#also yes that is kazuki cooking

[leviiackrman]

“I really just want to hold you all so tight and make sure nothing bad happens to any of you ever again...”

more edits || character page || x.x

[thatbigbisexual29]

Playing with Fire gets you Burned (Buddy Daddies)

This is a fic for my best best friend @giggly-squiggily !!! It was their birthday and I wanted this to be a gift from me to her! So happy birthday girl!! (and sorry this is late 😭)

It’s very safe to say that after Rei and Kazuki's ‘retirement’ and the start of their new life, Rei became the biggest little shit anyone could have ever imagined.

With the loss of their assassin gig and a general lack of edge to their lives, the two could finally, finally relax. With all that relaxation also came freedom. Engaging in more playful activities with Miri, going to cooking classes, opening a restaurant, getting Miri into good schools, and doing a lot more things they never thought they had the time to do. Mini golf, more trips to the mall, going to aquariums, hell they even got to travel the world a few times. And their lives blossomed as well as new parts of themselves they didn’t know about. One example being Rei’s mischievous side. He didn’t show it often, but it was usually sparked by Miri’s encouragement. Or a lack of Miri in general.

There would be times where Kazuki would be minding his business when he’d be the victim of a prank or two that would come across as Miri’s signature pranks. The pranks are as follows:

Salt in his coffee when Miri didn’t drink coffee. Someone had smeared peanut butter on his shoe, making him think he stepped in poop. Miri absolutely hated anything poop related, especially jokes or pranks. On his computer, he noticed that the keys ‘b’ and ‘w’ were switched around, which he found out after commenting on his sister-in-law’s post about being a scary witch for Halloween. Miri doesn’t even know where Kazuki keeps his laptop. One day, he found a small cake in the fridge with a post-it note that said ‘SPONGE CAKE FOR REI’. Naturally, Kazuki tried a piece. Turns out, it was an actual sponge decorated with frosting and sprinkles. (He’ll admit he deserved that one.) 

The last notable prank was when he sat on a tack in his room on his chair. Miri hadn’t been home that whole day! She was at a sleepover with her friends! All signs pointed to Rei. He was thankful all these pranks didn’t happen in one day, otherwise he would have flipped out. But Rei certainly had it coming.

As Kazuki and Rei opened the restaurant that day, Rei knew he couldn’t pull any real pranks. Especially since he didn’t want either of them burning themselves on the stove. But that never stopped him from agitating Kazuki in other ways. Seeing as there were no customers and Miri was about to come down for her breakfast, Kazuki was making her favorite type of pancakes. The smell filled the house and dragged Rei from his sweeping duties and appeared behind the blond, wrapping his arms around his waist and placing his chin on the other’s shoulder.

“Shouldn’t you be working?” Kazuki asked with a grin, keeping his eyes on the food in front of him. Rei chuckled deeply which sent goosebumps up the older one’s spine.

“Heh, can’t I admire your cooking? It smells great.” Rei sniffed the air once again and let out a small hum at the fragrant odor. His arms held closer onto Kazuki’s waist and a sneaky little finger traveled its way towards his tummy.

Kazuki grunted and stood straight up as he felt something slowly circle his belly button. He’d better not, the blond thought. He did his best not to jerk away and squeal like he normally would and took in a shaky breath. A wobbly grin grew on his lips as he bit the bottom one, his hand slightly shaking as he attempted to hold the pan steady.

“R-Rei…” Kazuki started nervously. He could see the playful smile form on that bastard’s handsome face.

“Yes, Kazuki?” The former assassin replied, batting his eyelashes to fake his innocence. “Is there a problem?”

Kazuki growled then sputtered out a giggle as that tricky finger lightly scratched over his belly button. The blond choked out some adorable squealy giggles as he tossed his head back and backed up into Rei’s shoulder. Rei chuckled as he heard his partner laugh, taking the pan out of his reach and using one arm to flip the pancake in the air.

“Shohohow ohohohoff! EEP!” Kazuki squeaked as Rei dug his finger deeper into the spot. That really made him laugh. Kazuki yelled out hilariously and curled up as much as he could. Rei veered him to the side so he wouldn’t hit his head on the stove or burn himself, still smiling as he tickled the poor man.

