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unratedmagazine · 2 years ago

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Styx, Loverboy and REQ Speedwagon tour, classic rock like this never ever gets old.

LOVERBOY, REO Speedwagon AND STYX - FREEDOM MORTGAGE PAVILION AT CAMDEN NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 13, 2022 BY: Steve Trager https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyN-BS8Ce-E Many of us music fans have relished in our youth surrounding the decades of the eighties with many of the bands we grew up listening to from the likes of Vinyl to even that road trip cassette that has long seen its shelf life surpass a milestone of being out played. The days of MTV and its blissful memories of videos that made plenty of us hungry to see live bands as kids. Much of our musical fascination between lyrics and melodies have intertwined tightly among bands that many say are not relevant of today, yet they still are cranking out new CD’S on a yearly basis even if we sometimes still think we admire them for only their hit makers way back in the day that still shines brighter than hundreds of songs of today. Popularity is just one side of every coin in rock and roll and growing up listing to some debut record for the first time was like a mind blowing experience enough to still want to see every classic rock band still selling out seats no matter the trek to catch a live show. While we waited for more than two plus years for some of our greatest bands to come around and celebrate music and its finest gift of life to anyone who lived for live music, the summer of 2022 has been nothing short of stellar with shows etched in every block filling up of faster than a things to do list it became quite clear that music was alive and well and ready to be unveiled. If one band separately wouldn’t fix your need for arena rock them let’s put three on the same stage and bring the party to the stage like it’s 1985 all over again and that’s exactly what thousands certainly shared with the likes of Canadian Rockers LOVERBOY along side of a revolving co headliner set with STYX and REO SPEEDWAGON recently as part of the Live and Un-zoomed Tour that set the tone for a great evening at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in the back yards of Camden New Jersey.

LOVERBOY (credit: Steve Trager) Opening the show LOVERBOY wasted no time pulling out several hits dating as far back as their debut album. In their hay day as some say I was way too young to see this band when they were selling out arenas by themselves but can remember collecting some amazing records of one of rocks best imports from the shores of Canada. LOVERBOY (credit: Steve Trager) to see gallery press play. With a ton of hits and the magic moments that truly captivated this band from day one LOVERBOY could have piled in a few more of those number one’s back in the day that made rock radio speakers boom with but the three chart toppers were “Lucky Ones”, “Queens of the Broken Hearts” and “The Kid is Hot Tonight” rounding out a great eight songs. Mike Reno’s voice still as sharp as ever and still sounds like the first song I heard “Turn Me Loose” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsgBpsNPQ50 The entire original lineup still brings the heat with everyone’s favorite like its Friday night we all are “Working for the Weekend” one of the biggest hits of their set certain sent chills through the air. Having to admit of never ever seeing them live other than through the power of YouTube Concerts and videos, it was nothing short of great to finally check off a band as a kid now saying I’ve seen LOVERBOY for the first time and hopes it won’t be the last.

REO SPEEDWAGON (credit: Steve Trager) I absolutely love quick change over’s, and the blue backdrop rolls down and says REO SPEEDWAGON in bold letters, lights flashing and then the siren sounds, and the show gets going once again with one of rock’s most beloved bands of the eighties. While the set list consisted of all the favorites and those power ballads like “Keep on Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling” were the highlights of the evening yet songs like “Riding The Storm Out” and “Roll with the Changes” still bring the band to their finest degree during their recent show in Camden NJ. You might think bands that get old lose the ability to carry their weight with every single song ever written well front man Kevin Cronin delivers the goods at the ripe age of 70, nothing slows this guy down still running around the stage and performing like he is still in his twenties. REO has never disappointed with their captivating live show experiences time after time. REO SPEEDWAGON (credit: Steve Trager) to view gallery press play Just knowing they have released a bunch of new material but never once snuck in a new song and made you think is this one I never heard? Well honestly I would rather hear the older songs that made them an elite arena rock band in the first place then sitting through a seventy-five minute set of a few hits and a bunch of songs from CD’S released several years back.

