#HIJS LIVE

[bumbelbee]

Mfw het onnoembare je vertelt dat het orkest even niet meer speelt

[euryalex]

(Art by @ziorre)

De grens tussen levenden en doden wordt met de dag dunner. Er is geen rechtssysteem meer. De mensheid sterft langzaam uit. Toch zijn mensen vastbesloten om te overleven en een zo normaal mogelijk leven te leiden.

Noël had een plan. Hij zou overleven nadat zijn moeder hem verliet toen het allemaal begon. Hij zou op voedsel jagen, 's nachts kamperen en de man-bijt-man-wereld overleven die zijn leven was geworden.

Zijn plannen vallen echter in duigen wanneer hij na tien jaar wordt herenigd met zijn zus Julie. Hoewel hij zich niet kan herinneren waarom hij en zijn moeder jaren geleden zijn vertrokken, herinnert Julie zich alles.

In tegenstelling tot hem bewandelt zijn zus een ander pad. Een pad dat leidt naar wraak en dood. En zo komt hij erachter wat voor soort man hun vader was, en waarom zijn zus onvermurwbaar is hem te vinden. Wat Noël nog niet weet, is hoe ver Julie zal gaan. Misschien weet hij ook niet hoe ver hij zal gaan.

Hallo!

Ik heb mijn eerste boek geschreven! Het is ongeveer klaar maar ik zoek altijd feedback. Je kan het vinden op Wattpad!

---

The line between the living and the dead becomes thinner every day. There is no longer a legal system. Humanity is slowly dying out. Yet people are determined to survive and live as normal a life as possible.

Noel had a plan. He would survive after his mother left him when it all started. He would hunt for food, camp at night, and survive the man-bites-man world that his life had become.

However, his plans fall apart when he is reunited with his sister Julie after ten years. Although he cannot remember why he and his mother left years ago, Julie remembers everything.

Unlike him, his sister follows a different path. A path that leads to revenge and death. And so he learns what kind of man their father was, and why his sister is adamant about finding him. What Noël doesn't know yet is how far Julie will go. Maybe he doesn't know how far he will go.

Hello!

I wrote my first book! It's ready but I'm always looking for feedback. You can find it on Wattpad

[laurasimonsdaughter]

Een gekke vraag: zou je variaties kunnen maken op "Roodkapje", "De drie biggetjes" en "De wolf en de zeven geitjes" waarbij de wolf buikpijn krijgt nadat hij zijn prooi heeft doorgeslikt?

Well, I'm sure it would be possible to include the big bad wolf getting a stomach ache in a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Little Pigs, or The Wolf and the Seven Young Kids, but I don't think it would particularly add something to the plot.

Of these three tales Little Red Riding Hood has the most variations. There are versions where grandmother and Red Riding Hood both die, versions where only Red Riding Hood survives, and versions where they are both cut out of the wolf's stomach after being swallowed whole. Those versions usually say that the wolf falls asleep after having such a big meal and I suppose you could easily add in a stomach ache, but it wouldn't change much.

In several of the "cut the wolf open" versions, the wolf's stomach is afterwards filled with stones. The same trick is used in the Grimms' The Wolf and the Seven Little Kids. Interestingly enough this doesn't seem to cause the wolf pain, it just makes him very heavy, and sometimes thirsty.

In the oldest (I think) version of The Three Little Pigs (the one collected by James Orchard Halliwell in The Nursery Rhymes of England), the wolf eats the first two pigs and only the third survives. Again, in this version giving the wolf repercussions for eating a whole pig isn't unreasonable, but it wouldn't immediately change the story. Besides, there are many variations that choose to let them all live and focus on horribly killing the wolf (or fox) instead.

So unless I have misunderstood your question I don't really see a lot of storytelling opportunities here. Perhaps stomach aches don't really feature in these types of tales because the wolf is supposed to be a monster and they cannot have too obvious a physical weakness.

The only story I can think of where a character eats another character and is then physically punished for it until the victim is let out, is the tale of Ananzi and the Baboon (published in 1859 by George Webbe Dasent, in the appendix of Popular Tales from the Norse, collected from "a West Indian nurse".)

Maybe this story was influenced by the more "medical horror" type folktales with the "snake lives in person's stomach" motif. But it feels very different to me, because (just like the big bad wolf) Ananzi eats the Baboon on purpose and is then punished for it and both survive in the end. Which, as far as Anansi/Nanzi stories go, is a perfectly happy ending!

[miseryscrowned]

Six Song Soundtrack

Tagged by @dragonologist-phd, this is literally the perfect challenge tysm for the tag!

Rules: If you're tagged, make a new post with links to music and/or lyrics describing the following:

An event that defines your character's past

How your character sees themselves

How others view them

Their closest relationship (platonic or romantic)

A major fight scene

End credits song

I have the habit to make playlist for some of my characters, these are from my Dardanos Playlist

Dardanos Soundtrack

1. You’ll Understand - Almah

« You’ll understand all this domain is something you will never tame, through all the slow incessant pain that then made you what you became! Just face your own terror and rise up again! »

As a young Dardanos is consumed by hatred for a world where he’s shunned and alone, the demon who made a deal with his parents before he was born comes to take him to the Hells, speaking these words.

2. One Man Army - Ensiferum

« I will take the lives, lives of my enemies, yet still this battle feels like a defeat to me. Death or victory only emptiness I feel. The spring of hope runs dry, because I'm already dead inside. »

Dardanos sees himself as a killing machine, he doesn’t think he’s capable of feeling hope, happiness or love, only self preservation.

3. Herboren in Vlammen - Heidevolk

« Ziet hen rennend over de heide, vlammend in schaamte voor het ontij dat hij verspreidde. Laat hem lijden en vervloek de dag dat hij de wereld dit onheil bracht. »

« See him running over the moor, burning in shame for the bad times he brought, let him suffer and curse the day that he brought this disaster to the world. »

Dardanos is seen by most in Goudenhaven as not only a murderer but a sort cursed evil demon and even a bad omen, someone who brings disaster, misfortune and death, a lot of this is due to his brutal methods and his trademark: arson.

4. Epilogue - Fleshgod Apocalypse

« I’ll touch your heart again, waken the cold lonely dreamer, I will illuminate your soul wounded by emptiness… »

« I had to face all this scorn, staining my own land with useless tears. Look, now I am too tired to fight and run away from this filling light. »

Saskia is a Stadsridder of the city of Goudenhaven who crossed paths with Dardanos multiple times, she’s able to see through all his defense mechanisms and believes that he’s capable of good. Dardanos on the other hand hides his feelings for her believing it to be a weakness and keeps running away from her.

5. Now We Die - Machine Head

« I need your help for I have knelt, held fist at skies and cried out, “why?” Your shoulder strength, it gives me length. We lift ourselves, together meld, so take my hand, and don't look back… »

The battle of the Black Sun: the city of Goudenhaven is being taken over by vampire cultists and the Stadsridder Saskia is close to giving up as she’s trying to help her injured mentor, Dardanos shows up and convinces her to fight together to save the city.

6. My Negation - Dark Tranquillity

« How can you see my face? What’s to become of me? The art of reduction, stripped down through what seems defendable, scaled to bare revisions to stop making sense, levelling pillars of towering fear… »

As the battle of the Black Sun comes to an end Dardanos finds that his own defense mechanism of anger, violence and fear is crumbling and he’s unsure of who he is underneath and who he will become without it.

~

It seems like I make everything about Dardanos lately, I can’t help it he’s one of my favorite ocs, I def projected a lot of myself onto him (namely my taste in music and my mental health) <3

Tagging: @fantastic-mr-corvid @inquisibrenda @ravencrowley7 @alma-amentet @fllagellant

@blighted-elf @goddevouringserpent @dujour13 @izar-tarazed @wizzardyke

@my-dumb-obsessions @velnat004

Tag List

[ilivelikeimtrying]

Book side of Tumblr! I need help finding a book for my sister!

So, back in Mavo (or middle school for other places) she read a book that had an orange-colored book cover with a tan boy on it. The book was about this young boy who lived with his sister in a boring neighborhood, and he was bored until new neighbors moved in, another young boy and his grandpa. The sister in the book apparently died after being hit by a car. The boy and his grandpa turn out to be aliens, and my sister insists that they are turtle aliens, who help the boy get his sister back using time travel, but they (the boy and his friend, the turtle alien) never see each other again and apparently the boy doesn't remember his neighbor at the end either. We've been looking for it everywhere, but can't find it, though we found many others looking for the same book. If anyone could help us find the book, it would be very much appreciated!

For more information, it was a Duth/Nehterlands book with, I think, the word Neighbor/Buurman in the title (Something Like, 'My Neighbor/Mijn Buurman' in it or something). The book is probably from around the late 20th to the early 21st century. It was read in Mavo (Middle School-ish), so it was most likely a kids book or a teen book, for ages 11/12 and up.

-

Boekzijde van Tumblr! Ik heb hulp nodig bij het vinden van een boek voor mijn zus!

Dus toen ze terug was in Mavo (of op de middelbare school voor andere plaatsen) las ze een boek met een oranje boekomslag met een lichtbruine jongen erop.

Het boek ging over deze jonge jongen die met zijn zus in een saaie buurt woonde, en hij verveelde zich totdat er nieuwe buren kwamen wonen, een andere jonge jongen en zijn opa.

De zus in het boek stierf blijkbaar nadat ze door een auto was aangereden.

De jongen en zijn opa blijken buitenaardse wezens te zijn, en mijn zus houdt vol dat het buitenaardse schildpadden zijn, die de jongen helpen zijn zus terug te krijgen door middel van tijdreizen, maar zij (de jongen en zijn vriend, de buitenaardse schildpad) zien elkaar nooit. nog een keer en blijkbaar herinnert de jongen zich zijn buurman op het einde ook niet meer.

We hebben er overal naar gezocht, maar kunnen het niet vinden, ook al vonden we vele anderen die naar hetzelfde boek zochten.

Als iemand ons zou kunnen helpen het boek te vinden, zou dat zeer gewaardeerd worden!

Voor meer informatie: het was een Nederlands/Nederlands boek met volgens mij het woord Buurman/Buurman in de titel. Het boek dateert waarschijnlijk van eind 20e tot begin 21e eeuw. Het werd gelezen in het Mavo (Middenschool-achtig), dus het was hoogstwaarschijnlijk een kinderboek of een tienerboek, voor kinderen van 11/12 jaar en ouder.

[sugdenlovesdingle]

Oh mijn god mensen kijk Bar Laat (terug)! Ik ga stuk!

Reinier van den Berg (weerman) tegenover een pvv staatssecretaris over het klimaat

Hij legt aan de hand van wetenschappelijk bewezen feiten uit dat het klimaat naar de kloten gaat - met orkaan Milton in Florida als voorbeeld, en hij zit recht tegenover de pvv muts, en kijkt haar steeds recht aan - en de camera focust ook steeds op haar en ze doet ZO HARD HAAR BEST om d'r gezicht in een plooi te houden.

En dan vraagt Sophie Hilbrand wat zij er van vindt en of ze niet beter een noodwet voor het klimaat kunnen maken in plaats van een voor een niet bestaande asiel crisis.

"ja maar wat ik me afvraag is voelen die mensen dat ook zo? Ervaren die mensen die klimaatverandering ook zo?"

En je ziet Reinier van den Berg gewoon the will to live verliezen. Hij zit nog net niet “BITCH PLEASE, je ziet toch wat er aan de hand is?!“ maar het scheelt niet veel.

