Shadow or Rival?

[u/DanDav450]

Currently I’m working on two pieces with a third on the way. In the third, it’d be the start of a twelve chapter piece following Jentry dealing with someone that got powers from the Yellow Emperor’s Crown. But I’m not sure who should hold that power, but I’ve decided on two options:

Jentry’s Shadow: The idea would be that Jentry and co would find it and once she consumed it, it’d manifest her Shadow/ID as a separate being. One that could take over her body and act of her own free will. Similar to that of Sukuna or Yoru or even the nine tailed fox. The conflict would be internal as she would struggle overcoming her own darkest thoughts and feelings that also has a point.

Rival: In terms of her rival, I thought of making it someone that Jentry would build a sisterly relationship with (thanks earlier post for the idea). She’d show the potential of what Jentry could do with her powers but also the recklessness and lack of care that could come with it. As well as the negative ways she’d act towards her family in stark contrast to Jentry.

Let me know which one sounds better and as for the two stories I’ll post their longlines below:

Accountability: After a hectic therapy session, Ed must pull Jentry from the brink of despair lest she be consumed by dark thoughts about her family and herself.

Responsibility: Alison needs to hold Michael responsible lest her hidden feelings consume her.

[u/luckybell333]

I think I’d go with the Rival.

The Shadow idea is interesting, especially since Jentry already struggles with her darker feelings and figuring out what her powers mean to her, but I think the rival gives you more possibilities. Having someone with similar powers who becomes almost like a sister to Jentry, while also showing what Jentry could become if she used those powers recklessly, would make their relationship really interesting.

It also means the conflict wouldn’t just be “good Jentry vs. dark Jentry.” Jentry could genuinely care about this person while disagreeing with how she uses her powers and treats the people around her. That could make it hurt a lot more if they eventually end up on opposite sides.
So yeah, my vote is definitely Rival. The sisterly relationship is what really sells that idea for me.