#Citron & his brothers

[riddlerosehearts]

god put them in different media because he knew they'd be unstoppable as canon besties

[winter-spark]

Do you guys ever think about the amount of pressure and how draining it must be to have been Orange growing up?

No no like seriously think about it, think about it.

When everyone found out that Citron would be next in line for the throne, Orange was dragged into the spotlight with him. It had to have been from the jump that people who didn't want Citron, the son of a commoner, as King latched onto Orange.

"Orange would be a better fit." "Orange should be king." "Why the son of a commoner when the next son isn't one?"

Like Orange probably heard stuff like that all throughout his life, that's a lot. To immediately be put in a box as a better fit for ruler, and you know it was a lot of pressure because he then dedicated his life to proving that point. He had to be better than his hard-working, calculative, already training/set-to-be-the-King older brother, when from the get-go people preferred him.

Sure Citron worked to win over the public's opinion but don't you think that hurt more? So many thought you'd be a better fit and now they're saying your brother is a good fit, that they're happy and satisfied with that? What? Was your hard work not good enough? Were you somehow worse than him? Did you dissatisfy the people?

Orange grew up feeling in constant comparison to Citron. Feeling in the eye of the people. Knowing that if anything happened to lead to Citron not being King, he was next up. And even with the number of people who liked Citron, there were still people who thought Orange should be King instead, including extremists, one of which worked for Orange directly for who knows how long. He couldn't relax, he couldn't quit, he didn't have the room to.

They tell us that Citron couldn't get along with his brothers because the competition for the crown but we don't get to see it from Orange and Navel's perspective much. We know they were curious enough about Citron that they'd copy some things he did, such as reading one of his favorite books. But let's not forget they had a negative takeaway from that book, they didn't get it. Their world, though similar to Citron's, has colored their lenses darker than his, to where they couldn't see the positive over the parts that didn't make sense to them, over the negative. Also, they see Citron as lucky, that he was born under a lucky star. While Citron was the one to say they then must've been born under unlucky stars, they already were somewhat thinking that to point out how lucky Citron is. After all, they had to have been comparing his luck to something to conclude he was lucky.

Being Orange was being bitter and cold and working hard to accomplish a goal. A goal many thought you were suited for, to the point that you believed it yourself, that you had to prove it to your father-- to everyone, that you had to be ready if it ever came to pass. And that's what he did.

He worked hard, and plotted, and schemed, and grew so desperate. And it wasn't even because he hated Citron. Because he doesn't hate Citron. Orange resents Citron, he thinks it should've been him instead, he thinks he needs to prove himself better than Citron, he thinks Citron is in his way. But he doesn't hate him. If he hated him he wouldn't read his favorite book to try and get that bit of understanding. If he hated him he wouldn't care if Citron died, so long as he got the throne. But he did read that book, and he did care that Citron lived, making it clear that he thought just kidnapping him was suffice. So yea, Orange didn't do all of that out of hatred for Citron, but moreso out of (self)obligation, expectation and determination.

It was hard in his earliest years for him not to desire the crown, the comments against Citron likely initially felt somewhat as a compliment. So of course, it became something more something he just had to make tangible. People believed he could, he believed he could, he just had to get there. He'd been convinced from a young age that this was what he wanted. And maybe he really did. But it wasn't easy and all his hard work never seemed to come to fruition.

He worked hard and people grew to like Citron as next in line. He studies to be prince, was days away from his coronation, and Citron shows up for the crown. Orange kidnaps his brother, (says no on the killing of him) to try a last ditch effort of getting the crown because if Citron was coronated he wouldn't get any other chances. But the one person who was supposed to be on his side and listen to him directly, didn't and everything went up in flames, which he didn't want, and he's been stripped of the chances to become king(because he did set up basically an attempted hit on his brother). And his reputation was completely tarnished, being blamed for things he didn't do, such as breaking the translation device.

Of course, Orange's actions are his own and of course he has to make up for the harm he's caused and of course people's view of him was gonna change. But gosh it's so exhausting being Orange, working your whole life for the affection, respect and approval of the people, of your father, and for it all to turn to dust. All that hard work down the drain.

You think he ever wished he was Tangerine? Blissfully out of the race for Crown, able to have time without people looking closely at your actions in comparison to Citron's, able to breathe?

[zorosangell]

⛥ﾟ・。 wedding

SECRET BONUS/prequel to pocus -- (after sample, before merienda) a sneak peak into the reception of your wedding, where a rather interesting conversation took place between the oldest charlotte siblings... the topic concerning you.

cw: fluff, comfort, angst if you squint, katakuri is a bit socially awkward, he is twenty-one (same as daifuku and oven), you are twenty (same as amande), cracker is eighteen, smoothie + sisters are eight, galette and poire are four, raisin is one, katakuri's got it BAD, oven and cracker are kinda skeezy.

a/n: took way too long pt.2 </3 i'm tearing up

"Never thought I'd see the day," Oven smirked, eyeing the Sweet Commander with an amused air. "My big brother... in a suit."

Daifuku chuckled in agreement, taking a sip from his glass with a tipsy grin.

"On his wedding day, no less," the Minster of Beans chortled, swirling his booze around. "I was almost certain he'd walk down the aisle in a leather vest!"

Together, they shared in uproarious, intoxicated laughter, though their noise was promptly drowned out by the particularly boisterous party going on a few feet away.

The party of the century... Charlotte Katakuri's wedding.

Every major player in the New World was in attendance, drinking, laughing, and dancing the night away at what was certainly a celebration for the ages.

Even members of the Charlotte family were joining in on the festivities, serious-types like Perospero and Compote taking a load off for once and enjoying the party.

Hell, Big Mom herself was quite drunk, having broken out into her thirty-second musical number of the night, both her and her screeching homies prancing about the roof of the Whole Cake Chateau with a look of happiness many hadn't seen in a long time.

But, if there was one person who wasn't in the highest of spirits, it was—to no one's surprise—the groom.

With a tired sigh, Katakuri rolled his eyes, ignoring his brothers' inebriated teasing as he hooked a finger on the neck of his tie, loosening it before unbuttoning the top of his dress shirt.

He hated constricting clothes, and was certain if he kept the tie on for any longer, it would strangle him to death.

But, in the same sentiment, he hated everything about this damned wedding.

The bright lights...

The loud music...

The obnoxious party-goers...

Were it not for you—and the rather unscrupulous characters gathered around his family—he would have certainly slipped away by now.

But, alas, it was not in the cards; and he would not be able to truly retire until his mother announced that the party was over.

Which could be hours from now...

At the thought, the furrow in his brows only deepened, turning his gaze into a full-on glower.

"You're rarely this tense, big brother," Amande commented, seemingly out of nowhere, startling Daifuku and Oven.

Of course, Katakuri sensed her coming, and predicted what she was going to say before the words even came out her mouth.

"Should we have reason to to worry?"

Knowingly, Daifuku grinned, waving his little sister off as he poured himself another drink.

"No reason at all," he assured with a slightly teasing tone. "Our brother's just sulking, is all."

"Sulking?!" Cracker exclaimed, drunkenly interrupting the conversation. "At a party like this? With a wife like yours?"

He scoffed, the sound morphing into a boisterous laugh mid-way.

"You're killin' me, big bro."

Lifting his head, Katakuri glanced at his purple-haired sibling, analyzing his uncharacteristic sway and the uneven slur of his words before ultimately surmising that the boy was completely hammered.

