#ah........the classic akira look | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

jokertrap-ran · 3 months ago

Text

[スタオケ] La Corda d'Oro Starlight Orchestra Main Story Chapter 2-17 Translation

*Starlight Orchestra Masterlist *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Main story tag will be #Main Starlight

Seiji: “Mack the Knife”, a single that was made into a popular jazz classic by Louis Armstrong.

Seiji: The villains in the song are portrayed with sarcastic lyrics, but the way they live life is so carefree and unfettered that it's oddly warm. Comforting, even.

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Osakabe (Past): Are you an idiot? There was no need for you to go against the teacher too. Look, you got kicked out of the club.

Akira (Past): Shut up, I was mad. Isn't it normal to be angry over things like this?

Osakabe (Past): It's not something for you to get angry over.

Akira (Past): Ah, why don't we form a duo to perform together?

Osakabe (Past): Do you even know what you're saying? Haha, you really are a fool…

Akira: Perhaps neither of us has changed, even now…

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Audience: What a gentle melody… but I wonder why I feel like crying…?

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Boy: Wow… Those guys are really amazing!

Yasu: Kirigaya-san…

Tomoeda: I'd like to say much about how I can't believe President Osakabe is doing it with that guy, but…

Yasu: What a brilliant melody. The Starlight Orchestra's the best! Long live Joyo Technical High School!

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Seiji: We did it… Our best performance to date.

Akira: Well, of course. We have a brilliant team backing us.

⊳ Choice: Thank you…!

Akira: I could say the same to you too. Thank you, this is all because of you.

⊳ Choice: I'm so happy

Seiji: Come now, you're still before the guests. Wipe your tears away.

⊳ Choice: Look, everyone's smiling!

Akira: Yeah, even both the delinquents and the members of the Student Council have smiles on their faces. Everyone from Joyo Technical High School is a good person deep down.

Numahira: *Chuckles* Look at that grin on his face. He has his guard all the way down…

Numahira: Come, Busujima. It's our turn.

Busujima: …

Numahira: Hey, what are you spacing out for? Come on, get up. Hurry.

Busujima: …I can't…

Numahira: Huh? What are you talking about?

Busujima: I can't do it, Go-chan… I can't destroy them.

Busujima: It's my first time…. Hearing such a heart-wrenching melody…

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Akira: The concert's finally over. It really flew by just like that.

Seiji: It really did. Did you notice that Busujima from Oba Commercial High School was also there?

Akira: Anyone can be part of the audience. As long as they're here to enjoy the music, of course.

Akira: …

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Akira: …Say, what are your thoughts on joining the Starlight Orchestra to make an impact on the world?

Seiji: Wasn't the criteria to get a full house in the concert hall?

Akira: Come on, now you're just being mean. Surely you've seen just how enthusiastic the audience was today. That's just the start of it.

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Seiji: Well, it looks like you've already made your decision. I don't mind taking on the world either.

Seiji: The Student Council and your underlings seemed to have really hit it off too.

Seiji: Looks like we can leave Mito with no incidents now. Although…

Akira: (L/n)-san. Great timing. I was just about to go look for you.

Akira: Huh? Hashizume-sensei from the Mito Symphony Orchestra contacted you? The one who invited you to perform at that concert hall?

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Hashizume-sensei: Sorry about everything. I just heard about what happened.

Hashizume-sensei: It looks like we've forgotten about the purpose of having a Student Orchestra, a place where everyone can pursue their dreams.

Hashizume-sensei: Ahh, yes. There's no need to worry about the matter concerning Osakabe-kun.

Hashizume-sensei: I've already informed Shinomori-kun that under no circumstances will we ban him from participating in the Concours’ selection rounds.

Seiji: Haha… you really are a master at creating miracles.

Seiji: Look at that look of triumph on you. It's truly maddening that I can't turn down your expectations of me now.

Akira: Will you let me join the Starlight Orchestra — your ship of dreams?

Akira: Let's go to the ends of the world, together.

⊳ Choice: I've been waiting for you to say that

Seiji: I made this decision because of your abilities, so don't disappoint me, Concertmistress.

⊳ Choice: I'll be relying on you from now on

Akira: Same here. We'll be relying on each other from now on.

Akira: Let's take our music all the way to the top of this world. We're in your hands now, Concertmistress.

☆ ━━━━━━━ ∘◦♬Main Starlight♬◦∘ ━━━━━━━ ☆

Previous Part: (Chapter 2-16) Next Part: (Chapter 3-1)

#金色のコルダ #スターライトオーケストラ #スタオケ #Starlight Orchestra #Otome #Translations #Kiniro no Corda #La Corda d'Oro Starlight Orchestra #Main Starlight

6 notes · View notes

twilightmalachite · 2 years ago

Text

MIRAGE - The Most Beautiful Mirror in the World 1

Author: Akira

Characters: Yuuta, Shinobu

Translator: Mika Enstars

Proofers: Bella & feesh

"Wait, you're really neither of them de gozaru!? But I've never heard anything about them having an older brother…!?"

Season: Winter

Location: Downtown

Early January, the first year after the establishment of ES — Immediately following the SS…

Shinobu: (Nifufufu! I got it! It’s finally mine!)

(Volume three! Of an ultra rare manga—the lost classic that even superfans don't know of, “Snow White the Samurai”!)

(It’s not popular or a masterpiece, nor was it ever digitized, so it’s become a rather hidden gem of a manga…!)

(Even if it's not critically acclaimed, even if it's nothing more than a half-baked rip-off of Momotaro Samurai[1]… I still read half of it…!)

(I was so curious about how it ended though! It was quite expensive, but I’m glad I was able to get my hands on it and fulfill my wish!)

(And it’s all thanks to ES! I could have never afforded this last year, but after the result of the SS—)

(A special bonus was rewarded to units who participated in the main competition!)

(So, I had a small fortune to blow just now…!)

(I shouldn't waste money with the future so close at hand, but this is a necessary expense to become an even greater ninja idol de gozaru…!)

(Ah~, I can't wait to read it~! If I remember correctly, it had ended on a huge cliffhanger, with the appearance of a never-before-seen character…!)

(Our hero, Snow White the Samurai, calmly launches a special move at the mysterious figure! Howling Ninjutsu! Frozen Apple Shuriken…! Shubababa ☆)

???: ~…♪

Shinobu: (…!? Huh? That person I passed by just now—)

Yuuta-kun…?

???: …?

Shinobu: Er… You're Yuuta-kun, right? W-Why do you look so bewildered de gozaru…?!

Um, though… something feels different about you? Are you actually Hinata-kun, perhaps?

???: —I'm neither Yuuta nor Hinata, actually.

Shinobu: …? …?

Byakuya: I'm Yuuta and Hinata's older brother, Aoi Byakuya.

Shinobu: Who!?

Byakuya: I said, I'm Byakuya. Aoi Byakuya.[2]

Shinobu: Huuuh? A new character? What a cool name! Very ninja-core!

Byakuya: What's a ninja? Aren’t you an interesting fella. ♪

Shinobu: Wait, you're really neither of them de gozaru!? But I've never heard anything about them having an older brother…!?

Byakuya: Of course you wouldn't have. I'm their half-brother after all, and those two's selling points are being the “two-in-one twin idols”, remember?

The world wouldn't take kindly to the knowledge of a “third brother”.

Shinobu: Whaa…? Th-this is starting to make my head spiiin!

Er, um, Byakuya-dono? It's nice to meet you! I'm a friend of Yuuta-kun’s…!

Byakuya: …

Shinobu: Huh? W-What is it, de gozaru? You're crouching over—c-could it be that you have a stomachache? S-Should I call an ambulance or something…!?

Byakuya: Ahahaha! Ahh, I can't do it!

—Who the hell is Aoi Byakuya!?

Shinobu: Ummm, uhh…? Like you said, Yuuta-kun and Hinata-kun's older brother?

Byakuya: He doesn't exist! There's no one like that!!

Shinobu: Huh? What?

Yuuta: It's me, it's me, me, YU · U · TA! ♪

Shinobu: Eh, Yuuta-kun…?

Yuuta: Yup! Sorry, Shinobu-kun! It was sooo funny that you just accepted it so wholeheartedly that I couldn't help myself…♪

None of that was real! It was just a joke! Aoi Byakuya does not exist! All that just now was a fictional character I made up!!

Shinobu: … …

… … … …

Yuuta: ? Hey~? Earth to Shinobu-kun, you alright? Sorry, did I go too far?

Shinobu: Ugh~! Yuuta-kun!

Yuuta: Mmm, what's up?

Shinobu: What do you mean “what's up”, de gozaru~!? Please stop making such senseless jokes! My brain completely blanked out for a moment de gozaru!

Ahh! I dropped the paper bag with my book I worked so hard to get…! Urgh, I'm such a mess de gozaru~!

Yuuta: Ah, crap, I'm really sorry about that. Want me to buy you another?

Shinobu: That's impossible, de gozaru~. This book is really valuable—there's maybe only ten left in the world…

Yuuta: For real? Now I feel even worse about it… I'm really, really sorry—let me make it up to you.

Shinobu: No, no need to worry! This is all due to my inability to see through your joke, Yuuta-kun! I'm still an inexperienced ninja, de gozaru!

Yuuta: You‘re always working to improve yourself, huh, Shinobu-kun. I oughtta take a page out of your book.

Shinobu: I guess you could say that. Ever since I was a child, I'd overcome any hardship I'd encounter by thinking, “This is just another part of my ninja training!”

Yuuta: This episode turned unexpectedly tragic…

Shinobu: Tragic? Not at all! This is me bragging, de gozaru! By being introduced to the concept of ninjas, I was able to obtain a heart of steel that cannot be discouraged, no matter what may happen…!

Yuuta: I see… Yeah, it's that kinda thing I really would like to learn from you, Shinobu-kun.

I seriously envy you. I really wish I could be as strong as you…

Shinobu: …?

story directory | next →

Originally a novel from 1946, Momotaro Samurai (桃太郎侍) is a famous evil-battling samurai series set in the Edo period. It evolved into many period dramas and television series and is considered a huge influence on samurai plotlines, so naturally there are plenty of works that are spin-offs of its formula.

