The horrifying implications of Meat Sweats powers.
Rupert (mainly known as meat sweats) is possibly one of my favourite side-villains within Rottmnt as of this moment. Down his writing and animation, the Gordon Ramsey parody is an absolute delight to watch.
Something about his mannerisms is beyond fascinating to me. He's a double threat, both cunning and robust. I could go on about for hours about this overgrown porky pig characteristic and how he is so much more than the very thing he is parodying.
But I'll spare you that mercy and focus on ONE aspect of his character.
His mutant powers. (read more down below)
In 'Nothing but Truffle' we get a lot of insight into how his abilities function.
Using the strange tendrils that make up his arm and hands, he can latch onto his prey and suck out their 'essences'.
Temporarily possessing his victim's powers while his victim is either immobilized or die after the process (implied). The key word here is "Temporarily"
During the episode, after Mikey is betrayed by the British Meatbag we get this little exchange between the two.
"B-but- i thought you were nice now?"
"Oh. that wore off hours ago...and by the way, you play lousy mandoline"
This shows us, that once he absorbs his victim's powers- throughout the course of an entire day- they only last for a short period.
This shows us, that his mutant form can quickly burn off "essences".
why is this horrifying? I'll get into it soon enough, sit tightly.
Let's us examine what exactly he IS absorbing.
We see that whenever Rupert is absorbing something- it is always GREEN and you what else is green? Empyrean. the source of yokai power, the ingredient used to create mutants.
His mutant form requires Empyrean.
What do I mean by "require"? well then. We established that Rupert can quickly burn off Empyrean after absorbing it.
now i'd like to point out something to you.
Notice how Rupert is often described as "cannibalistic" or "vampiric" by other characters, merch and even concept artwork.
Notice how often he hunts, he jumps at any opportunity to catch any prey. See how within the show, there are many instances of him having cages upon cages of mutant/yokai saved for special occasions.
Almost like, he NEEDS a constant onslaught of Empyrean not because he enjoys the power that comes with it but rather, out of necessity. It is VERY possible that his Mutant form needs it to survive. Normal food won't simply cut it, He hungers for yokai and mutants alike.
So is that it? seems pretty simple enough, right? AHAHAHAHAHA NO MY DEAR READER, WE ARE NOT DONE YET! you are stuck here with me. I had a shocking revelation, one that seemed rather far-fetch but please bear with me.
Rupert has minimal control of his powers.
When the metal gauntlets come off, Rupert cannot control what his tendrils can absorb.
An example of this is featured is once again, in "Nothing but Truffle".
The second Mikey pulled Rupert's arm to the weretree, the tendrils began draining it upon contact- against Rupert's will. He can't stop it.
This is just one of the many instances of it.
We know that Rupert can form "claws" with his tendrils based on this one Ep but this is the only time it happens.
Usually, they are untangled instead of interconnected
While this could just be an animation inconsistency- please just. indulge me for a moment.
Rupert is known as most dangerous mutant according to Tmnt and there's good reason for this.
Despite Ruperts disadvantages, he is capable of working AROUND them. He is dangerous not because of his mutant abilities but for his intelligence. we the viewer don't suspect it because He is capable of making split-second decisions within a fight.
Rupert is competent in many others ways that we overlook and mislead into thinking he's in full control of his powers.
(Idk if he's autistic but he'd be a master at masking lol)
So NOW why is this horrifying?
Keep in mind.
Rupert was a human- a shitty one but still human regardless.
His mutation wasn't by choice. His cannibalism wasn't a choice.
Imagine, you are at the height of your career and in the middle of your show- in front of an entire audience- you suddenly feel a pinch.
everything is painful. Your body contorts into a horrific pigish amalgamation in a matter of minutes. The world has its eyes on you. people are watching. All you see is RED.
You've become a monster.
Once the red is gone. All that is left is the hunger.
You are reduced to nothing more than a creature lurking within the shadows. A wall is put between you and the remaining semblance of your old life. Everything you work for, Gone. Left to rot away.
No matter how many scraps you pull out of NYC's trash piles.
You are still hungry. This disgusting form of yours demands more. The only thing you can do to survive. is give in. indulge.
you didn't just become a monster. you ARE the monster.
Whether or not Rupert was deserving of this faith is up in the air.
We know that he's always been an Asshole. (both Mikey and himself go on to confirm this)
This isn't meant to suddenly paint Rupert in a sympathetic light nor be an attempt to "redeem" his actions. Far from it.
This is meant to further insight into him as a villain and why he acts the way he does.
Rupert still values his humanity. Rupert resorts to extreme measures to ensure his own comfortability and his legacy (i.e his restaurant)
but thats a topic for another day.
To finally conclude this tangent.
While Rupert is scummy sod, the situation he's forced into is unsettling when you sit down and think about it.
