#@yutos-laugh

[pen1ag0n]

very 'abcd person bleaches their hair because mental health' hair

[squishosaur]

hm. i think i will ignore the last 8 episodes of arc v

[thinkingotherwise]

what's your headcanons on the windbreaker characters and their ideal types?

Oof that's a tough one, because I like to believe that you can fall in love with someone that isn't your type, but you find this certain connection with them. But I'll try my best 🤞🤞

Wind Breaker characters' "ideal type"

Haruka Sakura - sporty and passionate; because of his drive for fighting it would need to be someone who understands the passions and even better if they share it; someone ready to throw anything at any moment and run to you if needed, really dependable that you can tell all your secrets to;

Akihiko Nirei - nice and confident; someone who'd pump him up, his personal cheerleader, being the sweetest and nicest person known in town with such a lovable voice and words coming out of you, but when he is self-hating knowing just the way to change their words to firm and confident making sure he knows how loved he is;

Hayato Suou - kinda tsundere; someone not keen on PDA and easily flustered by it, and someone who likes discussing things - able to talk with Suou for hours on end about the topics that are interesting to both of them;

Kyotaro Sugishita - "big sibling" type; taking care of everyone and making sure he's part of the group, always making him feel included and sometimes making him socialize with others, even people he seems to hate (Sakura);

Mitsuki Kiryu - gamer; confident in skills and ready to throw hands if someone insults them or boyfriend, someone who looks sweet but in reality has a sharp tongue and can win any argument;

Taiga Tsugeura - someone who likes to take care of themselves; doesn't necessarily mean thin, but someone who likes to spend time making sure they are healthy, maybe someone having these daily trackers that they prepare to have better time management;

Kotoha Tachibana - playful but responsible; someone who gets shit done but is so playful about it, teasing and laughing every second they can, easily convinced to help and sometimes taking too much on their shoulders, struggling to finish things;

Hajime Umemiya - caring and extroverted; giving pieces of advice to everyone and surprisingly ready to help others with school work, touchy - meaning they love PDA and hugging, they would be the perfect duo, to help each other whenever the other one struggles or has some bad days;

Toma Hiiragi - street smart and brave; being tangled in enough trouble to elevate some stress off him, when they help other students solve issues, but also to be able to make his blood pumping and belly ache while causing just enough of the aforementioned trouble;

Ren Kaji - understanding and music fan; someone who would understand his issues and help him through them, being very supportive, also someone who likes different kinds of music to talk to him about it;

Takeshi Enomoto - stylish and a fan of Japanese history; someone who readers too much mafia/yakuza au!, or stories and would like to spend evenings watching action movies, someone who likes fashion and can spend too much time trying to find the perfect outfit for the two of them;

Yuto Kusumi - animal lover; someone who loves animals and loves taking care of them, maybe someone trying to become a veterinary or someone spending their time helping neighbours and shelters with animals, very empathetic and emotional;

Tasuku Tsubakino - open-minded and friendly; someone who gains trust easily and is friendly with everyone they meet, someone that has no problem with the different hobbies of Tasuku and easily supports their every move;

Seiryu Sakaki - pretty/handsome and popular, someone interested in skincare and makeup, very eye-catching and bringing others' attention to them, someone who easily follows along his pranks;

Uryu Sakaki - curious and someone who likes to eat and try new dishes; spending time searching through internet looking for new restaurants and food booths maybe even recipes to try with him;

Choji Tomiyama - complete opposite of him, meaning looks like they could kill you is a cinnamon roll; someone who people could mistake as the leader, like with Togame, but really they are all smiles and ready for cuddles, probably couldn't hurt anyone, only if they were really angry;

Jo Togame - kuudere- popular and disinterested; surprisingly very popular because of their "cool" behaviour, but they are simply disinterested in most things, when others talk to them or while others ask for help, but their loving boyfriend, that can make smile bloom on their face and somehow can interest them in anything he likes;

Kota Sako - someone who has sweet tooth; with his love for sweets it would need to be someone who also doesn't mind going to try sweets every now and then, maybe even someone who takes photos of said food and shows it off on their social media;

Minoru Kanuma - teasing and confident; being the 'comedic relief character' for everyone when they are annoyed by teasing the shit out of them in funny way but also not hurting their feeling in the process;

Yukinari Arima - loving and easily flustered; someone who adores being his centre of attention, even seeking it out, but also being easily flushed the moment he touches them or calls them with endearment;

Teruomi Inugami - equally joyful but more calm; someone who loves the puppy energy of his and hypes him up even more, although they look calm they are excited to spend every minute with him;

Tags: @misticbullet

[paraliveimaginesblog]

hello can I request hdcs fluff for yuto, iori, hajun and allen being woken up with tender kisses all over their face from their partner :'3, grateful for all your paralive writings <33

Allen Sugasano:

It’s hard to kiss him through the blanket but once you finally managed to pull him out of his sleepy little cocoon, you can’t resist. He doesn’t mind it as much as he groaned (as his contempt was mostly for having to be awake when he had barely gotten a few hours of sleep). He is used to be yelled at or rolled off his bed so he’ll take your kisses, leaning into your touch and mumbling a sleepy ‘where did you go?’ when you stopped kissing him so he’d finally get out of bed.

Hajun Yeon:

Hajun always teased you when you were affectionate with him, despite the fact you were very much dating and this was an entirely normal thing to do. He asked how deep your love for him went, a heavy question for such an early morning show, but he didn’t exactly expect an answer. You responded with more kisses, trying not to laugh as he turned his head here or there to show you spots you missed as ‘you better be efficient and cover everything if you’re going to be my wake-up call’.

Iori Suiseki:

Iori can’t help but laugh, thinking it’s a pretty quick way to get him up. He can’t resist pulling you into his arms, sometimes having you tumble right back into bed with him. There’s a few moments of bargaining where he tried to convince you to just fall back asleep with him, but once that doesn’t work he accepted his prize of more kisses instead. He might even consider waking you up like that, if he could ever get the jump on you by waking up earlier that is.

Yuto Inukai:

Yuto thinks it’s the nicest way he’s ever been woken up. Sometimes he even thinks he’s still dreaming, and after a long, hard day at work he wondered if he could request more of those tender face kisses to help him sleep. He wondered what he had done to deserve someone as loving as you but at times he doesn’t want to question it, simply enjoying the love you showed him and coming up with his own ways to give you love in return.  

[cyberdragoninfinity]

i truly cannot get over the third episode of lulu and rin's duel links event like oh my GOD. IT'S SO SILLY!!!! THESE ARE BONAFIDE SITCOM-ASS ANTICS AND IT RULES!!!

like. i cant not smile watching arc-v characters get a chance to just have low stakes goofs and play off of one another. the bracelet girls finally get to just enjoy each other's company and laugh and have fun!!! lulu thinks yuto is cool and shay needs to have a whole big brother meltdown AT yuto about it!! AFTER NEARLY A DECADE SHAY FINALLY GETS TO BE GOOFY!!!! AND A LITTLE BIT EMBARRASSING!!!! AND YUGO IS HERE TOO. im obsessed. simply obsessed. no one does it like you, duel links

the bracelet girls: chatting and laughing like old friends and sisters bonded across the dust that encompasses the universe

shay and yugo standing 20 feet away:

[seasidefallenangel]

playfighting!

notes: kanata yatonokami, iori suiseki, nayuta yatonokami, zen gaho, satsuki ito, yuto inukai x reader, play/fake fighting, fluff.

kanata:

who wins? depends.

