Trigger warning. Just skip by this if you're unconcerned with triggers and want to avoid the spoilers but this chapter will contain mentions of dysphoria and self harm. Y'all stay safe and take care of yourselves.
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There is something endlessly horrific that comes from being trapped within the confines of a husk of your own flesh. Some perhaps, might thrive as they feel their bodies shift and morph into something more; such is the case with those who purify their bloodline and become closer to that which their very essence calls for. For those who gradually shift into alternative shapes inherent to their nature, such changes and transformations encapsulate a euphoria rarely felt elsewhere. The experience of gradually and continuously becoming more true to one's very nature is something that is hard to rival.
I hope you enjoyed that because I was really looking forward to this chapter for the last couple months~ Of course, it's a bit brutal as well but I hope it came across well.
As a more personal author anecdote, I'm trans in case you weren't aware and that colours a lot of my writing, be it intentional or not, but this chapter was absolutely intentional and intended to juxtapose Dahlia's own sense of auphoria as she attains her new body. Something to note, however, is that in comparison to many other trans individuals, my own experiences with dysphoria are relatively minor. My eventual transition was spurred on by the constant nagging of self loathing and desire to have a different future than I initially set myself towards. And here we are now: I'm happy and writing stuff. But I bring this up because, despite my lower levels of dysphoria and dysmorphia, I still experienced it and am familiar with it. Josie wanting to dig her fingers in and tear away her own face was likely the most personal of what I described, but it's all very much an intentional and not subtle metaphor.
I hope it produced emotions of some variety and I hope you enjoyed the chapter all the same, despite some more uncomfortable themes.
As per usual, here is a link to the discord in case you want to hang out. Of note, a hiatus is on the horizon so joining the discord just for the sake of keeping up with what's happening might be worth it (don't worry, I won't judge you if you mute our shenanigans and only join to get official announcements). Like is here: https://discord.com/invite/sQ4jpShWQe
And as always, I hope you're having a wonerful day. You all treat yourselves well and get the selfcare you need and deserve <3