If anything. he might have become a bigger asshole due to his mutation.
(now excuse me- im going step inside this man's food truck and kiss him)
The original traitor. The first defender of earth.
You may be able to read more about him Below. (side note: some things in my previous posts may be reconned)
(edit: sorry about any of the spelling and grammar errors)
Assigned Name: Utrom
Age: Uknown
Gender: Unknown (Queergender)
sexuality: Pansexual (poly)
Current occupation: Part-time nature conservationist, full-time tourist. (formerly) Rebel leader and Kraang surveillance scout
personality summary: Utrom is a jovial charismatic bundle of love, who cares deeply for the world around him and is burdened by his past. He continues to learn and grow for centuries, wishing to right his wrongdoings. He is a strict pacifist, however, Utrom is still capable of intimidating others when needed. Think of him as the fun laidback uncle of Earth! (for the most part)
Backstory!
Pre-Rebellion:
Utrom started out as any other Kraang, born on planet primordial and raised to be a soldier for their glorious empire. He was by no means, a cut above the rest. Utrom was just another nameless soldier- another cog in the machine
He (just like any other member of his species) took pride in what he was. Despite his big hulking figure, Utrom served as a surveillance scout for the empire. His occupation was to scout out planets prior to the oncoming conquest. He would study various things like the enemies' ecosystem, culture and technological advancements. Utrom had a deeper fascination- perhaps, even a hidden admiration for other lifeforms but not to the extent where he’d feel remorse for aiding in their complete genocide.
Unlike most Kraang, Utrom would acknowledge to some degree his enemies were capable of outwitting them- though he knew no creature could ever overpower the might of kraang, Utrom also knew blindly underestimating their prey would have consequences.
This was not a common ideal, even for scouts like him.
His comrade. The one assigned to aid him on all his missions. Kraang2. Had a completely different set of ideals, ones that were more aligned with the common kraang soldier. They were polar opposites in many ways BUT- their differences were what forged their strong bond.
Utrom had even developed deep romantic feelings towards Krang2 but due to the culture they live in. Recognising or understanding such complicated emotions was nearly impossible. From his perspective, Kraang2 was his comrade and nothing more.
Sure, he liked the way She’d slaughter their foes or how she’d recklessly jump into battle without a thought or- even the quiet moments where they talked about climbing the ranks together but, She was just a comrade. Nothing more.
Utrom never knew why but Kraang1 (2’s elder brother) did not trusted him. He didn’t understand what warranted such specific hostility directed his way. Utrom never made the connection that his close friendship with 2 may have been the root of it. Kraang1 never outwardly showed his concern for his younger siblings, especially in front of others. Kraang1 was also a higher-ranking member of the empire, he is considered a prodigy to General Chre’ll.
He would abuse his authority over Utrom, singling him out from other soldiers for petty reasons.
To describe dynamic in the simplest of terms: they are like petty coworkers. a lot of their interactions would range from passive aggression to straight-up hostility or (more commonly) strained professionalism.
Utrom, being a lower rank could not bite back- otherwise, he'd be met with severe punishment. The abuse he undergo was something normalised within their society. Utrom would quietly question The kraang as a whole, however, his doubts would be buried. His head 6ft deep under the propaganda he was raised upon.
He was a soldier, meant to aid the empire's glorious crusade. To keep the natural order of things. the strong will devour the weak.
Utrom's betrayal/rebellion:
Names are important things within their culture. They are symbols that are achieved, rather than a title given upon birth.
Typically, a kraang would earn their Name after ascending the ranks and becoming a general however, a name can be earned through other means...more importantly, earning a name isn't always a good thing within the kraang.
Planet Earth was meant to be Kraang1's first conquest. Think of it as a crowning, one where Kraang1 would assert himself in the empire as "General Prime" (after a successful invasion.)
So what exactly happened?
Utrom, someone who was never seen far from kraang2's side- working in tandem- Was tasked with scouting out earth, alone. He was no position to question Kraang1's decision as per usual and thus, remained silent.
Once Utrom arrived on Earth (landing in Japan during the Heian period.) He went through the usual motions, Examining and collecting data. However, during this time- without his beloved comrade to distract him, his doubts began to take hold.
It was then he met a Sōhei, one who was unafraid of Utrom. Normally, when an enemy discovers him- Utrom was quick to kill but.. this time, he didn't.
the Sōhei fascinated him. They had simply struck up a conversation and even in that moment, they had hit a personal cord with Utrom. With words alone, he began to wonder- his doubts beginning to unearth.
So he did something he'd never thought he'd do.
Utrom began to befriend the enemy. He learned many things with the Sōhei and eventually, other humans too. A whole new world of opportunity had opened up to him, one that he'd never considered if he was with the kraang.
All of this was done under the Kraang's (metaphorical) nose.