✣ probably one of your worse ideas, if we’re being real. he has to be in a specific mood in order to go along with your whims. half the time he ends up shoving you off of him whilst looking like an irritated cat. when he does fight back, he’s careful not to actually hurt you even though you can’t tell with his gritted teeth and narrow brows. there’s a good chance you can take him out and he’ll just huff and ask if you’re done being stupid ; but be warned that while he’s not very muscular, he does sometimes get a rush of adrenaline in a fight that gives him a quick edge over his opponent and the same applies here - before you know it, you’re underneath while he looks down at you, unimpressed. “annoying,” he’ll mutter, and before you can protest he’ll give you a chaste kiss on the lips before leaving and acting like the situation never happened at all. 

iori:

who wins? you.

✣ realistically, iori could knock you out in one quick strike - however, he loves you a lot and loves being the source of your happiness just as much which means he will always let you win. always. you could give the most half hearted attack towards him and he’ll be falling dramatically, going on about how his beloved has betrayed him and left him to die. his shit eating grin as he does so takes any chance of believing him and squashes it. the only retaliation he offers is gently tugging you down with him as he lays on the floor and letting your body rest atop his. he’ll give you that stupid lovesick look he always has when you’re in the room and lean up to kiss your forehead, mumbling a sweet nothing about how proud he is of you for being so brave and strong.

nayuta:

who wins? nobody.

✣ nayuta specializes in stealthily dealing with people rather than physically, as shown by when he pickpockets those thugs for shiki. and even then, he doesn’t really feel like exerting the energy needed to pin you down most of the time. so what's his solution? act like a big baby. the second you launch at him or anything of the sort, he’ll whip out the pout and puppy-dog eye combo with the full knowledge it tugs at your heartstrings. he’s so unbearably cute that you just give up and smother him in hugs and kisses instead, something he’d much rather participate in.

satsuki:

who wins? you.

satsuki is actively terrified a simple hug from him will hurt you, you think he’d ever fight back? he’ll be surprised for a moment when you jump onto his back and almost go to retaliate before realizing it’s you and instead stiffening from such blatant contact. there’s a moment where he’s scared you’re mad at him and that’s why you attacked him, but once you explain you’re just playing around he’ll stand there and take whatever you give him. he’s a relatively built guy so the chance you do any actual harm is minimal, and he'll just be elated you're acting so adorably around him. the raging blush on his face has a higher chance of KOing him than you do.

zen: who wins? him, but he tried to let you win.

this man is built like a brick wall. there is 0% chance you’d be able to knock him down or do him much damage at all if you’re just playing with him. he’ll look at you with a little bit of confusion while you struggle to try and get him to budge. it turns into a smile when you drum your fists against his chest while complaining about how he’s too damn muscular. “alright then,” he’ll laugh and relax his body to give you a better chance, “do your worst, love.” it ends with him apologizing profusely for the way you landed on your ass when trying to push him over. 

yuto:

who wins? hancho.

yuto on his own is a bit of an easy target. sure, he’s a prison guard but you’re not a prisoner and he wouldn’t want to harm you. besides, he kinda leaves “cop mode” behind once he’s home with you so it would be a huge shock to him when you sneak up and tackle him down on the couch. he’ll stammer and blush while you straddle his hips with his wrists pinned above his head, and your victory looks to be assured when a familiar red glint appears in his eyes. “where’s all that bark from before?” hancho will growl in your ear with a smirk on his face as you wriggle helplessly beneath him. 

[kyouka-supremacy]

BSD Official Guidebook Gongeroku - Uemura Yuto & Ono Kensho interview

※ As usual, I'm heavily relying on automatic translators for this, so if you notice any mistake, please feel free to bring it to my attention! I'll be posting the original text in reblogs.

Thank you for your hard work in recording seasons 4 and 5. The story has now come to an end, with the story left “to be continued”¹.

Uemura: In “Two Hours Later,” Atsushi (Nakajima) and Ryunosuke (Akutagawa) trust each other; the exchange “Just the two of us?” "Do we need more?” also occurs in episode 53, but this time Atsushi is smiling a little. He says “Let's go, Akutagawa”, and takes on the challenge. I think it was a very hopeful ending, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the relationship between the two will develop. Also, I'm curious about Akutagawa's outfit. He had something on his head… Ono: That's right. (Akutagawa) looked strong. It seems like he's regained his sense of self, so what will happen next? What are Akutagawa and Atsushi fighting against? I'm curious about it all. I felt like the 5th season ended on an interesting note.

The story ended with Atsushi and Akutagawa fighting together, but looking back at the first season, what do you think has changed about Atsushi and Akutagawa?

Ono: I think the biggest thing is that now they're able to have a conversation. Uemura: That's right. At first, the two of them couldn't have a conversation at all. Atsushi said “I don't understand you at all” (Episode 23). Ono: The relationship started out with each saying “this is what I think'”, not listening to what the other person had to say, and then fighting, so that's where the biggest change happened. I really felt this change during the conversation on the ship² at the end of Season 3 (Episode 37), where they say: “Don't kill anyone for six months. Then you will come to see the truth in its simplest form”. Uemura: Atsushi started out thinking “I can't survive like this”, but then he joined the Armed Detective Agency and found himself in a position to save people. In the process, he made various choices, thinking about what Dazai (Osamu) would do, and what his colleagues at the Armed Detective Agency would do. He was finally able to accept himself and think that maybe there was a meaning to his life. In particular, the movie Bungo Stray Dogs: DEAD APPLE and the conversation with the headmaster (episode 31 part 2) were major turning points for him. He was able to face his inner self. I think that it was through these experiences that he was eventually able to make that “promise” with Akutagawa. Ono: Akutagawa is always one step ahead of Atsushi. But Atsushi is grows up really fast, right? He is the main character after all (laughs). So I think that Atsushi is gradually beginning to see Akutagawa³. Uemura: That's right. I think Atsushi originally had a very narrow vision. But after going through various experiences, his vision has finally broadened. And I think he's now able to see Akutagawa clearly. If you have a narrow vision, you can't accept any way of thinking different from your own; but as your vision gradually broadens, you start to accept that there are other ways of thinking, too. I think that's why he was able to have a dialogue.

On the contrary, what do you think remains the same about Atsushi and Akutagawa?

Uemura: Atsushi has grown and become more confident, but he still panics when he hits a wall. I've been playing Atsushi for a long time, so I'd like him to be to take a decision more quickly, but Wakabayashi Kazuhiro (sound director) would tell me, “It's too early, not yet” “It's not time yet”. When you can see what's ahead, you just want to move forward, but Atsushi takes many detours and puts his full effort into each step. I think that's what makes Atsushi unique, so I always try to cherish it. Ono: One thing that remains unchanged about Akutagawa is that he is always aware of Atsushi. I think that the relationship between Akutagawa and Atsushi, with Dazai in the middle, has not changed at all, and Akutagawa is the one who is acutely aware of that. In Season 5, Akutagawa says that fighting alongside Atsushi is “a trial (that was given to him by Dazai)”, but even though he says that, the fact that he's also aware of Atsushi has not changed.

The “trust” between the two was evident in their deadly battle against Ochi Fukuchi (episodes 53 and 54).

Ono: When Akutagawa was wounded by Fukuchi Ouchi's Amenogozen, and he says "You fool, get out of here" as he lets Atsushi escape, in the original comic Akutagawa has a sad expression on his face. However, in the anime, he has a desperate expression during the fight. The difference is very striking. I felt like the expression in the anime was an expression that matched the visual flow. That left a strong impression on me.