STYX (credit: Steve Trager) It wouldn’t have mattered if either band closed the show but with a co-headliner set from each band each night taking turns isn’t an option and with STYX closing out the Live and Unzoomed Tour was nothing short of spectacular and are currently a six piece band with an proud new addition on backing vocals and guitar Will Evankovich who also produced and played on the bands Newest CD entitled Crash of The Crown. With an all new stage production and a brilliant display of lights, STYX opened their set with “Fight for Our Lives” from 2021’s Crash of The Crown roaring right into “Blue Collar Man” from 1978’s Pieces of Eight. While Styx still continues to release new material hand over fist, we come to expect to hear some new songs tossed to round out the set list that featured Will Evankovich on lead guitar. STYX (credit: Steve Trager) to view gallery press play “Light Up”, “Sound the Alarm”, and “Crash the Crown”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNoG4U7QiVc It’s definitely been about a solid ten years since STYX played the east coast then again been a while since we all had a taste in live music since 2020, and that being in the rear-view mirror, it is a tremendous experience to be in that live mood setting with a great band we all loved and grew up with from the seventies right on through to today. Many of the timeless favorites still a big part of their set list “The Grand Illusion” and “Lady” from 1973’s release of Styx II and those two gems never sounded better this time around with all the harmonies on backing vocals. Throughout this entire show not just with STYX closing the show and with band mates REO SPEEDWAGON sharing the stage with Canadian rockers LOVERBOY bring back the youthful sounds of our yesterdays making our music fantasies come back to life with all the greatness this triple band tour had to offer, great music, fun times with friends and not to mention a stage production that was a visual spectacle. One thing is for sure, classic rock like this never ever gets old no matter how many times you can see a band perform live it’s like the first time all over again! Read the full article

#concertreview #LOVERBOY #REOSpeedwagon #Styx #UnRatedMagazine #LiveMusic #ConcertReview

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thekuroiookami · 8 years ago

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KnB (Akashi x Reader) - The Queen’s Gambit - Part 10 Final

In the not too distant future.

It was a truth not quite universally acknowledged that a wedding was one of the most stressful events in one’s life. And if you were Akashi Seijuro, heir to a distinguished family and friend to some of the most deranged basketball players in the country, the stress went up exponentially. For not the first time, he wondered why he didn’t just disown them all.

“With friends like these, who needs enemies?” Akashi’s eyes slid sideways at Kuroko’s soft words. “Is what you’re probably thinking, right, Akashi-kun?”

“Something like that,” he admitted. “More importantly, I was thinking we should separate Midorima and Mibuchi before they slaughter each other. I understand it is difficult to get bloodstains out of the carpet.”

Kuroko looked across the low coffee table around which they were clustered. The apartment you shared with Akashi was decorated in warm pastels, and it would indeed be a pity to destroy its cosiness with a double murder. He watched in resigned sympathy as Aomine lounged on the couch, head tipped over the edge in boredom. The nation’s most talented power forward was on the verge of falling asleep.

Midorima pushed his glasses up, sounding at the end of his rope. “This is not a position to be taken lightly, nanodayo. Besides, if we were to go by the level of closeness, I have known Akashi for longer than you have.”

Reo scowled at the reminder. “Most of which time was spent in medical school. Also, if I let you be the best man, who knows what horrifying schemes you might come up with. Sei-chan might be left holding a tortoise instead of a wedding ring!”

“It was one time and an especially bad day for Cancers, nanodayo!” Well, Midorima’s rope had never been that long to begin with.

“Further,” Mibuchi held up a finger like a lawyer, “I do not trust your colour sense. If you had any, you would have never joined a school with orange jerseys.”

Kise foolishly tried to play peacemaker just before Midorima lunged across the table at Reo’s throat. “Now, now. Shouldn’t the person who’s getting married decide their best man?”

Akashi gave the blond model a chilling look when the quarrelling pair looked expectantly at him. Internally, he went through a range of possible outcomes from risking Midorima’s eccentricities to just eloping with you in the dead of the night. He finally decided on a course of action.

All eyes turned to him in anticipation when he set down his cup. “Then, I’d like you to be my best man, Kuroko.”

Huge blue eyes blinked in surprise. Midorima and Mibuchi were frozen stiff. “Are you sure, Akashi-kun?”

Akashi smiled in his trademark dangerously pleasant manner. It was the one he reserved for insolent subordinates before hell was unleashed on them. “Yes, and I’m sure _____ would agree. If it is not troublesome, of course.”

Suddenly no one wanted to disagree with anything he said anymore. Kuroko smiled, eyes soft. “I shall do my best, Akashi-kun.” Before all the light was sucked out of the room by the darkness hovering over two dejected people, he spoke again. “Of course, I will need Mibuchi-san and Midorima-kun’s help, since I cannot do it all alone.”

Midorima perked up slightly at this. Reo looked at Kuroko with glistening eyes. “Really, Kuroko-kun?”

He nodded in reply. “Mibuchi-san will need to help me pick colours, since I’ve never done this before. And Midorima-kun, there’s a bachelor party that needs planning.”