Utrom saw how imperfect the empire was, thanks to the help of his human friends. Yet, he wanted others to see it too. Utrom wanted his fellow comrades to know, that there was more to life then blood and conquest.
He began to orchestrate an entire rebellion, gathering kraang from lower ranks to rise up and defend Earth. Kraang2 was the first to know about this but opposed the idea. Yet she remained silent, thinking that Utrom would come back to his "senses" (which he never did.)
This rebellion was how Utrom earned his name. Once word got out about a traitorous scout, he was 'branded' and named Utrom.
However, this act would lead more kraang to aid Utrom. He was a normal loyal soldier like they were, if he had the courage to fight authority then perhaps they could too?
This lead to a full on Battle on earth. The rebels and humans were getting decimated, despite everything- they were losing to the kraang.
Til the very last second, the human friends pulled out a piece of precious kraang tech. One built by a rebel and meant to seal in the kraang....and perhaps the rebels too.
Utrom knew this and allowed this, knowing that he too may be sealed as well.
Once the Key was unleashed, the battle was over in an instance.
Utrom somehow managed to avoid being sealed into the prison dimensions along with only a small handful of rebels left. The rest were sucked into the prison dimension where they'll no doubt, meet their demise.
This... Affected utrom in many ways he never thought it would. Unsure what to do with himself. He gifted the Key to one of his human friends.
The lost of kraang2 cut him deeply... Now stranded on earth, all he can do is heal and live a new life.
Post-betrayal
Utrom spent his first century on earth within Japan, living closely with the Sōhei he trusted so dearly. He had vowed to become a pacifist after the war, which was a tough journey for Utrom.
He had lived his whole life as a soldier. War was the only thing he knew but with help from his Human friends. Utrom managed.
Eventually, one by one his friends would pass on. Their lives were so much shorter than his.
He than decided too travel across earth. learning from humans without involving themselves in their conflict. Utrom would spend many centuries attempting to conserve the planet's ecosystem, socialising with humans and more importantly, trying to forget kraang2
Fast forward to present day
Utrom received word from the E.p.f that there was a failed invasion within NYC and that his presence is required. He was horrified to know, that he'd be helping with Kraang2 interrogation.
He did not work for them, serving more so as a "kraang consultant" due to his former role as a rebel leader. Yet, given that this was his old comrade, he felted the need to stay.
Now Utrom is trying hard to undo the damage that she and her brothers have caused.
Triva:
Utrom voiceclaim is Keith david (x)
Utrom likes telling stories about his time on earth. His antics with vary but all of them bizarre in their own special way. Utrom is essentially one big history book. A living artifact.
Utrom begins to keep an eye on those involved in NYC's invasion. Whether they be good or bad.
He struggles with being a pacifist, even til this very day. He often worries about snapping at someone since he's constantly aware of his strength.
Utrom great with dealing other peoples emotions however, closes himself off from his own feelings. He feels responsible for everything that had happen and is trying hard to 'fix' everything.
He still retains strong romantic feelings towards kraang2 and will continue to visit her once The E.p.f efforts in finding her brothers prove to be fruitless. (biggest simp in all the galaxy)
Hello Rottmnt Lovers (Mainly Meatsweats lovers) do I have a treat for you! I am writing my very first public fanfiction!! It’s an enemies to friends to lovers Meatsweats x reader! Link is below, I hope to make a few other fanfictions later so check me out!!
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the
Organization for Transformative Works
A common misconception spread around regarding the episode "Cloak & Swaggart" is that Rupert is the theft when in actuality-
he's isn't. While Rupert is definitely not above such petty actions like thievery. In this case, he's very much innocent.
-OKAY OKAY PUT YOUR TOMATEOS DOWN! I KNOW HE'S BRITISH! Stop booing at me! BUT YOUR HONOUR!
My client is innocent of this specific instance.
(Read more below)
In "Cloak and Swaggart" our favourite Girlboss duo go out partying after Splinter and his boys are off "camping".
They are having the time of their lives, simply gals being pals.Yet something disastrous happens on girl's night leading to being the driving force of today's misadventure.
Sunita's Brooch is stolen by a mysterious assailant.
We know the thief of identity is unknown by judging the shape of their hand.
One could argue that this was an animation decision made by the team to make the twist a little more fun but this makes no sense from a narrative standpoint.
Mr Loose Lips can't be the thief because
A) look at his hands
B) He isn't a Yokai or a mutant- he's never seen dawning a brooch indicating he may have an alternative form.
Rupert can't be the thief because The Pigman has an alibi. This alibi is confirmed by Mr loose lips himself.
"Look kid, my clients suspect a certain level of discretion. Yea' think I'm just gonna tell yea that the brooch was bought by some big guy with a thick neck and an upturned nose an' paper hat, on his way to channel 6 ln a late-model charcoal grey stretch limousine?"
