#I would have no idea how anyone should wield those

[parttime-creative]

I recently made a post about how I love gideons different depictions in fanart and on the cover (x) in which I mused about how I still wasn't sure if she was wielding a long sword or a great sword and several people have made good points of arguing that she is wielding a great sword not just a long sword.

Now that I've started to read Harrow for the first time (yes I am late to the party I am sorry. But I finally got the second and third book) her sword is more often described as a "two hander" or "great two hander" (which btw STILL doesn't make it clearer for me because Harrow is arguable so tiny and scrawny that she'd probably call a dagger "great" in comparison to her noodle arms... But that is beside the point xD) however the cover art (as I've not yet finished HtN) does look like another weird mixture between a longsword and a great sword and I remain confused.

The handle is much longer than for a usual longsword, however would fit a federschwert (a different type of longsword especially made for fencing, not so much for the battlefield. It's blade is usually much thinner tho, so I doubt it is a federschwert) it's crossguard also is kinda too big for the usual longsword, yet not entirely unseen. I did wield longswords with a crossguard like that.

However judging from nothing but the cover I do still think Gideon wields a longsword. Because the cover sword is just TOO SMALL for an actual greatsword.

I dont believe people realise HOW FUCKING HUGE an actual greatsword is. Like, yes Harrow is supposedly small so the sword on the cover DOES look big on her. But it is diagonally on her back and now reaches almost her knees. An actual GREATSWORD wouldn't even fit that way or her back (yes it's a fantasy drawing, yes usually swords like that can not be carried to draw on the back regardless if it's a long or great sword. We're gonna ignore that, cuz magic and necromancers and lyctors)

So I remain with my headcanon, that Gideon wields a longsword and not a greatsword.

To summarize:

A longsword is made for dueling AND for the battlefield

A longsword has several similar and adaptable techniques to a rapier in wielding.

A longsword is however heavier than a rapier, so a life long longsword fighter would have habits that would make their rapier fighting style uncanny ("you wield your sword like someone who is used to a two handed weapon")

A longsword CAN be wielded with one hand (a great sword 100% can't. It's just too damn big)

A greatsword is literally made to swing around yourself to makd room on the battlefield. Its slow if you want to hit something and it needs A LOT of momentum to be wielded. It was made to slay horses and break spears and knock people off their feet. If someone is used to wielding a greatsword all their life, learning the nimble techniques of a rapier in several days maybe a few weeks is.... hard to say the least. Their muscles wouldn't even be made for that.

A longsword is also called "zweihander" in german so harrow or gideon calling it a "two hander" is absolutely legit.

And last but not least, Harrow calling it a "great two hander".... Is just because she is DAMN tiny. I am 165 cm / 5' 4'' and my longsword reaches to my chest and it is not one of the big ones.

In conclusion: FOR ME IT IS MOST DEFINITELY A LONGSSWORD AND NOW I CAN COSPLAY/IMAGINE BEING GIDEON EVERYTIME DURING MY FENCING LESSONS EHEHEHEHEH

[loveguts]

i’m not a transandrophobia truther in the slightest don’t get me wrong, but i think some people on here really need to realize and comprehend the fact that cis women, way WAY more often than not, hold extremely significant social and political power over trans men the vast majority of the time in our day to day lives

[solarmorrigan]

No Accounting for Taste

For the @steddie-spooktober day 11 prompt: "That is the dumbest looking jack-o-lantern I've ever seen." Rated: T | Words: 1114 | CW: None | Tags: established relationship, bickering, fluff, annoying older brother behavior Divider credit: @steddiecameraroll-graphics

Follows day 3: Tastes Better on You

“Wait, no, not like that.”

“Do you want to do this?”

“No, I just – like, you should make it a little pointier there and–”

“I will give you the knife, just–”

“Steve, if you’re going to stab Eddie, can I have his share of the pumpkin seeds?”

Steve and Eddie both look up from the pumpkin they’ve been arguing over to where Max has spoken from across the kitchen.

“Also, I’ll need a new ride home, if you do,” she adds, her own focus still on carving out the mouth of the pumpkin she and El are collaborating on.

“I’m not going to stab Eddie.” Steve rolls his eyes. “At least, not if he makes up his mind.”

“I have made up my mind!” Eddie insists. “It’s very made up! I’m trying to impart my vision of a perfect jack-o-lantern to you, and things are getting lost in translation.”

“Uh huh.” Steve turns an unimpressed look back on the pumpkin. “You want the eyes pointier?”

“Yeah. Really make those corners sharp,” Eddie says, dragging his finger around the edges of the eyes Steve has already carved in.

“Well, I’m wielding a steak knife, but I’ll see what I can do,” Steve drawls.

“I’m using a steak knife and I’m not having problems,” Dustin pipes up from behind his pumpkin.

“Having problems keeping quiet is what you’re having,” Steve mutters, already applying himself to carving out the corners of the eyes, and Eddie snorts out a laugh.

Sharing a pumpkin had seemed like such a good idea at first. Max had offered to share with El, since El had never carved a pumpkin before, and they aren’t having issues. And at first, neither had Eddie and Steve; Eddie had dealt with the “slimy shit” and gutted the pumpkin, as promised, and then he’d pressed the handle of the knife into Steve’s hand.

“I killed it, now you’re going to carve it,” he’d insisted.

(This had been as much to include Steve as it had been to keep him from snapping at anyone who came too close to getting pumpkin innards on the kitchen floor.)

“Are you sure?” Steve had asked. “I haven’t carved a pumpkin in a long time. I don’t even know what to put on there.”

“Of course I’m sure.” Eddie had pecked a kiss to Steve’s cheek. “You carve, I’ll direct. I have a vision.”

It turns out, however, that getting Steve to see his vision has been rather difficult. It has so far involved a lot of charades, references to movies Steve hasn’t seen, and one instance of attempting to use Mike as a prop (this had been short-lived and not particularly helpful). The results are… mixed.

Steve is certainly getting the eyes to a finer point, though Eddie will admit there are limitations in using a steak knife as a carving tool (he would, however, love to see Mrs. Harrington’s face if she were to learn that her nice cutlery had been used on pumpkins by a feral pack of teenage misfits). The nose needs some fine-tuning, and the mouth is… well, Steve had done his best. That one’s kind of on Eddie; he’d told Steve to make the teeth “needlelike,” and a few had come out so thin that they’d snapped right off.

But the remaining ones do look like needles!

“Okay, so, for the ears–” Eddie starts, only to be cut off when Steve’s head snaps up from his work.

“Just how complicated is this thing supposed to be?” he demands.

“We’re almost done, I swear.” Eddie tosses his hands up in surrender.

Eyeing him with suspicion, Steve is likely just about to tell Eddie how far he trusts that assurance when Mike stumbles right into their staring match.

“Hey, do you guys have the– holy shit.” He pauses, whatever it is he’d been about to ask for forgotten as he takes in an eyeful of their pumpkin. “That is the dumbest looking jack-o-lantern I’ve ever seen.”

“Okay, y’know what, Wheeler?” Steve gestures at Mike, apparently forgetting (probably?) that he’s holding a knife as he does so.

“Actually, Michael,” Eddie jumps in, subtly pushing Steve’s hand down in the process, “our jack-o-lantern is genius.”

Mike shoots him an impressively bitchy look of disbelief, so Eddie goes on.

“See, the rest of you can have your pretty, symmetrical pumpkins, carved up all nice and neat, but do you know what that’s going to attract?” Eddie looks around at the assembled teenagers without waiting for an answer. “Vandals! Nothing is more tempting on Halloween night than the prospect of smashing a perfectly carved jack-o-lantern.”

“And you know this, how?” Lucas snarks.

Eddie ignores him. “Meanwhile, mine and Steve’s masterpiece will be practically invisible. It’ll escape the night unscathed and live to see the dawn of November!”

“Because it looks like someone already kicked it in,” Mike deadpans.

“It’s called camouflage, Wheeler,” Eddie shoots back.

“D’you think Mike’s will be the first to go?” Steve leans in, stage whispering to Eddie.

“It’s a pretty tempting target,” Eddie agrees in an undertone that isn’t at all quiet. “But then, Henderson’s is pretty big…”

“Hey!” Dustin squawks, popping up from behind the pumpkin that had nearly taken both him and Steve to get from the van to the kitchen.

This is the beginning of squabble over whose pumpkin is nicest and thus most likely to be vandalized, and whether or not this is a compliment, which Eddie observes with glee.

“Steve!” El calls over the ruckus. “I am finished with the seeds.”

While Steve can’t stand the feeling of pumpkin guts on his skin, El had deiced the sensation was a delight, and so had been tasked with separating the seeds from the pulp for roasting. She’d taken to the task with single-minded zeal, only emerging to offer the occasional opinion as Max carved their pumpkin.

“That’s my cue.” Steve hands the knife to Eddie and presses a kiss to the corner of his mouth. “I’ll let you take care of the ears.”

Eddie watches as Steve crosses through the chaos of the kitchen, dodging waving hands and piles of pumpkin chunks to reach El on the other side.

“Wow,” Steve says, eyeing the large bowl she’s nearly filled, “that is a shit-ton of seeds.”

“A shit-ton,” El agrees solemnly.

“Yep, Hopper’s going to appreciate me teaching you that one.” Steve claps his hands together. “C’mon, let’s get those rinsed, and then we’ll season them.”

Turning back to the mess that is their shared jack-o-lantern, surrounded by the din of arguing teenagers, Eddie can’t help but grin. There’s really no saving the thing, but he thinks he loves it anyway.

[tommykinard6]

Should I be eating and resting? Yes. Am I? No, so come join me for a dissertation on Tommy Kinard being lonely.

Edit to add a note since I saw a reblog about it: Tommy has no canonical age right now and Lou is 39, 40 later this year, so that is my basis for saying he’s 39.

Now when I say lonely, I don’t mean that he has no one whatsoever. I can picture him going for drinks with his team or having some Muay Thai buddies that he could call up if he really was inclined. Maybe an old army buddy or two.

But there’s something about Tommy that’s just achingly lonely, both when he was at the 118 and now at Harbor.

Tommy had a broken home, or some other kind of unstable childhood. Maybe his parents split, maybe he was mistreated, maybe he was in the system or was passed around family members. Maybe he was isolated as a child because he was a little overweight (I think Lou said something along those lines) and was bullied. I think Tommy didn’t really have any friends until high school, when puberty hit and maybe he started working out and probably joined the football team. I don’t know if anyone remembers what teenage boys are like, but I can imagine they were the same as they are today back in the 90s/early 00’s. Because around this time, Tommy might’ve started to realize that something was very different about him.

Now this isn’t a meta about how I think Tommy dealt with his sexuality (maybe I’ll do one of those later) but I think he never would’ve risked his football friends knowing even if he himself could acknowledge it, which I doubt. So he messed around, got in trouble with these guys, hung out with the bros, and pretended to be interested in girl talk.

Of course, eventually, his buddies all got girlfriends and he was always the odd one out again.

He didn’t do college. The army was his next step. And I feel like this might have been the first time in his life he wasn’t lonely. He’d learned to blend in by this point and he worked with some great people. But as he started making real friends for the first time, he also started losing them as the war tore them away.

Tommy left the army and joined the fire department. There was an aching hole where the camaraderie of the army had filled previously and with no education beyond a high school diploma, Tommy thought the fire department would replicate that. Not the police though. He’d had enough of guns.

(And ohhhh now so many ideas on his thoughts during the sniper)

But he ended up at the 118 and quickly realized that his team had maybe more of a DADT stance than the army. He realized that he had to put on an elaborate act to fool his fellow firefighters, who had more time on their hands and more prejudice they were willing to wield to pick apart his life. Tommy, who maybe had only just started to acknowledge he felt differently about guys with less panic than before, had no choice but to backslide. He acted and acted and crafted a person he wasn’t until the day that maybe he was. Sal was his closest buddy at the 118 and Tommy had no doubt that Sal would be one of the first to make his life hell. Gerrard seemed to look at Tommy as some sort of mentee. Boxed in by two notorious bigots, Tommy had never felt more claustrophobically alone.

Chim was the first one to reach out a hand of friendship, or at least the first one that didn’t come with caution tape, but he was also an “other” and Tommy, who was confused and afraid and had just had his captain call his bluff on his fake girlfriend, lashed out. Then he allowed Chim in and Chim wasn’t interested in being besties but he was a great drinking buddy and movie buddy and Tommy felt safest around him.

Then Hen came and Tommy watched her get the same treatment he was afraid of. Not that he had to worry about the racism, and he was aware of the privilege, but Hen didn’t exactly hide herself and he watched them bully his lesbian coworker. He let himself get pulled into it all and hated himself for it, but was too cowardly to break away from it. He wasn’t sure why Hen had forgiven him, but she became the only other person on shift he felt even a little safe around other than Howie. But then Chimney and Hen became best friends and Tommy fell to the wayside. They still included him, sure, but they were always a pair and there was something there that Tommy didn’t know but longed for. A closeness he’d never felt.

A best friend. A juvenile idea to him, but one he’d never truly had.

Then Gerrard was gone and Sal got transferred and the 118 moved forward under Captain Nash, but Tommy felt left behind, even in what was the most united A shift team yet. Because he was over 30 and was starting to be unable to ignore everything that he’d had to hide under Gerrard, as he no longer had a distraction from it.

He’d been a pilot in the army, so he transferred to Harbor. And Harbor was great. He wasn’t best buds with anyone (he was starting to think that was never in the cards for him) but his team didn’t carry the same baggage that the 118 had.

So Tommy started to come to terms with himself. He started to date for the first time and came out to his team. And he had several boyfriends, but most couldn’t handle the job or his baggage or the desperate need he had to be wanted. His most long term partner cheated and the one he fell hardest for couldn’t deal when Tommy was injured on the job. Even within his own relationships, he felt like he was destined to stand alone.

Tommy was 39 years old and alone, as always, when Chimney walked back into his life, dragging an adorable and also extremely hot blonde and a stoic brunette that radiated ex military in a way only ex military could know. And then Hen was there and they were trying to rescue their captain and his wife and they clearly loved each other fiercely and like family.

And as Tommy listened, flying through the remnants of a cat 5 hurricane, he thought to himself that he should’ve never left. Simply just never found himself if only that meant being part of the family the 118 was now. However, he knew deep down that he still would’ve been alone and on the outside.

And they rescued the survivors and Tommy thought that was it but then Eddie wanted to hang out. And they liked the same things and had similar experiences and Tommy couldn’t help the hope. Because the loneliness had grown stifling and now he could breathe a little. And then Evan, the cute blonde, wanted a tour of the hanger and he thought that maybe he was being hit on.

And then at the end of it all, Tommy was left realizing that he’d wedged himself between two best friends and that was what happened when he allowed himself to hope. So he went to Evan to apologize. He would get Evan and Eddie to talk to each other and then would fade into the background.

But then Evan was sweet and apologetic and told him that he was part of the 118 family simply by helping them. Tommy couldn’t help it. Here he was, at 39, with a little boy still waiting inside of him to be soothed. And Evan was hot and sweet and Tommy couldn’t help himself.

And he really liked Evan. Evan was adorable. But their first date didn’t go as planned and Tommy knew he was already whipped. So he removed himself before someone could get hurt. Evan deserved better and so did he, even if the loneliness was stifling again.

But then Evan texted him and looked at him with sparkling blue eyes over too sweet coffee and wanted him. Him. He wanted Tommy and to have something with Tommy and he wanted him to come to his sister’s wedding with him.

And Tommy looked at him and saw someone who could finally fill the ache he’d felt his whole life. He saw a man who he knew he wanted to take a chance with. All he had to do was jump.

And he did.

And it wasn’t solved, not immediately and never fully. Too many wounds were left gaping for too long to ever heal. But for the first time in his life, at 39, with the 118 surrounding him and Buck as the sunshine at his side, Tommy finally felt at peace.

[lost-in-fiction-like-ur-mom]

Hello lovely I hope this enough for a request but I was wondering if you would write a fic for Hunter x Jedi!Reader around season one. Hunter has the start of a crush on reader but once omega comes into the picture and he sees how good reader is with her he knows he needs to ask her out! Feel free to change whatever, I hope you like the idea!

I Will Protect You

Hunter x Reader

Summary- As a defective Jedi you are reassigned to The Bad Batch. How can you resist Hunter? Especially when he confesses after seeing how good you are with Omega.

A/N- Thank you so much for requesting! I LOVED this idea! I've contemplated doing something similar in the past, so I am so glad you requested this!

Word Count- 1,679

You remember being assigned to Clone Force 99 like it was yesterday. The day you were considered a 'defective' Jedi. While you were skilled in the force and an expert in wielding a lightsaber- you got attached.

In a mission gone wrong, you sacrificed yourself for your Jedi master. She was entirely grateful. Even though you made a full recovery, the Empire was not happy. Claiming you shouldn't have those 'emotional tendencies.'

You understood the purpose of severing all relationships, trying to only be one with the force. Emotions just came naturally to you! Connecting with all kinds of people, acting motherly to the less fortunate, and trying to be there for all of the clones.

The final straw for The Empire was when you were caught holding a small ceremony for a few fallen Clones. A fellow Jedi, you once called brother, turned you in.

You were immediately reassigned to Clone Force 99- labeled 'Defective.'

That was the same day you met Hunter. The first thing you noticed was his face tattoo, how attractive it looked. The skull covering half his face tickled your curiosity. You never had the courage to ask him about it, the whole 'don't get attached or you'll get reassigned' circled your mind.

You quickly grew to love Force 99. They accepted you, treated you like a human being. Not just a force wielder, something you'd never had. Despite your vow and upbringing, you considered them all to be your family.

Just under a year had gone by when Order 66 went out. You noticed how protective Hunter could be. He fought off droids, clones, and anyone who tried to harm you.

Not many knew of your Jedi background, allowing you to go into somewhat of a stealth mode. You acquired new gear, matching your team's. With a helmet on around others- your identity and life were safe. Though, you and Crosshairs friendship wavered...

The weight of your life always being at steak rested on you heavily. You couldn't sleep anymore, having gone days with low or no rest..

"Hunter, can we talk?" You asked him in the cockpit.

"Of course, what happened?" He looked worried.

Tech, however, does not even look up from his position as pilot.

"Uh, Tech, can we have a moment?" You asked, feeling a little guilty for making him leave.

Now he does look up, pressing some kind of 'auto-pilot' button. "Sure."

Great, now you already felt awkward.

"Look, I think I should go.." You got straight to the point. It hurt too much to draw it out.

Hunter's face fell, he was not expecting that. Though, a little part of you appreciated he cared so much.

"W-what?" He stepped closer to you.

"I just, well I just think it's for the best..." You fiddled with your fingers. The force felt moody, like something was off.

"Did something happen? Did Crosshair say anything! I swear I-"

"No, no. Nothing like that I promise!" You took the last step separating you. You were inches apart now.

"Did I do something?" He whispered, knowing he couldn't forgive himself if he did.

"No, I don't think there's anything you could do to make me turn from you." You whispered back, like a secret.

"Then what?" He softly asked.

You looked at the floor, unwilling to face him now. "I can't be the reason you guys are attacked. The Empire is after all Jedi's. You are all at risk if I am here..."

He, with the lightest touch, listed your chin up with a finger. "That doesn't matter... You're safest with us. You can't leave. Damn if the rest of us are in danger, I don't care. We will protect you. I won't let anyone take you." His voice was husky, he meant every word.

You didn't know how to respond, you were awestruck. Your legs felt like jello. All of your training out the window. You hadn't a thought except for him. Everything was suddenly him.

You just nodded, leaning further into his touch. Almost in a trance. You desperately craved his lips on yours. Just an inch forward and they'd be yours. So close-

A beeping made you gasp and pull away. Tech storming back in to the cockpit, taking his respective seat.

"Sorry to interrupt. We are about to land on Kamino."

You panted still, the exchange leaving you flustered. He eyed you, searching for any kind of rejection from you. Neither of you spoke with Tech in the room, you just looked at him with your head in the sky. You were unbelievably happy.

Unfortunately, you and Hunter were yet to bring that moment up again. Things kind of went back to normal, as you all got increasingly busy. Losing Crosshair and gaining Omega was a stressful time, you didn't have a second alone with Hunter. Even if you did want it more than anything.

Luckily, you had a calling to Omega. She was the sweetest girl you'd ever met, her positivity was inspiring.

You spent a lot of time with her, bonding especially when there was down time in-between missions. You also picked up on Hunters defensive and protective nature with her. He was undeniably acting as a father would.

"Yes, bullseye!" You jumped up and gave Omega a high-five. She was getting better everyday with her energy bow.

She laughed and bounced giddily.

"Now, lets see if you can hit a moving object." You encouraged her.

The two of you were far enough from the city to be hidden. You moved a small cart and a few bricks with the force. It slowly moved back and forth. It was hard concealing the powers you learned as a Jedi, but you soon adapted. Using the force less frequently as time went on.

She took a deep breath, inhaling as she pulled the bow string back. Just as she let the arrow go, it went flying past the target.

"Aw." She was visibly upset, not realizing how different moving targets were.

"Hey, it's okay. You should have seen me trying to move an object for the first time. It took me days to even lift a pebble." You proved your point by lifting a nearby stone up. "I still struggle sometimes..." You purposefully dropped the piece.

"You're so cool... I wish I was a Jedi! Then I wouldn't have to learn how to use an Energy Bow. I could just use my mind!" She made silly gestures. Moving a hand out to pretend she was wielding the force.

You smiled at her, deciding to shield her from the horrors of your childhood.

"I think an Energy Bow is just as cool. If not cooler!" You assured her.

"If you think so." She grumbled out, but ready to pull the string back again.

You sighed. "I think that's enough practice for today. It's getting late, honey." The sky was getting dark.

She looked displeased, "Why don't you go find Wrecker and get some dinner?"

She brightened up at this. "I'll save some for you too!"

You watched her as a mother would, making sure she was by Wreckers side before turning away.

"I can feel you staring." You announced, cleaning up the mess you and Omega made while training.

Footsteps were now heard as Hunter revealed himself. "Sorry." He acted as if you caught him doing something bad.

"Oh, I don't mind. I know you're just trying to keep Omega safe. Care to help?" You asked, bending down to place the brick back where they were found.

He walks to you, crouching to help. "Not just Omega." He says, lifting a few bricks.

