#幸 - progress

[tanuki-02]

Progress Report

For 09.16.23 to 07.08.24

I plan on doing these progress reports weekly. Perhaps with the occasional post in between if I feel like I have some huge improvement within that day.

But for this first progrep, I'll try to detail as much as possible my learning from the day I started until now as I write this post.

For a little more info, I'm a 2nd year university student who is already fluent in 2 languages. I'd say my strong point is memorization which is incredibly helpful.

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— GOAL

Initially, I wanted to learn Japanese because of manga. Yes, I know fanlations exist and I can go buy physical English copies. However, English versions are waaaay more expensive and a lot of the manga I read have very slow fanlations or they've stopped translating it completely.

This brings me to my next point; I wanted to learn how to READ Japanese first and foremost. I hardly cared about other skills (but now I do understand their importance to the holistic learning of it all).

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— September '23 to November '23

I went into this language learning journey blindly. I had no idea where to start. But all I knew was that: 1.) Du*lingo is not your best option, 2.) DON'T use romaji to learn, 3.) Start kanji as early as you can. Looking back on it, I feel like these 3 points are important and I still do believe them now.

So, I went ahead and learned hiragana and katakana in less than 2 days. It was quite easy (although, katakana still does make my head spin sometimes).

After that, I went ahead and started with vocabs and kanji. Basically, I searched up vocab & kanji lists for the N5 level. After I found some good practice/list PDFs, I printed them out and used them as my main study material.

What I would do is to memorize them on my own accord (reading over and over again then, checking if I remember—rinse and repeat). I would say this worked out well for the first couple of months. The N5 lists had around 800 vocabs and 60 kanji which were pretty easy to memorize. I had this down in about a month. The following N4 lists had around an additional 800 vocab and 120 kanji. This one took me 2 months, but I'd say the mastery isn't as great as the N5.

With that in mind and the additional 4000 vocabs and 300 kanji that N3 offered, I started to doubt my method. It was then that I really began to search the web of an efficient way to learn this language.

It was then I discovered TheMoeWay and Anki.

‎

— December '23 to June '24

Plenty of people recommended TheMoeWay, so I had to check it out. It has a guide for the first 30 days of learning, but I ignored that because I was way past 30 days at this point. I read everything else and learned about spaced repetition systems (SRS); that's basically what Anki is.

It recommends to start with the N5 Tango Deck first and I did that. I began on December 6, 2023 and finished it on March 28, 2023. To consider it finished, all cards should be matured.

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‎

This deck was VERY easy for me at this point because the prior months of inefficient reviewing that I did. If I'm not mistaken, I did about 100 cards per day which explains why I was so fast.

I had to move on to N4 Tango Deck once I ran out of "New" cards in the first deck. So, at some point, I was doing both decks simultaneously. I began this one on January 17, 2024 and finished it on June 15, 2024.

‎

‎

Admittedly, this deck was a lot tougher than the last one for me at the time. I had to lower the daily card count to 50 (which is still a lot). But I can say after finishing both tango decks—vocabulary, kanji retention, and grammar—all improve drastically. These two decks are super duper helpful in the beginning and I would totally recommend them.

After accomplishing both decks, TheMoeWay says for you to create a mining deck of your own. So, as I was about to go through the N4 Tango Deck, I was deliberating whether or not I'd go through with what is recommended or go for something else.

I think making a mining deck would boost your skill by a huge margin, but I opted for the Core 2k/6k Japanese Vocabulary Deck which I learned from Livakivi on YouTube.

‎

— Current; July '24

I decided to take on the Core 2k/6k while I was doing the N4 Tango (This also explains why I did fewer cards 'cuz I was trying to balance both). I started this one on January 14, 2024 and I'm still getting through it little by little. By that I mean I'm not even halfway done haha.

This is what my progress looks like so far:

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I'm doing 20 new cards per day while it's still summer break from university. Although, I'll definitely have to lower it once the semester starts. Maybe I'll go back to 10 or something.

Anyway, I found that by doing this, my retention for words and how they are spelled in hiragana have improved so much. Sometimes I can easily read random sentences on Japanese websites or books. Moreover, after doing this for some time, I found that my reading got a lot better (duh, you know more words). I can easily pass the N5 and N4 tests on the official JLPT website. The N3 tests... not so much just yet.

This brings me to my next point: I am lacking in grammar and reading comprehension. To remedy this, I've tried immersing a bit through reading news on NHK or random stories on Tadoku Graded Readers (honestly, boring, but I have to). I tried reading manga, but I'd skip so many speech bubbles that it made no sense anyway.

At the moment, I'm doing an Anki deck related to grammar, another one based on Tae Kim's guide, and a third one for listening comprehension (because my listening skills are also doodoo).

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TL;DR

I'd say I'm around the higher N4 level or maybe a very low N3. For my level, I'd say I'm pretty good at reading... everything else not so much. I barely do output so writing and speaking are non-existent skills for me and listening is something I only started now.

[mk-vii-jp]

Work in progress

[3600frames]

Translation for the Off the Hook page of Splatoon 3 Ikasu Art Book

[Squid & Octo Supernova Unit]

A unit consisting of the wicked-tongue rapper and champion of chaos Pearl, and the ditzy and dependable Marina, who loves nothing else in the world more than Pearl, heavy machinery and shoujo manga. They are the ones responsible for the Final Fest held in July of 2019 Mollusc Era that caused the "chaos boom" sweeping over the world. Currently, they are in the midst of a world tour accompanied by the band Damp Socks.

[The One and Only Genius Rapper]

“A world tour? No way, we’re taking this thing to outer SPACE!” is what Pearl suddenly declared before throwing herself into creating a new outfit themed after an space suit. The end result was a haute couture garment made by the hands of a world-renowned designer, and threaded with an abundance of valuable materials that can withstand the vacuum of space. The manufacturing costs ended up totaling to 200 million geso, leading some to call it “a huge waste of money.”

[Sharp-Minded and Girlish DJ]

An Octoling maiden who finds happiness in constantly being swept up by the behavior of the ever free-spirited Pearl. All the while progressing with musical composition for the new frontier that is Damp Socks feat. Off the Hook, she is capable of also managing other affairs in tandem with complete perfection. These include coordinating the overall direction of the world tour, booking the venues, development of ticket sales systems, and lunch box preparation.

JP under the cut:

イカ&タコの超新星ユニット

毒舌ラッパー兼混沌の覇者"ヒメ"と、ヒメセンパイと重機と少女漫画をこよなく愛するしっかり者の天然DJ"イイダ"によるユニット。 軟体世紀2019年7月に行われたファイナルフェスで、世界に混沌ブームを引き起こした張本人たち。 現在はバンド”ビジー・バケーション"を引き連れて、ワールドツアーの真っ最中。

唯一無二の天才ラッパー

「ワールドツアー？　いや、宇宙進出だ！」と突然言い出し、宇宙服をモチーフとした新衣装を作り始めた。宇宙での使用にも耐える貴重な材料をふんだんに活用し、世界的なデザイナーの手によってヒメ専用のオートクチュールが誕生した。その製作費は2億ゲソはくだらないと言われている。

頭脳明晰で乙女チックなDJ

自由気ままなヒメの行動に毎回振り回されつつ、幸せを感じているタコの乙女。新たな展開の”ビジー・バケーションfeat.テンタクルズ”の楽曲制作を進めながら、ワールドツアーの総合演出や会場のブッキング、チッケト販売システムの開発、お弁当の手配など、あらゆる業務を平行しながら完璧にこなしている。

[chlorinecake]

🎙️ star-crossed lovers 【 薄幸な恋人 】 ⛦

summ✩ry ⭑⭒⭑ As rehearsals and promotions for your big collab stage with Enhypen become progressively more intense, you and Niki face challenges that might effect your secret relationship and standing with the company...

p✩iring ⭑⭒⭑ idol!niki x popstar!reader PREVIOUSLY

cont✩ins ⭑⭒⭑ band au, fluff, secret romance, kissing + a slightly heated make-out scene, mild bullying, LOTS of drama, reader is younger than Niki, 3.6k words

It felt strange having your hair, makeup, and clothes managed by someone else, especially in such a meticulous way.

Today was the big day of the Riot Grrlz x Enhypen fan meeting that Hybe was hosting in honor of your upcoming collaboration stage, the event acting as some sort of promotional.

The fashion theme for the day, as decided by the likes of an online poll distributed by Enhypen's Instagram account, was 'Schoolgirl / Schoolboy,' which meant everyone would be dressed in plaid neck ties and neatly-ironed button-down blazers.

“This'll have to do,” murmured one of the makeup artist's on duty, simply dusting you with a bit of blush, some gloss, and shimmery eye shadow because they couldn't find a foundation shade that matched your skin color.

“I can't find my contact solution!” Serenity exclaimed frantically in the dressing studio, searching through her sparkly teal duffle bag for the fifth time this hour.

Of course none of you were willing to assist her on the aimless contact solution hunt, especially not with the way she verbally harassed the makeup crew for not "lining her eyes right."

“Just let it go, Ren,” Sunghoon said with an annoyed sigh, “the stylists are making all of us wear glasses for the concept today anyways...”

“Okay first of all, don't call me by my nickname. Second, it's not my vision I'm worried about, but my image,” she clarified matter-of-factly, “I wanna impress the Korean fans with a big and bright boba eye moment...”

“You have sooo many problems,” Jade added with a similar irritation, rolling her eyes at the diva before a hairstylist ran over to clip in another track of fake hair.

“Tell me about it,” Serenity huffed despairingly, sticking her arms out like a scarecrow as the fashion crew adjusted the belt around her waist.

“Let's just try and maintain a good mood before the meeting guys,” you started optimistically amongst the tension, “the fans might pick up on our bad energy if we all show up pouting like this...”