Afterwards, Akutagawa, who has turned into a vampire, faces Atsushi at the airport (Episode 60).

Ono: By this time, Akutagawa had completely become a vampire. I was able to record the scene with Uemura-kun, but… Uemura: Ono-san seemed to have a hard time. Atsushi tries his best to talk to Akutagawa, saying “It's me, don't you recognize me?”, but he can't get the conversation going. When he called out “Akutagawa!”… Ono: “Shhhh”. Uemura: That was all. But there was a moment when he regained a little sense of self. Ono: That was the toughest one. I put a lot of thought into how to express it. Uemura: In that scene, Atsushi was hoping that he would regain his sense of self. I think that was a kind of dynamic that had never existed before.

Having performed for so long up to season 5, what does “Bungo Stray Dogs” mean to you two?

Ono: This is a project that I'm putting my life on the line for. Akutagawa also puts his life on the line, so I feel like that is something we have in common. I think there is something I can learn from Akutagawa's desperation and his approach in facing challenges. When Akutagawa first appeared in the first season, Wakabayashi-san told me: “He doesn't sound strong”. It's a statement I still recall. The recording of Akutagawa started from there, so I hope I have been able to improve on that now, and I would like to continue to do my best without letting my guard down. Uemura: After recording the scene with Atsushi and Akutagawa, Wakabayashi-san said: “It looks like both of them have a lot more to scream”⁴. Ono: Oh, did he say that? Uemura: That's right. I'm so grateful for receiving such words. “I want you to go even further”, isn't that what they meant? I feel that if Bungo Stray Dogs will continue from now on, I will have to do something even further than that. Ono: I see. I guess I'll have to give it my best as well. Uemura: Personally, I would like to see what happens to Atsushi in the future, so I'm looking forward to the next developments.

In the fifth season, Dazai refers to Atsushi and Akutagawa as “the soukoku of a new era”⁵. In season 5, there was a scene where the soukoku duo of Dazai and Nakahara Chuuya played an active role; do you think the two of you can lead a new era?

Ono: Uhm, neither Akutagawa nor Atsushi are as smart as Dazai (laughs). Uemura: Right. I would like to see more of Atsushi and Akutagawa joining forces… But Chuuya and Dazai are both still very active (laughs). Ono: Yes. Both of them are still amazing. I don't think Akutagawa and Atsushi can realistically compete. Well, let's try our best to achieve that goal. Uemura: As the story progresses, I think it would be great if the two of them could become a duo known as Soukoku. It's different Soukoku from Dazai-san and Chuuya, it's a Soukoku that is unique to the two of them.

¹ The 「未了」 of the episode 11 ending ² This bit confused me, but they are indeed using 「船」 ship. They're probably referring to how the scene was showed as flashback while Atsushi was on Fitzgerald's ocean liner. ³ 「それでだん だん敦にも、芥川が見えてきたんだ なと思いますね。」 not sure about this one. Began to see Akutagawa in his own eyes? Began to see Akutagawa in himself? ⁴ 「まだまだ2 人とも叫べそうだな」 not sure about this one either 😔 Is it “it looks like both of them can scream even more”? ⁵ Unless I'm widely mistaken, this is a misattribution; Dazai says this in episode 24, not in season 5 (please correct me if I'm wrong). I don't remember Dazai saying anything similar in season 5.

[sugawarassoulmate]

i love ur bully!osamu universe, ty for feeding us that 🫶🏼

but i was wondering ab the very first time osamu told his girl that he loved her. like their very first “i love you”s. how would it have gone? cause ik he’s an absolute lil shit but i also know he would mean every single word of it. would he just sneak it in a make out session? or just whisper it in her ears? I NEED TO KNOOOWWWWW.

we've already got their first "i love you"s bestie!!!

but.....the first time samu says "i love you" in front of other people? 🥹 it really wasn't a big deal. it was a small, fleeting moment that neither of you thought much of.

"is that y/n? put her on speaker, i wanna say hi," suna says with ginjima and yuto chiming in agreement. the three of them say hi, much to samu's annoyance but his scowl goes away once he hears your voice.

"hiiiii, guys," you chirped. "samu, don't forget to pick up the yum yum sauce when you get dinner. you forgot last time."

"yeah, yeah, stop pesterin' me, woman," he responds with no malice in his voice. you giggle on the other line, causing osamu's friends to fawn over how cute you are. "i'll be home in a bit, okay? i love ya."

"love you, too! have fun!" osamu doesn't notice the quiet in the air after you hang up until he sees three pairs of eyes staring right at him. he knows he's fucked up when suna and ginjima immediately make kissy noises at him.

"you what her????" suna yelps, grabbing his phone to text the group chat.

"bro finally!!!" yuto laughs, holding his sides. his phone starts blowing up soon enough, from his former teammates all hollering and sending gifs and emojis.

"don't forget the yum yum sauce, samu!" suna says when they parts ways.

[salacious-cb]

Update #2

Jay : Off to another meeting with sponsors *sighs* I wish I had someone to keep me company

Jake : *zoned out* What to do…?

Yuqi : Day off! Anyone wanna grab coffee?

Ningning : I clearly wasn’t prepared for this photo

San : I really need a hand at the bar

Wooyoung : I managed to slip out for a break after rehearsal

Kino : I thinks I had too much fun last night…

Jina : Good morning! I fell asleep in my costume *laughs*

New Members?: @dancequeenbae [Jake’s Assistant] @livealittleoc-cb @monsterhigh-cb @evicted-oc @theinvitation-bot @welcome-to-maniac @fantasyaespa @k-venturetime @multi-joong @kardpackcb @obsession-cb @badbf-cb @folklore-cb @domxbot @welcometosector1 @reve-rv @multi-esme @the-hellhounds @oppositesattraxt @coffeexdreamcb @silcntxnight @moonlightchn @blogger-yura @thesugaredalchemists @doom-bc @redlight-cb @inferno-cb @darkloversxcb @clubwnderland @dragonrider-cb @incubus-johnny @songsoftheocean-oc @dream-cb @demigods-ateez @raiden-oc @secretscb @heistkingscb @yuto-on-the-go @switchxincubus-hanse @hybridsheltercb @hybrid-babies @dark-royals-cb @vixen-demonscb @k-half-blood @oc-acehouse @serenityxbecca [DM + / -]

[cococharm]

ONE ↭ club venus

Club Venus was alive tonight, like it always was on a Friday. The flashing lights painted the scene in electric blue and magenta. Y/n balanced a tray full of cocktails, dodging rowdy patrons. After seven months of working there, the chaos had become familiar—comforting even—though she still felt like an outsider at times.

Her gaze flickered across the room, eventually landing on him. Christian Yu was impossible to miss, like a statue carved from granite. Broad shoulders, a sharp jaw, and an expression that promised he’d break bones without hesitation. Unapproachable. Intimidating. Yet, like every other girl at the club, Y/n’s eyes were drawn to him. In the months she had been there, they’d hardly exchanged more than a few words, but there was something about Christian that tugged at her.

It wasn’t just the way he looked, though that alone was enough to make her heart race. He was a mystery, and she couldn't help but watch him. Every now and then, she’d catch him glancing her way. He’d offer a brief nod or a small smile, but Y/n always looked away quickly. His size, the depth of his voice, and his reputation scared her just enough to keep her distance.

She approached the bar, setting down her tray, but her thoughts stayed on Christian. Maybe it was foolish, but she was curious. Curious about him, his past, the man behind the bouncer who rarely spoke more than a grunt in her direction.