"Hmm?"

"You as well." This made you blush lightly.

"Thank you, you know you'd make a really good father, right? Omega really looks up to you." You proclaimed, making sure Hunter knew his worth.

He stiffened, the words hitting his heart. "If anything she looks up to you. You're so good with her. It's..." He seemed to have regretted his choice of yours, continuing with- "You just always know what to say and do."

"It's what?" You asked, not letting him change the subject.

With a sigh he starts, "It's one of the reasons I love you so much." Another shift in the force, your heart thumping loud.

You stood, turning to him. A sense of Deja Vu rushed over you. To that day on the ship, the moment that was never resolved.

"You do?" You asked. Love was a feeling you were never supposed to feel as a Jedi.

"Have I not been clear? I live and breathe you..."

A flutter rests in your stomach. A sharp thrill reaching lower.

You walk to him, chest almost touching. "I don't think we finished what we started in the cockpit..." He declared, voice deep.

You shook your head. "No, we didn't. Are you going to make that up to me?" You spoke smug, but knew you'd melt at his touch.

"Only if you'll allow me..." A hand brushed against your forearm, resting there.

"Yes, of course..." He leaned down, his other hand now cupping your face.

He stopped just before his lips touched yours. "There won't be any going back." He whispered.

You didn't speak, only pushing yourself flush to him. It forced your lips to meet.

It was clumsy, you'd never done anything like this before. The Jedi code was very strict. You wondered if he had been with anyone else in that moment.

All of a sudden insecure over something you've yearned for.

Your thoughts were crushed with is next words, "You're perfect. So, so perfect." You turned a new shade of red, deeper and deeper.

"Watching you with Omega... Made me realize." He stopped, opting to kiss you once again.

You complied. He wrapped a hand around your waist, bringing you as close as you could be. Your arms lifted around his neck.

You pulled your head back slightly to breathe, "And what is that?"

"That I should ask this beautiful woman out." He stated, looking for your response.

"You didn't even have to ask..."

A/N- Thank you so much for reading! I loved writing this one, I hope you liked it!! It's like 1 am, so i'll come back and edit this when i'm not tired xD!

Tags- (lmk if you want to be tagged as well!) @thethreeeyed-raven @dangraccoon @knight-of-flowerss

[txttletale]

hi I've been following you for a while and I had some questions about MLism. First, while I think I have a decent understanding of how it works economically, how would a ML government (after the revolution) ensure it doesn't become too powerful? like what systems would be put in place so that it hears public opinion and dissent (should there be any) and not try to maintain power through oppressive means?

Secondly, what would the aftermath of the revolution look like? once the government is overthrown, there will most likely be a period of instability where different factions trying to sieze control. How would the MLs make sure that they get seated in power?

I am genuinely trying to learn more about it, so I'm sorry if those questions are ignorant. Thanks!

i mean, that first part? i'll be completely honest with you and say that in my opinion that's a partially unsolved problem. i think that lenin's prescriptions in state & revolution, based on the actions of the paris commune--that all 'officials' should be subject to democratic recall at any time and paid no more than anyone else--would be a good start.

but of course the USSR did not ossify and see abuses of power because its leaders simply forgot about what lenin wrote--the centralization of power and limiting of worker democracy was a direct result of the newly formed state apparatus having to fight brutal years-long civil war followed as mere decade later by a brutal years-long international invasion. & this is of course a situation that will be faced by any serious socialist government & their newly formed apparatus!

however, on the other hand -- cuba has succesfully maintained an incredible system of participatory democracy. i think that mao's idea of the 'mass line' -- that theory must constantly be in dialogue with the situation on the ground and the situation of the workers -- is vital to maintaining this. in its own time of crisis, during the 90s, instead of 'pulling the ladder up' on workers' councils, cuba expanded and doubled down on its participatory democracy. i think if any nation has succesfully followed lenin's theory and example, it's cuba, and the mass workplace and municipal democracy that the cuban communist party has invited should be the model for any future socialist revolution.

and quite frankly the reason why MLs will 'take power' after the revolution is because marxism-leninism is the only revolutionary socialist ideology with a plan and ability to take and maintain power over the bourgeoisie. i think one thing reading lenin will very much clarify is that the socialist state is not something that is built after the revolution but a continuation of the revolution -- lenin explains aptly the marxist position that, having taken up arms in order to dethrone the bourgeoisie, to not establish a marxist dictatorship of the proletariat is to throw aside those arms that have already been wielded and used. 'not setting up a worker's state' isn't inaction, but a deliberate choice to be disarmed and helpless in the face of foreign intervention or counterrevolution.

and this is also why i think that while solving the (very real and dangerous!) spectres of bureaucracy, of revisionism, of socialist militias becoming police forces "special bodies of men apart from and above" the people instead of "self-acting armed organizations" of the people is a vital and pressing question for marxism-leninism to address in both theory and practice, it is just as vital to note that only marxism-leninism can succeed to the point where this becomes a problem--only marxism-leninism has shown the historical ability to put the workers in a position of political supremacy that they might risk losing to these flaws and missteps.

& seriously, don't be sorry for asking questions. any questions in good faith are welcomed on this blog, because i'm a communist and i do in fact think it is my job to explain communism to people. have a nice day & don't be so down on yourself!

[mirai-e-jump]

Ohsama Sentai King-Ohger Character Book: Trails of the Kings and Retainers Main Cast Member Interviews (translations below, LONG POST)

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Sakai Taisei (Gira) x Morioka Yutaka (Douga)

"First, please introduce the character the other plays."

Sakai: At first, Douga was the kind of person who would cause tension and confront Gira, but after Gira ascended to the throne and became a close presence, I think Douga became a nice person who's always by Gira's side. The same goes for Morioka-san, who plays the role, as he's a dependable person who I respect very much.

Morioka: Thank you so much. Gira-sama grew up in an orphanage, and I think Douga was surprised to see that this young man, who at first seemed so unfamiliar to him, has become more and more involved as the backbone of the country. He became the current king, and Douga serves as his retainer, but Gira-sama has grown remarkably. In my mind, Gira-sama and Taisei-kun overlap, so I see him as a man that I'd like to serve sincerely, even going beyond our roles.

"Were there any surprising developments or settings for your role compared to when you were first cast?"

Sakai: I think the fundamentals of Gira have always remained the same. Rather than Gira, the exit and reappearance of other characters…I think the surprise of those developments were greater.

Morioka: One thing that remains consistent about Gira, is that he understands other people's feelings and pain better than anyone else.

Sakai: That's right. Even for main episodes of the other kings, Gira would stand next to them and inspire them. As the episodes went on, I realized that he was a person who could relate to what other people were thinking.

Morioka: Douga on the other hand has recently been referred to as an "interesting person" on SNS (laughs). Around episode 9, a celebrity from Chikyu, a genius boy named Kiito-kun with an IQ of 20,000 appeared, and Gira, who was a fugitive at the time, looked just like him in his disguise. Since Douga was there, I was asked to do a performance that showed a different side to him. For me personally, I was surprised, was it okay for Douga to approach and press some celebrity for an autograph?! (laughs).

Sakai: It's hard to imagine from Douga's early appearance.

Morioka: That's right. First of all, it was there that I was able to find a direction for my role. And thankfully, in episode 21, the main episode where Douga is on the move job hunting, I was able to "break out" again.

Sakai: I was also surprised, did you really expect to see Douga like this from the dignified appearance he showed in the first episode?! There was a comedic element to it, and I really think Morioka-san is amazing at portraying so many different sides to him.

"How would you describe the strength of Douga, who serves as the king's sword wielding retainer in the "strongest country" of Shugoddam?"

Morioka: Including in the spin offs, there were quite a few scenes where Douga gets blown away with a single attack (laughs). So, I thought he might be surprisingly weak, but he had an action scene in episode 40, and he was moving relatively well, so I thought that he was a person who could be in charge of the military.

Sakai: I feel that if there were a fight against the kings who aren't armed with the royal armor, Douga definitely wouldn't lose.

Morioka: You think so? I'm really grateful filming action scenes, they're fun to do.

"What are your thoughts on the relationship between Gira and Douga?"

Morioka: Douga was originally the retainer for Gira's older brother, Racules Husty, so there were times when I felt that it was very difficult to determine his position, but things have now been sorted out. Of course, he still has feelings for Racules, but I play Douga based on the idea that Gira-sama is the one who should come first.

Sakai: In most countries other than Shugoddam, the king leads their retainer, but since Gira is new to being king, I feel that he and Douga are growing together, and I think that relationship is a charm that the other countries don't have.

"Please tell us about any particular scenes between Gira and Douga that moved you."

Sakai: For me it's episode 29. There's a scene in which Douga says to Gira, "What the people need, is none other than Gira-sama!" I was so moved by this scene, that I felt emotional while performing.

Morioka: During filming, Taisei-kun said, "Morioka-san! Just now, that really hit me!"

Sakai: I became more aware that I was king, and I was moved by the way Douga's thoughts were conveyed.

Morioka: For me, it's episode 21, which I had mentioned earlier. In this scene, Douga, who had been job hunting in every county on Chikyu, eventually returns to Shugoddam and asks Gira-sama, "Will you let me work here?!" and Gira-sama empathizes with Douga. The combination of Gira-sama's kindness and Taisei-kun's kindness really touched me.

Sakai: That makes me happy!

"Starting with episode 27, the new chapter is set two years after the previous one. There's also a change in that Gira is now officially the king of Shugoddam, but were there any changes in the performance plan?"

Morioka: Yes. At first, I thought that although it had been two years, Douga was of a certain age, and that there would be little change in him, so I acted with the same expressionless face I had before. Then, Kamihori-san (Director Kamihoriuchi Kazuya) asked me to be alittle more softer, saying, "Douga-san, let's have a slight smile here." With that one comment, I interpreted that Douga had become more mature, or maybe more tolerant in the past two years since his partner changed from Racules to Gira-sama. He's been smiling alittle bit, and showing the various sides to him.

Sakai: Director Kamihoriuchi told me, "You don't have to change your performance just because it's two years later." However, in the prison scene in episode 29, the Director created a scene in which Gira bursts into laughter at Douga. When I saw that, I realized that when the Director said I didn't have to change my performance, he meant that I didn't have to think about anything complicated, and that he just wanted Gira to grow alittle. After that, I started to casually do things that I hadn't done in the beginning, such as saying my lines with a slightly lower tone of voice.

"In the variety show "Sokkin Sentai Sokkinger" which is distributed through the Toei Tokusatsu Fan Club (TTFC), Morioka-san mentioned, "In order to not to diminish king Racules's status, I keep my appearance neat," but is there anything you're aware of as Gira's retainer?"

Morioka: Basically, it's the same, but while he was more respectful of Racules, I feel like he's genuinely and sincerely in love with Gira-sama. When he was serving Racules, I thought that Racules had picked him up and put him in his current position, but with Gira-sama, he wants to support him from the ground up and raise him to be a real king. However, I feel that he's drawn in by something Gira-sama has hidden within him, and is prepared to sacrifice his life in a different sense than when he was Racules's retainer. That's why, even though he's a retainer, there are times where he clearly expresses his opinions to Gira-sama. To the viewers, he may seem like a fatherly figure, but I myself think it's different from the feeling of parent and child.

"Do you remember the first time you two met each other?"

Morioka: I remember it well. I'll never forget, it was at the beginning of filming. As I remember, we were filming the scene where the kings came to Shugoddam with their retainers and begin the meeting of the five kingdoms. Taisei-kun came to the scene even though he wasn't supposed to appear.

Sakai: It was the first day of filming after all, so I thought I'd like to greet everyone and look around…

Morioka: Then, I think it was during a commemorative photo, that I noticed a slender, cute boy with silky hair standing next to me, and he greeted me by saying, "I'm Sakai Taisei, I'll be playing Gira." I said, "Oh, it's you!"

Sakai: Ahahaha!

Morioka: A kid with such sparkling eyes…I could already tell that he was a good kid.

Sakai: No, no (embarrassed). What I remember very clearly is the scene filmed at Kiyosumi Shirakawa BASE in the first episode. At that time, I think I was overly enthusiastic and was trying to, "Absorb everything I could!" But, Morioka-san gave me advice in a kind and gentle way, without a hint of looking annoyed. So, from the very beginning, I've had the impression that he's a "bundle of kindness."

Morioka: Haha. Also, the scene where Gira-sama appears for the first time inside Caucasuskabuto Castle and pleads for help with, "If you have this (the OhgerCalibur), you can save everyone, right?!" and, "That's why you (Racules) have got to use it!" was very memorable.

Sakai: It was the most difficult scene…

Morioka: It was the first important scene, a crucial point in the story.

Sakai: I ended up doing about 20 takes for one cut…However, Morioka-san didn't look annoyed and just went along with it.

Morioka: It wasn't just me, everyone who was there, including Racules (played by Masato Yano), was like, "Do your best!" I thought Kamihori-san's direction was amazing, and I was moved by how humble Sakai Taisei's earnest efforts to respond to them were.

"Over the past year, do you feel that Sakai-san's performance has changed?"

Morioka: I feel that it really has.

Sakai: Really?!

Morioka: Not just with Taisei-kun, but I feel this way about the entire cast. Well, Kaku So-san who plays Kaguragi Dybowski has alot of experience, so he's abit different. But, I really think Taisei-kun has changed the most. When we were filming the first episode that was mentioned earlier, Taisei-kun had alot of work to do. Even though he could've approached things from a different angle, he listened exactly to what the Director told him, responding with, "Yes!" and, "I see!"

Sakai: So embarrassing…

Morioka: Now, I can feel that he's listening to what the Director wants, and is trying to break it down so it can be put into the performance

Sakai: Over the past year, I've gradually become able to do this, but there are still many challenges.

Morioka: If anything, I don't have much time left as Douga now (laughs).

Sakai: Stop that! I once previously said directly to Morioka-san that he seems to enjoy acting more than anyone else. Do you actually feel excited as you perform the role, thinking, "What should I do here?"

Morioka: I do. It's fun to think about what I'm going to do. However, I'm very nervous, so I try to be well prepared so that I don't have to worry about how the others will react during the actual performance. So, it's always a battle between "fun" and "nervousness."

"If Douga were to arm himself with royal armor, what kind of warrior would you want him to be?"

Morioka: I'm also a boy, so I think a cool bug would be nice, however, the name Douga apparently comes from the cupreous chafer beetle (douganebuibui).

Sakai: Eh, Is that right?!

Morioka: I was told by fans that it might be so, but I don't know if it's really true or not (laughs). Ah, in episode 25, since Douga rode in Guardian Hercules when the retainers piloted God King-Ohger, I also admire warriors with a hercules beetle motif.

"If you have any questions you'd like to ask each other, please do so."

Morioka: If we were to meet in another production, what kind of show would it be, and what kind of relationship would you like us to play?

Sakai: I'd like to do a yakuza story. I'd like to be Morioka-san's henchman and say something like, (in a low voice) "Aniki!"

Morioka: That's good! It sounds interesting.

Sakai: On the other hand, what kind of production would Morioka-san like to work on with me?

Morioka: Taisei-kun plays the role of a heroine's lover, and I play the role of the heroine's father. I think a production that depicts everyday life would also be good.

Sakai: Sounds good!

Morioka: There's one other situation I'd like to try! I'm a lawyer and Taisei-kun is a suspect, and he'd be like, "Lawyer-san, I didn't do it!"

Sakai: (acting realistically) "Lawyer-san, I didn't do it!"

Sakai & Morioka: Ahahaha!

Sakai: I really want to work together again, so from now on, I'll continue to do my best!

Morioka: Same here. This is my wish, but I want Taisei-kun to become a popular actor who can play a wide range of roles. I think the most important thing for an actor is honesty, and Taisei-kun is a really honest person who absorbs things like a sponge. If he continues like this, I think he'll become what I consider to be the ideal actor.

Sakai: Thank you very much!!

"Finally, please give a message to the fans."

Morioka: The Producers, Director, production team, acting department, and fans have nurtured this program and given us strength. Personally, I've learned alot from the opinions on SNS. I'd be happy if you could continue to support me even after this production is over.

Sakai: King-Ohger is a production that the staff spent a long time discussing and working on to create. Every day, I feel that the cast and staff are working together as one to tackle this work. There are only 5 episodes remaining to air, but there are still great developments waiting to happen, so please look forward to it!

Watanabe Aoto (Yanma) x Chiwata Yuhei (Shiokara)

"Please tell us your impressions of each other's character."

Watanabe: My impression of Shiokara, played by Chiwa-san (Chiwata), is that, "The kinder the person is, the scarier they are when they're angry."

Chiwata:…Hmm?

Watanabe: In episode 35, Yanma and Shiokara's past was depicted, but there's a pretty big gap between Shiokara's current character…In the past, Shiokara was the type of person who was quick to get his hands on something and had a sharp personality. However, he had a gentle gaze toward his own friends, and I think that's still true today. Until that episode, only Shiokara's friendly side was depicted, but I realized that when he gets angry, he's really scary! At the time, I was afraid of interacting with Chiwa-san…

Chiwata: You liar! (laughs).

Watanabe: (laughs). Still, I thought that gap was really cool.

Chiwata: I see. Of course, I’ve had the impression from the beginning that Yanma was cool, but since entering the new chapter, I've come to think that he can see what's going on around him better than anyone else. It's like he has foresight. Within Yanma, I think he has a well established logic that says, "This is what will happen if I do this," where he's able to easily figure out what choices he should make at that moment. Once again, I think he's a very smart person.

"Do you see any similarities between your characters and the person playing the role?"

Watanabe: Shiokara plays the role of the "pipe" that connects Yanma to the citizens of "N'Kosopa's Three Magi," being Minami Hokuto-kun's Akka, Okano Kaito-kun's Usuba, and Hayakawa Nagisa-san's Mayuta. Chiwa-san is also good at communicating with everyone, so I think they're similar. That impression hasn't changed since the beginning.

Chiwata: The similarities between Aoto and Yanma are that they both have cool visuals.

Watanabe: Well, they're both me (laughs).

Chiwata: I see (laughs). Aoto is very direct. I think his humanity is similar to Yanma's because he has a firm core and doesn't bend his beliefs. Aoto, he can sometimes show his cute side. I traveled to South Korea for the first time in Summer of 2023, and when I talked to Aoto before I went, he said, "Nice! Chiwa-san, I like this Korean brand." I thought, "Does that mean you want me to buy it for you?" (laughs).

Watanabe: Wahaha! At that time, I said, "I'll buy it when I have time," but while in Korea, Chiwa-san sent me a picture of a paper bag from that store. It was sent with the message "kneel down" (laughs).

Chiwata: Still, I think that kind of honesty is typical of Aoto.

Watanabe: I received some really nice clothes. It made me really happy!

"You're good friends even in your private lives. This time, you appeared in the costumes for the new chapter that started from episode 27. The new chapter is set two years after episode 26, but did you change the way you played your roles?"

Chiwata: At first, I was conscious of wanting to express the fact that two years had passed. However, there was no drastic change in my performance.

Watanabe: When I discussed Yanma's hair style for the new chapter with Director Kamihoriuchi Kazuya, he told me, "I definitely don't want to end the pompadour." So I decided to change my hair color, and went with a blonde pompadour. At first, I imagined that Yanma would be alittle more mature two years later, but when I decided to go with the blond pompadour, I realized that he was still in the process of developing. Immediately after entering the new chapter, when I noticed TomboOhger's actions, his movements were faster and more frequent, making for a very aggressive fighting style. Also, the jacket, which is Yanma's costume before the transformation, has had the length shortened and the sleeves can be slipped through more easily, making it easier to move around.

Chiwata: In the beginning, because you often had to hang the jacket over your shoulders, you used to complain that, "The action is too difficult…"

Watanabe: That's right. So, for me, I try to be more active in my performance, with the awareness that "Yanma's peak has yet to come!"

"As of the publication of this book, episode 45 will have aired, but compared to when you were first chosen for your roles, please tell us about the setting or development that surprised you the most regarding your role."

Watanabe: In episode 35, the Royal Sentai failed to take back N'kosopa from the enemy, Hilbil Leech of the Uchu Five Jester, and the episode ends in a very bad situation. However, the subtitle for the following week was "Hymeno's Matchmaking Strategy," and Yanma was happily going on a matchmaking trip (laughs).

Chiwata: Ahahaha! Even though N'kosopa was in ruins.

Watanabe: I was surprised when I read the script, but I also thought it was really cool. As a man, I thought it was cool that he could be so devoted to the girl in front of him, even if it means he humiliates himself. Besides, when something negative happens to me, it's not as if I can solve the problem by just staying inside and thinking about it. When I find myself in such a situation, I'm the type of person who thinks about it and tries to live my daily life properly, so I empathize with Yanma.

Chiwata: This is also connected to the story of Yanma's foresight that I mentioned earlier. There's no point in crying over the loss of our country, so we should just do what we can do now.

Watanabe: This is probably due to the fact that Yanma became a member of the Royal Sentai, and the area he's supposed to protect isn't just N'kosopa, but also the entirety of Chikyu. It's helpful that Yanma is good at choosing which one to prioritize.

Chiwata: When I read the script for episode 35, I was really impressed. When I started this production, Director Kamihoriuchi told me, "I want Shiokara to be an innocent, energetic and lovable character" and that's what I kept trying to achieve. And then, episode 35 let me do the exact opposite! I was very happy that we were able to show the background of our characters. Actually, Takamina-san (Takano Minato), who wrote the script, also talked to me about episode 35. This included Shiokara's pronoun.

"In the variety show "Sokkin Sentai Sokkinger," which is distributed through TTFC, Chiwata-san said, "When the Director asked me to distort my character, Shiokara's pronoun was changed to Oira."

Chiwata: Yes. At first, in the script, Shiokara's pronoun was "Ore". However, in the opening scene of the first episode, I consulted Director Kamihoriuchi and said, "I want to change the pronoun," and it became "Oira." However, since it was an on set exchange, most of you didn't know about it, and it remained "Ore" in the script.

Watanabe: That's right.

Chiwata: Later, when Takamina-san came to the set, I apologized and said, "I'm sorry for changing the pronoun," and he said, "Don't worry. We'll change it to Oira in the next script." However, in episode 35, there was a mixture of "Oira" and "Ore," and I was told that, "This is intentional, so please act according to the script." I also felt it was rewarding to play the role of Shiokara because I was able to show the gap between Shiokara's current character and his past as a delinquent.