Ik voel z'n pijn maar het is geweldige tv.

[harrowharks-iliac-crest]

Day One

Regarding Nona—Hot Sauce is watchful—The City has a bad day—Nona gets a bedtime story—Five days until the Tomb opens.

Some kind of log. Some kind of countdown. The tomb will open! Is the whole plot of this book (well, Nona's part, anyway) just over five days?

Because, I assume, Alecto the Ninth would start when the tomb opens - I think it said so at the end of Harrow the Ninth.

Let's see.

1

“I like it. I like the water, I like her hands.” “Her hands?” “They’re the things around me—maybe they’re my hands.” The pencil scratched loudly on the paper. “How about the face?” “It’s the picture face.” The sketch they’d made for her, the one locked in the secret drawer where they put all the really interesting things,

Nona is recounting a dream, or a vision. The water could be water from the River, or water surrounding the Locked Tomb - the person whose hands and face she sees is the person on the picture. Whose picture?

Gideon? Harrow? Wake? Alecto?

I have nothing to go on here, so it remains open.

Being the worm with problems did not worry her. Just being able to dress herself was charming. In the bad old days she used to have to be helped even with the nightshirt, because she couldn’t be trusted not to get stuck with it halfway over her head and get all hot and upset from claustrophobia. It was incredibly important that she not get upset like that again. She had only ever had two tantrums in her life, but it would be humiliating to have a third.

They weren't wrong. I fucking love Nona already. Worm with problems? Getting stuck in clothes and having a meltdown? I relate.

But all Camilla said was, “Don’t hyperextend,” crushingly, and worse, “Go see if Pyrrha needs help with breakfast.”

Okay, so we have Camilla and Pyrrha - there were three mentioned in HtN's epilogue, and I assumed it was Camilla, Coronabeth and Judith, since those three stuck together for the duration of HtN. Apparently, I was wrong.

She hedged cunningly. “At least please can you write down, I love you, Palamedes, please, from me? At least write, I love you, Palamedes, from Nona.”

Palamedes! Is Camilla writing things down for him...? For the future?

There was thin blue light coming through the joins in the curtains, and an orange glow from the worn-out hot plate mostly blocked by the other person she lived with.

Pyrrha. "The other person"... does that mean...??

She counted up the tally marks and said, “That’s the seventh one this month. But that’s not fair when you keep making them. Palamedes will say you’re skewing the data.”

Palamedes is here referred to as an active resident...!!...

Nona ate while Pyrrha brushed out her hair in short, brisk strokes, letting its fine black sheets fall over Nona’s shoulders.

Noting the colour black here; not red, like I'd theorised from just seeing the cover. Black hair opens up a whole new other realm of possibilities. Could Nona be living in Harrow's body? Pyrrha's presence suggests this might be the case - as she was with Harrow's body at the end of the last book; or, once again, it could be someone entirely different. Perhaps they're even dyeing her hair.

Camilla said unhappily, “Eggs? Have we not invented a new protein?” which meant it wasn’t Camilla at all. The easiest way of telling who was who was in the eyes.

And there it is - confirmation of what I was suspecting! Camilla and Palamedes have achieved some form of Lyctorhood, Palamedes is alive in Camilla's body!!

Yaaaaay!! My boy is BACK and I predicted correctly! Didn't think it would have already happened at this point, but hey, I'm not complaining.

Oh, but this bit is interesting as well, right after:

Palamedes had soft cool eyes of brownish grey, like bare ground in the cold mornings when Nona had been little,

So Nona has some childhood memories - are they hers, or her body's? Does the distinction matter? Yeah of course it does - if Nona has her own life and her own memories, it shouldn't be that hard to figure out who she is - they still don't know. If she's hijacked someone else's body, doesn't know who she is and is remembering someone else's childhood, that would be a very different story altogether.

Moving on:

“Then this is our last chance to make a difference. Give us orders, Commander.” Pyrrha was audibly chewing. “Stopped being that when I died, Palamedes. It was a courtesy title, anyway, and there’s an embarrassment of commanders here if you want ’em.” “Pyrrha,” he said, “why are they running now? Why would Blood of Eden run when they have the best hand they were ever dealt? Why would they run when common sense, good tactics, and foreknowledge must tell them all that this is the best moment to make a stand? The time you’ve spent—the insights you’ve had that nobody else has been privy to—and you’re truly telling me you don’t even have an inkling?”

This is really interesting - are they with the Blood of Eden or not? They are discussing tactics, as the area they're living in is clearly being fought over. Pyrrha wants to run away, Palamedes wants to save people - a bit of a deadlock.

Pyrrha balanced a mirror on the table and shaved her face. Nona loved the clean, bright smell of shaving soap, and to see Pyrrha swiftly and expertly scrape the dark russet-brown stubble off her cheeks and from around her mouth, and the little wet red marks that appeared. When she reached over to touch one freshly smooth cheek, the marks were already wrinkling up and disappearing.

Interesting - not only the gender stuff going on here, but that Pyrrha clearly still has some Lyctoral powers despite Gideon having perished in the River. Do Camilla and Palamedes have the same?

That was the whole problem, wasn’t it? Nona wouldn’t cough even if the wind blew the smoke straight into her face, and Pyrrha wouldn’t burn any colour other than her deep cool brown.

Points for Nona being in Harrow's body, also with Lyctoral powers. Where's Gideon Nav in all this?

They have protocols for going out - hiding, waiting, code words. Camilla wants to fight - Heralds? Are the Resurrection Beasts still after them? I suppose they would be, if they hunt Lyctors, and there's three right here, even though none of them are "standard" Lyctors.

What a great chapter, a great start. I can't wait to read more.

[unhonest-iago]

You Know Dutch?

repost/reupload w/ corrected Dutch as it was pointed out to me by an AO3 commentor.

Gn reader

‘Do we have to?’ Fundy whined as he put on his tie. ‘Yes, we promised we’d go and now we’re going. Now help me out with my necklace, please?’ Holding the two ends of the chain in front of him. Hearing him mutter to himself, ‘Je hebt geluk dat ik van je houd.’ (You’re lucky I love you)

Y/n bent down to kiss his cheek, being taller than Fundy with their heels. ‘Thank you. Now let’s go, we’re going to be late.’ Taking one last glance in the mirror to tame down his hair, Fundy ran out behind them, locking the door behind him. Zero clue that you actually could understand him when he switched into his mother tongue. Niki having gifted y/n a Dutch-English dictionary last Christmas, tired of hearing him gush about them. As Dutch and German were similar languages.

'Ik verdien haar niet. Hij is zo aardig-ik houd van mijn snoepje' (I don’t deserve them. They are so kind—I love my sweetie)

A few drinks in, Fundy had started talking about y/n to anyone that would listen. ‘Het is zo schattig, hoe zijn neus rimpelt wanneer ze lacht.’ (It’s so cute, how their nose scrunches up when they laugh)

‘Okay, thank you all for inviting us but I better get the lightweight home.’ Knowing everyone at the table would never let their foxy live this down if he were to continue. Not that they didn’t like how sappy he got when drunk—showing how much he truly loved them. ‘Hi, baby’ greeting as he excitedly yelled their name. ‘We moeten je naar huis brengen.’ (we need to get you home) Fundy’s face blanched as he realized that y/n was able to understand everything he’d been saying.

‘Jij kent Nederlands?!’ (You know Dutch?!)

[the-greatwar]

Reginald, known as Reggie, was the eldest son of William (Bill) Stenning and his wife Emily

Stenning nee Gander. He was born in late 1891 and baptised here on 01/11/1891. His father was a

gardener and the family lived at Treeps Cottage. He is listed at home on both the 1901 and 1911

censuses when he was a baker’s assistant.

Reggie’s papers have recently been digitised but form part of the ‘burnt documents’ severely

damaged in an incendiary attack on the repository during WW2. Reggie’s papers are missing large

sections. It is possible to work out that he joined the 1/1st Sussex (Fortress) Reserve of the Royal

Engineers as a sapper on 16/11/1914 and was numbered T224, the ‘T’ indicating this was a Territorial

unit. This unit was based in Newhaven and their role was local defence. As the dangers of invasion

receded six engineer units formed the 1/1st Sussex Army Troops Company, RE. With their specialist

knowledge they left England on board the Empress of India arriving at Le Havre on 20/03/1915

joining the British Expeditionary Force at Etaples. At some point Reginald was raised to Lance

Corporal and, although the date cannot be read, it is most likely to have been before he entered

France. The Company was employed building accommodation for the arriving troops and hospitals

and roads around Etaples. They were moved to Vimy Ridge in May of 1916. Here their role was to

extend the deep dugout and tunnel systems under the ridge. One of their innovations was to construct

a ropeway slung from the roof to carry the spoil out to the surface. This system was later adopted by

other units. They also built concrete machine gun positions, and if that were not enough, some of

them, reportedly, helped the local farmers with their harvest.

In late 1916 a reorganisation of troop numbering of the Territorial Forces was undertaken. Six figure

numbers were allocated and the Sussex Fortress men were given numbers starting at 545001 on 01/

02/1917. Reggie was renumbered 545119. Just two days before this Reggie was hit in the leg by a

shell splinter. He was taken to 45 Casualty Clearing Station based at ‘Edgehill’ near Dernancourt but

died the following day. He is buried in the Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension in grave IV.

H. 8. He is remembered on both local war memorials.

Grave B102 in the South Avenue Cemetery holds a member of the Stenning family. In 1920 an Act of

Remembrance laid flowers on the graves of all servicemen who had died. Reginald is mentioned in

the newspaper article and it is possible that flowers were laid here. There is no stone.

Reginald, bekend als Reggie, was de oudste zoon van William (Bill) Stenning en zijn vrouw Emily Stenning - Gander. Hij werd eind 1891 geboren en gedoopt op 01/11/1891. Zijn vader was een tuinman en het gezin woonde in Treeps Cottage. Hij staat vermeld op zowel de 1901 als de 1911 gehouden volkstellingen toen hij bakkersknecht was. Reggie's papieren zijn onlangs gedigitaliseerd, maar zijn ernstig beschadigd bij een brandbomaanval op de opslagplaats tijdens WO2. Van Reggie's papieren ontbreken groot gedeelten. Het is mogelijk om eruit op te maken dat hij zich aansloot bij de 1/1st Sussex (Fortress) Reserve van de Royal Genie als sappeur op 16/11/1914 en was genummerd T224, de 'T' gaf aan dat dit een Territorial eenheid was. Deze eenheid was gestationeerd in Newhaven en hun rol was vooral lokale verdediging. Toen de gevaren van een invasie afnamen werden zes genie-eenheden gevormd in de 1/1st Sussex Army Troops Company, RE. Ze verlieten Engeland aan boord van de Empress of India, waar ze op 20/03/1915 in Le Havre aankwamen en zich aansluiten bij de British Expeditionary Force in Etaples. Op een gegeven moment werd Reginald gepromoveerd tot Lance Korporaal en, hoewel de datum niet kan worden achterhaald, is het zeer waarschijnlijk dat het was voordat hij Frankrijk binnenkwam. De compagnie werd ingezet voor het bouwen van accommodatie voor de aankomende troepen en ziekenhuizen en wegen rond Etaples. Ze werden in mei 1916 verplaatst naar Vimy Ridge. Hier was het hun taak om diepe dug-outs en tunnelsystemen onder de heuveltoppen te graven. Een van hun innovaties was het bouwen van een kabelbaan die vanaf het dak wordt gebruikt om de specie naar de oppervlakte te brengen. Dit systeem werd later overgenomen door andere eenheden. Ze bouwden ook betonnen mitrailleurstellingen, en alsof dat nog niet genoeg was, naar verluidt hielpen ze de lokale boeren met hun oogst. Eind 1916 werd een reorganisatie van de troepennummering van de Territoriale Strijdkrachten ondernomen. Zes nummers werden toegewezen en de mannen van Sussex Fortress kregen nummers vanaf 545001 op 01/ 02/1917. Reggie werd omgenummerd tot 545119. Slechts twee dagen eerder werd Reggie in zijn been geraakt door een granaatsplinter. Hij werd naar 45 Casualty Clearing Station gebracht, gestationeerd in 'Edgehill' bij Dernancourt, maar overleed de volgende dag. Hij ligt begraven op de Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension in graf IV. H. 8. Hij wordt herdacht op beide lokale oorlogsmonumenten. In 1920 werd in het kader van de herdenking bloemen op de graven van alle gesneuvelde militairen gelegd. Reginald wordt genoemd in het krantenartikel, gewijd aan deze herdenking.

