#Axel kun

[captainstrawberrywings]

Here the Graffart crossover event with Yu gi oh gx

[namtanlovesfilm]

this is absolutely gonna be an unpopular opinion, but sahara & nekoto make so much more sense than sahara & toki. their story is more touching & well done, they have better chemistry and, um... OH YEAH! it's actually an age-appropriate relationship and not a gross power imbalance between a teacher & his student that is treated like a normal relationship lol

[sketchy-owl]

DORKS IN WONDERLAND

Episode 2 Idia Shroud x reader

~Videogames~

Idia:*playing videogames*

Y/N: *knocks the door*

Idia:It's open...

Y/N:*kicks the door*Hello Idia-kun!

Idia:*jumps from his seat* Y-Y/N what are you doing here?

Y/N:Ortho-kun had to help Ace Deuce and Grimm with their homework, so he asked me to bring you some snacks!! *tray of delicious BUT HEALTHY snacks *

Idia:Umh....thanks....you can leave them on the bed...

Y/N:Okay!*leaves the tray on the bed*

Idia:*keeps playing *

Y/N:*looks at Idia's computer and their eyes widen*IS THAT KINGDOM HEARTS?!

Idia:*jumps again* d...don't scream....wait...You know this game?

Y/N:OF COURSE I DO! *bright smile*Oh! This is 358/2 days!! *star eyes*

Idia:Y-Yeah....I...

Y/N:Who's your favourite KH character?? Mine is Axel but I can't deny that I have a thing for Vanitas *grins*[Owlie note:sorry but those are my thoughts xD)

Idia:...I....I like Roxas...

Y/N:He's cool too! And his backstory is just amazing can't deny that I cried few tears for him.*giggles*

Idia:*clearly uncomfortable *Y...yeah [Owlie note:poor baby he has no social skills🥺]

Y/N:*notices that* Well I should go...I still have to keep an eye on Grimm....Can I join you next time?? I really love videogames!!

Idia:....Umh sure....I guess

Y/N:*smiles* Well then! See you next time Idia-kun!!*leaves*

~Bonus~

Ortho:Hello big brother! I'm back!

Idia:...Hi....*plays*...

Ortho:Ohh! You finished your game! The prefect couldn't stop talking about it!

Idia:Uh?

Ortho:Yeah! They kept talking about videogames and in the end we didn't finish our homework!!

Idia: and....what kind...of games....did they talk about??

Ortho: Well.....*insert names cause I'm not a but an idiot who only played Kh,Street fighters, Pokemon Inazuma Eleven and Cooking Mama*

Idia:....I wonder if they are single....*whispers*

Ortho:Did you say something?*smirks behind the mask*

Idia:N-NO...*sweatdrops*

Ortho:*replays Idia's worsa * ~I wonder if they are single~

Idia:ORTHO!*his hair turns red*

[striveattemptfail]

yuuri katsuki/victor nikiforov, G, ~600 | for @viktuuri-week: day 6 – happiness i nearly missed this event but i'm glad i got to dust off this old wip to celebrate anyway (ಥ‿ಥ) thank you to harky for the quick beta<3 any other mistakes are mine read on ao3

In interviews, and generally in public, Yuuri always says his happiest memory is landing his triple axel for the first time.

It happened back when he was in high school when Yuuri was practicing a bit (a lot) after hours because he was determined to land the thing before he took his skates off for the day. Yuuko had finished closing up everything but the rink itself at Ice Castle, and Takeshi was hanging around waiting for her.

“Yuuri,” he called out, “I will drag you off the ice myself if you don’t stop! It’s way past closing time already!”

Yuuri huffed an annoyed breath before yelling back, “Yes, yes! Just one more! I promise!”

(He’d been so close already. He knew exactly what he had to do—he just hadn’t pushed his body enough yet to do it.)

So Yuuko stood next to Takeshi with a sigh, and Takeshi crossed his arms as they watched Yuuri circle around the rink again.

Yuuri picked up momentum, leg swinging forward to catapult himself into the air and—

—he landed it.

Yuuko clapped in celebration. “Yuuri-kun! You did it, you did it, you did it!” she shrieked as Takeshi whooped and hollered next to her.

And Yuuri was breathless, flushed from the exertion and the overwhelming feeling of accomplishment.

He did record himself landing his first triple axel thanks to camera footage from Ice Castle. Unfortunately, the video had gotten lost over the years but, “I’m sure Yuu-chan and Nishigori-kun would be happy to attest to that night!”

However... that’s just his public answer when it comes to his happiest memory.

His honest answer is the first time Victor fell asleep on his shoulder.

They were at home watching TV after dinner at Yu-Topia, resting after a long day of practice and training, and Victor sat next to him on the tatami. Makkachin had long since fallen asleep across his and Victor’s laps, snoring softly as Victor petted the pooch’s head.

By this point, he and Victor had finalized the choreography to his Free Skate, the steps finally approved by Victor’s tremendously high standards. Yuuri’s excitement must have been obvious, because once they packed up to leave Ice Castle, Yuu-chan had teased him about the goofy look on his face.

(He had been relieved that she only mentioned finally finishing the choreography, and not that he was immensely pleased to be the reason for Victor’s satisfied smile. Takeshi had already joked that he was falling knee-deep in his childhood crush on Victor in front of Victor. Yuu-chan at least had enough tact to keep Yuuri’s budding feelings a secret.)

The moment happened when the weatherman ended his report. As Yuuri continued to quietly watch the news, he felt Victor’s head land gently on his shoulder.

He had immediately stilled, blood rushing in his ears, and murmured, “Victor...?”

The only response he received was the sound of Victor’s soft breathing. Yuuri shifted, as delicately as he could, to look at Victor’s face, and was met with the peaceful expression of his coach sound asleep.

Yuuri could swear his heart was beating so loud he could barely hear it over the voices of the news anchors. His cheeks were warm and he had to remember to breathe normally when his breaths came out shallower than usual.

He eventually turned to look back at the TV with a small smile.

And with a body aching from a day’s hard work, a full belly, a dog on his lap, and a man he realized was dangerously close to falling in love with sleeping peacefully by his side, he thought, I think I could live the rest of my life like this.

[yuzurujenn]

[2024.05.15] Ice Jewels Vol. 19: MIKIKO - Hanyu-kun seems like a boy, a sage, and a man of faith all at once.

MIKIKO, the choreographer who teamed up with Hanyu again after "GIFT", spoke in detail about the difference in concepts between "RE_PRAY" and "GIFT", how amazing Hanyu Yuzuru is after participating in the long tour, and what she expects from Hanyu in the future.

—What did you think when you first read the script written by Hanyu-san for "RE_PRAY"?  Not to be misunderstood, my reaction at the time was, "Huh? So dark!" (laughs). At the same time, I think he is a very interesting person. Although Hanyu-kun has already revealed his inner world a bit in "GIFT", this time he went deeper into the personal part to create. Therefore, I was fully aware when directing, I must truthfully and completely convey Hanyu-kun's intentions to avoid misunderstandings. 

—It seems that Hanyu-san's script is quite difficult. How did you understand it, MIKIKO?  Although the players in this game are the audience, after all, it is the language woven by Hanyu-kun himself. I believe these words also come from his own life experience and understanding. On the other hand, because he has studied psychology seriously, he was able to incorporate messages with universal meanings from a bird's-eye view of life. I interpreted it with this in mind. 

—After "GIFT", you wrote that "the opening performance is very important", so what kind of thoughts did you have about the opening of "RE_PRAY" this time?  The opening is an image of offering prayers in a secret place that is closest to heaven and belongs only to you. Also, from the concept of the game's 8-bit graphics, the scene where the main character is trapped in a Rubik's Cube naturally came to mind, so I thought about that kind of choreography.

—In the video part, there were both realistic scenes and 8-bit scenes, and in Hanyu’s skating, there were also new programs and old programs that have been skated many times. In order to bring together all these different elements in the ICE STORY "RE_PRAY", what were the areas that you paid special attention to?  At the time of ‘GIFT’, the approach was to present Hanyu-kun's life in an anthology format, but this time, from the beginning of production, we wanted the audience to feel like they were watching a movie, so we created it in this way. Therefore, during the production process, we paid special attention to the seamless connection between the videos and the skating performance. 

