( * BARE BONES. a selection of headcanon questions inspired by key bones in the human body. ( Accepting )
@xgrieverspride asked: teeth ( what lasting mark does the warrior of light leave on others? )
If we are doing it from his perceptive, I would think he feels that he doesn’t leave that much of an impression on others, merely sees himself as doing his duty as leader and doing his best to lead others to sure victory – making mistakes along the way and overcoming obstacles, as one does when faced with threats such as the Warriors of Chaos/Spiritus and other world scale threats, like Shinryu. He believes his strength comes from his faith in both the light and his comrades, and they indeed have changed him to be a better man and each lesson he learned from them he will carry on for the rest of his life. I don’t think he really realizes his own influence, as he sees himself as an equal to his comrades, never placing himself above them, even though he is the leader.
However, if I am to put it from the outside perspective – I think he leaves a very heavy mark on others.
Sure, others find it a little difficult to understand him because of his stoic and unflappable demeanor, some of them have even called him emotionless because of it – but they choose to follow him regardless. Some were even inspired by him, becoming more sure of their own convictions by seeing him stay true to his own.
One example of this is Onion Knight, when he said he wanted to protect Terra ( and being teased by Cecil about having a crush on her ) and he tries to cover it up by saying he had more honorable reasons – but The Warrior, in his own frank manner, assures him that wanting to protect Terra is more than reason enough.
“ A true knight is defined by that which he protects – if you’ve decided your calling, see it through. “
Those words would leave a lasting impression on Onion Knight, and they even moved Cecil – so much so, he would be the one to remind Onion Knight of those words, when the younger would question the way the Warrior or Light is dealing with the death of Cosmos and the situation at hand and if the stoic leader had any emotions at all. Cecil was quick to point out that as leader, Light could not surrender to his emotions, that his conviction to protect not only what Cosmos wanted, but to protect them too until the end.
Another example was his clash with Squall. While they both were alone in their travels, the Warrior was looking out for him and had made the wrong misjudgement, assuming Squall did not trust in their allies – and after gauging his strength and hearing out Squall’s reasons, the Warrior apologized and even offered encouragement towards Squall. Where many others would try to convince him of a different way of thinking –
“You should continue down this road you have chosen – eventually, all paths join as one. Do not forget, none of us are alone.”
That remark left an impression on Squall, further strengthening his resolve, whether the Warrior was aware of it or not.
And the best one I saved for last, was his conversation with Garland. Even with learning about the truth of the nature of the world, how it is a never ending cycle of war – Light expressed his desire to end it and save everyone, including Garland.
“ Whatever destiny the world may hold for me, I will never give up! This battle shall come to an end, and I shall save you too!”
“You? Save me?” a pause, perhaps reflection on Garland’s end? Who can say for certain. “ I have heard enough nonsense!”
Even towards his enemy, he extended a hand of compassion – even though he knew it would never be taken. It was enough to make Garland pause, perhaps from surprise or perhaps he was unable to fathom such words and kindness coming from the Warrior, we may never know – but they affected him all the same.
The Warrior in some way, had become a symbol of hope amongst the many who have come to know him – some would call it blind or even fatal optimism, but he holds true to his values regardless. It makes others follow behind him, for his courage and his devotion not just to them but to his ideals and cause make them want to see things through, even if the situation seems dire. His presence itself commands a sense of authority – but not in a way where it’s loud and demanding. It’s the kind that is strong and quiet, grounding.
When he enters the field, there’s a feeling of ‘everything is going to be okay’ but I think this scene best describes that feeling.
And this quote, sums up the Warrior best I think–
“Be strong enough to be gentle.” ( Peter Cullen )