[starlightkun]

are you more of a plotter or pantser when you write?

ngl i did have to look this up, and i suppose im a bit of both? like, when i say i have a scene planned out, or that i have x words of planning, or that i have an outline, idk what other writers' planning/outlines look like (aside from the outlines they made us use in elememtary school you know). my word docs for a story always reserve the top part for "planning/outlining" then i have a divider, and under that is where the prose of the story actually starts. when i count word counts of drafts, i only count what's actually written in that second part, from beginning then through the scenes chronologically.

i usually don't start writing a fic until i have not only a solid idea, but also a general concept of the plot (though as my recent posts allude, i tend to have difficulties wrapping it up after the climax). sometimes a scene comes to me first and i have to then build the rest of the au and plot around that scene, but i usually don't start writing what i consider to be in that "prose" section until i have some grasp on the overall fic.

and my "planning/outlining" section usually looks like this:

- x au, a!neo, b!reader, (ft. any important side character)

- if it's majorly involved au like frankenstein complex or strawberry sunday, i'll make a short character list. like in strawbsunday it looked like:

Human!Johnny [roommates w MK]

Fairy!Jungwoo [roommates w TI, DY] ; Vampire!Jaehyun [roommates w TY]

Witch!Doyoung [roommates w TI, JW]

and so on. that one also went in descending height order (members who are officially the same height were next to each other in the list, like jaewoo), bc for a time at the beginning, i was playing with having their height be affected by their species, but that ended up not mattering in the end. i also had so many characters who were roommates bc it was a college au that i needed to be able to remember who lived with who after a while, so that went in the list too.

- then a brief paragraph describing the major story beats

- The Scene that made me get inspired to write it, if there is one, usually all dialogue written in a big block of text like this: "Abcd ef ghijk lmn opqr st uv." YN "Wxy zabcde fg hij klm nopqr st uvw." NEO "Xyz?" YN "Xyz. Abcd, efg hijk lmnopqr. Stuv!" NEO

- more scenes, only dialogue like above

- more scenes, only dialogue like above

so that's how my "planning/outlining" can be 8k+, it's my "sketches" of upcoming scenes that i haven't gotten to yet in the "prose" portion. and while im writing, i'll usually get ideas for upcoming scenes, and add their "sketches" to my planning area at the top. sometimes i don't always know exactly how all the little pieces will fit in, and kind of have to assemble them into a little frankendraft by the end. and sometimes i find that little snippets of dialogue that i thought would be perfect ended up not fitting anywhere, or had to be minorly/majorly modified.

i often go into unexpected places, and find out a lot about my characters while i write! i have my loose outline and im flexible with it if i find that the story is headed in a different direction as i go (like, for example, in changer, i was originally imagining sungchan asking reader out at the end of the valentine's day event at the boba shop and have it be more of a second chances things, but as i wrote it i realized that my werewolf sungchan was too much of a loserboy to do that and it wouldve felt a bit forced imo)

[shiningwonderland]

Ranmaru Kurosaki (All Star)

Translator: Raine (Twitter: amagiyas)

Proofreader: Shu (Twitter: coldcagelord)

Editors: Snail (Twitter: herbert_snail), Lacey (Twitter: fairyharp), Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

Chapter Four — Peaceful Days

Ren Jinguji: Happy New Year, Lady. You look great! Simply beautiful.

Masato Hijirikawa: I hope to receive your support this year as well.

In addition, you look just like a traditional Japanese doll.

The two of them smile cheerfully.

Meanwhile….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … Why're you here too? And what's with that getup?

Kurosaki-senpai looks me up and down.

Haruka Nanami: Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san invited me.

Since I was at my parents' house, I thought I would come dressed in a kimono.

Today, Kurosaki-senpai and the other two will be starting work on a special New Year's live broadcast for a variety show.

Jinguji-san contacted me just before recording began.

In his message, he invited me to attend the first shrine visit of the year with him once recording was finished.

He also said he would bring Kurosaki-senpai along.

We decided to meet at a quiet shrine near the office.

The general public rarely visits this shrine, so even idols can take their time when they visit.

Haruka Nanami: Happy New Year. Please continue looking after me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Y-yeah… same here….

We awkwardly exchange greetings and bow to each other.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Exchanging greetings and all is fine, but… what'd ya come all this way for?

Haruka Nanami: For the first shrine visit of the new year. What else?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hah? Shrine visit?

Haruka Nanami: I came after receiving an invite from Jinguji-san, unless… you came all the way without knowing…?

Kurosaki-senpai glares at the other two.

Is it possible that….

Haruka Nanami: Um… did the two of you explain to Kurosaki-senpai?

Jinguji-san beams and shakes his head while Hijirikawa-san averts his eyes.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, you two. What's goin' on?

Didn't you say we were just gonna stop by the office on our way back?

Ren Jinguji: Let's go, Ran-chan.

If you're with a cute girl like the lady here, the gods will surely be pleased and grant you your wish.

As if nothing had happened, Jinguji-san takes hold of one of Kurosaki-senpai's arms.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What're you up to, hey! Making wishes to the gods? How stupid.

I don't believe in that sorta stuff!

Masato Hijirikawa: Kurosaki-san, please don't shout something like that in front of a shrine.

It's asking for divine punishment from above….

Hijirikawa-san takes hold of his other arm.

Given the situation, I have no choice but to follow along.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What the… lemme go!

Jinguji-san and Hijirikawa-san haul Kurosaki-senpai onto the shrine grounds by his arms.

What is this? It's like watching a child visiting the shrine on his third birthday….

Masato Hijirikawa: Here we go!

Kurosaki-san! Please walk properly!

The two of them drag Kurosaki-senpai into the shrine, leaving behind tracks in the gravel.

If the words "shrine visit" were mentioned from the start, Kurosaki-senpai probably wouldn't want to go.

That was the consensus between Jinguji-san and Hirijikawa-san.

Considering his reaction just now, I can understand their reasoning.

However, I'm participating in the Song Festival with Kurosaki-senpai this year, so it seems they took that into consideration.

Anyway, we manage to reach the inner sanctuary of the shrine where we will make our wishes.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hold up, you two!!

Kurosaki-senpai's shout can be heard in front of the offertory box.

Masato Hijirikawa: Y-yes?

Ren Jinguji: What's the matter, Ran-chan?

The two of them look at him blankly.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Just what're you thinking of putting in that offertory box?!

Ren Jinguji: Huh? Well, I was going to put in an offering.

I catch a glimpse of some bills in his hand before they disappear again.

Masato Hijirikawa: Same here, I hadn't planned on putting in anything special….

Like Jinguji-san, Hijirikawa-san is also holding some bills.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Quit playin' with me! What kinda person goes around putting bills in an offertory box?

This is why I can't stand you rich kids.

He steps up to the shrine's offertory box with a commanding stance.

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh no…. I forgot that he has an eccentric obsession with saving money.

Kurosaki-san, please calm down!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You think I'm gonna stay calm 'bout this?!

Kay you guys! We'll go round and say what we think is a fair amount for an offering!

He scowls at us while maintaining his commanding stance.

Haruka Nanami: F-fair amount?!

Is there really such a thing…?

But I have to answer him….

Select the phrase!

Five yen (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: If I recall… five yen represents good luck.

Ren Jinguji: It also represents good relationships. Beautiful, isn't it?

Are you looking for one too?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, no… that wasn't what I….

Masato Hijirikawa: Jinguji, why are you leading the conversation in that direction?

Human relationships are also valuable in work and in business.

It could be interpreted like that too, which is just as important.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh yeah, business relationships are important.

It all goes back to your daily income, y'see.

And that's that, put away those bills and offer up five yen!

Holding a five yen coin between his fingers, he looks at us sternly.

Ren Jinguji: Hah… guess there's no changing his mind.

Following Kurosaki-senpai's lead, we have our five yen coins ready to throw into the offertory box.

Kurosaki-senpai says it's not good to throw money, so we carefully place our coins inside.

Forty-five yen (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Now that you mention it, I've heard that forty-five yen is a good amount to offer.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ah yes, because it holds a wish for "forming lasting relationships".

It's a beautiful example of traditional Japanese wordplay, don't you think?

Ren Jinguji: Lasting relationships, huh? Not a bad choice.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: If it's that much, I guess I can offer that.

Everyone nods at the same time. It's a unanimous agreement.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hmm? I only have a fifty yen coin. Guess I won't get any change back….

Masato Hijirikawa: Please don't demand change from the gods!

Ren Jinguji: How about thinking of it as a five yen tip?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't be such an idiot! He who laughs at one yen will cry over one yen. Every cent counts, y'know.

Kurosaki-senpai firmly holds his head high as he declares that.

Any amount (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I don't think there really is a fair amount….

Ren Jinguji: Yep, I've seen people who throw in stacks of bills on the news before.

Masato Hijirikawa: I believe that's an exception, but… Well, I think it depends on the feelings of the person making the offering.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: This is pointless. If you’re gonna waste your money at a place like this, you should be usin' it on something beneficial to yourself.

Listen up! An offering should be up to 999 yen. I won't accept anything more than that, so put those notes away.

Kurosaki-senpai snaps his fingers and declares the limit for an offering.

In the end, we rummage through our wallets for some small change and manage to make our offerings.

After ringing the bell, we stand next to each other with our hands clasped and close our eyes. The grounds of the shrine are quiet and solemn.

Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the Song Festival. I only have three months left with the agency.

… I want to win the Song Festival so that I'm able to debut.

I earnestly make that wish and lift my head.

Looking to my side, I see Kurosaki-senpai standing quietly with his eyes closed.

Despite saying that he doesn't make wishes to gods….

Watching him stand there proudly with his head bowed is a beautiful sight.

As I'm staring, he lifts his head and our eyes meet.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … What're you grinning at?

He knocks me on the head and lightly pokes me.

Haruka Nanami: Aah… I-I'm sorry.

Um… What did you wish for?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I told you I don't believe in that stuff, didn't I?

I didn't make any.

If I have to say something, then I expressed my determination.

Haruka Nanami: Determination?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, all the things I hope to accomplish this year… stuff like that.

Now's a good chance to do it.

Anyway, how 'bout you?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, well… I want to win the Song Festival and make my debut, so I wished for that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … Y'see here.

For major things like that, say them directly.

Haruka Nanami: Directly?