“Rehehehehei! Let gohohoho! Wh-whyihihihihihihi?? Whyhihihi ahahahare you dohohohohoing thihihihis- wohould you GEHEHET OUT OF THEHEHEHEHEHERE!” The blond finally ripped himself away and covered his belly. His leftover giggles brought a bright smile to his partner’s face. The ravenette chuckled and turned off the heat, setting the pancakes onto a plate for their daughter, who raced down the stairs right on time.

“Good morning papas! Papa Kazuki, are you ok? You look tired,” the girl commented, eyes sparkling when she saw her breakfast. Kazuki panted a bit and glared at Rei. Rei smiled internally, forced a straight face and shrugged.

“It’s just a little jab. Grow up, Kazuki.”

Kazuki nearly lost it. He stood, about to ramble his mouth off before the doorbell chimed. Kazuki immediately faced the doorway with a warm smile and open arms.

“Welcome to the restaurant! What can we get for you today?” Rei and Miri giggled with each other behind his back. Kazuki smirked as an annoyed twitch took over his eyelid.

Alright Rei, he thought. You wanna play, do ya? We’ll see how you like it when I hit you out of the ballpark! he thought.

~~later~~

A dinner rush always had staff in panic mode. Thank god it wasn’t just Rei and Kazuki running the restaurant. Other cooks worked on food, waiters and waitresses took orders, people in the back washed dishes, everything was going well! Except…

“Gah! Kazuki, stop that!” Rei hissed as the blond man passed him once more. The man grinned and winked at his partner as he sped by, hot plate in hand. Rei grumbled and felt his side, a finger recently connecting against it that made him jump.

All night. All. Night. Kazuki had been poking his sides every. Single. Time. He passed by the former assassin. He was fed up at this point! He kept having to hide his yelps, squeaks, and jerks from his fellow staff and confused customers. Was this hell? Getting poked and squeezed repeatedly while slaving over a hot stove? By the description it certainly sounded like it!

Kazuki would sneak his hand to squeeze Rei’s side, pinch his waist, poke his ribs, slide a finger up his spine, even blow on his ears for Christ’s sake! The poor man. He was just trying to make his way through a dinner rush. Why out of all the days did Kazuki finally decide to take his (albeit, well deserved) revenge today?! Rei was torn out of his thoughts as he bit back a squeak. Kazuki had pinched his side again. In retaliation, the former assassin took his spatula and quickly smacked the blond’s backside.

“Eep!” he yelped, spinning to glare at his partner. “Now you have to go clean that! Hurry, on the double!”

Rei didn’t even try fighting back his satisfied smile. He quickly switched out his spatula and continued to cook, only Kazuki did not relent with his pokes and prods and squeezes. By the end of the night, Rei was out of his mind. He kept his cool until the two men were off the clock and properly showered. Rei, having gone before Kazuki, sat on the edge of their shared bed, bouncing his leg anxiously. As soon as he saw a glimpse of Kazuki, he was going to attack. But unfortunately for him, Kazuki was not stupid.

The blond man stepped out of the shower, refreshed and ready for the assault ahead of him. He slipped on underwear and sleep pants and made sure to only lightly dry his top half. Being slippery meant that Rei wouldn’t be able to get a proper hold on him. He also decided to play dumb.

“Oi, Rei!” he called from the bathroom. Rei grunted in response.

“Since Miri is with friends tonight, why don’t we watch a movie?” Kazuki had his back against the wall, hugging the corner in wait of who was going to make the first move.

“Sounds like a good idea.” Rei stood from his spot, fingers twitching with anticipation. “What movie were you thinking?”

“Maybe a mystery? Or a thriller would be nice.”

Rei smirked and crouched into a ready pose. “You hate thrillers.”

“Hah, you got me,” Kazuki chuckled. “You know I can’t stand the suspense!”

Kazuki curved around the doorway of the bathroom while Rei lunged for him. The dark haired man aimed for his waist in an attempt to grab and lift him, but Kazuki expected this. The blond stepped to the left then quickly twirled to the right. Rei, surprised by this, wasn’t able to react in time. Kazuki hooked an arm around his stomach and hoisted the skinnier man over his shoulder. The two had ridiculous smiles on their faces as Rei twisted in his partner’s grip, pushing at his face and back.

