Just About Ready To Give Up And End It All

She kept on sobbing, crying, wailing loudly. Her face was tear-stained as she cried in the blond’s arms. Her words were jumbled and distorted. She didn’t even seem to notice that she was repeating so many words.

She just kept talking; it was almost like this was the first time she ever really got a chance to speak and let out all the emotions and feelings that she kept bottled up inside her. She’d been keeping all her troubles, loneliness and depression to herself, presenting the world with a cheerful façade, but the truth was hidden behind her smile.

And yet not one single person noticed how fake her smiles were and how unhappy she truly was. Only this blond noticed and only this blond cared enough to talk to her, comfort her, and be there for her. She wondered what she would have done if he hadn’t approached her because she was near her breaking point and was about ready to just give up and end it all; this pain was too much for her and she couldn’t take it anymore.

*Notes:
- This is part 5 of a 5-part short story
- Part 4
- Crying anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the depressed character in this story

Do You Know What Hurts The Most?

“It hurts, it hurts,” she cried out. “Do you really know how much it hurts? I feel so alone, so unloved, unwanted, and invisible. No one sees me, no one cares about me. All I ever wanted was a friend, even just one friend who’d be there for me. I just want someone to at least care and listen even just for a short while.

“Do you know what hurts the most? To me, what hurts the most is how I can’t even say that it hurts. Sometimes, I just want to scream out this pain to the entire world. Sometimes, I feel so angry and mad and pissed off and I- I just want- I’m so mad, and it hurts so much.

"I just want someone to notice and care and show concern. I just want one single friend. Is that too much to ask? Please, please, I don’t want to be alone anymore. It hurts so much. This pain is eating at me. I feel so sad and depressed. Sometimes, I just want to end it all. Oh, please, anyone, help me, help me!”

*Notes:
- This is part 4 of a 5-part short story
- Part 5
- Sad anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the depressed character in this story

Here are some of the comments from this story, back when it used to be posted elsewhere:

Divya Uikey P (&smtutorial):
There is nobody alone in this world. it is just our mind which thinks that we are alone. whenever I found myself alone I always spend time with God who sent us here and within us. The meditation is the process where I feel I am not alone.

Freya Yuki replied to &smtutorial:
Let’s agree to disagree 😃. I think there are some people who really do feel alone, who don’t have anyone who will be there for them or who can understand them or who will listen to them, or who will care for them, etc.

Sometimes, people can feel alone even if they’re surrounded by many other people for a number of different reasons, like because everyone is talking to everyone else and they have no one or because they feel invisible and ignored and like they don’t matter, etc.

And, everyone has their own beliefs and not everyone shares the same beliefs, but that doesn’t mean that people can’t be friends with each other even if they may have their differences; people can still get along in spite of that. But it’s good that you don’t or never have to feel alone 😃.

&crazyhorseladycx:
well dang it, i jest wanted to climb through the 'puter screen ‘n wrap my arms 'round this character 'n let her know that i put a new light bulb at the end of the tunnel 'n’d stay with her til she found her path.

Freya Yuki replied to &crazyhorseladycx:
Thanks. I’m sure she’s glad that there’s at least one person who will be there for her so she doesn’t have to feel so depressed or alone all the time.

Everyone needs some light in their lives, no matter how dim, so they can have something to hope for, something to look forward to, and so they can have the strength to keep on fighting and moving forward no matter how much it hurts and no matter how much they might feel like it’s not worth it and that they should just give up because all their efforts and hard work amount to nothing and they’re nothing, invisible and insignificant and no one cares about them or whatever happens to them since they don’t mean anything to anyone.

&crazyhorseladycx replied to Freya Yuki:
severe depression’ll make one have those very feelin’s ya describe so eloquently above. i so wish i had yer smooth way with words!

All I Ever Wanted Was Friendship

“Because I know what it’s like to want a friend. I know what it’s like to wish that someone would care, that someone would notice you, that someone would listen to you, understand you, be there for you. If you want me to, I can be your friend,” the blond said, sounding sincere, honest, and understanding.

As the blond continued to talk, she couldn’t help but start to tear up. “Yes,” she said when he finished speaking. “I’ve always, always wanted a friend.” She was really crying now, tears streaming down her face, but she couldn’t have stopped even if she wanted to.

She wrapped her arms around him, burying her head on his chest and cried. She sobbed loudly, tears continuing to fall down her face as she practically wailed. She even tried to punch him weakly, letting out all her anger and pain and sadness and hurt.

The blond held her tightly, patting her gently on the back. He said nothing, but his presence spoke volumes. He comforted her. He listened to her. He didn’t judge her. He was just there, offering her a shoulder to cry on, his friendship, and it was all she ever wanted.

*Notes:
- This is part 3 of a 5-part short story
- Part 4
- Crying anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the characters hugging in this story

Is It Okay To Feel The Way I Do?

“Oh, it’s you. Hello,” she said. She would have asked him what he was doing here, but she knew that already (there was a party, after all. Why else would he be here?). “What was all that about?” she asked instead, wanting to know why the blond had hugged her all of a sudden; that was odd, strange and weird to say the least.

The blond returned her greeting with a nod. “You look like you need one,” he said in answer to her question.

She stared at him. “Wh-what? What do you mean?”

The blond smiled knowingly at her. “I know,” he said, as if he really did know everything.