Akashi silently thanked whatever deities resided in the heavens for the miracle that was Kuroko. He looked over when Aomine stifled a yawn and mumbled. “So when are you getting hitched anyway?”

“Two months from now, in May. I see you’re attentive as always, Aomine.”

The dirty look Aomine shot back in response went unnoticed by the group as the front door opened with a click. You walked in, dropping your keys in a bowl and shrugging off your jacket.

“I’m home. Kiku, where are you?” Kuroko flinched as the orange cat, which had been peacefully dozing in his lap, abruptly abandoned him.

You scooped the purring bundle up and walked into the living room. Somehow you were not surprised by the overwhelming male presence crowding your house. “Oh, Sei, you’re early. There’s so many people! Hello, everyone. Did I interrupt something?”

Kise gave you his million-dollar grin. “Yuricchi, welcome back. We were just talking about the wedding plans. Congratulations, by the way!”

“Thank you, Kise-kun. I’m going to get some tea. Would anyone like anything to drink?”

There was a chorus of negative answers. Akashi joined in you in the kitchen, taking advantage of the relative privacy to kiss your nose. You wrapped your arms around his waist, breathing in his familiar scent.

“Welcome back,” he murmured. “How was your day?”

“Not too bad. I managed to prevent the copywriter from assaulting the accountant. We’re going to have to change their desks. And the editorial team is doing better. How about you?”

“Well,” he glanced significantly at the squabbling group in the other room, “you could say I stopped some bloodshed as well.”

You bit back a smile. “I adore Midorima-kun and Mibuchi-senpai, but they can be a bit…much.”

“Indeed. It took a while for me to convince them that the wedding could be a mix of modern and traditional, and after that, they began the argument about who would make a better organizer. I confess I’m glad to leave it to Kuroko.”

You added boiling water to the teapot and waited for it to steep. “I see there’s more than one benefit to being CEO, other than the absurdly high salary. Everyone just listens to you.”

“I don’t understand why you are the only one immune to this, though. I might be making a terrible mistake, marrying the one person who can resist me.” He trailed a finger along your cheekbone.

“Isn’t it good strategy to keep your enemies close? Besides, I thought you were always right. You don’t make mistakes.” You followed Akashi out of the kitchen, cradling a warm mug in your hands.

You curled up on the couch to watch the motley crew of wedding planners. Akashi sat down at your side, conveniently providing a shoulder for you to rest your head on. The conversation had wandered from table settings to current gossip.

As usual, it was Kise that brought up the topic. “Ne, ne, speaking of getting married, does anyone know when Kagamicchi will propose to Yuzurucchi? It’s about time he did.”

Kuroko was thoughtful. “He said something about needing to make it perfect.”

“It’s not like she’d refuse him,” you said. “I know her and she obviously likes him. Plus, they’ve been together for a while now.”

Aomine rolled his eyes. “This is Bakagami we’re talking about. He’s not exactly the brightest bulb in the lot. It’ll take him a while to work up to it.”

Midorima huffed in disbelief. “Wise words coming from the person who is well-known for commitment issues. Just last week the tabloid ran an article about the five women you dated in three months.”

The alleged playboy raised an eyebrow. “Why, Midorima, I didn’t know you were so interested in my life.”

“Oha-Asa publishes weekly horoscopes in the paper, nanodayo.”

Mibuchi looked very interested in the subject. “As the other person who appears in magazines a lot, do you have a significant other, Kise-kun?”

The blonde pouted. “I wish I did, but no. My schedule keeps me too busy to meet anyone outside of work, and I haven’t met anyone interesting anyway. I don’t want a relationship that’s not serious, but none of the people I’ve met so far have inspired any strong feelings.”

You smiled reassuringly at Kise. “I’m sure you’ll find the right person soon.”

Kuroko gave an encouraging nod. “That’s right, Kise-kun. There must be someone out there who can see past your narcissism.”

“KUROKOCCHI!”

Akashi intervened. “It’s about time everyone headed home. I’m sure there are things you need to be doing. Thank you for taking time out of your day.”

One by one, they stretched out to their full heights, and said their goodbyes. Kise was the last to leave, and you shut the door after him with a sigh. You turned back to find Akashi speaking on the phone with a vaguely strained expression.

“Yes, I’ll look at the report tomorrow…all of them, including the quarterly. Tell them to hold off on the audit until the expenses have been tallied. No, I don’t want the meeting pushed back. Right, tomorrow it is.”

You touched his shoulder as the call ended. “Do you have to leave early again?”