The name Byakuya (白夜)’s literal meaning is “white night”, which is when night passes without the sun setting (as often seen in arctic circles); a “night under the midnight sun”. Hinata’s themed around daybreak, and Yuuta’s themed around twilight, so I thought it fit in with the theme. You could say it’s a night without daybreak nor twilight.

#mirage #shinobu sengoku #yuuta aoi #translation #scout

24 notes · View notes

toujokaname · 2 years ago

Text

Princess Kaguya / Epilogue 1

Author: Kino Seitaro with Akira

Characters: Arashi, Tatsumi, Hokuto, Kanata, Hiyori

"The death of the idol Tomoe Hiyori is the birth of a new Tomoe Hiyori—"

← Previous ✧ Directory ✧ Next →

Location: Princess Kaguya Stage

Season: Winter

Time: Time goes by. The day of the recording.

Arashi: Look, look, this outfit! It makes me feel like I'm wearing a haregi kimono[1]...♪

The design was already cute in the sketch, but it feels even more like Princess Kaguya when worn in person ♪

Tatsumi: A gorgeous haori combined with modern innerwear.... Indeed, these garments are the very embodiment of the "modern arrangement of a classical work" concept.

Hokuto: I must take my hat off to the staff for their hard work.

It's rare to see such a large-scale set. It seems like a waste to use it for a one-time recording.

Kanata: Yes. I was also surprised at the "elevator"-like "mechanism".

Hokuto: As one would expect from such a popular program, the budget and the skills of the staff are outstanding.

Hiyori: Mhm, mhm. Wonderful costumes, a magnificent stage—it's suitable for my last job!

I can proudly tell my fans that this will be my "last job".

Tatsumi: Yes. It's time to display the fruits of all our practice so far. From living together, to granting "wishes"—and, having fun while playing at an amusement park with all the members.

All of it, it became our source of nourishment. I want this reading drama to make everyone feel that way.

Goodness, when I talk like that, it sounds like I'm giving a sermon. Now that the program is about to start, would the leader like to say a few words in closing?

Hiyori: That's right. At the end, the leader has to wrap things up on behalf of the unit.

I'm going to ramble a little bit, is that okay?

Arashi: Of course. It's the leader's last speech, so don't even worry about it.

Hiyori: Well then, I won't hold back—

Hiyori: Eh~ Ehem, ehem. (Clearing his throat)

Looking back on the immediate aftermath of the unit's gathering, it was truly the worst!

Living together for the Shuffle Unit failed, and I couldn't even look at ourselves anymore!

I thought it was appropriate for my last job, so I eagerly volunteered for the leadership position.

But then you immediately regretted having to live together and thought of it as a mistake, didn't you?

Kanata: Fufu. You really aren't "holding back"~♪

That is how deep our "connection" has become, is it not?

Hiyori: Yup. That's what Shuffle Units are for.

Suddenly being put into a unit with one job as the goal—it's normal for people to not get along with each other. I forgot about that.

It was the same when I was in fine, and when I joined Eden. Honestly, I didn't like the way in which Ibara ordered me to do this and that.

But now I get along well with them. I think it was fate that I was asked to participate in this Shuffle Project for the ending.

Hiyori: Ah. Of course, I haven't forgiven Eichi-kun yet!

He's the only one that I'll never reconcile with, you know? If Eichi-kun and I ever get along, it'll be a harbinger of cataclysmic events ♪

Hokuto: Tenshouin-senpai and Tomoe-senpai are like two sides of the same coin. It would be a shame if they never work together again.

Hiyori: Hm~ I wonder? Even after I quit being an idol, he'll still be a part of my life for some reason or another...

Just thinking about it now is depressing. Terrible weather!

Tatsumi: Ahaha. Eichi-san and Hiyori-san have a really interesting relationship.

Hokuto: But, I'd like to see a Tomoe-senpai who's no longer an idol. I'm sure you'll be able to get around in high society.

You're a skillful and graceful person. You'll be fine wherever you go.

Standing side by side on stage together, I can guarantee it.

Hiyori: Ahaha. You seem to have a lot of confidence in my future, don't you?

But, I'll do my best. Though I'm a little reluctant to leave the entertainment industry, which is always getting more and more interesting.

Hiyori: The death of the idol Tomoe Hiyori is the birth of a new Tomoe Hiyori—

I will live my life only looking forward. That's how I've always done it.

I'll leave ES the same way I left Yumenosaki Academy. There'll be a different light shining in the future, and I'll inherit a part of it.

So, don't be sad when this job is over, and move on.

This is my last stage as an idol.

Getto Spectacle—may the moonlight shine upon us.

Haregi are a type of expensive kimono people wear in special occasions, most often for New Year's, but also in weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies.

← Previous ✧ Directory ✧ Next →

#kino seitaro #akira #event story #princess kaguya #arashi #tatsumi #hokuto #kanata #hiyori

29 notes · View notes

akumanoken · 2 years ago

Text

Down the Aisle

The terrace, the guests… everything basking in the sun and the gentle breeze, it was the perfect day for a wedding… though it could be storming and Ayato couldn't care. He was standing there, watching the groomsmen and the bridesmaids walk hand in hand, parting once they came to the flowering arch, and as time went on, the slow procession, he could feel himself getting nervous. It was always so easy when his little mouse was around. So easy when he was there to urge him on, or to finally give up and decide to rush forward with wide eyes and wider smiles. Just as before, coming home to him in the kimono… the sake and cup waiting for him…

They were already wed…this was for everyone else… so why was he still so nervous?

"Hey, nii-san, you're gonna be okay??" Akira was so amused. He had never seen his brother like this before, but he supposed if he was getting married he'd look the same. No… he'd look worse. Nonetheless, he wouldn't miss the chance to tease. "Last chance to call it off~~"

"Shut up, Akira…" There was a tiny smile on his face as he said it, and Ayato finally heaved a deep sigh. "I'm… I'm normally not so nervous but he's… he's taking so long…."

"It's a wedding, Ayato-niisan," Akira chuckled. "The bride is allowed to be late… adds to the drama… ah!!"

The music, slow and classical, turned to a different song, and everyone stood up. Ayato stood there, rooted the spot and staring out with his heart in his throat…

And then Souji appeared, walking slowly down the aisle.

He… would never forget this.. how beautiful he was. The dress… the veil… He decided he wanted to do this again… sometime in the future. His love in a shiromuku… He already had this… and it was perfect. But to do it one day in a shrine… One day. Their eyes met and Souji gave that shy smile he normally gave… and no one else existed. Ayato didn't realize how hard he was smiling, almost laughing as he watched Souji come closer… and took the hand that reached out to him, remembering himself just enough to simply kiss it, turning to the officiant, who simply looked at them with a kind smile.

"Dearly beloved we're gathered here today to join these two souls in matrimony… a union before all others, in which they may take of each other's hearts, of their minds and bodies, and in so doing, create a bond that stands strong through the test of time, through all difficulties and all burdens, for the light of love lifts all burdens from our shoulders, and brings unto us all bliss. If there any among you who may give just cause why these two should not be wed, speak now or forever hold your peace…." Silence. "…then let us begin."

#drabble #npc: ishikawa ayato #npc: ishikawa akira #IT'S HAPPENING!!!

8 notes · View notes

astro-break · 1 year ago

Text

Thoughts on the 10th ep of Hypmic Rhyme Anima+. Spoilers beware

Season 1 | Ep.1 | Ep.2 | Ep.3 | Ep.4 | Ep. 5 | Ep. 6 | Ep. 7 | Ep. 8 | Ep. 9

LETS GOOOO MCD flashbackkkkk

Oh look finally a good look at TBH and the mastermind's faces, nice thanks OFC the big bag is Kaibyaku the medical dude

ah so in the end it all leads back to that company if all three of them worked in the same place

Ofc the classic cheek punch then pass out, always happens

LMAOO they knocked each others teeth out and made friendship bracelets out of it thats a romance right there.

Oh damn does that mean that kaibyaku has some of of medical issue? that was an IV in his arm im pretty sure or at least some sort of drip. Maybe Jakurai will play some sort of big end of series role that heals him? I hope not, that would be a bit boring but it would make sense since kujaku posse is the only duo not affiliated with the whole TBH trio thing

Leader battle lets goooo we'll probably get another leader song which is always fun

I hope we get a TBH one

EYYY HEADSET MIC LETS GOOO I looooveddd rosho's one and im so glad theres another one which is always fun

Huh mic embedded in the hand? Thats an interesting concept

[On a second rewatch I think its interesting how Kenji specifically says "I can't fall here. Not we. Theres some foreshadowing that he is the only real one here. He specifics in his rap vers that its "that wretched party" that belongs in a grave, not any of our characters in particular]

[also another detail. The necromancy + skull imagery to their rap verse…. they are bringing back old ghosts with their song… they are so tragic. The rap on as second watch is just so much more tragic once you know everything]

Kuko's rap uses the letters T B H as the starts of his verses which is fun

NIce imagery of three dragons fighting for dominance, a very apt metaphor for IchiSamaKuko who are just hothead extremes

huh wonder what was ripped up

oh thats a neat explanation of how they were able to do a lot of supernatural stuff. I feel like it would have been more interesting if it was a hallucination, but hey I'll take that L its not that bad even if a bit uninspired/not very well foreshadowed

Also the vibrations as controlling element, as someone who can hear electronics, is something that would work for me 100% wwwww I would go crazy if i had to hear those annoying sound waves 24/7

I mean exposition episode but its kinda cute actually? I hate that they're doing this after revealing that they're dead but it does put in the point that they were people, not good people, but still people

bro… bro… satoru specifically says in his rap that the world's our kitchen… he has so many kitchen metaphors here…. bro still holds his dream of opening a restaurant with his totally platonic life bro even after death… bro…..

I mean its not that bad of a motive, im not that convinced that they're in the wrong. I'm also very much a sucker for acts of destructive love which is why i may be more inclined to cheer for kaibyakumon

While I do wish that they had fleshed out Kenji's relationship with Satoru and Akira a bit more, I do feel like the duo's dynamic on its own was really well presented before the big reveal. Like what's Kenji's feelings about SatoAkira, why is he so invested in this whole plan other than borderline idolizing kaibyaku?

