance earlier and for coming along with me for this."

Darkleer Last Wednesday at 10:08 PM

You nod. "No thanks needed. It was my job to accompany you." And you're glad for it. There's a good chance the Baron had no intentions to hurt him, but.. he is still a dangerous and unpredictable man. "If you need assistance in dealing with him in the future, let me know."

PI Last Thursday at 5:41 AM

"Hehe..." you chuckle. "Here I was about to offer the same to you." It's true, you lack the...well beyond obvious physical clout that most trolls boast much less those of Darkleer or the Baron. But you were not without your own authority and connections in this city.

Not that you really expect a lot of legislation and regulations would necessarily stop the Baron from popping your head off your body like a dandelion should he feel inclined. BUT NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO CONSIDER THAT.

"Let's get back to the precinct. We have a lot of investigating and work to do."

Darkleer Last Thursday at 9:22 AM

"I will keep that in mind." You didn't expect him to be of much help to you for dealing with the Baron, especially with him being someone that has grown up outside of Alternia. You might peruse his advice so you don't act against Derse's law. Though admittedly, he dealt with the clown fairly well back then, and especially with his outsider's view, he might open a few new perspectives.

You give him another nod. With all said and done, you quietly follow him back.

#logs

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jflashandclash · 6 years

Text

Attrition of Peace

Forty-One: Ajax

We Could Have had a Slide, or a Fire Pole

Had Pax not genuinely been terrified that Hera would turn Alabaster into a Christmas ornament if she got her hands on the child of magic, Pax would have thought hiding against the wall with him was kinda hot.

But the way Alabaster gritted his teeth and trembled with anger at the Queen of the Gods’ presence was a bit of a deterrent. Will’s alarmed shouts at Euna made things more difficult. When Pax peeked his head in the doorway and saw Joey had been turned into a statue, the chances of a boner went from unlikely to nonexistent.

Pax’s head was on too much of a delay to fully process what had happened. First, Hera was calling his mother, and Alabaster’s wonderful mother, whores—falsehoods, though Pax couldn’t speak for Will and Jack’s dad—and then Hera made one of his dead friends into the best staring contest partner ever.

Normally, Pax thought shouting, “no!” for a prolonged period of time was overdramatic, but this situation might warrant the dramatics.

Especially when Euna stepped out of Cabin Two. Her eyes looked blank. She held Backbiter in one clenched fist and the rosewood box in the other.

Pax hadn’t realized he was crying again until he saw the emptiness on her face.

Alabaster said something to her, but Pax couldn’t make out his words.

Euna wasn’t really the hugging type from what he gathered. And Pax knew Euna had trouble looking at him because his features reminded her of Santiago Pax, his father—she often scowled when he brushed his hair out of his eyes. Last time though, he’d at least been able to talk to her about her sister’s death when he’d morphed into someone else. Everyone else had been stupid, saying “sorry,” but he knew “sorry” didn’t do anything for someone who was gone.

But her sister’s death had made sense last time: a heroine standing up to an unjust tyrant. This… this was…

Pax choked when he tried to stop his sobs.

Then he felt something latch around his wrists.

“Cho!” he cried. He glanced down to find splinter-ridden tree roots twisting around his skin. For a split, nauseating second, he could perfectly envision the shackles in his father’s temple.

This is the opener of passages, Backbiter hissed.

Euna’s put the rose-colored box in her pocket and reached forward to grab Jack by his crimson locks and wrench him from Pax’s belt.

“Hey!” Jack cried.

“Euna!” Alabaster snarled. He’d summoned his imperial gold gladius from a card. “We’re not your—” Vines snapped up from the ground, snagging around his arms.

Euna wasn’t looking at either of them though. She held up Jack’s dripping head, like the christening of Simba in The Lion King.

“You said Gaea resurrected you because your voice can make the ground and air wither,” she said. “Can you make me a passageway to Tartarus?”

“Wow—you can’t just wrestle a man away from his friend’s belt and—”

Euna’s gaze narrowed. “Do it or I’ll cut out your tongue.”