He quietly tells me it's nothing to worry about and averts his eyes.

Ren Jinguji: Well, we've finished with our prayers.

How about drawing fortunes before we leave?

Jinguji-san stretches widely before moving towards the place where fortunes are being sold.

Haruka Nanami: Ahh, a test of luck!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Just when I thought we were done….

Ren Jinguji: Now, now. Ran-chan, let’s go.

Once again, Kurosaki-senpai is dragged away towards the fortunes.

Ren Jinguji: Oh, medium fortune.

"Someone who has been waiting for you will appear"….

Finally, it's time for my femme fatale to make an entrance.

Masato Hijirikawa: Small fortune. "Your studies will pay off if you work hard"… huh.

Yes, I must be even more diligent.

How about yours?

Haruka Nanami: Um… let's see.

Ah! It's great fortune! I'm going to have great fortune!

I show everyone the fortune I pulled.

Ren Jinguji: That's wonderful, Lady!

Masato Hijirikawa: That’s amazing, I'm sure it will be a good year for you.

Haruka Nanami: Yes! Thank you so much!

Huh? Kurosaki-senpai….

Turning around, I see Kurosaki-senpai lashing out at one of the priests near the fortunes.

Haruka Nanami: S-Senpai? What are you…?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't "what" me, take a look!

He says that while holding out his fortune, waving it around.

Masato Hijirikawa: Please don't wave it around, it makes it difficult to….

What? Catastrophic fortune?!

Haruka Nanami: D-did you say catastrophic?!

Ren Jinguji: Well then….

Good going, Ran-chan.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Quit messin' around!

"Money: You will lose a lot." What the hell's with that?!

For Senpai, he seems to be more concerned about that point rather than the catastrophic misfortune.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … It's time for payback.

Just as he turns on his heel, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san grab him and hold him back.

Haruka Nanami: P-please calm down!

I… I have to do something as his partner.

Haruka Nanami: H-here, I'll give you my great fortune.

Masato Hijirikawa: Then, please take my small fortune as well.

Without a second thought, Hijirikawa-san places his fortune on top of mine.

Ren Jinguji: Huh, guess I gotta do it too.

Here, you can have my medium fortune.

Now you're all set.

All three fortunes are handed over to Kurosaki-senpai in succession.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Geez, even if you give me your fortunes….

Besides, I'm the one in charge of my own life!

I’m going to take another shot at this.

Once again, just as he turns on his heel, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san hold him back.

If it's come to this….

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai, think of this in a different way!

Determined, I stand in front of Senpai.

Haruka Nanami: T-to lose a lot of money… would mean that you're going to earn lots of money first before you lose it….

Couldn't you think of it like that?

The shrine grounds fall quiet.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What….

You… you've learned to speak for yourself, haven’t you?

Masato Hijirikawa: Whoa….

Ren Jinguji: You did it, Lady.

Haruka Nanami: What's more, the power in these three fortunes will balance it out!

You might even end up with extra good luck left over!

I'm desperate, but somehow I manage to get it all out.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, if you guys insist, then I guess I don't have a choice….

Kurosaki-senpai grumbles as he holds onto the fortunes.

After that, we sip some amazake and tie our fortunes to the branches of a plum blossom tree growing in the shrine's courtyard.

Lastly, I put my hands together, praying deep in my heart for everyone’s happiness and success before leaving the shrine.

Afterwards, we head towards the office.

Maybe it was because of the ruckus at the shrine, but everyone looks exhausted.

Haruka Nanami: Are you going to have a meeting to discuss hidden talents now?

Kurosaki-senpai nods in confirmation.

Each year, the president hosts a New Year's party for Shining Agency.

Last year, I wasn't able to attend, but it seems the hidden talents contest is the highlight of the party, and all of the agency's stars take part in it.

This year, it’s been decided that the Master Course teams will each participate as a unit. It looks like Kurosaki-senpai, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san are going to start planning for it now.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, we are. However, Kurosaki-san, you were quick to agree to participate.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's a real pain. But if it's for a prize, of course I gotta do it.

Haruka Nanami: Is the grand prize really that extravagant?

Ren Jinguji: Last year's prize was a gold statue of the boss.

Putting aside the question of whether one would display it or not, it does boast some extravagance.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Every year, Hyuga-san and Tsukimiya-san engage in a fierce battle.

We can't lose against them….

Masato Hijirikawa: In addition, there's a penalty for the team in last place.

At the very least, I would like to avoid that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Tch, what're you saying?

If we're doing this, of course we're aimin' to win.

Listen up! Things are gonna get busy from now on!

Ren Jinguji: Okay, Ran-chan!

Masato Hijirikawa: I have a bad feeling about this, but it looks like I don't have a choice.

I understand.

I wonder what kind of hidden talents they'll show off?

I'm looking forward to it.

A few days later, I arrive at the New Year's party.

Haruka Nanami: Wow, amazing….

The venue is decorated lavishly, with many well-dressed stars coming in and out of it.

Even though it's just for the agency, the president remains a fan of brilliance and glamour.

A gigantic banquet hall has been booked for the occasion.

Haruka Nanami: It's dazzling.

I thought I had dressed somewhat presentable myself, but compared to the aura of the people coming and going around me….

I feel like I shouldn’t stay here.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan! A Happy New Year to you!!

Haruka Nanami: Ehh!

Suddenly, something covers my head from behind and my vision is plunged into darkness.

Camus: The lion dance….

I see, it's a traditional Japanese event.

How interesting.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hweihi! Hugt noft haeut!

Heh iho fueh, iho!

Ai Mikaze: Camus, the lion dance originated from China.

Ranmaru, don't talk with your mouth full.

And Reiji, you don't cover the whole head in lion dancing. You only need to bite it.

Reiji Kotobuki: Oh, is that right?

Ai-Ai is as knowledgeable as ever. Well then!

The object on top of my head sways unsteadily.

Haruka Nanami: Ahhhh!

Camus: Enough, Kotobuki.

Gradually, my vision becomes bright again.

When I turn around, everyone is standing there.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, you're all here! Happy New Year!

Wow, all of you came dressed in kimonos today.

I fix my eyes on the sight of the four of them in their kimonos.

Reiji Kotobuki: Well, well? How do we look, Kouhai-chan?

Kotobuki-senpai asks as he opens and closes the lion's mouth.

Haruka Nanami: Yes! You all look wonderful!

But why did you come in kimonos?

Camus: We didn’t have a choice. Saotome gave us orders to come in kimonos today.

It seems that many stars were encouraged to wear kimonos to this event.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's not a big deal. I've worn one a couple times before, in the past.

Ai Mikaze: Oh? I didn't know that.

Now that you mention it, you helped Camus fix his collar earlier.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I don't like seeing it all crooked. If I do see somethin' like that, it makes me irritated.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yoo-hoo~! Are there any naughty kids around~?

Kotobuki-senpai holds up the lion and passes in front of Kurosaki-senpai.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey Reiji, cool it! Your obi's gonna come loose!

Camus: Stop it, Kotobuki! Don't bite my head with that lion from some foreign country!

I've sworn allegiance to my country, and….

Ai Mikaze: "Are there any naughty kids"... isn't that from a Namahage ritual?

Soon, Kotobuki-senpai, Mikaze-senpai, and Camus-senpai wander off, leaving me alone with Kurosaki-senpai.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Aren't you eating anything?

Senpai asks me with a box of New Year's food in his hand.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. It's just that it all looked so extravagant, I got overwhelmed….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: There's no need to hold back. It's all free, so don't go home 'til you've gotten your money's worth.

C'mon, follow me.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Um….

Kurosaki-senpai leaves the room briskly, and I scamper after him.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, over here. Now then—looks like they got sushi, soba, crab….

I haven't had any tempura yet either. You want some?

Kurosaki-senpai puts a plate in each of my hands and casually starts to heap food onto them.

In my right hand is Japanese food, and in my left hand is Western food.

Everything looks delicious, and yet….

Haruka Nanami: Um, Senpai. It seems like you're getting a lot of attention….

Even among the idols, Kurosaki-senpai stands out in particular with his makeup and kimono.

Everyone stares in amazement, but he continues to heap food onto the plates anyway.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't worry 'bout them. Anyway, have you been eating properly?

Here, have some prawn.

As if to give it a finishing touch, he puts some prawn tempura on top of the pile of food.

The final mound is an unnatural amount of food in a wide variety of colors.

Ai Mikaze: What are the two of you doing? Is that your hidden talent?

Before I realize, everyone else has returned.

Haruka Nanami: N-no, it's not!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Now you've got a bit of everything. Alright!!

Despite my bewilderment, he looks over at me with a satisfied expression on his face.

Haruka Nanami: Um, well you see. Both of my hands are full….

It's a standing buffet, so even if I want to put the dishes down, there's no place to put them.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ah, now that you mention it. Yeah.

I might've gotten a bit carried away.

Ai Mikaze: Geez, he really didn't think ahead….

Reiji Kotobuki: This is the part where he does that thing, isn't it? The scenario where Ranran will go "say 'aaahh'" right?

Come on, you gotta do it to Kouhai-chan!

For some reason Kotobuki-senpai looks happy, opening the lion's mouth wide as if waiting to receive something.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Wha?! What're you sayin'….

As if I'd be able to do something like that in front of you guys!

Camus: However, making a lady hold the plates while you stuff yourself full….

That's not a good look.

Reiji Kotobuki: Then, I guess I'd better feed her for you~

Here you go, say 'aaahh'~

Kotobuki-senpai grabs a pair of chopsticks using his free hand.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You idiot, knock it off!! Argh, fine….

Hey, pick which one you wanna eat.

Kurosaki-senpai asks me with his chopsticks in hand.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Um….

Select the phrase!

Omurice (+30 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Then, I'll have the omurice please.

Seeing Kurosaki-senpai reminds me of how you look when you make it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You like it that much, huh?

Haven't you had enough of it from having staff meals?

He looks just a little embarrassed.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'd understand if it's your favorite food, but….

Man, of all the things you could have picked, it's the one hardest to grab with chopsticks!

Haruka Nanami: Ah, I'm sorry!

Even as he says that, he skillfully portions out the omurice with his chopsticks.

Hamburg steak (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Then… I'll have the hamburg steak….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hamburg steak? Oh, this?

The portion looks like it’s for a child….

But, well, meat’s a good choice.

Kurosaki-senpai grips the small piece of hamburg steak with his chopsticks.

Sushi (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: T-then, I think I'll have the sushi. I reply in resignation.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Heh, didn't think you'd go for the expensive choice.

Well, I guess it's okay….

As he says that, Kurosaki-senpai picks up a piece of tuna sushi with his chopsticks.

I face Kurosaki-senpai, who is poised with his chopsticks, ready to feed me.

Haruka Nanami: Um….

Incidentally, the way he holds his chopsticks is very lovely.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, come on. Hurry up and open your mouth.

It's hard to keep this up.

His chopsticks waver unsteadily.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes!!

Pressured by the turn of events, I open my mouth without thinking.

Reiji Kotobuki: Alright! Go for it, Ranran!!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Geez, you're such a pain! Just shut up!

C'mon, here!

Even as he raises his voice, Kurosaki-senpai pops the food into my mouth.

Reiji Kotobuki: Whoa~, I didn't think he would actually….

Ai Mikaze: I see, so this is how one tames a wild animal using food.

Camus: How should I put this….

It's more embarrassing for those watching.