I feel its hilarious how kenji's just sitting there while kaibyaku is just going on his monologue wwww

Nice, i like how they used Oosaka's island nature into their planning but there Are other bridges going into the mainland im pretty sure?

okay but why should you care? Like hes doing a overall good? Kaibyakumon's goals are aligned with the overall cast's motive of making sure that the government is placed in check so if the team wants us to have a reason to root against them, gotta give a good reason, esp after that backstory

LMAO HIFUMI oh i feel so bad for him

#hypmic #hypnosis microphone #Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle: Rhyme Anima+#hypnosis mic rhyme anima #hypmic spoilers

5 notes · View notes

maoist-mizer · 2 years ago

Text

Thanks for tagging me @swordfaery :3

Rules: shuffle your ‘on repeat’ playlist and post the first 10 tracks, then list 10 songs you really like, each by a different artist. then tag 10 people to do the same thing.

I know I don’t have to but don’t mind me I’m also going to be talking a bit about these songs

Ftp by MASTER BOOT RECORD -> I found this song by looking for music for my Faith: The Unholy Trilogy playlist, I don’t think I’ve come across synthesised heavy metal before so this was quite interesting. Their side project Keygen Church is also pretty good, if anything I’d recommend that over MASTER BOOT RECORD given their use of organ and sick ‘classical Baroque influence’.

White Noiz by Akira Yamaoka -> I recently was watching Gab Smolders’ playthrough of Silent Hill, so I decided to check out the franchise’s various soundtracks. It’s not my favourite song but I like the atmosphere.

Roygbiv by Boards of Canada -> I’ve been checking out IDM so obviously BoC were a staple to get into. I haven’t really connected with much of their music but this is one of the ones that I really like. I find it fascinating that the album is entirely instrumental save for some audio clips of old Sesame Street episodes sporadically scattered throughout. I’m not sure if there’s a reason why this song was titled Roygbiv, but I do think either way it fits with the aesthetic and atmosphere (as for those who don’t know Roygbiv is an acronym listing the colours of the rainbow: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet).

Somebody Told Me by The Killers -> I just wanted to listen to all of Hot Fuss, but I do find it funny that I knew this song first from Måneskin’s cover of it.

Sonne by Rammstein -> Ah yes one of the songs I’ll put on while pacing for hours thinking about my blorbos and OCs. Certified vampire song.

Ladykillers by Lush -> towards the end of last year I was watching Gregg Araki’s filmography and checking out shoegaze bands which is how I got around to Lush. I wish i could look half as cool as Miki Berenyi does with bright red hair.

Little Girls by Oingo Boingo -> the JoJo brainrot is real so I decided to check out Oingo Boingo since they were referenced in the show, to be honest there’s no way I can describe their music other than it just being tasty. It’s great, I want to eat it. And it always feels very awkward having to explain how this (so far) is my favourite song by them and no it is not weird I prommy.

Halls of Illusions by Insane Clown Posse -> Nothing much to say, certified juggalo moment.

Theme of Laura by Akira Yamaoka -> once again Silent Hill brought me here, tho this is my favourite track so far from the soundtracks.

Tear You Apart by She Wants Revenge -> I’m always on the look out for more goth music in whatever form it comes in, I’ll have to check the rest of their stuff out for more goth rock. That being said this probably just ended up on my ‘on repeat’ playlist due to it being on an OC’s playlists lol.

Now for the next 10 songs that I really like:

Tagging: @loverlesbian @sarenite @tigraine-mantear @femtopulsed @croissantcitysucks @deadrunin @mercymorncristabel @astridcookie @smarterthantheaverageloser @arofication (also no pressure if you don’t want to do this)

7 notes · View notes

pjsgames · 2 years ago

Photo

Ah, Blue Dragon, released back in 2006 for the Xbox 360. It's been quite some time, hasn't it? This role-playing game brought together the talents of Hironobu Sakaguchi and Akira Toriyama, and you could certainly feel the influence of their work in the likes of Final Fantasy and Dragon Ball Z.

The game follows young protagonist Shu and his friends as they embark on an adventure, discovering their mysterious shadow powers. While the story might not have been groundbreaking, it did a decent job of keeping players engaged. The turn-based combat system, on the other hand, was a familiar and comfortable experience for fans of the genre.

The world itself was vibrant and colorful, sporting Toriyama's signature art style, which gave it a certain charm. In the grand scheme of things, Blue Dragon may not have been the most revolutionary RPG, but it did provide a solid experience for Xbox 360 owners back in the day.

Looking back at Blue Dragon now, it's interesting to see how it's aged. While it may not be a top-tier classic, it remains a memorable title for those who played it during its heyday. As a piece of gaming history, it's worth revisiting if you're feeling nostalgic or if you're interested in exploring the rich library of the Xbox 360.

https://pjga.me/bd

#bluedragonthrowback #xbox360memories #rpgnostalgia #classicgaming #toriyamaart #turnbasedcombat #gaminghistory #videogamevibes #retrogaming

3 notes · View notes

81scorp · 4 months ago

Text

Constructive criticism: Dragonball Evolution

Ah yes, Dragonball Evolution.

Back in 1984 Mangaka Akira Toriyama created Dragon Ball, a manga inspired by the classical 16th-century Chinese novel: Journey to the west, which became a big hit.

Many years later, in the 2000s, Hollywood realized that not just western superherocomics can be turned into movies and milked for money. And so, 20th Century Fox (as they were called before Disney devoured them) bought the movierights to Dragon Ball and tried to make a live-action movie out of it. The film began development in 2002.

Stephen Chow was approached to direct the film, and although he said he was deeply interested because he is a fan of Dragon Ball, Chow declined the chance to direct. Instead, he accepted a role as a producer via his company Star Overseas. Chow`s reason for his decision is that he believes that he should only direct stories he had created. Robert Rodriguez, Mark A.Z. Dippé and Zack Snyder were offered to direct but passed. 20th Century Fox then went on to send the script to writer/director James Wong who accepted. Ben Ramsey, the movie`s writer, wrote the first draft which was deemed too expensive to shoot, and in the end, he wrote about five different drafts of the script following notes from the studio. James Wong wrote the last draft, again according to notes from the studio, but decided to remain uncredited as the co-screenwriter. James Marsters, who was cast as the movie`s villain Piccolo, was a big fan of the manga. Justin Chatwin, who was cast as Son Goku, prepared for his role by reading several volumes of the manga and even the novel it was based on.

When the movie finally came out it was... not good. It wasn`t very faithful to the source material. But if you ignore the sourcematerial (like the movie did) it wasn`t good even standing on it`s own. Characters and plot were both pretty bland and the CGI didn`t look very good. You could tell that this was rushed and made on an unnecessarily low budget.

This movie was made when Tom Rothman was one of the big guys at 20th Century Fox, infamous for micromanaging and rushing movies. Remember, this was the same studio that gave us X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

Before the film's release, Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama suggested fans treat it as an alternate universe version of his work. In a 2013 interview with Asahi Shimbun, Toriyama revealed that he had felt the script did not "capture the world or the characteristics" of his series and was "bland" and not interesting, so he cautioned and gave suggestions for changes. But the Hollywood producers did not heed his advice, "And just as I thought, the result was a movie I cannot call Dragon Ball."

So... if I had a wish-granting dragon that would allow me to travel back in time and change this movie... what would I have changed?

Son Goku

Nothing against Justin Chatwin, but like I said in my CC of Shyamalan`s Last Airbender; In a time where there are so few roles for asian actors to play, why cast a white actor to play a character who`s name clearly screams "I`m asian! I`m asian!"?

Also: I`d make his personality more like how it was in the Manga: a naive guy who loves food, fighting and improving his fighting skills.

Plot

It starts with a short little man (Prins Pilaf) and his helpers (Shu, an anthropomorphic dog in a ninja outfit and Mai, a black-haired, human woman) finding an ancient teapot, hidden in a wall in a temple. After this we get a little exposition in the form of old, Japanese paintings and a voice-over.

The narrator tells us that according to the old legends there are seven mystical orbs known as "Dragon Balls" in the world. When assembled, they could be used to summon Shenron, a mighty dragon who would grant one wish to the one who summoned him. After the wish is granted, the Dragon Balls are scattered again across the world and become inert for one year.

There once was a powerful devil known as Piccolo who wanted to use the Dragon Balls to take over the world. He fought and lost to a great fighter who used a secret technique to imprison him in a teapot (like the one we saw earlier). And so, the world was saved... at least for a while.

The present: We see a house, about 40 feet away from the house there`s a giant footprint, it looks like it has been there for a few years. In the backyard of this house we see a teenage Son Goku (16 or 17 years old) practicing martial arts. Then he does some other stuff like chopping wood with his bare hands and cooking and eating food. He tells a crystalball with four stars in it: "My first day at school tomorrow granpa. Wish me luck." He goes to sleep.

Next day: Goku, being homeschooled by his granpa his entire life, is a fish out of water. The ugly furbelt that he has around his waist isn`t helping either.

Two bullies harass a meek little guy. Chi-Chi, a girl walking the hallway with her best friend sees them and wants to stop them. Her friend tells her: "No Chi-Chi! Remember what the principal said, if you get in one more fight you`ll be expelled!"

Chi-Chi considers this for a second... then decides to help the little guy anyway, she refuses to stand by when someone is being bullied. Fortunately she doesn`t have do anything because the bullies get distracted by a new guy with crazy, untamed hair, an ugly belt made out of fur who looks completely lost; it`s Son Goku. The bullies try to mess with Goku but he beats them up with zero effort. Later, Goku and Chi-Chi meet in the school cafeteria. They talk a little and Chi-Chi offers to help Goku with his studies so he won`t fall behind. Montage: Chi-Chi helps Goku with his studies, they practice martial arts together and other stuff. Goku reveals to Chi-Chi that the ugly furbelt he keeps wearing is actually his tail, this is why he`s been home-schooled for most of his life. He tells her that once, when he was little, another kid pulled his tail and it weakened him, so the tail is basically his achilles heel. That`s why he has it around his waist so that people can`t easily grab it.