Before she could react to that, he was pulling her back into his arms, into a friendly hug. “It’s okay, you know?” he said. “To feel the way you do. I understand. You don’t have to keep it to yourself. I’m here to listen. Tell me about it.”

She looked at him, trying to see if he was sincere, if he meant it. She could see no lies on his face or his eyes. All she saw was understanding, honesty, and concern. “Really? But why?”

*Notes:
- This is part 2 of a 5-part short story
- Part 3
- Crying Fairy Tail anime pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the characters hugging in this story

Do You Know The Truth Behind This Smile?

She stood against the wall with a smile frozen on her face. She looked so happy as she watched everyone around her, talking and laughing and dancing and generally having a good time. She was always smiling and looking happy; it seemed nothing could ever make her sad or depressed.

There was something lurking beneath her eyes though. She didn’t think anyone would ever notice even if the truth was right there in front of them. Either no one noticed or they just didn’t care. Well, so what? She didn’t care either. She just continued to smile at everyone. In case you didn’t notice, she’s happy, really happy, okay? And that’s the truth.

She didn’t know how long she’d been standing there, but she was surprised when someone suddenly grabbed hold of her hand. She was then pulled into a hug. She pulled away and looked up.

She was surprised to see the blond (she knew him, but couldn’t even remember where they’d met or if they’d ever spoken more than a few polite words and greetings to each other), of course, but she was more surprised by the fact that he wasn’t smiling at her, not in the way everyone else smiled just to be polite (those smiles meant nothing; they were so fake, it hurt).

*Notes:
- This is part 1 of a 5-part short story
- Part 2
- Smiling girl anime pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the smiling character in this story

Saying So Much With So Little Words

“How can you say so much using only a few words and sentences?”

“I don’t know. Don’t ask me. I’m still trying to achieve that. And, unfortunately failing. Miserably, in fact.”

“Oh. But, surely there must be a way.”

“There should be. I mean, if others can do it-”

“Can they?”

“Sure. Lots of them can. Easily, even.”

“Is that so? And they can still manage to put substance and depth and meaning to their words?”

“Yes, apparently. Maybe. Does it matter?"

“Of course it does. We’re trying to figure out how we can say so much with so little, remember?”

“Right, right. Have we said enough yet?”

“Don’t ask me.”

“Well, maybe this is enough?”

“Is it? I don’t know. Doesn’t feel like it is.”

“Come on. It’s enough. Why? Are you worried? Troubled? What is it?”

“It’s just that, it seems like nothing was said at all.”

“Pfft. Come now, lots of things have been said. And, look, we even had an entire conversation. Fun, no?”

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

theresa kalesa (&organic_love):
It's fun to read! I wish to make this conversation only post.

Freya (in reply to theresa):
Thanks. I've been experimenting with conversation or dialogue-only posts in some of my articles. Since no one is being named and no action is being described, it would be important to make sure that each character has their own voice and that they can easily be distinguished from whoever they're talking to so you can tell who's saying what and when.

*Notes:
- Two people walking and talking art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the two people in the story who are also talking

What We Sometimes Want And What We Always Need

Sometimes, you just want to scream and shout, pour out your feelings of sadness and pain and melancholy to a world that refuses to listen to you.

Sometimes, you just want to cry, shed tears of sorrow as you stand alone in the middle of an open field and as you realize that you’re alone, alone, always alone, with only the moon and the stars for company.

Sometimes, you can’t help but feel so much anger, hatred, rage and frustration as nothing seems to go right and everything you do seems to fail.

Sometimes, you just want to be held, to cry in someone’s arms and feel reassured and comforted and reminded that you are loved and not alone and that there is someone that does care.

Sometimes, you just want to hear the words that “it will be all right”. Sometimes, you just want someone to listen to you, to know that your words don’t fall on deaf ears. Sometimes, you just want someone to smile at you and remind you that you haven’t been forgotten.

Sometimes, you feel so afraid and scared that you just want to close your eyes and will the darkness and the despair away. Sometimes, you just want to close your eyes and sleep, wishing that your dreams will always be beautiful and that you didn’t have to live this nightmare.

Sometimes, no, always, always, you just want to be happy. And, after all, isn’t that what really matters? Isn't that what everyone wants and needs?

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

&julieanne:
Wow, that is powerful. I hope that you've never felt that depth and extent of despair yourself? I know that some people do... luckily I never have, but your writing made me "feel" and empathise with this state.

Freya (in reply to &julieanne):
Thank you. Yeah, there are some people who feel like this sometimes due to a number of reasons and, maybe some just can't help but feel such despair and sorrow due to whatever they may be experiencing.

Freya (in reply to &Rosbill):
It seems that people can experience feelings like this sometimes such as feeling sad or melancholy for a number of different reasons. And, of course, it's also likely that people will always want to experience feelings of happiness all the time.

theresa kalesa (&organic_love):
I've heard it said, "Sometimes, it's okay not to be okay."
And I absolutely love your musing. This is beautiful. :D

Freya (in reply to theresa):
Thank you :). I've heard that saying too and I think it has some truth to it. Sometimes, people can just feel depressed or sad and unhappy and frustrated and other such emotions. But, of course, they'd want to feel happy and they'd want to be happy. Sometimes, it's unfortunately not that easy though.

*Notes:
- Crying anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the depressed and sad character in the story

Who Wants A War?