—MIKIKO-sensei formally choreographed ‘Chicken, Snake, and Pig’ for Hanyu-san for the first time. What was the process like and how was the choreography done?  (omitted, the answer to this question is more detailed in the previous interview in Quadruple Axel magazine) 

—In the stage performance after ‘Chicken, Snake, and Pig’ and ‘Haru yo koi’, as well as in the second half of the video where he asked "God, do you hear me?", Hanyu-san danced not to the accompaniment of music but to "language" (recitation). What did you think of this?  Seeing him dance in an improvisational way while expressing emotions like this, I once again deeply felt that he is not only an outstanding figure skater, but also a performer with outstanding abilities. 

—After watching the choreography of "MEGALOVANIA", "The Messenger of Destruction" and "Estpolis Chronicle II" choreographed by Hanyu-san himself, what do you think of the current "choreographer Yuzuru Hanyu"?  Because he choreographs from an objective point of view, he is able to convey the concept of the choreography clearly, and he has a great sense of how to use space and how to arrange the pauses, so now he is very good at choreography, isn't he? I think I'm starting to feel his style (laughs).

—The last time, "GIFT" was a one-night-only performance, but this time it is a long tour. Please share with us any feelings you have about the differences between this performance and GIFT, or any interesting aspects of this tour. Because each performance is always slightly adjusted according to the venue, each performance looks special, which is really interesting. As the number of performances increases, Hanyu's performance becomes more sophisticated, and as his performance changes, the arrangement of the entire performance will also change accordingly, which is also interesting.

—Please tell us about the scene in "RE_PRAY" that impressed you the most (it can be a scene you like, or a scene that you can't forget because you put a lot of effort into it).  In my opinion, "Chicken, Snake, and Pig" can be said to be a work that is closest to the idea I had in my mind. In addition, the sky lanterns in "Requiem of Heaven and Earth" were also realised through trial and error, and eventually became a scene full of emotional impact. 

—What were your thoughts at the end of the final performance?  During the MC session, Hanyu-kun himself said that it would be great if he could perform it again somewhere someday. In fact, from the moment I entered the Miyagi venue, I was thinking in my mind, "What else could we create if we continue next time?" 

—After "GIFT", you said, "Although I have put 120% of my efforts into the creation of "GIFT", after all, this is my first attempt at directing a figure skating performance, and there are still some areas that I am exploring. In addition, there are many things that cannot be confirmed until the actual performance, including the audience's reaction. However, after the actual performance, I think that there are still many areas that can be improved." How do you feel now after completing eight performances of "RE_PRAY" in four cities?  I am still a newcomer in the world of figure skating, and though I may have broken away from the traditional ice show model, I am sure that I can create interesting works and performances that are not restricted by genres. I sincerely hope that the performances that Hanyu-kun worked so hard to produce can be seen by a wider audience who has not been exposed to them so far. 

—Are there any new anecdotes that made you feel "Hanyu Yuzuru is really amazing" again this time? In addition, if you have any happy and unforgettable stories about Hanyu-san, please share them with us. In the script written by Hanyu-kun, in addition to the story scenes (video part), he also wrote corresponding texts for the programs, and also changed the interpretation of past programs, which really amazed me. In addition, he actively participated in the important video production discussions this time, and I think his bright personality also deepened the bond between the staff. 

—After the collaboration of "Prologue", "GIFT" and "RE_PRAY", what kind of person is Yuzuru Hanyu in MIKIKO's mind?  He seems like a boy, a sage, and a man of faith all at once.... He is an incredible person who has always lived in a special world but able to empathise with ordinary people. And it’s clear to me that he has so much talent that he hasn't even tapped into yet. It's truly terrifying.

Source: https://weibo.com/1746783312/OgJ0XkzPN Info: https://www.kazi.co.jp/icejewels/backnumber/vol19/vo19.html 

[fereise]

Overhaul/Update version for one of my proudest works, a main cover art(?) for my little project call Robotnik AU.

Characters list:

Upper row/section (above Movie Eggman's hands), from left to right: - Sonic.exe (the utmost terrifying OC/FC from the creepy pasta thingy) - Queen Boom Boo, Merc version (OC/FC made by Dan-Habiki/@Dan_Daymaker) - King Boom Boo - Lah - Su & Uh - Shadow the Hedgehog (Team Dark) - Rouge the Bat (Team Dark) - E-123 Omega (Team Dark) - Dr. Eggman Nega - Doctor Albert W. Wily (Megaman, Archie comics) - Honey the Cat - Breezie the Hedgehog - Bocoe & Decoe + Bokkun - Dark Oak/Lucas - Dark Queen/Merlina - Erazor Dijinn - Coconuts - Scratch & Grounders - General Helmut Von Stryker - Anton Veruca (Shogakukan magazines) - Junior Robotnik - Captain Whiskers & Johnny - Opal the Jellyfish (Pirates of the Setting Dawn) - Dive the Lemming (Pirates of the Setting Dawn) - Blade the Shark (Pirates of the Setting Dawn) - Captain Shellbreaker (Pirates of the Setting Dawn) - Mr. Bristles the Yeti Crab (Pirates of the Setting Dawn) - Mephiles the Dark - Silver Sonic - Dark Enerjak (Knuckle) - Nazo (appeared in Sonic X's last teaser) - Eggette/Omelette Robotnik (famed OC/FC originally designed by Alpha Gamboa (blackbookalpha)) - Infinite the Jackal - Solaris - Black Doom - Eclipse the Darkling - Black Death - Dark Gaia (Perfect form) - Metal Sonic - Iron Queen aka Regina Ferrum - Time Eater - Mammoth Mogul - Iron King aka Jun Kun - Imperator Ix - Wendy Naugus - Bearenger the Grizzly (Witchcarters) - Carrotia the Rabbit (Witchcarters) - Falke Wulf (Witchcarters) - Walter Naugus - Fleetway's Super Sonic - Shade the Echidna - Boomer Walrus aka Anti Rotor - Patch D'Coolette aka Anti Antoine - Princess Alicia Acorn aka Anti Sally

Middle section (below Eggman's hands), from left to right: - Speedy (both Pre and Post-Super Genesis Wave versions) - Sage - T.W. Barker - Dave the Intern - Sleet & Dingo - A.D.A.M. - E.V.E. - Lyric the Last Ancient - Zor - Zash (OC/FC made by @saccharinerose) - Zeena - Zazz - Zomom - Zavok - Master Zik - Agent Stone (Sonic movies 2020/2022) - Orbot & Cubot - Wes Weasely - Snively Robotnik - Dr. Robotnik (Sonic movies 2020/2022) - Thunderbolt the Chinchilla - Predator Hawk (Destructix) - Anti-Miles - Scourge the Hedgehog - Storm the Albatross - Wave the Swallow - Jet the Hawk - Rosy the Rascal - Sleuth "Doggy" Dawg (Destructix) - Sergeant Simian (Destructix) - Fiona Fox (Destructix) - Duck "Bill" Platypus - Bark the Polar Bear - Bean the Dynamite - Drago Wolf (Destructix) - Nicolette 'Nic' the Weasel - Razorclaw - The Foreman (Grandmaster) - Hugo Brass - Diesel - Flying Frog (Destructix) - Geoffrey St. John - Hershey the Cat - Nack the Weasel/Fang the Sniper (Team Hooligan) - Fleetway's Chaos (Darkon fish form)