Later in the evening, elsewhere: A girl with her hair dyed blue, about Son Goku`s age, appears to be looking for something. She has some kind of hand-held radar. She wears some kind of utility belt around her waist and stands next to a car.

Saturday: Goku decides to go fishing and meets the girl with blue hair, her name is Bulma and she tells him that she`s looking for something that could lead to a breakthrough in the field of renewable energy. Goku invites her to his house where she finds that he has a Dragon Ball. She pulls out her own two Dragon Balls and holds them close to Goku`s. The closer the Dragon Balls are to each other the stronger the energy that they emit get. Bulma believes that if she can get all Dragon Balls together she can tap them for a source of unlimited energy. And if it turns out that the old legends about a wish-granting dragon being true then heck, she could just wish for an unlimited energy source. Goku is unwilling to part with the only memory he has of his grandpa but Bulma makes a deal with him, he can join her in her search for the other Dragon Balls, and as soon as she has gotten what she wants he`ll get his four star Dragon Ball back. It`s a deal.

Goku: "Wait, is there any full moon tonight?"

Bulma (checks her digital calender): "No. Why?"

Goku: "Bad things happen when there`s a full moon"

Bulma: "Like what?"

Goku: "That giant footprint outside my backyard. It was caused by a giant monster who appeared when there was a full moon. It stepped on my grandpa and... crushed him."

Bulma: "...Oh."

They go outside. Bulma takes out a capsule from her utility belt, pushes a button on it and drops it on the ground. The tiny capsule turns into a car, Goku is amazed. They get in and drive away. They meet Chi-Chi, Goku tells her everything, Chi-Chi is intrigued and joins them. Road Trip!

Elsewhere, a rural town: People are doing their things, hanging up laundry, old ladies are gossiping, children are playing. One of the kids sees something in the sky; an airship. A Red Ribbon Army airship to be precise! (In this version the Red Ribbon Army works for Pilaf.) Piccolo, an old, green, bald, pointy-eared man with antennaes on his forehead is on board this airship. He senses that this town is hiding a Dragon Ball. He raises his hand, charges it with energy and fires. A quarter of the town is destroyed, people run in panic. Piccolo is disappointed in himself, back when he was in his prime a blast like that would have been enough to destroy the entire town.

Prince Pilaf: "Don`t worry, when we have all the Dragon Balls you can wish yourself young again, and then help me take over the world."

Piccolo: "Yes... Of course."

(Piccolo has no intention of helping Pilaf, as soon as he has gotten his full strength back he`ll throw out Pilaf like yesterday`s garbage and take over the world himself.) Piccolo fires more energy blasts at the town, he hates to leave a work half-done.

Act 2: Elsewhere, in the middle of nowhere: Bulma stops the car, she, Goku and Chi-Chi get out and stretch their legs. There is a Dragon Ball not far from where they are. They enter a cave, inside the cave is a temple. We get something similar to the beginning of Raiders of the lost ark and they get their next Dragon Ball.

Bulma takes out a capsule that turns into a futuristic house. They will set up camp here for the night. Little do they know that they are being watched... by Yamcha, a thief, and his shapeshifting, Pokémon-like cat sidekick named Pool. Goku goes to hunt for food, Bulma thinks he`s an idiot since they already have food with them, but Goku is not much for that prepackaged microwave stuff, with it`s tiny little portions and prefers to do it his way. When he is gone Yamcha and Pool sees this as a perfect opportunity to strike. They sneak in and try to steal as much as possible but are discovered by Bulma and Chi-Chi who defend themselves. Yamcha and Pool gets the upper hand but then Goku comes back with a wild boar the size of a car and beats them. Yamcha and Pool flee. Goku, Chi-Chi and Bulma hear the sound of someone clapping their hands, it comes from an old, bald, bearded man wearing clothes with turtle motif. Bulma thinks he looks familiar. The old man saw them fighting and is impressed by Goku`s fighting style and wonders who taught him. Goku tells him that it was his grandpa, Son Gohan. The old man recognizes that name, he was his old classmate back when he studied martial arts. He wonders what his old classmate is doing these days and is a little saddened to hear that he`s dead. The old man offers to teach Son Goku and reveals that his name is Master Roshi. Bulma recognizes that name!

Bulma: "You`re that peeping tom! You spied on women in the bath house a few years ago!"

Master Roshi: "That... that wasn`t me! You... must be thinking about... a completely different person! Who is definetly not me!"

A little later Goku eats his boar and shares it with Master Roshi who shares some stories with him. He tells him that when he was young he studied under the great Master Mutaito, who in turn studied under Master Korin. He shows Goku a "cool trick" that he learned from his old master: an energy projection attack called the Kamehameha. Goku really wants to learn that technique. Bulma and Chi-Chi refuses to let Roshi sleep in the same house as them. Roshi is OK with that and takes out his own capsule that turns into an RV.

Next day: A little montage of the gang travelling and Master Roshi helping Goku to improve his fighting skills. Goku tries several times to do a Kamehameha but fails, Roshi tells him to be patient, it takes time. All this time they are being followed by Yamcha and Pool.

They reach the town that Piccolo destroyed earlier. Yamcha is devastated, his uncle lived there! He joins Goku`s gang, now they have a common enemy.

Their journey continues. Goku and Yamcha trains under Master Roshi. Goku keeps trying to do a Kamehameha, he is doing slightly better now. After hours of focusing he manages, for a fraction of a second, to create a tiny little spark. Yamcha and Bulma bonds a little.

The gang reaches a temple carved out a mountain. Master Roshi has a bad feeling about this, he believes something bad will happen. Mai, Shu and several soldiers from the Red Ribbon Army show up. Fightscene. (Bulma is not a martial artist like the others, but she has guns though.) Piccolo emerges from the temple opening holding a Dragon Ball in his hand. Master Roshi recognizes him. He`s the devil that his old Master Mutaito sealed away years ago! (We get a little flashback: Roshi and Son Gohan were in their mid-twenties when it happened. The technique that defeated Piccolo took so much strength out of Mutaito that it cost him his life.) Yamcha, filled with anger, attacks Piccolo and is swatted way as if he was a fly. Goku attacks Piccolo, their fight lasts longer than ten seconds but Goku is defeated, Roshi fights fights Piccolo but is also defeated. Chi-Chi and Bulma knows that they are outmatched. Mai takes their Dragon Balls, the Dragon Radar and all of Bulma`s capsules. Piccolo plans to kill them but Bulma uses a smoke bomb. Chi-Chi takes the Dragon Balls back from Mai, Goku gets up and picks up Roshi and Yamcha. Bulma gets an idea: run towards the temple! They run. Mai takes back the Dragon Balls from Chi-Chi. Inside the temple entrance Roshi gather what`s left of his strength to fire a Kamehameha that makes the entrance collapse. They are now trapped inside. Piccolo finds their plan foolish, nothing awaits them there except a slow death. He could have finished them off quickly. But he can`t stay to do so, he has used up too much power, doesn`t have time to wait and he has their Dragon Balls, so there`s no reason for him to stay. He leaves, Mai and the Red Ribbon Army soldiers follow him. Goku`s gang wait a while to recover their strength and for Yamcha to regain consciousness. Master Roshi uses a kamehameha to clear the debris, after a few blasts they`re finally out. It`s night... and there`s a full moon. Goku sees the moon and starts to change. He transforms into a giant weregorilla with a tail and starts going berserk. Bulma sees the giant footprint that the monster leaves, it looks just like the one in Goku`s backyard. She puts two and two together; the monster that killed Goku`s grandpa... was Goku himself! Chi-Chi remembers what Goku said to her a few days ago, about his tail being his achilles heel. She tells the others that they have cut of his tail! Pool turns into a sword that Yamcha uses to cut the tail off. Goku turns back to his old self. He is exhausted, both physically and mentally, he sees the giant footprint in the ground. He puts two and two together... and faints.

The next day: Goku remains unconscious. Roshi knows what they should do, he takes them to a wooded area where there`s a very, very, VERY hightower. Pool turns himself into a big monkey and climbs the tower with his hands and feet while holding Goku`s unconscious body with his tail. The others climb after him.

Master Roshi: "I`m getting too old for this."

At the top of the tower there`s a round, almost saucer-like building. Inside the building they meet a short, chubby, talking cat carrying a big staff. It takes them a few seconds to realize that THIS is Master Korin. If Roshi is a (dirty minded) Obi-Wan Kenobi Korin is like Yoda. The gang is tired, exhausted and hungry, Korin gives them Senzu beans that restores their stamina, vitality and gives them full nourishment. He performs a telepathic mind-meld with Son Goku. He goes deep into his subconscious and helps him get over the shock and guilt of accidentally killing his own grandpa. (It`s kinda like that episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender with the guru.) Goku finally wakes up, he is hungry.

How are they gonna find and stop Piccolo? They have no Dragon Radar or means of transportation. Korin helps them by giving them a small cloud called Flying Nimbus that can transport them. It`s a very sensitive cloud though, it only allows Goku and Chi-Chi to ride it. Korin also knows where Piccolo is and points them in the right direction. Goku and Chi-Chi flies away on the Flying Nimbus, Pool transforms himself into a big bird that Roshi, Bulma and Yamcha can ride as he flies after the Nimbus.

Act 3: Mai finds the last Dragon Ball at the bottom of the ocean and gives it to Piccolo. Now he has all seven!

Prince Pilaf: "Now you can help me take over the world!"

Piccolo: "About that... I lied."

Piccolo plans to throw Pilaf overboard but Mai and Shu stands between him and Pilaf.

Mai: "If you want Pilaf..."

Shu: "... You`re gonna have to go through us!"

Piccolo: (shrugs) "OK."