“Puhut me down!” Rei growled through a laugh. Kazuki let out a single ‘hah!’ and walked towards the bed.

“If you insist!” The blond man playfully slammed his partner onto their mattress and the fight for dominance began.

Rei hugged around Kazuki’s neck and tried to turn the tables but Kazuki wasn’t giving up that easy. They met halfway with them lying side by side. The blond hooked his leg around Rei’s and pushed, forcing the smaller man onto his back. They became a mess of arms, each of them trying to grab the other’s wrist to try and pin them down. Kazuki couldn’t help but laugh at the silliness while Rei had the goofiest smile on his face. After a few more minutes of this, Kazuki finally managed to hold Rei’s wrists in one arm and hold them above his head. They panted, then Kazuki began to giggle.

“Heh… whahat?” Rei asked.

“Miri’s right,” Kazuki wheezed, “we are getting too old for this.”

Both men chuckled before catching their breaths. They caught each other’s eyes before both of them blushed.

God, they thought, he still looks good. Rei shook his head and focused, still somewhat upset from the night.

Kazuki shook his head and grinned mischievously as he cracked his neck to the side. “Anything to say for yourself mister?~”

A giddy smile forced its way onto Rei’s features. He squirmed with vigor as he bit his lip nervously. His face flushed bright red as the hand hovered over his ribs.

“Kazukihihi…” giggles slipped from the former assassin's lips.

“Reiiii~” Kazuki cooed back. He slowly brought down his wiggled fingers, smiling even wider as his lover wiggled and squirmed under him in a desperate attempt to escape. He decided to stick out one finger and softly brush it back and forth inside Rei’s belly button.

Rei’s eyes shot out of his head as he pursed his lips together, shuddering and attempting to curl up to protect himself, but Kazuki’s finger was hooked. He wiggled it up, down, and swirled it around making Rei squeak and whine with a quivering smile overtaking his face.

“Oh? Is that a smile? Are you gonna giggle Rei?~” Kazuki teased, knowing his partner hated it. Rei’s face grew red very quickly as he shook his head from side to side, biting the inside of his cheek to try and quiet himself. Kazuki chuckled and softly skittered his blunt nails across Rei’s belly and sides, watching him shudder and jerk away from the ticklish feeling.

“Khhk- K-Kazuki! C-come ohon!” Rei hid his face in his bicep.

“You want me to do what?!” Kazuki said in exclamation, laughing when Rei shook his head more and chuckled.

“N-Nohoho you freheheak! Hahahahaha!” Rei couldn’t hold back any longer and laughed softly, his stomach shaking under Kazuki’s fingers.

Kazuki admired Rei. He loved how he smiled, relishing in the rare times he did. And his laugh was so funny. It was wheezy due to all his years of smoking and would sometimes cough between barks of laughter. He would be chuckling normally then suddenly switch to squeaky giggles. And when you tickled his neck, he made the funniest gargled laughs while trying to shove you off.

Kazuki squeezed his belly with one hand which made Rei wheeze and arch his back, his feet kicking against the mattress and sending the blankets askew.

“Hahahahahaha! Kazukihihihihihi! Plehehehehehehease!” Rei pleaded.

“Sorry, Rei. I can understand what you’re saying! I better get my giggle translator ready~” Kazuki grinned evilly as he saw the panicked look in his partner’s eyes, pulling up Rei’s shirt.

“H-Hey, no! Please don’t- Kazuki! No!” Rei tried to sound angry, but nervous giggles got in his way. Kazuki chuckled and held Rei’s hip down.

“Attaching giggle translator in five…”

“K-Kazuki- let’s talk about this! Here- I can work the register every night! For a week!”

“Four…”

“Okay- wh-what about dish duty? You can stick me on dish duty for a month! Yeah! That works doesn’t it??”

“Three…”

“I’ll give you a foot massage after every shift!”

“Two…”

“Kazuki please!”

“One!!” Kazuki pressed his lips to Rei and blew a big fat raspberry on his tummy. 

Rei screamed out a laugh, thrashing as if his life depended on it. Raspberries were his number one weakness. Plus, Kazuki grew that stupid little goatee which only added to the tickling.

“AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAA!!!”

“Hmm, I didn’t get a good signal. Once more!” Kazuki laughed and pressed raspberry after raspberry, watching as Rei’s face burned red with tears of mirth gathering in the corners of his eyes. He laughed and laughed and laughed, eventually pulling his wrists free and pushing at Kazuki’s head.

“Hehey wait! I wasn’t done translating!”

“Yehes you ahahare!”

The two men began to wrestle again, both of them laughing like kids as they tousled, tickling each other as they went.

After a while, they both lay and panted on the mattress, red faced and slightly sweaty. Rei looked over at Kazuki with a dumb grin on his face.

“Sorry for all the pranks… got a little carried away…” he huffed. Kazuki smiled back and shook his head.

“Don’t worry… I’ll get you back…”

[frozentrash]

About the last Buddy Daddies Episode.

A lot of people are talking about how Kazuki basically saw Rei and was like: let me fix him.

And I don't mean in a toxic way. More a let me help him get better you know?

And we LOVE that for Kazuki and Rei. They found each other when they both needed someone to be there.

But I can't stop thinking about how Rei LET HIM help him. As someone who also struggled with depression and the whole cleaning and eating and all that jazz not working, I know how hard it is to let people help you.

Rei let Kazuki clean the house.

He let him even bath him.

He let him cut his hair.

He let him cook and take care of him.

And that is so fucking hard. When I was at my lowest and in desperate need of help, it took a lot for me to let people in my house and let them help me clean the kitchen and all that.

So yes. I am very emotional about that.

I love them so so much.

[asexualshouyou]

Very cool how this week’s Buddy Daddies kinda makes commentary on how Japanese wives (with Kazuki being the “wife” in this case) bear the brunt of the work in the household, but also subverts the Weaponized Incompetence that too many men use on their wives.

Weaponized Incompetence is when a person will deliberately pretend to be helpless or not know how to do things in order to get out of doing things they don’t wanna do. (”You do it better than me, though”). In this case, Rei is not doing that. It seems like he’s just deliberately dropping the ball, but once Kazuki is out of the picture, it’s pretty obvious that Rei just literally doesn’t know how to do things and absolutely fumbles on his own. He’s not intentionally trying to shift the load onto Kazuki. He just has no life skills at all and grew too dependent on other people (mostly Kazuki) doing the basic things like cleaning, cooking, etc. for him without realizing it.

But as we see at the end of the episode, he’s willing to learn. He is stunted in his development through no fault of his own, but he is still an adult and not just any adult, either. An adult in charge of a child. This was kind of a wake-up call for him. So while yes, it’s frustrating in the beginning watching Kazuki bear the brunt of the load and not get much appreciation for it, Rei is still sympathetic in that he genuinely just doesn’t know better.

So we got interesting social commentary on how a happy (emphasis on happy because that comes up a lot in this episode), functioning household needs to have everyone doing their part, we also got some good development and insight into both Rei and Kazuki and their respective roles.

[soniadamasco]

I found what Miri said to Kyu about not wanting to go home interesting because it's been like three months at this point and she doesn't seem to show any signs of missing Misaki or wanting to see her mom again. And yet she did still say back in ep 2 that she hoped her mom wasn't lonely. Could it be that she's not as oblivious to her situation as it looks and that she knows to some extent that her mom isn't in a state to be in her life?

That's a very interesting observation and I agree with you that's it's strange how she doesn't seem to miss her mom. I thought about that for a while and, while like you I think that she's more aware about what's going on around her than we believe, something else came to my mind.

You see, since ep. 1 Miri has always been a very independent kid: travelling alone all the way to find her papa, always escaping and trying to do things by herself. While kids at that age love to explore and try their hands at everything, it's quite strange for me how calm she is in those situations.

I believe Miri is actually used to be an independent kid because she was pretty often left by herself. Misaki doesn't seem to be a "bad mom" as in like a violent or verbally abusive parent, but she's also a working single mother. When Miri sings her mom's song in ep. 2 I believe she's recollecting a memory, probably from being at one of her mom's shows. Since we know Misaki is struggling with money, I find it very likely that she might have brought Miri along to her job, where she was left alone while her mom was working.