Hwasa slid up beside her, balancing a tray of full drinks. Her lips curved into a sly grin as she followed Y/n’s gaze. “You’re staring,” she teased, her voice barely audible over the music.

Y/n snapped her head back, her cheeks flushing with heat. “I’m not staring.”

Hwasa raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in her eyes. “Sure, you’re not.”

Rolling her eyes, Y/n tried to brush off Hwasa’s knowing look. “I’m just… observant,” she mumbled, reaching for a rag to wipe down the bar.

Hwasa’s grin widened. “Uh-huh. And Christian just happens to be in your line of sight?”

Y/n busied herself, avoiding her gaze. “He’s the head bouncer. It’s his job to watch the crowd too.”

“Right,” Hwasa drawled, unconvinced. She leaned in closer, lowering her voice. “You know, I heard he’s single. And he’s been asking about you.”

Y/n’s heart skipped a beat, but she forced herself to remain nonchalant. “Probably just making sure I’m not causing trouble.”

Hwasa laughed, a tinkling sound that somehow cut through the pulsing bass.

As the night wore on, the familiar routine of balancing trays and dodging drunken patrons kept Y/n’s hands busy, but her mind remained distracted. Christian was stationed near the entrance, his eyes scanning the crowd. Every time she passed, she felt his eyes on her.

Later, as the crowd began to thin, Y/n leaned against the bar next to Hwasa. “Long night?” Hwasa asked, not bothering to look up from the gin and tonic she was pouring.

Y/n sighed, her eyes drifting to where Christian now stood, talking to Dabin, another bouncer. “Yeah, you could say that.”

Hwasa smirked. “You know, you’re not exactly subtle, staring at Christian like that.”

“I am not,” Y/n protested, though her cheeks warmed under Hwasa’s gaze.

“Girl, please,” Hwasa chuckled. “It’s fine. Everyone stares at Christian. But good luck with that.”

Before Y/n could ask what she meant, Yuto appeared beside her. “Malibu, can you grab some stock from the back?”

She nodded, eager for a distraction. As Y/n headed toward the stockroom, her thoughts still lingered on Christian. She grabbed the bottles quickly, eager to get back to the floor. As she made her way down the dimly lit hallway, she felt a presence behind her. Turning, she found herself face to face with Christian.

For a split second, it felt like the world around her stilled. The distant hum of the club faded as she locked eyes with him.

“You good?” His voice was low, but it was enough to send a shiver down her spine.

Y/n nodded, suddenly feeling self-conscious. There was a pause, and for a moment, she wondered if he would say more. But Christian just nodded, his expression unreadable, as he walked past her, heading back toward the entrance.

She stared after him, her heart pounding in her ears. What was it about him that made her feel this way? He was just a guy—a ridiculously attractive one with a mysterious past—but still just a guy.

Shaking off the lingering thoughts, Y/n finished her shift, trying to focus on the familiar routine. By the time she left, the cool night air hit her skin like a relief. She walked to her car, keys in hand, but her thoughts were elsewhere.

She couldn’t help but wonder—who was Christian Yu, really? And why couldn’t she stop thinking about him?

previous | masterlist | next summary: you once lived a privileged life, until a family scandal sent it crumbling down. now, working as a cocktail waitress at Club Venus. you're drawn to christian yu, the head bouncer. you suddenly enter a world of fight clubs, friendship, lingering relationships, and dark past.

[d4rkthots]

夜の女王

(The queen of the night) Part one. -preview-

This story includes (mention of drugs, violence, murder, an other illegal acts -do not try at home.)

M (assassin/mafia associate) x F (Mafia Leader) seonghwa wanted you from the moment you met…

You stand staring out of your mansion window, getting where you were now wasn’t easily obtained. You wanted to become one of the most feared mafia leaders in Korea, men looked down on women, they didn’t see them as equals, you had to prove them wrong…you believed you were able to do whatever they could.

Seong-hwa was originally part of a rival gang that bullied you out of sales and becoming the biggest female dealer in Seoul. After his leader (Ryui Misano) was imprisoned for committing over a hundred murders Seong-hwa decided to help you. Seong-hwa was with Ryui when he got arrested but managed to flee and skip town.

Something about you made him want to reach out a feeling of longing, he was drawn to you before all this extra shit went down. After Ryui was arrested his other subordinate Yuto Yun received all of his properties and products, you needed to get rid of him before he targeted you. If you could get your hands on Ryui’s product you could be the biggest seller in Korea with extended connections. But you couldn’t find him.

Seong-hwa sits in a chair on his balcony, his messy black outgrown hair cascading over his forehead nearly fully covering his sharp brown eyes he stares at the scenery in front him pulling a cigarette out of its pack before dialing your number in his phone, he lights it and takes a long drag before pressing the call button and waiting.

You stare at the unknown number and answer the call after letting it ring twice. “Hello….?” You say a hint of caution in your voice.

“Hi there pretty~” Seong-hwa purrs into the receiver as he exhales a cloud of smoke.

Your eyes widen slightly and you quickly recognize the voice “…Seong-hwa…..? I thought Ryui got arrested, weren’t you with him….? How are you calling me right now?” You ask in confusion.

Seong-hwa lets out a faint laugh at your reply. “Oh dear~ you think I’m dumb?” He takes another long drag of his cigarette before speaking again. “I’ve been planning this escape for months, it finally paid off.”

You smirk slightly, flicking Your lighter a few times “so let me guess… you left town already? why did you call me…hmm?”

Seong-hwa can tell just by your tone over the phone you’re up to no good he lets out a soft sigh. “I want to make a deal.” Seong-hwa speaks plainly into the receiver and takes another long puff of his cigarette, he lets out another cloud of smoke that’s quickly blown away by the wind.

Your eyebrows raised slightly “and what might it be?”

Seong-hwa lets out a soft chuckle as he looks off into the night sky. “Ive been thinking about you…. Can’t stop. I feel like we were connected in the past life…I want to become partners with you…..Yuto’s staying at the Hyatt Regency…..Seoul bay hotel” The words came out of Seong-hwa’s mouth in a sensual way but he spoke with a serious tone of voice as well.

You scoff gently “How do I know I can trust you…..that you won't screw me like your boss did?”

“…….You don’t..” He replies back in a snarky tone of voice as he leans against the wall, he closes his eyes before taking one more deep inhale of his cigarette before exhaling and putting it out. “You’ll just have to find out for yourself~ if I’m trustworthy or not” He replies back playfully.

You wait a second before replying “…if you screw me I’ll make you regret it…” You say in a slightly threatening way “I hope you enjoy your vacation, don't miss me too much…and dont get caught…” you smirk

“Oh don’t worry dear I’m a professional~..” Seong-hwa speaks, being half sarcastic with a hint of playfulness before hanging up. The phone call abruptly ends and you hear a soft beep in your ear followed by a dial tone.

Despite Seong-hwa being a serial killer and complete psycho he acted like a genuine human he had limits when it came to assassinating (no women and no kids.)

If he wasn’t a killer he’d be a great husband.

Part two —-> (smut warning)

[writingwhimsey]

Married to The Enemy- Shingen Ch. 63

Chapter 63

I couldn’t help but to feel anxious and hopeful as I sat beside Shingen at the banquet. Everything Yuto had said about his wife lined up and I couldn’t help but to wonder. I wanted to ask Sasuke his thoughts on the matter, but he was currently hiding from Kenshin who had grown bored with his sake and pickled plums.