He casually tosses all three of them overboard like they were yesterday`s garbage. They land in the ocean and survive. Piccolo gives a meaningful look to the soldiers around him. They gulp and understand that they are now under new management and quickly adapt to that fact. Piccolo takes the Dragon Balls, jumps off the ship and lands on the ground. He summons the mighty Shenron and speaks his wish. Shenron makes him young again. Piccolo gets ready to destroy Shenron but Goku arrives in the nick of time and interrupts him. Shenron disappears, the Dragon Balls fly up in the air and scatter. Piccolo and Goku fight. The Red Ribbon soldiers try to assist Piccolo but Chi-Chi fights them to prevent them from doing so. Unfortunately the soldiers outnumber her, but fortunately Roshi shows up and evens the odds. Pool drops Bulma and Yamcha off on the ship. Bulma runs through the ship looking for her utility belt, Yamcha fights off any guards who try to stop her. Goku keeps fighting Piccolo. Bulma finds her utility belt, takes a capsule that turns into a rocket launcher and fires it at Piccolo. It doesn`t do much damage. Piccolo fires an energy blast at her but Goku jumps in front of her and takes the hit. Goku gets up, musters all his strength and for a moment, it is as if his grandfather is there with him in spirit to give him extra strength. Goku fires a POWERFUL kamehameha at Piccolo.

Piccolo is (seemingly) obliterated and Goku collapses from exhaustion. He wakes up and we get to the movie`s denouement. Since the Dragon Balls have been used and are now inert for a year there isn`t any big, important, adventurous stuff left for the gang to do for a while. Bulma and Yamcha have grown close and plan to go on a date, Roshi leaves in his RV and Chi-Chi suggests to Goku that the two of them should go on a date. As long as their date is in a restaurant Goku is all for it. He and Chi-Chi fly away on the Nimbus.

THE END

Mid-Credit scene: One year later: Bulma, searching the bottom of the ocean in a Mini-Submarine finds Goku`s Dragon Ball with the four stars.

Post-Credit scene: A flashback/dream sequence: Piccolo, standing in a palace above the clouds meets a doppleganger of himself, wearing a white robe with a blue collar. On his robe he has a red colored kanji that means "God". The doppleganger bids him farewell. Piccolo wakes up, injured but alive.

Now, I could stop here... but I wanna pitch the sequels too.

Dragon Ball 2

Nine years have passed. Bulma`s dream of unlimited global energy has become a reality. Goku now has a seven year old son named Son Gohan. Master Roshi has taken in three new students: Krillin, Tien Shinhan and Chiaotzu. Three aliens called Saiyans visit Earth with plans to take over it, their names are Vegeta, Nappa and Raditz, they look human except they all have tails... Just like Goku used to have! Goku is a Saiyan! Piccolo`s doppleganger reveals himself to Goku and the gang (and is now much older than Piccolo himself). He reveals that he is Kami, the guardian of Earth, he is originally from a planet called Namek. It was he who created the Dragon Balls and that he and Piccolo were once one. If he or Piccolo dies the Dragon Balls will cease to function. Kami also reveals that it is possible to wish a person back from the dead, but a person can only be resurrected once, you only get one chance, not infinite chances. Speaking of Piccolo, he starts to work with the heroes now that they have a common enemy, but he insists it`s only temporary. Anyway, the gang fights the aliens. Piccolo dies in the battle as does Nappa and Raditz. Vegeta survives and leaves Earth in his escape pod.

Dragon Ball 3

Goku and the gang travels to Namek, saves a bunch of Namekians, Vegeta switches sides and Piccolo comes back to life. Goku goes super Saiyan, fights and defeats Frieza.

Dragon Ball 4

A young man from the future, (named Trunks) shows up and warns Goku and the gang about a monster named Cell who will threaten the world in one year. The gang prepare themselves for Cell, but they were not prepared for the three androids (16, 17 and 18) who would show up before Cell. They fight the androids, Vegeta learns how to go Super saiyan, Cell shows up, absorbs the androids and become stronger because of it. The gang fights Cell, and manages to pull android 18 out of him. They fight and defeat Cell.

Dragon Ball 5

Goku and the gang fights a Monster/Demon named Buu.

Aand that`s how I would do it. Not great but hopefully something that Akira Toriyama would be OK with.

It is of course very easy for me to write these because I have the luxury of hindsight. And I didn`t have Tom Rothman standing over me, micromanaging the movie to death and pressuring me to get it made before a deadline.

Why do I write these?

For several reasons. I`m nitpicky. Sometimes the movies I criticize aren`t bad, I just like my own ideas better. Sometimes the movies I critize are bad. I care about good storytelling and it`s a fun excerize in creativity and script doctoring.

But also because I have a lot of of free time.

----------------------------------------------------

Written stuff: 60

Started writing this 2024-07-13

I`ve had this on my to-do list for a while now. After I heard of Akira Toriyamas passing I felt that now is the time for me to start writing this, but then for some reason I did my little CC/movie pitch of Spider-Man in the MCU instead. This was originally gonna be my Written stuff number 59.

Comments are appreciated.

Other movies on my Constructive Criticism list that you can look forward to

Supergirl (1984) Jonah Hex (2010) The Spirit (2008) The Dark Knight trilogy

And as usual: English is not my first language, so if my writing doesn`t seem to flow naturally, you know why.

You can find me on artstation. Also: My sister has a patreon if you`re interested.

#editorial #constructive criticism #dragon ball #81scorp

0 notes

missrosiesworld · 11 months ago

Text

Café Connections

The gentle hum of the TV subtly blended with the bubbling of pots and the soft whistling of kettles, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in Café Leblanc. The warm, inviting lights enveloped the café, making it a serene retreat from the bustling streets of Tokyo. Behind the counter, Akira Kurusu stood in quiet contemplation. His gray eyes moved attentively yet distantly over the café, a testament to his introverted nature as he managed the café's daily operations.

The mundane rhythm of his morning was interrupted by the sound of the bell above the door. A woman with long, curly hair in a rich copper mocha hue entered, her hair cascading down her back and shimmering in the café's warm lighting. Her tan skin radiated a natural glow under the soft lights, and her green, gold-flecked eyes sparkled with an enchanting charm.

Approaching the counter with a warm, engaging smile, she greeted him softly, "Good morning. May I have a cup of your finest coffee, please?"

Akira, momentarily taken aback by her striking presence, returned her smile. While usually reserved, he found her demeanor disarming, her beauty more than just physical. "Certainly," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of newfound enthusiasm. "Would you care to pair that with some breakfast? Our menu ranges from light toast to more substantial meals."

She pondered his suggestion, her fingers idly playing with her hair as she perused the menu. "I think I'll have breakfast," she decided, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What do you recommend?"

In his methodical manner, Akira detailed the choices available – from savory bacon and eggs to sweet waffles and French toast, along with simpler options like cereal and yogurt. "Anything catch your eye?" he asked, his smile slightly more pronounced than usual.

"Hmm, let's go with something classic and comforting," she chose, her eyes twinkling playfully. "Scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and toast, please. And, of course, a cup of your best coffee."

With a quiet "Got it," Akira excused himself to the kitchen. As he prepared the meal, he found himself unexpectedly intrigued by the woman at the counter. Each dish was prepared with an extra level of care – the eggs fluffy, the bacon perfectly crispy, and the toast golden and buttery.

Returning to the counter with the well-prepared breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed coffee, his smile was genuine. "Your breakfast is ready! Enjoy, and if there's anything else you need, just let me know," he said, meeting her green eyes briefly before averting his gaze.

The meal was a testament to his careful attention: the eggs were soft and fluffy, the bacon crisp to perfection, and the toast golden brown. "The coffee is freshly brewed as well," he added, a hint of pride in his voice.

Her eyes sparkled with delight at the sight of her meal. "Thank you so much," she said, her appreciation clear in her voice. "It all looks fantastic."

As she began to eat, a thought struck her. She realized she didn't know the name of the thoughtful individual who had prepared her meal. Looking up at him with a friendly smile, she inquired softly, "By the way, I don't think I caught your name."

Akira, taken aback by her question, chuckled softly, a blush tinting his cheeks. "Ah, I apologize for not introducing myself sooner. I'm Akira Kurusu," he said, a bit awkwardly. "And your name is?"

With a gentle gaze, Miya responded, "I'm Miya Saito. It's a real pleasure to meet you, Kurusu."

"The pleasure is all mine, Saito," Akira replied, his smile sincere but reserved. He mentally noted her name, appreciating its sound. Tentatively, he added, "Saito, that’s a beautiful name."

Realizing his comment might have been too forward, he hastily amended, "Ah, um... I didn't mean that to be strange. Sorry."

Miya's reaction was a warm smile. "No need to apologize, Kurusu," she reassured him, her voice filled with mirth. "And your name, Akira Kurusu, it's quite unique too, isn't it?"

Akira, buoyed by her playful tone, responded with a slight nod and a small smile. "I guess it is, in its own way," he said, a hint of self-consciousness in his tone. "Thank you."

Their light-hearted banter brought a relaxed atmosphere to the café, signifying a comfortable rapport between them.

Akira, driven by a budding curiosity about Miya, leaned in slightly. "I can't help but notice you're new around here," he started, his tone reflecting his careful approach. "May I ask what brings you to this area?"

Miya's face lit up, clearly pleased by his interest. "I've recently moved here," she shared, enthusiasm lacing her words. "Exploring the neighborhood and finding Café Leblanc has been a delightful surprise."

"That's wonderful to hear," Akira responded, his enthusiasm genuine but subdued. "Welcome to the neighborhood. If you need any guidance or have any questions, please feel free to ask."

"Thank you. Your kindness is much appreciated," Miya said, her gratitude evident. "I might just take you up on your offer. It's lovely to find such a welcoming place."

As they continued their conversation, Miya casually mentioned, "I'm actually starting at Shujin Academy on Monday," her voice betraying a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Akira's eyes lit up with a mix of surprise and shared understanding. "Shujin Academy? That's where I study," he revealed, his smile more pronounced. "I could show you around if you'd like. It might help to have a familiar face on your first day."

Miya's relief was evident. "That would be wonderful. Thank you, Kurusu," she said, her smile reflecting her growing ease.

"How about meeting at the school gates on Monday?" Akira suggested, his tone conveying a genuine willingness to help.