Lower section, from left to right: - Dr. Finitevus - Grimer Wormtongue - Dr. Fukurokov - Dimitri the Echidna - Maw the Thylacine - Mecha Sally - Mecha Sonic - Mecha knuckle - Jackal Squad, named by Nibroc-Rock as Uno, Deux, Trois, Quatre, Cinq & Sei (Shadowy figures) - Kayseri Valaedshkova (OC/FC made by dirtthefox/@Its_Dima_V) - Strike (OC/FC made by @speedofsoundsketches) - Surge the Tenrec - Kit the Fennec - Sofia the Gorgon (OC/FC made by Sofia-MMD/@GorgonSofia) - Clutch the Opossum - Kaibette the Genet (OC/FC made by @kaibette) - Rough & Tumble the Skunk - Battle Lord Kukku XV - ***Mecha Robotnik - Akhlut the Orca (both Pre and Post-Super Genesis Wave versions) - Tundra the Walrus - Mordred Hood (drawn with @adokle's style) - The Foreman/Tassel boy (Post-Super Genesis Wave) - Mimic (the Mimic Octopus) - Byte the Goat (OC/FC made by @bunniibones) - Lightning Lynx - Iblis - Phage - Conquering Storm (Post-Super Genesis Wave) - Bride of the Conquering Storm (Pre-Super Genesis Wave) - Dr. Starline - Biolizard - Sigma (Megaman, Archie comics) - Axel the Water Buffalo - Abyss the Squid - Cyani the Cobra (OC/FC made by @bunniibones) - Cipher the Owl (OC/FC made by @bunniibones) - Bleak (OC/FC made by HT-Doodles/@HtDoodles) - Clove the Pronghorn (my top fav among all the characters here) - Cassia the Pronghorn - Lien-da - Chaos - Tikal the Echidna - Pachacamac - Gae-Na - Kragok - Thrash the Devil - Warden Zobotnik & Znively (Zone Cop) - Belinda & Charlie - Nephthys the Vulture - ??? (Behind Nephthys) - Trevor Burrow the Mole (Desert Raiders) - Sonar the Fennec (Desert Raiders) - Spike the Porcupine (Desert Raiders) - Razor the Shark - Queen Angelica - Rusty Rose - Robo Tails (Brain-washed, based on Sonic Lost World's designs) - Beauregard Rabbot - Jack Rabbit - Matilda the Armadillo - Zefir (my main OC/FC) - Gamer Deer (aka 'Aleko' the Northamer Guard or the 'Gamerdeerdude' by @adokle) - Zonic (Zone Cop) - Chesah the Tarsier aka No.29 (my OC/FC) - Sandy the Caterkiller (OC/FC made by @the-hydroxian-artblog)

For the Alt version: FeReinsm on Instagram: “Overhaul/update versions for one of my proudest works, a main cover art(?) for my lil’ project - Robotnik AU. For the 2nd and 4th pics…”

[the-babygirl-polls]

Babygirl Polls Lineup: Week Three

Hi everyone! Here is the lineup for the third week of the Babygirl Polls! Thanks to everyone for your submissions!

Chris McLean (Total Drama)

Diego Brando (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure)

Spike (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Benjamin/Hokma (Lobotomy Incorporation)

Sir Crocodile (One Piece)

Leone Abbacchio (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure)

Getou Suguru (Jujustsu Kaizen)

Yami Bajura (Yu-Gi-Oh Duel Monsters)

Troy Barnes (Community)

Cahara (Fear and Hunger)

Zuke (No Straight Roads)

Five Pebbles (Rain World)

Obito Uchiha (Naruto)

Matt (Eddsworld)

Spamton G. Spamton (Deltarune)

Luo Binghe (Scum Villain Self Saving System)

Raphael (Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)

Death (Discworld)

Kimimaro (Naruto)

Cronus Ampora (Homestuck)

Lorenz Hellman Gloucester (Fire Emblem)

The Doctor (Doctor Who)

Riddle Rosehearts (Twisted Wonderland)

Klaus (The Vampire Diaries)

Caroline (The Vampire Diaries)

Jammie Tartt (Ted Lasso)

Catra (She-Ra)

Adora (She-Ra)

Natalie (Yellowjackets)

Prince Zuko (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

Caesar Flickerman (The Hunger Games)

Sasha Nein (Psychonauts)

Scott Pilgrim (Scott Pilgrim vs The World, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off)

Vergil Sparda (Devil May Cry)

Aran Ryan (Punch Out!!!)

Raymond (Animal Crossing)

Randall Ascot (Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask)

Peter B. Parker (Into the Spiderverse)

DJ Octavio (Splatoon)

Tape (Paper Mario: Original King)

Tangent (I Was A Teenage Exocolonist)

Gargamel (The Smurfs)

Tobari Durandal Kumohira (Nabari no Ou)

Emil Castagnier (Tales of Symphonie: Dawn of a New World)

Israel "Izzy" Hands (Our Flag Means Death)

Deadpool (Marvel)

Viago (What We Do In The Shadows)

Julian Devorak (The Arcana)

Grimer Wormtongue (Fleetway Sonic Comics)

Will Turner (Pirates of the Caribbean)

Sea Hawk (She-Ra)

Muriel (Good Omens)

Axel (Kingdom Hearts)

Crowley (Good Omens)

Castiel (Supernatural)

Crowley (Supernatural)

Jack Skellington (Nightmare Before Christmas)

Bow (She-Ra)

Scorpia (She-Ra)

Frenchie (Our Flag Means Death)

Oluwande Boodhari (Our Flag Means Death)

Dr. James Wilson MD (House MD)

Seeley Booth (Bones)

Will Graham (Hannibal)

Niklaus Hendrix (Just Roll With It: Riptide)

Ambrosius Goldenloin (Nimona (2023))

Hawkeye Pierce (M*A*S*H*)

Sandalphon (Granblue Fantasy)

Kai (Kung Fu Panda)

Tai Lung (Kung Fu Panda)

Mikoko Mikoshiba/Mikorin (Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-Kun)

Saul Goodman/Jimmy McGill (Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul)

Doctor Starline (Sonic the Hedgehog)

Adam Stanheight (Saw (2004))

Infinite the Jackal (Sonic the Hedgehog)

Xenk Yendar (Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves)

Espio the Chameleon (Sonic the Hedgehog)

Neo (The Matrix)

Morgana Pendragon (BBC Merlin)

John Reese (Person of Interest)

Dr. Cameron (House MD)

Anthony "Anton" Herzen (Professor Layton and the Elysian Mask)

Drumbot Brian (The Mechanisms)

Ivan (Shadow and Bone)

Holland Vosjik (Shades of Magic)

Hannibal Lecter (Hannibal)

Jesus (The Bible)

Edgward/Nygma (Batman)

Gabriel Reyes/Reaper (Overwatch)

Big Boss (Metal Gear Solid)

Gunpowder Tim (The Mechanisms)

Gaueko (Nasty Dogs)

Hancock (Fallout)

Mothman (American Folklore)

Harry Wilson (Leverage: Redemption)

Kiyoka Kudou (My Happy Marriage)

Rand al'Thor (Wheel of Time)

Nam Seon-ho (My Country: The New Age)

Steven Grant (Marvel)

Howl Jenkins Pendragon (Howl's Moving Castle)

Redos (cuz i messed up in one way or another)

Jason Todd (DC Comics)

[triptychgrip]

A Showdown of 'Extraness': my Yuri!!! on Ice x Fruits Basket Crossover

Cutting it close, but I made it in the nick of time for Fruits Basket Mondays!

My attempt to envision what might happen if my favorite anime characters were to meet practically wrote itself, but I suppose I shouldn't have been surprised, given that they are the two most extra people in the world: costume designer Ayame Sohma from Fruits Basket (Furuba) and figure skater/coach Viktor Nikiforov from Yuri!!! on Ice. You can now read the story here, which features, among other things:

-An instantly star-struck Yuuri who is dazzled by Ayame's appearance

-Pouty/jealous Viktor who wants to make sure his husband's eyes stay on him (and is even tempted to go against his doctors' advice not to jump quads in this endeavor)

-Yuki Sohma and Yuri Plisetsky, whose blood pressure readings might otherwise indicate they're dead, such is their exasperation with Viktor and Ayame's combined auras

-Mine and Ayame being moved to tears by Yuuri's explanation of his Yuuri on Ice routine

-Haru casually admitting to Yuri that Yuki is his first love

-and protective Yuki, defending his brother's extraness due to a misunderstanding

Ayame, Viktor, Yuuri, Mine, Yuki, and Yuri's meeting is made possible thanks to the meddling of Okukawa Minako, who has been a loyal client of Ayame and Mine's costume design business for many years, and suggests that the Katsuki-Nikiforovs utilize their expertise for an upcoming ice show.

