Who is your favorite fictional badass?

There's something deeply compelling about characters who are often misunderstood or unfairly maligned. These figures often possess a depth and complexity that adds layers of interest to their stories. While some may have a clear idea of what a 'badass' character looks like, my definition tends to be a bit more nuanced. Here are several characters who have captured my imagination and why they stand out.

Red Mask: An Evolving Villain

From the original story I wrote, Red Mask is the dark reflection of my main hero. She is a character filled with snark, motivation, and a lavish life. Her hunger for power and her wish to alter the timeline combine with deep sympathy, making her a complex and intriguing adversary. Despite being evil 'as hell' and perverted and lecherous, Red Mask eventually turns good in the end, making her arc both compelling and satisfying. She is a Savitar done right, a character that embodies the potential for redemption and transformation.

Annabella Moore: Founding Hero

Annabella Moore, from the same universe, is also a character who defies easy categorization. She is the founder of a new generation of heroes and has an epic final showdown against Red Mask. Throughout her journey, she fights on even when the situation is hopeless. Despite her incestuous and pervy trans-lesbian identity, Annabella proving her character's ability to do the right thing stands out. Her legacy is a testament to the enduring quest for self-actualization and redemption.

Sansa Stark: A Queen for the Ages

Sansa Stark is a character whose complexity and depth often get clouded by the vitriol directed at her by some. She is a smart, beautiful, and politically astute lady who relentlessly works to secure her family's safety. Her

becoming queen after securing her nation's independence was one of the most fulfilling moments in the series, making her a powerful symbol of strength and resilience. Despite the occasional stupid moments, she evolves into a heroic and kind character, earning respect and admiration for her bravery and loyalty.

Sakura Uchiha: A Transformation of Heroism

Sakura Uchiha starts off as an underestimated and often disliked character, but evolves into a hero who becomes the second greatest doctor in her verse. She founds a hospital, a humanitarian act that has touched many, and her journey shows how character development can transform a person's perception and actions. She transitions from being arrogant, perverted, and aggressive to someone who prioritizes her friends and does what she believes is right, even at great personal cost. Her story aligns well with that of Sansa Stark, as both characters have rugged pasts but rely on their principles to succeed.

Rey Skywalker/Palpatine: A Heroic Transformation

Rey Skywalker’s name as Palpatine adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to her character. She is cute, heroic, skilled, and principled, but also scared of her own darkness, which she overcomes at the cost of her life. This transformation, along with her eventual death to save the galaxy, shows the depth of character development in a perfectly imperfect hero. I would love to see an alternate timeline where Rey embraces her darkness and becomes Empress Palpatine, an interesting twist that highlights her growth and potential.

Captain Marvel, MCU: A Hero with Depth

Carol Danvers, or Captain Marvel as she is known, is a character often accused of being OP (overpowered) but not for her arrogance. She has a unique brand of heroism that resonates with many. While she lacks the depth and development of characters like Sakura, Sansa, and Rey, her character has immense potential for growth. Seeing her struggle with the death of her best friend and learn to be a mentor to Ms Marvel would be a powerful narrative. Her ability to lead with experience and wisdom make her a natural captain in any group.

Batwoman: A Legendary Badass

Batwoman, with her unfortunate frosting colors and the occasional hatred from fans, remains a standout character. Despite the criticism, her bravery, agility, and femininity stand out. Ruby Rose’s interpretation, while annoying at times, does not diminish her overall appeal. She is a character who overcomes her struggles and continues to inspire with her bravery and sexuality. Her evolution shows that even the most controversial characters can have a profound impact.

Third Raikage: A Missing Hero

The Third Raikage, one of the greatest ninjas in the Hidden Leaf Village, is often underestimated and overlooked. He fought an entire army for three days and battled bijuu (nine-tailed foxes) one on one with immense bravery and a caring attitude. Despite his undervaluation by others, his legacy as a true man of valor is undeniably significant.

Savitar: The Reimagined Villain

Savitar, the future version of Barry Allen from The Flash, is another compelling villain with a powerful deep voice and an unbeatable design. His transformation from a beloved hero to an unstoppable force aligns with many of the villains who surprise and inspire with their complexity.

Daemon Blackfyre: A Legendary Warrior

Daemon Blackfyre is a character that embodies the epitome of a warrior prince. He was a powerful warrior who could have ruled as a great king had his brother, Daeron, not claim the throne. His epic duel against Gwayne Corbray makes him a character worth exploring further in hypothetical alternate histories. His badass sigil also adds to his mystique.

These characters, while diverse in nature, share a common thread of depth and complexity. They are often misunderstood or underestimated, but their growth and transformation make them truly memorable. Each one represents a unique journey of strength, resilience, and the power to evolve beyond what seemed impossible.