I realize that rather than just Camus-senpai and the others, the entire hall is now staring at me.

And in front of me is Kurosaki-senpai, holding onto his chopsticks while he waits to see how I will react.

Haruka Nanami: I-it's really delicious. And yet, I can't help but notice that we seem to be drawing a lot of attention….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So what? Don't worry 'bout what others think. I forge my own path.

What should we have next…. Maybe the tempura. Here, eat up.

He carefully dips it in sauce and holds out a piece of prawn tempura towards me.

All eyes turn towards us as we prepare for a second round.

Haruka Nanami: U-um…. No thank you, I think I'll pass.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What? You won't eat my tempura?

Don't be a picky eater.

Haruka Nanami: No, it's not that I don't like it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: When you can eat, then eat. That should be an ironclad rule.

Otherwise, when push comes to shove, you won't be able to act.

Particularly on a day like today, just before an all-important match.

Haruka Nanami: B-but I'm not participating in the hidden talents contest…!

He glares at me sharply.

Haruka Nanami: Y-Yes sir….

I give in and open my mouth.

After that, he continues to pop food into my mouth, one bite after another.

All of it is delicious and I'm really happy, but it's also very embarrassing….

Kurosaki-senpai and I end up standing out more than anyone else in the hall.

In the end, Kurosaki-senpai helps me to finish everything, and my plate is finally cleared. That's when….

Shining Saotome: Now then!! The entertainment corner that everyone has been waiting for!

Get ready all of YOU, the hidden talents contest is about to start, YO!

Finally, today's main event, the hidden talents contest, begins.

Up on stage, everyone unleashes their all to showcase their hidden talents.

This year's hidden talent display from Hyuga-sensei is a one-man theatrical production.

The theme is a contemporary arrangement of Hamlet.

Ryuya Hyuga: To be or not to be, that is the question….

As expected of Hyuga-sensei, his acting skills are top-notch.

He seems to be accustomed to the stage, his suffering and anguish on display for all to see.

And then….

Ryuya Hyuga: Get thee to a nunnery! And if you wish, then I'll be your opponent!

Stripping off his costume, he reveals his costume from "Prince of Fighting" underneath.

Everyone is in an uproar over the transition from one prince to another.

The audience gives a generous round of applause to Hyuga-sensei for performing the collaboration between the two series all by himself.

It's just as expected from the fan favorite.

An amazing show of hidden talent.

The other acts finish, and finally it's time for Kurosaki-senpai's group to go on stage.

He was very eager about it. I wonder what they're going to do.

I'm excited to see.

Above the stage, a large mirror is set up and a gentle melody begins to flow.

The three of them scurry out onto the stage.

Masato Hijirikawa: All right everybody, gather around~!

A fun play is about to begin!

Ren Jinguji: What kind of story will we see today~?

Well then, let's go. It's time for World Masterpiece Theater!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Peachtaro!

The three of them strike a clean pose.

Haruka Nanami: Taro?

The room is abuzz with commotion.

Ryuya Hyuga: Tch, so they're doing a play as well….

Hyuga-sensei mutters to himself at my side.

The three of them exit briefly, and then Hijirikawa-san reappears onstage by himself.

For some reason, Hijirikawa-san is dressed as a woman and begins to address the mirror.

Masato Hijirikawa: Mirror, mirror, on the wall. Who is the fairest of them all?

Ringo Tsukimiya: Me?

Ryuya Hyuga: Er, I don't think so.

As if it’s a conditioned reflex, Hyuga-sensei pushes Tsukimiya-sensei, who had begun to stand up from the audience, back down into his seat.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ask, and I shall answer. There is no one fairer but you!

Ahh, Hijirikawa-san is putting in his best effort to play a double role.

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh, how wonderful. Then, oh mirror, mirror, on the wall.

Who is the strongest of them all?

The room is filled with silence….

Masato Hijirikawa: Ask, and I shall answer. There is no one stronger than… Peachtaro!

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh myyyyy, how terrible!!

Then I have no choice but to have Taro die by eating these "poisoned dango"!

Hijirikawa-san takes the dango in his hand and injects poison into them.

… The scene changes to an unfamiliar road.

Kurosaki-senpai appears, riding on a horse.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yo! I'm Peachtaro, the boy born of a peach!

I'm gonna be the strongest man in the world!

I'm unstoppable, so you better watch out~!

Camus: Pfft!!

Next to me, Camus-senpai spits out the oolong tea he had been drinking.

Camus: Excuse me….

Haruka Nanami: Ah, it's okay….

Camus: … By the way, I'm the one who supplied that horse.

Haruka Nanami: Ehh?!

He seems to have brought it all the way from his home in Silk Palace.

During our conversation, the play continues.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, you guys over there!

Wanna come with me and beat up some evil demons?

Kurosaki-senpai… or rather, Peachtaro asks with a flash of white teeth.

Masato Hijirikawa: Woof, woof! If I can get my paws on some of those delicious looking dango, I'll go with you, woof!

Ren Jinguji: A pheasant like me can't pass up a good dango either, coo!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Haha, 'course you can have some.

My sis makes the best and coolest dango around!

Whenever Kurosaki-san says something, the audience tries excruciatingly hard to resist the urge to laugh.

Everyone… please hang in there.

Hijirikawa-san as the dog and Jinguji-san as the pheasant take the dango from Peachtaro.

Ren Jinguji: Thank you, Taro-kun!

Masato Hijirikawa: Wow, it's huge! It looks like a solid portion.

But I think you should have it, Taro-san. This smaller piece is enough for me.

The dog gives his dango to Peachtaro and takes a smaller portion for himself.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ah, sorry 'bout that.

… Since we all have some now, let's eat it together!

Seeing Peachtaro with a wide smile on his face, the dog and the pheasant both smile and nod.

All three of them bite into their dango at the same time.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ugh…! Arghhhhh…!

Ren Jinguji: Urk…! This….

Don't tell me it was poisoned…?

Oh my goodness! Everyone just collapsed all at once.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ur, hgh….

Guhhh! Hah…….

Peachtaro writhes about on the floor in pain.

Haruka Nanami: Amazing, Kurosaki-senpai. Such realistic acting!!

Reiji Kotobuki: Hey, Ranran's face is all red….

Whoa, now he's starting to turn blue.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Ah, you're right.

Then, the dog next to Peachtaro slowly begins to get up.

Masato Hijirikawa: Hahaha. Finally, my days of being pushed around by you are over, Kurosaki-san!

… I-I mean, Peachtaro!

Without a moment's delay, Hijirikawa-san quickly changes costumes.

In his place stands the woman who appeared at the beginning of the play.

Ren Jinguji: Y-you…. You were just pretending…!

You tricked us!!

Masato Hijirikawa: Ohohoho!! You simpletons!

Hijirikawa-san cackles with glee.

Ren Jinguji: Hm? Hey, Ran-chan. Ran-chan.

Masato Hijirikawa: What's the matter, Jinguji?

Ren Jinguji: Well, it's just that Ran-chan….

He's not breathing.

Masato Hijirikawa: He's what?!

What's going on…?

Gradually, the audience begins to murmur in confusion.

Masato Hijirikawa: Please hang in there, Kurosaki-san!!

Hijirikawa-san slaps Kurosaki-san firmly on the cheeks.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hrk, ugh… guh….

Kurosaki-senpai begins to stir.

Ren Jinguji: Ah, thank goodness. Are you okay, Taro?

… Sorry, I mean, Ran-chan.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Guh….

Dango… in… my… throat….

That's all he says before collapsing again.

Masato Hijirikawa: Wha?!

That's why I asked you to be careful during rehearsal…!!

At that moment, the horse neighs, startled by Hijirikawa-san's loud voice….

It suddenly runs out of the hall.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Urk… guh….

Hrk… hrk….

Ah… that's better….

Kurosaki-senpai is able to breathe again!

Relieved, the two of them stroke his shoulders.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Waaahhhhh, don't come any closer!!

Ryuya Hyuga: Everyone, get outta here!

However the horse, in its confusion, runs towards the audience.

Camus: Calm down, Stallion! Hyaa!!

Camus-senpai swiftly jumps onto the horse and takes the reins.

Camus: Whoa there, easy. You were scared, weren't you Stallion?

But it's okay now.

He smoothly pets the horse's muzzle.

The horse has calmed down, but….

Haruka Nanami: Aah… the hall is a mess.

Shining Saotome: Hrmmmmmmmmmmm.

What happened to my exciting New Year's party?!

YOU three, prepare for punishmeeent!!

The president raises his voice.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Seriously…?

Their shoulders slump in disappointment.

Shining Saotome: Oh, and I declare Ryuya-san as the victorrr.

For first place, the prize is this ice sculpture of ME!!

The president points sharply to the icy figure towering over the center of the hall.

Ryuya Hyuga: I don't want it!!

Hyuga-sensei's exclamation echoes throughout the hall, and the New Year's party ends in the midst of the uproar.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What a way to start the new year….

Guess this is what it meant by “catastrophic fortune”.

Haruka Nanami: Hmm, maybe we couldn't cover all of it and some was still left over.

On my way home, I ran into Kurosaki-senpai.

He said that the president's penalty would take place over three days starting from tonight.

The details were unknown, but it involved staying overnight.

Plus, Jinguji-san and Hijirikawa-san were already dragged there, undergoing their penalty.

Kurosaki-senpai must have told them he was going to his place to pick up his bags before heading off.

It was probably a physical kind of punishment, but he brushed it off saying that this sort of thing was common for Shining Agency idols to endure.

I often hear from one of the TV staff whom I work with that the idols at Shining Agency are very good at adapting to the unexpected….

So it's through this kind of activity that their skills are developed?

… Amazing.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: To tell you the truth, I wanted to have a meeting about the Song Festival tomorrow, but….

Just when I thought New Year's was over, this happened.

Kurosaki-senpai is a popular idol.

Naturally, he was very busy through to the end of the year and New Year holidays.

Just when he finally had a day off, the president had the final say and called off those plans.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai, you were this busy with your work over New Year's and the hidden talents contest, huh….

The big event at the agency is over, and I thought we would get to talk about the song. I'm a little disappointed we couldn't do that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, no need to look so dejected.

I'll find time in between work and look at the song then.

By the way, are you getting a break?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, I can afford to relax a bit at the start of the year.

So I thought of composing a few extra songs.

It's better to keep a stockpile of them.

Oh, can I try to compose one song for the Song Festival as a suggestion first?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Huh? Sure, I guess.

Let's see what you come up with.

It better not be something weird though, 'cause I'm not afraid of rejecting it.

Haruka Nanami: Hehe, there's something I've been wanting to compose….

I want to take the melody I felt on Christmas night and give it proper shape as a song.

We are just about to reach the corner of the road. From here, we will go our separate ways.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I got it. Work on the song well while I'm gone.

I'll give it a listen when I get back from the penalty.

Select the phrase!

I won't let you down! (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Okay! I won't let you down!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Heh, someone's fired up.

Well, I'm lookin' forward to it.

You'll do fine.

He smiles and turns towards the road.

Please do your best. (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I'll be waiting.

Please do your best.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yeah, same goes for you.

I don't know what kinda mess I'll find myself in for the punishment, but I'll get it over and done with.

Haruka Nanami: See you later!

You'll listen to it? (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Wow, you'll really listen to it?!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Why're you so surprised?

Didn't I tell you last month I would join you for the Song Festival?

So of course I will.

Glancing at me, Senpai turns towards the road.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'll send you a message later.