Below is an excerpt that I hope piques your interest!

---------

“Indeed, the very opposite of a battle will be happening today!” Ayame cried out, his eyes beginning to glint with a sort of crazed fervor.

Axel, Lutz, and Loop just stared, for once rendered entirely speechless.

It was hard to tell if it was Ayame’s words or his general aura that had had such an impact on the triplets.

“Yuuri-kun! It’s Vik-chan’s equally extra twin!” Yuuko burst out, turning wide, enraptured eyes onto her childhood best friend.

The range of reactions this elicited truly ran the gamut.

Most pronounced was Viktor’s betrayed hiss of “What do you mean, ‘equally’?! You once called me the most extra person alive!”.

Then there was Ayame and Loop’s delighted clapping, as well as Mine and Axel’s expressions of earnest fascination.

But it was Yuki’s petrified reaction that immediately solidified Yuri’s sense of kinship with the young man, who was silently mouthing “equally?” over and over, with a visage of pure terror.

He knew the feeling all too well.

With Yuuri and Viktor having left Russia in the spring of 2019, he didn’t see them nearly as often as he used to when they’d trained alongside one another in St. Petersburg. As such, any period of prolonged exposure to the extremely over-the-top ‘Skate Spouses’ had to be handled with unwavering resolve.

He’d long accepted it as his cross to bear, and realized that he and Yuki were likely the only ones with a chance of preventing this business meeting from turning into a multi-hour ordeal. Long-winded monologues about the wonders of artistic collaboration and potential duels for Yuuri’s attention were likely the least of their worries.

“I think I’m beginning to understand why Minako was so eager for this meeting to occur,” Yuri cut in, dryly. “Let’s get to the ice. We only have a half-hour before public skate opens.”

With this, he indicated for the triplets to get a move-on, and started to push Yuuri and Viktor forwards (which interrupted the former’s intent examination of the exact dimensions of Ayame’s ridiculously long handkerchief).

As they began to move in an awkward shuffle, Viktor turned to his spouse, whispering urgently.

“Yuranya, I was just thinking: how about I switch up the choreography a bit for my part in ‘Yuuri on Ice’? Even just one quad wouldn’t do any harm, don’t you think? That ending triple flip could be swapped out–”

“ABSOLUTELY NOT!” Yuri bellowed, that blood pressure spike finally taking effect.

Poor Yuuko tripped over Ayame’s handkerchief in alarm, but at this point, the “train” of his rage had already left the station, barrelling right through the departure doors.

“Do I need to remind you of what your doctors said last week, YOU IDIOT?!?” he continued in a roar, hardly daring to believe Viktor’s foolishness. “You must be out of YOUR GODDAMN MIND– ” (“Yura! Language!”) “ –if you think I plan on spending the rest of the day in the emergency room, ALL BECAUSE YOU LET YOUR INSECURITY OVER SOME ATTRACTIVE STRANGER (“So you admit it! You do think he’s attractive!”) “ –land you FLAT ON YOUR ASS in the middle of the rink WITH A BUSTED KNEE!”

[kmhnsecretexchange]

Artist: moulin aka axel

For: @agalnamedlunasea​

Prompt: hpa komahina- hajime and nagito meeting up on campus late at night

Artist’s notes: Look up at the stars, Hinata-kun. Compared to them, you and I both—we are nothing. You understand me, don’t you?

[ultimate-blorbo-bracket]

Here will be all of the returning characters from the previous tournaments!

Here's the link to the character submissions if you'd like to add more!

The First Tournament

Vash the Stampede - Trigun

Miles “Tails” Prower - Sonic the Hedgehog

Percy Jackson - Percy Jackson series

Oz - Monster Prom

Max - Sam and Max

Happy Chaos - Guilty Gear

Wheatly - Portal 2

Amity Blight - The Owl House

Agent 3 - Splatoon

Riku - Kingdom Hearts

Will Graham - Hannibal

Jigglypuff - Pokemon

Rosencrantz - Rosencrantz And Gildenstern Are Dead

Terra - Kingdom Hearts

Diamond - Pokemon Diamond & Pearl

Kairi - Kingdom Hearts

Wise Elder Vex - Yonderland

MK - Lego Monkie Kid

Vector the Crocodile - Sonic the Hedgehog

Link - Legend of Zelda

Nicelander Gene - Wreck-It Ralph

Gretchen Wieners - Mean Girls

Wes - One Last Stop

N - Pokemon Black & White

Big Man - Splatoon

(the rest are under the cut!)

Aziraphale - Good Omens

Spock - Star Trek

Hawkeye Pierce - MASH

Isabelle - Animal Crossing

Plagg - Miraculous Ladybug

Glory - Wings of Fire

Darcy - Pride and Prejudice

Snatch - A Hat In Time

Virgil - Sanders Sides

Makoto Yuki - Persona 3

Aled Last - Radio Silence

Sho Minamimoto - The World Ends With You

Rose Quartz - Steven Universe

Pico - Pico’s School

Bandana Waddle Dee - Kirby series

Sora - Kingdom Hearts

Alfred - Fire Emblem Engage

Kagami Tsurugi - Miraculous Ladybug

Morpheus - The Sandman

Odo - Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Alfur Aldric - Hilda

Tintin - Adventures of Tintin

Humphrey Bone - Ghosts

Unikitty - The Lego Movie

Wu Zetian - Iron Widow

Adrien Agreste - Miraculous Ladybug

Razputin Aquato - Psychonauts

Callie - Splatoon

Volo - Pokemon: Legends Arceus

Shadow the Hedgehog- Sonic the Hedgehog

Riolu - Pokemon

Data - Star Trek: The Next Generation

Albedo - Genshin Impact

Celeste - Animal Crossing

Gyro Gearloose - Ducktales

Elfilin - Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Raichu - Pokemon

Carden Greenbrier - The Cruel Prince

Yu Narukami - Persona 4

Van Fanel - Escaflowne

Fenton Cabrera - Ducktales

Horatio - Hamlet

Meta Knight - Kirby series

Pit - Kid Icarus

Peridot - Steven Universe

Anne - Anne With An E

Yusuke Kitagawa - Persona 5

Edric Blight - The Owl House

Zenitsu Agatsuma - Demon Slayer

Josuke Higashikata - Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

Graystripe - Warrior Cats

Cheng Xiaoshi - Link Click

Hilda - Hilda

Roxas - Kingdom Hearts

Luz Noceda - The Owl House

Koraidon - Pokemon

Leiland - Dimension 20

The Second Tournament

Arven - Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

Revali - Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Tinkaton - Pokemon

Ravio - Legend of Zelda: Link Between Worlds

K_K - Deltarune

Bambi - Disney’s Bambi 

Luxu - Kingdom Hearts

Umbreon - Pokemon 

Aqua - Kingdom Hearts

Asriel Dreemur - Undertale

Launchpad McQuack - Ducktales

Midna - Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Nikol - Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Sprig Plantar - Amphibia 

Blaze the Cat - Sonic the Hedgehog

Ballister Boldhearts - Nimona

Peppermint Vandelay - Hi-Fi RUSH

Oshawott - Pokemon 

Luke Sullivan - Street Fighter 5

Killua Zoldyck - Hunter X Hunter

Axel - Kingdom Hearts

Bede - Pokemon Sword & Shield 

Chandelure - Pokemon

Scaramouche - Genshin Impact

Simon Snow - Carry On 

Canti - FLCL

Anya Forger - Spy X Family 

Cloud Strife - Final Fantasy 7

Azymondias - The Dragon Prince

Swellow - Pokemon

Jibanyan - Yo-kai Watch

Marluxia - Kingdom Hearts

Iruma Suzuki - Welcome To Demon School Iruma-kun

Basil - Omori

Sypha Belnades - Castlevania

Surge the Tenrec - IDW Sonic

Ai - Puyo Puyo

Dillon - Dillon’s Rolling Western

Mew - Pokemon

Yoshi - Super Mario Bros

Rasmus - Omega Strikers

Daroach - Kirby series

Silvally - Pokemon

Silver - Pokemon Gold & Silver

Undyne - Undertale

Aerith Gainsborough - Final Fantasy 7

Bowser Jr - Super Mario Bros

The Professor - Puppet History

[namtanlovesfilm]

dude these bls with age gaps GOTTA STOP having the protagonists meet when one of them is a 10 year old kid & the other is an adult bruh, we already know some p*do shit was going on no need to point it out even more 💀