Also known as, "I will not lose to you," "I will not back down," "What is the Spades King planning?" and "I just don't want my people to get hurt".

Previously, in this series, West told East that the Superhero had the right to interfere while East said that was not the case at all. It looks like neither Superhero is willing to back down and concede that the other is right.

East insists that West should not interfere because the issue does not concern the latter. But West is adamant that the issue does have something to do with the western Superhero and, as such, West had every right to interfere.

Now, East wishes to protest against West’s words in the last post, but West raises a hand to stop the eastern Superhero from doing so.

“No,” West says, “Look, East, come on, just wait and listen. The Clubs and Hearts Kingdoms are on the western side of The World, my side, and they're involved too. The other kingdoms near the Visible Demarcation Line are involved too.

“These guys are all worried about the Spades King and what he might do to them. These rulers are just concerned and worried for the safety of their people, our Citizens. They're all scared that there might be a war. They don’t know what the Spades King is planning and they're all wary and afraid. You get that East, don’t ya?”

*Notes:
- This is part 76 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 75
- Image is a Fate/Stay Night mousepad from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the ongoing conflict between the Superheroes and the Spades, Diamonds, Clubs and Hearts Kingdoms

Invisible And Alone In This Crowd

She was smiling, but it didn’t reach her eyes. The smile looked brittle and fake and half-frozen on her face. But no one noticed. No one ever would. She was alone and this was fact.

She was walking amidst a crowd of people. There were so many of them and they all had at least one companion and friend with them. These people were laughing joyously, happily, as if they didn’t have any problems, as if there wasn’t anything wrong.

Her smile quivered and faltered as she watched them, observing their wild gestures and the sparkle in their eyes and the happiness just radiating from them. And, suddenly, her eyes were stinging and it was rather hard to see where she was going.

But what did it matter anyway? It wasn’t like she knew where she wanted to go. She didn’t know any of these people, but it still hurt. How was it possible to feel so invisible and alone even while she was standing in a crowd of people?

Everyone was lost in their little world and no one paid the slightest bit of attention to her. They missed the way her smile turned to a miserable frown and the way her eyes filled with tears.

Unable to take it anymore, she ran, ran as fast as she could though she knew not where she was going. Perhaps it didn’t really matter where she was headed as long as her destination would lead her to the happiness that she was forever seeking.

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

Janet (&jabo):
This wrenches at the heart - you made me feel this poor girl's despair.

Freya (in reply to Janet):
Thank you :). That was what I was aiming for. I'm glad I was able to convey the feelings of the character with the words and descriptions.

*Notes:
- Sad, depressed, alone, crying girl poster is from Amazon.com

If You Wish On A Star, Will It Work?

You stare up at the dark night sky with eyes that have suffered far too much. As you lie there, alone, on the cold hard ground, you can’t help but wish on the sparkling and twinkling stars that you see. They’re so bright and beautiful and far away and unattainable, just like your dreams.

You wish it weren’t so, but it is, unfortunately. You wish that someone would show up and offer you a hand. You wish that someone would care enough to listen to you. You wish that someone would hear your voice and understand you.

You wish that you can just cry out and scream all of your grievances and frustrations to the world. You wish that someone would hold you and hug you and comfort you. You wish that it wasn’t so cold and lonely and dark. You wish you weren’t so miserable. You wish you could be happy. You have a million and one wishes.

And, as you look at all of the stars littering the sky, you frantically try to wish for all the things that you want and need. But wishes are just wishes, aren’t they? Do they really mean anything?

You wait and wait and wait some more. Yet nothing happens. Nothing changes. Things remain the same, as always. You’re still here, still alone, still unhappy.

Oh, wait, there is something that changes. Your eyes- they grow darker and colder and the light in them slowly fades away into nothingness until they are nothing but soulless orbs that hold nothing but despair.

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

&Brilliant:
Wishing upon a star involves a miracle. It depends on how much you put faith in it.

Freya (in reply to &Brilliant):
Guess that's another way of looking at it. Another might be that it's all just mere luck and chance. Or maybe that it has nothing to do with anything at all and whether one wishes on a star or not has absolutely no consequence to any event that might or might not transpire. Perhaps it might also depend on what one believes in. Maybe even the kind of wish would have an effect as to whether or not it will come true such as how plausible or impossible the wish is to fulfill.

theresa kalesa (&organic_love):
No! Please no! If you must stop wishing but never cease praying. Enlighten those eyes with the fire of hope. :)

Freya (in reply to theresa):
:). Sometimes, it doesn't seem to be that easy though. Sometimes, life is just so much of a struggle and everything can feel so dreary and gloomy and dark that even wishing does nothing. And, sometimes, you might feel so tired and weary of it all that it seems like hope is useless and you might just feel like giving up because of all the sadness and the pain you have to endure and experience.

*Notes:
- Image is a wall scroll poster of Mirai Kuriyama from the anime Kyoukai no Kanata (Beyond the Boundary) from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the character in the story looking up at the stars

Don’t Want To Be Invisible Anymore

“I’m here. I exist. I’m alive. I’m not invisible. Can’t you see me? Can’t you hear me?” she cries out.

But no one is paying attention to her. They’re all busy living their perfect, happy lives. They don’t see anything else and they don’t care about anyone else.