"Please tell us about any particular scenes between Yanma and Shiokara that moved you."

Watanabe: It has to be episode 35.

Chiwata: Yeah, that's mine too.

Watanabe: What Hilbil was targeting was the "I'm on top computer," which controls all of N'kosopa's systems, and is normally operated by Yanma. Hilbil brainwashed the people of N'kosopa by whispering to them to destroy the computer, and Shiokara accidentally took out his earplugs and was brainwashed, but Shiokara desperately fought against it. Seeing Shiokara's desperate resistance, Yanma decides to destroy the computer himself in order to break Shiokara and the others brainwashing…However, I think this is a scene where he becomes much more aware of his role as a king, that he's living together with his people, including Shiokara.

Chiwata: I've been curious about it for a long time. In that episode, Yanma was forced to choose between the country and Shiokara, right? Did Yanma choose Shiokara right away, or did he think about it until the last minute?

Watanabe: Right…To be honest, I thought that Yanma in that scene was naive. The Yanma I know could've sacrificed Shiokara, and I don't think he would've chosen Shiokara from the beginning. After hearing Shiokara's feelings about N'kosopa, I think he destroyed the computer thinking that he was responsible for everything. This is just my guess though.

"When Shiokara woke up, he asked him what had happened and, charmed by Yanma's manly spirit, decided to follow him for the rest of his life."

Chiwata: In Shiokara's mind, there was no choice but to follow Yanma. That's why Shiokara doesn't go against what Yanma says, but at the same time, Shiokara also has a desire to pull Yanma along. That's why when Yanma was brainwashed by Hilbil in episode 44, I really wish Shiokara had been there for him.

"Now then, please tell us what you think makes the combination of Yanma and Shiokara unbeatable compared to the other countries kings and retainers."

Watanabe: Compared to the other countries, I think the amount of time we spend together is second to none. Also, Shiokara knows what Yanma was like when he wasn't king.

Chiwata: That's true. I sometimes think about the age of the characters. I wonder, who's older, Yanma or Shiokara?

Watanabe: It's not clear.

Chiwata: I've never really asked Takamina-san, but I feel like Yanma and Shiokara are closer in age than the other pairs, I also think they give off a stronger feeling of siblings than the other pairs.

"Are there any scenes you'd like to play as N'kosopa's king and retainer?"

Watanabe: The past was depicted in episode 35, right? I'm curious about the story of how Yanma became king after Shiokara and the Three Magi became Yanma's friends.

Chiwata: I'd like to see that! Like how N'kosopa was founded.

Watanabe: There needs to be an "Episode Zero"!

Chiwata: Because, how is it possible that a city so devastated became a country of cutting edge technology in just a few years?

Watanabe: Still, until Yanma became king, he couldn't equip the TomboOhger royal armor…

Chiwata: Wouldn't it be better to depict Yanma taking the throne and arming himself with the TomboOhger royal armor for the first time in the ending?

Watanabe: Oooh! That sounds good.

"Speaking of, if Shiokara were to be armed with royal armor, what kind of warrior would he be?"

Chiwata: Would the motif be based on the Japanese white tailed skimmer (shiokaratonbo), which is also the origin of his name? When Shiokara became a pilot of God King-Ohger in episode 25, he was piloting a pill bug (rolling hammer), so there's also a pill bug motif. For the color, something closer to blue would be good…maybe a light blue?

Watanabe: Cute! (laughs).

Chiwata: But, if the retainers were to arm themselves with royal armor, I think the most exciting thing would be for them to become weapons and have the kings use them. For example, Shiokara could become a gun, and when Yanma uses it, it becomes even stronger.

Watanabe: Sounds interesting!

"Since we have this opportunity, would you be willing to ask each other questions?"

Watanabe: King-Ohger will continue to host shows and other events even after the TV series wraps up, but is there anything you'd like to try?

Chiwata: I want to go around the country on the Final Live Tour and meet the fans of our work. Also, it'd be nice to have character songs for the kings with their retainers of each country.

Watanabe: That's good. Staff, please hear us out!

Chiwata: Well, my question to Aoto is…in the future, what kind of actor do you want to be?

Watanabe: Suddenly it's a serious topic (laughs).

Chiwata: Sometimes we talk about acting, and I think Aoto is really good at performing, so I wonder, what kind of actor do you envision yourself becoming?

Watanabe: I want to be in productions that inspire the viewer. For example, after seeing a work that focuses on family, I think to myself, "I should value my family," or "Maybe I should call my family." I want to appear in works that make people feel happy or take positive action after watching them.

Chiwata: I see. In terms of entertainment, what about action?

Watanabe: I admire it!

Chiwata: You also box, don't you?

Watanabe: Yes. I'll continue to work hard to achieve my goals!

"Finally, please give a message to the fans."

Chiwata: I often receive compliments from various people in the entertainment industry, saying, "King-Ohger is amazing." This is thanks to all the fans who have supported and encouraged us so far. We will never forget our gratitude, and will do our best to make this a work that'll be enjoyed to the very end!

Watanabe: This production also involved alot of extras. In that respect, I feel that this work was created together with the viewers, and I'm grateful for it. There are only a few episodes left, so please follow us until the end!

Murakami Erica (Hymeno) x Yoshimitsu Hiroto (Sebastian)

"This time, it's a character book featuring the kings and their retainers, so we'd like to hear from both of you."

Yoshimitsu: Thank you for having me. (to Murakami) Ah, I've got some candy.

Murakami: Wow, I'll have some if I'm tired of talking. This is the kind of thing about Yoshimitsu-san that's just like Sebas himself. He once gave me a souvenir from when he went to the countryside, and his thoughtfulness is really wonderful.

Yoshimitsu: I have to try to make a good impression. There are alot of young people on set.

Murakami: There you go again with that~ (laughs).

Yoshimitsu: The cast members who play the kings are all around the same age as my children, so I can't help but find them cute. They all have good personalities. The actors who play the retainers also have good personalities, but they all have their own quirks. I guess you could say they're unique.

Murakami: Even the kings are unique (laughs).

Yoshimitsu: The six of them have their own individualities and are considerate. Hyme (Murakami), in particular is flawless. She's extremely positive.

Murakami: That's not true~

Yoshimitsu: You never give up. In the beginning, even though Kamihori-san was very strict with us, she would say, "This gives me a good foundation for the performance I'll do tomorrow." That's amazing, isn't it?

Murakami: Fufufu. I can ask Yoshimitsu-san various things, and he teaches me. When we're filming together and I say, "I don't understand this part…" he immediately makes a suggestion saying, "Why don't you try it this way?" I like our relationship, and I think that kind of thing is very similar to Sebas.

Yoshimitsu: I don't know if my suggestions are right or not.

Murakami: I'm always learning, and it's the kind of stuff that I actually use! (laughs).

"Alot of things were revealed about Sebastian in episode 36, but what kind of explanation did Yoshimitsu-san receive about Sebastian in the beginning?"

Yoshimitsu: Hymeno doesn't usually carry the OhgerCalibur, so I was told to always be there carrying the sword tray. Even if I didn't have any lines, I would come out with the sword tray. I thought to myself, "I don't have to memorize lines, lucky~" (laughs), but thought about various ways of holding the sword tray. For example, after handing over the sword to her, I would quickly pull the tray back. Well, around the middle of the show, I became more resourceful in the way I brought out the sword, and didn't hold the tray as much.

Murakami: Lately, there've been alot of instances where Hymeno is suddenly holding the sword. As for my own narrative, the sword is supposed to come out from the ribbon on her back.

Yoshimitsu: I see. By the way, when playing Sebastian, I often pay special attention to how I stand while holding the sword tray. They changed it halfway through, but the first sword tray was so heavy, that it was difficult for me to stand holding it. However, if my back is bent, it doesn't look like Sebastian, so I was very conscious of taking a step back with my right leg, keeping my back straight, and standing straight like a dancer.

Murakami: Regarding Sebas's performance, when Yoshimitsu-san and I were at the first script reading, Kamihori-san suggested, "Give me one distraught gesture. For example, touching your mustache." I remember when Sebas's iconic pose was born.

Yoshimitsu: Hymeno asks Sebas to do some pretty reckless things, doesn't she? Saying things like, "Create a flower garden overnight." Each time, Sebas would think, "Hmmm, how troublesome." As a gesture for such occasions, he would start touching his mustache. I also consulted with Kamihori-san as we put together the performance.

"Please tell us about your impressions of the character the other is playing."

Yoshimitsu: She's cute. However, I can't help but view her as my co star, not as her character.

Murakami: I see! (laughs). I don't usually talk to people like this directly, so I'm kind of happy!

Yoshimitsu: I look at you (Murakami) from a father's perspective, but if you were my real daughter, I wouldn't marry you off! And yet, I'd also worry that you wouldn't get married…She's so cute and has such a nice personality, that I think it'd be a big shock if someone saw something they didn't like about her.

Murakami: You definitely show your dislikes on a regular basis (laughs).

Yoshimitsu: Really?

Murakami: Things like acting recklessly…

Yoshimitsu: As your character, yes. But, there really isn't anything I dislike about Murakami-san herself. Even after filming for King-Ohger ends, if you or any of the other kids who play the role of kings ever have any problems, you can come to me for advice. Invite me out with, "Let's grab a drink," that's okay too.

Murakami: Thank you very much! Going beyond the relationship between Sebas and Hymeno's characters, I'm glad that you care about me too.

"Murakami-san, how do you feel about the character Sebastian?"

Murakami: I feel a sense of security. When Sebastian appears, I feel like Ishabana is able to maintain peace, and just having him by her side calms Hymeno down. Even in episode 14, when Hymeno mistakenly thinks that Jeramie Brasieri is the enemy of her parents, Sebas tries to calm Hymeno down by gently suggesting some tea.

Yoshimitsu: Hymeno responded with, "I don't need it," and Sebas made a sad face. I feel like that exchange went well.

Murakami: Yoshimitsu-san took the lead, so I felt comfortable playing the role.

Yoshimitsu: Now, it's the opposite. Murakami-san has grown so much in one year. At first, she would ask me, "Is it okay to do this?" and I would reply, "Do whatever you like," however, the other day I asked, "Is it okay to do this here?" and she replied, "Do whatever you like."

Murakami: (laughs). At that time, I was putting all my effort into my lines.

Yoshimitsu: That said, I've become able to respond to improved movements with improved lines, so those kind of interactions have become natural.

Murakami: I no longer get anxious.

Yoshimitsu: I'm getting better at it.

Murakami: In the beginning, I'd often think, "What'll happen if I do this, or if it doesn't work out, will I cause trouble for everyone…?"

Yoshimitsu: She's a very considerate person, isn't she? When the extras were standing on set, she said, "Since everyone is standing, I'll stand too."

Murakami: During filming, you have to take care of yourself, but the extras hesitated to sit down and stay hydrated. That's why I wondered what I could do.

Yoshimitsu: As for the Ishabana scenes, Murakami-san is the leader, so if the leader acts like that, the extras will feel more comfortable filming.

Murakami: I was also anxious about putting a burden on so many people, but I started to think, if something were to happen, as long as Yoshimitsu-san was there, everything would be okay!

Yoshimitsu: Lately, I've been thinking about becoming a candidate for Murakami-san's manager. The pay will be higher though.

Murakami: (laughs). I'm grateful that you'd choose me, even if I cause you trouble.

Yoshimitsu: You can cause as much trouble as you want. Just try doing a performance that you like! If they say, "That's annoying, pass," you can just try again.

Murakami: I'm gradually learning to rely on those around me, but if I rely on them too much, I won't be able to rely on myself. From now on, I'm going to have other jobs in this field.

Yoshimitsu: Right. Sebas won't always be by your side.

Murakami: I'd feel relieved if you came to my side like you usually do…

Yoshimitsu: You don't really intend to make me your exclusive manager, do you? (laughs).

"Were there any particular scenes between Hymeno and Sebastian that left an impression on you?"

Murakami: At the end of episode 36, when Hymeno asks Sebas, "Do you ever wish you could go back to being Romane Dearborn?" He answered, "Only when I hide my true face could I live my life the way I wanted to. Now, Sebastian the butler is who I am." I was impressed by that scene.

Yoshimitsu: You know, it didn't feel like I was saying the lines. It just came from my heart. Before we started filming, I was thinking alot about whether it would be better to do a performance based more on Romane Dearborn, but since I've always played Sebastian, it was an easy decision.

Murakami: Upon hearing that, Hymeno smiled and said, "Thank you." Both Hymeno and I were very happy.

Yoshimitsu: In that episode, there's a scene where the special makeup was applied for the first time by the waterside, and the script said "his eyes tear up." But when I was looking at Hyme, even if I didn't consciously try to cry, I just thought, "This kid, she's doing her best…" and I was already starting to tear up from the rehearsal (laughs).

Murakami: I didn't know that (laughs). I also like that waterside scene. As Hymeno puts on his glasses, she says, "Having compassion for others. That's the most beautiful thing you have, and the only thing I want."

Yoshimitsu: It was a performance that tugged at my heartstrings, or rather, it tickled my heart.

Murakami: It's good that Yoshimitsu-san can lift me up on this set, but that won't happen from now on. I think doing a single person performance…it worries me.

Yoshimitsu: Don't worry. You're fully qualified. It's not for me to say though (laughs).

"During the matchmaking episode, there were alot of highlights from both of your performances. The expressions on Hymeno's face when she was being impersonated by Kamejim Unka of the Uchu Five Jesters were also wonderful."

Yoshimitsu: Takano Minato-san, the screenwriter, is relentless. I thought, "How can he make us do such unpleasant things?!" The body swap scenes in episode 28 were also amazing.

Murakami: There are alot of lines, and it's not Jeramie, but it's a scenario that makes you read between the lines.

"If there's a spin off in the future, please tell us if there's any situations you'd like to perform."

Murakami: Hymeno tries to wake up in the morning, but can't, and when Sebas comes to her room and makes her morning tea, she feels relieved…I wanted to film a scene like that. Things like afternoon tea are usually elegant scenes, aren't they? I'd like to perform a tea scene that isn't like that.

Yoshimitsu: I was thinking of doing a backflip. I thought that if I, a 63 year old, did a backflip, I'd be able to convey Sebastian's true youthfulness. However, I don't want to injure myself and inconvenience everyone, and I haven't practiced in awhile, so I decided to stop.

Murakami: I definitely want to see an agile Sebastian.

Yoshimitsu: It'll be fun to do someday…but, will there ever be a "someday"?

Murakami: I don't know~ you might be doing backflips in 10 years.

Yoshimitsu: No, no, you might be a big actress 10 years from now, but this old man will have had enough…

Murakami: Fufufu, I'm looking forward to it.

"Could you please ask any questions you'd like to hear from each other?"

Yoshimitsu: I'd like to be invited to Hyme's wedding, but do you plan on getting married?

Murakami: I have a desire to start a family, so I'm sure I will someday…

Yoshimitsu: If you want to have a ceremony, please reach out to me. I'll provide a proper celebration.

Murakami: You got it! Well, I'd like to ask you a question as well. Yoshimitsu-san is very knowledgeable and knows many things regardless of the subject, why is that?

Yoshimitsu: I've lived a long life. Also, I like to talk, so I talk to alot of people and learn alot from them. Even if I don't know everything in depth, if I know even alittle bit, I can say, "I heard something like that back then," and use it as a basis for my performance. Also, sometimes I go out to eat and treat myself to traditional sushi (not conveyor belt). If I lived a normal life, you have no idea how nervous I'd feel going into a prestigious restaurant. I've never been in first class on an airplane, but I've heard that all the chairs are electric.

Murakami: That's cool. You've got a "let's give it a try" spirit.

Yoshimitsu: Yes, I have to try everything. If I were to play a role where I had to move to a first class seat, I'd be nervous if I had no experience, but if I had experience, I'd be able to do it easily and look like I'm used to it, you know? That's why it's good to have experience in everything.

Murakami: It's a great source of artistic talent. I guess it's all connected to acting.

"Finally, please give a message to the fans,"

Murakami: We've been walking together with the fans of Ohsama Sentai King-Ohger, and I hope we can enjoy it together until the end. We'll be facing off against a powerful enemy, The Uchu King, but one of the strengths of Super Sentai is our unity. Everyone will work together and do their best!

Yoshimitsu: A year goes by so fast. It's sad. As Hyme just said, there's a powerful enemy standing in our way, so the kings, their retainers, and their people won't be able to win unless everyone is united. In episode 25, we were able to combine the 20 person God King-Ohger, but it has to be even better than that, so I feel like it's going to be something amazing. I didn't know much about the Super Sentai series, but I was moved by the fact that it touches so many people. It was a great experience, and I met some great friends. I never thought I'd meet such young and pure people at my age. It's truly been a treasured year for me.

Murakami: I hope you look forward to it. I don't think the Royal Sentai have ever failed our expectations.

Yoshimitsu: In the last spurt, I'll run until my heart stops.

Murakami: Don't let it stop! (laughs).

Hirakawa Yuzuki (Rita) x Hasegawa Kasumi (Morphonia)

"First, please introduce the character the other plays."

Hasegawa: Yuzuchin (Hirakawa) plays Rita Kaniska, the king of Gokkan. In the new chapter starting from episode 27, two years have passed, and their hair and the length of the jacket they wear have become shorter, and their slender legs look much better now. They're super cool!

Hirakawa: Is it just about looks? (laughs).

Hasegawa: I'll also talk about what's within (laughs). At a glance, because they're quiet, they may seem like a scary person, but at heart they're very kind, and they love the character Moffun that appears in the animated series "Together with Moffun." Although they're abit clumsy when it comes to socializing, because they're so bound by the principle of "fairness and equality," they're a king overflowing with love.

Hirakawa: Kasumin (Hasegawa) plays the role of Morphonia, Rita's retainer. Basically, work is tedious for her, but she doesn't slack off, and even if she complains, she gets the job done right. For Rita, she's not only their retainer, but also their emotional support. Rita doesn't say this directly, but her existence is one of a kind.

"Please tell us why you think the combination of Rita and Morphonia is unbeatable compared to the king and retainer combinations of the other countries."

Hasegawa: I think it's the fact that they're not bound by the "ruler and ruled" relationship present between a king and retainer.

Hirakawa: That's right. It feels like they're independent from each other. All the retainers from the other countries seem to be serving their king.

Hasegawa: If you think about it, compared to the other kings, Morphonia just calls them "Rita" (laughs).

Hirakawa: Yeah. Rather than "king and retainer" present in the other countries, what's different is that they interact with each other as individuals. Also, they can communicate their feelings without words.

Hasegawa: Rita doesn't say much. In episode 45, the story of Rita and Morphonia was depicted, and it feels like they've always been together since childhood. I think that because of that experience, they're able to understand each other so well.

Hirakawa: I don't know if it's a harmonizing thing, but they give off a strong feeling of being a duo that knows what they want to say without having to say it out loud.

Hasegawa: I think the attitude for the retainers of the other countries is, "I'll follow!" whereas with Morphonia, it feels like she's trying to walk together.

Hirakawa: That's true. It's not like Rita's in control of everything, and Morphonia isn't the type of person who needs to be shown the path to walk. The Gokkan duo may be the only ones walking side by side.

Hasegawa: Right. She lets Rita walk in front of her as much as possible, but when she want to stand next to them, she just stand next to them without hesitation.

Hirakawa: I guess the key point is whether it's in public or not. When attending a meeting in Shugoddam for example, I imagine that Morphonia is behind them.

Hasegawa: Morphonia is someone who understands TPO. (*being aware of what is/isn't appropriate)

"At the time of this books publication, episode 45 will have aired, and every character has been revealed. Apparently, Rita's parents are still alive and they've met up."

Hirakawa: I never really thought about Rita's parents until it was revealed in episode 38. Even if the setting was that they were dead, it wouldn't change my performance plan as Rita. Rita separates their private life from their professional life on and off, and if they became the presiding judge because they were separated from their parents, that would mean bringing their personal feelings into their work, so I didn't think such a scenario was likely to happen. That's why, when I read the script for episode 38, I just thought, "Ah, they have parents."

Hasegawa: Still, I can't imagine Rita talking to their parents.

Hirakawa: I think it's the same with my own family. Members of my family also take part in legal practices, so I come from a strict family…is what it seemed like.

Hasegawa: Was curfew at 4 p.m. or something? (laughs).

Hirakawa: I don't think that was quite it (laughs). The image of Rita I had in my mind was that of an only child, whose childhood friends were books and dictionaries…or so I felt. In episode 45, Morphonia's past was revealed.

Hasegawa: She's a child born between two criminals. I thought, "I knew it," so even after learning about it, I didn't change my performance plan.

"Please tell us about any memorable scenes between Rita and Morphonia. In the interview for, The Bonds Connected by Moffun and Racules?!, released in November 2023, you mentioned episodes 10 and 38, but has it increased since then?"

Hirakawa: I still think it's episode 38.

Hasegawa: The idol episode was memorable. Rita showed off their glittering idol look, and they cheerfully responded to Minongan Moth of the Uchu Five Jesters with, "Yes~!" We saw a different side of Rita than usual.

Hirakawa: Those scenes were nice, but the last one was good. Gokkan, where it snows throughout the entire year, was depicted with clear weather.

Hasegawa: That's right. That one was good.

Hirakawa: Actually, it seems like that last scene was almost cut.

Hasegawa: Eh?!

Hirakawa: Takamina-san mentioned it on SNS, but during a meeting discussing the scenario, Takamina-san was desperately defending it, saying, "It's absolutely necessary! Please keep it!"

Hasegawa: I see. I'm glad we got it~. In the end, we still improvised the performance.

Hirakawa: The final back shot, where they're walking together under the clear sky, was all improvised.

Hasegawa: After filming finished, I was unusually satisfied.

Hirakawa: The relationship between them also became closer.

Hasegawa: Well, Morphonia didn't understand Rita was doing undercover work, she completely misunderstood them (laughs).

"After watching the actual broadcast, what did you think?"

Hirakawa: I was just relieved. Rita has many "closed" parts, both physically and in terms of their character, so until it aired, I was nervous, wondering what kind of reaction we'd get if they opened up about it. Would be okay? Still, Rita's a character who will have to break down those walls someday, and after episode 38, I felt that their possibilities had expanded. And as expected, I watched the episode air with excitement, wondering if the dancing and singing scenes turned out well. When we were filming, all I could do was put on my best performance, so I was concerned about how the scenes would turn out. How about Kasumin?