Well then, I'm off. See ya.

Kurosaki-senpai waves lightly, returning home to get ready.

After Christmas night, I feel like I've gotten a little bit closer to him.

Haruka Nanami: Alright, I'd better give it my all too.

I have to start thinking about the song right away.

With that, I head back to the agency dorms.

I focus on composing the song for the Song Festival while waiting for Kurosaki-senpai to return.

The fact that other work has stopped gives me plenty of time to concentrate solely on the Song Festival. It feels almost luxurious.

I think a lot about Senpai as I write the song.

I think about his sparkling, shining figure atop the Christmas Live stage.

I think about the kindness that he sometimes shows behind his blunt words, his honesty when it comes to music, and his strength….

I have the bass pick that I received from him on display on my desk. Sometimes, I touch it while writing the song.

The pick is a deep red color. It's light with a roundish sort of shape, almost like a rose petal.

My phone chimes.

Haruka Nanami: Huh? It's a message from Senpai.

Even though he's in the middle of the penalty.

Sender: Ranmaru Kurosaki

Title: No Title

Keep this Thursday afternoon free. I'll check out the song then.

By the way, if you were to name a white tiger, would 'Tiger' be okay?

Haruka Nanami: T-Tiger…?

What a mysterious question.

Why is he asking something like that?

Is Senpai safe as he’s undergoing his punishment?

For the time being, I reply with "'Snowy' is nice too" and resume working on the song.

When he comes back, I'll ask him about it.

Five days after the New Year's party, I visit the agency.

I exchange glances with Hijirikawa-san who happens to be there as well.

He raises his hand and greets me.

Haruka Nanami: Hijirikawa-san!

You must have had a hard time with the hidden talents contest and the penalty….

Masato Hijirikawa: No, I'm just glad you didn't get trampled on by a horse.

But yes, it was a lot to deal with….

I can see the hardships he went through from the expression on his face.

Jinguji-san, who had been collecting some documents in the back, also came over to us.

Ren Jinguji: Yo, Lady.

Man, we suffered a lot.

There's the same tiredness in Jinguji-san's expression.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, speaking of which. I received a message from Kurosaki-senpai asking about 'Tiger' as a name….

Masato Hijirikawa: Ahh…. Actually, as part of the penalty, we were taken to Saotome-san's house to take care of his pets….

Haruka Nanami: Pets?

Ren Jinguji: Yeah. For three days, we had to take care of the boss' pets….

Jinguji-san's expression becomes downcast.

Masato Hijirikawa: It's hard to believe it's a private collection….

Ren Jinguji: On top of having fierce animals from all around the world, he even has a giant insectarium.

Masato Hijirikawa: No more, Jinguji!! Don't remind me!!

Hijirikawa-san's face is ghastly pale as he clamps a hand over his mouth.

Come to think of it, I remember Hijirikawa-san being terrified of insects.

Haruka Nanami: Fierce animals too? That… must have been hard.

Ren Jinguji: Yeah. Even now, I still can't shake some of the exhaustion….

Jinguji-san lightly puts a hand to his forehead.

Ren Jinguji: To add to that, there was some trouble at home and my brother called me, which was unusual.

Haruka Nanami: Trouble, you say?

I hear that as of late, someone has been hanging around Jinguji-san's and Hijirikawa-san's family's homes and messing with them.

Haruka Nanami: If it involves both your families… I'm guessing it's trouble relating to the conglomerates?

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, that's right.

I heard that an emerging holding company is doing some considerably shady business.

I've also been urgently summoned to a family meeting.

I haven't had a good night's sleep since I got back from the president's house.

Haruka Nanami: Oh my….

You've all been hard at work.

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh no, Kurosaki-san is the one who has been working consistently since he got back from the president's house.

Hijirikawa-san nods, saying that he would have to learn from him, but his face lacks vigor.

Haruka Nanami: Please don't push yourselves too much.

Shouldn't you both finish early today and rest?

Ren Jinguji: I suppose you're right.

I just came to collect some documents, but I'll do as you say. Thanks.

The two of them leave the office looking exhausted.

Trouble with the conglomerates. That sounds tough.

Afterwards, as I sit in the room waiting for our meeting, Kurosaki-senpai arrives right on time.

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai! Are you okay?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Huh? What, did something happen?

Placing his things on the table, he takes a seat and eyes me with a curious look.

Haruka Nanami: Ah no, I heard from Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san about how you had to take care of the president's pets….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh, you mean like the tiger and the lion?

It was no big deal. Piece o' cake.

Haruka Nanami: A-amazing….

Is that so? The other two seemed exhausted….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That's 'cause they're sloppy.

Especially Masato. He saw one bug and started kickin' up a huge fuss like an idiot.

Ren being Ren got attached to the females, but the males saw him as their enemy and a threat.

In the end, I got stuck with having to take care of everything.

Haruka Nanami: Wow, that's quite the feat.

All of the wild animals acted like that?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: They all behaved themselves for me. After all, they're just like big cats.

Haruka Nanami: Cats….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The only annoying thing was they kept comin' at me day and night, wanting me to play with them and feed them. Sometimes it's no joke when they get playful.

Now that I think about it, when I visited his home, the cats seemed quite fond of him.

I wonder if it's Kurosaki-senpai's nature that makes animals drawn to him?

Haruka Nanami: By the way, do you like animals, Senpai?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's not that I like them in particular.

They come and hang around me all on their own.

Haruka Nanami: I see….

Hmm, surely they do that because….

Select the phrase!

They know you're gentle. (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: It's because they realize that you're a gentle person.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hah, what're you saying?

I'm not gentle at all.

Senpai rests his chin in his hands, letting out a small breath.

Haruka Nanami: Animals are honest creatures. Surely, they can tell.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Geez. They've always been attached to me.

Even though I don't remember feeding them, they still cling to me anyway.

When I say I won't take care of them, they don't listen.

I ended up feeding them because they were making so much noise, and then they decided to stick around.

Weren't you the same?

Haruka Nanami: N-no way! I'm not a cat or anything….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Heh, we'll see about that.

Kurosaki-senpai smiles upon saying those words.

They think you look tasty. (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Perhaps, they look at you and see a tasty treat?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh, hey. Now that you mention it, they did like to lick me a lot….

Yeah no, that's just dumb!

Haruka Nanami: But your hair is so fluffy, maybe they thought it looked like cotton candy….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: More like your brain is filled with cotton candy.

What's so tasty about me? My muscles are all brawny and tough. Even a lion would leave those parts behind.

You on the other hand, you'd probably be eaten up in an instant. You're much softer and tastier looking than me. Better be careful.

Haruka Nanami: No! We can't have that!

I frantically wave my hands.

They find you alike. (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Maybe they find that you're similar to them?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Similar? Me, similar to tigers and lions?

Kurosaki-senpai glares at me sharply.

Haruka Nanami: Um… I mean it in the wild sense.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Wild, huh… guess that ain't bad.

Maybe I'll incorporate a leopard print into my next costume….

After saying that, he begins to think about it intently.

I'm sure Kurosaki-senpai can pull off the look well.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Now then, there's no time to waste. Let's get right into it.

Can't buy time, after all.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. Once again, I look forward to working with you for the Song Festival!

I bow my head and Kurosaki-senpai nods lightly in return.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Y-yeah, same here.

Let's get down to business. You’ve finished the song, right? Lemme hear it.

Haruka Nanami: Okay! I made it with my own impression of you in mind.

Taking out the song, Senpai nods in satisfaction, folds his arms, and closes his eyes.

He's positioned himself to listen carefully.

Haruka Nanami: Well then, I hope you like it!

I press the play button on the music player.

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (S RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Not bad at all….

It's a good start.

Haruka Nanami: Y-you really mean that?!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Idiot, don't get carried away.

The question is how high can we go from here?

After all, our goal is to win.

Haruka Nanami: Yes!!

At least it's a passing grade for now!

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (A-B RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's okay.

Not bad, but it looks like we still have a long way to go.

Well, you just gotta keep at it.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I'll give it my all!

I nod deeply in response.

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (C-D RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Why you! Eyes on me and listen up!

You can't expect to win if you start out like this!

At this rate, we won't even get a participation award!

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorryyyyy!!

Flustered, I straighten my back.

I become subject to waves of scolding before having to start over.

He's so strict…!

______________________________

After listening to the song, Kurosaki-senpai keeps his arms crossed, as if he’s still pondering over something.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So that's your impression of me….

Is this how you see me?

Kurosaki-senpai eventually asks me.

Haruka Nanami: That's right!

Of course, when I think of Kurosaki-senpai, I think of rock. But I thought that I could show even more to everyone—a new side of you that the world hasn't seen yet.

That's why I kept elements of rock, which make up your soul. But I also filled it with things that I've felt from you, like your honesty and your kindness that sometimes shines through.

I want you to sing a song that only you can express, a song that only you can sing, without being limited to rock or idol songs.

I boldly share all of my thoughts with him.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I see. If you focus on that, there's a chance it'll come out half-assed.

Not only the song, but I’ll also start to question my ability to express myself.

… 'Kay. Seeing as you've put this much thought into the song, I'll follow ya.

It's caught my interest, so we'll go with it.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, thank you so much!

I'm glad that he's accepted it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh, that's right. I've got a job I wanna ask you to do.

After we finish talking about the song festival, Kurosaki-senpai speaks up.

Haruka Nanami: A job for me? What is it?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I've been asked to create the new opening theme for my upcoming program, but I wanted to see if you'd do it instead.

You wanna give it a shot?

Haruka Nanami: Huh, me? I would be honored but….

Is it really okay for someone like me to do it?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't gimme that.

Have more confidence in yourself, y'hear me?!

When I ask him about it timidly, he looks at me sharply.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes…!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The director of the program was having a hard time choosing someone.

So I recommended you, since you seemed free at the start of the year.

Haruka Nanami: You recommended me?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, when they asked me if I knew any composers, you came to mind.

And I happened to be carrying your music at the time….

Haruka Nanami: You had it at the time?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I-I just forgot to delete the Christmas Live track, okay?!

He abruptly averts his gaze, but….

He thought he could trust me with composing the opening theme for his program, so that must be why he offered the job to me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Anyway! You wanna do it or not? Answer me.

He glances at me as I’m still bewildered and asks again.

Select the phrase!

I'll do my best! (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I got it. I'll do my best!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Of course you will!

Prove your worth with results, and don't you dare make me look bad.

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

I nod with a smile.

I would be happy to. (+15 Love)

I'm a little nervous about some things, but of course….

Haruka Nanami: I would be happy to. Thank you so much.

I bow deeply because his feelings make me happy.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, so long as you're the composer, I'm pretty certain it'll all go smoothly.

Kurosaki-senpai murmurs in a small voice.

I'm not sure…. (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Um, I'm not sure if I can, but….

I want to meet Senpai's expectations. With that feeling in mind, I muster up my courage.

Haruka Nanami: I'm willing to try my best. Thank you.

When I say that with my head bowed, Senpai looks at me as if relieved.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Here's all the info.

Also, there's a script to read for reference.

Kurosaki-senpai slides an A4 envelope across the table to me.

Haruka Nanami: "Ranmaru Kurosaki's Rock 'n' Roller"… i-isn't this a really popular program?!

"Ranmaru Kurosaki's Rock 'n' Roller" is a talk show that focuses on the latest music.

Inside the envelope is an outline of the program and the script for the next recording.

If I recall, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san also appear on the program.