She walks around, her smile shaky and wavering, as she searches for someone who could see her, who would listen to her, who would speak to her, who would reassure her that, yes, she was not invisible. She found no one that fit that description.

She smiled at pretty much everyone she came across, but they either ignore her, don’t see her or are just too caught up in their own world to bother with someone they don’t even know.

Her smile was slowly turning into a frown and her eyes became blurry. As tears fell down her face (she couldn’t have stopped it even if she tried), she thinks to herself, what was so wrong with what she wanted? She just didn’t want to be invisible anymore. She just wanted to be seen and heard and noticed. Is that so bad?

The winds blew, ruffling her hair and clothes, but she ignored this in favor of looking up at the dark, dark night sky. No light greeted her, only endless darkness and blackness. And she was lost in its swirling depths, feeling empty and cold and frozen and more alone and invisible than ever.

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

donna (&littlefoot1026):
The most beautiful moment is when someone sees you while you are invisible.

Freya (in reply to donna):
Yes, it would be really nice if someone who is invisible and largely ignored and overlooked can be noticed by other people, if there are those who can see the fake smiles in other people and notice that someone is feeling down and sad or that someone feels alone.

But it's unfortunate that this doesn't always happen and there are many who still remain invisible and very lonely as people around them ignore them and overlook them and don't seem to see how hurt they feel or how they wish they weren't invisible anymore.

*Notes:
- Image is a screenshot from the Hell Girl anime series from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the lonely and depressed character in the story

Get Out Of My Side Of The World

Also known as, "If I need your help, I'll ask" and "My side, my rules, my way, so don't interfere".

Previously, in this series, we listened to East’s explanation about exactly why West should not interfere on any issues or problems plaguing the eastern kingdoms of The World.

Simply put, those kingdoms are not under West’s jurisdiction, and, therefore, West should not be helping or interfering unless asked to do so by East.

Do you think West gets all that? Well, that’s definitely debatable since, the whole time East was talking and explaining, West looked pretty pissed off like the western Superhero wanted to interrupt and scream angrily at East.

Now, West takes a deep breath and attempts to calm down. Clearly, West is still all for a peaceful discussion and really doesn’t want to blow up at East and fight.

“Look, East,” West says, taking another deep breath. “And, uff, don’t call me 'amber'. I mean, I’m part of this too, okay? My side of The World is totally part of this too, like, seriously, it is.”

*Notes:
- This is part 75 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 74
- Image is Amber Dragon, Dusk from the Cardfight!! Vanguard TCG card game from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the 'Amber' nickname that East calls West

Reason Why It Hurts To Feel So Invisible

Hey, hello. Hi there. What’s up? How are you? Oh, hey, guess what? Want to know something interesting? You know, I-

He sighed and stopped speaking. What was the use? He was invisible. No one noticed him. He was right there, standing amongst the crowd of people, but not a single person noticed him.

He tried talking to them, befriending them, but it was no use because no one paid attention to him. They were all so busy with their lives; they were too selfish to care about other people.

He bit his lip and tried not to cry. He looked around him. Everyone was happy, smiling, laughing and no one noticed him or how hurt he was and how invisible he felt.

Hey, hey – he tried again – look at me. I’m right here. Please, I exist too, you know? I’m standing right here. At least, hear me out. I just want my voice to be heard.

I just want someone to listen to what I have to say. Am I that insignificant? Why can’t you see me? I’m alive. I exist. I’m here.

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

Analyn (&dysenteryanalyn):
This is another depressing story. I wonder how you come up with these stories.

Freya (in reply to Analyn):
I’m not really sure. I get ideas and I just write it down. It might also have something to do with what people might be feeling or thinking about or what they’ve seen, etc.

Blanka Đulabić (&B4RBii3):
It hurts, because we all want to be seen but, also, to stay alone, a little bit, and sometimes, it’s really difficult to find the balance.

Freya (in reply to Blanka):
Yeah, I think everyone wants to be seen and noticed. Who wants to be invisible, right? Perhaps, people are just looking for a place where they can feel that they belong, where they won’t feel so alone and unwanted and unloved.

A little solitude or quiet time is okay once in a while, but who wants to be alone all the time? There should be some balance between being alone and not being alone.

*Notes:
- Sad boy anime art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the lonely and depressed character in the story

Don't You Remember How Things Work In The World?

Also known as, "Here's a reminder, in case you forgot" and "Have you forgotten how things work around here?"

In the last episode of this series, West was interrupted by East before the former could protest upon hearing the eastern Superhero’s suggestion of making sure that the Clubs, Hearts and the other rulers of the kingdoms near the Visible Demarcation Line stop interfering and just let the Diamonds rulers and the Spades King deal with the issue of Fantasia’s ownership by themselves.

Let’s find out what East wants to say.

“Look, Amber,” East says, “Remember that both the Spades and the Diamonds Kingdom are on my side of The World, the eastern side. Any issue or problem that goes on in that part of The World should be left to me to take care of since it is on my side.”

East made sure to put emphasis on ‘my’ to make doubly sure that West would understand. “If you are having any issues in any of your western kingdoms, I also would not interfere unless you ask for my help because those kingdoms are on your side of The World.

"I hope you will also give me the same consideration, Amber. This is part of the rules, as you well know. But I am reminding you, in case you forgot.”