'Looks like somebody got into the wine when no one was looking...'

"He does have a point," Oven chimed, thoughtfully, "The party is one thing, but you lucked out in terms of arrangment."

Unanimously, the five turned toward you, each one having their own reaction to the sight laid before them.

You were sitting at the kiddie table, smiling brightly as Smoothie, Citron, and Cinnamon took turns braiding your hair, Galette and Poire at your feet as they played tug-of-war with your veil, baby Raisin cooed softly in your arms.

It was a rather heartwarming sight, which assisted in combating some of Katakuri's tension, allowing his shoulders to sink slightly.

You were so... you that at times it truly baffled the man.

Amidst all this chaos and confusion, all this uncertainty, you still found the strength to remain open-minded and kind, never once becoming cold or changing your tune due to the circumstances.

It was an effectively enviable trait, and one that stupefied him to no end.

How could one woman remain so perfect all the time?

Oven smirked, eyeing you up and down with a rather seedy look.

"Coulda ended up with a lot worse."

Cracker scoffed, pouting like a child as he plopped himself down in an empty chair, dropping his head on the table with a defeated sigh.

"Tch. You can only go down from the top," he grumbled, the booze thoroughly loosening his tongue. "Most eligible hottie in all of Whole Cake... wasted."

Katakuri's jaw ticked at the rather crude comment, forcing him to send a subtle but sharp glare his brother's way.

"Wish Mama had given her to me," Cracker rested his cheek in his palm, donning a rather sleazy smile. "I coulda showed her a whole new world, if you catch my drift."

At that, Daifuku and Oven burst into a fit of laughter, tears welling in their eyes as they slammed their hands on the table, disbelieving of the boy's confidence.

"What would you know, boy?" Daifuku scoffed, thoroughly amused.

"Have you even had your first kiss yet?" Oven raised a brow, honestly skeptical.

Embarrassed, Cracker flushed, sitting up rigidly in his seat.

"Hey, I totally have!" the older teen exclaimed, voice slightly cracking. "I've been with tons of girls!"

"I'm afraid your biscuts don't count!" Daifuku snorted, the comment sending him and Oven falling out of their chairs with hysterics.

Mortified, Cracker turned red as a cherry, furious, as he abruptly stood from the table.

"Screw you guys!" he barked, pointing at the two.

At the pitiful scene, Amande rolled her eyes, face remaining expressionless as always.

"I'd rather she be with Katakuri than you savages," she stated in a monotone. "She's a sweet girl and—"

"Mama mama! Katakuri, tell me!" Big Mom chirped, her drunken footfalls loud and thumping as she made her way over to the siblings. "How is that new wife of yours? Is she enjoying the party?"

Remaining cool, the Sweet Commander simply nodded, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned back.

"She is well, Mama," he answered plainly, not giving her much to work with as to avoid any follow-up.

Sadly... it did not work.

"That's wonderful!" she beamed, her happiness that of a pleased child. "Pretty little thing, isn't she? I knew she would be perfect the moment I saw her!"

Suddenly, an idea popped in her head, one that instantly caused her face to brighten.

"As a matter of fact, where is she? I'd love to have a little chat."

The notion sent a cold shiver down the man's spine, the thought of you alone with his mother introducing a certain feeling in his chest that he hadn't felt in a long time.

Fear.

"Actually, Mama, I think (y/n) and I are going to retire," he seamlessly deflected, standing from his seat with effortless ease. "She has a rather early start tomorrow making your congratulatory doughnuts."

His face didn't betray a single thought running through his mind—most of which about all the ways his mother could kill you if you accidentally insulted her during a one-on-one interaction.

Somehow, he had no idea what he'd do were that scenario to occur.

In fact, the mere possibility of it suddenly brought him a sense of overwhelming and all-encompassing dread.

He needed to get out of there.

And fast.

At the mention of desserts, Big Mom's eyes went starry, all memory of what she was originally saying flying out the window.

"I see!" she squealed, suddenly incredibly excited. "Well, then, please! Take her! I can't wait for those sweets tomorrow!"

Curtly, he nodded, smoothly turning on his heel and making his way over to you.

"All right, then. Good night."

Crisis successfully averted.

Internally, Katakuri let out a deep sigh of relief, the tension building in his back slowly melting away the further he got from his mother.

How he was going to keep this up for the rest of his life, he didn't know.

But—as he looked up from the ground, eyes landing on your perfect form—what he did know was that you looked drop-dead gorgeous in your dress, its cut, style, and color embodying you better than he ever could've imagined.

You were so radiant, so naturally brilliant and bright that he often felt blinded by your looks, and effectively intimidated.

You had a certain way of gazing, and a certain way of speaking, that kept him hanging on to your every word—and rendered him suddenly unable to muster his own.

It was all a mess.

A large, political—if he'd ever admit it, romantic—mess.

But, if one thing was for certain, he was pleased to finally have a moment alone with you on your wedding day.

Even if, due to his crippling shyness, it was in relative silence.

[asordinaryppl]

A3! Homepage Lines - End of Golden Week (2025)

graphics and proofreading by myuntachis! text version under the cut!

Spring Troupe

Sakuya: I met Kasumi-san and her children by chance. We ended up going to the park to hang out.

Masumi: There’s no one at the dorm. Everyone’s probably either out or sleeping. … Hisoka’s sleeping too. Guess I’ll join him…

Tsuzuru: I went back to my family home for the extended holiday… Every time I go back home my little brothers look taller, so I get pretty emotional.

Itaru: BBQ by the riverside is a party animal activity… Welp, who am I to say no if people require my driving services.

Citron: We had a BBQ! But something went very wrong because of the kusaya the fish dealer gave us…

Chikage: We held an advice corner for the workshop’s exercises… It was a fulfilling holiday. Much better than working.

Summer Troupe

Tenma: I passed by the station and saw a comedy festival going on. Pretty sure Citrun were there.

Yuki: Muku and I ordered a cake so cute that we were a little hesitant to eat it.

Muku: I went to a sweets café with Yuki-kun! We shared many kinds of sweets.

Misumi: The workshop was fun! I was worried whether or not I could set a good example, but it seems everything went okay!

Kazunari: It’s GW and we can’t even go for a BBQ. Sadge~ Should I ask Itarun to lend us his car?

Kumon: Azami and I did a Street ACT for Children’s Day. I was a helmet, it was SO much fun!

Autumn Troupe

Banri: I can’t even catch a break during the extended holiday ‘cause there’s too many assignments to finish… I’ll go to a café to take a breather. Wanna come with, Director-chan?

Juza: I went to the cheesecake shop during Golden Week and saw Keiku. He was eatin’ the sweets like they were delicious again.

Taichi: I went for a drive with Azuma-san! I’m really grateful for how subtly he’s on the lookout…

Omi: Everyone enjoyed the workshop. The mentors this time were Chikage-san and Misumi.

Sakyo: The Ginsenkai guys’ kids came over to play during the holidays. I was babysittin’ them and… remembered how Bon used to be.

Azami: I did a Street ACT with Kumon on Children’s Day, but he startled me when he told me to play a koinobori all of a sudden.

Winter Troupe

Tsumugi: I was a little lonely when I went back to my family home since Zabi was glued to Tasuku’s side the entire time. I wonder if he was cold…

Tasuku: Aniki got drunk and started messing with me when I went back to my family home with Tsumugi. … But well, I guess this kinda thing isn’t so bad every once in a while.

