After a random stabbing incident on the Taichung Metro, the Taichung City Government honored 17 citizens for their bravery in confronting the attacker.
Taichung’s Mayor expressed deep gratitude to these individuals, highlighting their courage and selflessness in preventing further harm and showcasing the best of the community.
Among the honorees, Xu Ruixian stood out for crediting his act of bravery to a character from the anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.
Quoting a line from the series, he explained how it served as a guiding principle, inspiring him to act courageously.
Xu’s attire at the ceremony drew attention, as he proudly declared himself an otaku by wearing a jacket from the popular Japanese video game Monster Hunter.
He took the opportunity to challenge stereotypes associated with otaku culture, emphasizing its positive aspects.
Referring to the stigma that had grown since a past incident, Xu advocated against stereotyping otaku, stating that wearing familiar symbols was a way to connect with fellow fans and share something positive.
In a symbolic gesture, Xu wore the canvas shoes he had on during the incident, which still bore blood stains.
He explained that while the stains couldn’t be wiped off, the shoes remained comfortable to wear, and he chose not to clean them specially.
This choice underscored Xu’s commitment to authenticity and served as a reminder of the events that had unfolded on that fateful day.
Despite the trauma associated with the incident, Xu’s demeanor reflected resilience and pride in his otaku identity.
The ceremony not only recognized acts of bravery but also provided a platform for individuals like Xu to challenge stereotypes and advocate for understanding and acceptance.
Xu’s reference to a fictional character’s bravery resonated with many, highlighting the influence of media and storytelling in shaping values and behavior.
His willingness to share his otaku identity openly served as a reminder of the diversity within communities and the importance of embracing individual interests and passions.
Xu Ruixian’s story reflects the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity and the power of community solidarity in overcoming challenges.
Through his actions and words, Xu exemplified courage, authenticity, and a commitment to challenging stereotypes.
His story serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the potential for positive change when individuals come together to support one another and challenge societal norms.