"That sounds perfect," Miya agreed, her appreciation clear.

Their conversation then turned towards their experiences at Shujin Academy. Akira shared insights and tips, revealing a side of himself that was observant and thoughtful. "There's a quiet courtyard that's ideal for breaks," he mentioned, describing it with a quiet enthusiasm.

Miya's laughter, blending seamlessly with the café's ambient music, signaled her growing comfort. As they discussed their personal interests, with Miya speaking of her love for music and Akira discussing his culinary passions, their dialogue became a vibrant and engaging exchange, revealing more about each other's personalities.

As their engaging conversation unfolded, the sound of the café door chiming with new arrivals caught Akira's attention. He cast a brief, somewhat regretful glance towards the door, indicating his need to return to work. "I should attend to the other customers," he said, his tone apologetic. Despite his words, his gaze lingered on Miya for a moment, silently expressing his wish for her to stay.

Miya, understanding his unspoken request, smiled reassuringly. "I'll be here," she assured him, her voice warm and understanding, her smile a silent agreement to wait.

A wave of relief washed over Akira, accompanied by a small, thankful smile. "I'll just top up your coffee before I go—it's on the house," he said, giving her a brief, somewhat shy wink, before turning to greet the new customers. As he moved about the café, he occasionally glanced back at Miya, ensuring she was comfortable.

From her vantage point, Miya watched Akira as he skillfully balanced his duties, her eyes following his quiet, efficient movements. The quaint charm of Café Leblanc enveloped her, each detail contributing to the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Akira's presence enhanced.

When Akira returned with a fresh cup of coffee for her, their eyes met briefly in a silent exchange. He placed the cup gently on the table, his smile subtle but meaningful.

"Apologies for the interruption," he said, his voice carrying both apology and warmth. "I hope you're still enjoying your visit."

Miya's eyes sparkled in response. "It's been a wonderful afternoon, thanks to you," she replied, her tone conveying genuine appreciation.

Akira hesitated, his internal struggle apparent as he balanced his responsibilities with his desire to continue their conversation. "I'll be back to join you shortly," he promised, his eyes holding hers for a moment longer than necessary before he turned away to tend to his other duties.

As he moved away, Miya watched him with a sense of admiration for his dedication and kindness. She took a sip of her coffee, the warmth of the drink reflecting the café's inviting ambiance. Despite the activity around her, she felt a sense of belonging, a rarity in new places.

Throughout his tasks, Akira's glances towards Miya were subtle yet meaningful, each one a silent promise of their continued conversation.

Once the café had quieted down, Akira returned to Miya's table, his demeanor more relaxed. "Things have calmed down a bit," he said as he sat down across from her. "Sorry for the wait. Let's pick up where we left off, shall we?"

"There's no need to apologize," Miya responded, her voice filled with sincere admiration. "It was actually quite nice to see you in action. You're clearly skilled at what you do."

Akira's cheeks tinged with a hint of a blush at her praise. "Thank you," he said modestly. "I just try to do my best. So, about our conversation..."

They resumed their discussion, delving deeper into their personal stories and aspirations. Miya shared her dreams and passion for music, her enthusiasm infectious. Akira listened with a quiet intensity, his thoughtful responses and focused gaze reflecting his genuine interest in her stories.

As they conversed, their connection deepened, their shared laughter and stories intertwining to form a bond between them. The café's ambient music and the soft murmurs of other patrons provided a comforting backdrop, encapsulating the essence of their growing friendship.

As their conversation gradually came to a close, Miya checked her watch and expressed surprise. "Oh, looks like I need to head out. I have some errands to take care of," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of regret.

As she reached for her wallet to settle the bill, she looked up at Akira with a sincere smile. "I really enjoyed today, Kurusu. Thank you for the great company, and the food and coffee were wonderful."

Akira accepted the payment, but hesitated for a moment, holding the money as if weighing his next words. He looked at Miya, a blend of determination and a slight shyness evident in his demeanor. "Saito, wait," he said tentatively. "Would it be okay if we exchanged numbers? It'll make coordinating for Monday's school tour easier and," he paused, his smile growing warmer, "I would like to stay in touch."

Miya's reaction was one of both happiness and surprise. "I'd like that," she responded, her tone warm. "Continuing our conversations would be lovely."

As they exchanged their phones, their fingers brushed slightly, a brief yet impactful moment that resonated between them. They shared a shy smile, a mutual recognition of the growing connection they felt.

Entering their numbers, there was a sense of anticipation for what the future might hold, each digit typed symbolizing the promise of future conversations and a deepening relationship. The moment felt significant, as if the world around them paused to acknowledge the start of something new.

Once they saved each other's contact information, they returned the phones, their smiles reflecting a blend of joy and a touch of nervous excitement. Miya gathered her things, her movements now carrying a lightness that hadn't been there before.

"I'll see you on Monday," she said, her voice light but genuinely eager.

"Monday it is," Akira replied, his smile mirroring hers, his tone sincere and warm. "I'm looking forward to it."

They shared a moment of silent understanding, recognizing the meaningful step they had taken in their friendship. It was a small gesture – exchanging numbers – but it held the potential for so much more.

Miya headed towards the door, her steps light and carefree. Akira watched her leave, feeling a sense of contentment and hopeful anticipation for their future interactions. This chance meeting at Café Leblanc had grown into something unexpectedly significant for both of them.

"Take care," he called out softly, his voice imbued with a note of hope and expectancy for what was yet to come.

At the door, Miya turned back to offer Akira one last smile, a silent promise of the future conversations and laughter they would share. Then, she stepped out into the world, leaving behind a café that had become a place of new memories, newfound connections, and limitless possibilities.

As Miya walked away from Café Leblanc, the cool air outside sharply contrasted with the warmth she had felt inside. Her mind replayed the conversation with Akira, bringing a smile to her face. Pulling out her phone, she acted on impulse, typing a quick message to Akira. It read, "Thank you for the coffee and the chat! I'm really looking forward to Monday. Enjoy the rest of your day! 😊"

Back inside the café, Akira was immersed in his routine, his actions precise and deliberate. The post-lunch quietness provided a rare moment of reflection, his thoughts returning to Miya and the easy rapport they had shared.

His phone buzzed, interrupting his reverie. He paused, wiping his hands before retrieving the phone. The message from Miya brought an uncharacteristic warmth to his face. He stood there, formulating a reply, wanting to convey his thoughts just right. After a brief pause, he typed back, "It was my pleasure. I'm glad you enjoyed your time here. Looking forward to showing you around Shujin Academy. Have a wonderful day!"

Content, Akira slipped the phone back into his pocket, a subtle change in his demeanor. The mundane tasks of cleaning and organizing the café now carried a sense of anticipation. For the first time in a while, he felt genuine excitement about the future.

This was inspired by a Character.Ai. I'm not sure if I'll continue, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

#persona 5 #short story #akira kurusu #character ai #fanfic #ren amamiya #persona #x oc

1 note · View note

mysticdragon3md3 · 1 year ago

Text

my reactions to Summer Game Fest 2023 day 1

12:04 PM 6/8/2023 Prince of Persia The Lost Crown. Geoff wasn't kidding about "unexpected". Was not expecting a Prince of Persia game already. And it being about other characters going to rescue the Prince. Wait until they find out he has the Sands of Time. Nice historical reference, with the Immortal Corps. Going the Bayonetta Origins route, I see. Ubisoft Forward streaming on Monday? As part of Summer Game Fest? How many days is Summer Game Fest?

12:07 PM 6/8/2023 Hearing "Mortal Kombat is rebooting the first game" instinctively made me sad, like throwing away all those years of story from teh other games. But this trailer reminded me that the last game MK11 rebooted the timeline. It was good to see God of Fire Liu Kang. But why is Raiden called a neophyte? I thought he kept his memories in the rebooted timeline? And is Mileena the ruler of her world??? Not Kitana???? Man, this looks pretty. Jean Claude van Damme is Johnny Cage???? Did Ed Boone just say the original concept for MK was a Jean Claude van Damme game?????????

12:17 PM 6/8/2023 Did Ryu get brainwashed with a cybernetic device???? Cyborg Ryu? Is this that Street Fighter cyborg character? Upgraded to more mimic Ryu??????? Bikitoa Island? What? AI? Dinosaurs? Oh, this is that Exoprimal! What is this crossover? lol

12:19 PM 6/8/2023 Dead by Daylight is going ot have Nicholas Cage??????????????????????? Everyone laughing has to take it back now, with Nicholas Cage suddenly appearing on screen. But it's kind of sad that you can still hear some of them laughing while he walks on stage.

12:25 PM 6/8/2023 Why is Henry Cavil introducing the Netflix The Witcher season 3? I thought he left the series??????????

12:28 PM 6/8/2023 So is this a Witcher game now? "The Witch Hunt" Or is this one of those supernatural cowboy games that have been happening lately? Witchfire

12:29 PM 6/8/2023 What kind of game in this day and age uses live action clips for their videogame trailer????????? Is this a videogame or movie? Maybe it's for a VR headset? Crossfire Sierra Squad.

12:30 PM 6/8/2023 "The Root will destroy everything for all time." Did I hear that right? "The Root"? I like the creature design and the environmental design. A little sparse, but I like tentacles, really inhuman, uncanny design, and glowing veins "infecting" an environment. Remnant II.

12:33 PM 6/8/2023 Ok. What are you up to, Sonic? ^^ Retro gameplay but with prettier modern graphics. Looks good. ^^ Sonic Superstars.

12:34 PM 6/8/2023 Honkai Star Rail. I don't know much about Honkai or Genshin Impact. Are they in the same universe? I heard they have different gameplay. So is Honkai also a gacha game? Honkai is a turned based combat game, right? I really don't know what I'm looking at. lol Password: Playstation 5 What's that for?