[flame-face-off]

Flame Face-off Finalised Participants

ROUND ONE SECOND HALF begins on the 11th of April at 4am GMT

sorry it took so long! life happened but here's the finalised participants. the winners of each half will go up against each other in the finals

full list of participants under cut

First Half (first pic lmao):

Ruby (Steven Universe) vs Sunset Shimmer (My Little Pony)

Dabi (My Hero Academia) vs Axel (Kingdom Hearts)

Every Fire Type Pokemon (Pokemon) vs Red Son (Lego Monkie Kid)

Leo Valdez (PJO) vs Lavagirl (Sharkboy and Lavagirl)

Azula (ATLA) vs Calcifer (Howl's Moving Castle

Flame Princess (Adventure Time) vs Caleb Widogast (Critical Role)

Bloom (Winx Club) vs Bowser (Super Mario)

Fireboy (Fireboy & Watergirl) vs Zuko (ATLA)

Sailor Mars (Sailor Moon) vs Portagas D Ace (One Piece)

Grillby (Undertale) vs Holt Hyde (Monster High)

Lup (The Adventure Zone) vs Revolutionary Sabo (One Piece)

Roy Mustang (FMA) vs Shouto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

Agnes Montague (TMA) vs Toriel Dremurr (Undertale)

Ann Takamaki (Persona 5) vs Blaze the Cat (Sonic)

Firestar (Warrior Cats) vs Natsu Dragneel (Fairy Tail)

Yanfei (Genshin Impact) vs Rengoku Kyojuro

Second Half (second pic lmao)

Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games) vs Mushu (Disney)

Ashes O' Reilly (The Mechanisms) vs Iroh (ATLA)

Aubrey Little (The Adventure Zone) vs Emma Bloom (Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children)

Qi Rong (TGCF) vs Jude Perry (TMA)

Paintbrush (Inanimate Insanity) vs Ayda Agufort (Dimension 20)

El Diablo (Suicide Squad COMICS) vs Alice Asmodeus (Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun)

Lightning McQueen (Cars) vs Chip JRWI (JRWI is his last name. to m e)

Spitfire/Sophia (Hachetfield) vs Vivian (Paper Mario)

Human Torch (Fantastic Four) vs Thanatos (JRWI)

Fëanor (The Silmarillion) vs Michelangelo Hamato (RoTMNT)

Firey (Battle for Dream Island) vs Magna Swing (Black Clover)

Ember Mclain (Danny Phantom) vs Lio Fotia (Promare)

Toothless (HTTYD) vs Zerako (Skull and Pyro)

The Pyro (Team Fortress 2) vs Lewis Pepper (Mystery Skulls)

Ava Ferin (JRWI) vs Damien Lavey (Monester Prom)

[cinnamonm00n]

Skate on the Melted Ice

Chuuya x (fem)reader

Chapter I <<< Chapter II >>> Chapter III

This Skater Mess Is a Game of Chess

Third person P. O. V

[Armed Skater Agency] 

"Aa-aah~"

"Dazai stop moaning and stretch properly we're behind schedule because of you!" Kunikida yelled, slapping Dazai's head with the back of his clipboard.

Dazai got up from his splits with a saddened face.

"No need to be soo cruel Kunikida-kuunn"

"Stop whining, you good-for-nothing! It's because of you that the rest are waiting!"

Their bickering continued like this even as both of them got onto the ice. 

"Kunikida-san, where is the president?" asked Yosano, interrupting thir shineningans.

This snapped the focus in Kunikida back to life, turning back to her with a serious expression.

"He won't be joining us today. I was asked to take over this time" he put his clipboard down on the edge of to rink. Thus freeing his hands.

He clapped them loudly to get the attention of the skaters, scattered around him across the rink.

"Alright everyone, come close!"

And so the group of skaters did, waiting for his further instructions. 

"Today we begin your improved programs with the usage of abilities. We'll go over the old ones and see where we can improve. Yosano-san you're up first."

Reader P. O. V

Yosano spins with a thick layer od elegance wrapping around her, so peaceful yet strong.

My eyes relax as I drink in her mysterious presence.

Then she pulled out a machete half her size.

The pupils of my eyes shot wide open.

She became treffying.

I couldn't stop looking at her. 

Between sharp jumps and swings with her ginormous knife, her peacfull grace came back near the end of her performance. When her final panting arabesque was revealed by glowing butterflies leaving her blood soaked clothes. 

"Wow... " withered out of me. 

She joins me near the edge, wipping sweat on her brow, as the rest applaud her.

I would have talked to her and expressed my amazement if didn' t have to shift my focus back on the ice and Ranpo's performance. 

He was among the most popular skaters... And one of the laziest, just like Dazai. 

His skating was sepping of sheer wit. Unexpected flickers of movement never failing to make audiences swoon. Ranpo never once slipped while skating, bringing good name to our Agency. 

It's like he didn't need an ability to make a great show. 

After Ranpo, Dazai and his charm were next.

I highlight charm, for it was that charm combined with his amazing talent and looks that got him heeps of fangirls. 

Sometimes we couldn't fight them off. 

I wonder what will they think of him now after they see him with with a blue whirlwind of light around him. 

Soon after Dazai's performance we saw Kunikida and his flawless timing to every beat.

It was my turn next.

My limbs slowly started to melt under high stakes I just saw. 

"I'm fucked" pumped through my thoughts as I got on the ice. 

My hot muscles hit the cold wind as I move. 

Spinning I get up, strings of concrete fibers of pain pulling me backwards. 

I struggle against them knowing it makes me look stiff. 

The fight persisted with every jump and axel up until my last move. Which I ended with a thud on the ground, out of breath. 

Blinking away the shame rising in my gut, I walk back to the edge where the rest stood quietly.

I'm met with Kunikida's hand waiting to give me several notes. 

"You need work Y/N... Lots of it"

If he had hit me with a bag of bricks it would have hurt less. 

Third person P. O. V

[The Port skaters] 

Loud bang of a body hitting the ice could be heard throughout the rink. 

A tired lot of aching muscles stretched out on the ground breathed with difficulty. 

"Glad to see you practicing without me Chuuya-kun~"

Chuuya hurriedly got up. White dots sparking in his vision.

"Apologies for not waiting, Boss" 

Mori giggled off the name "Boss" his skaters used as a joke. 

"It's fine, but I am obliged to warn you that you'll need to save some of that energy for the future... "

"Huh?!" 

"Your program is full of moments that require ballet level strength, hence that's why I'm entrusting you to Kyouyu-san."

The famous ballerina walked out of the shadows. 

"Good to see you again, lad" 

Chuuya bowed "Good to see you again too, big sis... "

Mori spoke again "Chuuya you have already come from Kyoyou-san's ballet school, so I'm sure you are well aware of how things shall progress further... But this time for the sake of the competition you will have to go through it again... Only this time it will be 10 times more rigorous. "

Behinde Chuuya's strong nod was hidden a scared shiver of remembrance of how strict that program was in the past. 

Mori's willingness to train Chuuya... Pushing him to the limits...

All of this pushed a single thought into Chuuya's consciousness.

He really was an important pawn in this game of chess Mori was unfolding. 