Hisoka: I slept in the courtyard because it was warm outside, and before I knew it Masumi was sleeping next to me. Sleeping outdoors feels good too.

Homare: I chanced upon Sakyo-san while paying a visit to the library and recommended he borrow my poetry collection.

Azuma: During Golden Week, I rode shotgun while our Puppy Boy drove. He’s gotten even better at driving, so it was quite comfortable.

Guy: Many people stayed up late during the holidays. I got to experiment with making midnight snacks thanks to them.

Backstage

Matsukawa: I was working during GW, but I finally managed to get some time off! My GW is only just starting~!

Tetsurou: I went… to a hot spring… This is… a souvenir… manjuu…

Akashi: I ended up spending Golden Week with Rento-san… Being active during the holidays is fun, sometimes.

Rento: I bumped into Akashi while out shoppin’, so we hung out a lil~ It really is better ta spend holidays in high spirits!

Sakoda: Aniki told me to take the day off, so I’m thinkin’ of helpin’ Azami today… Huh, that’s not taking the day off?

[diablademon]

I did a list of how long time there were between Charlotte siblings births.

This was made with the idea that Big Mom gave birth each and every year from she was 18 to 60 and never skipped a year. But keep in mind that she apparently gave birth 43 times in 42 years. So there was one year she gave birth two times.

First of Cracker and his sisters are only 5 months younger than Opera and his brothers. I read that children only have a chance of surving being premature birth if its been over 6 months. Because its at 6 months lungs and other organs are fully developed. But this is a show where a woman was pregnant for 22 months so everything goes in this world I guess.

Brûlée and Broyé have two different birthdays, twins being born on different dates arent that uncomman, but Broyé would have been born 9 months after Brûlée, 28 days before Nusstorte. Sounds more like Broyé would be apart of a Quadruplets with Nusstorte and his brothes than a twin of Brûlée. Most likely just a mistake on Odas part.

Perospero: March 14th 19 months

Compote: October 15th 12 months

Katakuri, Daifuku, Oven: November 25th 12 months

Mondée, Amande, Hachée, Effilée: December 10th 9 months

Opera, Counter Cadenza, Cabaletta, Gala: September 29th 5 months

Cracker, Custard, Angel: February 28th -

Zuccotto: - -

Brûlée, Broyé: March 6th and December 26th 10 months or 28 days

Nusstorte, Basskarte, Dosmarche: January 23rd 23 months

Noisette: December 15th 12 months

Moscato, Mash, Cornstarch - December 16th -

Compo, Laurin: - -

Mont-d'Or: April 23rd 20 months

Mozart, Marnier: - December 20th -

High-fat, Tablet: - -

Smoothie, Citron, Cinnamon - October 16th -

Saint-Marc, Basans: - -

Melise: - -

Dacquoise: - _

Galette, Poire: October 19th 12 months

Snack, Bavarois: October 29th 9 months

Prim, Paraline: July 22nd -

Kanten, Kato, Montb: - -

Chiboust: - -

Chiffon, Lola: January 27th 22 months

Mobile, Marble, Myukuru, Maple: November 17th -

Brownie: - -

Joconde: - -

Raisin: March 23rd -

Panna: - -

Mascarpone, Joscarpone: February 27th 19 months

Yuen: October 15th 13 months

Newichi, Newji, Newsan, Newshi, Newgo, Nutmeg, Akimeg, Allmeg, Harumeg, Fuyumeg: December 2nd -

Nougat: - -

Pudding: June 25th 7 months

Flampe: February 11th 20 months

Anglais: October 19th -

Wafers: - -

Wiro: - -

De-Chat: - -

Normande:- -

Doice, Dragée: Ferbruary 21st 14 months

Anana: April 17th

526 months total from start of being pregnant with perospero (Added 9 months to before his birth) to her giving birth to Anana. ~381 of those months she was pregnant (total of 31.75 years spent pregnant) and ~145 months (~12 years) between that being not pregnant. 72% of her prime was spent being pregnant. (46% of her entire life)

Other facts: -When Big mom was 24(?) she joined Rocks Pirates. same year she gave birth to Zuccoto. -Rocks got defeated when Big Mom was 30, the year Mont-d'Or was born. -At 35 Year old Big Mom created her own pirate crew, the year when Melise was born. And as it seems her children become officers in her crew when they turn 15 means Perospero, Compote, Katakuri, Daifuku and Oven all joind the crew as officers at the same time.

I find Big Moms pirates to be very interesting and I want to know more how the development happend. When did tottoland become a candy fantasy land? Did she have to wait untill her children ate devil fruits for that to happen? Or did Streusen turn things into food? Did she leave Rocks pirate to give birth or gave birth at the ship and then left back to tottoland to leave her newborns there? Katakuri and his brothers was apparently born on a ship, but such infomation isnt mentiond for Perospero or Compote. Katakuris flashback showed him and his sibling to grow up in a city, so Big Mom didnt keep them with her.

[tomorrowsdrama]

Omg I love these two smart idiots in love. It’s so obvious these two still care about each other. Pei Wenxuan, you clearly loved your wife in your first life. Why did you let her believe that you had no feelings for her? Li Rong probably wouldn’t have turned to Su Rongqing if she didn’t feel betrayed by Pei Wenxuan. She thought she was the only one who fell in love. It makes sense that she’d put up walls and not trust him anymore.

===

Ooh I am loving the charged energy between these two. When she made him eat the citron knowing full well about his allergy, I thought I’d hate her. But instead, i found myself becoming more invested in her character. You could tell that she regretted her decision but couldn’t stop herself from lashing out anyway because of all those years of hurt and loneliness. And then he willingly ate the citrons (even though he really could have just refused to since all pretenses were gone at this point) to appease her because he partly felt guilty towards her! Omggg. And then I completely lost my mind (in a good way) when she told her servant to go after him and give him a cloak, anti-itch medicine, and silver. Omggggg I can’t with these two. And then I totally died when he said that only she would care to protect his dignity like this. Please just talk it out and make out with your beautiful selves.

===

Omg he tripped his own wife 😂 I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. I was not expecting this hapless clumsy side of Pei Wenxuan.

===

These two are mentally 38 and 40 yet they’re bickering like a pair of teenagers. So childish haha.

===

Girl. GIRL. Your brother annihilated his family and CASTRATED him. Do you really think he’ll forget all of that and live happily by your side as your little man servant?

===

Love that Pei Wenxuan seems like a decent and kind person. They both knew in their hearts that Su Rongqing was the one who poisoned her in their first life yet he still said that there’s no proof so it might not be him to comfort her.

[musicfeedsmysoul12]

Thinking about it, Tenya's parents in the Stationary Trio AU where probably giving out red flags from the moment the future viewing in first year.

Because this IS an overheard AU as well, meaning they know that Izumi is biologically Quirkless, and therefore that any child between her and Tenya will have a stronger version of Engine.

Tenya just didn't notice because he was to high on love, and he doesn't spend too much time with his parents. Tensei didn't notice, being too excited for his baby brothers future and ID's return.

You know who noticed? Momo's mother. Because for some reason her daughter is always an afterthough for those two.

Cause the grandparents meet a lot. And Yaoyorozu Yuzu (for 'citron') clocks that shit right away, as she's used to some of the dismissing language the two Iida's use.

She warns Inko, who's surprised, but starts paying attention and doesn't like what she gleans from their conversations. Her daughter is more than a way to continue their family legacy!!!