12:37 PM 6/8/2023 Yesterday, I saw someone find some new eltridge body horror fanart for Winnie the Pooh, now that it's in public domain. When they wondered if body horror might be what happens to all public domain IPs, I immediately thought of Garfield, because of all the body horror eldritch art. But Garfield isn't public domain. Were they talking about Pinnochio? Lies of P

12:39 PM 6/8/2023 Game based on a classic manga? Is it Akira Toriyama? A desert? Trigun????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!???????????? …Yeah, Akira Toriyama. I'm going to confess something here. I grew up loving DBZ and I realize Toriyama is genius in the functionality of his character design, and he set a lot of Shonen Manga standards… But I actually dislike his art style. ;o; Sorry! SandLand

12:41 PM 6/8/2023 Double Fine is doing a presentation after the Summer Game Fest live show???????? o !

12:41 PM 6/8/2023 Isn't this music from The Nutcracker? Ah. AnnaPurna montage. They really are the A24 of gaming, as someone once said. Nice art and variety. ^_^

12:44 PM 6/8/2023 Throne and Liberty

12:45 PM 6/8/2023 War Haven The other day, I saw a movie trailer also doing a "needle drop", and it kind of killed my excitement. Maybe it took me out of the world's emmersion. Am I getting tired of vocal song covers in trailers?

12:47 PM 6/8/2023 Party Animals I liked their last trailer with the comedic explanatory tone. Not sure how I feel about the montage of clips of streamers reacting to the game. But it was fast.

12:49 PM 6/8/2023 Crash Team Rumble. I don't know much about Crash.

12:49 PM 6/8/2023 "Descend into madness"? Alan Wake II Oh, ok. IT'S BEEN 13 YEARS SINCE THE LAST ALAN WAKE?????? Will there be references to Control? I heard Control had some references to Alan Wake. During the last trailer, I was intrigued by playing more character POVs besides Alan, and that the FBI agent discovers Alan's writing is creating the situations she's in. That was interesting. This whole interview on stage was not interesting. Sorry. Maybe Remedy wasn't sure if they would have enough footage for this presentation until the last second, and they were planning for at least the stage interview as a substitute? Did Alan have a gun in the first game, or just a flashlight? I wonder if they idea of playing the FBI agent, was to allow for some gunplay. "Tatooed heart"?????????? Wait, do they think Alan Wake is the killer?

12:57 PM 6/8/2023 The only thing I know about Warhammer are joke warning about other people getting you into the series, and it's a story setting where destroying everything without regarding the valid sentient life of the enemy. lol "For the emperor!"? What? The player fights for an empire?

12:59 PM 6/8/2023 This is some pretty 2D art. "Brave at Night" studio. I thought this was an adventure game, but is it also a side scrolling action? Yes Your Grace: Snowfall

1:01 PM 6/8/2023 Interesting when the "rookie" being chewed out also sill has the "badass" character design. lol Refreshing she's also a woman. And that another female character is issuing commands. John Carpenter's Toxic Commando What? This was based on a movie? Is that why the creature designs look interesting, though plausibly could be done with foam rubber suits?

1:03 PM 6/8/2023 Baldur's Gate III Interesting to watch the voice actors in the booth. I don't know this actor playing Gordash though.

1:04 PM 6/8/2023 "Marvel Games"? u "Insomniac"????? ^U^!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Spiderman 2! ;U;!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! More on-stage interviews, but I love looking at the art projected onto the back of the stage, and I'm too excited for this game. Y'know what would be crazy? If the Symbiote took over Kraven. lol Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn? Oh? I heard some speculation that Miles's game took place in Harlem, even though he canonically is based in Brooklyn, maybe because Harlem was already in the first Spiderman game and reusing it save time/effort. So if Spiderman 2 is expanding to include Brooklyn, will they be moving Miles back there? October 20, 2023

1:09 PM 6/8/2023 Palworld So, Pokemon clone? I like that they're "pals". ^.^ Cute. They REALLY look like Pokemon creature designs!

1:11 PM 6/8/2023 Land of the Morning Light. Black Desert. "Land of the Morning Light" is an interesting way to say "Land of the Rising Sun". Explains all the Japanese mythic creatures.

1:11 PM 6/8/2023 Dwarf perspective? Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria.

1:12 PM 6/8/2023 "Exciting mobile game from a legendary franchise"? FF7! o! Yeeeeee! Let me hear Toshiyuki Morikawa's Sephiroth! ;u; Aw, he's trying to call Genesis! ;o;!!! I must say what I always say, when I see Genesis: "Genesis, you're a bad friend! ;o;!" Do better, Genesis! Why are Tifa and Aerith dressed in red battle gear? Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis "Speaking of Final Fantasy…" Geoff shut down all those gasps so fast! LOL I like that he recovereed by saying "gotcha". lol

1:15 PM 6/8/2023 Banishers? This is from the Life Is Strange studio, right? Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden

1:16 PM 6/8/2023 Modern day? I thought the historial era Yakuza was the new one being promoted? They're making a new Yakuza already? Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name

1:18 PM 6/8/2023 Parallel Studio Spot Light Is this going to be a horror game? I'm sorry, but claustrophobic darkness…Maybe giving me Soma flashbacks. SEAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! <3 Under the Waves. World Ocean Day is today? I think Ocean Conservation Namibia was doing some kind of livestream for World Ocean Day. Go watch them. They save the seals from plastic. A very good channel.

1:20 PM 6/8/2023 Call of Duty? I'm not even paying attention. Good time to listen back to SuperButterBuns' reaction stream.

1:21 PM 6/8/2023 Porsche? Is this Gran Turismo? I stopped paying attention when I heard "car" stuff. That is a big rainbow colored XBOX! I didn't know Porsche is known for rainbows. o.O

1:22 PM 6/8/2023 Faefarm. Geoff said "cozy games". ^u^ Is that an official genre name now? I've heard people calling Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, and Harvestella that. Can we call that the subgenre's official name now? ^u^

1:24 PM 6/8/2023 Marvel Snap. Wow. This dev is super excited. O.o Yay! ProZD! ^o^ ProZD parodying card games! ^u^

1:27 PM 6/8/2023 Ok. I like a dragon that's not a villain. Is this a King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table game? King Arthur: Legends Rise.

1:28 PM 6/8/2023 Wayfinders? Is this World of Warcraft? I do like a story about defeated heroes having to get up again. Wayfinder.

1:29 PM 6/8/2023 Unreal Editor for Fortnite? I thought people stopped focusing on building in Fortnite and focused on battle royale shooting instead.

1:30 PM 6/8/2023 Stellarus Nexus

1:30 PM 6/8/2023 Cute avatar for this scavenger game. Space Trash Scavenger.

1:30 PM 6/8/2023 Star Trek game. Yeek. Borg. i think they used to freak me out when I was little, but now I just imagine Boimler's sim from Lower Decks, and it's funny now. Star Trek Infinite

1:31 PM 6/8/2023 Will Arnet is voicing Sweet Tooth???????? Wait. Why is this a live action clip??? Is that Anthony Mackie?????????????????? This is totally overshadowing Twisted Metal being back. …Did they not trust people to be excited over a classic game returning? IT'S A TV SERIES ON PEACOCK????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

1:33 PM 6/8/2023 Ooh. Nice art style. "I'm here again." "That's another me." Sooooo….Rogue-like or Demon Souls-like? The ghosts are your army? Lysfanga: Teh Time Shift Warrior

1:35 PM 6/8/2023 Immortal of Aveum. "Kind of like Doom with magic." Has Geoff been listening to SuperButterBuns' reaction stream to that last Playstation Showcase? lol Nice to get an explaination for who the Immortals are and the worldbuilding lore.

1:43 PM 6/8/2023 Woah. Geoff's getting serious. Is this about Kojima? From Software? FF7!!!!!!!!!!! Wait. Why is Avalanch being taken away by search and rescue? I thought the last game ended with them on the road? 5 years. The world really is nice and green. She can appear as a monster…or those you love… "Did you know I killed her? So, who is she?" ARE THEY SAYING TIFA IS AN IMPOSTER? Then again, Sephiroth has a record of saying very untrue things with full conviction, so we'll see what's true when the game releases. But maybe it has something to do with Tifa's earlier dialogue, asking why Sephiroth returned now after 5 years?

1:48 PM 6/8/2023 Oh, that was the end? Has it been 2 hours already? Time to check my favorite streamers' reactions. SuperButterBuns ProfessorThorgi I wonder if Black Nerd Comedy is doing a reaction livestream?

1:51 PM 6/8/2023 Ooh! Tim Shaffer! Live event festival and digital showcase? Day of the Devs. Wishes Unlimited. Oh, this whole presentation is cute. Devs outdoors, hanging out in a room, playing games, posing for the camera, etc. Beastieball.

1:54 PM 6/8/2023 Hyper Light Breaker. So is this like Hyper Light Drifter? Wait. Is this a procedurely generated open world? Did they crack what No Man's Sky initially couldn't? "Fully ful visual storytelling". No cutscenes then? Ooh. Environmental storytelling. But through proceedurely generated environments? Isn't that hard to control what story is told? Interesting…

1:57 PM 6/8/2023 Devs: Stone Skip. "Chill and vibey"? Simpler Times. Devs hanigng out on the floor of a living room, listening to a record? This whole Day of the Devs has a really beautiful and cute presentation. I dare say, much better than a stage presentation.

2:01 PM 6/8/2023 Viewfinder. "The photos you take, become worlds to explore."

2:01 PM 6/8/2023 I'm sorry. I have to tap out. My legs hurt SO MUCH from sitting at my laptop in bed.

#reactions #SummerGameFest #summer game fest 2023 #livestreams #videogames #announcements #trailers #special events

0 notes

nnten · 7 years ago

Photo

HAPPY (LATE) BIRTHDAY LEKSI!!! (@elizabethliones)

thank you for waiting……..here’s your favorite girl !!!!

#nanatsu no taizai #elizabeth liones #nnt #my art #ah........the classic akira look #hope you had a good bday !! thank you for being so patient ^^#q #i hope u like this too......ily ;;;;;;#(click for better quality!!!)

88 notes · View notes

mrs-march-ahs · 4 years ago

Note

Hello There! Congratulations on 900! Could I please request headcannons for a soft make out session with James March? Thanks so much!