“Unfortunately, yes. I hate to leave you alone, but they’re still adjusting to the restructuring, so it will be like this for a while.” He brushed a thumb over your lips in apology.

You cradled his palm to your cheek. “It’s alright. I have Kiku for company while you’re gone.”

The cat meowed in agreement, making the both of you smile. Akashi’s attention returned to you when you continued. “Just make it up during the honeymoon.”

His arm hitched you closer. “I certainly will. I intend to take my time exploring every inch of your skin.” His hand tightened over your hip, burning through your clothes. “You will be mine in every way that matters. Are you prepared?”

“Of course. Though I won’t make it easy on you.” You looked up at him through your lashes.

His head tilted up, eyes widened in golden anticipation. “I hope you don’t. Defiance will only make it more interesting.”

You leaned against him, energy suddenly depleted. “This wedding can’t get here fast enough.”

“I agree. Now to bed, we have a long day tomorrow.”

You fell asleep to thoughts of white sheets against crimson hair and a blissful day where you could wake up with no worries.

XXX

“So remind me again,” said Riko, swirling the contents of her glass, “what happens during girls’ night out?”

Your best friend threw back a shot of electric blue liquid and winced. “Technically,” Reina pointed out, “it’s a bachelorette party.”

Kagami’s girlfriend, fondly nicknamed Yuzuru, raised an eyebrow. “Technically, the bride has been dating Akashi-kun for ages, and was never a bachelorette to begin with.”

Momoi idly twirled a lock of her hair, giving the silver-haired bartender a speculative glance. “I thought it was based on a definition of virginity, not relationship status.”

You put an end to that inevitably disturbing line of conversation. “I think, Riko-san, the idea is to just let loose and enjoy ourselves. Alcohol is usually a catalyst.”

Riko lifted her gin and tonic in illustration. “We’re off to a good start then.”

Reina clapped her hands together. “That’s right! You know in those movies from America, when a group of girls goes out to celebrate, they usually do three things – drink, dance and ogle semi-naked men.”

“I don’t think the last one is a possibility for us,” said Momoi. “It presumes semi-naked men are (a) available and (b) something we’re interested in.”

“We could always ask the guys to play basketball shirtless.” Yuzuru shrugged unrepentantly.

“That idea is appealing, but requires too much organization.” You looked at the dance floor as music began pulsating out of the speakers. “Dancing just became an option though.”

Everyone looked at each other for a moment. “Why not.”

You swallowed the dregs of your mojito, savouring the slight burn, and followed Reina into the crowd.

…

Meanwhile in Kagami’s apartment.

The silence was breathtakingly awkward. Without Kuroko as a common link, or Takao’s cheer oiling the cogs of interaction, no one had anything to say to anyone else. Kagami drew a deep breath.

“So tell me again,” he started, “why I’m supposed to cook for you useless lot just because the girls are out?”

“Because you have no choice,” Murasakibara supplied helpfully. Kagami gritted his teeth at the nonchalance and stirred harder.

Midorima looked up from his book. “I hear footsteps, nanodayo. Someone is here.”

Akashi opened the front door to let in an exuberant Kise and a grumpy Aomine. The latter immediately cheered up when the smell of soup wafted down the hall.

“Ohhhhh, Bakagami is cooking like an obedient wife. It’s a good day.”

“Shut up, Ahomine,” growled the chef. “I’ll pour this down the back of your neck.”

Dinner also continued in something like near silence, only broken by the sounds of munching and the occasional exclamation from Kise. Eventually, he had enough and barked in frustration.

“Ok, I’ve had enough. Let’s play basketball!”

Akashi frowned. “It’s dark out and there are no indoor courts nearby. Also, we just finished eating.”

“Then we play the video-game version! Kagamicchi, bring out the console!”

What started out as a friendly NBA 2k17 match quickly deteriorated into an all-out war involving various Smash Bros characters. The screen was a chaotic mess of flailing figures, but Akashi mysteriously kept winning despite the mayhem. No one could wrap their minds around Murasakibara’s avatar choice until Kise asked him.

“Princess Peach? Because it sounds like a dessert.”

Akashi was saved from hearing Aomine’s responding dirty joke when his phone buzzed with a text. If you were inebriated, it didn’t show in the message.

____: Hey. Just checking in. Everything’s fine, though everyone is a bit tipsy. How’s it going?

Seijuro: We’re doing okay. Be sure to give me a call when you’re done. I’ll come pick you up.

____: Will do. See you later.

Kagami rumbled in question when Akashi finished typing out his reply. “Was that from Yuri-san? Are they alright?”