*Notes:
- This is part 74 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 73
- Image is Amber Dragon, Dusk from the Cardfight!! Vanguard TCG card game from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the 'Amber' nickname that East calls West

I'm Sorry And Please Don’t Lose Hope

I can see it. I can feel it. You’re all suffering. You’re all hurt. It hurt so much, I know. And I’m so sorry because you had nothing to do with this. You’re innocent, you did nothing wrong and yet you’re made to pay for the sins and mistakes of those who are too selfish and self-centered.

You’re being blamed for crimes you didn’t commit. It seems everything that goes wrong in this world is your fault (why, yes, of course, it’s your fault. Who else can we blame for the darkness and the shadows and the illusions that destroy people and threaten to bring about another world war?).

Why is it that the innocent are the ones who have to suffer? They did nothing wrong and yet they have to face the consequences. Everyone is ganging up on you and I’m sorry, but please don’t lose hope.

You may not know it, but there are people who are rooting for you, who wish only for your happiness and for you all to be free from the chains that bind you. Stay united and don’t let these cruel, evil people with their dark, dark abilities get to you. If you keep working together, surely, you can save the world from destruction.

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

Freya (in reply to &maromory):
Yes, it’s good to work together instead of having to do everything yourself. Sometimes, people just need all the help they can get. Sometimes, they can’t do everything by themselves. Sometimes, they just need someone to be there for them. And the world would be a better place with less wars and fighting and violence if everyone would just get along and stop fighting.

*Notes:
- Crying anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the apologizing narrator of the story

Can't We Let Spades And Diamonds Handle Fantasia?

Also known as, "Why can't we just let the Spades and Diamonds Kingdoms handle the Fantasia issue without our interference?"

When we last left the 2 Superheroes, East just asked West if the latter would agree to settling the ownership of Fantasia in a peaceful and diplomatic way without starting a war over the issue.

What will West say to that? Do you think West will agree? Or is West going to protest? Let’s find out.

West considers East’s words for a moment before nodding. “Yeah,” West agrees. “I do want things to be resolved peacefully. I totally don’t want a war either, East.”

East smiles at that and is pleased to see West return the smile. “That is good to hear, Amber. Then you will let the Diamonds rulers and the Spades King take care of this matter by themselves and not let the Clubs and Hearts and the other rulers of the kingdoms near the Visible Demarcation Line interfere with this issue?”

West frowns upon hearing that. “Wait, what? But-” West started to say, but East was quick to interrupt and interject.

*Notes:
- This is part 73 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 72
- Image is Amber Dragon, Dusk from the Cardfight!! Vanguard TCG card game from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the 'Amber' nickname that East calls West

What Do You Say To Someone Who Is Sad?

“Hey, what in the world are you doing? Why are all these books scattered everywhere? You’re making a big mess. This had better be for a very good reason. And you’d better be cleaning all this up. What are you looking for anyway?”

“If you’re just gonna nag at me, then don’t bother. Just go away. I’m busy, okay?”

“Busy with what? Again, what are you doing?”

“What’s it look like? I’m reading, duh.”

“Oh for the love of- what are you reading then? What are these books about anyway? Wait, what is this? What exactly are you trying to find? What’s the matter anyway?”

“Well, one of my friends is feeling all sad and depressed and miserable about the stuff going on in her life, and, well, ya know, I wanted to cheer her up, make her feel better, but I don’t know what to say.”

“So, you thought you’d go to the library and go through all the books here in search of the answer to your question? Do you really think you’ll find the answers in a book?”

“I dunno. Maybe. I mean, I tried to search the Internet first, but I didn’t get no satisfactory answer at all. So, I thought I’d try books this time.”

“Look, do you really think you need to find the answers to this? You already know. There’s no need to look.”

“What do you mean? How should I know? I don’t know anything. What am I supposed to say to her?”

“The truth. Just don’t lie to her. Be sincere. Say what you want to say.”

“You’re kidding, right? Is it really that easy? Is that really all there is to it?”

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

Delfin4 (&delfin4):
Sometimes, silence is the best way to facing someone is sad... sometimes... :)

Freya (in reply to Delfin4):
Yeah, sometimes, one does not have to say anything to a person who is sad. One just needs to be there for that person. One just needs to show that person that he or she is not alone and that one is always there for her.

Sometimes, one just has to stand by your side and reassure you and show you that there's someone there for you who will try to help you and cheer you up and just be there for you whenever you're feeling sad and depressed.

Donna (&littlefoot1026):
A listening ear is all there should be... you can only talk when you are asked for advice.. ;o)

Freya (in reply to Donna):
Yeah, sometimes, a person might need someone to talk to. Sometimes, a person just wants to talk about his or her problems or whatever might be bothering him or her or making him or her sad and they don't want to be judged or mocked or made fun of; all they want is someone who will listen to them and not lie to them or say insincere things to them.

Sometimes, that's really all they want and they wouldn't want advice or that person trying to fix things, etc. But, there are times when they might ask for advice.

*Notes:
- Sad anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com

Can We Please Not Start A War Over This?

Also known as, "Let’s leave this issue to the ones who are really involved" and "Just leave the Fantasia issue to the Spades and Diamonds Kingdom."

Sick of East’s monologue? Eh, that’s okay. If you are, you’ll be pleased to know it’s finally done. Let’s get back to the conversation between the 2 Superheroes.

“Is it really?” West shot back, in response to East’s words saying that the western Superhero was being absurd (remember that part?). “And don’t call me 'azure'.”