Hasegawa: I was really looking forward to the broadcast.

Hirakawa: That's what we kept saying before it aired. We'd say, "It's almost time for the idol episode!"

Hasegawa: I couldn't wait to watch it! I was looking forward to seeing Rita in action, but I was also looking forward to seeing how funny it'd look when Morphonia and the kings try to reason with Rita and find out why they become an idol.

Hirakawa: To put it simply, it was really annoying (laughs). Even more so, everyone's performance was so convincing….

Hasegawa: Everyone was annoying. But that was our role.

Hirakawa: Even when we were filming, I was acting thinking, "You're doing something so extra," but the broadcast was filled with that atmosphere (laughs). Like the look on Morphonia's face when she was appealing to Rita with, "I'm the only one who'll always be with you!" (laughs).

Hasegawa: I also thought I looked too desperate myself, which was really funny! (laughs). I had a fun day on the day of the broadcast. Thank you.

"Was there ever a turning point in your performance plans?"

Hasegawa: Our characters changed in episodes that would trigger a change. Specifically, episode 10, 25, 38, and 45. But, I didn't consciously try to change it.

Hirakawa: When filming an episode where the characters get closer emotionally, naturally, things change. The fact that the actors have gotten to know each other over the course of a year of filming also has an effect. This is a good thing, as it's a production that'll broadcast for a year.

"We think that the distance between them has become closer, and their understanding of each other has changed, but how do Rita and Morphonia view each other now?"

Hasegawa: Aren't they partners?

Hirakawa: That's right. I think it's a position that only Morphonia can hold.

"She stays neutral next to Rita, so she's a comfortable presence for Rita."

Hasegawa: Even though they've always been together, they don't seem to interfere with each other. They have just the right amount of distance and trust.

Hirakawa: Everyone has their own worldview and purpose, so they don't go into it any more than necessary. But, they can't replace each other.

Hasegawa: To begin with, if Rita wasn't the king, Morphonia would've run away. She didn't originally want to work as a retainer.

Hirakawa: Rita's the king, so I guess she does it even though it's an intense job. She must've fallen in love with Rita's personality.

Hasegawa: I think so. I think they can be together because she respects them as a person.

Hirakawa: I’m just imagining it, but when first meeting Morphonia, do you think the impression of her was, "What an interesting person"?

Hasegawa: She's changed gradually, and now you'll think, "This person is amazing, she should be king after all."

Hirakawa: Even though she started working as a retainer with that feeling, it's amazing how she's actually helping Rita. Morphonia is excellent!

Hasegawa: She really is!

"If you study seriously, getting a score of 100 points isn't a dream, but we also have the image of her being satisfied with scoring 90 points. Rita on the other hand is always scoring 100 points."

Hasegawa: This is just me imagining, but even though she complains, I think Morphonia is secretly studying behind the scenes. That's why I think she'd score 99 points.

Hirakawa: She can't quite reach it.

Hasegawa: Rita's perfect, but Morphonia isn't. Although she's gotten the hang of things and is able to do her job, she doesn't think she's fit to be a king.

Hirakawa: Is it a mental thing?

Hasegawa: Rather, and I'm not talking about Rita's family from earlier, but Rita can make fair judgments about family matters when it comes to work, but it seems that Morphonia can't do that. I think she'd rather try her best not to judge.

Hirakawa: I can imagine that.

Hasegawa: There's a difference, and I think that's why Rita is the presiding judge.

"In episode 25, Morphonia also participated in battle as a pilot for God King-Ohger, but if she were to arm herself with royal armor, what kind of warrior would you want her to be?"

Hasegawa: If the motif were based on the morpho butterfly, which is the origin of her name (morufochou), the color would be blue…

Hirakawa: You'd become a citizen of N'kosopa!

Hasegawa: I think it'd be good if the characteristics of Gokkan's people were to show.

"We understand that the two of you have become closer over the past year, and we'd like to hear about what you've been doing in your private time."

Hasegawa: I want Yuzuchin to teach me how to make delicious coffee.

Hirakawa: Of course! When it comes to coffee, I can be abit talkative. I'm always going on and on.

Hasegawa: Alright! I want to learn how to make hand drip coffee.

Hirakawa: In that case, I'll have to train you at my house.

"Hirakawa-san, are you particular about coffee?"

Hirakawa: I love it, and am very particular about it. The beans, the equipment, and even the way it's poured.

Hasegawa: The other day, I happened to have a cup of coffee that tasted so good, that I was impressed by how different the same drink can be. Then, I found out that someone who was as immersed in the coffee obsession was so close to me!

Hirakawa: I'm thinking of becoming a certified Coffee Meister, would you like to study with me? (*certification by the Japan Specialty Coffee Association)

Hasegawa: I do, I do!

"Previously, when the two of you visited the King-Ohger booth at the Tokyo Toy Show 2023 event, it seems that nobody noticed you, but do you have any stories of being called out to on the street?"

Hirakawa: I do. When I went to see a stage play by a senior from my agency, one of the audience members noticed me. However, I didn't notice their voice, and a staff member told me about it as I was leaving.

Hasegawa: There's a rumor that I didn't realize that I'd been noticed before. When I went to see a stage play, someone said to me, "Aren't you a Sokkinger?!" and I thought it was a novel comment. I was at a loss for words, and I'm sorry for not giving a proper answer. I want to apologize to the person who approached me at that time.

Hirakawa: It's funny that you're apologizing here (laughs). I may not be able to provide much service when people call out to me in public, but it makes me happy to know that people are watching our work.

"Please give a message to the fans."

Hasegawa: Are you enjoying Ohsama Sentai King-Ohger? I hope you enjoy watching it until its conclusion, because there's going to be an unexpected twist at the end.

Hirakawa: It'll be over soon, but I think you can feel the growth and change both as our characters and as individuals. I think the kings will have the opportunity to meet fans directly at the hero show at Theater G Rosso, but first, I hope that you'll join us to see how the TV series will end. And even after it ends, I hope that this will be a show that is loved for a long, long time.

Kaku So (Kaguragi) x Kanzaki Hajime (Kuroda's actor)

"First, could you please introduce the character the other is playing?"

Kaku: There are many kuroko serving the Toufu lord, Kaguragi Dybowski, who I play. Among them, Kuroda is a special person who's close to Kaguragi. The name Kuroda was revealed midway through, but episode 37 depicts that he was a good friend of Kaguragi even before he became lord. Although he can be a bit clumsy at times, his movements are light. This is some behind the scenes info, but sometimes he uses a trampoline.

Kanzaki: Toufu's lord Kaguragi, who Kuroda serves, has unshakable feelings, but he doesn't show them to those around him. It's unknown if Kaguragi revealed to Kuroda the exchange he had with the previous lord, Iroki, 17 years ago, which was depicted in episode 37. My guess is that he hasn't revealed it…but, since they've been together for a long time, I think he trusts him.

Kaku: That means it's a strong relationship of trust, because even though he doesn't reveal everything, he still follows him. I think he wanted to have the person he trusted the most by his side, so when Kaguragi became lord, he made Kuroda his retainer. However, he wouldn't be able to become the castle's kuroko if he was incompetent in various aspects, so Kuroda must've worked really hard to train and become strong…is what I think.

"Until the past story of episode 37 was depicted, how did you imagine the two of them would open up to each other?"

Kaku: In the beginning, Kaguragi always called him "Kuroda-san," but in episode 10, he calls him "Kuroda." I was talking with Kanzaki-san about the fact that they probably didn't have a master and servant relationship to begin with. I imagined various things, like maybe Kuroda was older than Kaguragi, and that he had taken care of him like a butler since he was a small child.

Kanzaki: Since that part of the story hadn't been depicted, we acted without making a clear decision. However, in the past, Kuroda dressed as a farmer and was seen calling out to Kaguragi in a rough tone, so I think Kuroda is alittle older than him.

"In the early days, Kuroda didn't have any lines, which made his character more imaginative."

Kanzaki: I was thinking he wouldn't talk until the very end (laughs). Compared to the retainers from the other countries, I get the impression that Kuroda takes a step back and looks at his surroundings, which is similar to myself. I often participate in tokusatsu productions as a Suit Actor, but in King-Ohger, I'm in a position between the action department and the actors, so when I see the young cast members talking so lively, I take a step back and think, "How cute" (laughs). Kaku-san is also older than the other regulars who play the kings, but he has alot of cute moments and sometimes acts alittle silly inbetween performances (laughs).

Kaku: That's true (laughs).

Kanzaki: As a member of the action department, I continue to assist the cast members on set even after they've finished their performance, and conversely, I stay on after the action department's performance is over if Kuroda has a scene. That way, I get to see the cast and crew at work, so it's a very fulfilling time for me. Although it's through the kuroko mask, whenever I see Kaku-san's acting up close, I always feel that Kaku-san's performance as Kaguragi Dybowski makes the scene even more intense.

Kaku: That makes me happy (laughs).

"What's the charm of Kaguragi and Kuroda that makes them unbeatable compared to the king and retainer combinations of the other countries?"

Kaku: I don't know what they're going to do. Just the scenes where Kaguragi and Kuroda have a secret conversation and split up is enough to make you feel like they're up to something again, and I think it's exciting.

Kanzaki: I also think that being physically fit is one of their strengths.

Kaku: Definitely, For example, if the kings were absent and their retainers fought each other…then Kuroda might be the strongest. Another key point is that they captivate you with their gorgeous movements.

"In episode 26, when Toufu's crops were being harvested by Ishabana's Shugod, and the people were suffering from heatstrokes, it was interesting to see Kuroda rush in and roll in front of Kaguragi, who contained Hymeno's soul."

Kanzaki: Kamihori-san said, "Please do it. You'll do it, right?"

Kaku: You make an impressive appearance in a way that the rest of the retainers don't.

Kanzaki: Since I can't show facial expressions, I tend to rely on movement. When performing the actions of a monster, even the slightest breathing has to be expressed in a loud voice for it to be conveyed, but since Kuroda's costume is normal, I've made adjustments so that it doesn't come off as over the top.

Kaku: Also, Kuroda has a nice voice!

Kanzaki: Toriumi Kosuke-san's voice is wonderful!

"We'd like to ask you to look back on any memorable scenes between Kaguragi and Kuroda."

Kanzaki: In episode 28, the body swap episode, there's a scene in which Kaguragi, who had Hymeno's heart, makes medicine for the people who have collapsed from heatstroke, and Kamihori-san gave him various orders.

Kaku: When I first read the script, I thought it was going to be a more rushed approach to nursing. However, the Director seemed to want it to feel more calm. I struggled with it alittle.

Kanzaki: It was difficult to find the "pause" to move and give medicine to a sleeping person. Also, in the movie (Adventure Heaven, released in Summer 2023), the scene where Kuroda interrupts Kaguragi and Iroki when they're facing each other is very memorable. I used a trampoline to do some moves that I had little experience with, but the moment it was given the OK, Kaku-san said, "You did it! That was cool!" How kind of my lord…is what I thought.

Kaku: It was really cool, so I definitely want you all to pay attention to that scene. In episode 10, when Kuroda bows, Kaguragi says, "Kuroda, what are you…?," calling him that for the first time. From that scene on, Kuroda became a character that Kaguragi felt closer to, and the image I had of them began to come forward. Until then, I could only vaguely imagine the extent of their relationship, but after that episode, I was able to imagine it clearly.

"Two years passed between episodes 26 and 27, and each character grew two years older, but was there anything you changed about your performance?"

Kanzaki: Kaguragi was absent during the beginning of episode 27, and I was confused when the Director told me, "Kuroda will wear Kaguragi's haori and take his place as lord." I thought Kuroda couldn't wear it because of his character…I told Director Kamihori the same thing, but he encouraged me by saying, "Everyone so excited, saying, Kuroda's the only one who can take Kaguragi's place!" So, I put my mind into it and acted it out. However, the performance itself didn't change.

Kaku: I haven't changed anything since the two years passed, but in the beginning, I was exploring the character of Kaguragi as I played him. At the time, I thought I was doing my best not to let my doubts show, but looking back on it now, I often reflect thinking, "I should've done things in this direction more, huh?" In the beginning, I could only get a vague idea of Kaguragi's personality, but as filming continued, as it became clear how he outwits people and what kind of soul he had, my perception of him changed. If I had my way, I'd like to reshoot from episode 1 in his current state! If I had atleast been given the scripts up to episode 20 before we started filming, I think my performance plan would've been quite different.

Kanzaki: For example, in episode 4, there's the scene in which Kaguragi is armed with the royal armor for the first time in the series, and his face looks completely different now than it did then, as he looks much more sturdy. Like all the actors playing the kings, I thought it was amazing. Of course we in the action department work hard, but to see young actors grow by playing the same character in front of the cameras for a year is something that's rarely seen in other productions, and I think this is the real thrill of being involved with Super Sentai and Kamen Rider, both of which air for a whole year.

Kaku: It's true that it's rare to have the opportunity to play the same role for a whole year.

"Now then, could you tell us what you like about each other's performance?"

Kanzaki: Kaku-san gives off a profound feeling, in terms of power, I like the gap between slow and fast. Also, as I mentioned earlier, despite being an older member of the cast, I find him cute. And then, I don't think there are many people who'd look good in Kaguragi's costume, hair and makeup, so I think it's amazing that Kaku-san has made it his own.

Kaku: Thank you very much. Kanzaki-san is always thinking of various gestures for the shoot, and his large reactions, which easily convey his emotions to the viewer, are interesting and appealing in a way that the other retainers don't have. Then, including Toriumi-san's voice, I think it's a luxury. The character of Kuroda was created by combining the work of action and voice professionals, and every action and voice performance makes it more interesting.

"As of the publication of this book, episode 45 will have aired, but are there any scenes you'd like to perform in a spin off?"

Kaku: I'd be good if there was a depiction proving Kuroda's strength. Kanzaki-san is the one doing the movements, and I believe that Kuroda is strong, but there aren't many depictions that establish that. Also, a scene where the two of them do some farm work would be nice (laughs).

Kanzaki: Everyday scenes are nice.

"You say you want to see a strong Kuroda, but if a Kuroda were to fight armed with the royal armor, what kind of warrior would you want him to be?"

Kanzaki: The people of Toufu have names with a bee motif, right? Some viewers thought that Kuroda may have been derived from the name of a bee with "kuro" in it. Kaguragi's younger sister Suzume Dybowski is from the vespinae wasp (suzumebachi), and Iroki is from the Japanese yellow hornet (kiirosuzumebachi), so he's got to be a bee warrior. Kaku-san tells me that Kuroda seems strong, but I also like the idea of a cute worker bee with a honey bee motif (laughs).

Kaku: That sounds good. There are alot of kuroko in the castle, so they fight in groups. Let's have Kuroda take on the role of the leader.

"Could you please take this opportunity to ask each other some questions?"

Kanzaki: To begin with, Kaku-san, why did you enter this industry?

Kaku: I was originally interested in theater. Because my parents were athletes, I devoted myself to playing baseball and rugby, but I had to give up these sports due to an injury. However, since I was still young and full of energy, I decided to pursue a career in theater.

Kanzaki: I didn't know that. Even so, you have a really good physique. How tall are you?

Kaku: I'm 185 cm (6'1"). Fujita Yohei-san, a Suit Actor for King-Ohger, is also tall.

Kanzaki: He's 187 cm (6'2"). Although he's the largest in Japan Action Enterprise (his agency), Kaku-san is sturdier. If Kaku-san were to join our agency, he'd be in charge of the Super Sentai Robos (laughs).

Kaku: I adore the Robos! Kanzaki-san, how did you end up where you are today?

Kanzaki: At first, I wanted to do motorcycle stunts. Motorcycle and action stunts are different from performance stunts, but I gradually began to think that acting would be interesting as well. When I looked into how I could study, I found out about the agency I work for now and joined.

"It's already been a year since this production started filming. It might be alittle early to ask, but how do you feel looking back?"

Kaku: It was a very short but intense time. All the regulars are really nice kids.

Kanzaki: Agreed.

Kaku: I think it's a miracle that we've made it this far without incident. This is a production that's deeply touched my life. However, it's not over yet. There's the hero show at Theater G Rosso, and maybe, just like with "Zyuden Sentai Kyoryuger," which we had a collaboration with during this production, it'll be revived 10 years later!

Kanzaki: Just the other day, Yuzuki-chan was talking about that on set and said, "I'll be in my 30s then, huh…" When Hachisuka Yuichi-san (PapillonOhger's Suit Actor) heard that, he said, "I'll be 70!" (laughs).

Kaku: (laughs). If there's a 10th anniversary work, I'm looking forward to seeing what the setting will be like. What's going on with the kings? I wonder if they'll get along or split up (laughs).

"Finally, a message to the fans."

Kanzaki: I think the last part of the show is going to be a wild ride, so please keep your eyes peeled. Also, I'll always be a fan of Kaguragi Dybowski, Kaku So, and Teramoto Shogo, HachiOhger's Suit Actor. I'm personally looking forward to seeing how the Directors will "spice up" Kaguragi in the end.

Kaku: Thank you very much. Just reading the script makes me feel excited, but I'd like you all to see what Chikyu's future will be like. Please watch until the very end!

Ikeda Masashi (Jeramie) x Seki Tomokazu (Gerojim's VA)

Ikeda: Nice to meet you, I'm Ikeda Masashi. It's a pleasure!

Seki: Nice to meet you.

"What the? Is this the place for a conversation to be "nice to meet you"?!"

Seki: Afraid so. I had met the other five kings at the production press conference and on the variety show that I'm a regular on, but at that time, Jeramie still only appeared as the narrator.

Ikeda: I'm glad to finally meet you.

"Getting into it, we'd like to ask you about Jeramie and Gerojim. Could you please introduce the other and the role they play?"

Ikeda: Gerojim is a kind character who loves Jeramie more than anyone else, and tries to understand Chikyu and other people more than anyone else. He's a mysterious being who can disappear like haze or disguise himself as someone else, and there's something about him that I haven't fully grasped yet.

Seki: Gerojim was once treated like an "incomplete" Bugnarak, and a staff member explained to me that he felt sympathy for Jeramie, a half human half Bugnarak. If I were to introduce Jeramie…he's white (laughs). I feel that he's mentally mature, but I also feel that he puts up with alot and forces himself to hold back, so I'm afraid that he'll bottle up too much and eventually explode.

"Seki-san, what other information did you receive about Gerojim's character?"

Seki: Well, nothing in particular…Originally, there were no plans for me to appear. However, at the production press conference, I jokingly said, "I'm going to be in the main story, right?!" but after awhile, they asked, "Even if it's a weak role, it's better to play a role that lasts a long time, right?" I answered, "That's right" and got the role of Gerojim. I thought he'd make his introduction in episode 8, but then he was injected with poison by Racules Husty and was defeated, so I thought, "Huh?" (laughs).

Ikeda: Didn't they tell you about future developments, such as becoming a retainer to a king?

Seki: I didn't hear about it. But after that, I felt like I was going to keep up with Jeramie because of how many times he appeared. For the first recording session, I created my role based on the motif of the mayfly insect and the fragile image that I felt from reading the script, but when I saw the footage, I was surprised to find that the visuals looked quite rugged, and that the movements were powerful. Still, I thought it'd be more interesting to have a gap, so I decided to go with a whispering voice.

Ikeda: No kidding. When I first saw the footage of Gerojim with Seki-san's voice during the recording, I wondered how such a voice came from his body (laughs). The cast members playing the kings who were present had a variety of reactions, including bursting into laughter and being shocked. He has a way of speaking that makes you want to imitate him, so all the staff and cast members have fun imitating him on set.

Seki: That makes me happy! Being imitated means being loved.

"It seems difficult to express emotional intonation in that fragile, weak voice."

Seki: It's difficult during combat.

Ikeda: That's true.

Seki: I can't help but feel abit clumsy. However, especially in a situation where he has to fight to protect Jeramie, he can't afford to remain timid. Even during the recording, they told me, "Make it sound alittle more determined," but doing that would make him sound out of character, and it was surprisingly difficult to make that adjustment. Even in the early stages, it was difficult to say brave things with that voice. After I started working with Jeramie, I felt like I was following him, which suited his personality, or rather, I could play him naturally.

"Although his appearance hasn't changed, he's starting to look cuter."

Ikeda: He's really cute.

Seki: That's also thanks to Jeramie. Because he takes care of Gerojim, the viewers have also come to think of him as a "cute guy."

Ikeda: Seki-san added lines that weren't in the script, right? I'm always surprised when I hear this during recording, but I always think it's amazing how even tense scenes are funny and cute, and how they don't destroy the atmosphere of the scene.

Seki: Thank you very much. However, it's not like I'm just having fun and talking on my own. The staff gives off a feeling of, "We'll leave it to you, so please make it interesting," so I try to respond to that. Even if there are no lines in the script, such as scenes where he's alone with Jeramie, I'll sometimes be told, "Gerojim is shown here too, so maybe you could add some lines…" If someone says that to me, I have to include some dialogue, which makes me feel motivated.

Ikeda: I see.

Seki: I'd like to take this opportunity to say that I've been surprisingly following instructions (laughs).

Ikeda: The staff is also tempted to ask for more because they get more than they expected in return.

"Although this is abit of a departure from Gerojim's story, Seki-san also voices Minongan Moth, one of the Uchu Five Jesters. Minongan's role as an idol producer in episode 38 was also great."

Ikeda: I definitely want to hear about that episode!

Seki: With Minongan, I wasn't just doing whatever I wanted (laughs). First of all, when I was offered the role of Minongan, it was a character that was just grunting, so I thought it would be easy to differentiate him from Gerojim. However, when I read the script for episode 38, I found that he was talking alot, so I practiced using Minongan's scratchy voice before going into the recording studio. Then, the movements of Minongan in the video were completely like that of a certain Producer (J.Y.Park), and the Director told me, "Forget all of Minongan's acting up until now, and make him resemble that certain Producer," and he also said, "You can change the lines in the script to make them more interesting." So…

Ikeda: Ahahahaha! So that's how it happened.

