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A Doll is a construct made to be whatever its creator wishes it to be.
The doll came into the world worshipping humanity. She herself was empty of thought or feeling, but she knew she was a servant to something greater than herself. The hunters protect those weaker than themselves, and the Doll looks after those hunters.
Just like the Doll and the Hunters, the Hunters look up to the Great Ones, unfathomable and awe-inspiring. The Doll will never grow beyond her limitations of being made by man’s hands, just as humans can try to ascend, they’ll never reach those greatest heights.
At first, Gehrman loved her. Back then the Doll wouldn’t know how to use that word, she could barely understand the basic emotions or impulses he felt. She still can’t comprehend those emotions, but she can recognize them in others.
Gehrman spent countless hours with her, paying close attention to her every action. He reminded the Doll that he tenderly made her clothing, her jewelry, even her shoes. He crafted her image to every last detail. The doll is not a human, but he even took the time to paint moles across her arms, legs, and back, even if her clothing covers them all. He was meticulous in her design.
As her creator, that meant he knew better than anyone else that she was a construct. Still, he seemed to be surprised whenever she failed to understand his gestures.
The surprise turned to frustration.
If Gehrman told her not to speak back, then she wouldn't. If he wanted her to be quiet, gentle, and demure, then that is what she would become. She’s an empty vessel that will fit to become what her creator desires.
He desired someone to act out against him so he could instill obedience, but the Doll was already made with obedience carved into the core of her being.
Gehrman told her she should be bolder, but he made her to be meek. He said she should be a fighter, but he is the one who dressed her in lace and frills. The Doll does not have strong, calloused hands, how could she? She is not a person, her hands will remain smooth.
His dissatisfaction was against her modus operandi, she worships him, but the Doll was still incapable of pleasing him. Soon he drew away from her, commanding her to take care of other duties. This became easier for her. The Doll knows how to do mechanical and monotonous things, it’s much easier than trying to untangle what the human heart truly desires.
And perhaps there is a part of her that’s happy to no longer have those burning, fervent eyes looking at her, but never truly seeing her.