[kuningaskunta-sielut]

Yks mun käännöksiin liittyvä pet peeve (btw onks termille "pet peeve" mitään hyvää suomenkielistä vastinetta?) on se, kun kirosanoja käytetään konteksteissa, mihin ne ei sovi. Ei mulla kiroilua vastaan mitään ole, itsekin harrastan sitä päivittäin aika ahkerasti, mutta mua häiritsee kun (etenkin fani)kääntäjät änkeää tekstin täyteen voimasanoja vaikka se ei sovi teoksen tyyliin sitten yhtään. Ja jos joku alkaa sitten vaahdota et "OMG tiesittekste et tän söpön sarjan japanilaisessa versiossa tyypit kiroilee koko ajan :DDD", niin meikäläisellä rasahtelee rusinat niin että se kuuluu varmaan Ahvenanmaalle saakka. Ei, ei ne kiroile sen enempää kuin muillakaan kielillä, kääntäjä vaan vissiin oli sitä mieltä että tekstin laatua parantaisi, jos sinne nakkelisi kirosanoja ihan vaan huvin vuoksi (ks. Obligatory Swearing).

Mutta pakko myöntää, että tosta mun äskeisestä saarnasta huolimatta tää pisti lähinnä hymyilyttämään. Yleisesti ottaen Disney-hahmot puhuu tässä suomennoksessa sillä tavalla, mitä Disney-hahmoilta nyt voi odottaa, joten Kapteeni Koukku huutamassa perhanaa tuli niin puskista, että se pisti väkisinkin hörähtämään. Lieventävänä asianhaarana toiminee se, että oon melko varma, että tää on ainoa kerta, kun joku Disney-hahmo kiroilee missään KH-mangan suomennetussa osassa. Yks tai kaks lievää kirosanaa muistaakseni löytyy, mutta ne tulee kaikki KH-hahmojen suusta, joten se ei tunnu ihan yhtä oudolta. Myönnän olevani sen verran puristi, että jotain virallista materiaalia kääntäessä en itse edes KH:n pahimpia edgyjonnehyypiöitä laittaisi kiroilemaan, koska peleissähän ei enkkuversioissa kiroilua harrasteta, poislukien ne hyvin harvat tapaukset kun se kirosanan sisältävä repla on suoraan jostain Disney-leffasta lainattu (ja sit kans se yks kerta kun Axel sanoi "hell" ihan muuten vaan, mut sitä ei lasketa).

Joo sori tää nyt taisi olla tavallistakin enemmän vaan sitä, että mä paasaan asioista ihan vaan sen takia kun ne ärsyttää. Ja edelleenkään en kiroilua noin ylipäätään vastusta, mutta se nyt vaan sopii joihinkin tilanteisiin paremmin kuin toisiin, oli kyse sitten elämästä yleensä tai kääntämisestä.

[yuzurujenn]

[2024.05.11] Quardruple Axel May Issue: MIKIKO - A Solitary Realm

-MIKIKO, your first collaboration with Hanyu was during his debut ice show “Prologue” after he turned professional. I understand that you were in charge of directing for the programs "Haru yo koi" and "Itsuka Owaru Yume".

MIKIKO: Yes, that’s right. I was mainly responsible for the ice projection, including the visual and performance effects.

-At that time, how did you draw inspiration from the programs for the projection effects?

MIKIKO: "Haru yo koi" was already a well-known program, so when creating it, I aimed to preserve its established impression while also hoping to generate a synergistic effect. As for "Itsuka Owaru Yume", since it was a new program being revealed for the first time at “Prologue,” I first asked him about the background of the piece he chose and his mindset while performing it. Hanyu sent me a long text and also shared videos of himself skating on the ice rink. I tried to break it down to understand it, and then thought about various things such as "What kind of image is suitable?" and "What kind of appearance is more appropriate?".

-What was the process of creating the visuals like?

MIKIKO: Usually in the live shows that I direct, images are often projected onto the background of the stage. It’s rare that I have the luxury to direct a performance where the entire venue could be used as a canvas such as in an ice show, so I was very happy about it. Being able to project images onto the huge, pure white ice surface was sure to guarantee a dynamic production, so I was very excited during the process.

-I had the pleasure to watch Perfume's "Perfume LIVE 2021 "polygon wave"" produced by MIKIKO-sensei before. The venue at that time happened to be PIA Arena MM, and just like this time, the venue was used extensively for projection.

MIKIKO: Yes. It was still during the COVID-19 pandemic, at a time when admission restrictions were finally relaxed, allowing live performances with up to 50% of the maximum capacity. We took advantage of this condition by not allowing the audience into the Arena (the inner part) and only setting up seating in the stands, which we thought would meet the 50% occupancy requirement. This allowed the entire inner venue to become the stage, and we set up LED Vision on the floor of the inner venue to create an effect similar to that on the ice surface.

I hadn’t imagined collaborating with Hanyu-kun at that point. I learned a lot from the Perfume performance, which eventually led to directing on an ice surface of the same shape. From a sequential task perspective, it was quite ideal for me.

-The skills developed in the live world have been effectively applied in directing ice shows.

MIKIKO: Yes, but ultimately, they are completely different genres. When producing “Prologue,” it was already decided that I would direct “GIFT,” which involved directing a performance at Tokyo Dome. When we first started communicating, we thought about trying to make two programs first, which was what happened during the session at "Prologue". So, if I have to say, "Prologue" was like a trial run.

Because ice show is an unknown world to me, we had to experiment a lot with "GIFT", but there is also strength that comes with being in uncharted territory. Perhaps from the perspective of figure skating, it may seem like something unconventional, but from our point of view, only figure skating can achieve dynamic movements at such a fast speed. In a normal live show, there would never be a situation where one person performs endlessly on such a vast stage. So, for me, this kind of cooperation brings a lot of new possibilities. Furthermore, thanks to the miracle of his technical prowess and expression filling up the entire space of the venue, we somehow managed to overcome various challenges. However, after watching the official performance of "GIFT", I once again realised how amazing Hanyu-kun is, and at the same time I also thought, "Ah, the direction could be better."

-MIKIKO, have you made any new discoveries or ideas through the official performance?

MIKIKO: Although I had experienced filling up the entire dome like this in the past, no one was sure what synergy would be produced in the official performance. But in the end, the actual outcome was even more amazing than imagined. I think part of it was due to the emotional investment of the ice fans, and another part was that Hanyu’s emotional and mental investment in the performance was richer than I had anticipated. So, I realized, “Since we could achieve this level, the directing could be even better,” which sparked ideas like “This can be done, and that can be done.” I think this is also connected to “RE_PRAY.”

-Specifically, what kind of ideas emerged?

MIKIKO: "GIFT" was a showcase of Hanyu’s figure skating career to date, presented in an anthology format, weaving stories in between intervals to demonstrate that "the same person has a variety of colours”.

As for "RE_PRAY", rather than that, I want everyone to have "the feeling of watching a movie or a stage play", so I incorporated game elements throughout the story and meticulously filmed the visuals performed by him. The story aspect of this can be seen as what I learned the most from “GIFT” and also where I made further refinements. -When the overview of “RE_PRAY” was announced, the use of game themes was quite surprising. It was hard to imagine what kind of ice performance it would be. I couldn’t help but wonder, “What kind of performance will it be?” MIKIKO, what were your thoughts when you first heard Hanyu’s concept for “RE_PRAY”?

MIKIKO: Through various exchanges, we had a rough understanding of each other’s preferences. So, from the conceptual stage of “RE_PRAY,” we continuously brainstormed and bounced ideas around, starting with “What should we do next?”

I am not familiar with games at all. For example, when he talked about "Itsuka Owaru Yume", he would explain it in terms of games, saying, "This is a Final Fantasy song, and it has this kind of ocean water feel, and it's like this…" In addition, as we talked about various things, he would always use game analogies or talk about game music at key points. Through this process, I felt that games had a huge influence on his way of thinking and his life. Gradually, I started to think, “Maybe a game-themed concept could be interesting.”

However, precisely because games are a very important presence in his life, it was more challenging to direct this concept. It seemed like a simple idea at first glance, but it required careful handling. Therefore, I thought that directing this theme would need to be approached with caution. It's catchy, so all the more to be careful. But then we decided, “Let's be brave and make a game out of it!” And that's how it all started.

-So, the concept was born from the discussions between the two of you. Regarding the actual “RE_PRAY” ice show, the overall structure of the first and second halves is not just a straightforward presentation of the programs; instead, it incorporates various contrasts and echoes, giving the impression of meticulous and detailed production. It’s something that can’t be fully grasped in just one viewing, much like watching a movie or reading a novel.