Seki: I did the dub as I wanted, and when I said to Iko Marina, the idol played by Ikoma Rina-san, "If that's the case, Omori-san won't be satisfied!," Producer Omori Takahito, who was present, had allowed me to do all the adlibbing up until that point, but that was the only thing I couldn't do (laughs).

Ikeda: Is it because you specifically mentioned his name? (laughs). What an interesting story!

Seki: In any case, I was eager to respond to their unreasonable demands.

Ikeda: When we were doing the dub for episode 38, I saw footage that included Seki-san's voice, and it was so funny that when it came time for the actual recording, Rita couldn't stop laughing and said, "I can't concentrate!" There's also an episode where he "turned off" Minongan's voice (laughs).

Seki: Oh, that's right (laughs).

"Thank you for the behind the scenes info. Now, let's go back to these two Bugnarak…What do you think is the strength that makes them unbeatable compared to the other countries kings and retainers?"

Seki: It's difficult to tell whether he's alive or dead, but Gerojim seems to be immortal. Jeramie has also lived for over 2,000 years, so the amount of time they can spend together is the best part.

Ikeda: What I find charming about Jeramie and Gerojim is their "preciousness." When I see scenes of them having a conversation, I feel as if I've seen something irreplaceable. This is mainly due to Gerojim's character and Seki-san's voice, but it's what makes them an unbeatable combination compared to the other countries. They're also a combination with a strong desire for world peace. Bugnarak used to fight against humanity, but they inherited the kindness of caring for others from the previous king, Desnarak VIII, and have a dream of coexisting with humanity. They're really wonderful characters.

"As of the publication of this book, episode 45 will have aired, but please tell us about any memorable scenes or lines between Jeramie and Gerojim."

Ikeda: In episode 25, there's a scene where Gerojim persuades Jeramie with, "What you lack, is determination!" I was touched not only as Jeramie, but as myself.

Seki: I enjoyed playing Gerojim in that scene because it not only showed that he wasn't just a yes man, but that he was a good retainer who could express his own opinions. I was also impressed by the scene where the two of them talk to each other on the roof.

Ikeda: That was episode 29. The people of Chikyu had fallen for the Uchu Five Jesters strategy, and in order to stop the people of Chikyu from fighting with the people of other countries, they decided to become villains together…

Seki: I also liked the last scene where they walked away together. But since then, we haven't really seen Gerojim, have we? Where is he now? (laughs). Still, even though he doesn't appear much in the show, I think he's fun to play, as I'm able to create heartfelt scene with Jeramie

Ikeda: For scenes where Jeramie's emotions are stirring, he's often with Gerojim, so I try to imagine Seki-san's voice when filming.

Seki: But, didn't they mute my voice during recording because things got too noisy…?

Ikeda: That was Rita! (laughs)

Seki: I also like episode 25. Didn't the kings and all their entourage ride the God King-Ohger? I love the Super Sentai series, and have appeared in quite a few of them, but only carefully selected members can ride the Robos. This time however, I was able to ride in it. I'm grateful to Jeramie for recognizing Gerojim as his first citizen. Jeramie has made my dreams come true, so I'll also serve him (laughs).

Ikeda: (laughs). I'm glad your dream came true.

"As a professional voice actor, what does Seki-san think of Ikeda-san's voice, who also serves as the storyteller and narrator?"

Seki: For awhile after it started, I thought the narrator was Taniyama Kisho-kun, who does the voice for items such as the OhgerCalibur.

Ikeda: Eh?!

Seki: In the case of Super Sentai and Kamen Rider, the person in charge of voicing the transformation items often doubles as the narrator. But as the episodes went on, I started to feel this wasn't the case, and the staff told me, "The sixth warrior is also the narrator." So that was their direction! I think I would've been really surprised if I had been watching as a viewer. Ikeda-kun's voice is gentle and fits the atmosphere, and I think it's very good for narration.

Ikeda: That makes me really happy. I've never been confident with my voice. I'd never been aware of how my own voice sounded, so when I was chosen to play the role of Jeramie and was told that I would also be the narrator, I was very nervous.

Seki: I think you have a lovely voice. Something like that I don't notice myself.

Ikeda: Through this production, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to receive compliments on my voice, and I've gradually gained some confidence.

"We think Gerojim and Minongan's performance is unique, but did Ikeda-san learn anything from Seki-san's voice acting?"

Ikeda: Everything is a learning experience. I usually lend my voice to the movements of Takada Masashi-san, the Suit Actor for Spider Kumonos, but in the beginning, I couldn't get it right at all. When I heard Seki-san's voice, which perfectly matched the movements of Gerojim and Minongan, I was overwhelmed by the intonation of his performance, it was so amazing that I wondered where I could learn from him….

Seki: It's difficult. The first character I played in Super Sentai was Prince Buldont/Kaiser Buldont in "Chouriki Sentai Ohranger." I became friends with the Suit Actors, and I strongly felt that they weren't just fighting, but also performing as actors. I think we learned alot from discussing how to create the role at that time, sharing our opinions, and creating the role together. When you feel like you're not only playing a character, but also merging into the character as an actor, the words come out naturally.

Ikeda: I think it's important to match them up. I also admire your skill in conveying emotions with just your voice. Because we show our faces and perform, we can convey the message through our facial expressions, but when it comes to just our voices, it becomes very difficult…What do you keep in mind when performing?

Seki: You might think, "Does that change anything?," but one of my key points is to imagine the other person's position in a concrete manner. Your voice will sound different depending on if you act towards an indistinct space or towards a clear point. Instead of "approximately here," try to imagine, "Here I am!"

Ikeda: Thank you so much! I'll keep this in mind from now on. Listening to you talk like this, I realize once again that it's the power of Seki-san's voice that has made the combination of Jeramie and Gerojim so well loved.

"Finally, please give a message to the fans."

Ikeda: In the endgame, we have the unfathomably strong Uchu King, Dagded Dujardin. The main highlight is how the Royal Sentai will defeat him. As for Jeramie's highlight, I'd like you to pay attention to how he concludes the story as the storyteller.

Seki: Gerojim hasn't been seen for awhile, but don't worry. He'll stay by Jeramie's side, never leaving. When you really need him, he'll come right away, so please support him. And also, please support and take care of "my" king.

Ikeda: From now on, as Ohsama Sentai King-Ohger's Jeramie and Gerojim,

Ikeda & Seki: Thank you!

[holliday-is-holligay]

OKAY LORD OF THE RINGS HOT TAKE - I WISH THE MOVIES KEPT THE BARROW DOWNS

Art by: QuintusCassius

You don't have to keep Bombadil, they can find their own way out for the sake of pacing, but when I think about just how much this scene actually ties into the rest of the story's themes it becomes more and more of a shame it didn't make it in.

It introduces the idea of a land falling to shadow and establishes, in the most show-don't-tell way so far how intense the threat to the landscape itself the evil they're facing could be. This is a story about a war on the land as well, after all, and this land LOST. And it's NOT a far off land from their own home. Such shadowy devastation and evil and rot and despair is so close to their own home.

We learn these ruins belong to Arnor, an even greater kingdom of men than Gondor. Which, hey, is gonna become super relevant multiple times across the story - like when Boromir is pleading for help with Gondor's plight or talking about its strength, or when we see Minas Tirith under siege. And we KNOW that kingdoms of Men greater than it have fallen.

It establishes The Witch King really early and subtly. This doesn't even need to be mentioned at this point. It can be done the same way it's done in the movies RE Weathertop when Gandalf is explaining who The Witch King is. He can just explain it further. "He stabbed Frodo on Weathertop, and he laid low the Kingdom of Arnor." Flashback to Weathertop and the Barrowdowns.

This also makes it more significant, like it was in the books, that The Witch King is the one leading this army. He's destroyed a kingdom of men once before, he'll fucken do it again.

It makes Aragorn's defeat of him on Weathertop WAY more impactful! One of the Dunedain driving off The Witch King at the site of one of Arnor's greatest losses to The Witch King is a symbolic cue that though these are dark times, these are changing times.

And, of course, it sets up Merry's sword. Merry doesn't just have some random sword in the books. He takes a sword from the Barrow Downs, a sword of the Dunedain, and carries it through the ENTIRE STORY and that's what he stabs The Witch King with on Pelenor Fields. The books even have a paragraph briefly eulogising the sword and talking about the pride of the swordsmith who would never know that they made the weapon who undid their greatest enemy, wielded by a hobbit.

Like... Yeah, as a filmmaker and writer myself I FULLY understand that pacing is a vital thing to keep hold of. And The Fellowship of The Ring is perfectly paced. And deciding what to keep and what to cut is just... a nightmare that Peter Jackson and his team did better than anyone had any right to do.

But I think The Barrow Downs should honestly be talked about similarly to how we talk about The Scouring of The Shire. Its effects and thematic overtones are incredibly far reaching and important to the story and it's definitely one of those "it's a real shame it got cut" moments but I DO understand why they cut it.

[thebunnednun]

LOYALTY [Chapter 5]

Katsuki Bakugou x Sugar Baby! Reader

Summary:

Your ex tries to kill you and now your boss is throwing his hat in the ring too. Good thing Katsuki is here.

Songs: Pour it up by Rihanna Don't tell em by Jeremih feat. YG

As always this is a mature story so minors DO NOT INTERACT!!

TW: Abusive relationships and violence.

---------------Chapter 5: Same Assholes, New Beginnings--------------

Michael was actually the one who turned the stream off as you sat up again, yawning. That was close. You couldn't sleep in this room, even if it was cute. She helped you up and got you situated in your own room, the one that felt safer, even if it wasn't the most comfortable. The package from him was still in the trash, and you weren't sure if there was a police station open this late.

"That was close," Michael said, her tone a mix of concern and exhaustion. "You sure you want me to sleep in the bed with you?"

You nodded, the fear still clutching at your chest. "Yeah, that freaked me out more than I want to admit."

Michael shuddered as she put her bonnet on, settling into the bed beside you. "I told you we should've gone to the police earlier. What if that thing has a tracking device? I know some guys at the club that would love to do us a favor."

You shook your head quickly, not wanting anyone else to get involved. "No, no, no, please. I don’t want anyone else dragged into this."

She sighed, bouncing into the bed to get comfortable. "You need more color in here. It looks like a minimalist beige mom spray-painted everything neutral."

You huffed some air before finally taking off that damn itchy wig. You shook out your real hair before grabbing the matching bonnet Michael had gotten you, sliding it on with a sense of relief. "Well, you try living with a creep who throws your stuff out and controls everything you wear and own. I should really burn those clothes."

Sliding under the sheets, you felt the weight of the day pressing down on you. Michael joined you, leaving the night light on, knowing how much you hated the dark now. Ironically, that was part of his quirk—a dude with psycho strength who could shoot blasts of light from his hands. A flashy quirk, indeed. But when you acted up, he would shroud the entire place in darkness that felt so heavy you couldn’t do anything except curl up and cry. His apartment was so blindingly white that it made you sick constantly.

Yours, though... was a little different. Thanks to quirk marriages, you had two quirks. Much like the pro hero Shoto, you could wield both water and fire. If you were hydrated enough, you could even conjure ice. To think, you shared almost the same quirk as the #3 hero of Japan. 

It was so fucked up. 

You actually had an unused hero license sitting in your drawer. No, literally. That’s how the fucker found you—a small, emotionally vulnerable girl with a shitty home life in a student exchange program. You gave up your career before it even began because of "love," which was really just his small dick ego ruling you again. 

But the truth was, you didn’t think you had the stomach for it anyway. The injuries pros got made you sick, and the idea of your comrades—your friends—dying? God, you couldn’t do it. That’s how you ended up as a marketing manager, finding all the good shots of heroes to promote them to the next top whatever. Especially your main project: Kyoya, aka " Unyielding," hero known for his indomitable spirit and sportsmanship, who embodied the ideals of chivalry and justice. 

Fucking poser. 

Promoting someone like him felt like a way to stay connected to the hero world, even if you couldn’t be a part of it the way you once dreamed. 

What was all of that for, anyway? Who would want a Pro Hero who couldn’t even fight off her own boyfriend—her fiancé at that? Who stayed in a shitty relationship longer than she wanted to, just so she wouldn’t have to be alone or move back home to get her ass handed to her by her parents. Parents that kicked her out three months before graduation, when she needed them the most. It was a miracle you didn’t have any siblings to go back for; at least they didn’t have to suffer through the same hell.

A Pro Hero who has to strip and entertain weirdos on the internet for money because that same ex was blocking all her job opportunities. The same ex who, according to office gossip, had already moved his new girl into the old apartment and was letting her do whatever she wanted to erase every trace of you. 

The bed you slept in, the photos you hung up, the little decorations you picked out with so much care—gone. Replaced by her, some woman you never met, who probably didn’t even know your name. And that was the worst part, wasn’t it? Being erased like you never existed.

Yeah, some hero to look up to.

You lay there, the weight of it all pressing down on you like a boulder, making it hard to breathe. The room felt suffocating despite its size, the walls closing in as the thoughts spiraled deeper. The candle’s gentle flicker was the only source of warmth in the cold void you felt yourself slipping into. The soft glow that once felt comforting now mocked you, reminding you of what you could never truly be—a light in the dark. Instead, you were just another shadow, hiding behind a screen, pretending to be something you weren’t.

Michael shifted beside you, her presence a small comfort in the darkness. But even she couldn’t reach that part of you buried so deep, the part that still ached for something more, something you were beginning to doubt you’d ever have.

It was all just so fucking pointless.

You and Michael settled into the bed, the weight of the day finally lifting as you both let out matching sighs of exhaustion. She rolled onto her side to face you, her dark eyes soft and full of understanding.

“Goodnight,” she whispered, a tender smile playing on her lips. “Love you.”

“Love you too,” you murmured back, reaching out to squeeze her hand gently. The warmth of her touch grounded you, even as the memories of the past threatened to pull you under.

You both said your little prayers, whispering words of gratitude for the small blessings you still held on to—each other, a roof over your heads, the strength to keep moving forward. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to get you through the night.

As you lay in the dark, the familiar feeling of dread crept in, but you pushed it away, focusing on the steady rhythm of Michael’s breathing beside you. Eventually, sleep took you, but it wasn’t peaceful.

You dreamed of suffocating darkness, of hands that grabbed at you and a voice that whispered lies in your ear. You were trapped, no matter how much you struggled, unable to escape the cold grip that held you down. Then, suddenly, you woke with a start, your heart racing and your breath coming in short, panicked gasps.

It was 6 a.m., the room still cloaked in the early morning shadows. Michael was holding you, her arms wrapped protectively around you as if she had sensed your distress even in sleep. You took a shaky breath and snuggled back into her embrace, feeling her warmth seep into you. She didn’t say anything, and neither did you. There was no need for words; the silent comfort of her love was more than enough.

Her alarm went off shortly after, breaking the silence. Michael groaned softly, reluctantly pulling away from you to shut it off. She stretched, her muscles flexing as she prepared for her morning workout routine.

“You gonna be okay?” she asked, her voice still thick with sleep.

“Yeah,” you nodded, giving her a small smile. “I’ll be fine.”

“Alright.” She hesitated for a moment, her eyes searching yours as if looking for any sign of doubt, before finally getting up. “I’m heading to the gym. Text me if you need anything, okay?”

“Okay.”

You both got ready in the quiet morning hours, the sounds of the city slowly waking up around you. The ritual was familiar, almost comforting in its routine. You dressed in your office clothes, something professional but with a touch of lipgloss—a little armor to help you face the day. Michael was ready in no time, dressed in her gym gear, hair tied back, and eyes focused. She was always so strong, so put together, and it made you feel a little stronger too.

The train ride was uneventful, the two of you sharing a comfortable silence as you stood side by side. The city rushed past in a blur, but you barely noticed, lost in your thoughts. When your stop came, Michael leaned over and kissed you on the cheek, a quick, reassuring peck that made you smile despite the nervous flutter in your stomach.

“Good luck,” she said, her voice warm.

“Thanks.” You took a deep breath, steeling yourself as you stepped off the train. The office loomed ahead, and you squared your shoulders, determined to get through the day.

Today, you had a meeting with your boss, presenting a new marketing plan for Koi Fish. It was just another task, another hurdle to overcome, but it felt like a mountain. You could do this. You had to do this. With a final glance at the receding train, you turned and walked into the office, ready to face whatever the day would throw at you.

You step into the office, the sterile scent of coffee and paper filling the air as you walk down the hallway. The click of your heels on the tiled floor echoes with each step, but it’s the sudden hush that catches your attention. Eyes turn toward you—some wide with surprise, others narrowed in curiosity or judgment. It’s as if they didn’t expect you to show up today, or maybe any day.

You offer a polite nod to the receptionist, who quickly looks away, pretending to be busy with her screen. The quiet whispers and sideways glances follow you as you pass by your coworkers, their conversations halting mid-sentence. It’s a familiar feeling, but it doesn’t sting any less. You straighten your posture, your heart thudding a little harder in your chest, and keep your eyes forward.

At your desk, you set down your bag and pull out the notes for your presentation. The marketing plan for  ‘Koi-fish’ sits at the top of the stack, the bright, serene colors a stark contrast to the tense energy around you. You take a deep breath, trying to focus on the task ahead. But the weight of the stares and the unspoken questions hang over you like a cloud.

A colleague, who usually avoids eye contact, suddenly looks at you with a mixture of pity and confusion. "I didn’t think you’d actually be here today," he says, his voice low as if trying not to be overheard.

You offer a small, strained smile. "Why wouldn’t I be? Got a job to do, right?"

He nods slowly, but his gaze lingers a moment too long before he turns away. You can feel the judgment in the air, the silent questioning of how someone like you, with your history, could still manage to show up, put on a brave face, and keep going. 

The pressure in your chest tightens, but you push it aside. Today isn’t about them or what they think. It’s about getting through this presentation and proving to yourself that you can still do this. 

You glance at the clock on your computer screen. Just a little while longer until the meeting. You can handle this, just like you’ve handled everything else. One step at a time.

You scan your badge and make your way to the top floor, the familiar hum of the elevator a small comfort as you brace yourself for the day. The doors slide open, and you're immediately greeted by the sight of your mentees, their faces lighting up as they spot you.

"You're here!" one of them exclaims, rushing over to hug you.

You laugh, returning the embrace. "Of course I am. Now, let's get to work, soldiers."

They fall in line with exaggerated seriousness, but the warmth in their eyes is unmistakable. You take a moment to savor the connection before heading to the conference room.

Inside, you find your boss, Mr. Yakimoto, Kyoya's manager, and his assistant, Mia. She looks relieved to see you, though her frazzled expression suggests a stressful morning. The last figure in the room is a girl with a sharp, confident presence—another hero, no doubt. Her posture is rigid, her eyes tracking your every move.

"Good morning," Mr. Yakimoto says, gesturing to an empty seat. "Please, take a seat, and we'll get started."

You nod, moving to the chair, feeling the weight of everyone's gaze on you as you settle in.

The discussion quickly turned to recent popularity polls and media outlets. Mr. Yakimoto highlighted the positive trends, noting how Kyoya's recent public appearances had garnered significant attention. Kyoya's manager chimed in, mentioning the upcoming announcement from the Hero Commission about the newest top heroes. The excitement in the room was palpable as they discussed the magazine interviews being set up and how the makeup crew was already booked for the shoot.

You let your mentees take the reins, presenting the finer details of the new marketing strategy you'd been working on for Kyoya. They were confident, well-prepared, and delivered their points with a professionalism that made you proud. But as they spoke, you couldn't help but notice Kyoya's gaze. He was staring at you— intently —to the point where it felt like he was trying to drill holes into your skull with his eyes.

At first, you tried to ignore it, focusing instead on your team’s presentation. But his unwavering attention began to make you uncomfortable. You saw him nudge his manager, but the gesture went unnoticed, leaving him to continue his silent, intense observation.

It wasn’t long before others started to pick up on it. Mia glanced at you with concern, and even Mr. Yakimoto paused mid-discussion, his eyes flicking between you and Kyoya as if trying to decipher what was going on. The tension in the room thickened, and your resolve to ignore him faltered for just a moment as you locked eyes with him.

What was he trying to convey? And why did it feel like everyone else was just as confused as you were?

The tension in the room was palpable, growing thicker with each passing second of Kyoya’s unyielding stare. You could sense the confusion spreading among your team and the others present, and it wasn’t long before someone finally broke the silence.

"Um, why is—" a voice chimed in, cutting through the room’s awkward energy. It was her —the girl he left you for. Her name was Sayuri Minami, also known by her hero name, Gleaming Siren . She had an aura that commanded attention, much like Minerva Orland from Fairy Tail . Sayuri was tall and slender, her curves accentuated by her hero costume, which hugged her figure in all the right places. Her long, wavy hair was a striking shade of midnight blue, cascading down her back, and her eyes were a bright, almost unnatural shade of gold. Her presence was as alluring as it was intimidating, her beauty undeniable but her personality... not so much.

She interrupted one of your mentees mid-sentence, her voice carrying a slight edge of disdain. You quickly jumped in, your protective instincts kicking in to shield your mentee from her venom.

"Excuse me, but I believe they were speaking," you said, keeping your tone firm yet professional. The room fell silent as Sayuri’s golden eyes narrowed at you, her lips curling into a faint smirk.

"Oh, I’m sorry," she purred, her voice dripping with false sweetness. "I didn’t mean to interrupt. I just thought maybe we should focus on what’s actually important here."

Her comment was clearly aimed at belittling your mentee’s contribution, but you refused to rise to the bait. Instead, you maintained your composure, ignoring the slight. But Sayuri wasn’t finished. She leaned back in her chair, crossing one leg over the other as she continued to make little comments, her eyes flicking toward you with a calculated glint.

Finally, after a particularly pointed remark, you’d had enough. You turned to her, your expression calm but your eyes sharp. "Sayuri," you began, your voice cutting through the air with precision, "what exactly do you mean by that?"

The room went dead silent. Sayuri blinked, clearly caught off guard by your direct approach. For a moment, she seemed to struggle to find her words, her confidence wavering as all eyes turned to her. She let out a small cough, her poised demeanor slipping.

"I—uh, I just meant..." She faltered, her golden eyes darting around the room as if searching for an escape. "I think I need some water."

Without waiting for a response, Sayuri hastily excused herself, practically fleeing from the conference room. The door clicked shut behind her, leaving a tense silence in her wake.