Aside from Misaki having little time to spend with Miri because of her work, I don't think she ever tried to take care of her aside from her basic needs. Yes, she cooked for her, dressed her and she did all those other things you have to do to keep a child alive, but was she ever present emotionally? I don't think so, considering even those basic things felt like a burden for her. It's easy to do those things without caring for someone, just because you feel obligated, but it's way harder to fake an emotional connection.

I still believe Miri cares a lot about her mom, but I also think she's used not to be around her. The fact that she didn't freak out the first time Rei and Kazuki left her alone in the house makes me also think that Misaki might've already left her at home by herself.

Another thing that makes me believe there is very little emotional connection between Miri and Misaki is how she answers to Kyutaro when he asks her if her family misses her:

See how she deflects the answer towards herself? My guess is that probably she cannot understand the idea of her mom being worried about her, because she never saw that emotion in Misaki. Instead, she reassures him by telling him she's fine with living with her papas.

Why is that? I believe that Kazuki and Rei are giving her exactly what her mom couldn't give her, which is emotional care. Look how she continues with her answer:

Those are the two most important things she can think about to show how well they're taking care of her. Yes, Kazuki is naturally great at cooking, but remember how she didn't like his hamburgers at first? And remember how he bought the ones from the store and also the cereals which she likes? With just this he's showing her attention, he shows her that he cares about what she likes and is ready to follow that direction because he knows it will make her happy. She feels like he's listening to her and that's very important for a child.

Another very important thing for children is spending quality time with their parents, just like Miri does when Rei plays videogames with her. We know he's not the best socially speaking, but he found a way to connect with Miri through something that he knows how to do well. Even playing a game together is a way to grow an emotional connection and I believe Miri is aware that this is Rei's way to show he cares about her.

Lastly, she says another important thing:

Look at how sure she is when she says they'll always be with her. That is a sense of stability that no one else but Kazuki and Rei could give to Miri. She trusts that they will keep being with her because she knows how much they love her and there is no doubt in her mind. After probably being emotionally neglected by her mother, that's a huge thing to say, which shows how safe she feels around them.

At the end I still think Miri misses her mom, but she realises that Misaki could never give her the same love that Kazuki and Rei are showing her everyday. That is one of the most important things for a child. Actually, for every person regardless of age. Love is what makes you feel at home and now for Miri home is where Kazuki and Rei are.

[impromptu-sketches]

Buddy Daddies, final thoughts.

I had such a fun time watching this show one episode at a time every Friday morning. I haven’t been this tuned in to an anime in a long time but I was so excited about this one from the beginning!

It’s so weird thinking back to everyone saying “it’s like Spy x Family with two guys” because that became inaccurate so fast haha we really thought it was going to be a light-hearted comedy... they really got us.

I loved the Wednesday previews, the music (especially the lofi remix!), the instagram posts, the notes, and whoever started the bingo, bless you! ♡

♡❤♡❤♡❤♡❤♡

Overall Buddy Daddies was a rollercoaster (not ferris wheel thank goodness)! I really could not guess where it was going from episode to episode, it could have gone in a million different directions, but I am so happy that this is the story we got.

The way Miri burst into everyone’s hearts from episode one ♡ and for a four/five year old, was shown to be such a great kid who wants to be accepted, wants to make friends, who sticks up for others, and who tells people when they’re doing something wrong.

Rei starting out as a stereotypical quiet mysterious dark haired character but becoming SO MUCH MORE. Sure it took him a minute but he was the one who FOUGHT for their family the most - he became the GLUE. We all thought it was going to be Kazuki, but it was Rei. He said ‘I want to be a family’ and then they DID.

Kazuki on the other hand, the overprotective mama hen, he created their family. He CHOSE Rei, chose to move in, chose to take care of him, to buy him a couch, cook for him, and stay with him. He took one look at Miri, smiled and chose to run after her - he didn’t have to do that during their mission. He chose to risk the mission to save her, to call himself her papa, to take her home. This means so much more knowing he’s an orphan who never had a family - he went and created one.

♡❤♡❤♡❤♡❤♡

About the queerness specifically ~

From what I saw -from the show- if I knew nothing about it and just hit play and watched all the way through...