I wonder if they were here earlier for a copy of the script.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The next recording will be at the start of next month. Come and see for yourself.

Then right after, we'll have a meeting. How 'bout it?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! That's fine with me.

I check my schedule and confirm that I can make it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Kay, thanks.

Make sure you think of some ideas for the opening by then.

And it goes without sayin', but don't lose focus on the Song Festival either. Got it?

Haruka Nanami: Of course!

It'll be tough, but the thought of a new challenge excites me.

I'll do the best that I can!

Following that, Kurosaki-senpai gave me his critique on the solo song and a brief explanation of the program before hurrying off to his next job.

He looks as busy as ever.

I stayed behind in the conference room for a bit longer to check the documents. By the time I left the office, the sun had already set.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, it's snowing….

Did I bring my umbrella?

It had just started to snow by the time I was ready to leave.

Shivering, I step out onto the street in front of the office when I notice a large black car parked off to the side.

Haruka Nanami: A guest…? But why did they go to the trouble of parking on the street?

About four or five men dressed in suits are surrounding the car, talking amongst themselves in front of the office.

They don't seem to be from the media.

Haruka Nanami: What are they here for…?

There's something strange about them, I think to myself as I cross the road and put some distance between us.

It appears there is still someone else inside the car. One of the suited men runs over and opens the door.

He unfolds an umbrella and, underneath it, a man in his forties gets out of the car.

For a moment, our eyes meet. His eyes are narrow and almost like slits.

I immediately clutch my umbrella closer to myself.

A light layer of snow piles up on the black car.

However, the men standing around show no sign of getting out their umbrellas.

They observe the office for a while, exchanging a word or two before getting back into the car.

What was that…?

I have an uneasy feeling about this.

I keep my umbrella low over my face as I walk.

The black car passes by me, going straight through the green light at the intersection.

I stare blankly at the tail lights of the car as it drives away in the falling snow.

(Chapter End)

[isrnws]

De volledige open brief van President Biden over de USA politiek tegenover Israël en Palestina

Opinion  Joe Biden: The U.S. won’t back down from the challenge of Putin and Hamashttps://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/11/18/joe-biden-gaza-hamas-putin/ De Bron is de publicatie in de Washington Post. Om de vertalingen mogelijk te maken citeren we de volledige tekst. Het toont wel duidelijk aan dat er nog steeds een groot vertrouwen is in de mogelijkheid van de Palestijnse Autoriteit om het beheer van Gaza over te nemen wanneer duidelijk is dat ze dit momenteel niet kunnen in de Westbank sinds het vredesakkoord. Hij hoopt dat met vernieuwde steun en begeleiding dit 'regime' zoals andere corrupte regimes op termijn kan omgebouwd worden tot een volwaardige democratie die terrorisme niet langer ondersteunt. Het is tevens duidelijk dat de situatie in Gaza slechts een stuk is op een veel groter schaakbord en dat Hamas en zeker de Palestijnen daar een onbeduidend onderdeeltje van zijn nu ze niet langer de regionale en wereldvrede in gevaar brengen. Dit kan natuurlijk veranderen maar momenteel ziet het er niet naar uit. begin citaat " Today, the world faces an inflection point, where the choices we make — including in the crises in Europe and the Middle East — will determine the direction of our future for generations to come. What will our world look like on the other side of these conflicts? Will we deny Hamas the ability to carry out pure, unadulterated evil? Will Israelis and Palestinians one day live side by side in peace, with two states for two peoples? Will we hold Vladimir Putin accountable for his aggression, so the people of Ukraine can live free and Europe remains an anchor for global peace and security? And the overarching question: Will we relentlessly pursue our positive vision for the future, or will we allow those who do not share our values to drag the world to a more dangerous and divided place? Both Putin and Hamas are fighting to wipe a neighboring democracy off the map. And both Putin and Hamas hope to collapse broader regional stability and integration and take advantage of the ensuing disorder. America cannot, and will not, let that happen. For our own national security interests — and for the good of the entire world. The United States is the essential nation. We rally allies and partners to stand up to aggressors and make progress toward a brighter, more peaceful future. The world looks to us to solve the problems of our time. That is the duty of leadership, and America will lead. For if we walk away from the challenges of today, the risk of conflict could spread, and the costs to address them will only rise. We will not let that happen. That conviction is at the root of my approach to supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue to defend their freedom against Putin’s brutal war. We know from two world wars in the past century that when aggression in Europe goes unanswered, the crisis does not burn itself out. It draws America in directly. That’s why our commitment to Ukraine today is an investment in our own security. It prevents a broader conflict tomorrow. We are keeping American troops out of this war by supporting the brave Ukrainians defending their freedom and homeland. We are providing them with weapons and economic assistance to stop Putin’s drive for conquest, before the conflict spreads farther. The United States is not doing this alone. More than 50 nations have joined us to ensure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself. Our partners are shouldering much of the economic responsibility for supporting Ukraine. We have also built a stronger and more united NATO, which enhances our security through the strength of our allies, while making clear that we will defend every inch of NATO territory to deter further Russian aggression. Our allies in Asia are standing with us as well to support Ukraine and hold Putin accountable, because they understand that stability in Europe and in the Indo-Pacific are inherently connected. We stand firmly with the Israeli people as they defend themselves against the murderous nihilism of Hamas. On Oct. 7, Hamas slaughtered 1,200 people, including 35 American citizens, in the worst atrocity committed against the Jewish people in a single day since the Holocaust. Infants and toddlers, mothers and fathers, grandparents, people with disabilities, even Holocaust survivors were maimed and murdered. Entire families were massacred in their homes. Young people were gunned down at a music festival. Bodies riddled with bullets and burned beyond recognition. And for over a month, the families of more than 200 hostages taken by Hamas, including babies and Americans, have been living in hell, anxiously waiting to discover whether their loved ones are alive or dead. At the time of this writing, my team and I are working hour by hour, doing everything we can to get the hostages released. And while Israelis are still in shock and suffering the trauma of this attack, Hamas has promised that it will relentlessly try to repeat Oct. 7. It has said very clearly that it will not stop. The Palestinian people deserve a state of their own and a future free from Hamas. I, too, am heartbroken by the images out of Gaza and the deaths of many thousands of civilians, including children. Palestinian children are crying for lost parents. Parents are writing their child’s name on their hand or leg so they can be identified if the worst happens. Palestinian nurses and doctors are trying desperately to save every precious life they possibly can, with little to no resources. Every innocent Palestinian life lost is a tragedy that rips apart families and communities. Our goal should not be simply to stop the war for today — it should be to end the war forever, break the cycle of unceasing violence, and build something stronger in Gaza and across the Middle East so that history does not keep repeating itself. Just weeks before Oct. 7, I met in New York with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The main subject of that conversation was a set of substantial commitments that would help both Israel and the Palestinian territories better integrate into the broader Middle East. That is also the idea behind the innovative economic corridor that will connect India to Europe through the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Israel, which I announced together with partners at the Group of 20 summit in India in early September. Stronger integration between countries creates predictable markets and draws greater investment. Better regional connection — including physical and economic infrastructure — supports higher employment and more opportunities for young people. That’s what we have been working to realize in the Middle East. It is a future that has no place for Hamas’s violence and hate, and I believe that attempting to destroy the hope for that future is one reason that Hamas instigated this crisis. This much is clear: A two-state solution is the only way to ensure the long-term security of both the Israeli and Palestinian people. Though right now it may seem like that future has never been further away, this crisis has made it more imperative than ever. A two-state solution — two peoples living side by side with equal measures of freedom, opportunity and dignity — is where the road to peace must lead. Reaching it will take commitments from Israelis and Palestinians, as well as from the United States and our allies and partners. That work must start now. To that end, the United States has proposed basic principles for how to move forward from this crisis, to give the world a foundation on which to build. To start, Gaza must never again be used as a platform for terrorism. There must be no forcible displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, no reoccupation, no siege or blockade, and no reduction in territory. And after this war is over, the voices of Palestinian people and their aspirations must be at the center of post-crisis governance in Gaza. As we strive for peace, Gaza and the West Bank should be reunited under a single governance structure, ultimately under a revitalized Palestinian Authority, as we all work toward a two-state solution. I have been emphatic with Israel’s leaders that extremist violence against Palestinians in the West Bank must stop and that those committing the violence must be held accountable. The United States is prepared to take our own steps, including issuing visa bans against extremists attacking civilians in the West Bank. The international community must commit resources to support the people of Gaza in the immediate aftermath of this crisis, including interim security measures, and establish a reconstruction mechanism to sustainably meet Gaza’s long-term needs. And it is imperative that no terrorist threats ever again emanate from Gaza or the West Bank. If we can agree on these first steps, and take them together, we can begin to imagine a different future. In the months ahead, the United States will redouble our efforts to establish a more peaceful, integrated and prosperous Middle East — a region where a day like Oct. 7 is unthinkable. In the meantime, we will continue working to prevent this conflict from spreading and escalating further. I ordered two U.S. carrier groups to the region to enhance deterrence. We are going after Hamas and those who finance and facilitate its terrorism, levying multiple rounds of sanctions to degrade Hamas’s financial structure, cutting it off from outside funding and blocking access to new funding channels, including via social media. I have also been clear that the United States will do what is necessary to defend U.S. troops and personnel stationed across the Middle East — and we have responded multiple times to the strikes against us. I also immediately traveled to Israel — the first American president to do so during wartime — to show solidarity with the Israeli people and reaffirm to the world that the United States has Israel’s back. Israel must defend itself. That is its right. And while in Tel Aviv, I also counseled Israelis against letting their hurt and rage mislead them into making mistakes we ourselves have made in the past. From the very beginning, my administration has called for respecting international humanitarian law, minimizing the loss of innocent lives and prioritizing the protection of civilians. Following Hamas’s attack on Israel, aid to Gaza was cut off, and food, water and medicine reserves dwindled rapidly. As part of my travel to Israel, I worked closely with the leaders of Israel and Egypt to reach an agreement to restart the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance to Gazans. Within days, trucks with supplies again began to cross the border. Today, nearly 100 aid trucks enter Gaza from Egypt each day, and we continue working to increase the flow of assistance manyfold. I’ve also advocated for humanitarian pauses in the conflict to permit civilians to depart areas of active fighting and to help ensure that aid reaches those in need. Israel took the additional step to create two humanitarian corridors and implement daily four-hour pauses in the fighting in northern Gaza to allow Palestinian civilians to flee to safer areas in the south. This stands in stark opposition to Hamas’s terrorist strategy: hide among Palestinian civilians. Use children and innocents as human shields. Position terrorist tunnels beneath hospitals, schools, mosques and residential buildings. Maximize the death and suffering of innocent people — Israeli and Palestinian. If Hamas cared at all for Palestinian lives, it would release all the hostages, give up arms, and surrender the leaders and those responsible for Oct. 7. As long as Hamas clings to its ideology of destruction, a cease-fire is not peace. To Hamas’s members, every cease-fire is time they exploit to rebuild their stockpile of rockets, reposition fighters and restart the killing by attacking innocents again. An outcome that leaves Hamas in control of Gaza would once more perpetuate its hate and deny Palestinian civilians the chance to build something better for themselves. And here at home, in moments when fear and suspicion, anger and rage run hard, we have to work even harder to hold on to the values that make us who we are. We’re a nation of religious freedom and freedom of expression. We all have a right to debate and disagree and peacefully protest, but without fear of being targeted at schools or workplaces or elsewhere in our communities. In recent years, too much hate has been given too much oxygen, fueling racism and an alarming rise in antisemitism in America. That has intensified in the wake of the Oct. 7 attacks. Jewish families worry about being targeted in school, while wearing symbols of their faith on the street or otherwise going about their daily lives. At the same time, too many Muslim Americans, Arab Americans and Palestinian Americans, and so many other communities, are outraged and hurting, fearing the resurgence of the Islamophobia and distrust we saw after 9/11. We can’t stand by when hate rears its head. We must, without equivocation, denounce antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate and bias. We must renounce violence and vitriol and see each other not as enemies but as fellow Americans. In a moment of so much violence and suffering — in Ukraine, Israel, Gaza and so many other places — it can be difficult to imagine that something different is possible. But we must never forget the lesson learned time and again throughout our history: Out of great tragedy and upheaval, enormous progress can come. More hope. More freedom. Less rage. Less grievance. Less war. We must not lose our resolve to pursue those goals, because now is when clear vision, big ideas and political courage are needed most. That is the strategy that my administration will continue to lead — in the Middle East, Europe and around the globe. Every step we take toward that future is progress that makes the world safer and the United States of America more secure." Einde Citaat Read the full article

[bucklemonster2]

4.28 Contradiction Life

4.28 Contradiction Life Poem by Emilia Sameyn 16/11/2023 (NEDERLANDS BENEDEN)

Warning: Slacking, Joblessness, Depression?