You took a breath, resisting the urge to roll your eyes, and returned your attention to the presentation. Your mentees looked at you with a mixture of relief and admiration, clearly grateful for how you had handled the situation. Kyoya, on the other hand, was still staring at you, his gaze unreadable but intense.

It took all your self-control to ignore the feeling of vindication settling in your chest. The meeting wasn’t over yet, and there was still work to be done.

The meeting wrapped up with a final round of discussions, everyone contributing their last thoughts on the upcoming hero rankings, magazine interviews, and promotional strategies. You made sure to direct the conversation back to your mentees, giving them the space to shine and showcase their hard work. As the room began to clear, you offered each of them words of encouragement.

"You all did great today," you said warmly, pulling them into a small huddle. "Your presentations were clear, your points were solid, and you handled yourselves with professionalism. Just remember to keep refining those pitches and be ready for any follow-ups. I’m proud of you all."

Your mentees beamed at the praise, their earlier nervousness melting away. You gave them specific feedback, pointing out where they excelled and where they could improve. They nodded, soaking in every word, clearly eager to keep learning and growing.

As they dispersed, gathering their things and chatting excitedly amongst themselves, you were about to make your exit when Mr. Yakimoto’s voice called out to you.

“Ms, a word before you go.”

You turned back, already dreading what was to come. Your instincts told you that this wasn’t going to be good. With a steadying breath, you walked back into the conference room where Mr. Yakimoto waited, his expression grim. Kyoya’s manager, Ms. Hayashi, remained seated as well, her lips pressed into a thin line.

“Please, sit,” Mr. Yakimoto said, motioning to a chair across from them.

You complied, sitting down with your back straight, your hands clasped in your lap. Your eyes flicked between the two of them, sensing the tension.

“We’ve been reviewing recent events, particularly the footage from that... incident at the charity event,” Mr. Yakimoto began, choosing his words carefully. “As you know, the security tapes and video footage of that evening have gone missing. Given the importance of that event and the subsequent fallout, this is a serious issue.”

You kept your expression neutral, even as your heart began to pound. This wasn’t just a meeting; this was an ambush.

“Ms. Hayashi,” he continued, nodding toward Kyoya’s manager, “has requested that you be removed from Kyoya’s team. However, Kyoya has been... unusually adamant about keeping you on board. This puts us in a difficult position.”

You remained silent, letting him finish.

“Because of these complications, and due to recent budget cuts,” Mr. Yakimoto said, his tone now more clipped, “we have no choice but to place you on a temporary suspension, effective immediately. During this suspension, you will not receive pay. Furthermore, if you are found to have had any involvement in the disappearance of those tapes, you will be terminated, and there could be legal repercussions.”

He gave you a look that was meant to be a warning, but it only fueled the fire in your chest. “Consider this a friendly warning,” he added, as if that softened the blow.

You stared at him, your face unreadable. The anger simmered beneath the surface, but you wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of seeing you lose your composure.

“I’ll be taking my leave now,” you said calmly, standing up. The implication was clear—you were going to find a lawyer.

Without waiting for a response, you turned and walked out of the room, your strides purposeful. You kept your head high, refusing to let them see how rattled you were. As you approached the elevator, you pressed the button, your mind racing with a thousand thoughts, none of them good.

The doors slid open, and you stepped inside, leaning against the cool metal wall as you let out a breath. Just as the doors were about to close, a hand shot out, stopping them. The doors reopened, and Kyoya stepped in, his expression unreadable.

“Hold up,” he said, his voice low.

Your heart rate spiked, and you instinctively prepared to defend yourself. It had been a long time since you used your quirk, but you were ready to blast his face with fire if it came to that. You weren’t about to let him beat you to death in an elevator.

He stood close, too close, and his eyes bore into yours with an intensity that made your skin crawl. “Did you get my package?” he asked, his voice deceptively calm.

You shrugged, trying to gray rock your way out of this situation. “I get a lot of packages.”

His frustration grew with each attempt at conversation. He tried to needle you with small talk, but you kept your responses curt and uninterested. Finally, he leaned in, his voice dropping to a nasty whisper in your ear.

“You know, I’ve missed you. Missed the way you used to—”

You shoved him back, your hands sparking with the threat of fire. He took it in stride, a twisted smile curling his lips. “I always loved and hated this part of you.”

You wanted to spit on him but held back. You knew that if you assaulted him right now he would have you arrested so fast that it would make your head spin. The elevator doors finally opened, and you shoved him out with all your strength. As the doors close, your work phone dings. It’s a message from an unknown number: 

“You still got a sweet ass.”  

You screenshot it, making a mental note to report it to HR later. Now, you ran from the building, wishing you had your car, "Lemon," to take you home. Michael would be at her office job until five and then sleep until ten before getting ready for the club. You would be going too tonight and then doing your live stream afterward. You needed all the money you could get if you were being suspended or worse—fired.

Would it even be that bad at this point?

Just like two weeks ago, you ran all the way home, adrenaline pushing you as you bounded up the stairs two by two, unable to wait for the elevator. You burst through your apartment door and found the package in the trash. You'll clean the mess later; now you  change into your sneakers and before locking the door tight and racing to the nearest police station.

You sprint through the streets, your heart pounding in your chest, not from fear but from sheer adrenaline. The nearest police station is a 20-minute walk, but you cut that time in half, your legs pumping as though powered by some secret third quirk that only activates when your heart’s been shattered by an asshole. Whatever it is, you let it fuel you, pushing your feet faster until you reach the station.

You pause outside the doors, trying to catch your breath, fixing your flyaways and composing yourself. As you enter, a blast of cold air hits you, the AC a stark contrast to the heat of your run. You make your way to the receptionist's desk, ringing the little bell. A moment later, an officer with a dog head—likely a hybrid quirk—appears, his expression friendly yet professional.

"How may I help you, ma'am?" he asks, his voice calm and reassuring.

You offer a small smile, trying to keep your voice steady. "Hello, I hope I'm not interrupting, but I was wondering if I might have some assistance. You see, I recently broke up with my ex-fiancé, and he changed the locks on our old apartment while I was at work. Our previous landlord delivered this package to me, and... I’m not sure what's inside. Given our bad history, I thought it would be safer to open it here."

Just as the officer opens his mouth to respond, the doors burst open behind you. The room fills with a sudden rush of energy and noise as Pro Heroes Ground Zero, Red Riot, Deku, and Shoto burst in, dragging several apprehended villains behind them. The villains are a mess of bruises, cuffs, and defiance, clearly the result of a failed attempt at robbing a jewelry store in Tokyo.

Ground Zero—Bakugou—looks as fierce as ever, his usual scowl deepening when he catches sight of the villains. Red Riot stands beside him, his unbreakable form looking no worse for wear. Deku is talking rapidly to Shoto, who remains stoic, though there’s a hint of frost still clinging to his right side. The sight of them is both awe-inspiring and intimidating.

The officer's attention shifts momentarily to the heroes, but he quickly refocuses on you. "That sounds like a wise decision, ma'am. Let's take a look at that package in a safe area. Please follow me."

You nod, trying to ignore the sudden influx of hero energy in the room as the officer leads you to a more secure part of the station. As you walk past the heroes, you can’t help but glance over. Bakugou’s sharp eyes flicker in your direction for the briefest moment before he turns his attention back to the villains, barking orders at one of the officers.

The package feels heavier in your hands as you follow the officer, the anxiety of what might be inside creeping back. The sight of the heroes reminds you of how far you’ve come, and yet how close you still are to the past you’re trying so hard to escape.

As you follow the officer, the package in your hands starts to feel unnaturally warm. At first, you think it’s just the lingering heat from your sprint, but then it begins to burn, the temperature rising quickly. Panic flares in your chest, and you know you have to act fast.

Without thinking, you drop the package onto the floor. You scream, your voice cutting through the noise of the bustling police station.

"ICE IT!"

Shoto, who was mid-conversation with Deku, snaps his head toward you, his mismatched eyes narrowing in confusion. For a split second, he hesitates, unsure of the situation. But then he sees the package on the ground, its surface now glowing a dangerous red.

In an instant, his left side surges with cold, and a blast of ice shoots from his hand, engulfing the package in a thick layer of frost. The officer, realizing what’s happening, tries to rush around the protective glass, his eyes wide with alarm.

You don’t wait to see what happens next. You instinctively move backward, away from the package, when suddenly, you feel two large, hot hands wrap around your waist. They’re strong, pulling you backward with surprising speed and force. Your feet leave the ground as you’re yanked away from the imminent danger.

Just as you’re pulled clear, the package explodes with a deafening bang. The sound reverberates through the station, and shards of ice and debris scatter across the floor where the package once lay. The protective glass shakes from the force of the explosion, but thankfully, Shoto's ice had contained most of it, preventing any serious damage. The overhead sprinklers activate causing a downpour of water on you and the others present. 

But that’s not what’s on your mind right now. 

Your heart pounds in your chest as you realize you’ve been pulled into someone’s embrace. You glance up and meet the fierce, determined gaze of Ground Zero. His hands are still wrapped around your waist, his body shielding you from the blast. His expression is a mix of frustration and relief as he looks down at you.

"You okay?" he grunts, his voice rough but not unkind.

You nod, still shaken but unharmed. "Y-Yeah, thanks..."

Before you can say more, Bakugou releases you, turning his attention back to the aftermath of the explosion. Shoto approaches the now ruined package, his eyes scanning the remnants, his breath still coming out in cold puffs. The other heroes and officers quickly move to secure the area, checking for any further dangers.

The officer who had been helping you earlier finally reaches your side, his face pale with concern. "Ma'am, are you alright?"

You take a deep breath, trying to steady your nerves. "I’m fine, thanks to him," you say, glancing at Bakugou, who is now shouting orders to the pro's.

He catches your gaze for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly as if to say, "Be more careful next time." Then he turns away, already moving on to the next crisis.

You can’t help but feel a mix of gratitude and embarrassment as you process what just happened. The memory of Bakugou’s hands around your waist lingers, along with the realization that your ex’s threat had just escalated to a whole new level.

The noise in the lobby only grows as more officers rush in, their uniforms a blur of navy blue as they move to take the villains into custody. Shoto and Deku follow the officers, their expressions grim as they keep a watchful eye on the apprehended criminals. The scene is chaotic, but everyone moves with practiced efficiency, ensuring that the situation remains under control.

Amidst the controlled chaos, Red Riot rushes over to you, his usual bright smile replaced with a look of deep concern. His red hair is slightly tousled from the recent scuffle, and his sharp, crimson eyes scan you from head to toe, checking for any signs of injury.

"Are you okay?" he asks, his voice gentle despite the intensity of the situation. He places a reassuring hand on your shoulder, his grip firm but careful, as if he’s afraid of hurting you.

You nod, still a bit shaken but grateful for his concern. "I’m fine, just a little rattled. Thanks to Ground Zero and Shoto, nothing worse happened."

Kirishima’s worried expression softens into a small, relieved smile. "Good, that’s good. You were really brave back there."

Before you can respond, the officer with the dog head—his name tag reads "Sergeant Inu"—steps forward, his demeanor calm but authoritative. "Ma'am, if you could follow me to the back, we need to collect a statement from you about what just happened."

You glance back at the scene in the lobby, now being secured by the heroes and officers, before nodding. "Of course," you reply, ready to cooperate. The adrenaline is still pumping through your veins, but you know that giving a clear and accurate statement is crucial.

Sergeant Inu gestures for you to follow him, and you fall in step behind him as he leads you through a side door into a quieter, more private area of the station. As you walk, you can feel Kirishima’s eyes on you, his protective instincts still on high alert.

"Don’t worry," he says, giving you a thumbs-up as you turn to look at him. "You’re in good hands here."

You manage a small smile in return, appreciating his attempt to lift your spirits.

Sergeant Inu leads you to a small, dimly lit room with a table and a few chairs. It’s quieter here, the noise from the lobby now a distant hum. He motions for you to take a seat, and you do so, trying to steady your breathing.

Once you’re settled, Sergeant Inu sits across from you, pulling out a notepad and pen. His eyes are kind but serious as he looks at you. "Alright, ma'am, let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell me everything that led up to the moment you came into the station?"

You take a deep breath, collecting your thoughts. "Yes, I can," you say, your voice steady despite the turmoil inside. And so, you begin to recount the events of the day, from the unsettling package to the terrifying moments just before the explosion.

As you speak, the gravity of the situation starts to settle in. Your ex-fiancé had escalated his harassment to a dangerous level, and now it was clear that you couldn’t handle this alone. You would need the police, legal help, and possibly even the protection of heroes to navigate what was to come.

'Fuck me.'

You follow another officer through another series of winding hallways, finally arriving at a smaller, more private room. The walls are bare except for a few motivational posters, and a single table with two chairs sits in the center. The room feels like a stark contrast to the chaos of the lobby, with its quiet and clinical ambiance. A detective gestures for you to sit down, and you take a seat, your hands trembling slightly.

As you settle into the chair, the officer begins to prepare for the questioning. He sits across from you, his expression a mix of professionalism and concern. “We need to get a full account of what happened today, ma’am. If you could start from the beginning…”

You nod, trying to steady your nerves. “I received a package from my old landlord. My ex-fiancé had the locks changed on our apartment, so I didn’t have access to it. The package was delivered to my new apartment, and I brought it here because I was concerned about its contents.”

The detective takes notes, nodding as you speak. “And why did you think it was necessary to bring it here?”

“I was worried about what might be inside,” you explain. “Given my history with my ex, I didn’t want to take any chances. He has a… history of controlling and abusive behavior.”

As you recount the events, Bakugou and Kirishima watch from behind the glass. Kirishima’s brow is furrowed in concern, while Bakugou’s gaze is locked onto you, his eyes narrowed in thought. He had requested you be brought to the back because something about this didn't sit right in his gut.

Meanwhile, Todoroki and Izuku enter the room, their expressions serious as they join the others.

“What happened?” Izuku asks, his concern evident.

“Apparently, the package was sent by her ex,” Kirishima explains to Todoroki and Izuku, who have just joined them. “She doesn't want to give his name, but she’s had a pretty rough time with him. He’s got a record of abuse.”

Todoroki raises an eyebrow, glancing back at you through the glass. “Is that why you’re so focused on her, Bakugou?”

Bakugou doesn’t respond, his eyes still fixed on you. “Just… keep watching,” he mutters.

Inside the room, the officer continues his questioning. “Do you have any idea what was in the package? Why did it get so hot?”

“I’m not sure,” you admit, your voice trembling slightly. “But when I noticed it getting warmer, I asked for help. I didn’t want to risk it hurting someone or something.”

As you speak, the door to the room opens, and Red Riot—Kirishima—enters, looking more relaxed now that the immediate danger has passed. He gives you a reassuring smile. “Hey, just checking in. Are you sure you’re alright?” He slides you a cup of water and you take it gratefully. 

You nod, offering him a small smile in return. “I’m okay. Thanks for your help earlier.”

Red Riot glances at the officer, then back at you. “I’m glad you’re safe. If you need anything, just let me know.”

The detective continues with his questions, but your mind keeps drifting back to the earlier events. You can’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu, particularly when Ground zero was pulling you back. You try to ignore it, focusing on answering the officer’s questions as clearly as you can.

Meanwhile, Bakugou, Kirishima, Todoroki, and Izuku watch from behind the glass. Bakugou’s eyes are fixed on you, an intense look of recognition in his gaze. Kirishima continues explaining to Todoroki and Izuku, who are both listening intently.

There’s something about you that’s nagging at him, something that feels familiar. He watches as you sit down, your hands nervously fiddling with the hem of your skirt. You’re wearing a mini pencil skirt that hugs your curves, paired with a peachy button-down shirt. The sweater you had on earlier is gone, likely due to the water from the ice blast, and your hair is slightly damp, clinging to your face in soft tendrils. Even though you’ve clearly been through a lot, there’s an undeniable poise to you, an elegance that doesn’t waver even under pressure.

But it’s your eyes that keep pulling him in. There’s something about them—a mix of warmth and vulnerability—that stirs a memory deep within him. He’s sure he’s seen them before, met you somewhere before. The feeling gnaws at him, refusing to be ignored.

Izuku notices Bakugou’s intense focus and raises an eyebrow. “Kacchan, you okay?”

“I’m fine, nerd.” 

Your voice remains steady as you speak, but there’s an underlying tension, a fear that you’re trying hard to keep in check. You’re jiggling your leg under the table- probably from nerves. 

Wait.

Fuck he really needed to start sleeping again. He could have sworn he’s seen those legs before. Bakugou’s eyes narrow slightly as he watches you, his mind racing to connect the dots. There’s no way he’s going to let this go. 

As the questioning wraps up, the detective informs you that they’ll be taking measures to ensure your safety. They discuss options for protection and keeping you secure, given the potential threat from your ex. The room feels a little oppressive now, the weight of the situation still hangs heavily in the air.

But you don't want to give more details than you have to and he's getting frustrated. Just before you’re about to leave, the detective places a protective detail on you, ensuring that you won’t be left alone. You feel a sense of mixed angery and lingering anxiety as you prepare to head out. "I believe I did say no thank you."

Bakugou watches you leave the room, his expression unreadable. The memory of your eyes, the way you looked today, and the connection he feels but can’t quite place—it's all gnawing at him. 

And he was gonna get to the bottom of it. 

The detective looks taken aback as you decline the offer for protective help. “Are you sure you don’t want us to arrange something? It’s important to stay safe.”

You sigh, feeling the weight of your decision but knowing it’s the right one. “I appreciate the offer, but I’d rather just have a report made of today’s events. I don’t want any special treatment.”

The present officer’s eyebrows knit together in confusion. “Why would you refuse protection? This is a serious situation.”

You take a deep breath, trying to steady your voice. “Because… I don’t have much evidence against my ex. And… well, he’s about to become a top 10 pro hero.”

The revelation hangs in the air, causing a ripple of shock among the officers and the pro heroes observing from behind the glass. The detective's eyes widen, clearly stunned. “He’s a pro hero?”

You nod, your expression a mixture of resignation and frustration. “Yeah. He’s got a high rank in the hero community. I’m worried that the law and the public won’t be on my side. They might think I’m just making things up or trying to bring him down.”

The shock on the detective's face is palpable, and he glances nervously at the pro heroes behind the glass. Kirishima, who had been standing quietly, looks even more concerned. He turns to Bakugou and the others, a look of disbelief on his face. “Unmanly.”

Izuku’s eyes widen, his concern evident. “That’s serious….”

Todoroki looks at you with a mix of sympathy and anguish as he remembers his own mother. “If he’s a pro hero, it’s even more important that we handle this carefully. We’ll have to contact Jiro and Momo to see what they can dig up.”

Bakugou’s gaze is still locked on you, his expression shifting from one of confusion to something darker. He’s clearly grappling with the gravity of your situation and the impact it has on how he views you.

The detective nods, his demeanor now more serious. “We’ll make sure your report is properly documented. It’s unfortunate that you’re in this situation, and we’ll do what we can to assist.”

As the officers begin to prepare the report, you thank them and leave the room, feeling the weight of the earlier confrontation and the new revelations. The pro heroes behind the glass continue to watch you with concern, each processing the news in their own way.

You exit the station, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension. The thought of Kyoya trying to kill you has you in a daze and you realize that you should’ve asked for a business card at least or a ride home. The reality of your situation weighs on you, but there’s little time for reflection as you start running again. All but kicking the doors open, you change quickly into a fresh outfit, a look that blends professional and alluring, ready for the night at the strip club. The urgency of needing money for your uncertain future drives you, and you race out the door, determined to make the most of the evening ahead

As you make your way to the club, the world outside seems to blur into a mix of neon lights and distant chatter. The adrenaline from the day’s events still pulses through you, adding to the electric anticipation of the night. The stakes are high, but you’re ready to face whatever comes your way, fighting for your future with every step you take.

You burst into the club’s dressing room, the familiar hum of activity immediately subdued by your presence. The other dancers, already in their pre-show routine, turn in unison, their faces a mix of curiosity and concern as they see you. Micheal, her phone pressed to her ear, ends the call abruptly and hurries over.

“Where were you?” she demands, her voice tinged with worry. “I’ve been calling you for hours!”

She throws her hands up into the air before dropping them down onto her hips.

You sit down heavily, your body sinking into the plush couch as the other girls crowd around you. Their hugs are a comforting blanket against the storm of emotions raging inside you. You take a deep breath and start recounting the day’s chaotic events, your voice trembling but determined.

As you describe the unsettling encounter at the police station, some of the girls gasp in shock, their hands flying to their mouths. Others express their frustration more physically, punching and kicking the walls in frustration. Micheal, still holding your hands, looks at you with a fierce mix of concern and anger.

“Oh, fuck no!” Micheal exclaims. “You needed to report his ass!”

You shake your head, fighting back tears as the weight of the day presses down on you. “I literally can’t think of a worse way to get sold out as a sex worker while being unpaid and needing money for a lawyer when school is literally less than two weeks away!” You’re not angry, just overwhelmed, trying to keep the nausea and tears at bay.

You didn't feel up to performing tonight, you wanted to puke and to hide under your covers for a long time. There was an old burner phone with a google drive account that had pictures and videos of the abuse he put you through. It would show the dates of when things were taken and that was hidden inside a safe box in the bank. He didn't know about the phone, that was your best bet for some evidence.

Micheal was now your makeup with practiced ease and adjusting your wig until you look every bit the confident performer. You change into a lacey babydoll dress and silver heeled sandals, the outfit a mix of comfort and allure, better suited to help you feel at ease despite the circumstances.

Once you’re ready, Micheal gives you a supportive nod, her expression softening with a mixture of pride and concern. She offers her hand, and you grasp it firmly, drawing strength from her presence. The two of you head towards the stage, joined by Ruby, Pearl, Sapphire, and the other dancers who form a supportive circle around you.

You step onto the center floor with your troupe and the energy of the club envelops you.

Bakugou scanned the neon lit club, his sharp eyes catching every movement, every flicker of light from the scattered neon signs. The air was thick with the mingling scents of alcohol, sweat, and cheap perfume, making his nose wrinkle in distaste. His grip tightened around the glass of whisky as he took a slow, measured sip, the burn doing little to soothe the irritation gnawing at him.

He couldn't believe he was here. This wasn't his scene—too chaotic, too noisy, and filled with people he couldn't care less about. Yet, here he was, all because he couldn't shake the nagging suspicion that had taken root in his mind since the moment he woke up. His usual go-to corner was empty, devoid of your presence. It was unsettling.