If Rupert was the theft, then why would he bother showing up to Mr loose lips in the first place? it makes no sense.
Even if we were to entertain the idea that this was a commission's work- it still wouldn't make sense.
Rupert Swaggert in this regard, is innocent. He had no clue that the brooch belonged to someone else upon buying it. Keep in mind, that the British bastard had never met April or Suntia before this.
This makes the Episode even MORE funnier when you look through his lenses.
He can return to his old career which he suddenly lost due to his mutation. He finally found the means to take back his old life but within ONE DAY- Rupert was harassed by two teenagers, whom he had never met before EVER in his life. (then nearly got eaten by some yanks)
From his perspective: He got robbed by some teens- for no reason
Before I close this off.
I worry that some folks take away from the post is me shifting the blame onto April and Suntia which... no, I'm not. They're well within their right to take back a family heirloom which belongs to Sunita.
besides They're TEENAGERS.
Do you think April gonna go over to a known dangerous mutant and be like "Ermm, can we have that brooch back? " OF COURSE NOT. don't be insane. These girls deserve a crown.
What I'm doing is pointing out the hilarity of this scenario.
We are all familiar with who Rupert is. He's an oversized porky jackass that has no problem committing extreme acts for his own benefit.
We are SO used to his shittiness that putting "stealing from teenage girls" on his list of crimes wouldn't be out of the question.
The only thing is... he didn't commit that here.
Dude tried to get his old job back only to have some teenager mess with his life again. he never met them and to his knowledge, the Brooch was something he purchased.
So the Verdict?
Rupert is innocent in regards to Suntia's stolen brooch
As for everything else? all his other crimes?
Guilty. Put this man away your honour.
Chosen Name: Faolán [last name redacted] (pronunciation: fway-lawn)
Alias: "Brewster", "B.S", "BrewsterWorks"
Age bracket: middle-aged
Gender: (trans)Male
sexuality: unknown/questioning (likely on the Ace spectrum)
Occupation: Professional Painter, Art Critic & Ghostwriter
personality summary: Foalán is a secretive hermit that is passionate about Art. He's highly critical regarding most things and isn't exactly the most trusting when it comes to people. Foalán likes his privacy, preferring to keep as much anonymity as possible in most situations. While he's a heavily guarded person, Foalán can be a mischievous playful lil' fella- masking his distrust for others and attempting to mirror people's energy. He tends to miss social cues, so his attempts are- err... "A- for effort"
Backstory!
Yokai live in all corners of the world, sometimes going by different terms depending on the country, varying cultures, etc... Just like... You know- people.
Unlike humanity, all creatures of magic and whimsy are forced to hide away from the world. Foalán is no exception to this.
In Ireland, the Yokai- otherwise known as the "Aos sí", struggle to maintain their land and secrecy. Their habitat slowly dwindling away due to human settlements expanding. This was the kind of environment that he grew up in, constantly hiding away in fear.
The world he knew was small and his only escape was art.
Long before his claim to fame, Faolán would publish his works under the Alias "Brewster" or "B.s". He felt the need to share his work but due to his wariness of People and 'yokai' alike, wanted to keep his anonymity.
It was until he moved to America, that the name "Brewster" became renowned within the Hidden City. word spread around of a fantastic artist, whose true identity is shrouded in mystery and his artistic insight on things is deeply profound but ultimately harsh.
He met Rupert when he freshly immigrant to America, settling within the hidden city.
It wasn't everyday that human causally hung around in Yokai dominated spaces- and it wasn't everyday, that Rupert would see an Aos si in America. Typical of most Irish and British people, he did not hit it off straight away.
Their 'friendship' started as a mutual dealing. Faolán would gather mystical items for Rupert's cooking while Rupert would help Foalán established connections (whilst letting the Puca keep his anonymity)
It was simply met to be a begrudging deal. Nothing more.
However, overtime. They became genuine friends.
Often meeting up at late-night pubs, small food stands or each others homes. They would talk the night aware, endlessly bantering with one another.
They develop romantic feelings for each other.
Yet they never acted on it, staying as friends for years to come. Needless to say, there was some romantic tension between the two.
Foalán would watch Rupert from the sidelines, staying within the shadows while Rupert shines in the spotlight. It was simpler that way.
There were too many things they thought to themselves why things couldn't work.
Suddenly one day, Rupert mutated live on TV. Faolán witnessed his best friend be transformed into a giant monster pig... And from the comfort of his own home. Foalán was beyond worried for him.
He wouldn't answer his calls, he struggled to find him but Foalán didnt give up on Rupert. He wasn't willing to throw all their years of friendship aware.
When they reunited. Rupert was terrified about taking out his newly found 'cannibalistic' tendencies.
Yet Foalán choose to stay by his side... As always... Because of this, they finally had the courage to tell each other how tell feel. Finally becoming boyfriends.