The party was starting to dwindle down and some of the vassals were beginning to leave. I was starting to think that I wouldn’t be getting to meet Yuto’s wife. At least not tonight. One of Shingen’s vassals was coming over to join us, wanting to chat with Shingen.

“It really is wonderful to have you back home, my lord.” He said.

Shingen smiled and gave his vassal his attention. Though he kept a comforting arm around me, holding me close. “It is good to be home.” Shingen said. “And I have to thank you all for throwing such a wonderful welcome home party.”

“It is a great party. Though I have to admit I was disappointed when Yuto said he wouldn’t be inviting any dancing girls.” The vassal said.

“I didn’t think it would be respectful of our new lady.” Yuto replied.

“That would be rather disrespectful to my angel.” Shingen agreed.

“I think it would have been funny to see Yukimura get red-faced over.” Saki said with a grin.

“Why would I get red-faced over some girls?” Yukimura asked, his cheeks getting red just at the thought.

Saki giggled. “I don’t know beautiful women dancing specifically for welcoming you and Lord Shingen home.”

“I wouldn’t care about that.” Yukimura said. 

“What? You wouldn’t look?” Saki teased him.

“No. Why would I want to look at anyone besides you?”

Saki smiled and then leaned in to kiss Yukimura on the cheek. “You’re so cute and sweet.”

Yukimura’s cheeks reddened. “No…you’re the cute one.” He said, though his voice was low so he could just barely be heard muttering something so cute.

“When you have your own goddess, there’s no need to look at anyone else.” Shingen agreed, pulling me closer and kissing me on top of the head.

I smiled up at him, happy for his love and the distraction from my anxiety. “You really are the best.” I told him. 

“It’s almost strange to see our lord settled down with just one woman. But it’s a good strange.” The vassal said. “You must be something quite special Lady Ava.”

“Oh, I don’t know about that.” I replied.

“She is very special, indeed.” Shingen said. “There is no one else I could ever want or be this happy to have in my life.”

I felt my cheeks reddening. “Shingen…”

Shingen just smiled at me and kissed me on the forehead.

The party guests continued to dwindle down. Oba-san had gone to the kitchen to get some more food. A few more guests trickled out and only a handful were left, though most of the ones that were left, were far too drunk to do much other than pass out. That was when the doors to the back of the room opened and a woman was standing at the entrance.

“Ah, there’s my lovely wife.” Yuto declared rising from his seat to go to her.

I couldn’t help but to stare at her. She wore a traditional kimono, a dark red with a floral print. Her long brown, with a few streaks of gray, was swept up into a bun. She had the beginnings of laugh lines around her mouth. Her eyes…the same green eyes I saw when I looked in the mirror. 

I was stunned. Too stunned to even move. I felt frozen in my seat. I had been waiting ten years to find out what had happened…hoping that I would see her again. And here she was alive and well.

“It looks like I’ve missed most of the party.” Kana said to Yuto, taking in the appearance of the various passed out vassals on the floor.

“The guests of honor are still here.” Yuto replied, taking her hand. “This way. I want you to meet Lord Shingen and his lovely new wife, who is with child and has expressed an interest in meeting you.”

Kana smiled at Yuto. “Well, if she would like me to assist in the birth, that would be an honor.”

Yuto led her by the hand back to where we sat. Shingen was beside me, holding my hand, his thumb gently rubbing the back of my hand. He could pick up on how I was feeling and must have known from my posture and the look on my face that it was her.

“Kana, my darling, this is Lord Shingen and his lovely wife, Princess…”

“Ava…” She said, finishing the sentence for him, her eyes widening as she looked at me.

It was like a spell had been broken. I pushed myself to my feet and was throwing myself at her. “Mom!”

Mom caught me in her arms and we both clung tightly to each other as tears of joy began to spill from our eyes. “Oh, my sweet girl.” Mom said. “Oh, how I have missed you.”

“I’ve…missed you…too.” I replied, hugging her tighter. I hadn’t had a hug from my mom in so long…I suddenly felt like I was a little girl again. A little girl who missed her mom. And I didn’t care what anyone else thought of it.

I wasn’t sure how long we stood there like that, just hugging each other and crying. Mom pulled back slightly to look at me, taking my face between her hands, her thumbs wiping away my tears like she had done for me many times as a child. “I…I can’t believe you’re here…”

I smiled through my tears. “I can’t…believe YOU’RE here…we have so…much to catch up on.”

Mom smiled at me. “Very much.” She agreed with me as looked me up and down. “Like the fact that you’re married and I’m gonna be a grandma.”

I smiled at her and nodded. “I’m…not the only one…married now.”

Mom laughed. “Yes…and I hope you aren’t mad at me.”

I shook my head. “There’s no way I could be. I’m just so happy you’re alive.” I was then hugging her once more.

“Lady Ava’s questions earlier make sense now.” Yuto said to Shingen.

“Yes, once you started to tell us about how you and Kana met, we both began to suspect.” Shingen replied.

It was at this moment, we heard a crash towards the entrance of the room. “Kana?”

Mom and I both turned to see Oba-san standing in the doorway, a tray of spilled food and broken dishes lay at her feet. “Mom?” My mom asked, her eyes wide.

Oba-san was then stepping over the broken dishes and running over to us, joining the hug and making it a group hug. “Oh, I always knew deep down you were alive and well somewhere, but…still seeing you in person and holding you…”

“You’re both…here…” Mom said in disbelief.

Maids were already quickly moving to clean up the spilled tray. “Well, this is truly a beautiful sight.” Yoshimoto commented.

“It really is.” Shingen agreed.

“Perhaps though, we should move this and the conversation to follow to a more private location.” Saki suggested.

“That’s probably a good idea.” I agreed.

It wasn’t much later that I found myself in a different room with my mom and grandmother. Saki had brought us tea and snacks and then left. The guys had all agreed that it would be best to let us have our reunion alone.

“I still can’t believe it.” Mom said as she sipped her tea and looked at me. “How did you two end up here?”

“The same way you did. A wormhole.” I answered.

“Is…is that what that was?” Mom asked.

“Yes.” I answered.

“Ava’s ninja friend, Sasuke knows all about them.” Oba-san said.

“I just…what?” Mom asked.

I did my best to explain the wormholes and what they were.

“If I hadn’t traveled through one myself, I’d probably not be able to believe it.” Mom said. “So, Ava, did you end up getting here the same time I did and just land in a different area because I pushed you out of the way?”

I shook my head. “No. I’ve been here only a few years now.”

“I see.”

“And I’ve only just gotten here.” Oba-san said. “Ava and Shingen came to the future and spent around six months there. I decided to come back with them. I didn’t want to miss the birth of my great grandchild.”

“Wait…you went to the future and came back?” Mom asked.

I nodded. “Just like you’ve found someone who makes you happy, I’ve found the same.” I replied. “Well, even before I married Shingen, I’d found a big family I knew I couldn’t leave behind.”

“That’s right….I remember Yuto telling me that Lord Shingen was marrying an Oda princess… but that…would make that…you. How?” Mom asked.

“You see, when I first arrived here…I kinda arrived the night of the Hono-ji incident and saved… Nobunaga.” I explained. “And after that he declared me his lucky charm and gave me the title of Princess of the Oda. Which was really just an excuse to keep me close.”

Mom blinked in surprise. “But then he married you off?”

“I agreed to it.” I said. “If I had objected, Nobunaga wouldn’t have forced me.”

“And then I’m pretty sure once she SAW Shingen, she had no problems marrying him.” Oba-san said with a teasing grin.

I giggled. “Well…I mean…yeah that did help ease my nerves a bit. But he’s also been nothing but sweet and charming and kind from the beginning.”