West’s fists clenched, clearly starting to get really angry though visibly trying to remain calm and in control. West’s lip is bitten as if in refusal to say something that would just cause them to fight.

East is also not keen on starting a fight. “Look, all right, Amber, let’s just say that the issue of Fantasia’s ownership isn’t over yet. There is no need to start a war over this, Amber.”

“This issue is between the Spades Kingdom and the Diamonds Kingdom. They can resolve this peacefully, talk about what will happen with Fantasia and have the people of Fantasia be there to help make a decision. Is that acceptable to you, Amber?” East asks.

*Notes:
- This is part 72 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 71
- Image is Amber Dragon, Dusk from the Cardfight!! Vanguard TCG card game from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the 'Amber' nickname that East calls West

Is It Possible To Ever Run Out Of Things To Say?

“Hey, ‘sup? I’ve a question. Do ya think you’ll ever run out of stuff to write about or things to say?”

“Wait, what? Are you seriously asking me that question? For real?”

“Yup. Why? No answer?”

“Are you kidding me? You shouldn’t even have to ask me that.”

“Why not? What’s wrong with the question? I’m asking ‘cause I want to know the answer.”

“I should think the answer would be obvious.”

“Well, it’s not. At least, I’ve no idea what the answer is.”

“I can’t believe this.”

“Are you gonna answer or not?”

“All right, fine. The answer is a resounding and firm no.”

“Oh, really?”

“Yes, really. Why, don’t believe me?”

“Eh, it’s not that. I’m just surprised. You seem so sure of yourself.”

“That’s because I am. Very sure, in fact.”

“But what makes you say that?”

“Because, even now, I have so many words and ideas and thoughts swirling around in my mind. There are so many things that I want to say and write about. All I really need is time to be able to write and say all of these things.”

“Oh. I see.”

“Besides, people always have something to say, don’t they? People always want their voices to be heard, don’t you agree?”

“When you put it that way... I would like it if people listened to me more, if I didn’t have to feel so invisible all the time.”

“There, you see? Always, there is something to be said and written and these are special and unique and important in their own way.”

Here are some of the comments from this article, back when it used to be posted elsewhere:

Vixy (&vixy) said:
Sometimes I have problems thinking of something when I'm at the computer but never when I am not! So I am starting to take notes more often. I like writing here. I haven't as much as I should but it leads one to thinking about what one would say more.

Freya Yuki replied to Vixy:
I get ideas pretty much everywhere too. I take note of all the new ideas that I get so I can expand and elaborate on them later and turn them into various articles. I like writing here too though I don't have time to write the full 10 articles in a day so I usually just try to write at least once a day here.

*Notes:
- Girls on a picnic anime art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the two characters talking in the story

Wish You Could See The Truth As I See It

Also known as, "Why can't you see the truth?" and "It hurts, but it's okay, I understand."

No, East is not yet done with the inner monologue or thoughts. So let’s hop to it and hear what else the eastern Superhero has to say. East wishes that the people who listened to all these media could be more discerning and objective and unbiased.

If they could just go to Fantasia or anywhere in the Spades Kingdom or even just take the time to listen to the Spades media, then they could see the truth for themselves. East wishes to take West there so the latter could see as well.

Of course, East had been to Fantasia and to the Spades Kingdom and had spoken to various people over there. That’s how the Superhero knew the truth.

It saddened East that West would think the former hadn’t actually bothered to research and confirm the truth about what was really happening. It hurt to think that West would believe that East would just blindly believe whatever the Spades King says and that the Superhero wouldn’t bother to check and confirm the facts.

But East understood that the blame wasn’t entirely on West. It was only natural for West to feel for the western Citizens, to believe them and listen to them. East would have done the same for the eastern Citizens and would have also found it hard to be objective.

*Notes:
- This is part 71 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 70
- Howl's Moving Castle anime pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent parts of Fantasia and/or the Spades Kingdom

Do You Wonder Why You’re Still Here?

What are you doing here? Why are you here? Why do you care? Why does any of this matter to you? You exist, but no one can see you. You’re invisible, insignificant. You don’t matter at all.

If you disappear, who will care? If you don’t show up, if no one sees you for a while, who will notice? Who will ask where you are? Who will worry?

The truth is that you’re alone and that no one cares about you. So why are you still struggling? Why haven’t you given up yet? What’s your reason for continuing to be here? Do you sometimes think if perhaps the other side (the world, dreams, reality, nightmares – where do you belong?) is better?

Does it hurt? Do you wish the pain would stop? Do you want to scream? You can. But it won’t change anything. You can shout as loud as you want, but everyone will just ignore you.

*Notes:
- Sad boy anime art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the lonely and depressed character in the story

Is The Media Lying To You?

Also known as, "You're a lying liar who lies" and "Why is the media lying to you?"

Previously, in this series, we got some more information about Fantasia and the people there as well as East’s thoughts about the situation. Let’s see what else the eastern Superhero has to say about this.

Since the people of Fantasia said they liked being part of the Spades Kingdom and had no intentions of ever going back to the Diamonds Kingdom, the kingdoms near the Visible Demarcation Line (including Diamonds, Clubs and Hearts) kept releasing false information and saying that all this was mere lies and propaganda.