He has a Master's Degree, Yet no Work Nothing must be Done, yet He has no Time

Awake during Day, yet can't Sleep at Night He's a NonConformist, yet Doesn't Party All Night and Day

He's Open-Minded, yet Never took Drgs. He wants Love, but not a Relation He's NonMonogamous, yet Never had Sx

He has Friends, yet feels Lonely He goes Outside, but never meets People He loves Nature but gets Lost in the City

There has Never been so much Food Yet he never Eats He wants to be Useful but Unable to Do It

Surviving has Never been this Easy Yet he Struggles to Survive

He Wishes to Live yet Longs for Death He Lives a Simple Life, yet He's so Complex Neither Man nor Woman

He likes Kids, but Doesn't want Any Loves his Family and Friends But never visits Them

Never been so Connected, Never been so Lonely

They Promised it would Stay there Forever Only to take it Away

He says he is Normal, yet this Crazy World Calls him Utterly Insane

Normal people Turn Out to be Weirdos And Weirdo's Turn Out to be Squares

Life is so Little, Yet so Big They promised it Would be Easy and Simple But all is Hard and Complex It's a Contradiction, A Contradiction Life

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4.28 Contradictie Leven Gedicht van Emilia Sameyn 16/11/2023

Waarschuwing: Slacking, Werkloosheid, Depressie?

Hij heeft een MasterDiploma, maar Geen Werk Er Moet niets Gedaan zijn, maar hij heeft Geen Tijd

Overdag Wakker, maar 's Nachts niet kunnen Slapen Hij is een Non-Conformist, maar Feest niet De hele Nacht en Dag

Hij is Ruimdenkend, maar heeft nooit Drgs gebruikt Hij wil Liefde, maar geen Relatie Hij is Niet Monogaam, maar heeft nooit Sks gehad

Hij heeft Vrienden, maar voelt zich Eenzaam Hij gaat naar Buiten, maar ontmoet nooit Mensen Hij houdt van de Natuur, maar verdwaalt in de Stad

Er is nog nooit zoveel Eten geweest Toch Eet hij nooit Hij wil Nuttig zijn, maar kan niets Doen

Overleven was nog Nooit zo Eenvoudig Toch Worstelt hij te Leven

Hij wil Bestaan, maar Verlangt naar Dood Hij leidt een Simpel Leven, maar toch is hij Complex Noch Man noch Vrouw

Hij ziet graag Kinderen, maar Wil er Geen Houdt van Familie en Vrienden Maar Bezoekt ze Nooit

Nog nooit zo Verbonden, Nog nooit zo Eenzaam

Ze beloofden dat Het daar voor Altijd zou blijven Alleen maar om het Weg te halen

Hij zegt dat hij Normaal is, maar toch noemt deze Zotte Wereld Hem Volkomen Krankzinnig

Normale mensen blijken Weirdos te zijn En Weirdo's blijken Saai en Normaal te zijn

Het leven is zo Klein en toch zo Groot Ze beloofden dat het Simpel en Eenvoudig zou zijn Maar alles is Moeilijk en Complex Het is Tegenstrijdig, Een Tegenstrijdig Leven

[medewerkers]

Wijzigingen

🌟 Nieuw

Afgelopen weekend kwam Brick Whartley voorbij om ons de mogelijkheid te bieden reacties aan berichten op het web toe te voegen. Inmiddels is hij weer vertrokken.

Afbeeldingen in de blogarchieven worden nu vaker getoond. Als de eerste drie blokken van een bericht tekst en een afbeelding bevatten, wordt de tekst over een afbeelding geplaatst in plaats van in een wit kader.

Op het web tonen berichten waarvoor Blaze is geactiveerd nu een vlammend icoontje naast de blognaam in de header van het bericht.

Er zijn diverse verbeteringen aan het tabblad ‘Recent’ op zoekpagina's aangebracht, waaronder het flexibeler maken van sommige filters.

Reblogs van gevolgde blogs die je mogelijk hebt gemist, worden nu ook getoond in het tabblad ‘Wat je hebt gemist’ van het dashboard en in pushmeldingen.

🛠️ Fixes

We hebben een probleem opgelost dat ertoe kon leiden dat pagina's van de Volglijst leeg waren, waardoor het niet meer werkte voordat het einde van de lijst werd bereikt.

We hebben een probleem opgelost waardoor gebruikers intimidatie in de vragen/bijdragen op het web niet konden melden.

Het zoeken naar GIF's houdt nu correct rekening met je instellingen van communitylabels.

Een bug verholpen die kon voorkomen dat activiteititems over nieuwe reacties aan berichten werden toegevoegd. Bovendien voorkomen we nu dat er meerdere dubbele activiteiten zijn wanneer een blog dat je volgt live gaat op Tumblr Live - je ziet nu slechts één activiteitenitem.

Een bug in TumblrMart verholpen waardoor voor sommige items voorbeeldafbeeldingen konden ontbreken.

In het tabblad ‘Je tags’ van het dashboard op het web wordt bij gebruik van het filter de geschiedenis van de terugknop van de browser niet langer gewist.

Op mobiele browsers werden de activiteiten- en berichtentellers buiten het scherm geplaatst wanneer het navigatiemenu werd weergegeven. Deze tellers zijn opnieuw opgenomen in het navigatiemenu, naast de items waarnaar ze verwijzen.

De metadata-tags in de embed-code voor Tumblr-berichten bevatten nu een canonieke URL voor het bericht. Dit voorkomt dat Google en andere zoekmachines deze links dubbel of onjuist indexeren.

🚧  Nog mee bezig

Onze teams zijn op de hoogte van de vertragingen in pushmeldingen op Android. Dit kan een probleem zijn met Firebase, de dienst van Google die deze meldingen afhandelt.

Het lijkt erop dat Instagram de mogelijkheid heeft verwijderd om berichten automatisch op Tumblr te publiceren. We gaan na of dit een opzettelijke verandering is of niet.

Enkele gebruikers hebben ons erop gewezen dat sommige afbeeldingen in de Android-app ‘erg klein’ zijn. Onze teams werken aan een oplossing.

🌱 Binnenkort

Momenteel is er niets te melden.

Heb je een probleem? Dien een supportverzoek in (bij voorkeur in het Engels), dan nemen we zo snel mogelijk contact met je op!

Wil je feedback over iets geven? Ga dan naar onze Work in Progress-blog en ga in gesprek met de community!

[devosopmaandag]

Dit ene leven

Voor mijn vader bestonden er een aantal geleefde levens. Er was dat leven van het kind zonder vader, dan dat met een vreemde vader, dat van zijn eigen huwelijk met een mooie jonge vrouw met zwarte vlechten en twee jongetjes. Dan volgt het leven van zijn krijgsgevangenschap, van weduwnaar zijn met één zoontje, van zijn tweede huwelijk met twee nieuwe kinderen en twee stiefzonen, van zijn soms moeizame leven in Nederland en dat van na zijn pensionering. Mijn vader las geen boeken, zag geen films, hij leefde zijn leven van dat moment. Behalve dan nadat hij zijn Indië voorgoed verlaten moest. Daarna leidde hij twee levens: het leven van alledag en dat van wat voorgoed voorbij was. Zijn herinneringen waren zijn boeken en films. Dan was hij verdwenen, staarde in de verte, rookte zijn sigaret en verlangde dáár te zijn. 'Toen' werd een soort 'daar'. Tijd en ruimte vermengden zich tot een krachtige innerlijke werkelijkheid.

Ik zat zondag in de bioscoop en keek naar de levens van Nae (later Nora) Young, Hae Sung en Arthur Zaturansky*. Tijd en ruimte vermengden zich daar tot een krachtige visuele werkelijkheid. Eerst is er het leven van twee Koreaanse schoolkinderen. Het meisje vertelt haar moeder dat ze later met Hae zal trouwen. Dan is er haar late kindertijd in Toronto, vervolgens haar leven in New York, waarin Nae en Hae als volwassenen intensief face time-contact hebben. Zij breekt dat plotseling af. Weer een leven volgt, waarin zij getrouwd is met Arthur en waarin op een dag Nae naar New York komt, eigenlijk om haar te zien. Alles wat voorafgaat mondt uiteindelijk uit in de paar luttele dagen van hun eerste ontmoeting na vierentwintig jaar. Ik word die paar dagen ingezogen, ik leef in het donker in een krachtige werkelijkheid. Mijn hart breekt een beetje, eigen oude pijnen laten zich voelen.

'Past Lives' heet de film. Veelbetekenend maakte ik een vergissing toen ik vriendin G een bericht stuurde en zei dat ik naar 'Lost Lives' was geweest. Dat zou een oppervlakkige titel zijn geweest voor een uiterst trage en verfijnde film die zo precies is in het blootleggen van verlangen, pijn en twijfel. De film wijst me op wat ik al weet: dat het leven 'precair' is. Waarom is dat het eerste woord dat mij te binnen schiet? Precair, dat is toch zoiets als breekbaar en wankel? Niet helemaal. Het is ontleend aan het Latijnse 'precarius', dat oorspronkelijk 'als gunst verleend/verkregen' betekende en daardoor ook 'van tijdelijke aard' en 'onzeker, onbestendig'. Het is afgeleid van het werkwoord precari 'smeken, verzoeken', dat zelf een afleiding is van prex/preces 'gebed, smeekbede, verzoek'**. Een leven laat zich natuurlijk niet afsmeken. Eenmaal daar beschouwen we het al te gemakkelijk als verworven bezit. We willen liever niet weten hoe toevallig het zijn vorm heeft gekregen, dat leven van ons dat zo vol is van voorgoed voorbije levens.

* 'Past Lives'| 2023 | regie en script: Celine Song | met: Greta Lee, Teo Young, John Magaro

** website Onze Taal

[handlewithcare-delicate]

ik heb van alle pakketbezorgers live tracking nodig

het is niet genoeg om te weten dat mijn pakket tussen zeven en acht komt ik moet op de kaart kunnen zien wanneer hij mijn straat binnenrijdt anders ben ik niet mentaal voorbereid