“Easy for you to say,” Niki replied teasingly, “you slept like a baby last night… meanwhile, you kept me up with your insistent snoring…”

“Did not,” you whined in protest, looking back at his attractively playful expression, “it’s not my fault that the stories you tell in your groggy bedtime voice are so relaxing.”

Niki meant to reply but was rudely interrupted by Serenity’s stinky attitude, “Aww, late night bonding moment, I see? Hope a little ‘story time’ was as far as it got for you two lovebirds...”

You and Niki shook your heads in unison at her senseless comment, the rest of Enhypen and your band mates soon rushing out of the dressing room and outside to the awaiting limousine as the schedule manager directed.

“Make sure you have everything you need, guys! We’re running a bit behind on time and can’t afford any more set-backs,” exclaimed a tall, broad man in athletic wear, a black Hybe hat topping off his look.

“Got it, sir,” Jungwon replied politely, double-checking his leather cross-body bag before stepping into the vehicle, the rest of you following after him.

You didn’t expect to see Miss Kim in the front seat with the chauffeur, but you greeted her nonetheless.

“Morning, Miss Kim!,” You and Hearin started enthusiastically.

“Morning, Riot Grrlz,” she returned while not looking at any of you, writing hasty yet neat notes down on her clipboard, “I’ll be bold and assume you ladies have never attended any sort of fan event, correct?”

“Y-yes, that is correct,” Jade answered before you, crossing her legs in her seat, “this’ll be our very first experience today…”

“Oh, that’s cool for you then, isn’t it? Don’t worry if you don’t know what to say or do, by the way... just copy us,” you heard Heeseung encourage somewhere behind you, but your mind was more focused on the way Niki’s hand accidentally brushed against yours while you two glared out of the same window...

Accidentally… maybe…

“I was just getting around to that, Heeseung,” Miss Kim continued after clearing her coffee-stained throat, “Korean fans as a whole are pretty cutthroat, and whether you’re a foreigner or not, they expect you to present yourself a certain way…”

“Perfect,” Sunoo thought out loud, “they expect you to be perfect…”

“That’s just the way this idol life goes, I'm afraid,” Jungwon sighed from his seat, not empathetically, but in a realistic sense.

“Either way, you girls should be safe to mirror whatever the boys are doing if you ever feel confused…” Miss Kim trailed off, the limo being just a few feet from reaching the fan meeting center, “Good luck today, you all.”

▶︎ ၊၊||၊|။||||။‌‌‌‌‌၊| • • •

Things were turning out surprisingly smooth at the event, to say the least.

Needless to mention, you and Niki stayed pretty close the entire time, and the fans seemed to be amused by your attempt at famous duo heart poses with him.

“Just extend your hand like this,” he instructed while giggling, watching as your overhead heart ended up looking more like an oval to the audience.

Serenity was received as a fan favorite, too, her “boba eye” look captivating the male attendees while others were more entertained in her beginner Korean skills.

“Hwaiting,” she exclaimed confidently before the fans one too many times for your tolerance, Sunghoon’s face clearly showing just how much he was enjoying not being the cringiest person in the room for once.

Or, at least that was until an older fan requested that he and Sunoo sing and dance to the infamous aeygo Ottoke song for good luck at the show tomorrow.

“The things we do for engene,” the two boys collectively thought to themselves while fastening coquette bunny ears atop their heads, hoping that their enthusiasm would override the embarrassment.

It was all just such a culture shock for you and your group.

“Uhhh, a little help here?” Haerin worriedly called out to Jake as a particularly excited Korean fan approached her with a lot to say that she could barely understand.

“Oh- allow me,” Jake offered between the language barrier, translating to Haerin what the fan was trying to tell her.

“She thinks I’m a what now?”

“A K-pop Idol, mostly because of your trendy look today,” Jungwon giggled warmly, “the prophesied eighth member of Enhypen, in fact...”

Haerin laughed with both embarrassment and flattery, trying her best to explain to the young fan that she was a member of the Riot Grrlz and Riot Grrlz only.

Interactive activities continued just as well after this, the event nearing its end as you and Niki did a few TikTok dance challenges for the fans on stage.

Dance challenges that you had practiced with him in eery hours of the night, or whenever you two were left alone in the dance studio.

That, alongside other things too… like stealing sweet kisses here and there… or nearly melting while staring into each others love struck eyes—

“____, right?” A fan asked, approaching you with a blue marker and square of paper.

“Yes, that’s me. Nice to meet you,” you returned, keeping eye contact with her, despite the dark shades she wore.

“Nice to meet you, too! I have so many questions to ask you about what it’s like working with Enhypen!… and I really like your hair, too! The highlights look really nice with your outfit hehe… ALSO, I've been listening to a lot of your groups songs recently, and my favorite has to be the main track from your most recent album, it’s so unique!…” the fans voice eventually trailed off shyly.

“Oh my goodness, sorry for rambling!! Uhmmm, can I get your autograph by any chance?”

“Aww, thank you,” you smiled brightly, “and it’s okay! I find it cute how interested you are in my experience and music…”

Your hand reached out to grab the marker from her grasp, your body leaning forward slightly as you signed your name on the photo, resting your weight on the desk before you.

So lost in the moment, you didn’t even realize that the photo you had just signed was one of you and Niki hanging out just outside of Yeouido Park the other night.

It was impossible to hold back the gasp that escaped your throat at the realization, your finger loosing its grip around the marker as your stunned eyes met her knowing ones.

“Look like you’ve seen a ghost,” she chuckled in a facetiously sweet tone, you and her hands fighting over the now autographed-polaroid before your grip overthrew hers.

“Where did you get that—”

“Your secret’s safe with me, alright?” She interrupted with a sharp whisper, “So long as you work on distancing yourself from Niki moving forward…”

You blinked in feigned confusion at her words, “I don’t know what you’re talking about, we’re just colleagues—”

“And he’s an idol,” she cut in again, “idols don’t belong to silly American girls like you… you don’t even belong in our world…”

At this point, you're certain she could see how upset you were with her, and you didn't even care to hide it. ���Everyone has welcomed me here, expect for you… and to what gain? I’m here with my band solely for work purposes, and I can assure you there is nothing you have to worry about concerning my professionalism.”

Your strong reply seemed to have rubbed her the wrong way, one of her hands fastening the bag over her shoulder while the other adjusted the glasses sitting at her nose.

“Thank you for your time,” she nearly growled at you, that same phony smile plastered to her lips before she hurriedly walked away, disappearing into the crowd of fans.

You let out a breath that you didn't even know you'd been holding, trying to calm yourself down before anyone noticed the silent commotion that had occurred on your side of the meeting booth.

All you could do was hope that this was the only copy or evidence of you and Niki hanging out that night as you folded the paper into a small square, tucking it under your sleeve in a way that no one would notice.

Above all though, you were just glad that the event was coming to an end soon, a few on-set staff members already helping to put away some stage props, meanwhile Sunoo, Heeseung, and Jade helped themselves to bringing along some gifts from fans.

“Hey... uhm, Heeseung? Can I-”

“Yes, Jade,” Heeseung answered with a giggle, “you can have all of my kitty plush gifts...”

▶︎ ၊၊||၊|။||||။‌‌‌‌‌၊| • • •

The limo ride back to the HYBE building was quiet, the sole thought roaming in the back of your mind being that one fan's cruel words…

…𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘈𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶… 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥...

It wasn’t like you were trying to infiltrate the world of K-pop.

You and your group were simply expanding your collab horizons upon being invited, and it seriously boggled you how anyone would have a problem with that—

“Knock knock,” Niki said with a smile in his voice from behind the door to your private backstage dressing room, waiting for your cue that it was safe for him to come in.

“You can come in, Niki,” you replied softly, standing in front of the body length wall mirror while struggling to fix your hair into a suitable style for the stage practice in a few minutes.

“Hi,” you greeted again once he reached you, watching as his eyes traced your reflection, almost immediately picking up on your nervous demeanor.

“You did great today, ____, y’know that?” He started with a low voice, guiding your stressed hands away from your head and resting them at your sides.

“Niki, I have to get ready—”

“And you already look more than prepared,” he encouraged, securing his hands around your waist before leaving a kiss below your ear, “gorgeous, even...”

“Thanks,” you answered shyly, somehow already feeling a bit better about things now that he was near you.

“So. Are you gonna tell me what’s got you upset or are we gonna make this a guessing game?” He teased, making you chuckle a bit as his attempt to cheer you up.

Your eyes fell to the floor, his grip on you loosening as a little sigh escaped your freshly glossed lips.

“A fan…,” you began quietly, “at the meeting today… she asked me to sign this photo.”

Reaching into your bra, you pulled out the mysterious square photo and watched with a pout as Niki carefully unfolded it from each corner.

“I… I don’t understand…” he stuttered, eyes glazing over the sight of you and him holding hands at the firework show that night.

“I know, it’s my fault that—”

“No…,” he interrupted your words before meeting your guilt-ridden eyes, “I don’t understand why you’re letting this get to you…”

“Excuse me?” You asked with a confused expression, “if something like this gets out, it could ruin both of our careers, y’know?”

“Sure,” he responded nonchalantly with a shrug, “but I couldn’t care less about some jealous sasaeng’s creepy little photo fest… by now, it’s gonna take a lot more than an innocent, harmless photo of us hanging out to make me question our status in this field.”

“You never take anything seriously, Nishimura,” you smiled with a sigh, shaking your head as you watched his fingers tear the photo to pieces.

“Well you’re definitely an exception to that trait of mine,” he smirked, tucking the torn shreds of paper into his back pocket before finding your face in his hands, placing a tender kiss to your left cheek.

“How sweet of you to say,” you whispered softly, grabbing the neckline of his shirt and pulling him closer to your height, “now how about you kiss me properly this time?”

He hummed at your teasing tone, sharp features softening as he tilted his head, sealing the space between you and him with the sweet kiss you’d been waiting for.

