I read this a while back and have been intending for sometime to come back and leave a comment or three. I'm finally getting around to it!
Having recently rewatched this arc with the Guardian Rewatch group, I can recognize how neatly the plotline of this fic slides into canon.
Shen Wei suffers SO pretty here! To tell the truth, however, what grabs me even more in this introduction is Chu Shuzhi's internal perspective on the Envoy. Despite his astonishment that the Envoy can be hurt so badly, can be unable to heal, can collapse to the ground, Chu Shuzhi never loses the tiniest scrap of respect for him. This simple fact says a LOT about the depth of Chu Shuzhi's respect; it's not based simply on the Envoy's superpowerful strength or extraordinary collection of dark energy powers. Instead, he reveres the Envoy as a hero because of his selfless dedication, his integrity, and his devotion to justice. ♥ ♥ ♥
While Chu Shuzhi reveres the Envoy no less because of his vulnerability, he's now in an jarring and unexpected position where the Envoy needs help from him, rather than vice-versa. And the complete secrecy he's asking for will essentially render Chu Shuzhi's job of caring for him impossible--and so Chu Shuzhi's inner conflict is well established in this first section.
Another element that comes into play is Chu Shuzhi's refusal to think of himself as the least bit worthy in comparison to the Envoy, thwarting the Envoy's attempt to treat him with respect. The Envoy's words here, I know I can count on you, express how dependably and well Chu Shuzhi has served the Envoy, and making it clear that the Envoy isn't the one putting himself on a pedestal. It's SUCH a good way of demonstrating this insight through the narrative (I mean, showing not telling). *applauds*
Sorry for my slow reply, but ahhhhhhhh, I'm rolling around in this lovely thoughtful comment. Thank youuuuu! <33333
what grabs me even more in this introduction is Chu Shuzhi's internal perspective on the Envoy. Despite his astonishment that the Envoy can be hurt so badly, can be unable to heal, can collapse to the ground, Chu Shuzhi never loses the tiniest scrap of respect for him. This simple fact says a LOT about the depth of Chu Shuzhi's respect; it's not based simply on the Envoy's superpowerful strength or extraordinary collection of dark energy powers. Instead, he reveres the Envoy as a hero because of his selfless dedication, his integrity, and his devotion to justice. ♥ ♥ ♥
Ohhh, yes, what a great summary of their dynamic. *beams* :D <3
Comment on When your promise is a temple, and the roof caves in
Amedia on Chapter 1 Wed 17 May 2023 04:44AM UTC
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china_shop on Chapter 1 Sun 21 May 2023 09:32AM UTC
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