“They’re fine. Possibly having a bit too much fun from the sound of it.”

Kise emitted a wistful sigh. “I’m jealous. Wonder what they’re doing right now?”

…

Back at a certain club.

Cards Against Humanity was a problematic experience at the best of times, so being slightly drunk while playing made it about a hundred times worse. You didn’t think you could laugh anymore without breaking a rib.

Reina read the latest question card out loud. “When Pharaoh remained unmoved, Moses called down a plague of [dash]. No need to try everyone, I win. The answer is endless ninjas.”

“Pfft. Okay, I concede, that one’s yours.” Yuzuru shook her head, the light catching on her glossy hair.

Riko picked up the next question. “To reach a wider audience, the museum has a new interactive exhibit on [dash]. Hmm, I’m gonna go with…ghosts.”

“No fun. I prefer this one – extremely tight pants. Specifically, leather pants.” Momoi set down her card triumphantly.

You pursed your lips. “This is a tough choice. I don’t think it’s possible to have an exhibit on wifely duties, so I’ll go with Satsuki-san.”

Yuzuru pulled another card from the deck. “Then try this one. Instead of coal, Santa now gives bad children what?”

“A cooler full of organs,” you said without missing a beat.

Reina wrinkled her nose. “Is that why he wears red? Eww.”

Momoi excused herself to the washroom while the rest of you sat back to chat about the evening so far.

“This has been surprisingly fun. We should do it again sometime.” Riko clinked her glass with Yuzuru in camaraderie.

Reina grinned, eyes promising mischief. “Sure. If it means I get to see Riko-san doing that wave thing again, I’m all for it.”

The brunette flushed. “Hey, I wasn’t the one hanging off the pole. Speaking of which, where is Momoi?”

Her name made you sigh. “I hope the next time we meet, it’s for Satsuki-san’s party. We should really find her someone to marry.”

Yuzuru nodded in sympathy. “I agree, she seems so lonely lately. I thought it would be Aomine-kun, but if it hasn’t happened till now, it never will. Does she even have a type?”

Riko’s bangles jingled as she tapped a finger in thought. “Used to be Kuroko, but no one knows anymore.”

Reina caught everyone’s attention with the hushed reverence of her voice. “Well, I may have found someone. There’s no way this guy won’t catch her eye.”

There was a collective intake of breath as everyone saw who Reina was looking at. It looked like male perfection on earth. “Oh my,” breathed Yuzuru. “Who is that?”

You wanted to know as well. Somehow, you almost felt disloyal looking at this man, with his raven hair, sharp grey eyes and beautifully toned body. His looks were elevated from moderately attractive to eye-catching by the charisma that rolled off him in waves. “He is certainly doing justice to that shirt. Just look at those arms.”

Riko gave you a significant look. You smiled back. “I’m engaged, Riko-san, not blind.”

She gazed at him a bit longer and agreed. “He does have rather high specs.”

Reina suddenly hissed at the group. “He’s heading this way! Where is Momoi-san when you’re trying to set her up?”

Yuzuru’s eyes widened as she saw the person accompanying the handsome stranger. “Is that…”

Momoi picked that moment to return to the table. “Sorry I took so long. What is everyone- Oh my goodness, Nijimura-senpai, is that you?”

The table held their breath as the young man’s gaze flickered over Momoi and lightened in recognition. Himuro, who had been tagging along, smiled at your group as if these run-ins happened every day.

“Momoi? Long time no see.” Nijimura greeted her with easy familiarity, ruffling her strawberry locks.

“Sheesh, don’t do that, senpai! I’m too old for that kind of thing. I’m so surprised though, running into you here.”

He glanced at the table, taking in the company and the way everyone was dressed. “Just relaxing with Himuro. Are you out with your friends?”

You broke out of the oblivion induced by the abundance of male beauty when Momoi waved in your direction. She sounded extremely excited. “Senpai, we’re having a bachelorette party! ____-san here is engaged to be married to Akashi-kun! Isn’t that great?”

Nijimura looked like a chest of drawers had fallen onto him. “Is Akashi old enough for that?” There was a resounding silence all around. Even Himuro gave him a disbelieving look.

You cleared your throat and stood up to greet Teiko’s old captain. “It’s an honor to meet you, Nijimura-san. Seijuro has told me a lot about you.”

“I can see why,” Yuzuru murmured. You had to bite your cheek to keep from laughing.

Nijimura still looked the father who hadn’t quite realized his children weren’t children any more. “Err, you too, ____-san. When is the ceremony?”

“In ten days. If you can attend, please do. I’m sure Seijuro would be very happy to see you. You too, Himuro-san.”