MIKIKO: Yes, exactly.

-The projections on the ice, the visuals on the screens, the monologues, the music selection, and the choreography all seem to carry profound meanings, but it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact answers. Or perhaps there are no right answers. How did you and Hanyu come together to create the overall concept?

MIKIKO: While you can restart a game as many times as you want, life only happens once and cannot be replayed. On the path of life, there are various crossroads. Choosing one path (to the right) leads to one world, while choosing the other path (to the left) leads to another world. Decisions are constantly being made, whether “yes” or “no.” The interesting aspect of games is that you can see both outcomes through resets, but in real life, even if you think “what if” or “maybe there could be such opportunities,” you cannot walk both paths simultaneously and must make a choice.

From my perspective, Hanyu-kun has been making ultimate choices throughout his 29 years of life. Each time he makes a choice, whether it was the right one is judged entirely by himself. He lives in such a world. Games can be reset and played again, providing opportunities for redemption, but one's life is a path that cannot be retraced. I think he might want to affirm such an existence. For the audience, he hopes that they can project themselves into the same situation, conveying the idea that “what everyone feels here today is also a YES.” Therefore, even if there are audience members who watch all the performances, the experience of the same program might vary depending on specific days, moments, physical states, or events that occurred before coming to the venue. I think this in itself is remarkable.

Hanyu, who exists in a world where “even performing the same program never feels the same,” probably wants to convey this affirmation to everyone.

-Hanyu himself said, "I hope it will give everyone an opportunity to think about something."

MIKIKO: So, even though both the first and second halves start with the same program, “Itsuka Owaru Yume,” different viewing angles reveal contrasts, such as appearing blue in the first half and pink in the second half. I wasn't sure if it would work, and I thought, "I think it's going to be difficult," but in the end, I think it worked very well.

Also, even though both halves use “play”, the first part is 'play' with an 'L' and the second part is 'pray' with an 'R' (note: there is no L sound in Japanese so both word sare written the same in Japanese "プレー"). Accordingly, the skating style of the first and second half has also been adjusted. The intent was to show that "even the same person's performance can be so different".

There is also an emotional aspect related to “not being able to save progress in the game and having to start from the beginning.” “Even if you start from the beginning, the scenery changes dramatically if you choose a different path” is the feeling we aimed to portray.

-The "L" and "R" of "プレー" you just mentioned. Who designed this way of wording?

MIKIKO: Although the name plays on “replay” with the added meaning of “pray” in “プレー (pray),” I think Hanyu-kun originally had the term “RE_PRAY” in mind. So, during brainstorming, the idea of “the concept for the first half using ‘L’ for ‘play’ also seems good” came up midway.

-That's really interesting. How was the overall structure decided?

MIKIKO: First, Hanyu-kun decided on the setlist (order of songs), and then he wrote down the corresponding storylines. After that, he wrote the actual monologue scripts to be used in “RE_PRAY,” and based on this, I created the production plan. Sometimes I would suggest, "I think it would be good if such a scene happened here," and he would agree, "That sounds good. Let's do it that way," and we had these conversations quite often. Then I came up with the idea of "Hanyu-kun holding the game controller on the right, with the game screen on the left," and Hanyu-kun continued to think about the narration that would correspond to that scene. Within the process, we also wrote ideas like "It would be interesting to swap ‘R’ and ‘L’."

-The “R” and “L” also have a contrasting meaning of right and left.

MIKIKO: Exactly. So, in the second half, Hanyu’s position was also reversed left and right. There are a lot of things like that. While this was just a small pleasure for the creators, such wordplay was added during the process, and we often discussed whether “it would be better to end in this way.” The entire production was completed through this back-and-forth process.

-I was surprised to see how well-detailed the visuals were, and the setting where Hanyu controls the game world himself—was this also your idea, MIKIKO?

MIKIKO: After I got the general concept from Hanyu-kun, I thought, "Let's start with this kind of image here”. For example, a scene like "Hanyu-kun enters an 8-bit game world and fights in costumes from his past performances”. After that, we talked to the producer in charge of the video, appointed a director, and decided on a creator. This is roughly how the process went.

-I also truly felt the power and excellence that comes from bringing together top professionals. This time, there was also a program choreographed by you, MIKIKO, for the first time. Is this your first time choreographing for a figure skating program?

MIKIKO: Yes, it is my first time choreographing an entire program. Previously, for Hanyu's performances of DA PUMP's "if…" and Mika Nakashima's "GLAMOROUS SKY" at "Fantasy on Ice," the choreography was done by him, and I just gave some suggestions for modifications. For example, I gave some advice from a dance perspective, "Here, it would be better if the hand direction is this way." In the process, I also took the opportunity to learn some figure skating techniques. This time, however, I choreographed an original piece using a song by Shiina Ringo.

-Did Hanyu ask you to help choreograph a program?

MIKIKO: Yes. We also decided on the song selection together. This was the second program in the first half. When everyone was discussing "Can we arrange any good music here that will make people immersed in it?", he proposed "I want to add some music that is different from what I usually listen to", so I sent him a collection of songs that I thought would be suitable. Among them, he chose Shiina Ringo's "Chicken, Snake and Pig".

-Choreographing for figure skating must be different from choreographing for dance on the floor, right?

MIKIKO: I definitely felt that it was very challenging. It’s similar to how some parts of "GIFT" were done based on a lack of knowledge about ice shows, and I approached it with a similar lack of understanding about figure skating choreography. I would think about the upper body movements as I would for regular dance. On the other hand, for the footwork, I could only suggest things like "I think you should move back and forth a few steps, then a few steps forward." I could only convey the image like this. So, it’s not so much me doing the choreography alone, but more of a collaboration. Even though it was difficult, it felt like "full of possibilities" because there are things that cannot be done in floor dance.

-What you can’t do on land but can do on ice is to move while skating, right?

MIKIKO: Yeah.

-Do characteristics of figure skating have a positive effect in showing dance?

MIKIKO: Ah, I think this is a very difficult thing. After all, the feet have to keep gliding on the ice. In particular, the dance movements I designed are movements where the feet are like buckles (fixed) while coordinating with the upper body. If the foot movements are not consistent, it will be very difficult to move the upper body. So, I think he really practiced a lot for this program.

-The transfer of the choreography on land to the ice must have been done by Hanyu himself, right?

MIKIKO: Yes. The footwork was entirely finalized on the ice. Initially, I choreographed the dance for the entire song, and after rehearsing with the mirrors, he memorised the movements and then tried them on the ice. Later, adjustments were made at the Sendai rink, such as "If we do this move here, it won't work," or "Let’s remove this part of the dance and focus on the footwork."

-This program seems to be based on the image of a straight line?

MIKIKO: Yes, before choreographing, we already had the image of "moving forward on a single path, against the wind." So, I thought of using lighting and lasers to create a path on the ice, designing movements that made it look like not wanting to leave this path. It was choreographed with many intentional constraints.

-In figure skating, where movements are typically curved, maintaining a straight path must indeed be very difficult?

MIKIKO: That's true. So, the fact that he manages to skate without being hit by the laser light is already quite impressive. Though, again, I’m not very knowledgeable about these details, so I’m just guessing (laughs).

-It seems that Hanyu’s technical skills were crucial in achieving such a performance.

MIKIKO: I really think so.

-As a choreographer for dancers and artists, how do you perceive Hanyu’s performance as a performer?

MIKIKO: His dedication to performance, daily lifestyle, and the preparation he undertakes to perform in front of an audience are things that I think everyone should learn from. If I were to evaluate, I would say, "I’m very grateful for him showing us that kind of attitude."

I have been working with BABYMETAL since they were in the fifth grade, and with Perfume for 25 years now. Although sometimes I feel sad that so much time has passed, but because they have always worked tirelessly, I genuinely hope they can create something that touches people’s hearts, which is why I haven’t given up over these 25 years.

And among this, someone like Hanyu, who has numerous fans and has won gold medals, still feels that he is "far from perfect" in the art of expression and continues to pursue it relentlessly. When I learned that he had put in such a huge effort, I really sighed, "It really is so." To me, achieving a performance that genuinely touches people’s hearts and standing in front of others can only be done through such a life-or-death effort.