“You do know…he has a bit of a reputation, right?” Mom asked me. “Having been with Yuto these last ten years, I’ve learned a lot about your husband…and while he is a good man, he’s got a reputation for being a bit of a playboy.”

I sighed. “I know. But that’s the old Shingen.” I replied. I then explained everything about Shingen, his illness and how he had come to terms with the fact that he would die young and hadn’t wanted to leave behind a family to grieve him.

“I see…I’m still not sure I trust that.” Mom said, feeling skeptical. “Your father was a notorious womanizer and I thought he had changed for me, for us, but then he up and left.”

“Trust me, sweetheart, I’ve seen the way Shingen looks at Ava. He’s completely dedicated to her. He worships the ground she walks on.” Oba-san assured.

I smiled, my cheeks flushing a bit. “I have no doubts about Shingen's feelings for me. Our wedding night he even told me he wasn’t expecting anything and we would take our relationship at a pace that was comfortable for me.”

“I’m still going to keep my eye on him and if he ever does anything to hurt my baby, I don’t care how big and strong he is, I’m kicking his ass.”

I laughed and hugged my mom. “So, I have a question for you now.”

“What is it?” She asked.

“You and Yuto…he kinda gave us a bit of a rundown of what happened. But uhm…I’d like to know from your perspective and also…does he know? You know about where we’re really from?”

Mom nodded. “Yes, he knows.” She answered. “When I arrived here, I arrived somewhere outside of town. I stumbled around for a few days. My clothes were in tatters by the time I reached the town, looking for help. Yuto was the first one to find me and offer me aid. He brought me to his home and gave me some food and clothes…that’s when I realized why my cell phone didn’t work. At first I thought I’d somehow ended up in some kind of historical actor’s village or something.”

“I can see how you could come to that conclusion.” I replied.

Mom nodded. “So once I adjusted to the fact that I wasn’t going crazy, I started trying to figure out how to get back to the future…that was interesting trying to explain to Yuto, but once I showed him my cell phone and the few other things I had in my purse convinced him though.”

“That’s one way to convince people.” Oba-san said.

“What made you decide to stop trying?” I found myself asking.

Mom put her hand on mine. “You’re probably upset with me for giving up?”

I shook my head. “No. I just want to know what changed your mind.”

“Well, I had the thought that it seemed the storm was a key to traveling through time. So…I kind of started recklessly chasing storms.” Mom answered. “I got hurt one night and almost died. If Yuto hadn’t been there and helped me…I wouldn’t have made it. As he nursed me back to health after that, he talked some sense into me. Reminded me that getting back home would only be good if I could do it in one piece.”

“Well, I am glad that he helped you realize that.” I replied.

“So, while he took care of you, is that when you started to fall for him?” Oba-san asked.

“Yes…that was when I realized he really did care for me. I still had a hard time trusting him.”

“What made you change your mind?” I asked.

“He…he still loves his first wife. He’s kept her grave nice, brings fresh flowers to her three times a week.” Mom explained. “He still tells her about his day and how the children they had together are doing. He doesn’t take relationships or love lightly.”

“That sounds like a man who really can display true love.” Oba-san agreed.

I smiled. “Well, I’m glad that you’ve found someone who makes you happy.” I replied. “And I’m even happier that we’re all together again.”

Mom smiled as she hugged me and Oba-san. “I am so happy about that, too.” She told me.  She was then rubbing my belly. “And I’m glad I get to be here for you during the…I’m guessing second half of your pregnancy.”

“Roughly, yeah.” I replied. “So, how did you decide to become a midwife, by the way?”

“Oh that…I decided I needed to do some work. And I wanted to do something that helped people. I thought being a midwife would be a good way to do that.” Mom answered. “What about you? Your fashion designer dreams?”

“I’m a very in demand seamstress.” I answered, a smile of pride on my face. “When I was still with the Oda forces, I started sewing and working with the seamstresses in Azuchi. Then when Shingen and I got married and were living in Echigo, Shingen helped me start working with the seamstresses there. He even ordered the first commission from me and helped me get established in Echigo. I’ve started adding some modern flare to the clothes I’ve been making here and they’ve really been a big hit.”

“So, you’ve still found a way to make your dream come true then?” Mom asked.

I nodded. “Yup and it’s…it’s honestly even better. I get to see how happy my customers are and make custom pieces.”

“Well, I am glad that you’ve found a way to still have your dream.” Mom told me. “It makes me happy to see you so happy…even if I’m still skeptical about that husband of yours…or the fact that it was a political marriage.”

“Mom…it may have started out as an arranged political marriage, but we really are in love now.” I explained. 

“I’m sure he probably won you over with sex.” Mom said.

I gave my mom a look. “It was actually the lack of sex that started to win me over.”

Mom furrowed her brow. “What?”

“You see…on our wedding night, I was fully expecting that he would be expecting sex…but well, he told me he would wait until I was ready.” I explained. “We didn’t even kiss for weeks.”

“I’m betting he really turned up the charm to get you ready.” Mom said.

I frowned. “Shingen is just naturally charming and sweet.” I replied. “I mean yeah he flirted with me, but we did get to know each other pretty well before we went there. Also…there have been a few incidents where any doubts that I could have had were erased.”

“What do you mean?” Mom asked.

I explained about the women gossiping in Echigo and bullying me. I explained about when we were in the modern day and Akemi showed up. “So there’s those, but also… he’s not afraid to be romantic or romance me. He likes doing the sweet and cheesy things like wearing matching clothes. Helping me get ready and do my hair.”

Mom’s eyes widened. “He…he does all that?”

“Oh, I’ve seen it.” Oba-san said. “When they were visiting the future, he let her pick out all of his clothes and happily let her lead him around. And the look on his face when she told him she was pregnant, I’ve never seen anyone happier about the news of becoming a father.”

“It’s also little things too. He listens to every word I say and remembers every little thing I tell him. He also pays attention to my body language and my facial expressions in any situation. He knows what I want without me having to say it.”

“Well…that does sound like a good husband. I’m still going to be a bit skeptical of him, though.” Mom said. “A leopard can’t change its spots.”

“You’ll see, Mom. Shingen is the best.” I assured her. “He’s also the most amazing and attentive lover.”

Mom sighed and shook her head, but she laughed. “Well, he probably picked up a few things over the years playing the field.”

I frowned. “Mom.”

“Alright, I will give him the benefit of the doubt.” She replied. “Especially since you do seem to be quite happy and in good health.”

I smiled. “I am.”

The three of us stayed up quite a bit longer, chatting well into the night. At some point I was growing tired, but not yet wanting to part from my mother. She had me lay my head down in her lap and stroked my hair. It was how she used to get me to sleep when I was a kid. And it worked like a charm still as I quickly fell asleep.

Kana sat stroking Ava’s hair even after she was in a deep sleep. A warm smile graced her lips as she looked down at her daughter. “It’s truly a miracle that we’re all together again.” She said.

“Very much so.” The eldest of the Shiba women agreed. She was then lifting an arm and wrapping it around her daughter’s shoulders. “I’m so happy to have us all together again.”

Kana smiled, her head resting on her mother’s shoulder, her hand still stroking Ava’s hair. “I’m so happy, too. And Ava is going to be a great mother.”

“Of course she is. She’s had two wonderful examples.”

Kana chuckled. “This may be the happiest moment of my life.”