“I’ll never get tired of this,” Niki sighed against your lips, his right hand removing the rubber band securing your ponytail so his fingers could roam freely through your curls.

Things were escalating pretty quickly now, both of your breaths sounding more labored with each second as you stumbled backwards onto the desk, his energy leading the kiss as he remained on top of you.

It was almost more than you could handle, his hands roaming at your sides before your eyes barely fluttered open, the sight of his slightly blushed button-nose making you feel like melting on the spot.

Thats when you realized his pink hue was a result of two reasons: (1) The way your hands shyly clung to his shoulders right now, and (2) the shadow of footsteps peeking behind your dressing room door.

Knock, knock, knock.

“Hello? Miss ____, its Kim... Are you decent?”

“Erm, one second!” You responded in an obvious frantic.

Niki helped you get up from the vanity table, kneeling down quickly to hide himself under the it as the stern lady made her way into the room anyway.

“Sorry to intrude,” she began abruptly, not even taking note of your currently disheveled hair and flushed expression, “but I’ve unfortunately been appointed as the bearer of bad news for today…”

“Oh... uhm, w- what is it, is everyone alright?” You asked with a concerned tone, trying to take your mind off the fact that a Niki stained with the glimmer of your peach flavored lipgloss all over his mouth was literally under your desk right now, a mere two feet away from Miss Kim’s leather boots.

“For the most part, yes… but it concerns one of your band mates… Serenity, specifically… Since you are the leader of your group, I found it humble to have at least this much respect to tell you first in private.”

You let out a breath, closing your eyes for a moment before opening them back up, restoring your usually confident aura and making eye contact with the woman.

“Thank you, Miss Kim… I’m listening…”

▶︎ ၊၊||၊|။||||။‌‌‌‌‌၊| • • •

The sounds of shoes rhythmically scuffing, mics going in and out of focus, and layered fits of heavy breathing filled your ears for the next two hours.

Design tech, stage directors, and performers alike were giving it their all to perfect things before the big show coming up.

You paced around the shiny stage, a sweat rag secured lazily around your neck as you and the Enhypen members just got through with rehearsing the main choreo at the performing arena for the first time.

Everyone except Jay and Jade that is, who were still busy with working on their guitar duet for the intro show backstage with the music writers.

“I have no idea how you can still see after being in front of these bright stage lights all the time,” you huffed out tiredly, glancing at Sunoo who only shrugged while taking a few gulps from his grey water bottle.

“I’m not too sure either, but for the lot of us, it’s just something you have to get used to,” he tried warmly before letting himself fall on the ground, limbs spread out like an exhausted snowman as sweat trickled down his forehead.

“Here, lemme show you a little trick I like to use,” Niki offered with a smile while approaching you from behind, his larger frame casting a shadow before you.

“Look down there,” he started, guiding your waist with one hand as he pointed ahead of you with the other, “do you see the tech crew down there?”

You looked to where his finger was pointing, eyes being met with the sight of workers who sat in reclining chairs while others drank some coffee, a few sporadic employees carrying clipboards with stacks of paper, giving out orders to their fellow floor members.

“Yeah, I see them,” you answered, making Niki laugh slightly for reasons you didn’t fully understand.

“That means you’re too close then,” he replied, still holding your waist as he guided you to take a few steps back, which ended up being more steps for you given the leg length differences.

“There’s a rule of thumb that if you can see the audience, they can’t see you… are the lights still bothering you now?”

“Not as much, actually,” you said, turning to face him as he still held you close, everything in your body fighting not to kiss him in this moment given the way he looked back at you, “thanks again…”

“Anytime,” he smirked smuggly, “but uhhh, I think people might be looking at us now—”

“Oh,” you giggled shyly, backing a few inches away from him.

“Ahem,” a nagging voice cleared from beside you two, breaking the wholesome presence of the moment.

“Do you guys think you’re invisible or something?” Serenity asked, crossing her arms while staring the both of you up.

“Uhm…. No?” Niki answered for you, furrowing his eyes at the blue-eyed diva.

“Then why’re you just standing there? You’re blocking my light…”

You let out a scoff at her words, feeling baffled at the thought of how insecure girls like her could have such egotistical tendencies.

“Sorry, Serenity…,” you said half-heartedly, “didn’t mean to disturb your… solo mid-break practice session...”

“Really appreciate it, leader lady,” she replied sarcastically, very intentionally bumping into your shoulder as she walked past you before stopping in her tracks, a loose copy of the stage schedule getting caught under her baby pink sneakers.

She leaned down to pick it up, examining the text before her eyes stumbled over a line of bolded words. All of this was for reasons she didn’t understand, but either way, would soon resent.

“Ugh?!!” She exclaimed with a confused scoff, “HYBE is kicking me from the show??”

Your eyes widened at her words, the furious, confused, and torn look on her face doing nothing but make Niki smirk to himself, “Serenity, I can explain—���

“And you knew about this, didn’t you?” She accused with balled fists, looking between your nervous face and Niki’s shamelessly proud one.

“I just found out today, okay? But Miss Kim specifically instructed me not to say anything about until she revealed it to you herself after practice,” you clarified with a shaky voice.

“Please,” she said with a scoff, “And what’s with the face, Nishimura Nimrod? Huh!? Your little girlfriend told you before she told me, her own band mat—”

“I didnt tell him anything!” You retorted with a slightly raised voice, cracking with nerves you couldn't keep buried anymore.

You never liked being in the hot seat unless you were sitting there with Niki, thanks to his ability to always maintain his cool under pressure...

However, for some reason, even with him next to you right now, you still felt like hurling yourself to the ground.

“You had to have told me him something, so just stop with your insistent lies, ____,” Serenity spat, poking a finger in the center of your chest. Hard.

“You couldn’t wait to get rid of me, its been all over your rotten little face ever since we got here… You’re so jealous of me and it’s honestly depressing at this point…”

Oh Serenity, you thought in your mind, if only you knew this was all brought on by yourself…

You’d had enough of her ignorant speech, holding a fierce eye contact with her while trying to conceal the tears forming behind your eyes.

The sadness growing in your heart…

“None of this was my decision, Ren, so if you have a bone to pick with someone, try taking it up with Miss Kim herself,” you said firmly, walking back a few steps in case she tried touching you again, “I'm sure she'd be more than happy to inform you on her reasons for exiling you from the main activities…”

“What’s going on you guys?” Haerin asked timidly in the midst of the chaos, having just come back from washing up in the restroom.

Serenity practically burned holes in your face with her venomous glare before turning sharply on her heel, footsteps loud and startling as she marched off the stage, murmuring a string of curses under her breath.

“Soooo,” Sunghoon started with a curious accent, “I’m usually not the best at comprehending things, but I’m assuming that whatever just happened was a lot more serious than the usual Riot Grrlz drama, correct?”

“Yeah, what's the big deal ____?,” Jade asked alongside Jake, who gave your shoulder a comforting shake.

You fought with everything in your body to not to let any tears fall...

Because in this moment, it just felt right to cry, but at the same time, was it really worth appearing weak in front of everyone?

Everyone who counted on you to remain strong?

You exhaled with a deep breath, wiping the pricks of moisture from your eyes before speaking, “Serenity won’t be performing with us for the special stage anymore… only the ending song.”

A cacophony of gasps filled the room at your words, Jungwon having picked up the loose schedule copy to analyze it for himself, the bolded words reading:

>> SERENITY TAYLOR Authorized to be PULLED from Furthering Her Performance Activities in Sight of Behavioral Decency Violations Under HYBE's Collaboration and Code of Conduct Standards

“Will she be allowed to attend the award show at least,” Heeseung inquired, not out of empathy, but curiosity as all of this was unfolding pretty fast.

“Perhaps, but for now, we can rest on the thought that we’ll have one less problem while preparing from here on out,” you answered, feeling a large hand take your hand in theirs before giving it a gentle squeeze.

Niki.

“Either way, the show must go on you guys,” he said with a deep voice, the faintest smile being on his face as he looked back at you, dark eyes sparkling with sincerity.

The stage lights flickered from ahead and above you, a key indicator that the radio would be picking up again soon, playing the instrumental to your practice track.

“Mic check everyone and it’s back to rehearsals in five,” yelled out a staff member from below the stage, the ten of you now lining up in formation while adjusting your headsets around your ears.

There was only one thought that remained in your head as the choreographer hopped up center stage to explain how the performance would accommodate for Serenity's sudden absence:

The show must go on.

🎙️For my baby, @microwvdstrawb3rri3s 💕 This is episode 3 for ya ~ Thanks for being so patient with me :3

⛦ TAGS: @squoxle @nikisvanillaccola @yourmomscuntis2tighy @nikimeows @kimjiho1 @nikipedia07 @nishimuradaniel @ashgonedash @laurradoesloveu @caithefly @samhomo @rikikiynikilcykiki @3ngene--frvr @illymontyshit @filmofhybe @whoslug @nikiiitties

🎙️ Feel free to check out more fun reads on the pinned post at my home page ~

[pikahlua]

MHA Chapter 395 spoilers translations

This week’s initial tentative super rough/literal translations under the cut.

tagline 1 No.395 幸せの上に　　堀越耕平 ナンバー395 しあわせのうえに　　ほりこしこうへい NANBAA 395 shiawase no ue ni   Horikoshi Kouhei No. 395 Above happiness  Kouhei Horikoshi (Note: There are many ways to potentially translate this title. “Ue” means top, above, beyond, before, regarding, because of, and many other similar things. I take this title to either mean there’s something more important than the speaker’s happiness or the speaker is doing something because of their happiness.)

tagline 2 トゥワイスが消え… トゥワイスがきえ… TUWAISU ga kie... The Twices vanish...

1 だよな… da yo na... “That’s right...”