(Tsunami gets a scathing phonecall the day after Tenya cut ties.

"She's ten years old!"

"Yuzu-san-"

"Shun is your granddaughter! You're supposed to love and guide her! Not use her as some sort of pawn to keep your 'family legacy' going!!"

The acrid taste of shame burns at the back of throat.)

("My daughter and grandchildren are more than just a way to enhance your so called 'family legacy', goodbye Iida-san."

"I don't-"

The phonecall ends.)

Yes. Just yes.

Here's the thing about Tsunami: She isn't a bad person. She's just one of those self-absorbed women who are so focused on themselves that they lose sight of what is right. She's a good hero and a good businesswoman.

She never had to concern herself about others. She had money, she was beautiful, she loved her husband, and she had two perfect sons. She was a woman of luxury in her own way.

She didn't need to care, and it wasn't like she was being cruel on purpose. She would apologize if needed. If she was wrong.

Pity she won't understand she's wrong until she's holding shattered trust in her hands, staring up at someone she liked, wondering what she did.

Tsunami didn't understand until her sons stop calling. Until she only sees her grandkids on TV.

Until the gifts she sends return unopened.

She'll understand then.

[drtenebrisxii]

Onirica - Farewell

It's been more than a week since the three friends Zubern, Citron and Gaspar arrived to Onirica, to City 242. After erradicating that cult in their first day, they had had a great time in the city in company of Valenya, her brother Basileo, Viridión and the many other people they've met during their short staying, but they came to protect life against those who threatened it and so, the trio knew they had to travel to the rest of Onirica, through the Cities of the New Dominion, in search of the agents of the enemy. And to cover even more terrain, they decided that each of them needed to go to a different place… —Well, my friends, my brothers, the time has come… I just want you to know that I'll miss you, that and…well, that I wish you the best…— —huff, bro, you sound as if we were going to die or something— —By the Creators, Citron…— —Jaja! I'm just messing with you, bro! but really, I'm also going to miss you too, even if it is just because wewon't be together as usual, because I have not the slightest doubt that we'll see each other again, there is no demon that can stop us! So let's wreck those wretches! We'll see who slayed the most once we gather again— —I also trust that we'll meet again, guys, do not worry Gaspar, we are ready for this… let's just not forget to keep our cool, ok, Citron?— —sigh… ok… have a good trip, brothers, let's stay in contact— —Goog luck with your investigation here, looking forward to hear about all the weird stuff you'll find— —See you!—

Citron, Valenya and Viridion boardede the train towards City 226. —Adventure, trips, people and so sooo much more, there I go!! Nyah!! I can't believe this is finally happening— —Yeah, for all the sweet treats, I can't believe it myself, but here we are, let's make this one an adventure worthy of legends— —It will be the greatest adventure of them all! jeje! I'm sure there'll be a movie about it! Meow! I can barely contain my excitement!!—

Zubern boarded the train that was going to City 274 and took sit quietly, already missing his friends.

Once alone, Gaspar and Basileo, who came to send off his sister, left the station, back to City 242. —You are not looking very worried— —And you look very worried…— —We may have the same age, but I've always been like… the one that took care of those two… this is the first time we are going to be on our own and…— —And you are worried you won't be there when they need your help— —I guess you get it and yet…— —…I don't look worried… that's because I trust my sis… she's probably more worried about me than I'm for her, even— —Why would she be? you are the one stainf, not her— —Let's say I'm seen as a felyxin that's too quiet for his own good… or that's what they say—

Wednesday of Onírica! :D Finally, the point where I've been meaning to reach for a long time: the farewell… the three friends are taking their own paths for today and have the hope to meet again in the future, will they? Only time will tell ;3 I hope you like this!! ^^

[lucabyte]

managed to accrue a backlog of namedropped incidentals/lore characters which is... daunting. so... just drawing rough left-facing headshots my beloved

some of these designs have had their roughs/written descriptions around for a while already (the rockets and dj limescale especially being lead in design by @samhainian) and the rest are incidentals with varying layers of in-joke to the designs...

The Rockets - Your Dad's Favourite Band. From Back In The Day. Did 7 albums, each in different genres in which they were basically forerunners. And then one of them (Menken) vanished mysteriously. Band over. Oops. (Also, estrogen makes you green.)

Zavier Summe - Your Grungy Older Brother's Favourite Musician. He's a nice guy though.

Dr. Ruban - Leading academic in studying high control groups. An eccentric man, and seems to have a lot of theories on what happened to that one guy from The Rockets. His legacy will be having his research misquoted and misapplied by teenagers online forever.

Queenie, Chain, Howl, Citron and Mitch: Actual Incidentals. Adults who exist to fill up some background space. Queenie, Chain and Howl, specifically, are former classmates of Miao, filling out her non-existent social life.

DJ Limescale: you know when an album has a bunch of remixes at the end that you don't like? yeah those are his fault. Despite the rave gear getup however, he is devoutly religious.

[yabunishka]

As I promised, more interactions between Citron and his brother

Harris wasn't a good big brother, but he would occasionally defend Citron from they're parents' scolding

And sometimes it didn't end well for him.

They're father really didn't like it when Harris argued back to him.

However, when Citron argued with him, he reacted differently than he did to Harris

So Harris very often took his anger out on others who were unlucky enough to meet him in a bad mood

[taichissu]

17, 36, and 49 for the ask meme!

17. Favorite Harugumi Play

if there are a thousand clockwork's heartbeat fans i am one of them, if there are a hundred clockwork's heartbeat fans i am one of them, if there are ten clockwork's heartbeat fans i am one of them, if there are no clockwork's heartbeat fans i am dead

36. Favorite Doodle

genuinely lose my mind any time i see tsumugi's zabi or citron's fucking uyu creature (honrs)

49. Any favorite Quotes/Trivia?

this one got a bit long so under cut

i'm not actually sure how to answer this one bc there are so MANY trivia i love and i simply don't know how to choose a favorite

i guess some of my favorite trivia (most of it turned out to be akigumi-centered but don't judge me for it too much i just think about them a lot) + (most are pretty well-known, but there might also be some obscure ones, i have no way of knowing what's common knowledge in this fandom anymore):

according to itaru, chikage secretly owns like a shit ton of rabbit trinkets (his last name is a play on words btw, utsuki is written as 卯木 with 卯 meaning rabbit, and additionally it's very close to 嘘つき (usotsuki) which means liar)

my favorite personas the guys become when drunk: kazunari (becomes a formal-speaking senpai), homare (becomes an emotional crybaby (me too)), omi (becomes the mad wolf), banri (becomes a giggly mess, the social kinda drunk who thinks everything you say is the funniest thing in the whole world), juza (becomes extremely honest), the theater idiot trio (tsumugi, tasuku, and izumi; talk about nothing but theater lol)

kumon is a health nut, he's really into working out and eating properly (which is funny considering his brother probably tries to drink shampoo on a weekly basis)

itaru, kumon, hisoka, and homare are all left-handed

kumon is the only one in mankai who azami doesn't use an honorific for - this would be because they met before formally introducing themselves at mankai, so azami can't help but see kumon as younger than himself

according to drama cd, kumon has zero knowledge about cooking and is absolutely useless in the kitchen

it was said before that banri and his sister have very similar faces, but in the marie antoinette event, banri says that he thought he'd pass well as a girl because of that and yet he still looks like a man

banri's sister's favorite mankai members are omi and juza lol she seems to be into muscular guys

banri is the only member of akigumi who's the youngest sibling

that being said, azami is the only member of akigumi who's an only child (everyone else in akigumi is big brothers!)