A small part of him, the part he'd never admit to anyone, not even himself, had hoped you'd be here. That you'd be the girl from the station, even if that meant he'd have to confront whatever that meant for the both of you. But the more rational part of him, the one that kept him grounded, kept him from making impulsive decisions, was screaming at him to leave, to not get involved.

'What if she is?' The thought circled back, refusing to be silenced. He took another sip, savoring the warmth that spread through his chest, but it did little to quiet the tumultuous thoughts racing through his mind. 'What are you gonna do then? Drag her outta here and throw her in the back seat of the Ferrari?' He scoffed inwardly at the idea. He wasn't that kind of guy. He wouldn't force anything on anyone.

But he had to know.

He picked a seat at a center table, the perfect vantage point to observe without drawing too much attention to himself. Of course, that plan fell through the moment some idiot tried to claim the spot first.

"Hey man, I was sitting there—"

Katsuki didn’t bother with words, just turned his gaze, cold and sharp, on the guy. The idiot stiffened, sunglasses slipping down the bridge of his nose as he faltered under Bakugou’s intense stare. “Never mind, it’s all good,” the guy mumbled, backing off with a hasty retreat.

Bakugou mused, his lips curling into a smirk for just a moment before his face returned to its usual scowl. He ignored the curious glances that flickered his way, dismissing them as irrelevant. He had one goal tonight—to find you, or to confirm that you weren’t here.

It took everything in him to remain calm, to not look like some obsessed stalker while his eyes scanned the room, searching for a familiar face among the crowd of strangers. 'Just a quick check,' he told himself, 'and then I’m outta here.' But even as he thought it, he knew it wouldn't be that simple.

As the DJ’s voice crackles through the speakers, he announces the upcoming performance with a flourish. “Ladies and gentlemen, get ready for a show you won’t forget! Let’s hear it for Marshmallow and Baby Doll!”

His eyes narrow when he sees the spotlight shift to the main stage. The DJ’s announcement fades into the background as the lights focus on the two figures stepping into the limelight. The first is Micheal, with her confident stride and dazzling smile. The second, clad in a similar lacey dress you wore earlier, makes his heart skip a beat.

It’s you.

The pulsating lights of the club dance across the floor, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that wash over the crowd. The beat of Rihanna's "Pour it Up" thumped through the speakers, the bass vibrating through the floor. The crowd's energy was infectious, feeding into your every movement as you both began to sway to the rhythm.

You and Micheal glide onto the stage, both wearing outfits that shimmer under the lights. Your flowy dress swishes with every step, and Micheal’s ensemble colors complement yours, making you both look like a perfectly matched pair. The audience’s cheers rise as you prepare to start your routine.

Micheal took the lead, her movements fluid and powerful, as she set the tone for the performance. You followed her lead, letting the music guide you as your body moved effortlessly, your hips rolling in time with the beat. The audience was captivated, their eyes glued to the two of you as you danced in perfect harmony.

Micheal spun around the pole with a graceful ease, her leg wrapping around it as she arched her back, her hair cascading down like a waterfall. You watched her with admiration, your own body moving to the rhythm as you danced beside her. The crowd was going wild, their cheers growing louder with every move.

As the song's chorus hit, you felt a surge of confidence. For the first time, you approached the pole, your hand gripping it as you spun around, your body following in a fluid motion. The crowd roared in approval, their cheers filling the room as you lifted yourself up, your muscles flexing as you held your body in a perfect split. You could feel their eyes on you, their energy feeding into your own as you moved with a newfound strength and grace.

“Throw it up, throw it up (throw up)

 Watch it all fall out (fall out)

 Pour it up, pour it up (pour up)

 That's how we ball out (ball out)”

Rihanna's voice echoed through the room, and you sang along, your voice blending with hers as you twerked and whined to the beat. You could see the girls in the front row screaming for you, their faces lit up with excitement as they threw bills onto the stage. You smiled to yourself, feeling a rush of pride as you worked the crowd, your every move earning you more cheers and applause. 

Sad bitches love money after all. 

In the background, Bakugou had been sitting at a center table, his attention laser-focused on you. The moment he saw you step onto the stage, his heart skipped a beat, and he couldn’t tear his eyes away. He had come here to see if it was really you, and now that he had his answer, he was utterly mesmerized. When you performed the split and showed your strength on the pole, his breath caught in his throat.

 “Strippers goin' up and down that pole

   And I still got more money

   Four o'clock and we ain't going home

   'Cause I still got more money”

He stood up, pulling out three thick stacks of cash and placing them on the edge of the stage. The sight of the money caught your eye, and you slowed your spin on the pole, locking eyes with him. The connection was electric, a silent understanding passing between you as you decided to give him a show he wouldn’t forget.

With feline grace, you crawled across the stage towards him, your body moving with a sensual rhythm that had the crowd on the edge of their seats. The noise of the room faded into the background as you reached out, your fingers brushing against Bakugou’s cheek. His eyes darkened with intensity as you leaned in closer, your nails gently scratching under his chin, like you were petting a kitten.

 “The look in your eyes, I know you want some”

He leaned into your touch, his breath hitching as you ran your hand down his chest, feeling the hard muscles beneath his shirt. You could feel the tension between you, a spark igniting as you pressed your palm against his chest, holding his gaze. Then, with a smirk, you pushed him back down into his seat, the unexpected move catching him off guard.

 “Money on my mind

   Money, money on my mind

   Throw it, throw it up

   Watch it fall off from the sky,”

The crowd erupted in wild cheers, the noise crashing over you like a wave as you stood up, your eyes still locked on Bakugou. He sat there, trying to hide the flush creeping up his neck, not from embarrassment but from the sheer thrill of the unexpected. You had just turned the tables on him, and the look in his eyes told you he wasn’t sure how to react. 

He didn’t give a shit you did that in front of the crowd, he just hadn’t expected it to feel so good . 

“Who cares how you haters feel

  And I still got more money

  My fragrance on and they love my smell

   I still got more money

   So who cares about what I spend,”

As you continued to dance, the crowd’s energy surged, and you knew that tonight, you had owned the stage in a way you never had before. Bakugou’s gaze never left you, his mind racing as he tried to reconcile the woman on stage with the girl he once knew.

“I still got more money

  My pocket's deep, and they never end

   I still got more money

   I'm going dumb with all my friends,”

As the final beats of "Pour It Up" reverberated through the club, you and Micheal finished your routine with a flourish, your bodies perfectly in sync as the crowd roared in approval. The lights dimmed for a moment, giving you a brief respite from the intense spotlight.

Bakugou, who had been watching you intently, leaned back in his seat, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He flicked more bills onto the stage, one after another, until the DJ couldn’t ignore it any longer. 

“Shoutout to that blond dude over there that looks pissed off! I saw those 3 racks!”

The DJ announced over the speakers, drawing more attention to Bakugou. Almost instantly, the other dancers swarmed him, eager to thank their generous patron.

Bakugou’s expression shifted to one of mild annoyance as he found himself surrounded by the other girls. “Oh, fuck no,” he muttered under his breath, trying to maintain his composure as they fawned over him. But despite the situation, he kept an eye on you, watching as you were swept up in a whirlwind of affection from your friends.

Micheal and Mugumi hugged you tightly, their excitement infectious as they squealed and jumped up and down with you still in their arms. Little Ruby was kissing your cheeks, her tiny hands cupping your face as she showered you with praise. You felt a wave of warmth and happiness wash over you, a sense of belonging that you hadn’t felt in years. These women weren’t just colleagues; they were your support group, your friends, and the realization made your heart swell with gratitude.

As more of the businessmen around the club noticed the affection being shown to you, they began throwing more money onto the stage, eager to join in the celebration. Pearl—Casey—looked at them with thinly veiled disgust, her nose wrinkling as she observed their behavior. But before she could say anything, Sapphire gently hushed her, flashing a charming smile as she began to flirt with them, expertly keeping the mood light and playful.

The businessmen, already tipsy and loosened up by the atmosphere, made a request for another performance. The idea was met with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd, and you could feel the buzz of excitement in the air.

But first, you needed to clean up. You and the girls quickly gathered all the money scattered across the stage, stuffing the bills into your arms and purses before hurrying to the back. The adrenaline was still pumping through your veins, your mind racing as you headed to the dressing room.

Once inside, you moved with a sense of urgency, something gnawing at the back of your mind. You couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. You dumped everything from your work bag—a simple duffle—into one of the filing cabinets and locked it. Then, you stuffed the duffle full of the money, every last bill, before quickly hiding the bag in the ceiling tiles, pressing it into the narrow space with a surge of paranoia.

You took a step back, your heart pounding as you stared up at the hidden duffle bag. Something didn’t feel right, but you couldn’t put your finger on it. Brushing off the unease, you forced yourself to focus, knowing that you still had a job to do. With the money safely stashed away, you could finally allow yourself to breathe, if only for a moment.

The noise from the club was muffled, but you could still hear the cheers and the music, the vibrations thrumming through the walls. You straightened up, taking a deep breath to steady your nerves. The next performance was just around the corner, and the crowd was hungry for more.

The girls exchanged glances, concern flashing in their eyes as they caught on to your unease. Micheal leaned in closer, her voice a low whisper, “You know there’s no way the manager and bouncers won’t take a cut of that money otherwise, right?” Her words were a stark reminder of how things worked around here, and you could see the others nodding in agreement, their expressions growing grim as they remembered the last time something like this had happened.

“Fuck it, I'll quit tonight if that fat bastard thinks he's getting his hands on my money!” Sapphire declares with fierce determination. The room went silent, everyone turning to look at her in shock. Micheal, however, just smirked, giving her an approving nod.

“Nice to see you again, Eraza. Been a hot minute,” Micheal remarks. Sapphire—Eraza—smiles and rolls her eyes.

Ruby, ever the firecracker, jumped up and adjusted her bikini top with a huff. “Yeah, if they touch our money again, we quit and go to that club for pro heroes!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with the same defiant energy. The mention of pro heroes caught your attention, your mind flashing back to the scene at the police station earlier. You shook the thought off, focusing on the task at hand.

Determined, you switched into a two-piece set with a flowy skirt, the fabric fluttering around your thighs as you moved. You slipped a garter belt onto your left leg, the cool metal of the buckle pressing against your skin. A quick adjustment of your lipstick, and you were ready. “Then let’s milk them for all they’ve got,” you said, your voice steady, though there was a manic edge to your smile.

Micheal looked at you, her surprise evident. Concern flickered in her eyes, but she matched your smile with one of her own, albeit more tempered. “We go big or go home,” you added, and the others nodded in agreement, the tension in the room shifting into a shared resolve.

“Thank God, you don’t drink or do drugs,” Micheal murmured, her relief palpable. You giggled, the sound light and airy as you shook off the last of your nerves. 

After all, this was your moment, and nothing was going to ruin it. Not tonight. But as you stepped out of the dressing room, a chill ran down your spine, a sense of foreboding settling in your gut. You shook it off, knowing you had to keep your head in the game. Together, you all made your way back to the main stage, the energy between you electric.

The DJ whispered something to Micheal as you all took your places, the lights dimming around you. The atmosphere in the club was charged, anticipation hanging thick in the air. You could see your ash-blond regular still fending off the other women (and some men) who had latched onto him. They squealed and fawned over him, their voices rising in pitch as they practically screamed  obscene things, hoping to catch his attention. The dude looked like he was seconds away from blowing up the entire club, his patience worn thin, but the bouncers weren’t in any rush to step in and stop it.

The spotlight swung over to you and the girls, the crowd’s attention snapping back to the stage as the music began to pulse through the speakers. The DJ’s voice boomed over the microphone, announcing your return, and the crowd erupted in cheers. You could feel the eyes on you, the hunger, the anticipation. It was time to give them a show they’d never forget.

The beat of "Don't Tell 'Em" by Jeremih starts to pulse through the club, the sultry rhythm reverberating in your chest as you and the girls move to the music. 

“‘Rhythm is a dancer, I need a companion

   Girl, I guess that must be you

  Body like the summer, fuckin' like no other

   Don't you tell 'em what we do,” 

The stage lights flash, casting you all in a glow that enhances the sensuality of the dance. You and Micheal move in sync, your bodies swaying to the seductive beat as you act out the lyrics with every dip and roll of your hips.

As you dance, you catch sight of the manager emerging from his office, a thick cigar clamped between his teeth, the smoke curling lazily around his head. He surveys the room with a calculating eye, pausing as he notices the commotion at your regular’s table. His gaze shifts, locking onto you and the girls on stage, and then he gestures sharply towards the back, his intention clear. Panic flares in your chest, and you turn to flip your hair, a feigned act of confidence that’s really just an excuse to share a quick, panicked glance with the others.

You notice two of the bouncers beginning to move towards your mysterious regular and the last thing you want is for him to get caught up in some unnecessary trouble. You know how these things go: a misunderstanding, a few harsh words, and then it’s fists flying. And while his scars say he doesn’t seem like the type to shy away from a fight, you can’t bear the thought of him getting beat up for just enjoying a performance.

With a decision made in a split second, you glide off the stage and slip onto his table, moving with the grace and ease that you’ve perfected over the month. The flashing lights create an almost ethereal halo around your head as you approach, making Bakugou blink twice, his sharp eyes momentarily softened by the surreal effect. For a second, he thinks he’s seeing things—something divine in the way you move, the way the lights play tricks with the shadows around you.

You wrap your arms around his neck, your cool hands pressing against the warmth of his skin, and you can almost feel the tension in him, the way his muscles coil tight under your touch. But instead of reacting violently, he gently places his arms around your waist, his hands resting on his elbows as if he’s hesitant to touch you too intimately, unsure if you want to be touched at all. The contrast between his careful, almost protective hold and the raw energy he radiates is striking, and it sends a shiver down your spine.

“Only is you got me feeling like this

 Oh, why, why, why, why, why

 Loving while grabbing the rhythm of your hips

 That's right, right, right, right, right,”

Bakugou’s heart is pounding, so hard he’s convinced it might explode again in his chest. It’s a sensation you make him feel often, this uncontrollable rush of something he can’t quite name—something close to panic, but sweeter, almost intoxicating. As he takes in the details of your appearance—the smooth curve of your waist, the way your hair falls just so—he’s hit with a wave of recognition. The way you hold yourself, the slight tremble in your legs, it all clicks into place. The same eyes he saw at the police station, the same waist he pulled away from that burning package, the same leg you lotioned the night before.

But your hair—it’s different. As you move closer, he realizes the truth. It’s a wig. The realization is oddly grounding for him, a piece of a puzzle finally snapping into place.

A few of the other dancers start to murmur, their voices laced with jealousy and spite as they badmouth you for hogging the attention. But you don’t let go, and neither does he. You lean in, your lips brushing against his ear, your breath sending a shiver down his spine as you whisper, 

“Usual spot?” 

You tilt your head up slightly, just enough for him to catch a glimpse of those familiar eyes.

Bakugou has to shift a bit to get a better look at you, his mind racing as he connects all the dots. There’s no mistaking it now—those eyes, that leg, that waist. It’s you. The same woman from the station, the same one who’s been lingering in the back of his mind ever since. And now you’re here, in his arms, and he can feel the weight of the moment settling over him like a heavy cloak.

He can’t help but smirk, though, the corner of his mouth twitching up as he realizes just how many coincidences have led to this exact moment. But his thoughts are cut short as you pull back slightly, just enough to meet his gaze. You’re still wrapped around him, but there’s something almost tentative in the way you hold each other— two people who don’t quite belong to each other but can’t seem to let go.

As the song begins to wind down, you both remain locked in that moment, the world around you fading into the background. 

But then, a voice cuts through the air, shattering the bubble you’ve been in.

“Funny. Real fucking funny, baby doll.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Taglist: @elarakive, @thealtofvalleyxdoodles, the-dumpster-fire-of-life, @raendarkfaerie If you wanna be added lemme know!

Chapter 1 is here

Chapter 4 is here

That was the first chapter! So far there are 9 posted on my ao3 account.

I own none of the images or art!!!

Be sure to check out my other works and leave likes and comments, they really help. I have a Farmer Bakugou x Gardener Reader here in the master list. Drop a follow as well if you please. Don’t be shy to leave me a little reblog if you want.

I promise I bite~

See you soon my loves!!

(｡･ω･｡)ﾉ♡

[tobiasdrake]

One consequence of the DB heroes' anonymity is a lack of organizational interference in their affairs. Compare the Marvel and DC universes, where countless shadowy government and/or corporate organizations are always trying to control, copy, or counter superheroes whose abilities and origins are all public knowledge because they're incredibly famous, justifying themselves (with various degrees of sincerity) with claims that the superheroes are too powerful to go unchecked.

I don't think it's a coincidence that Super Hero, which leans into that American comics iconography, has a plot along those lines.

It's worth noting that the political structure of the Dragon Ball Earth is completely unlike our own.

King of the World, not to be confused with the World-King.

The planet has long been a single monarchist nation governed unilaterally by a king. This centralization of all political global authority under a single throne means Big Picture the world is at peace but Small Picture... the government doesn't seem to do much.

There is a small standing military force that King Furry employs.

They aren't good for much against the likes of Piccolo or Cell (or, in filler, Nappa). But they do exist. This is the Royal Defense Army. They are a thing that exists, and their existence makes the government's inadequacies kinda damning?

Because. Like. Obviously they're no good against Piccolo or Cell. But what about these clowns?

Sure seems like something the Royal Defense Army should probably be doing something about, huh? Has anyone contacted the Earth's King about this?

Do we even have a way to contact the Earth's King? Or are we just paying our taxes into a black void?

...

Do we even pay taxes?

This centralization of supreme power makes the planet's system of governance supremely vulnerable to a powerful enough guy walking in and declaring himself king by way of conquest. It's literally what Piccolo does.

Piccolo marches in, sits his ass on King Furry's throne, and declares "New rule: There are no rules! Let's kill all cops and put Monokuma heads on everything!" And. Like. He can do that. Because any system of supreme authority centralized in a single autocrat who wields absolute power is always susceptible to this sort of coup.

But also. Like. It doesn't seem like the world Piccolo would make if he didn't die this afternoon is substantively different from the world that already exists.

A region of the world is famous for a barbarian warlord who massacres anyone who approaches his mountain and who raids and pillages the surrounding countryside to steal their wealth for himself.

I mean, Goku gets along well with Gyu-mao, the Ox Demon King, but that's because he's an old friend of the family.

But. Like. A barbarian warlord who's been raiding the countryside long enough to become a famous legend sure does seem like something King Furry should be doing something about, doesn't it? The same administration that's Shrug Emoji-ing the Red Ribbon Army also seems disinterested in doing anything about this.

Earth's King has also allowed Fry-pan Mountain to remain on fire for ten years.

So. Like. It seems like, so long as you don't threaten the capital, the Royal Defense Army will let you be. Cynically, though fairly accurate to real-world politics, their only job is to defend the consolidation of power under the throne; Not the citizens.

This is not a product of malice; King Furry genuinely cares about his subjects and even risks his life to undermine Piccolo.

So I don't believe he's just, like, a greedy despot sitting pretty on everyone's tax dollars or something. He's just. Woefully inadequate as the sole authority for an entire planet of disparate cultures and regional disputes. He has no idea how to fulfill the role he's been given.

Could any single person ever responsibly fill that role? It's fair to note that God himself suffers from a similar malady, and even expresses dissatisfaction in his own performance as the Earth's God.

Any time he speaks of his tenure as God, it's only ever with regret for his mistakes. It's hard, whether as a political or spiritual leader, to wield unilateral authority over an entire planet responsibly.

The system of laws that Piccolo would have torn down are defended by cops who aren't only useless against cosmic space aliens and demons. Like, that's understandable. I'm not going to hold it against the police that they couldn't handle Android 18.

I love how these two stand by and watch themselves get robbed. They were putting up token resistance in the form of going "Hey, quit it." But then 16 picks up the truck so they withdraw their objections and hang out.

Sipping their coffee and going off to call the company they work for. Like, "Hey guys, it happened again."

In any case, nothing against the cops for not being able to do anything about that.

They don't prepare you for this at police academy.

But they're also useless against everyday bank robbers and gunmen, of which the Dragon Ball world seems to have in plentiful supply.

That guy has a fucking RPG. Americans aren't even this well-armed. These are two random thugs, and the most the cops can do about them is to phone a high school girl from a couple towns over to please come here in a helicopter and deal with the robbers.

This is, like, Gohan's second day of school. And on his first day, this was happening in Satan City itself.

This is Satan City. Home to the man who defeated Cell. Arguably the most dangerous place to be pulling this, but here we go.

This is just what life is like in Dragon Ball cities, I guess. Remember that time Goku got mugged in West City?

When Piccolo says "Go nuts, there are no laws," how much would that really have changed society? Even in times where "the world is at peace", we're basically living in The Purge.

So. We have roaming warlords and also massive crime problems. But at least the central authority's taking care of the economy and keeping its people fed, right?

Does the world government not have systems in place for global management of public services? Because water is a pretty important public service. I sure hope these people aren't paying taxes.

Hey, remember that time a ten-year-old child was the sole provider for a family of five and had to enter a martial arts tournament so that none of these children starve? Thanks, World Government!

Theoretically, the existence of a King of Earth means world peace and an end to international politicking. We are all citizens of the same nation and have no reason to fight over territory or whatever, and we exist under a centralized government that can step in and take care of disputes.

But in practical terms, the existence of a King of Earth means global anarchy. It's everyone for themselves in the Dragon Ball world because any form of governance or law enforcement is tied to a single monarch in a faraway land who has no idea what is happening in your backyard. The mechanisms of power are one big Shrug Emoji, and the people are left to fend for themselves in every city and every rural environment.

So, overall, I'd say the Dragon Ball world is in the opposite boat as Marvel/DC. Instead of shadowy government forces trying to control all the heroes, we have an extremely hands-off system of governance that isn't just woefully inadequate to protect its citizens from cosmic threats but also utterly disengaged from even terrestrial problems that a government would naturally be responsible for.

