I appreciate that Misa as a character is cognizant of the tension in her desires. An example is wanting to take care of Io versus not waning Io Io feel dependent. Another is wanting to stake a claim on Io against the people Misa feels jealousy towards versus wanting to give Io the space and confidence to figure out what Io values.
This isn't evidence that Misa in universe is going to handle this well, given that Misa has often thought about what she should do before doing the opposite. Still, the inclusion of these ideas can only be coming from a place of understanding on the part of the author. The author must have grappled with some of these very relatable issues in their own life, at least to some extent.
A lot of times with BDSM stories we either get a very sanitized, best case version or else the story leans into unhealthy dynamics in an unrealistic way. Both of these can make for a valuable and enjoyable story, but with this one we are getting a more nuanced take. People come to their relationships, both BDSM and otherwise, with their traumas, their admirable qualities, and their harmful impulses, all at the same time. Then they try their best to proceed, making many mistakes in the process. That's both true to life and one of the most engaging parts of this story.
last edited at Jun 1, 2025 6:58PM