juza used to be a member of shogi club when in o-high but he was a ghost member and we don't know if he can even play it lol

banri is lowkey obsessed with soy milk for whatever reason and drinks it everyday lol (is it bc of those 2cm juza holds over him?)

another one about juza; it was stated that out of everyone the dorms, he has the worst quality of sleep - this aligns with the fact that according to banri he snores and grinds his teeth in his sleep, which usually results in people sleeping badly

mi-chan's (taichi's little sister) favorite mankai member is azami, ma-kun's (taichi's little brother) is yuki - this makes taichi depressed that he's neither of their favorites

out of mankai: the best (?) singer is juza, and the worst singer is omi (at least based off karaoke score lol banri is still in denial about it)

additionally kumon said that his only good subjects in school were PE and music, so that would imply both of the hyodo brothers have natural musical talent

everyone in akigumi can play at least one musical instrument (first shown in the 2nd anniversary musical etude, later revisited in the rad red)

banri: guitar

juza: guitar / drums

taichi: keyboard / guitar

omi: drums

sakyo: bass

azami: guitar / bass

other than that, i believe yuki can also play the piano, and matsukawa is the MVP

taichi can draw well! (he's probably the only one in mankai who can draw despite not really having a reason to or showing any explicit interest in it (like kazu being an art student, yuki being a designer, muku liking manga))

in my worst wedding, olivia's heels are 5cm high, taichi couldn't move freely when he tried 6.5cm on, and since olivia had to move a lot during the final action scene, yuki settled for 5cm

speaking of my worst wedding, banri is the one helping taichi with the quick costume change before the finale (he got a private make-up training from azami himself to ensure he'd do it properly!)

according to azami; azuma, yuki, and banri have the best skin condition in the dorms

taichi doesn't care to buy his own skincare products and steals banri's lol

tsumugi and chikage have a sort of tense relationship, since tsumugi is a pro at reading people and chikage will do anything not to be read lol

hisoka has heterochromia - he doesn't care to keep it a secret but sakyo made him ensure that he keep it that way to boost his popularity as ミステリアスな人 and keep people on their toes

homare is in great shape because of his experience with ballroom dancing which requires great stamina and core strength

here's the (possibly incomplete) list of characters who are confirmed to have been in relationships in the past: izumi, tsumugi, homare (seriously?? so few?? i must be missing things asklfjsalkf)

here's the list of mankai members who have numbers in their names: chikage (1000), misumi (3), kazunari (1), kumon (9), banri (10,000), juza (10), taichi (1), guy (100,000,000,000,000,000,000)

i was trying to keep this in some sort of order but i literally just started rambling off the top of my head and all the structure flew out the window </3 anyway, sorry for such a lengthy list, i have a hard time choosing a favorite so i just ended up talking about everything i like </33333

thank you for asking anyway!

[winter-spark]

Citron's Love and Limited Self Value Disguised as Coldness & Selfishness!

Okay! So, I said I had thoughts back in December about Citron's coldness & 'selfishness' so let me actually share them now. (I was starting to doubt doing this but one of my mutuals said I should share my thoughts on a3! things and that they'd like to hear them, and this is one I really wanted to share so here I go!)

Intro/Too long; didn't read:

There are three things that I feel are true about Citron:

He loves and values everyone so much.

For the longest time, he saw himself as a title

These things combined into him making decisions that on the surface come off as cold and or selfish but underneath are dripping in love and care.

Table of contents

Paragraphs 1 -3: Fleeing Zafra Paragraphs 4 -6: Joining & Leaving Mankai Paragraphs 7-9: Leaving Guy & Lies Paragraphs 10-14: Citron vs Tangerine and their Dad Paragraphs 15-16: Good now right? Paragraphs 17-22: Tangerine in Citron's Past Role {additional thoughts on this: here.} Paragraphs 23-24: Conclusion

Let's begin with the reason he even fled Zafra in the first place. Citron was being targetted, by those who thought his brothers were better fit to rule than he. And he was aware of this being the reason strange things were happening. At least, seeing as Guy had the suspicion/knew, I don't see why Citron wouldn't have.

Instead of voicing what was going on or raising any suspicions, he just left. He couldn't let them win win because his only value is his role, he's the Crown Prince. It's all he is. But he loves his people and he loves his brothers. He's not going to cause them any problems. They want him gone. Alright, he'll leave, silently without a word to anyone. Is it selfish to leave those who care deeply about you with a word? Well, some people might say, "obviously" but Citron loves so much and refuses to stop existing in the only way he knows, so he couldn't say a word.

What was he supposed to do? Say goodbye to Tangerine and cause him to worry and rouse suspicion on others? Tangerine is very headstrong, he would've wanted to get to the bottom of it(pin on that). Similar thing with Guy, if Citron told him he wanted to leave, Guy likely would have suggested that he say something, if Guy didn't just follow him. He can't really go undercover with Guy around, and maybe he wanted Guy to have a break from being at his beck and call(more on that later). If he announced anything of this to his father, his father would have gotten to the bottom of it. Citron selfishly chose to leave, without a word. But when you think about his motives he wasn't just being selfish, he was trying to protect people because he cares so much.

Then he gets to Japan and ends up finding a struggling theater that just needs a few more hands. He's not gonna stay for long. He can't stay forever. But what's the harm in lending a hand? Afterall, he's always loved the arts.

But then something strange happens. He acts completely different than who he is, completely different than whats expected of him. And they value him anyway. It's beyond just needing another person for the play. They care about him as a person. It's not yet addressed not fully, not really but it's there. And he cares about them. So he pours his heart into them but keeps a distance as best he can, he can't stay he knows this. They can't learn more, they can't care more, they can't be sad about his departure.

Of course, they were gonna be, and of course, Guy was gonna find him. He knew his time was coming to a close when Tsuzuru brought that souvenir. So when Guy arrived, it wasn't the time to dwell on it. On his desires, on his wants. He wasn't allowed to have those. He's the Crown Prince. He must go ascend to the throne lest Orange do. As is his role. As is who he is. As is what he's good for. It's what he's meant to do. He didn't want to leave but he has to and it's going to be sad and hurt. And he loves Mankai, Spring Troupe so much, he doesn't want them to be too sad about his departure. So he creates a list of tasks--a distraction--one for each of them, he can't pretend he's not leaving but he can make it fun and silly for them. Itaru pays for a buffet, Tsuzuru joins him in Manzai, Masumi lets him have some time with Izumi. They're small things to prepare for the goodbye but they can't have an actual goodbye, it'd be too sad. So he gives Sakuya the task of performing with Mankai, something he never plans to do but is something nice for Sakuya to look forward to he doesn't realize the hope he's planting, the hint he's leaving of his own desires, but he does. I believe it's called a Freudian Slip. And that's what he does by putting Sakuya last, with Chikage's Vanishing Citron act before it.

But! Before we move on we can't leave out his love for Guy. Leaving Mankai, Spring Troupe without a real goodbye is harsh, it's selfish, it's unfair, they weren't ready, he left too fast. It was sudden, no one really got any sort of closure. But leaving Guy behind(again) and telling the people of Zafra that Guy held him hostage against his will in Japan, that's cold, that's vicious, that's confusing. That's Citron's love.