[yourheart-inmyhands]

Since you made a fanfic about the reader having a vision, I wonder how the archons will react to the reader controlling all the elements like the traveler. If you can do it, I would be grateful for your attention.

ooo i never thought about this before, i hope you like it! and please keep in mind that the more characters you ask for the shorter each segment will be because i don't want my posts getting too long as of current, i'm trying to keep things simple while i get back into the swing of writing :D

Warning: this post contains yandere-themes, including delusional behaviors, mentions of being held against will, obsessive behavior, slight threat towards reader, and other potential topics. Please read at your own risk!

Yandere!Venti would find it cool, but concerning as he doesn't want you to get any smart ideas. Do keep in mind though that even if you can use all seven elements, he’s still far stronger than you and will put a stop to any bold ideas. “Let’s remember who holds all the power in this relationship.”

Yandere!Zhongli would be concerned about you using it to your advantage. The only other person to do such a thing was The Traveler and he fears you may try to pull some crazy heroic stunt to get away from him. Of course, with the help of some lovely little geo cuffs, those little powers of yours are shut off real quick. “Don’t let greed get the better of you my love, power is not for the weak.”

Yandere!Raiden would merely scoff at you, believing that even if you could wield all seven it still wouldn’t be enough to stand up to her. The Goddess of Eternity is more than just everlasting, she is power. “If you intend to use any of those against me I suggest you think otherwise, lest you feel the wrath of your Archon.”

Yandere!Furina would find it so cool, asking that you show off some of your tricks! Of course she’ll show you some of her’s as well. She would allow you to have free reign of your powers so long as you do it only indoors and refrain from letting anyone else know. Only her and Neuvillette are privy to the information as she tells him everything, plus if you should ever step out of line and should she not be around to correct youm she can trust him to do it for her. “What a lovely talent you have there darling! Just remember, secrets stay inside the house.”

[sufferu]

Did you read that WHDAAA spin-off fic by Vyazov23 called Watching Arc 4 in The Theater of Despair ? Any things you liked and have problems with?

I did! I appreciated that the guy managed to actually FINISH a react fic lol: I’m realizing more and more that these things are a pain and a half to actually write. SERIOUS props to the one who actually managed to pull it off, I’m not even being sarcastic.

Though, to be entirely honest…I disagreed with the entire main premise regarding how the characters would react, lol. I actually don’t want to shit on a singular work, though — especially not one that had so much effort put into it, like goddamn the guy actually FINISHED that one — so I’m gonna go ahead and use this as a segway to talk about the most common usages of this trope that I disagree with in this fandom.

The idea that anyone would learn about Return By Death and go “Okay! This is a good thing, and Subaru is a hero!” — I feel like it goes against the themes of Re:Zero, as well as a lot of established characterization. (And also the harem subplot that often seems to go alongside that idea, lol.) And I feel like a react fic that goes over the experiences of Return By Death, furthermore, should be centered around the characters coming to terms with (or grappling with, anyway) the fact that they FUCKING KILLED HIM. Like, SOO many times. Rem and Ram, in particular, should be characterized as absolutely, irreconcilably devastated by what they did in Arc 2. In fact I actually have a lot of criticisms about how these fics tend to characterize a lot of these characters in general, especially Julius, Ferris, Wilhelm, and Rem. Rem is simple — I don’t agree with the idea that she is actually a good influence (or that the other characters would see her as such, more on that in a sec) — but for the other three…I think a lot of these fics tend to twist themselves in knots trying to make them approve of Subaru’s self-destructive behavior, despite all three of them having canon moments contradicting it.

Julius’ first appearance was him desperately trying to save Subaru from getting slaughtered and most of the subsequent scenes with him have included something about him either trying to be a good role model (that will help Subaru Not Die Horribly) or taking some step to actively keep him safe (whether that be going out of his way to teach him a hands-on lesson about self-awareness the moment they meet up again post-Whale or quietly sticking Ia on him without letting him know). Hell, it’s heavily implied that he associated Subaru with his beloved, sickly, baby brother pre-Gluttony. The knowledge that Subaru has apparently been not just getting regularly put in mortal danger, but not even getting out of it ALIVE in a lot of cases — I think he’d have a way worse reaction to that than is normally shown.

Wilhelm, too — not enough focus is given to the fact that Subaru’s situation is basically just a worse version of the one that Theresia was forced into by being the Sword Saint. Wilhelm went and dueled his wife specifically to free her from the shackles of being forced to wield a sword when all she really wanted to do was care for flowers. Hell, in canon he already has a scene where he refuses to keep training Subaru because he realizes that Subaru has no actual interest in the sword and does not want to facilitate that kind of self-destruction. Wilhelm would have a fucking seizure if he learned that his beloved not-grandson was being forced to die repeatedly in order to keep his loved ones safe. And he’d probably have a really horrible reaction to the idea that some of those loved ones were straight up RESPONSIBLE for some of those deaths. This is the man who spent 14 years hunting the White Whale, he’s second only to Otto when it comes to revenge schemes (and even then it’s debatable who comes out on top over there).

Ferris, though, gets it hands-DOWN the worst. First reason is that the fact that he would almost certainly have the absolute worst reaction to the PREMISE of Return By Death out of the entire cast (due to his strong value of life and pride as a healer) is — often completely glossed over. This is the same guy who grieved suicidal Witch Cultists, was referenced as one of the two bleeding hearts of the Witch Cult elimination squad (the other being Subaru), who (in the LN) had what sure looks like a breakdown at the idea that Subaru wanted to die during that one Arc 3 loop where he went into shock, to the point where Crusch had to step in and speak (even joke) on his behalf as he basically sat in the corner with his head in his hands, cursing Subaru for not valuing his own life. If Ferris ever finds out about RBD he’s gonna fucking kill himself. But then, on top of that, he so often gets reduced to this — purely antagonistic force that just hates Subaru for no reason, who needs to learn to respect Subaru as a hero for his sacrifices, in a way that just — not only is kinda mean spirited, but completely glosses over some of the most fascinating parts of his character.

Also — I feel like a lot of these fics have the characters reacting like Subaru is an anime character to them rather than their friend, if that makes sense. Like, some of the reactions we see end up being like…the typical fan reaction to scenes? Instead of how someone would react if that were a Real Person up there doing that shit. Rem, in particular, is cut WAAAAY too much slack in most react fics, with everyone pretty much losing their anger towards her after hearing her tragic backstory and then glossing over everything she does in Memory Snow and Arc 3 with “Hah, that’s cute.” Like — I’m sorry, I think there should be a bit of a reaction to the revelation that the person who tortured Subaru for HOURS on end spent the next month sneaking into his room to watch him while he slept, following him around constantly, and enabling all of his bad behavior (which is now very obviously just a collection of trauma responses) like the world’s most dedicated Yes man (with the singular exception being the “From Zero” speech). Also, so much of what she does to him pre-Gluttony is just — horrible? And would be seen as such by the other characters, who do not have the same sense of naïveté/love of waifus/lack of self-preservation instincts that Subaru does to prevent him from seeing Rem for the danger that she is.

And well — I don’t think there’s enough consideration given to the fact that, most of the time, these characters already know how things are going to end, since they have their own memories to use for reference. Most of the time, they already KNOW whether Subaru is gonna survive or not, and that should impact how they respond to what they see next.

[semi-imaginary-place]

I was thinking about how the girls in Naruto might have progressed as ninja if they'd ever been given actual development.

Ino would make an excellent spy. She's mental ninjutsu oriented, and she's people oriented. She's the gossip queen, she knows everything about anyone. I can so easily see her as an espionage master going under deep cover to do what she does best, knowing other people's business. Super glam spy fits her vibes, she deserves it. The anime suggests an alternate path as she has a filler arc where she apprentices under Tsunade and that's as a mental health specialist. This doesn't fit her quite as well but I do like the idea of her and Sakura working together given how important their rivalry is to each other in the manga.

Sakura was introduced as having excellent potential in genjustsu, and then nothing was done with this. Sasuke became the genjutsu user and Sakura the taijutsu user and this could have been interesting since this is the opposite of their initial introduction but again nothing was done with this. Building off her taijutsu and being able to focus her chakra to a point for super powered attacks, I think Sakura deserves to wield a giant axe, she has one in several of Kishimoto's illustrations. Next would be her to develop her genjutsu potential, Sakura's strength's are her control and intelligence and I'd like to see her fully use those skills. Additionally the manga and characters themselves draw strong parallels between Sasuke and Kakashi as the geniuses of their teams. The parallel that is missed is that Sakura and Kakashi are both people without plot-breakingly powerful kekkai genkai with high intelligence, excellent chakra control, but mediocre chakra pools, and this really could have been explored more. One of the problems Naruto has is that healer is treated as a women's profession, with Sakura its rather hard to avoid however as the manga sets up a strong parallel between the sannin trio and Team 7. One option would be for Sakura not to use her medical knowledge for healing but instead like Kabuto for assassination and special operations. Of Team 7 Sakura is the most suited for ANBU, Naruto is just out of consideration completely and Sasuke has shown himself to be just as stupid and reckless as Naruto. Sakura in Anbu would also further drive the similarities between her and Kakashi.

When will someone remember that Tenten exists. I don't see her 700 epilogue retirement to run a weapon shop necessarily bad. Not everyone has to be a ninja, the problem is when it's always the women who retire from fighting. As a ninja though I think Tenten deserves more swords, like Killer B level or more swords. Tenten's strengths are in her physical abilities and weapon versatility, so she should be able to always pull out the weapon type that would work best against any opponent. I love to see her be a primarily physical fighter this would be my first pick for her, but another option would be to lean more into the sealing scroll side of thing so not just weapons but tools and traps, make Tenten a saboteur.

Hinata, oh Hinata, she deserves so much better. I can see more or less two paths for her. First would be to quit being a ninja, it could work for her. Hinata never really seemed to want to be a ninja, it was always for something else, her clan, Naruto, her friends, but not quite herself. I can very easily her leaving the shinobi life all together, leave ninjas, leave the Hyuuga clan; Hinata deserves it, to lead her own life on her own terms. Hinata had such potential to be an interesting character and its a shame the manga never got into it. She's the eldest of the Hyuuga clan leader but she's overshadowed by both her cousin and her younger sister and ends up passed over for succession, like that is juicy. True growth for the Hyuuga would have been Neji succeeding his uncle as clan head but that's another post. If she stays a ninja I would have like to see come to terms that her clan's kinda bullshit in a lot of ways and what they think of her doesn't matter, becoming a shinobi because she wants that for herself. In line with this personal growth she fighting style should deviate from Hyuuga techniques, maybe she develops her own taijutsu style. Or who knows maybe she becomes a physical therapist between the ability to see chakra and affect it, magic acupuncture. Kurenai is similarly ignored in the manga, but with her mentorship, Hinata has the potential to become essentially a magekiller, specializing in countering and taking down genjutsu users.

I bring up the option of some of the girls retiring because some of the boys should have retired. Hinata should have gotten Choji's character arc, and Choji who hates fighting should have been allowed to quit fighting and run a successful bakery cafe business. Sai deserves to put shinobi life behind him and become a full time artist. Shikamaru starts out like he's going to quit but I'm actually quite fond of his character arc. Yamato is also wasted potential as former human experiment and child soldier, like Sai he should learn how to live in peace, maybe he becomes an architect. We don't see team Taka in chapter 700 but Juugo is so gentle I want a nice civilian life for him.

(idk about Temari I mostly just want her to keep girlbossing and beating people up. Mmm I do think she's make a better Kazekage than Gaara. Gaara is another one I could see quiting being a soldier.)

[tarotwitchy]

Root Chakra Pick-a-Card

For this PAC, I want to start my longtime project of launching a general reading that has the themes of Chakra development. And since we're talking about the Root Chakra, also called Muladhara, this reading will be talking about your confidence, security, stability, earth energy, and strength.

Choose the picture that calls to you the most.

Pile 1 ➡️ 2

Pile 3 ➡️ 4

Pile 1

Ace of Swords • 10 of Pentacles • King of Swords • 4 of Swords

This pile is very straightforward with its message. In order for you to feel secure and safe in your life, you would need to fight for what you believe in, no matter how many people seem to be against it. Yes, there is a difference between fighting for your beliefs and being outright stubborn. But this pile isn't talking about stubbornness. It's giving the impression that a lot of people seem to knock down your ideas from the get-go. People have the tendency to nip your ideas in the bud, and this tends to affect you tremendously. You can only take so much rejection and disapproval from the people you thought had your back.

But in spite of that, you are called by the Universe — especially by your Highest Self — that you should always be at your corner even when no one else seems to be there any longer. As long as you know you're not hurting anyone and you're not committing something that will put you in harm's way, you have all the right reasons to believe in yourself and in your own voice. Part of developing our Root Chakra is creativity. So, be as creative in spearheading and executing your ideas to fruition as you can. You have the Ace of Swords with the King of Swords in this reading. Wield the sword of wisdom that you've always had inside you, and everything else will follow.

•—•—•—•—•—•—•

Pile 2

7 of Pentacles • 3 of Pentacles • The Morning • 2 of Cups

For those of you who chose this pile, you may have been doing things in your life all by yourself most of the time. It could be your upbringing that conditioned you to think that you can only rely on yourself. But Pile 2, there is absolutely nothing wrong with collaborating with people! I can see a lot of people around you who have genuine intentions of helping you achieve that security you yearn for. Allowing people to help you whenever they can won't make you a weak person. On the contrary, it makes you a self-assured kind of person because it illustrates that your ego isn't so easily damaged by people lending their hand to you.

In addition, this reading is telling you that it's okay to let your guard down. Being able to connect with people is your key to success in securing your safety and stability. I know a lot of you are the type to want to strive all by yourselves. But the old adage proves wisely: "two pairs of hands are better than one." Moreover, the 2 of Cups is signifying that you may also find safety with a romantic partner. There is a high chance that being in a relationship will actually prove to be helpful for you, and that your partner will be the one to aid you through finding security in this life. It could mean that they're very protective of you, being the one to help you with financial matters, or even just being your rock and pillar when you need them to be.

•—•—•—•—•—•—•

Pile 3

9 of Cups • The Night • 3 of Cups • The Tower

With this pile, I can see that generosity is what will bring you safety, stability, and security in this lifetime. By not being so tight-fisted about your resources, you can invite a positive energy into your life; thus, encouraging a string of good fortune and good karma. As long as you're choosing the right people to give assistance and resources to, you're bound to receive some sort of reward for your generous efforts in uplifting other people who need a helping hand from you. In addition, you would have gained alliances and connections with people in their most vulnerable state. I believe that people will remember the good deeds you have done to them, and it will come to your advantage in time.

Speaking of that, when you've given help towards the right kind of people, they will never forget it. I believe that people will remember the good deeds you have done to them, and it will come to your advantage in time. In return, you can rest assured that when the moment comes that you are the one in need of help and assistance, you will have a plethora of people to ask from, and you shall become a part of the cycle of a positive give-and-take. With that, you'll actually be more secure that you think because you have people to back you up instead of bearing your burden alone.

•—•—•—•—•—•—•

Pile 4

The Hermit • 4 of Pentacles • Judgment • The Tower

Wow, out of all the piles, this one is the most blatant in its message, and the opposite of Pile 3. If you've chosen this pile, you need to be wise and frugal with your resources. You cannot be loose with your money, time, efforts, and energy if you want to be safe and secure in this lifetime. I can see how many people prowl around you, ready to take advantage of your kindness and good-hearted nature. You need to wisen up, Pile 4! Not everyone has good intentions for you, and there are people waiting to see you fall and fail so they can pick up the pieces for themselves instead of helping you.

To aid you in this matter, you need to choose your circles very prudently. You cannot afford to be in bad company as it is a waste of time, energy, and they might just take what they can from you in the name of "friendship." Do not be flashy with your wealth or earnings because people can smell that like blood in a pool full of sharks. Avoid distributing your resources to people unless you know they will absolutely pay you back. Just keep on hustling quietly, keep your head down, and make sure that you're mingling with the right crowds.

If you liked this reading, consider purchasing a personalized tarot reading from me! ✨

{masterlist}

Copyright © 2022 by TarotWitchy

[Do not repost, copy, or reword]

[olderthannetfic]

https://www.tumblr.com/olderthannetfic/729691227788820480/one-thing-that-comes-up-in-ace-discourse-that-is

Yeah, “anyone is allowed to say no to sex with literally anyone for any reason” is just a good baseline belief for anyone to have. There should be no confusion about that.

I think where people online can get weird about that is that this includes when people’s “reasons” are kind of shitty, e.g. they reject someone for their race or disability or weight or because they’re trans or whatever. But you’ve still gotta hold fast to that bigot’s right to say no, and not *just* because the person they’re rejecting isn’t going to have a good time with a bigot anyway. But because being forced or cajoled or socially pressured into having sex is evil, and body autonomy is paramount.

It’s like the similar argument people on here get weird about sometimes with abortion: you have to support the right of a pregnant person to abort because it’s a girl or because of the father’s race or because it has a particular disability or because they have the resources to take care of a kid but just don’t want to or because they just feel like it that day or whatever reason you “don’t like,” or you are not actually pro-choice. Similar to free speech, your belief in bodily autonomy is only actually that if you believe in it for reasons that you despise. If it’s not 100% the choice of the person with the body in question, then they don’t actually have bodily autonomy. If you support that autonomy, by definition that means you don’t get a vote when it’s someone else’s body.

So this likewise goes for if it’s “politically correct” for people with X identity to have/not have sex (or have/not have it with Y people) including for ace people to have or not have sex, or for allosexual people to reject asexual partners and vice versa. If you don’t believe people have an absolute right to reject someone for sex or dating, then you don’t support their autonomy. End of story. Your feelings about their decisions don’t matter.

It’s wild how many people on the left-wing corners of the Internet don’t get this. But there is so much pressure even offline for people in those circles to ignore their wants and needs under the guise of checking for how oppressive their standards are or are not. I have unfortunately known people whose whole dating lives seem to be based on exploiting their partners’ guilt over rejecting a trans person or ace person or POC and using that to encourage their partners to overlook their giant red flags. (This is not saying trans or ace people or POC are more likely to do that or something, I’m bringing those identities up because I’m thinking of some creepy individuals I know that have those identities and weaponize them. But it’s those individuals who are creepy, the identity is just their tool and if it wasn’t that it would be something else — but the idea in some left-wing spaces that some reasons for rejecting are less valid than others makes it easier for them to wield that tool and more effectively.)

Like, there are preferences people have that I privately think are pretty shitty. I’m a lesbian who has met other lesbians who say they won’t date bi women, for instance, and along with that I have yet to hear a reason *from them* for that preference that isn’t rooted in biphobia (and also often misogynistic slut-shaming), I can’t even think myself of a reason for that preference that wouldn’t be. There’s just no reason for *rejecting all bi women as romantic/sexual partners* if you’re into women, that isn’t based on some weird stereotypes or misconceptions about bi women or bisexuals/bisexuality more generally. But I still think those biphobic lesbians have the right to reject bi women. Because the idea that you are obligated to have sex/relationships you don’t want for the sake of “unlearning bigotry” is even more gross and disturbing!

--

[gofancyninjaworld]

There was a lot of complaints ant Saitama's breaking speech never making to the manga, but tbh even if the manga has a series of events that requires that to happen, I still don't want it to happen. Mostly bc what Saitama said is pretty hypocritical and doesn't make sense.

While I do give kudos that Saitama even admits he doesn't really have a concrete idea of what a "hero" should be... That doesn't give a vote of confidence considering he's um. Literally the most powerful hero alive. Kinda hard to believe in someone who doesn't even know if they're doing the right thing while wielding immeasurable power. He pretty much, well, dodged the question and never really bothered to shoulder the responsibility to figure out what kind of hero really wants to be.

Another is his "serious" hero hobby and Garou's "compromised" monster hobby, and the reason why he'll always win is bc he never half-assed his hobby. While he's right not to lower the hurdle before the goal... But the reason why opm more or less has a plot to begin with is because Saitama is half-assing his heroism. He barely takes anything seriously. Like, yes he never half-assed his training to be the strongest and while he's one of the more moral heroes out there he wasn't the best for a reason.

And tbh I'm really satisfied to how 166-169 played out. In the end, what the manga shows us is that they both have naive mindsets. Believing Absolute Evil would bring absolute world peace, believing heroes would always be on time and save the day — only to have reality crashing hard that for Garou to achieve Absolute Evil means people he cares about will in fact die and that Saitama's complacency and invulnerability means it's not him facing the consequences, but everyone else fatally paying that price. it just shows the perfect image that Garou and Saitama are not so different — Garou is a poor villain, Saitama is a poor hero, and it's bc of those flaws, despite them wielding incomprehensible, godly power, they both meet in the middle ground as humans. Which further reinforces ONE's intention to create Garou as the anti-Saitama.

An old, old comment that has aged like fine wine.

There's a question Garou asks Saitama in the webcomic that the latter never answers -- and really should. 'You're strong, but so what?' His questioning whether the mere fact of Saitama being stronger than anyone gave him any moral authority is one that desperately needs to be addressed in the webcomic. So far, so bad.

I really like that the manga has started to look at that question. The Japanese idiom Saitama used when looking at the carnage Cosmic Fear Garou had wrought was his being pierced by realisation (h/t @koumbaya). As if a spear had been thrown through his very soul.

It answered the question he'd been asking himself ever since the Superfight that he'd forgotten something important. In that moment, it came to him just how shallow he'd been for fretting over not learning new moves or finding tough fights. How irresponsible it'd been for him to forget that just because Garou was no threat to him, the same did not hold for others. He had become a hero so that when people were in trouble, he could be there to help them, and instead, little by little, he'd come to prioritise having a good time.

I love how the denouement of the arc has Garou and Saitama understand and enact what it is to be a hero. Garou puts aside his pride to ask for help and heroically sacrifices his life to teach Saitama how to go to the past, Saitama saves everyone who needs his help, *including* Garou.

I love how this fits into the structure of the bigger story, with King having challenged Saitama over this very notion. It's an important question. A hero may need to be strong, but how does that translate into morality? What gives a hero the right to say 'this is unacceptable and I must stop it?'

Of course, there's the small problem of Saitama having forgotten what happened. Which makes me think: whether he wants to or not, Genos has a responsibility to ensure Saitama learns those hard-won lessons without the rest of the world paying for it first.

Final thing: Garou not being left as a foil to Saitama is the best thing of all. He hasn't received a pat answer and been sent into exile to do no more evil. He's getting to struggle with his ideas, to try to forge them into a coherent and workable way forward, and it's good to see him being his own person.