Because, apparently, the people of Fantasia are just being forced by the Spades King to say they like their new life or else they will get in trouble. And, apparently, Fantasia people don’t have a choice and must lie and say they love the Spades Kingdom otherwise they will be hurt.

The media and the people disseminating this information were being completely ridiculous, if you ask East.

East really has to wonder how anyone could believe such ridiculous and farfetched notions. Oh, what lies the media resorts to! How horrible, no?

*Notes:
- This is part 70 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 69
- Anime newspaper art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the false news and propaganda that the media are spreading against the Spades Kingdom

Feeling Really Depressed Right Now

"What’s wrong?"

"What, didn’t you read the title? I’m feeling really depressed right now."

"Why? And you shouldn’t be."

"Go away. What’s it to you? I just- I feel so pathetic, so invisible and insignificant, like I don’t mean anything to anyone, like if I disappear, no one would care. I’m nothing. Nothing. I don’t even have any friends."

"Hey, don’t cry. And, ‘course you have friends. I-"

"I said go away, didn’t I? You don’t count. How can you be considered a friend? You’re not even real."

He punched the crying, sad and depressed-looking reflection staring back at him. The mirror shattered into thousands of tiny pieces and some of the shards cut him.

But so what? What was that pain compared to what he was feeling right now? What was that pain compared to the loneliness and depression that was slowly eating at him? How much more pathetic could one get?

His only ‘friend’ was his own reflection and it hurt, it hurt so much, but no one cares. What can he do? He glanced down at the broken shards, pondering, contemplating.

"Broken," he murmurs, "just like me."

Comments (from back when this used to be posted elsewhere):

Analyn (&dysenteryanalyn):
Sadly, pain always demands to be felt. It’s better to let it out.

Freya (in reply to Analyn):
Yeah, sometimes, one has no choice but to feel pain, to be in pain even if they don’t want to be, even if it hurts and even if they wish they didn’t have to feel so much pain, loneliness and sadness.

Freya (in reply to &maromory):
Yeah, life is definitely full of so much troubles and pain. Sometimes, one might just feel like giving up because it hurts too much or because they feel so alone and depressed and that no one seems to care. One should be optimistic and hopeful though it’s not easy.

Patty Therre (&PattyT):
Life is tough. People have to be tough to stay alive. I know I have had many, many blows that made me feel like I couldn’t go on and would never smile or be happy again but here I am. I am still here, still trying to find all the good that life has to offer and trying not to let my problems take me down. You have to be pretty stubborn to keep going when all around you is dark but I believe it is worth it.

Freya (in reply to Patty):
Yeah, I completely agree with you that life can be really tough at times. Sometimes, everything just feels so depressing and the world can be so cruel and harsh and dreary that there seems to be nothing to be happy about.

I guess what’s important is to continue struggling and living and not to give up though that’s definitely easier said than done and there may be times when even the future seems bleak. But you just have to keep on believing and hoping no matter how much it hurts and no matter how much you just want to give up.

*Notes:
- Crying anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the depressed and sad character in the story

Listen To Truth, Not Lies

Also known as, "The media is lying to you," "Stop listening to all this propaganda," and "Ridiculous notions".

In the last episode of this series, West’s ridiculous words caused East to sigh and face-palm and stare at the former in utter disbelief. What is East thinking about now? What will happen now?

East sighs yet again, wishing that West would stop listening to all the western media out there. Everyone that was against the Spades King was really blaming everything on him, saying crazy things like that about Fantasia and disseminating all this information and propaganda.

Really, was it possible to threaten an entire group or city or town full of people and make them lie on whether or not they wanted to be with the Spades Kingdom?

In the first place, if the people of Fantasia didn’t like what the Spades Kingdom was doing to them, they could just rebel. What was stopping them from rebelling? After all, that was exactly what they did when they didn’t like how the Diamonds rulers were treating them.

Considering that they're now living peacefully in Fantasia and aren’t trying to rebel against the rule of the Spades Kingdom, doesn’t that mean they're being treated properly enough and are pretty satisfied or content with their new way of life?

*Notes:
- This is part 69 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 68
- Anime army art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the people of Fantasia rebelling if they didn't like the Spades Kingdom

So Tired - Take A Break From This Life, This World

“Oh man, there’s more? Seriously, when will this end? I’m sick of this. Argh, so frustrating.”

“What’s up with you now? Complaining again, I see. I’m not even surprised anymore.”

“You would too if you had to deal with this. Stop mocking me, okay? Just go away and leave me alone.”

“Oh, stop being so melodramatic. I’m not mocking you. What’s up with you anyway? What’s your problem now?”

“Work, work and more work. I’m so tired, you know. I just can’t take it anymore. I just want to sleep. Forever. When will this end?”

Sometimes, I just want to sleep forever and never wake up. Someone, help me, please

“Well, you do look weary and exhausted.”

“That’s ‘cause I am.”

“What are you going to do about it then?”

“I don’t know. Is there anything I can do about this?”

“Why don’t you just give it a break then? Rest. Sleep.”

“I would if I could. It’s not that easy though. There’s just so much to do, but so little time.”

“Don’t overwork yourself. You need to rest too. No wonder you’re exhausted if you keep trying to do everything all at once. Take it easy. It’s okay to rest once in a while.”

“Is it, really?”

“Sure, why not?”

“What about all this then? I still have so much to do.”

“Oh, don’t mind that for now. Here, I’ll help you, okay?”