When Citron was a little tiny child, he looked at that messed up soldier in training and decided that was his person. And overtime found out just how messed up he was, and Citron wanted to help. He wanted to prove to Guy he wasn't an android, wanted to get him in touch with his emotions to some extent, wanted to get him to be able to do things for himself. Here's where we continue on the "more on that later" point, Citron understands how much Guy has devoted himself to Citron and Citron specifically, and he wanted Guy to be able to be his own person, to have a freedom Citron couldn't have. I like to believe part of the reason he didn't take Guy along with him in the first place was to sort of start that divide, to let him exist on his own, as his own person. We know that goes into him leaving him in Japan with 0 way to return to Zafra. Citron wanted so much for Guy to find his own personhood, and connect with himself, his roots, and he knew Mankai was a great source of support for Guy, because Citron vetted them. Citron loved Guy so much he'd rather be without him than let Guy continue without his own sense of self, his own purpose. His freedom was ending but he wanted to gift Guy with it.

Was it one of the ugliest ways to do it? Oh absolutely, but Citron's quick and analytical. He knew if he just said he intended on leaving without Guy, Guy would have probably followed anyway. So he asked himself how can he ensure Guy's not going to follow him and has a way to remember his past, so he leaves Guy's charm with Izumi and he returns home lying that Guy was at fault for his absence. Guy can't come in, and even though Guy's been cast out of Zafra, Citron can see this as reassurance, he knows Guy is somewhere nice and he knows, in theory, Guy's not coming back to Zafra. Did Citron really never want to see Guy again? Of course not! Like Mankai, Citron loves Guy a lot, but Citron doesn't want to doom people to sorrowful fates.

Take his brothers for example. If Tangerine hadn't been apart of the rescue plot whatsoever, Citron would have done his best to still not rat out Orange and Navel. Citron been knew they wanted him out of the picture. He knew. But he doesn't want them to have to suffer. Even if they were never close like he'd have liked, even if they hated him, even if they were trying to steal the one thing he was allowed to exist as, even if they were trying to kill him. Citron loved his brothers and valued their well-being. He didn't want them to be in trouble surely not behind him and he would've kept that secret to his grave because of that.

But things can't always go how you want them or to your plan. Tangerine (unpinning that earlier point), is very headstrong and he sees things a little more equally. His brothers are all people, and two of them were apart of a plot to kidnap and murder his other brother. He was supposed to keep quiet about that? Lots of people were nearly injured in the event. Of course, he was going to tell his father what happened. Brothers or not that wasn't okay.

And the King, very much like Tangerine, sees things more equally. The King like Citron has a role he must fulfill but he doesn't seem to have the same problem as Citron where it's all he sees in himself(I think, he's seemed to spend very little time with his kids as they grew up so that up for debate), he loves but he can put that aside and think about what's fair for all parties.

It's not fair, for Orange and Navel to simply just be scolded because they are his sons, this was a serious offense, he must treat it as such. It's not fair, for Citron to lie to the people, to lie on his retainer who has done nothing wrong. There are many things to consider. Is him allowing Citron to be an ambassador(was that the word? Idr) of the arts being a little soft on him? Honestly, I don't know, maybe, but he loves his son and he understands that he must have been struggling and in fear of running away because he was being plotted against, not saying anything because he has a big heart. And he just nearly died. He can't let someone so willing to lie over being upfront and stopping issues early on because of feelings be the next in charge, but he knows Citron is very capable and he sees the warmth of Spring Troupe, Mankai with Citron. He understands that where the Palace lacked for Citron, Mankai picked up for it. Citron had a home away from home but also wanted to serve his country. The King, his father, didn't really want to take either away from him. So he gave him a new role, a way he can have both. [How did this become a meta about his dad? lol] This scene, Citron goes through likely a lot of emotions.

Being stripped of his role, the one thing he's lived for, his one purpose in life, the thing he's fought for jeopardizing his relationship with his brothers, his sense of value. That mess is heartwrenching, it's scary. He just failed to protect his brothers from punishment and he lost the one thing he refused to ever actually give up. Now what?

Now, his father gives him a gift. A gift truly of freedom, decorated in a nice bow of still being valuable to his country but also showing him that his value wasn't just his title. He didn't have to be Crown Prince to be worth something. Could he have left the title sooner? Who can say? But right now, his father is basically saying "I love you and I value your happiness" and what more could Citron really ask for? Things are starting to look up for Citron, Guy was able to start healing from his past, Citron gets to return to Mankai and exist and have value and above all be loved. Everything is great.

Except then there's Tangerine.

Many of Citron's problems growing up were tied to him being the Crown Prince, it's restricting, it expects a lot of you, and it's a sad existence. That's how Citron views the title of Crown Prince, even if subconsciously, it's a bad thing to be thrown upon someone. It's something that destroys your sense of worth. How could Citron do that to someone he loves so dearly? He ran off, to be happy, to have a sense of worth outside of the title of Crown Prince, he left his precious little brother for dead, and what kind of person is he to do that? His suspicions "confirmed", when Tangerine shows up unannounced after running away from home.

Citron is so used to seeing himself as "the Crown Prince" he doesn't even consider that Tangerine just missed his brother, or wanted to ask for some sort of comfort or advice or anything like that. Because Citron was the former Crown Prince and Tangerine is the current one. That's where is mind is at. Citron is reliving all those years mentally and worrying that Tangerine is living like he was. Why else would Tangerine run away and come see Citron, who was once in his position? So his love for Tangerine and his pain from only seeing himself as a title combine into guilt, and that guilt turns him cold.

He can't rub salt in Tangerine's wounds by showing how happy he is without the burdens of the crown staring him down. He can't flaunt his freedom. He can't bare seeing Tangerine suffer the way he did. So he frowns and he gets serious. There are expectations of the Crown Prince, too. And Citron has those embedded into his very being. And he tries to somewhat of what you'd expect someone to be after having prepared for a role for years to someone now in their role. And he tries to get Tangerine to go back as quickly as possible. And it's selfish to send someone away because of your own feelings and not what they've done but it's also so complicated for Citron.

He's not mad at Tangerine, he's sad for him and mad at himself and every second Tangerine's there is a reminder of all of that and a show of Citron being a bad influence probably. Citron's used to falling in line and fulfilling duties so as he becomes somewhat of what you'd expect of a serious mentor, it makes sense that he's falling back into that mentally, the proving oneself to the right/expected thing to do. A good older brother/mentor wouldn't let his brother who needs to be preparing for a big event miss practice and possibly the event. A good older brother doesn't brag about how good he has it now that the younger one has it worse.

Of course, thanks to Masumi's patience with Tangerine and Spring Troupe's patience with Citron, he was able to turn his love warm again. But it was a bit rough getting there. Like the other events before.

Honestly, there's so much more that can be focused on about Citron and a part of me wants to go on a tangent about the little slips he has like the wish he'd given Sakuya and how his emotions slip through in other ways like how he got kidnapped and stuff like that. But I should probably reread things again before/if I do that. The important part here is just that I'm so fascinated by how Citron is just so full of love but for so long lack a full sense of self outside of the Crown, (not to say he didn't have interests and desires but more in the sense that nothing he had interest in or desired fully mattered in the long run because it was insignificant to the role he was meant to play, in case I haven't made that clear) and how those things combine into actions that are cold and or selfish but also so layered and so full of care.