2 分倍河原は……いいやつだったもんな… ぶばいがわらは……いいやつだったもんな… Bubaigawara wa......ii yatsu datta mon na... “Bubaigawara...was a good guy...”

3 トガヒミコ… TOGA HIMIKO... “Toga Himiko...”

4 好きなものになりたくて握った筈のナイフを すきなものになりたくてにぎったはずのナイフを suki na mono ni naritakute nigitta hazu no NAIFU wo The knife I should have gripped because I wanted to become someone I like

5 怒りと憎しみで握っていました。 いかりとにくしみでにぎっていました。 ikari to nikushimi de nigitte imashita. I gripped with rage and hatred.

1-2 私が生きやすい世界にする為に わたしがいきやすいせかいにするために watashi ga iki yasui sekai ni suru tame ni For the sake of making a world easy for me to live in

1 今になって"個性"を伴った「変身」の負担が いまになって"こせい"をともなった「へんしん」のふたんが ima ni natte “kosei” wo tomonatta 「henshin」 no butan ga The burden of Transform now after the accompanying [other] quirks...

2 痛い いたい itai “It hurts.”

3 "伝わるゼロ・グラビティ"の "つたわるゼロ・グラビティ"の “tsutawaru  ZERO GURABITI” no “The transmitted Zero Gravity is”

4 巻き添えになったヒーロー達も軟着地させてる… まきぞえになったヒーローたちもなんちゃくちさせてる… makizoe ni natta HIIROO-tachi mo nanchakuchi saseteru... “letting even the heroes who became involved land softly...”

5 人を介した分解除も緩やかに進行するのね… ひとをかいしたぶんかいじょもゆるやかにしんこうするのね… hito wo kai shita bun kaijo mo yuruyaka ni shinkou suru no ne... “Even your Release is progressing gently out of concern for people, huh...”

6 お茶子ちゃん… おちゃこちゃん… Ochako-chan... “Ochako-chan...”

7 結局 けっきょく kekkyoku “In the end,”

8 どこまでいっても落としたりはしないのね どこまでいってもおとしたりはしないのね doko made ittemo otoshitari wa shinai no ne “no matter what you do, you won’t drop anyone.” (Note: This is the same phrasing as the line about Izuku being a nerd no matter what in chapter 348. Literally, the first part of the phrase means “no matter where you go,” but the idiom in English would translate to “no matter what you do.”)

9 寒い…血が出すぎた　頭と体がつながってないみたいに…全く動けない… さむい…ちがですぎた　あたまとからだがつながってないみたいに…まったくうごけない… samui...chi ga de sugita   atama to karada ga tsunagattenai mitai ni...mattaku ugokenai... I’m cold...I bled too much. It’s like my head and body aren’t connected...I can’t move at all...

10 動かなきゃいけないのに…！まだ…！ うごかなきゃいけないのに…！まだ…！ ugokanakya ikenai noni...! mada...! But I have to move...! I still...!

1 血なんて一生くれてやる ちなんていっしょうくれてやる chi nante isshou kurete yaru I’ll give you my blood for the rest of my life!

2 …カァイイ？ ...KAAII? ...I’m cute?

3-4 あなたの笑顔が素敵だと伝えなきゃと思ったの あなたのえがおがすてきだとつたえなきゃとおもったの anata no egao ga suteki da to tsutaenakya to omotta no I thought I must tell you that your smile is lovely.

5 世界一 せかいいち sekai ichi The cutest in the world.

(Note: The sound effects are of Ochako gasping for air and her teeth chattering from cold.)

1 致死量の血が出てる ちしりょうのちがでてる chishiryou no chi ga deteru “You’re losing a lethal amount of blood.”

2 私が刺した後もあれだけ動いてたから… わたしがさしたあともあれだけうごいてたから… watashi ga sashita ato mo are dake ugoiteta kara... “Because you were still moving that much even after I stabbed you...”

3 お茶子ちゃん おちゃこちゃん Ochako-chan “Ochako-chan,”

4 敵連合は ヴィランれんごうは VIRAN rengou wa “the League of Villains

5 全部ぶっ壊すの ぜんぶぶっこわすの zenbu bukkowasu no “will smash everything,

6 壊れた先にあるのは こわれたさきにあるのは kowareta saki ni aru no wa “What lies beyond the destruction is”

7 きっと… kitto... “surely...”

8 私が生きやすい世界 わたしがいきやすいせかい watashi ga iki yasui sekai “a world where I can live easily.”

(Note: There’s a sound effect “chiu” present for Himiko sucking up Ochako’s blood.)

1 でも demo “But”

2 お茶子ちゃんが言ってくれた事嬉しかった おちゃこちゃんがゆってくれたことうれしかった Ochako-chan ga yutte kureta koto ureshikatta “I was happy about what you told me, Ochako-chan.”

3 生存競争って私言ったけど… せいぞんきょうそうってわたしゆったけど… seizon kyousou tte watashi yutta kedo... “I said this was a competition for survival, but...”

4 お茶子ちゃんがいなくなるの"だけ"は おちゃこちゃんがいなくなるの"だけ"は Ochako-chan ga inakunaru no “dake” wa “That only Ochako-chan will go away,”

5 やっぱり嫌 やっぱりや yappari ya “I absolutely hate it.” (Note: To be clear, I think she’s saying that despite this being a competition for survival, she hates this result where only Ochako is the one who dies.)

1-3 この気持ちは本当だから このきもちはほんとうだから kono kimochi wa hontou dakara “Because this feeling is genuine,”

3-4 私の血全部あげる わたしのちぜんぶあげる watashi no chi zenbu ageru “I will give all my blood to you.”

1 ーー…暖かい ーー…あたたかい --...atatakai --...warm

2 でも…ダメだ…！そんなことしたら demo...DAME da...! sonna koto shitara But...you can’t...! If you do something like that...

3 前に死にかけた時 まえにしにかけたとき mae ni shi ni kakata toki “Before, when I almost died,

4 仁くんがこうやって助けてくれた じんくんがこうやってたすけてくれた Jin-kun ga kou yatte tsukete kureta “Jin-kun helped me like this.”

5 仁くんの"個性"はもう無いから私がお茶子ちゃんになる じんくんの"こせい"はもうないからわたしがおちゃこちゃんになる Jin-kun no “kosei” wa mou nai kara watashi ga Ochako-chan ni naru “Since Jin-kun’s quirk is gone, I will become Ochako-chan.”

6 他者の"個性"が使える以上血もその人そのものになる ひとの"こせい"がつかえるいじょうちもそのひとそのものになる hito (kanji: tasha) no “kosei” ga tsukaeru ijou chi mo sono hito sono mono ni naru “Even more than being able to use someone else’s quirk, my blood will become [the same as] that person’s blood.”

7 ダ… DA... “You...”

8 メ… ME... “can’t...”

9 ……捕まえたら… ……つかまえたら… ......tsukamaetara... “......If you caught me...”

10 私が死ぬまで血を届けに会いに来るつもりだったの？ わたしがしぬまでちをとどけにあいにくるつもりだったの？ watashi ga shinu made chi wo todoke ni ai ni kuru tsumori datta no? “were you planning to come visit me to deliver your blood until I died?”

small text 傷口閉じるよ きずぐちとじるよ kuzuguchi tojiru yo “I’ll close the gash.”

11 お茶子ちゃんは…ただ"敵"を捕まえるだけでよかったのに おちゃこちゃんは…ただ"ヴィラン"をつかまえるだけでよかったのに Ochako-chan wa...tada “VIRAN” wo tsukamaeru dake de yokatta noni “Ochako-chan, even though it would have been fine to just capture the villain,”

12 ただ異常者を排除するだけでよかったのに ただいじょうしゃをはいじょするだけでよかったのに tada ijousha wo haijo suru dake de yokatta noni “even though it would have been fine to just eliminate the the freak,”

13 ヒーローらしく正しい事をするだけでよかったのに ヒーローらしくただしいことをするだけでよかったのに HIIROO rashiku tadashii koto wo suru dake de yokatta noni “even though it would have been fine to just do the correct thing like a hero would,”

1 なのにさ nanoni sa “even so,”

2 なのに余計な事"考えて"… なのによけいなこと"かんがえて"… nanoni yokei na koto “kangaete”... “you nevertheless think about unnecessary things...”

3-4 お友だちいっぱい傷つけて刺してきた相手をさ… おともだちいっぱいきずつけてさしてきたあいてをさ… otomodachi ippai kizutsukete sashite kita aite wo sa... “about the person who hurt and stabbed so many of your friends...”

5 変だね へんだね hen da ne “that’s weird,”

6 お茶子ちゃん おちゃこちゃん Ochako-chan “Ochako-chan.”

7 あな…た…こそ…！ ana...ta...koso...! “You...are...!” (Note: This is a phrase that essentially means “Speak for yourself!”)

8 こんな…！ konna...! “Something like this...!”

9 私は"好き"に生きるの わたしは"すき"にいきるの watashi wa “suki” ni ikiru no “I like how I ‘like’.”

10 だから捕まってあげられない だからつかまってあげられない dakara tsukamatte agerarenai “That’s why I won’t let [anyone] capture me.”

11 お茶子ちゃんの「捕まえる」と一緒…でも おちゃこちゃんの「つかまえる」といっしょ…でも Ochako-chan no 「tsukamaeru」 to issho...demo “That includes your [version of] capture, Ochako-chan...but”

12 刺してごめんね さしてごめんね sashite gomen ne “I’m sorry for stabbing you.”

13 怒鳴ってごめんね どなってごめんね donatte gomen ne “I’m sorry for yelling at you.”

14 本当よ ほんとうよ hontou yo “Really.”

1 …燈矢くんが …とうやくんが ...Touya-kun ga “...Touya-kun”

2 お家燃やしてくれたんだ おうちもやしてくれたんだ ouchi moyashite kuretanda “set my home on fire for me.”