Tatsuya’s answering smile was blinding. Reina rubbed her eyes in consternation. “Of course, we would be happy to attend. Isn’t that right, Shuu?”

Nijimura nodded hesitantly. Momoi squealed in delight. “Tetsu-kun and the rest will be so happy! Ah, are we keeping you? Please don’t worry about us, go ahead.”

With a nod, the pair walked away, leaving a trail of glazed expressions in their wake. The girls at the table watched them go with thoughtful expressions.

Riko spoke first. “He’s gay, isn’t he?”

Yuzuru nodded. “I’m pretty sure he is.”

Reina sighed. “What a waste. I want to say he’s public property, but there’s no competing if it’s Himuro-san.”

You looked sadly at Momoi. “Satsuki-san, you have no luck.”

“Eh? What does that mean?”

XXX

On the morning of your wedding, the heavens smiled down on the earth like they were pleased with the prospect of your marriage. The sky was a perfect cornflower blue, the sun gently warm, and there wasn’t a single grey cloud to be seen. That was why it was all the more ironic that you were wearing the most uncomfortable outfit you’d ever worn.

“Careful,” murmured Mitsue-san. “If you move, the obi will come undone.”

You gave Akashi’s stoic housekeeper a long look. As it was, you felt like a pillow that had been trussed up. You were wearing three layers already, with the padding, the underdress and the overcoat, with yet another layer of kimono to go. If you didn’t shift occasionally, your arm would fall asleep.

“I can’t imagine the obi would go anywhere,” you said dryly, “given how the cords are cutting into me.”

She gave you a look that was sympathetic and admonishing at the same time. “Such is the price of having a traditional wedding, ojou-sama.”

You frowned. “Please don’t call me that. I hardly deserve such a title. And some people would have gotten very upset if there hadn’t been a Shinto ceremony.”

There was a ghost of a smile on her lips. “I would suggest you accustom yourself to being addressed as such, because you will be hearing yourself called _____-sama for the foreseeable future. One must respect the lady of the house, after all.”

You resisted the urge to crush your folding fan. “Mitsue-san, this is really not helping with the stress. I’m already worried about forgetting a step in the ceremony while hawk-eyed Akashi family members watch.”

A tug at your waist made you exhale sharply. The older woman stood back and surveyed the bow critically. “The obi is done. Now for the uchikake. Please hold your arms out.”

You resigned yourself as an elaborately embroidered, heavy white coat was draped over you. When they finished the final touches and stepped away, you took a moment to look at yourself in the mirror. The person who looked back at you was a vision of pearlescent fabric, the white kimono glowing. The deceptively expensive overcoat had white cranes flying across the back, with gold accents outlining flowers. The only spots of colour came from the paint on your lips and the red lining of the kimono, which flashed as you walked. The white hood hid the upturned flare of the wig and the golden ornaments decorating it. All in all, it made for a surreal experience.

“The young master will be waiting for you. Shall we go, ojou-sama?” Mitsue-san looked strangely proud as you stood there in bridal white.

You shut your eyes for a second, centring yourself. Then, opening them again, you nodded and allowed yourself to be escorted out of the dressing room. On the way downstairs, you were so focused on not falling over that you didn’t notice Akashi until he spoke.

“_____,” his voice sounding calm as ever, “you look beautiful.”

You looked up at him, finally seeing him for the first time that day. He looked magnificently composed, dressed in the traditional dark haori and hakama. His hair looked like fire against the night sky and his eyes glowed with a soft emotion you couldn’t name. You noticed his family crest glint off the back of his coat. If someone had come in yelling something about a samurai-era feudal lord, you would have immediately assumed Akashi was the subject.

“I would say you look better,” you replied with a smile, “and more comfortable.”

He held his hand out to steady you as assistants slipped on the sandals over your socks. His grip was firm and reassuring. “You will not have to bear with it for long, I promise.”

You tightened your fingers around his. “It’s alright. I can deal with this much after the fight we put up to get married.” Getting the Akashi family around to your side hadn’t been easy, so wearing a heavy kimono was the least you could do in compensation.

The wedding procession was a slow, solemn affair. Flutes played ancient tones and shrine maidens glided over the pebbled path as you walked from the temple gate. You watched the shadow of the red umbrella dip and bob over your feet. You remembered to bow to the priests when you entered the pavilion.