Citron is so !!! my heart! Idk how to put it quite into words but I haven't really seen people like full-on analyze him really (outside of some analyzing in fanfictions really funnily enough) and I wanted to just give him a bit of focus. Honestly, it was long over due with how much I talk about his brothers. I didn't even say everything I thought but that's okay. Just means more opportunity for me to talk about him again later.

[otomehoneyybearr]

A3!

Sorry for the long wait!

Act 12 episodes 2 and 3 will be dropped soon!

Maybe 4 too, if I can fit it in my schedule

In the meantime, I wanted to share these birthday lines to the director!

First generation members and the God Troupe are also included!

Spring Troupe

Kasumi: Happy Birthday! It’s much livelier today than usual… Could I join too?

Sakuya: I’m happy to be able to celebrate your birthday again this year! Let’s spend another year doing lots of plays together!

Masumi: Meeting you has made today a special day for me. Wishing you a happy birthday filled with love this year too.

Tsuzuru: Happy birthday, Director. I’d like to express my gratitude again this year through a letter.

Itaru: Keep smiling and be well. May that smile of yours continue throughout this year. Happy birthday, Director.

Citron: Happy birthday, Director! I wanted to shower you with lots of flowers! It was surprising, right?

Chikage: Naturally, your birthday is only today but… could you spare me a little of that special time?

Summer Troupe

Hiro: Happy Birthday. You look nice. I hope you have a happy birthday surrounded by the members.

Tenma: Director, today is a day to be celebrated to the fullest. I’ll give you my present later, so please leave some time for me.

Yuki: Happy Birthday. I’ve stocked up on cute items that would suit you. Please accept it.

Muku: Congratulations, my princess. Today, I’ll be your very own prince.

Misumi: Congratulations, Director! I hope it will be a wonderful triangulation day for you!

Kazunari: It’s my precious Director’s birthday… I, Kazunari Miyoshi, will make you smile lots this year too.

Kumon: Director, Happy birthday! Everyone’s been look forward to today. And me too, of course!

Autumn Troupe

Zen: Happy birthday. If you want a second piece of cake, come to the store. Take the others too.

Banri: Happy Bday. You’re the main character today, so tell me what you want your day to be like.

Juza: Congrats Director. I’m happy to be able to perform under your guidance. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with you.

Taichi: Happy birthday! Today, I’ll spoil you all day long~!

Omi: Congratulations. How about being in the center of a commemorative photo for a change? Don’t worry, I’ll take a beautiful picture.

Sakyo: Congratulations. You… no, sorry. I didn’t think your happy smile would be the same as back then.

Azami: What kind of makeup do you want to wear today? …You’re pretty without any makeup too. Anyway, I’m curious to hear your preference.

Winter Troupe

Syu: I heard it was his daughter’s birthday, so I dropped her off at the dormitory. I hope she enjoys what’s inside.

Tsumugi: Congratulations. Here’s a special bouquet just for you, Director. I’m always grateful to you.

Tasuku: Congratulations. Why don’t you give acting a try, Director? I’ll join you if it’s a street act.

Hisoka: Director, Congrats. I’ll pamper you a lot today. Let’s meet in the attic.

Homare: From next year and beyond, I want to celebrate the day you were born, Director. Congratulations.

Azuma: Ah, It’s your birthday. I’m really happy I can celebrate it with you again. Congratulations.

Guy: Congratulations, Director. I’ll take care of the preparations for the after-party. Have a great day and enjoy yourself.

God Troupe

Reni: With the way you confidently lead the theater company… You’re starting to look more and more like that guy. Make today a good day.

Haruto: I heard it’s your birthday today so congrats. It cant be helped so I’ll treat you to something if you’d like.

Shift: Happy Birthday, Director! Will you come and try the Arakawa family’s special croquette udon?

Madoka: It’s your birthday today, right? Congratulations. My brother was having fun getting ready.

Mankai Affiliates

Matsukawa: Congratulations Director! I’ve created a new birthday song, so please listen to it!

Tetsuro: Happy… Birthday. … Everyone’s... watching over the play…. Their smiles are… lovely.

Akashi: Director, Congratulations. May you be surrounded by lots of warm and gentle light

Rento: It’s more lively than usual. That just shows how much your loved.

Sakoda: Sorry for the wait, Boss Lady! Let’s celebrate as much as we can today!

Mizuno: I heard it was tour birthday, so I prepared this for you, albeit a small one.

Yuzo: “Happy Birthday”. It’s a message from your fans.

▼・ᴥ・▼

[the-himawari]

A3! Citron - Translation [SSR] Curtain Among Cherry Blossoms (2/3)

*Please read disclaimer on blog; default name set as Izumi

---

Tangerine: Quickly, sideways…

*hit, hit, hit*

Kumon: Great job, Prince Tangerine!

Tangerine: This is the last one!

*hits*

Taichi: I can’t believe he cleared it perfectly on his first crack at daruma otoshi. That’s amazing!

Tangerine: That was so fun! I’m going to do it one more time.

Kumon: It looks like Prince Tangerine is really into daruma otoshi!

Taichi: Yep. I’m glad he’s having a blast with it~.

Tangerine: Alright, one more time!

*hit, hit, hit*

Tangerine: Wow! How fun~!

Kumon: Woah, woah, woah! Aren’t they flying a bit too much!?

Taichi: I think it’s fine even you don’t hit them that hard!

Tsuzuru: The pieces are shooting really far away!

Citron: Tangerine is talented at daruma otoshi~!

Izumi: Ahaha…

Omi: Sorry for interrupting your fun playtime, but the food is ready.

Tangerine: Thank you!

Tsuzuru: Hm? There are some unusual dishes here.

Omi: The ingredients are Japanese. But with the help of Guy-san and Mika, I tried to make some variations like Zafran cuisine. Thank you, Mika. You too, Guy-san.

Guy: Not at all. It is us who would like to thank you. I will use these as reference for dishes to serve at my shop.

Mika: 《I am glad I was able to watch Fushimi-sama's wonderful cooking up close. When I return to my home country, I would definitely like to put this experience to good use.》

Citron: He said that Omi is skilled at cooking, so he wants to copy you once he returns to Zafra!

Omi: Haha. I appreciate it.

Kumon: Alright, let’s hurry up and dig in! It smells so good, my tummy’s rumbling already!

Taichi: Same here! I can’t wait to try Omi-kun’s Zafran-style meal~!

-pause-

Tangerine: …

*hit, hit*

Citron: 《…Daruma otoshi? Do you like it that much?》

Tangerine: 《Yes! The way the blocks are flicked away quickly feels exhilarating.�� 《It wonderful that Japanese culture still retains their traditional games of the past without being lost to time.》

*door opens*

Izumi: Ah. Citron-kun and Tangerine-kun. Perfect timing.

Citron: What is up, Director?

Izumi: I’m about to go out to do some shopping. Is there anything you two want?

Tangerine: Oh, Japanese shopping…! I would like to go with you!

Izumi: Eh? I mean, I don’t mind at all…

Tangerine: Yay!

Citron: I will go with you then! I will worry if Tangerine goes alone.

Izumi: Okay, all three of us will go together. I’ll bring the car around right now.

-pause-

Citron: Director’s driving was wild as always! It was fun and thrilling.

Tangerine: It was the best, just like a rollercoaster!

Izumi: Ahaha. I’m glad if you say so. (They basically had the same impression… they sure are brothers.)

Citron: Director, what are you buying first?

Izumi: Right. First off, I want to stock up on daily necessities…

Store clerk: We are currently holding a special event with a giant daruma otoshi! Please do participate, everybody!