3 嫌な事が詰まった普通のお家 いやなことがつまったふつうのおうち iya na koto ga tsumatta futsuu no ouchi “My ordinary home full of horrible things.”

4 なかった事にしてくれたの なかったことにしてくれたの nakatta koto ni shite kureta no “He let me pretend like nothing ever happened.”

5 嬉しかった うれしかった ureshikatta “I was happy.”

6 でも…なくなっても心には残るの でも…なくなってもこころにはのこるの demo...nakunattemo kokoro ni wa nokoru no “But...even if it’s gone, it will remain in my heart.”

7 お茶子ちゃんはなかった事にしなかった おちゃこちゃんはなかったことにしなかった Ochako-chan wa nakatta koto ni shinakatta “Ochako-chan, you didn’t pretend like nothing ever happened.”

8 それは痛くて辛いけど それはいたくてつらいけど sore wa itakute tsurai kedo “That was painful and harsh, but”

9 触れられた時ーーー ふれられたときーーー furerareta toki--- “when you touched me---”

10 心がワクッて こころがワクッて kokoro ga WAKU tte “my heart got excited”

11 戦いは避けられなくても たたかいは��けられなくても tatakai wa sakerarenakutemo Even if this battle is unavoidable,

12 その奥にあるものを無視はしたくない そのおくにあるものをむしはしたくない sono oku ni aru mono wo mushi wa shitakunai I don’t want to ignore what’s behind it.

13 軽くなったから かるくなったから karukunatta kara “because you made it lighter.”

1 ありがとうねえお茶子ちゃん ありがとうねえおちゃこちゃん arigatou nee Ochako-chan “Thank you, Ochako-chan.”

2 嬉しかったよ うれしかったよ ureshikatta yo “I was happy.”

3 本当に嬉しかったのお茶子ちゃん ほんとうにうれしかったのおちゃこちゃん hontou ni ureshikatta no Ochako-chan “I was really happy, Ochako-chan.”

4 その人そのものになりたくて そのひとそのものになりたくて sono hito sono mono ni naritakute I wanted to become many people,

5-6 羨ましくて愛しくて血を飲み干してきた うらやましくていとしくてちをのみほしてきた urayamashikute itoshikute chi wo nomihoshite kita so I drank up the blood of those I envied, those I cherished.

1-3 ヒミ…コ…ちゃ… HIMI...KO...cha... “Himi...ko...-cha...”

4-5 はぁい haai “Ye-...ep!”

6 もしも moshimo If only

7 もっと早くに識れたなら もっとはやくにしれたなら motto hayaku ni shireta nara I had figured it out sooner,

8 血を飲み干したくなるのと同じくらい ちをのみほしたくなるのとおなじくらい chi wo nomihoshitaku naru no to onaji kurai then as much as I want to drink up the blood,

9 血をあげたくなるような ちをあげたくなるような chi wo agetaku naru you na it would have made me want to give blood.

10-11 そんな"好き"に出会えていたら そんな"すき"にであえていたら sonna “suki” ni deaete itara If I was able to meet [someone I] ‘liked’ like that,

12 世界はもっと生きやすかったかな せかいはもっといきやすかったかな sekai wa motto iki yasukatta ka na I wonder if the world would have been easier to live in.

1 それでも soredemo Nevertheless,

tagline 想い伝えて… おもいつたえて… omoi tsutaete... Conveying thoughts...

2 私はトガヒミコ わたしはトガヒミコ watashi wa TOGA HIMIKO I am Himiko Toga.

3 好きに生きて好きに生きた すきにいきてすきにいきた suki ni ikite suki ni ikita I live the way I like. I lived the way I liked.

4 世界一笑顔がカァイイ せかいいちえがおがカァイイ sekai ichi egao ga KAAII My smile is the cutest in the world.

5 普通の女の子！ ふつうのおんなのこ！ futsuu no onna no ko! I’m an ordinary girl!

[doctorbunny]

(Part 2) MILGRAM x AVOIT bluetooth earphones collab: Haruka and Yuno voice lines

[Brief context: On 28th December 2023 a crossover was announced for bluetooth earphones featuring original voicelines from MILGRAM characters. Website]

PRISON.001 [I think they meant prisoner but they wrote 'Prison' so....] Haruka Sakurai Vertical text = 人を不幸にすることだけは得意なんです = I've only ever been good at bringing misfortune to others [From his third intro voice line]

Voice Guidance: 電源を入れます...＝Power switched on... 電源を切りますね…＝Power's turned off... あ、接続成功したんですね…＝ah- the connection was successful... 接続解除します…＝Connection ended... ペアリング？中らしいです…＝Pair-ing? Seems to be in progress... ペアリング、成功しました＝The pairing, was successful ペアリング失敗....ごめんなさい…＝Pairing failed.... I'm sorry.... あ、バッテリーありません…＝Ah- there's no battery left... ノイズキャンセリング、オン＝Noise cancelling, On アンビエントマイク、オン＝ Ambient Mic, On ノーマルモード＝Normal Mode

Random Voice: ばかでごめんなさい＝I'm sorry for being an idiot 看守さん、いや、なんでもないです＝Guard-san, -wait no, its nothing な、何、聴いてるですか＝W-what, are you listening to? [as in music] ア、アマネちゃん....ごめんなさい…＝A-Amane-chan... I'm sorry.... ムウさんは、お母さんなんです＝Muu-san is, definitely my mother ミ、ミコトさんは、いい人ですよ＝Mi-Mikoto-san is, a good person y'know ….どうしました？僕、なにか変ですか？= ....Is something wrong? Is there something strange about, me? ミルグラム、とても楽しいです。＝ MILGRAM, is really fun.

PRISON.002 Yuno Kashiki Vertical text = そうだ、千円で膝枕してあげるよ = I know! I’ll give you a lap pillow for 1000 yen! [from her third introductory voice line]

Voice Guidance: 電源を入れるよ＝Powering on 電源を切るよ～＝Powering off~ やったね、リンク成功＝Yippee! Linked successfully リンク外したよ＝Link removed 繋げてるからちょっと待ってね＝Connecting, so wait a sec ちゃーんと繋がったよ＝Fu~lly Connected おっとと、繋がらなかったみたい＝Suddenly, its like it disconnected ほら、そろそろ充電しょ？＝Hey! Lets charge it soon, ok? ノイズキャンセリングをオンにするよ？＝[Shall I] Turn on noise cancelling? アンビエントマイク、オン＝ Ambient Mic, On ノーマルモードだよ＝It's Normal Mode

Random Voice: 看守さん、ちゃんと私のこと暖かくしてよね？＝Guard-san, warm me up properly ok? 看守さん、おーい。返事してみて～＝Guard-san, heeey. Please try responding~ いいね、今の曲。あたしも好きかも＝Nice, the song on just now. I think I also like it. ん？ハルカ。なに、ニヤニヤしてんの？＝hm? Haruka. what, what's with the smiling? マヒルさんって、なんかほっとけないんだよねぇ＝Mahiru-san can't just be left on her own, right? ムウお嬢様は今日も楽しそうで羨ましいね＝Looks like Little Miss Muu's having fun today too, I'm jealous [Yuno's use of ojousama is her implying that Muu's never suffered any kind of hardship, lol get rekt muu] ....何？看守さんちょっとしつこくない？＝...What? Guard-san, aren't you being a bit too persistant? あたしが欲しい人、ここまでおいで＝If you want me, come marco, I'll polo/Person I want, come here [lyric from Teardrop]

This is PART TWO of 6 Jackalope and Es, Haruka and Yuno [You are here], Fuuta and Muu, Shidou and Mahiru, Kazui and Amane, Mikoto and Kotoko

[meraki-yao]

Himbo was straight up insulting though

No, it wasn't. It's how 99% of the fandom has described Alex. You and other rwrb fans are just pressed because main stream media aren't up the films ass.

... Here we go again.

你很幸運，本姑娘現在有心思陪你耗。

Your argument is invalid on three accounts. Language, Math, and Reading Comprehension.

1, Himbo, according to the fucking Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is "an attractive but vacuous man". Literally, the two traits that make a himbo is attractive, but lacks intelligence. It is inherently an insult.

2, 99% of the fandom? I am one of the more active accounts in this fandom, I interact with a lot of the fandom content, and yes I have seen Alex be called a himbo, but only a few times in the earlier days, I can count them on one hand. And that was enough for me to write an essay on how Alex is not a himbo (work in progress by the way.) If you don't understand how percentage works, maybe don't use words you don't know, but I'll give you a tidbit: 99% is nearly all of the fandom. Me and my friends don't see it, and we're actively looking for fandom content. This claim is false.

3, If you actually used your brain when reading that paragraph, since the other two are "female pop star", namely Camilla Cabello, not Cinderella, and "Academy-Award Winning Actress" namely Anne Hatheway, not Solene, this is clearly parallelism, so the "All-American Himbo" is Taylor, not Alex. This is calling Taylor Zakhar Perez, the real person, the real actor, unintelligent. This is an insult to him, is factually untrue (Taylor went to a top university, has a degree in Spanish culture with two majors and a minor), and is frankly microaggression. Especially when "female pop star" is a neutral term, and "Academy Award Winner" is a positive term, the contrast makes it worse.

So yeah your claim is just factually wrong.

[rivamika-trash]

Attack on Titan The Final Season Final Part (Part 2) Pre-broadcast Countdown Illustrations

10 - Kenta Ueda 上田健太 (production progress) 9 - Masako Yokote 横手雅子 (original illustration) 8 - Hajime Okuno 奥納基 (3DCG animation director) 7 - Subaru Ikeda 池田昴 (3DCG modeling director) 6 - Yoshiyuki Sano 佐野誉幸 (Giant Art Director) 5 - Takuya Suezawa 末澤卓哉 (original illustration) 4 - Ji Onishi 大西慈 (Color Design) 3 - Michelle Sugimoto 杉本ミッシェル (original illustration) 2 - Satoshi Ikeda (Animation Director) 池田智志（作画監督） 1 - Manabu Akita 秋田学 (Chief Animation Director) 0 - Tomohiro Kishi 岸友洋 (character design/chief animation director)

[yullen]

D.Gray-man c249 p1~18 TL

D.Gray-man 第249後: AWに別れを告げる Night 249: Saying Farewell to A.W.