Rei seemed ace/aro to me. He’s not shown to have any romantic or sexual relationships past, present, or time skip. This guy grew up with ZERO affection so it’s either he doesn’t know how, can’t, or isn’t interested. But there’s no attempt or interest, so aro/ace it is! Even with Kazuki, we see him accepting help, them clearly forming a bond to be living together for three+ years and be partners doing dangerous work together - that requires a lot of trust and we finally see that trust and teamwork in episode 12 - but it’s unspoken between them. They’re not affectionate with each other, not physically close, etc. (that we see anyway).

Kazuki definitely seems bi or pan. He’s obviously into women, but he also does this thing where he’s kind of flirty with guys in a joking way? (see images below) To me that’s nervous bisexual energy. That’s just the overall vibe I get from him too. Also that look he had on his face when he first saw Rei... suspicious.

Would I have liked it if they showed each other more affection? Yes! Especially in the later episodes. If their relationship was canon? Hell yes! Because I like BL and I think it would’ve been cute and also made sense and added to their character development. 

There’s ~plenty~ of room to read into queerness in this show... I actually think it would be an even better story if they were in a relationship for a few reasons.

For Rei, finally being free to be his true self, being with someone for love and not for the family bloodline, to accept love and affection. And Kazuki, forgiving himself, letting himself be happy again, finding love again. I think that’s an amazing story for the both of them!

But they didn’t make it that way. This show isn’t (technically) a BL and that’s okay. They still both found happiness and family - and that’s what’s most important.

♡❤♡❤♡❤♡❤♡

Buddy Daddies was FUN and that could have been it but it was deeper than that, watching all of them grow and change together. The ending made me cry tears of joy and relief that they’re all happy and safe.

I have a few tiny things I didn’t like or would have changed, but they’re so minor looking back at the show as a whole.

I do wish they spread out the story, either with more episodes, longer episodes, or both. I wanted to see more small moments, more fluff, more day-to-day family activities, more Rei & Kazuki being friends and having regular conversations, and more assassin scenes with them working together like in the beginning of ep. 1 and in ep. 12. We mostly saw them mess up their work... I wanted to see more action!!

But the show did SO MUCH more than expected with this story. 

The ending episode was AMAZING!! We got to see them fight together for themselves and their family, we saw them being there for Miri, and the time skip!!!! I CRIED EVERY TIME I WATCHED THE TIME SKIP SCENE!!! Miri growing up to be a lovely happy healthy girl. Rei & Kazuki owning a diner at the beach. A simple life full of love and acceptance.

From episode 1, did I think Buddy Daddies would make me cry? NO

Did I think I would post this much about this show? NO I wasn’t planning on posting about it at all!

But here we are crying and spending all day/night on tumblr sharing our thoughts, reading the thoughts of others. It’s been a blast!

♡❤♡❤♡❤♡❤♡

*Update ~

I wrote all that ^ the weekend after ep. 12 came out and now it’s almost a month later.

I’m so happy to see everyone still posting about them ♡♡♡

Lily is still posting drawings - we’ve gotten so many great ones, official images from the DVDs are coming out, and I’ve seen so much fanart and fanfiction going around! Amazing!! Thank you to all of the creators out there!!

Shoutout to some fanarts on twitter I’m loving!

@KMRbd5118 ^

@tamsekai​ | twitter

@toroandpoko11

@NasuNattou

@dailykazurei

@incorrectbudds

♡❤♡❤♡❤♡❤♡

[mark-seins]

✿ The Taste of Home | Ephemer Week 2024: Day 2

prompt: Alternate Universe ; Sea of Stars

pairing: Kazuki Makabe (Keymaster!Kazuki) & Ephemer (Guardian!Ephemer)

rating: G

word count: 1258

Note: I just think Kazuki and Ephemer would get along well especially in the context of the AU ;w; two of my f/os bonding.

“What are you cooking?”

Kazuki lifted her head up upon hearing a curious voice from behind her and she turned to look over her shoulder. Ephemer, standing nearby the kitchen counter was tiptoeing to spectate what the other was cooking. She could tell his stomach was growling by how shyly he wrapped one arm around his stomach.