Taglist: @limonzu @zulablaise @oda-princess @kisara-16

@tele86 @lovely-bubb1es @lucyw260 @queengiuliettafirstlady

@bjorkshire-pudding @eventinelysplayground @selenacosmic

[jinkoh]

Pentagon - realizing they have feelings for you

SFW; gender-neutral reader

@huipinkhair requested: Do you think you could write a little ptg ot9 realising they have feelings for you? Like the moment they realise and what they do

a/n: tysm for requesting as always!! ❤️ sorry that it took so long! i hope you'll enjoy these~

Masterlist

Jinho

He sees you working hard at something you’re passionate about. You don’t have to be all that good at it, he’ll always be impressed if you put in an honest effort. He can’t help thinking that it’s admirable because it’s a character trait he values.

He’d probably keep his feelings close to his heart. But if he ever sees you falter or feel insecure, he’d at least tell you how impressed he is with your hard work and encourage you.

Hui

Hongseok

It’s small gestures, like how you leave small sticky notes or a coffee in his studio to cheer him up when he has to work a lot. When he’s tired or things are tough he’ll find himself wanting to see you. It’s not easy for Hui to let others take care of him, but somehow it’s so easy when it’s you. You just make him feel at home.

He doesn’t tell you immediately. For now it’s enough to seek comfort in your presence.

Shinwon

He does something for you, maybe makes you a sandwich or whatever, constantly thinking about what you’d like the best and what would make you the happiest. The moment he gives it to you and sees your grateful smile he's a goner.

Might turn a little clumsy around you, suddenly hyper aware of every little interaction.

Yeo One/Changgu

He makes you laugh with something silly he says. He didn’t even consider it that funny but when you burst into giggles he thinks he wants to be the source of your laughter many many times from here on out.

Tries hard to be funny around you and then smiles fondly whenever your eyes light up with laughter.

You support him in something he does. Maybe he has a musical role or a concert and you come to cheer him on. When he spots you in the audience he'll be overcome with happiness thinking to himself that he really loves you. Might just tell you after the show in a rush of endorphins.

Yanan

Maybe you scold him a little for being thoughtless and at first he gets annoyed and defensive. But then you spill that you’re upset because you were worried about him. He realizes that you must really care for him and somehow it makes his heart flutter? Care for him some more please?

Yuto

He listens to you talking about something you love. Maybe it’s just something small like your favorite yogurt but he realizes he could keep listening forever. And that’s what he does, he keeps listening and thinking over and over how much he adores you.

Kino/Hyunggu

Wooseok

He catches you humming or dancing by yourself while doing something, clearly in a good mood, and he’s just so endeared by it. He’d probably feel torn between gushing over how cute you are and watching in silence so you don’t stop.

Hyunggu would probably feel very excited about confessing to you and not wait too long. Love is something that should be shared after all.

It’s a simple moment. You’re watching a movie or show together, joking around a bit and you’re just so comfortable with him, casually leaning your head against his shoulder or playfully nudging him in the side and that’s when realization sinks in. He's so far gone for you.

Now that he’s aware of his own feelings, he can’t help but be incredibly flustered around you, heart racing at every simple touch.

Masterlist

[paraliveimaginesblog]

the drunk mc rejecting their partners because they didn't recognize them was so cute and funny please <3 was wondering if you can do something similar for iori, saimon, and ryoga, thank you so much!!!

(i'm so sorry to Saimon FASDFASD)

Iori Suiseki:

Now this was an interesting situation. When he sidled up next to you at the bar he expected you to greet him with enthusiasm, but instead he received a side eye like he hadn’t showered in a week. When you purposely get up and put a seat between you, it takes all his self-control to not burst out laughing, hiding his smile behind his hand as he knew you’d find him even shadier if you saw his reaction. He tried to play it cool, calling out your name and reveling in the shocked look on your face; you actually looked like you might call the cops on him, head whipping around to see if there was any security nearby. He popped up a family picture on his phone, zooming in on your happy faces squished together due to everyone trying to cram into the picture. You took a moment, looking between the picture and him a comical amount of time before accepting that you knew this man for sure. There’s a thought chipping away at the back of his mind, the one that reminded him how lucky he was to have you and that this could’ve been his reality (with him just a stranger to you) if he hadn’t reached back out to you after the death of the Suiseki Clan. You seemed to trust him enough to walk you back to your home (which he subsequently had a key for, leading to more panic before the kids stepped in to back Iori up).

Naoakira Saimon:

Saimon is admittedly amused by the situation, hands sliding into his pockets as you clarify that you’re happily taken. You rambled a bit about the situation, hitting a sore point as you talked about how you weren’t sure if he saw you or his late wife when you were together, but you quickly apologized to the stranger as your sad thoughts weren’t meant to slip out like that. Saimon offered to hear you out, having a glass of water delivered directly to you as you both sat back down at the bar. He listened to woes that you could never be direct with, thoughts that scared you because you never knew the answer to them; he feels guilty that you felt like this, having to hold himself back from physically comforting you like he wanted to. He thanked you for putting your trust in him with your words, promising that he would see you home safely so that you have the chance to tell your boyfriend exactly how you feel.

Ryoga Tosa:

Ryoga let out a huff, not knowing if you were just messing with him in your drunken stupor or not. But he knew how you were normally, and the way you pulled yourself away with a fierce glare at a man who towered over you, biceps the size of your head, made him realize just how deep your loyalty ran. He couldn’t admit that it was making him feel some type of way due to the situation at hand, which was convincing you his intent was pure and he was simply trying to see you home safely. He considered just tossing you over his shoulder and running, but he wasn’t looking to add more years onto his sentence should someone call the cops on him. He has a very non-threatening Yuto escort you home safely, not happy he had to ask for help but your safety took priority over his pride.

[roseillith]

Going back to Ninku episode 29, but it seems like the way you tried to insert action scenes is the same as what you did for Naruto.

Wakabayashi: Both feel the same, don’t they.

Perhaps, I thought you changed the setting considerably along with the storyboard.

Wakabayashi: Yeah, I changed it. (laughs)

I could see what kind of action you wanted to show in the process.

Wakabayashi: Obviously Ninku‘s action format was transferred over to Naruto. Still it wasn’t fully formed, but I started to notice something at that time. How to set up action or the amount of cuts, I guess? I think that it was about time that I was finally able to figure it out.

So that’s how it got finalized on Naruto. The reason why those three episodes are called ‘divine episode’ even by anime fans who aren’t familiar with animation.

Wakabayashi: (Laughs) Thank you very much. (Interview Note: On Naruto, Wakabayashi handled directing, storyboarding, and animation supervision on following three episodes: episode 30 (The Sharingan Revived: Dragon-Flame Jutsu!); episode 71 (An Unrivaled Match: Hokage Battle Royale!”; episode 133 (A Plea From a Friend). These are absolute must-watch episodes for Sakuga Obsessed.)

How did you end up getting involved with Naruto?

Wakabayashi: With Ghost in the Shell, we had discussions about working on subsequent episodes. As I kept working it, I found it would be troublesome to others,  so I let it drop to one episode. Around the time, I was thinking about what should I do next, then Naruto got started. There was opening available at Pierrot, so as I wobbled back there and Naruto‘s director (Yuto) Itachi suddenly handed me a scenario with a ‘here-you-go’ manner. That was episode 30. I thought I was more suitable for characters like Rock Lee, so Sasuke’s Sharingan story didn’t click with me. However, it seemed like an important episode, so I passed back my intention directly to the director (laughs). And that’s how it happened. Because I still had some time in my schedule, I tried to do storyboards, direction and animation supervision. Therefore, with the reaction I got from the Ghost in the Shell action-construction method as basis, I wanted to put a serious consideration on assembling the action sequence. I put my heart and soul into how to make that part of the manga really awesome.