束の間の団欒僅かな幸せを頬ばりながら While stuffing one’s cheeks with a brief moment of happiness together, gathered in a circle

p19~26 

google doc | JP transcription | proofreading: @/kudouusagi ※there are likely inaccuracies, feel free to check back.

さて！  Now, then!

あの......  Allen: Um……

ずっと同じ服装だと危険だから着替えなさい It’s dangerous to keep the same attire, so please change.

逃亡もののジョーシキ!  Common sense, for fugitives！

ここの物は自由に使っていいから Feel free to use these.

Link: 私は結構てす  I'm good.

お金のニオイがする A:  I smell money

これブランド品では．．．！？ A: These are brand-name...?!

うーんちょっと大きいな   動きやすく手直しするね Johnny: Hm, a little big. I’ll adjust it for ease of movement.

いやこれブランド品．．． A: No but wait— these are brand-name...

科学班モード [ Science Department Mode ]

昨日からずっと気になってたんですが... この高級なお宅は元帥の一体どういう......? A: I’ve been wondering since yesterday, but... what is this posh place of yours, General......?

ついでに髪も切ろっか！座ってアレン J: While we’re at it, why don’t I give your hair a cut! Sit, Allen.

ああ  はい．． A: Ah, sure...

靴はこれでいいかな Wonder if these shoes will do.

ここは私のパトロンの別邸だから気にしないで This is a secondary residence of a patron’s, so don’t mind it.

え！？  Eh?!

元帥は画��としても有名なんだよ   いくつかこういう拠点を持ってる The General is also famous as a painter. He has a few of these places.

なるほど...   師匠の愛人と似たようなものか... I see... So it’s like with Master’s lovers, huh...

あの不良と一緒にしないでね Please don’t lump me in with that hoodlum.

すみませんっ！！！   [ アレン ] Pardon, my bad!!!  [ Allen ]

パトロン......   あっ Patrons......  Ah,

クロスが一番信用してた人間に聞いてみるといい Try asking the person Cross trusted most.

オレの精神世界に在る屋敷 あの場所を目指せとクロスに言われたんだろ？ The mansion in my inner world  (lit. inner psychological world) Cross told you to head to that place, didn’t he?

はいカットできあがり～！ Cut complete~!

あのッ  ここ電話機はあります？ Um, do you have a phone (I can use)?

ジリリリリン  ジリリリリン  Riririririring  Riririririring 

なんだ  おまえか  Oh hey, it’s you.

マザーーー！！  Mother———!!

「クロス元師が一番信用してた人間」かぁ．．． The person General Cross trusted most, huh…

ネアがわざわざウォーカーにメッセージしてきたのなら 何か進展がありそうですね If Nea (went out of his way) to leave Walker this message, then there (should) likely be some progress from this.

……

心配  WORRY

でもさぁ〜〜〜  それってなんか 罠っぽく思えちゃうのは感が過ぎないのかなぁ But you know~~~  It’s just that, it seems much too like a trap.

ネアと言う男はそういう小細工を嫌うタイプかと Link: Nea seems to be the type of man to dislike such cheap tricks. (this is the revised JP script, cr for JP script: @/ponkotsubluuues)

アレンの上着をつめてます Sewing Allen’s jacket (つめて is used for e.g. ‘taking in’ a shirt, but chose ‘adjust’ since it’s vaguer  chose the more liberal option for more amusing tone)

私が思うにですが   ネアという男は   ちゃうのは考え過ぎなのかなぁ～～～～ This is (just) my opinion, but a man such as Nea might say,  “I wonder if you aren’t overthinking it~~~~”

ホントぉ〜〜〜！？  Really~~~?!

どちらかといえば”手段を選んでいられない”というように思える．．． If anything, I think it’s more like he “isn’t at liberty to choose his methods”...

ネアにとってこの現状は計画通りにいっていないのかもな Perhaps things aren’t going as planned for Nea.

わざわざメッセージを寄越したんだ 罠じゃなくても屋敷へ行ってもらいたい狙いがあんだろ おそらくネアは聖戦の真実や自分のことをモヤシに知られることを怖れていない   知って欲しいんだ He went out of his way to send this message, so even if it's not a trap, he (must have a reason) he wants him to go to that mansion. Nea likely isn’t afraid of letting the beansprout know the truth of the holy war or about himself. He wants (him) to know.

キャンベル邸には根深いものがあると思ったほうがいい It’s better to think there’s something deeply rooted within the Campbell estate.

ネアからはそれ以上の情報は聞けなかったとウォーカーは言っていたが ネアが助言してきた理由を問わなかったとは思えない 本当は何か聞いたのではないのか．．．？ でなければウォーカーがネアの言葉をすんなりと信じるわけがない Walker said he didn’t any information more than that from Nea, but I don’t think he wouldn’t question Nea's motives for giving counsel. Did he really not ask/hear anything (else)...？ Otherwise, Walker wouldn’t be believing Nea’s words without any trouble.

あの時鏡の前でウォーカーは確かにうろたえていた．．． ネアに何を言われた？ ここまできて我々に伝えることをためらうようなことがまだあるのか At that time, in front of the mirror, Walker did seem perturbed... What did Nea say to him? Is there still something he’s hesitant to share with us, who’ve come this far?

元気そうじゃないか   で？用件は何だい   Don’t you seem well.   Well? Something you need?

マザーじゃなかったら他に心当たりがないのでどうか頼みます……！ If not Mother, then I have no idea who else to ask, so please......!

あ？ Huh?

カテリーナ＂イヴ＂キャンベルという人を知りませんか？ Do you know anyone named Katerina “Eve” Campbell?

…………

？  マザー？  Mother?

．．．どこでその名を？  ...Where did you hear that name?

その．．．師匠から   幻だったかもしれませんが．．．    Well, that’s... from Master.   It might’ve just been a dream/illusion, but…

え～～と．．． でいいよな？ Eerm...   This is fine, right?

あいつめ．．． 生きていたんだね That man...  He’s alive, isn’t he.

...いつかおまえにその名を尋ねられたら   ”ある人物”を紹介するようクロスから言付かってるよ ...Cross told me that if you ever asked about that name, I should introduce you to "a certain person".

！！

この役目を果たす時がきたか．．． So it’s come time for me to fulfill this role... 

今から言うことは書いて残さず頭で覚えな From now, without writing anything down, remember what I say in your head.

ウィンダーミアの街に鳩と梟を掲げた「ズーグル」という名の古書店がある そのマスターが「宿主」を待っているだろう In the town of Windermere, there is an antiquarian bookshop named "Zoogle", raising on it a dove and an owl. Its owner will be there, waiting for “the host”.

証となるティムキャンピーをみせな   それが信用を得る唯一の合図だ As evidence, show Timcanpy as proof.   That is the sole sign to earn their trust.

……！？ ティムが．．．Tim...

マザー   実は  ティムは…… Mother.   Actually, Tim is already......

そうか．．．   アタシが言えるのはこれだけだ あとはおまえが何とかするしかないよ Is that so... That’s all I have to say. You’ll have to manage the rest.

おそらくただの古書店じゃないだろうさ 宿主だと証明できなければ殺されるかもしれない   油断するんじゃないよ It’s most likely not just any antiquarian bookstore. If you can’t prove you’re the host, they might kill you.  Don’t be careless, now.

うん  やってみます     ありがとうマザー Alright, I’ll give it a try.   Thank you, Mother.

.....はっ  Haー   なにが油断するなだ......   馬鹿かアタシは......   What’s that about carelessness...   What am I, a fool…

宿主を待ってる人物ってことはネアの協力者ってことなのかな？ The one waiting for the host, I wonder if that means he’s a collaborator of Nea’s?

すっすごく危険な気がするんだけど！ That–That sounds super dangerous!

安心しろよ��こへ行こうがおまえとモヤシは危険だ Relax, no matter where you go, you and the beansprout will be in danger.

うぐぅ    それはたしかに Gerk–!    Well, that’s for certain.

そのズーグルさん？？といいクロス元帥やリンク監査官... ネアに協力したい人間って意外といるのかなぁ    何なんだろうネアって That Mr. Zoogle?? General Cross, and Inspector Link... I wonder if there aren’t a surprising amount of people who are willing to collaborate with Nea. (lit. want to) What’s with this Nea?

ギル私はもう監査官ではありませんので    何度もいいますが Gill, I’m already no longer an Inspector.    I’ve said it many times, but.

あっ    また呼んじゃった？  Ah, I called you that again, did I?

おそらくズーグル古書店はキャンベル邸への案内役．．． 危険なのはキャンベル邸だ   もしかしたらネアの生家なんじゃねぇのか 奴のホームグラウンドってわけだ The Zoogle Antiquarian Bookstore might be our guide to the Campbell Manor... The danger here is the Campbell Manor. It may be the birthplace of Nea, meaning his home ground.

ネアのメモリーが最も濃密な場所...... The place thickest with Nea’s memories...

僕もそう思う   ネアの侵食が始まってからずっと呼ばれてる気がするんです I think so as well. That place has been calling to me since Nea’s encroachment.

夕焼けに照らされたコーネリアの木……   そこに佇むあの屋敷 The mansion standing... by Cornelia’s tree, lit by the glow of the sunset

ネアの精神世界で師匠は言ってました「ここがアレン・ウォーカーの消える場所」だって それってつまり... キャンベル邸でネアが復活するって意味なのかも In Nea’s inner world, Master said “This is where Allen Walker will disappear.” So, that is to say...  Campbell Manor might be where Nea will be reborn.