Most of the ceremony passed in a blur. You were vaguely aware of your family and Akashi’s watching with serious faces. You distantly registered the priest’s declaration to the gods and then the sankon no gi began. A thrice-filled cup of sake was handed to Akashi, who sipped from it three times, the motions elegant. Then the cup was handed to you. The process was repeated with two larger cups. Your world narrowed to Akashi’s fingers around the cup and the sweet burn of sake on your tongue.

Then you found yourself standing up to read the vow. Or more accurately, watch Akashi recite it. The already beautiful words were rendered even more poetic by Akashi’s melodic reading.

“On this great day,” he intoned, “before the great god, we are sincerely thankful for this ceremony. Going forward, we will love each other, trust one another, share the good times and the bad, and swear that this will be so throughout our lifetime.”

You felt your heart still for one immutable moment when he finished. “The husband, Akashi.”

“The wife, ____.” Thankfully your voice came out strong and clear. The shinzenshiki drew to a close with a prayer and an offering of a tamagushi branch. You felt the tension drain away from your shoulders as the elders took their turns sipping the sake. A touch at your wrist caught your attention.

“We’re almost through. Hold on a little longer.” He twined his hand with yours, hiding the movement with his sleeve.

Somehow the warmth of his skin made it real. You were married, and the person you loved more than life was with you. The realization made your chest tighten with shocked exhilaration. You looked at him with glittering eyes.

I’m married to Akashi Seijuro.

This thought was the one that dominated much later, as you exchanged rings in front of your friends. The heavy kimono was gone, replaced by a delicate ivory dress. Your hair was in a simple coronet braid, brightened by tiny white flowers and the hairpin that Akashi gave you. As you slid the golden band over his finger, you looked up to see Akashi watching you with a quiet happiness that warmed your chest. You felt his joy in the soft kiss he gave you, and responded with your own. You never wanted this feeling to end.

As always, Kise broke the spell with his jubilance. “CONGRATULATIONS, AKASHICCHI AND YURICCHI!”

Kuroko rubbed his temples disconsolately. “Kise-kun, you’re so loud. Are you trying to frighten them?”

Hayama snorted. “Some people never change.”

Takao grinned while Midorima humphed. Aomine spoke next. “I guess I should say congratulations. So, felicitations and all that. Don’t come out of the bedroom for a week.”

Kagami cringed. Yuzuru choked on a laugh and backed away. Momoi hit Aomine over the head with a glove, looking horrified. “Dai-chan, you just had to ruin it, didn’t you?”

Akashi hid a smile behind the sleeve of his dove grey tux. “Thank you for the sage advice, Aomine. Does anyone else want to contribute?”

You turned to look as Mibuchi approached, looking resplendent. “Sei-chan, many many congratulations. I’m so happy for you two! Also, if you want someone to spoil your kids, I’m available.” Nebuya’s eyes widened, as if he had never contemplated children before.

This elicited a warm smile from you. “Thank you. I’m sure you’d be a wonderful au- err, uncle, Mibuchi-senpai.”

Murasakibara glanced over his shoulder. “Oh, Muro-chin’s here. Does that mean we can have cake now?”

Himuro sauntered into the garden with a cheery Riko and curious Nijimura. Akashi’s attention instantly sharpened on the latter. He looked taken aback.

“Nijimura-san? You’re back in Japan?” All of the former Teiko team immediately stopped whatever they were doing to watch their old captain stride over. Kuroko’s eyes were huge, shining orbs.

The black-haired man smiled with easy familiarity. “Yo, it’s been a while. God, you’ve all grown up, haven’t you?”

There was a beat of silence and then Nijimura toppled over as several people launched themselves at him. You watched in fond amusement as the gathering exploded with questions, exclamations and flashbacks to the past. Reina tapped your shoulder, and took advantage of the chaos to give you a hug.

Her eyes shimmered with tears. “I hope you’re so happy you don’t know what do with it.”

You laughed, feeling a little close to crying yourself. “And I want you to do the same, so you can suffer with me.”

Eventually, the mayhem died down. After a cake had been demolished, some heart-warming speeches made, and general goodwill spread, you were finally alone at home with Akashi. You sank into the hot embrace of the bath with a groan of relief.

“That feels so good after the weight on my shoulders. I’d rather not do that again.”

“I don’t plan on letting you.”

There was a rustle of clothing from your left. You opened one eye to see Akashi slide into the water, muscles flexing as he leaned back. He held a hand out. “Come here.”

You shifted to sit with your back to his chest, fitting yourself into the cradle of his arms. Your head fell back onto his shoulder with a sigh of pleasure as he began working out the knots in your neck, fingers gentle but firm.

“Thank you, I didn’t realize how much I needed that.”