-Hearing such sentiments from someone like you, MIKIKO, really makes me think how remarkable Hanyu is.

MIKIKO: I think he probably won't lose to anyone at this point. Although it may be a bit strange to say that he "won't lose to anyone", he really worked hard to the point where people would think that (not losing to anyone) is "natural".

-In the solo show, he performs more than 10 programs by himself. He hardly ever takes a break, even while the video is playing between performances.

MIKIKO: Yes, after all, he still has to change costumes.

-During the ice show, will you see Hanyu backstage?

MIKIKO: I was sitting on the audience side, observing the overall effect in the venue, so I didn’t see the backstage.

-How did you feel while watching the show?

MIKIKO: As I mentioned earlier, I only watched figure skating as an ordinary viewer, so I’m completely unfamiliar with the details of the competition. As for the performance, "Messenger of Ruin", it included many high-difficulty jumps and spins—so much so that it could even be directly entered into a competition, right? I watched that program every time and gradually began to understand the timing and difficulties of the jumps, so during the official performance, I felt like, "Ah, please!" If I were his mother, I would probably be too anxious to watch, thinking "I want to go outside…" I’d be scared to that extent. There’s this kind of drama in just two and a half minutes, and even if he made a mistake in a jump, he’d have to continue skating without losing heart. The more I know, the more afraid I become. But at the same time, I could see that the fans were moved by this, and I think I also understand what it means to fight alongside him.

-In the program "Messenger of Ruin", what he challenged himself was to skate an already difficult skating composition without making any mistakes. Even after becoming a professional, he must continuously evolve, which is probably also the driving force behind Hanyu's progress.

MIKIKO: He didn’t say he was retiring, but used the term “turning pro” I think he practices and embodies this in his daily life.

-Figure skating is a sport, but the artistic component is also significant. Has your view of the sport changed through your interactions with Hanyu?

MIKIKO: I sometimes thought that the dilemma he felt when he was a competitor was reflected here. The world of expression is influenced by individual preferences, and there is no so-called standard answer. Because of this, it is a world of both joy and pain. While scores can simplify things in competitions, they can also bring about significant pain. In the absence of a clear answer to the question "What is the standard?", it would be more fitting for him, who has been relentlessly pursuing his own expression, to go to a world where there is no answer.

Even though we live in a world without scores, technique is still essential before performance. In other words, it should be performed by people who already possess technical skills. So, what he does is not fundamentally different from what we do. First of all, having skill is a given; in my view, it is only those whose expressiveness is so strong that people forget to admire their "skill" who are truly remarkable.

In this sense, Hanyu jumps so easily and lightly, and expresses them so easily, that viewers don’t understand how difficult it is. So, we keep asking him for more and more (laughs). But I think this is a requirement for someone who reaches the "professional" world.

-What you said is very meaningful.

MIKIKO: You first need to have technique, and then think about how to express music and emotions. I think that’s the way it should be.

-I feel that his solo performances have really transcended the traditional boundaries of figure skating. What Hanyu aims to achieve can no longer be summarised with just "skate".

MIKIKO: I think that's indeed the case. What will he create next?

-I am looking forward to him surpassing everyone’s expectations once again. Changing the topic, the ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu Notte Stellata 2024" was held in Miyagi Prefecture a few days ago.

MIKIKO: I was also there to watch it.

-Hanyu skated the solo program "Danny Boy". This song was recommended to him when he appeared on Gen Hoshino's TV show. It turns out that Hanyu was also greatly influenced by Hoshino.

MIKIKO: That's right.

-He also performed "Koi Dance" at an exhibition, and I was reminded once again that there was a connection with MIKIKO there as well.

MIKIKO: At that time, Hanyu-kun was dancing "Koi Dance" with his friends in a sort of lounge area, and the video spread on Twitter. After I found out, I silently posted something like " Yuzuru-sama also did the Koi Dance…" (laughs). He told me, "I already knew this." and said, "I thought at that time: 'It's been conveyed!'" (laughs).

-Hearing these stories from then to now is truly moving. How did you feel after watching "Notte Stellata"?

MIKIKO: Both "Danny Boy" and "Carmina Burana", which he collaborated with Mao Daichi, were choreographed by figure skating choreographers. When I look at them objectively, I reaffirmed their excellence. Then, what surprised me was to see how much his body had changed after the Yokohama performance from the Saga performance of RE_PRAY.

-He himself said that the Saga performance was physically tough.

MIKIKO: During this period of more than a month, I think he himself had a strong desire for revenge. There was a feeling of "I will change!" Wasn’t he also working on choreography for “notte stellata” at the same time? And he had to further polish his new programs. Under these conditions, there were significant changes in his skating style and strength, making me feel "Wow, he’s still evolving", and in a sense, it was also "terrifying".

-Probably the tension of facing the ever-evolving Hanyu.

MIKIKO: After watching the actual performance, the video creator of the ice show had a sparkling look on his face. It was obvious that the staff working with him felt it was rewarding, and I think that's because Hanyu-kun gives so much back to us in the actual performance. This is truly a give-and-take relationship; motivating the staff and making them feel the value of their contributions is essential for the performer. Because of this, we feel that "we must create excellent works." Through his performance and attitude, he has built a very positive relationship.

-I often hear the same sentiments from the staff involved in the shows.

MIKIKO: That's true. Watching him practice, it instantly makes you want to get serious and not be half-hearted. It’s hard to express, but you definitely can’t slack off. If everyone doesn’t perform at a high standard, there will definitely be something that feels out of place.

-It’s precisely this attention to detail that makes the ice show so high-quality.

MIKIKO: I really think so.

-Thank you for sharing so many valuable insights. Lastly, do you have any expectations or hopes for Hanyu’s future achievements?

MIKIKO: As I have said in various interviews, as someone who has been in the entertainment industry, having seen and created many things, I want to believe that “there are things that Japan can be proud of”. When I saw the actual performance of "GIFT", I felt that this potential was further expanded. It felt like witnessing "the moment a new door open" to an unprecedented world of entertainment, where figure skating is combined with visuals, lighting, and music, creating a tremendous synergy.

So, I hope more people can appreciate his ice shows and that those who need to see it will have the chance to enjoy it. While making Hanyu’s fans happy is a primary goal, I also hope to move those who aren’t normally interested in such performances, so that people from other fields in the world can also be touched.

He is truly doing something very difficult. Both physically and mentally. In order not to crush his potential, we also want to work tirelessly. It would be great if we could try our best to do something to support him. Although it is a bit exaggerated to say this, I hope it will benefit Japan and the world.

Source: Quadruple Axel 2024 #羽生結弦 SPECIAL pg 76-81 Info: https://x.com/AxelQuadruple/status/1790024157121351998

[hikennosabo]

i was tagged twice earlier today so i'm doing these before i go to bed. ty for the tags :>

tagged by @iwritenarrativesandstuff:

describe yourself in five characters

axel (kingdom hearts)

mikorin (gekkan shoujo nozaki-kun)

hamuko arisato (persona 3)

cloud strife (ff7)

kei tsukishima (haikyuu)

tagged by @deludedfantasy:

rules: shuffle your 'on repeat' playlist & post the first ten tracks, then tag ten people 🎶 (But please do not feel pressured to do so.)

brother - gerard way (TYPICAL. OF COURSE.)

g.i.n.a.s.f.s. - fall out boy

heaven help us - my chemical romance

the ghost of you - my chemical romance

the ballad of mona lisa - panic! at the disco

the sharpest lives - my chemical romance (i'd apologize for all the mcr but. lol.)

fool's paradise - tsuneo imahori (trigun ost!!! :'D)

this is how i disappear - my chemical romance

save yourself, i'll hold them back - my chemical romance

maya the psychic - gerard way

sorry for having the music taste of a 15 year old in 2007 actually no i'm not sorry

tagging uhhhhh @felinewasteland @astr0nomically @rivalcobalt @morphogenetic @lovely-english-rose and whoever else wants to do them. tagging for both memes, two for one