このままクロス・マリアンの筋書きにのって良いのですかウォーカー Is it alright to follow along with Cross Marian’s plot like this, Walker?

いいじゃねーか    どの道ネアと白黒つけなきゃならねぇんだろ Isn’t it fine? We have to settle things (deal with matters of white/black) with Nea at any rate.

どこぞの鴉もそのほうが好都合じゃねーの？ Isn’t that more convenient for some Crow?

今はウォーカーの同行者ですのでウォーカーの決断に従います Now, I am Walker’s comrade, thus I will abide by Walker's decision.

同行者だったり協力者だったり   切り替えが大変だよなぁ A comrade and a collaborator, must be so hard switching between the two, huh.

トゲ トゲ トゲ トゲ トゲ prickly x5

ウォーカーが問題ないというのですから私も全く問題ありません   ご心配なく If Walker has no issues with it, then I am also completely without issue. No worries.

......

ギッズギス creak/grate

仲悪～い   On ba~d terms

うーん Umm...

まぁ神田の反応は仕方ないか……  リンク監査官のうしろにいるルベリエ長官の思惑もわかんないままだし Well, Kanda’s reaction can’t be helped… Since we still don’t know the intentions of Director Lvellie behind Inspector Link.

はは   確かに師匠の筋書きの通りにいっちゃってる感はありますよねー Haha, It definitely does seem like things are going according to Master’s plans...

このまま先へ進んだところで  宿主「アレン」が消え���末路は変わらんぞ If things continue like this, the fate of the host “Allen” disappearing won’t change.

おまえはオレに宿主にされたんじゃない 自ら進んでその身をオレに捧げたんだよ おまえは  アポクリフォスに作り変えられてる I did not make you my host. You offered/sacrificed yourself to me of your own free will. You   were remade by Aprocryphos.

…決着をつけるために教団を出てきたんですから   このまま進みます ...Since I left the Order to settle this,   I’ll keep moving forward like this.

……

宿主の証か…… 師匠が僕にティムキャンピーを託してくれたのはこの為だったのかな Proof of the host...... I wonder if Master entrusted me with Timcanpy for this purpose.

ともだちになっていいですか……? Can I become friends with him......?

師匠もティムもずっと僕に宿主の役目を果たさせるために育ててくれたのかもしれない そうだとしても  僕にとってふたりが大事な存在なのは変わらない…… Master and Tim may have been raising me for the sake of fulfilling the role of the host all along. Even so, those two being precious existences to me will not change...... 

ずっとともだちだ You were always my friend.

どこまでも一緒に行こうなティム No matter where, let’s go there together, Tim.

着いたよ We’ve arrived.

ここで別れよう Let us part ways here.

色々とありがとうございましたティエドール元節 Thank you, General Tiedoll. For many things.

なに  大変なのはこれからだウォーカーくん What’s that?  The hard part comes now, Walker-kun.

私とユーくんは一度教団に戻り隠密に一「マナ」の墓とアポクリフォスについて調べよう 手紙も電信も危険だろうからしばらくは連絡はとれないが  必ず情報をもってキミたちを追う Yuu-kun and I will return to the Order, and secretly investigate Mana’s grave and Aprocryphos. Since letters and telegraphs are too dangerous, we won’t be able to contact you for a while, but   we’ll definitely bring you the information and follow along.

p19~26

[krdc]

koe ni naranaiyo — はじめては全部君がいい (wanna give you all my firsts) — full version

spotify | music video (youtube) | other links

(lyrics & official translation below)

拝啓、ありきたりな日常。

haikei, arikitarina nichijou.

dear ordinary everyday

ドラマのワンシーンに変わったあの日から

dorama no wan shiin ni kawatta ano hi kara

until that day it became a scene out of a tv show

揺れる心のときめきに

yureru kokoro no tokimeki ni

in response to the excitement of my wavering heart

気の利いた言葉が出てこないな

ki no kiita kotoba ga detekonaina

i can't think of anything clever to say

考えたってわからない

kangaetatte wakaranai

no matter how much i think about it, i won't know

怖がったって進まない

kowagattatte susumanai

i won't make any progress if i'm afraid

だけどはじめては全部君がいい

dakedo hajimete wa zenbu kimi ga ii

but i want you to be all my firsts

逆らえない想いがここにあって

sakaraenai omoi ga koko ni atte

there's a feeling here i can't resist

絵空のような恋があって

e sora no youna koi ga atte

a love like a castle in the sky

真っ直ぐで不器用な僕らのストーリー

massugu de bukiyouna bokura no sutori

our awkwardly honest story

触れたい 聴きたい もっと知りたい

furetai kikitai motto shiritai

i want to touch, i want to listen, i want to know more

この想いはもう止まらないから

kono omoi wa mou tomaranaikara

because these feelings can't be stopped anymore

拝啓、曖昧な日常。

haikei, aimaina nichijou.

dear ambiguous everyday

君が心に触れてきたあの日から

kimi ga kokoro ni furetekita ano hi kara

until that day you touched my heart

抑えきれないドキドキに

osaekirenai dokidoki ni

in response to this excitement i can't control

我儘な言葉しか出てこないな

wagamamana kotoba shika detekonaina

all i can come up with are selfish words

焦ったって変わらない

asettatte kawaranai

being anxious won't change anything

嫉妬したって仕方ない

shitto shitatte shikatanai

being jealous won't help anything

だけど君のはじめては僕がいい

dakedo kimi no hajimete wa boku ga ii

but i want to be your first

もどかしい想いがここにあって

modokashii omoi ga koko ni atte

i have these impatient feelings

きっと報われない恋なんだろう

kitto mukuwarenai koinandarou

i doubt this love will come to fruition

それでもこの幸せだけは譲れないから

soredemo kono shiawase dake wa yuzurenaikara

but still i can't give up this happiness

逆らえない想いがここにあって

sakaraenai omoi ga koko ni atte

there's a feeling here i can't resist

絵空のような恋があって

e sora no youna koi ga atte

a love like a castle in the sky

真っ直ぐで不器用な僕らのストーリー

massugu de bukiyouna bokura no sutori

our awkwardly honest story

触れたい 聴きたい もっと知りたい

furetai kikitai motto shiritai

i want to touch, i want to listen, i want to know more

この想いはもう止まらないから

kono omoi wa mou tomaranaikara

because these feelings can't be stopped anymore

[presumenothing]

重启 | RESTART

from zhou shen's second album 《反深代词》 | listen on spotify

lyrics by: 尹约 / yin yue

眼泪忍住 回望忍住 我已提前谢幕 tears – no more / look back no more / i've already skipped to the end 心爱记住 遗憾也记住 loves and regrets / remember them both 独自反复 回到最初 alone, again / back to the very start 人生巨幅拼图 the vast jigsaw of life 太多次迷路 太多次失误 too many wrong turns / too many mistakes I'm ready now I'm ready now I'm ready now 重启进度 progress: restart

睁眼看见年轻父母 eyes, opening; see my parents, so young 竟把我到来当作礼物 making a gift of my arrival 从此我会忍住不哭 from now i'll dam back these tears 哪怕再无助 别让他们辛苦 helpless – yes, but not / if i can help away this pain Ready now ready now I'm ready now

上轮人生 伤与被伤 孤独已刻骨 last lifetime's / those hurt and hurts / loneliness already bone-deep 这轮要 小心翼翼弥补 this time, i'll / mend in careful hand 遥远守护 继续追逐 或是体面结束 protect from afar / chasing, still / or bring to proper end 我终于 不再一无是处 at long last, i / am not for no good 与你重逢啊 仍是初相见 我已很满足 reunion, with you – oh / this very first, again / already my heart's fill I'm ready now I'm ready now I'm ready now 悄悄付出 quietly, i give

重来几次才能清楚 how many times before i learn 每段岔路与每个事故 every turn of road, spin of tale 每条没有尽头旅途 every journey without an end 用满身尘土 换渺小幸福 trading this cloak of dust / for a mote of happiness

I'm ready now…

[hikki2525]

【ＦＡＮＢＯＸを開設しました】[I opened a FANBOX]

ピクシブのファンボックスを開設しました🌸 https://komorihikki2525.fanbox.cc/

pixivFANBOXは、「クリエイターの創作活動を応援することができるファンコミュニティ」です。ファンがクリエイターを定期的に支援することで、クリエイターが自由に創作活動を続けられたり、新しいコンテンツ創出に挑戦したりできるようになります。pixivFANBOX is a "fan community where you can support the creative activities of creators".By regularly supporting creators, fans will be able to freely continue their creative activities and challenge themselves to create new content.

今現在決まった特典はございませんが、こもりひっきの創作活動、 イラスト制作活動に共感していただける方がいらっしゃいましたら ご支援いただけますと幸いです。 いずれは投稿する作品の進捗や、ラフなどの先行公開なども考えております。

どうぞよろしくお願いいたします✨

There are no specific benefits as of now, but Komori hikki creative activities,

If there is someone who can sympathize with the illustration production activity We appreciate your support. We are also thinking about the progress of the work to be posted and the advance release of roughs etc.

Thank you very much for your support ✨

[mk-vii-jp]

Work inprogress 2

Maybe finish in a few days.

[amniotic]

I do love to make little mixtapes for my ships. well, this got out of hand, so there's the lyrics and the vibes i get of each of these songs. i'ts first time that i make a "story" with the songs, so each one is from zoro or sanji pov, kind of progressing cause my headcanon it's that they started like frenemies with benefits to married husbands cause i'm a romantic at heart.