He smiled against the curve of your neck. “You deserve it after putting up with the endless stream of visitors today.”

Reminiscing about the wedding party made you laugh. “It was a strange day, but a good one too. Possibly the best.”

A string of thoughts made you lift your hand to examine the simple gold ring now adorning it. “Sometimes I can’t believe it. That we’re married now. It seems so unreal.”

Akashi wrapped his arms around you, his voice a low hum. “I understand. When I think of how I get to call you my wife and tell the world that you chose me, I feel like it must be a dream. It sounds too good to be true.”

You twisted a little to press a kiss to his cheek. “It is true, and I am going to call you husband from now on, among other things.” You dropped another kiss on his neck.

His eyes darkened to a predatory ruby and his fingers tightened on your hip. “I think it’s time I made good on some promises to my bride.”

Your breathing hitched as he slowly stroked higher up your leg, the other hand caressing just under the swell of your breast while his tongue flicked over your neck. Your hands clamped down on the edges of the tub as you suppressed a moan.

His voice was as even as ever when he nipped your ear in warning. “Now, ____, don’t hide in silence. Let me hear you.”

You took a breath before melding your lips with his in a long, fierce kiss. You were both a little breathless at the end of it. “Sei,” you said, voice husky, “take me to bed.”

He lifted you out of the water easily and kissed you again before responding. “As you command, my love.”

XXX

Bonus Story

“Otou-san! Okaa-san! Wake up, it’s time to play!”

You groaned and pulled the covers over your head. Akashi sighed next to you, but didn’t lift his head. Just as the lull of sleep had dragged you back in, you were startled to wakefulness again.

“Okaaaaa-sannnn. You promised we’d go riding today. Let’s go, let’s go!” The five year old boy with dark hair and crimson eyes bounced on his feet for emphasis.

“Sei,” you mumbled, “your son is awake. Do something.”

Akashi’s voice was rough with sleep. “I thought he was our son?”

“Before sunrise, he’s your son. Take responsibility.” You curled back into the pillow, trying to catch up on desperately needed sleep.

“Otou-san, should I sing the elephant song again to help you wake up? Zou-san, zou-san-“

You and Akashi sat up, fully awake. You gave the child a narrow-eyed look. “I wonder where you get your manipulativeness from, Kazu. It can’t be me.”

“What’s manipulativenesh?” Kazu blinked innocently.

Akashi picked the boy up and set him on the bed. “Something your mother has in spades.”

You slumped, too tired to retort. Kazu’s face scrunched up in concentration before he decided to abandon the topic. “So can we go now? Please?”

Akashi ruffled his son’s hair. “I know we said we’d go today, and we will, but” – he glanced at the clock –“ there’s still 19 hours left in the day, so let us sleep a bit longer, hmm? Okaa-san and I are still tired.”

Kazu pouted for a few seconds, but being the good-natured soul he was, finally gave in. “Okay. I won’t be able to go back to sleep though.”

You pulled his tiny warm body to yours, striped pyjamas and all. “Then just let me hug you for a while.” Within minutes, his breathing had evened out and he was fast asleep.

Akashi smiled at Kazu’s peaceful face. “It’s so hard to believe how energetic he can be when he’s awake.”

You huffed a laugh, eyes drifting shut. “Clearly we need to rethink his name. There’s nothing harmonious about Kazuhiko.”

He pulled the blankets over the three of you, cocooning you in warmth. “We can always hope.”

“Hmm. Love you, Sei.”

He laced his fingers with yours, careful not to disturb your child. “I love you both too.”

Author's Rambling

So that's it for the Queen's Gambit. For everyone who's stuck with it from the beginning, thank you so much. I am genuinely honoured by the encouragement you've given me. I hope I did justice to Aka-chin, given that I had no plan when I started this.

Story notes: I based my description of the wedding and the vow on this Youtube video. I had to think long and hard about what kind of ceremony the story needed, and I finally went with this because Akashi in traditional clothing is just bae. The other thing I wanted to say was - I accidentally seemed to have predicted the Akashi family symbol right? In this picture, Akashi is wearing a kimono with what looks like peonies... #conspiracytheory

The name Kazuhiko means first, harmonious prince. Also, wedding rings are exchanged somewhere at the end of the original ceremony, but plot demands.

Finally, comments and thoughts are much appreciated, especially since I'm still figuring out what I write well and what I don't. Until next time, folks.

#akashi x reader #i finally finished it #future au #marriage #shinto wedding #romance #fluff #oc #kiseki no sedai #that's all folks #so this is how it feels #just waiting for last game to come out

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