Tangerine: …! A giant daruma otoshi?

Izumi: I wonder if that’s the one… It’s really big, isn’t it!

Citron: Oh! It looks really fun!

Tangerine: Nii-sama! Director! I would like to try that!

Izumi: Sure. We came all the way here. You should participate!

Citron: If you’re going to do it, make sure you succeed! I will be cheering for you!

Tangerine: Leave it to me~!

---

previous | next

[asordinaryppl]

A3! 8th Anniversary - MANKAI Company's Second Special Performance: Le Cadeau's Blessings

Two conclusions are bestowed upon them — either live for eternity, or pass in an instant of suffering...

collab with and graphics by myuntachis! text version under the cut!

Upon the vast ocean floats a small island guarded by the Four Great Nations and the Sacred Isle alike.  Since time immemorial, many a great author has dwelled upon this island to produce their works, and before long it came to be known as “The Island Where Stories Are Born”. Stories continue to be created upon this island to this very day. With the intent of protecting and passing on such precious and sacred stories, an academy was founded to raise new librarians.

... Le Cadeau Academy.

This year, 12 new pupils have enrolled into this prestigious institution holding deeply rooted traditions. With an incomplete book given to them as proof of their admission in hand and their unique goals in mind, these pupils take their first steps along the journey to becoming librarians. However, this academy hides a certain “secret”. This secret will bestow upon them choices that will determine their stories’ outcomes. Now, will the stories they weave tell of a happy ending? Or perhaps…

Aubrey (Sakuya Sakuma | Tenma Sumeragi)

“Come, let’s go! Towards a story no one has read before…”

The youngest. When he was but a baby, his grandmother read picture books to him. His honesty and charm make the people around him want to fuss over him.

Kieran (Tsumugi Tsukioka | Banri Settsu)

“I’ll have become a real hero by the time I graduate from this school!”

Jared’s childhood friend. He’s a young boy brimming with curiosity who admires the heroes in the stories he reads. He came to confirm whether the rumor that “librarians don’t age” is true.

Kenneth (Tsuzuru Minagi | Kazunari Miyoshi)

“To think I’d even be noticed by royalty. Haha, that spells the end of my school days.”

The class representative. He had thought of graduating without attracting too much attention, but had the ill fortune to be nominated as class representative. He’s a serious person and tries to do everything he's asked to thoroughly.

Amalia (Yuki Rurikawa | Azuma Yukishiro)

“I’ve been looking for a book since long before I came here. All I remember is its cover.”

A discreet young woman who observes her surroundings from a distance. She can’t forget the book she happened to come across when she visited a bookstore as a kid. Just as she had finally saved up the money to buy it, the bookstore had closed down. She has been searching for that book ever since.

Leroy (Muku Sakisaka | Citron)

“I want to find a chance to become closer to my big brother… That’s why I began writing stories.”

Gordon’s gentle but flunky younger brother. He feels a considerable amount of guilt towards his brother, and is rather self-conscious as a result. Due to that, he’s considerate and capable of maintaining the balance in all kinds of situations. He began writing stories in hopes of repairing his relationship with his brother, but has yet to show them to him.

Gordon (Kumon Hyodo | Omi Fushimi)

“… So sharing things with someone can be fun… I’ve never had this kind of conversation with someone before, so this feels sort of strange.”

Leroy’s older brother. His parents stopped paying attention to him once Leroy was born, and he filled the loneliness in his heart with books. Because of that, he is introverted and taciturn. Put nicely, he’s a low-maintenance young man. He doesn’t understand why his little brother, who has a great many friends, came to the academy with him, and is perplexed by him. (Although not aware of it himself, he’s afraid that just like with his parents, his little brother will take away his beloved stories as well.)

Joachim (Juza Hyodo | Sakyo Furuichi)

“I’ve memorized all you peasants’ faces. You better prepare yourselves this upcoming year.”

He is royalty, the third prince of the Le Cadeau Kingdom which houses the academy. As he will not inherit the throne, he enrolled in the academy in hopes of fulfilling his duties in other ways. Due to having the highest social standing amongst the students, he believed he would be elected class representative, and is hostile towards Kenneth as a result.

Henrick (Taichi Nanao | Guy)

“Sometimes all someone needs is a single story.”

He has a single story he can never seem to forget, and he wants as many people as possible to find such a story for themselves. He’s somewhat narrow-minded and self-righteous. He believes you’ll be okay, so long as you find the one book that will change your life. He often clashes with Meredith due to their difference in values.

Meredith (Masumi Usui | Chikage Utsuki)

“I simply love each and every story that is born in this world.”

He loves every story and every human in this world. Because of that, Henrick finds him to be not serious enough and they often clash.

Jared (Azami Izumida | Homare Arisugawa)

“Crossing paths with a black cat so soon after enrolling has to be a bad omen… Maybe it’s some kind of warning… Trying to tell us not to solve this mystery.”

Kieran’s childhood friend. A gloomy young man. He enrolled after Kieran dragged him into it. He actually wishes he hadn’t enrolled because he finds the idea of a librarian that never ages scary. All his thoughts tend to err on the negative.

Vance (Tasuku Takato | Misumi Ikaruga)

“You choose me? I don’t mind. Looks like we’re going to have a fun school life.”

The vice-representative. He’s a prankster who loves having fun and easily agreed to becoming the vice-representative exactly because he believed he’d enjoy it. He saw a librarian use magic when he was a kid and enrolled in the academy, believing that his life would be more fun if he could do that as well.

Abel (Hisoka Mikage | Itaru Chigasaki)

“I’m not very fond of being left behind, you see.”

He enrolled with a certain purpose in mind. He’s sociable, has excellent grades and conducts himself as a problem-free student, gaining the trust of his classmates and teachers alike.

[yuzokasu]

Guy enters the nursery. “There you are.”

Citron looks up from where he leans his head on the crib. He flashes Guy a smile.

“Your afternoon lessons will begin in fifteen minutes,” Guy tells him, walking towards him. “You have to–”

“Yes, yes, shhh.” Citron points at the baby in the crib. “Keep your voice down, Guy. You might wake up Tangerine.”

Guy goes quiet. He peers at the baby’s face.

“I might have looked like that when I was a baby, but I don’t think you or me could have known that. Do you think he’ll look more like my father when he grows up?”

“We cannot determine that yet. A week old baby’s features are still developing.”

Citron huffs. “You’re no fun.”

He gently rocks the crib. “But I think things will be different this time. If I spend as much time as I can with Tangerine, we’ll get close. And then maybe my other brothers will become close with me too.”

Guy still stays quiet. The two gaze at the youngest prince’s face, sound asleep.

Citron grabs a stool. “I want to carry him. Help me carry him, Guy.”

“It is not safe, Citronia.”

“It is!” he says in a whisper. “He’s tiny enough! And I need to learn how to carry him, anyways.”

He reaches down to grab Tangerine. Guy immediately lunges forward to support Citron’s hands as he lifts him up, making sure Tangerine won’t slip.

Citron, stubborn as he is, doesn’t let go of Tangerine as he’s out of the crib. “Come on, Guy! I can handle it.”

Guy thinks for a while, Citron staring at him as if he can see the gears turning in his head. He eventually lets go, and to their relief, Citron can support Tangerine’s weight.

“See?” Citron giggles, holding him close. “Oh, he’s so cute up close. Your big brother’s got your back always, okay Tangerine?”

Guy feels something indescribable at the sight.