Soft Make Out Session with James March

soft jimmy makes me cry:’)

enjoy<3

-Kissing with James always led to sex

-Making out was actually usually just an excuse for James to quickly assert dominance

-Even though he totally loved it when you took over a little later on

-But he had a soft and sweet side to him, and sometimes what he needed was to have you close to him, holding you and feeling your presence

-During his whole marriage to Elizabeth, they only kissed on their wedding day, and never spent time together in close proximity

-But since James’ love language is quality time and touch, he loves nothing more than feeling you close to him, perhaps on his lap, making out softly

-He would want to have you in his arms and feel your body with his hands as you make out, but wouldn’t want to scare you, so he would run his hands down your waist ever so slowly

-If you sped up because you were getting impatient and horny, he would slow you right down

-He usually has one hand on your chin or your cheek, keeping you close to him

-He’s a little weird, but he thrives on the sound of kissing

-Although he may play some light classical music on his record player to set the mood

-careless whisper

-Loves kissing your neck for so long that light hickeys naturally appear without him trying

-Graze your teeth over his bottom lip and he may jizz his pants

-He’ll whimper and then cough to cover it up, embarrassed that you have such a strong influence on him

-Somebody will eventually knock on the door, interrupting your sweet quality time and he’ll flip, not wanting any distractions, because you deserve quality time with your husband

- “I’ll break the finger that dared to ring that bell!” ;)

-The person at the door (Iris or Hazel) will look at him and understand what’s going on, then promptly leave, not wanting to bother him

-He won’t understand how they knew that he was busy, but he’ll be glad they left and come right back to you

- “Maybe it’s something to do with the lipstick on your lips, Jimmy”

-He’ll flush a little red but laugh it off

- “Where were we?”

-The make out session begins very slow, just like right at the beginning, no matter how much you beg for James to speed things up

- “All in due course, darling, allow me to savour you”

━━━━━━♡♤♡━━━━━━

taglist<3

@milly-louise @amourtentiaa @kitwalker02 @tatestripedsweater @therenlover @maria-akira @tatesimper @thxc0untessesgl0ve @mossybank @ahsxual @mxlti-fand0m-imaginess @mrs-march-ahs-biggest-fan @kitwalkerangel @kitisagoldenretrieverboy @darlingkitt @blackbat2020 @divinerulerluvr @undeadcortez @whiiiiplaaaaash @elaineygrace @kaismessiahbb

#american horror story #ahs #american horror story hotel #ahs hotel #james march #mr march #james patrick march #james march x #james march x reader #james march imagine #headcannons #evan peters character

333 notes · View notes

yuzusorbet · 4 years ago

Photo

Continuing Kikuchi-sensei's book 'Strongly, beautifully,....'

Chapter 3

3.4 Looking at deviations of the torso 3.5 Icing as a recovery method (not translating these 2 sections; I may come back to do them after I have done the parts that interest me most.)

3.6 Experiencing the world's stage as trainer

The season after Sochi Olympics, that is, 2014-15 season. It was hard for Yuzuru to get into good condition. The 1st competition, Finlandia Trophy, he withdrew because of back pain. Yuzuru was in Canada and I did not know of his injury. I only knew about it from the news.

But, one week before GP series Cup of China, held in November 2014 in Shanghai, I received a message on my smartphone.

"Sensei, can you come to the competition in Shanghai please?" "Didn't you say that the Canadian trainer will accompany you?" I replied. After a while, "Sensei, come to Shanghai and do treatment for me please....?"

Because in the previous season, he had told me, "For competitions in Japan, please may I have your care, but for overseas competitions, the trainer in Canada will go with me, is that alright?" Perhaps he felt a sense of guilt. He was probably fiddling with Pooh-san's ear and hesitating for some time before sending the message.

"Alright, I understand. I will be there," I replied. I cancelled all my plans for the week ahead and went to Shanghai.

After a long absence, when I touched his legs, I felt the confirmation of his evolution, and also, in my heart, I felt some sense of relief that I could do treatment for Yuzuru again.

2014 December, GP series NHK Trophy in Osaka. Yuzuru, far from ideal condition, headed for competition. His short programme was only 78.01, and with scores lower than any he had in recent time, he finished in 4th place. He managed to qualify for the GP Final in Barcelona which was for only the top skaters of the GP series.

Right after NHK Trophy was over, Yuzuru came to my hotel room.

"Sensei, can you also come with me for the Final?" he said. "Oh? For Europe, the other sensei (Canada) will go with you, didn't you say that?" I was also being mean. "But, sensei,........" his eyes made the plea. "Ah, seems like it's unavoidable, shall I go to Spain and see Sagrada Familia as well?"

In this way, I was called back to be Yuzuru's personal trainer.From then on, for competitions in Japan and overseas, support for Yuzuru was done by me. Well, to him, I think it's because he has known me since he was little, and calling me "sensei, sensei" is easy and comfortable. But to me, it became a major event that happened in my life.

3.7 PyeongChang Olympic season, starts

2017-18 season, also an Olympic season. First competition, Autumn Classic, Yuzuru had a world record score of 112.72 for his short programme, breaking the previous record which was held by himself. The media, in anticipation of a 2nd Olympic gold, saw it as a good start towards PyeongChang Olympics, but......

After Autumn Classic, I met Yuzuru; his body that had been loaded with training, headed for competition at GP series Rostelecom Cup, could not be said to be in very good condition.

That not-ideal condition indicated the pressure of a 2nd Olympic win. In summer, he was pushing himself hard and the body was very overworked. The thoughts of 'must win' put a great burden on his legs. Putting multiple quadruple jumps into his programme layout was extremely demanding on the ankles.

I thought it was not so hard to win at PyeongChang Olympics if he maintained the level of record-breaking 2015-16 NHK Trophy and GPF. It seems his coaches also told him "you don't have to overdo it to that extent".

But, Yuzuru thoroughly pushes himself hard. "Not doing it, is not me" he says and continues to practise so that he can raise the level. Even if someone said "stop!" he would still continue to skate.

The Olympics becoming a heavy burden, there was not a single word of this from Yuzuru's mouth. He did not show it even in his behaviour. But when I touched his legs, I knew. To what extent was the harsh training he had put in.

For Yuzuru who has an overabundance of fighting spirit, I felt a sense of uneasiness. Unfortunately, my premonition came true. 2017 November, GP series NHK Trophy in Osaka, during official practice, he fell on a quad lutz. The ligaments of his right foot were damaged.

After he was injured, we were talking and joking and laughing. If we did not keep the mood cheerful, Yuzuru would be too pitiful. When he fell, I knew it was a serious injury. If it was the usual sprain, my treatment could help in some way. But not this time. Yuzuru had to withdraw from NHK Trophy. The trainer from Canada and a doctor took care of him and I returned to Sendai.

A long recovery period was needed for his foot. He was absent for Japan nationals. He remained in Toronto, undergoing treatment, and prepared for the Olympics. I could not be at peace. The condition of his injury, I only knew about it from the news, as usual.

It was about a month and a half before PyeongChang Olympics. Yuzuru's father, holding a form for registering the size of sportswear and blazer for the Japanese delegation, came to my clinic. Same as 4 years ago for Sochi Olympics. "How is Yuzuru?" I asked, but Yuzuru's father only smiled and nodded, as he always does.

But it was definite that Yuzuru would compete at the Olympics. What I could do was, no matter what the situation, to send him into the rink in the best condition. And I was ready.

3.8 Do carefully one by one

The free skate at PyeongChang was at an earlier timing than the usual competitions, and the practice started from 8.25am. Without getting all worked up like at Sochi, I could face it calmly this time. That morning, the taping for him was completed at first try.

Yuzuru did not say anything. Of course, his foot could not be said to be in very good condition. My role was to help him get the ideal feeling that he wanted in his legs and I believe it went very well. Warming-up also had no problems.

Supporting Yuzuru's beautiful performances are his well-trained body and senses. Elegant jumps and spins are created by his steady torso and ability to sense tiny differences. These are important for flowing movements. That is why Yuzuru is always concerned about the training of the torso and any deviations.

And so, about one year before PyeongChang Olympics, torso awareness training was introduced into the warm-up schedule. There was a video showing Yuzuru sitting on a bucket with wheels and moving around; that was one of it. People who saw it may have thought, "What is he playing?"

That is a custom-made product, a bucket-shaped chair fitted with wheels used for wheelchair basketball. To move around freely on it, one has to be very conscious of the transverse abdominal muscles that surround the abdomen, the erector spinae muscles that support the spine, and other such parts of the torso; it is a training device. It is well-known that the balance ball is effective for conditioning the torso. However, it is not enough for a torso that supports the flowing movements of figure skating. Quadruple jumps do not go directly above the head. They go forward 3 to 4 metres while rotating. And so, (thinking) can't we condition the torso while moving forward, backward, left and right, this bucket-chair was developed.

Usually I would say "next, bucket", and Yuzuru would sit on it and move around, like writing the character "ハ" (t/n. this is number 8 in kanji). At the warm-up of the short programme, he jokingly said, "Sensei, I've become good at this." For the free skate warm-up, even though I did not give the instruction, he himself went to sit on it and started moving around quietly. What he did was exactly the same as how I had pictured it in my mind.

As he often says, "When I am focused, I know very clearly what I need to do."

The last part of warm-up was always, still in gym shoes, jumping straight up with rotations on the spot. Doing this, one will know if there is any shift in the body's axis.

At this time, I once again felt "this guy is incredible..." and got goosebumps all over.

In the tension, there must have been countless times of feeling almost crushed by the considerable pressure. Nevertheless, he spent his days pushing himself hard, and studying and researching all that he could. And raise himself higher, refine his skills, brutally overwork his body...... 4 years of it, for the sake of this moment.

Perfectly conditioned. To Yuzuru who was heading to the middle of the rink for his free skate, the only thing I could do was to say, "(You're) alright, so just do carefully one by one." But I don't know if he heard me.

[end of chapter 3]

[some sentences are left out or summarised]

Translated by me from this Japanese book by Akira Kikuchi: https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E5%BC%B7%E%… (please consider buying it, if you can)

(photos: searched from internet)

#Yuzuru Hanyu #Akira Kikuchi #kikuchi sensei

135 notes · View notes