“Really? Wow, thanks. You’re awesome. Did I say that yet? Because you are, you know?”

“Thank you. You’re not half bad yourself even if you drive me crazy a lot of the time.”

*Notes:
- Anime girl art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the character in the story who is feeling tired and needs help

How Do I Know You're Not Lying To Me?

Also known as, "How do I know what I'm seeing is real?" or "Believe what you see, but what if it's all lies?"

Previously, in this series, East readily and willingly offers to bring West to Fantasia and even to the Spades Kingdom so the latter could see what is really going on and find out for sure who is telling the truth and who is lying.

Well, you know what they say, ‘seeing is believing’. You never know who’s lying or not so it’s best to confirm this for yourself, no? Let’s see what West has to say about that:

West’s lip is bitten. It looks like the Superhero is actually considering the offer. Maybe. “Uh, they're not gonna lie, are they? I mean, they're not being threatened to say or to pretend that they like being part of the Spades Kingdom?

"Or, like, maybe they're just saying all these nice stuff so they won’t get in trouble or something,” West says, sounding concerned and unsure.

East stares at West in complete and utter disbelief before promptly face-palming and then sighing. “Azure, that is absurd,” East started to say.

*Notes:
- This is part 68 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 67
- Anime girl with azure hair and dress pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the 'Azure' nickname that East calls West

Looking For Someone Who Cares

“This is crazy. This is so utterly pointless. I don’t even know why I’m still doing this. I want to stop it already. Because it hurts so, so much. I just want to be free. Let me be free. Let me break away from these chains. Who wants to be controlled? I just want my voice to be heard, I just want someone who will understand. Why does it hurt so much?”

(sigh) “I’m sorry. I don’t have any of the answers that you seek.”

“Is that all you’re going to say?”

“What do you want me to say? Were you expecting me to comfort you? I’m sorry.”

(surprised, sad stare) “Oh, I see. Of course, you don’t care. Well. That’s fine. Perfectly fine. I don’t care either.” (a shake of the head, eyes tightly closed)

“Ah, please don’t cry. I-”

(angry, hurt glare) “Go away. I’m not crying. I don’t need you. Just leave me be.”

“No, wait. Look, I’m sorry. You misunderstand me. I only meant that- I mean, I do care. I just- I’m really horrible at this, at comforting people, I mean. I- I never know what to say, what to do. I’m sorry I’m useless. But, please, know that at least one person cares about you. I do care. I just don’t know how to express it.”

*Notes:
- Saber from Fate Stay/Night anime art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the two characters in the story - the one who is crying and the one who is trying to comfort them

Let's Take A Trip To Fantasia

Also known as, "Come with me to Fantasia, Azure".

Oh, hey, look, seems like the tension between East and West is rising. Again. Wonder what’s gonna happen now?

They're both trying not to snap at each other and to just stay calm, but it’s unclear how long that’s going to last.

Previously, West demanded to know if East thinks that the people from the kingdoms that were against the Spades King were actually lying when they explained the situation to the Superhero.

East quickly backtracked and shook his head. “No, Azure. I only meant that, perhaps, they might be mistaken-” East abruptly stopped and backtracked again.

“Ah, no, I mean, would it not be better if you confirm this yourself? If you go to Fantasia and speak to all the people there, then you will know the truth for sure, yes?”

West frowns. “I’m not welcome in Fantasia or in the Spades Kingdom.” The western Superhero eventually said after a moment of silence.

“I can take you there myself, Azure,” East offers.

*Notes:
- This is part 67 of The Adventures Of The World’s Superheroes series, a story told in several short posts
- Part 66
- Image is Beast Deity, Azure Dragon from the Cardfight!! Vanguard TCG card game from Amazon.com
- Pic was chosen to represent the 'Azure' nickname that East calls West

Does It Matter If You Talk Too Much?

“I swear, I can’t do it. I just can’t. I keep trying, but I can’t.”

“Can’t do what?”

“I mean, I try and I try and I try some more, but still, I just can’t do it. It’s like all my efforts amount to nothing, nothing at all.”

“What is it? Don’t panic, okay? Just calm down. Now, tell me what’s wrong?”

“I just can’t be brevity even if my life depended on it. It’s terrible and absolutely frustrating.”

“You can’t be what now? What did you just say?”

“Brevity. You know, what William Shakespeare said in that play of his. Hamlet, I think. He said and I quote, ‘Brevity is the soul of wit’.”

“Oh, that. You used that word incorrectly in your previous sentence.”

“I don’t care. Stop laughing. Ugh, forget how I used the word. You get my point, don’t you? I can’t be brief and concise and short no matter how much I try and try. I still end up saying a whole litany of things.”

“That’s because you like to ramble on and on and on.”

“Hey, you make it sound like such a bad thing. Oh no, it is bad, isn’t it? What do I do? Make it stop, please.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that. Not much anyway, not when you’re talking about important stuff. Just take it easy, okay? And stop worrying over crazy things like this. This shouldn’t even be an issue.”

“Well, yeah, but- I get the feeling no one wants to listen to me and I feel invisible and alone and-”

“Oh, honestly, I’m here, aren’t I? And I’m listening to you. I always listen even if you drive me crazy. What more do you want?”

*Notes:
- Two people walking and talking art print on canvas pic is from Amazon.com
- Pic is meant to represent the two people in the story who are also talking