Did you personally pick out animation team for this episode?

Wakabayashi: That’s right. I couldn’t leave out (Norio) Matsumoto and (Atsuko) Inoue. With three people, including myself, I had this crazy idea that we could pull off one episode by ourselves. Nowadays, I don’t know any joe could pull it off, but even in the past, Nakamura drew key animation with three people in Urashiman. (Interviewer Note: Norio Matsumoto is super animator of realist school. He handled many key animations of Wakabayashi’s action sequences. He and Wakabayashi met during Tatsunoko Lab days. The subject of Nakamura is about Future Policeman Urashiman episode 26 (From Neo Tokyo to Hell). In this episode, Takeshi Nakamura handled storyboard, animation supervision, and key animation.

That’s right, isn’t it. He did draw half of the act.

Wakabayashi: Yeah. That’s what I remembered. I thought that I should be able to do that too. It was quite difficult, but I had feeling that I could do it if I tried.

Even in the parts where Matsumoto’ key animation is drawn, there are detailed instructions densely packed in the storyboard’s fight scenes.

Wakabayashi: Everything was pretty much set in the storyboarding stage. When more key animation comes up for check, I just accept them with ‘yep, looks good’ manner. There are parts where I did corrections on expressions, timing correction during editing, or touch up here and there, but I left most of them alone.

On episode 30, Matsumoto’s key animation starts off in the middle of Act A?

Wakabayashi: Nope, it never started in the middle. It’s Act A all around.

So he worked on all of the Act A? Did Matsumoto work on half of episode 71 and 133 as well?

Wakabayashi: He did all of the Act A of episode 71. On episode 133, he worked on various parts in Acts A and B. After that, I, Inoue, and (Tokuyuki) Matsutake filled in whatever was left over.

So Matumoto’s key animations took up the most in episode 133.

Wakabayashi: That’s right.

In short, Matsumoto drew key animation on parts where Naruto shoots off.

Wakabayashi: That is Matsumoto’s. When he came aboard, I felt that I should give him the kind of storyboard he deserved.

Was it Matsumoto who worked on the tree branches that grow out in episode 71?

Wakabayashi: Yep, I know he’s good at it and because he himself was willing to do it (laugh). He knew how to arrange effects well, so I drew storyboard in consideration of bring out the best of it. We only made one episode of Naruto per year though.

You’re right. Just one per year (laughs)

Wakabayashi: Otherwise, the producer will not let you do it. Due to fact that it uses up tons of paper, so it would end up going over budget. We approached (the project)with a ‘it looks like the excitement is dying down, shall we kick it up the notch’ feel. (Translator note: Unlike typical copy paper, professional animation paper costs about 10 Yen/10 Cents per sheet. So using a lot of paper means drawing tons of frames thus costing millions of yen/thousands of dollars spent on extravagant scene(s). One reason why some anime studios disclose how much sheets used on their feature film or TV episode because they want to show off production value)

How long does it take to make one episode?

Wakabayashi: Animating takes about two and a half months. Storyboarding takes six to seven weeks. In order to build an action sequence, it requires considerable blending.

That’s because you were doing never-seen-before action sequences in your Naruto episodes.

Wakabayashi: That’s right. I thought such a situation was my life line. If this is something that other people can’t imitate, then this is probably where I think it should be.

Are such action sequences an accumulation of movies and other things you’ve seen?

Wakabayashi: They’re accumulations, all right. There was a lot of bizarre and strange stuff on air, especially when I was a kid. Simply put, it’s like saying, ‘you’re eccentric’, even though I didn’t knew what that word meant. To be specific, I like quirky things. I certainly have a desire to make up crazy situations.

Maybe I’m being too nosy, but it’s not good for your personal finances when you take six to seven weeks on a stroyboard.

Wakabayashi: You end up being broke. So I took the risk of becoming poor working like that. But I would get an immense satisfaction by doing it. It’s like living for that satisfaction. Once I finish directing episode, I take up a normal job temporarily. So I saved up money a year after, then I spend time on directing an episode afterwards.  That’s gist of it.

Oh, I see.

Wakabayashi: My point is, I wanted to make history. I wanted to leave a mark that says, ‘this kind of stuff is made by this guy’. When it takes time, it’s like trying to prove that nothing like those three episodes have ever been made.

Your episodes are in the same level as Takeshi Nakamura’s Gold Lightan episode.

Wakabayashi: Oh, thank you very much! It’s meaningful to make stuff like that. Lately there are young animators who’ve told me that they entered the anime industry after watching those episodes and I was very happy. I’m happy that I could influence people in such a way.

You have clearly have a different personal stance between doing direction and doing storyboards.

Wakabayashi: I do. When I’m doing storyboards, I try not to cause problems for the production. I draw storyboards by following the scenario and not try not to make it look complicated from a director’s point of view. For direction, I still want to put my personal touch.

Do you have one ideal when doing storyboard, direction, and animation supervision?

Wakabayashi: I do; I cannot do it without a schedule. I can’t pull it off if I don’t get three months. Although such an ideal is impossible with a normal TV series, right? Because a company like Pierrot is generous enough to allow such a method, I think I was able to pull it off.

As you imply, there was no separate schedule for your team or special budget put aside or early draft scripts as other people assumed.

Wakabayashi: There was no such thing. It was just like all the others. About the script, other episodes were already written in advance. Since they’re based from manga, so they’re already written ahead of time. Other people were also under the same situation. It’s just that other people were already working on prior episodes, so that’s why the scenario was in dormancy for a long time. (Translator note: Wakabayashi is implying that he had early start with episode 30.)

Earlier you’ve said that episode 30 was dumped on you by director, however you chose episode 71 and 133 on your own?

Wakabayashi: That’s right. I thought only I can do them myself and I asked to him to let me work on them. Actually, I told him that I also wanted to do the Naruto vs Orochimaru fight, but I was working on the pilot of Guin Saga, so my schedule didn’t allow it. I was thinking of making that sequence as a final finishing touch. But I now I regret that I couldn’t do it.

Do you think you might get another chance to work on “Naruto” in the future?

Wakabayashi: Only if Naruto continues on after the Guin Saga is over. Because I absolutely have not given up on Naruto yet.

[cyberdragoninfinity]

Does anyone else move around in your Swap AU? I can't imagine separating the bird siblings (Ruri and Shun) from each other

No and yes, kinda! Mostly it's just the yuboys and bracelet girls swapping around, while everyone else in each respective dimension stays put (So Yuto is Yoko and Yusho's kid instead of Yuya, and Celina is actually Shay's sister instead of Ruri!)--but we've been playing around with canon bonds still getting made as Yuto and the Lancers make their way through the dimensions. Yuya and Gong still become friends, Zuzu and Sora are buddies still, etc. Shay and Ruri might not be siblings but they do still hit off and become fast friends :3 bird autism to bird autism communication....

The only times we've played around with swapping other characters is that a couple Fusion dimensioners got assigned to different dimensions than in canon on loosely different assignments--Sora got assigned to infiltrate Xyz instead of Dennis, and he cozies up to Yuya half for realsies and half for a laugh (this goes south) (😬). Meanwhile Dennis got sent to Synchro to keep an eye on Yuri (and maybe also assassinate him if it become clear he might be a problem) (Dennis fucked up his assignment pretty bad by Not doing that) (leo akaba your least strongest soldiers are falling in love with the zarc pieces DO SOMETHING!!!!)