“Oh—um—I think I can—” Jack’s tone had altered from offended to nervous. “If Orpheus can crack open the world to what lies beneath, then so can I.”

“Then sing,” Euna’s voice quivered.

The tree root around Pax’s left arm went slack. Numbly, he glanced down to see Alabaster had sliced through his own bindings and was working on Pax’s. “Euna—wait—what are you doing?!” Alabaster demanded, slicing through the roots around Pax’s right arm. “That might kill—”

Jack cleared his throat—what was left of his throat—and sang. Hearing Jack’s horrible retching notes made Pax grind his teeth. This was different than last time: it felt like Jack’s voice was amplified to the point of making accidental war with any aliens unfortunate enough to be flying by Earth. Hades, Pax was pretty sure a deaf person would try to strangle Jack right now and be disappointed there wasn’t enough neck left to strangle.

“Ain’t no mountain high enough,

Ain’t no valley low enough,

Ain’t no river wiiiiide enough,

To keep me from getting to you!”

The ground whined under their feet, like it was begging Jack to shut up. Pax sympathized—as much as he loved Jack, cutting his tongue out was starting to sound like a swell idea.

“My love is alive,

Way down in my heart,

Although we are miles apart.”

A throbbing erupted in Pax’s head. Beside him, Alabaster crumbled down to one knee. He’d dropped his sword and held his hands over his ears.

Weakness spread though Pax’s limbs. Without realizing it, he’d also put his hands over his ears, but the barrier did nothing. It was like wearing his anti-charm speaking headphones to cancel out a rocket blast or a scolding from Chiich.

Although she kept on her feet, with Backbiter in one hand and Jack in the other, Pax could see Euna starting to tremble. As though to alleviate the pressure against her eardrums, her mouth moved to scream, but the sound was swallowed by Jack’s wretched screech.

“If you ever need a helping hand,

I’ll be there on the double,

Just as fast as I can.

Don’t you know that there ain’t no mountain—”

The earth beside them released a thundering crack. Pax was pretty sure that was the sound of ground spirits trying to destroy themselves—maybe that’s why earthquakes happened.

The front half of Hera’s Cabin crumbled.

Pieces of marble splattered everywhere, so they could perfectly see the extinguished fire and statue of Joey smiling and Hera scowling in the back of the cabin.

In the rubble of the entrance, the ground snapped and crinkled. As the dust settled, they could see neat little tiers descending down into the blackness of the earth. The front of Hera’s cabin was now a set of stairs to nothing.

Jack stopped singing.

Despite the silence, Pax could still feel his ears ringing. “Dude!” he complained.

Jack was panting. “Voilà!” he said. “Now, I’m not privy to the idea of returning to Tartarus, so if you could redeposit me with the tiny Pax—”

Euna blossomed a beautiful, white flower in her hands and shoved it into Jack’s mouth. Then, she tied his hair around her belt loop.

Pax managed to get his feet working. He stumbled forward, careful not to tumble down that narrow passage. “Euna—I know it feels like we’ve hit rock bottom and we don’t want to take Joey for granite, but—but Hemera’s drops might still be messing with your head, and I know Backbiter sounds like the name of a nice, caring sword, but he’s not—”

Euna glanced his way.

Pax felt his rambles cut off at the icy rage in her black eyes.

“I want to do this,” she said, lifting the rosewood box from her pocket, the thing that could carry the essence of a god or an abstract thought. “Even the gods fear nothingness. I’m going to bring evisceration to them.”

And, with those words, the daughter of Demeter descended into nothingness, carrying Persephone’s box, Kronos’ scythe, and the head of Orpheus Metal.

But Pax wasn’t going to let another one of his friends disappear. Biting back his manly tears, he sprinted after her.

#The Attrition of Peace #Traitors of Olympus #PJO #Percy Jackson and the Olympians #hoo #Heroes of Olympus #fanfiction #writing #Pax #Alabaster #Euna #Jack #I feel bad when I laugh at Pax's jokes during chapters like this....#But he's so delightfully preoccupied

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