˗ˏˋ listen here ˎˊ˗

lyrics under the cut ♫₊˚.🎧 ✧

Montero (call me by your name) - lil nas x

Romantic talking? You don't even have to try. You're cute enough to fuck with me tonight. You know that you can Call me when you want, call me when you need Call me in the morning, I'll be on the way Oh, call me by your name. Tell me you love me in private, Call me by your name.I do not care if you lying

Amarrame - Mon Laferte

Ignórame. Ven y pierde la razón. Quiero que me ruegues y me mires a los ojos. Dame la espalda, desenfócame. Tómame del pelo y repíteme mi nombre. Y ámame, pero sin querer

Kiss with a fist - Florence + the machine

You gave a kick. I gave a slap. You smashed a plate over my head Then I set fire to our bed I spilled your blood upon the floor. You broke my leg in return So sit back and watch the bed burn. Love sticks. Sweat drips. A kick to the teeth is good for some. A kiss with a fist is better than none

Rush - Troye Sivan

Big communication, tell me what you want Translate your vibration, let your body talk to me I feel the rush, Addicted to your touch

I Wanna Be Yours - Arctic Monkeys

If you like your coffee hot, Let me be your coffee pot Secrets I have held in my heart, Are harder to hide than I thought, Maybe I just wanna be yours, I wanna be yours, I wanna be yours

Good Old fashion lover boy - queen

What're you doing tonight? Hey, boy, Set my alarm, turn on my charm. That's because I'm a good old-fashioned lover boy. Let me feel your heartbeat, can you feel my love heat?

O sarracino - Renato Carosone

'O sarracino, 'o sarracino. Tutt"e ffemmene fa 'nnammurá Ll'uocchie 'e brigante e 'o sole 'nfaccia. Ogne figliola s'appiccia si 'o vede 'e passá. Na sigaretta 'mmocca, na mana dint"a sacca. E se ne va smargiasso, pe' tutt"a cittá

Pienso en tu mirá - Rosalía

Me da miedo cuando sales Sonriendo pa' la calle Porque todos pueden ver Los hoyuelitos que te salen Me da miedo cuando sales Pienso en tu mirá', tu mirá', clavá', es una bala en el pecho

Algo contigo - Rita payes

Y me quedan muy pocos caminos. Y aunque pueda parecerte un desatino, no quisiera yo morirme sin tener algo contigo

Hallucinate - Dua Lipa

I hallucinate when you call my name, Got stars in my eyes, And they don't fade when you come my way No, I couldn't live without your touch, No, I could never have too much, I'll breathe you in forever and ever, Hallucinate Kill me slowly with your kiss, Wrap me 'round your fingertips

Washing machine heart - mitski

Baby, will you kiss me already? And toss your dirty shoes. In my washing machine heart. Baby, bang it up inside Baby, though I've closed my eyes, I know who you pretend I am

Your best american girl - Mitski

You're the sun, you've never seen the night. But you hear its song from the morning birds. Well, I'm not the moon, I'm not even a star. But awake at night I'll be singing to the birds. Don't wait for me, I can't come You're the one. You're all I ever wanted. I think I'll regret this

誰かの願いが叶うころ - Utada Hikaru

あなたの幸せ願うほど　わがままが増えてくよ. それでもあなたを引き止めたい　いつだってそう それならあなたを抱き寄せたい　できるだけぎゅっと

Can't help falling in love - elvis presley

"Only fools rush in". But I can't help Falling in love with you. Shall I stay? Would it be a sin. If I can't help Falling in love with you? Take my hand. Take my whole life too

One of your girls - troye sivan

Give me a call if you ever get lonely.I'll be like one of your girls or your homies Say what you want, and I'll keep it a secret. You get the key to my heart, and I need it

Sei la mia cittá - cosmo

Sei la mia città, fuori dal tempo. Sei la mia città, è un complimento. Sei la mia città, ti sento dentro

koko de kissu shite - shiina ringo

I´ll never be able to give up on you. So never say good bye And kiss me once again 行かないでね. 何処にだってあたしと一緒じゃなきゃ厭よ. あなたしか見て無いのよ 今すぐに此処でキスして Don't go. Wherever you go, you have to be with me. I only see you. Kiss me here right now

Eres para mí - Julieta Venegas

Temes sentir más de la cuenta. El corazón es un músculo, Si no late revienta. Extraño mirarte de lejos. De hacernos los tontos, parecemos tan viejos. Tiempo, mm, ¿quieres más tiempo?. Mírame la piel, ¿no ves acaso lo que siento?

Tú eres para mí, yo soy para ti El viento me lo dijo con un soplo suavecillo

Strawberry blond - mitski

I love it when you look my way. Look at you, strawberry blond. Fields rolling on, I love it when you call my name. All I need, darling, is a life in your shape I picture it, soft and I ache

there is a light that never goes out - the smiths

Oh, please don't drop me home¨. Because it's not my home, it's their home And I'm welcome no more To die by your side Is such a heavenly way to die. And if a ten-ton truckKills the both of us To die by your side. Well, the pleasure, the privilege is mine

From the start - laufey

Don't you dare look at me that way I don't need reminders of how you don't feel the same. Oh, the burning pain Listening to you harp on 'bout some new soulmate "She's so perfect", blah, blah, blah That when I talk to you Oh, Cupid walks right through And shoots an arrow through my heart. And I sound like a loon, but don't you feel it, too? Confess I loved you from the start

Enamorada - Miranda!

Mi corazón palpitaba, Cada vez que ese hombre se me acercaba. Y con el tiempo me empezó a gustar. Debo decir que no me fue tan mal Ahora estoy mucho mejor, Porque me di cuenta que tuvo sentido Haber recorrido lo que recorrí. Si al final de cuentas él era mi recompensa, Qué suerte que nunca me fui

Somethin' Stupid - Frank Sinata

And then I go and spoil it all. By saying something stupid like "I love you"

Dreams - the cranberries

Then I open up and see. The person falling here is me A different way to be And now I tell you openly, You have my heart so don't hurt me. You're what I couldn't find

Love on top - beyoncé

I can feel the sun whenever you're near. Every time you touch me, I just melt away Nothing's perfect, but it's worth it. After fighting through my tears And finally, you put me first. Baby, it's you.

[mayamiyamaillustration]

幸せなねこようびを🐾🐾

少女と猫。

バンデシネ脚本家イングリ・シャベールさんと製作進行中の絵本の挿絵より。

Have a happy caturday🐾🐾

The girl and her cat from a couples of pieces my drawing in progress for children’s book project with Ingrid Chabbert writer of bande dessinée.

[maziijapanese]

If I Learned Japanese From the Start, I Would…

Learning Japanese from the beginning requires dedication and a structured approach. If I were to start learning Japanese today, here's how I would organize my learning journey, particularly focusing on preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT).

1. Learn Phonetics: Hiragana, Katakana, and Pronunciation

Mastering the phonetics of Japanese is essential. This includes learning the two phonetic alphabets, Hiragana and Katakana, and understanding pronunciation rules. Although it may seem challenging at first, getting the basics right will enhance your listening and speaking skills later.

Tips:

Spend 5-7 days intensely studying Hiragana and Katakana.

Practice daily: Use small sentences at first, and gradually practice with longer paragraphs. Consistency is crucial.

2. Learn Kanji Characters

Principles of Writing

Learning Kanji, the logographic characters used in Japanese, can be tough. Start by understanding the basic principles of writing Kanji, which include stroke order and structure. Initially, your handwriting might not be perfect, but it will improve with practice.

Kanji Radicals

Radicals are the building blocks of Kanji characters. Learning the 50 most common radicals will help you understand how Kanji characters are constructed, making it easier to learn and remember new characters.

3. Choose the Curriculum

Choosing the right curriculum is critical for efficient learning. A well-structured curriculum will help you progress faster and cover all essential aspects of the language.

Recommended Textbooks:

Minna no Nihongo: This comprehensive series covers listening, speaking, reading, and writing, making it ideal for beginners.

Genki: Another popular series for beginners, Genki includes engaging exercises and cultural notes.

Kanji Look and Learn: Focuses on teaching Kanji through illustrations and mnemonics, making it easier to remember characters.

JLPT Preparation Books: If you have time, study the JLPT-specific textbooks, which are designed to match the format and content of the exams.

4. Practice Listening

Listening is fundamental to language acquisition. It helps you understand the natural flow, rhythm, and intonation of Japanese.

Steps:

Passive Listening: Listen to Japanese content (e.g., podcasts, music, TV shows) regularly, even if you don’t understand everything. This will help you get used to the sounds and intonation.

Focus on Vocabulary Pronunciation: When listening, try to pick out and focus on the pronunciation of new vocabulary. For example, when you hear 幸せ (shiawase), pay attention to its pronunciation.

Practice Speaking: Memorize useful sentences and analyze their grammar. Practice speaking them to improve fluency.

Contextual Understanding: Apply your knowledge to understand sentences with deeper meanings and varied contexts.

5. Learn Through Apps

Regular practice is essential when learning Japanese. Apps can offer a structured and engaging way to reinforce your studies. You could try some apps likes Mazii, Migii JLPT, Todaii Easy Japanese, HeyJapan…

6. Prepare for the JLPT

The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is a standardized test that measures your Japanese language proficiency. Preparing for the JLPT involves focused study on listening, reading, grammar, vocabulary, and Kanji.

Preparation Tips:

Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the format and requirements of the JLPT at your desired level.

Practice Tests: Regularly take practice tests to gauge your progress and identify areas that need improvement.

Targeted Study: Focus on the specific skills tested in the JLPT, using study materials and practice exercises designed for the exam.

Conclusion

Starting your journey to learn Japanese can be exciting and rewarding with the right approach. By focusing on phonetics, mastering Kanji, choosing the right curriculum, practicing listening, utilizing learning apps, and preparing for the JLPT, you can build a strong foundation and make significant progress. I hope these steps help you create a structured and effective learning plan.

Wish you all good study!