Smiling, Kazuki turned back to the pot as she continued stirring and answered to the white haired Guardian, “Curry. Would you like to be my taste test?”

“Er..” Ephemer stalled, which prompted Kazuki to turn back again from his hesitation. The boy tilted his head,

“What’s.. curry?”

Kazuki blinks. The boy hasn’t tried curry before? Interesting. “Do you not have curry in your world?”

Ephemer sheepishly scratched his chin with his finger, chuckling nervously. Kazuki could understand the overall nervousness of approaching her as a person no matter how soft she sounded, but she also wouldn’t be surprised if Keyblade Masters are just overall unapproachable due to the nature of ... well being a Keyblade Master. She then hears Ephemer answer,

“I mean... I probably did back in my birthworld... but Earth itself? Well it’s a bit of a desolate state as far as I can explain it easily, so food is usually scarce and Golden Age recipes are but a rarity.”

She watched him fiddle with the loose ends of his scarf. Whenever he speaks to people, he has to fiddle with something to have his brain focus and speak coherently. Mostly his scarf. This she was not unfamiliar of, but she makes her posture all but relaxed to signal him through her body language that he was no bother to her,

“Would you like to learn then?”

“Huh?” The kid perks up, stunned over the question. This perplexes Kazuki but she didn’t address it. In fact, his surprised look could only make the Keyblade Master giggle,

“Assuming this ‘Golden Age’ in your world is the same era as my world’s, I don’t think it would be a problem to learn some recipes now than never no? Besides, it could be something to boast to your fathers about.” Kazuki gave a playful wink, indulging in the chaos that was Ephemer’s personality. She saw the stars in his eyes twinkle in anticipation. Yes... Ephemera Agraeus, master chef of curry! Immediately, she saw a change of his shy demeanor than that of a goofy big grin as he rolled up the sleeves of his white turtleneck.

“Well what are we waiting for?! Let me at the stove!” He said, enthusiastically warping to the stove before Kazuki predicted where he would land and stand between him and the stove.

“Woah there, little man!” She giggled, “One step at a time. I don’t want you burning a place that isn’t yours... but I also don’t encourage burning your place up either. You can help me with the little things of the main course.” Says Kazuki, “I should’ve asked earlier... do you know how to cook at all?”

Ephemer pouted. He wanted to touch the fire machine! “My uncle and auntie taught me, but my memory isn’t good enough to retain much of it unless I do it multiple times! Which..” He sulked, “I don’t ... unfortunately. I don’t have time to do much mundane -.. human stuff.”

Kazuki listened and nodded. She wouldn’t say she couldn’t relate when she was around his age. The moment she piloted the Fafner, the world’s life was under her disposal. She only had certain amount of times to be human - herself, but slowly her own humanity faded the more she integrated herself to the Festum. Cursed to be an eternal, her heart and humanity had been gradually fading away. She wasn’t sure if she could taste her curry anymore.

Aside from herself, there were still humans that could taste and feel the warmth of food. She was just afraid to ask, or - well.. could she feel fear at this point? She couldn’t tell. She looked back to the pot before she adjusted the flame of the stove, stirring before scooping a portion of curry before she turned to Ephemer.

“Now’s your time, yes?”

Ephemer blinked as he looked up to Kazuki again. She begins to explain,

“As much as I look human, I can no longer taste food or feel emotions.. I don’t think.”

Ephemer stayed near Kazuki, listening. Cannot taste food or feel anything..? Is she diseased?! “So then,” Ephemer began, “Why do you still cook? Why do all of that when you can no longer taste or feel? I feel like if you can’t be some bit of human, humane things are less enjoyable.”

Kazuki smiled softly at Ephemer’s questions. That was something she found endearing to the younger humans and those around Mimi’s age. No matter the circumstances, they were always so curious of the unknown - braving to seek knowledge and understanding those around them. Hearing, feeling, connecting. It was because of them that there was still hope for a future where humanity still exists within those of mortal and eternal lives.

Though one of his questions stood out to her. Why does she cook? She could think of many reasons, but in the context of what Ephemer had said, if she was no longer human then why does she still cook if she cannot taste the curry or feel the warmth of a freshly cooked meal? To Ephemer, it was the ability to taste and the sensation of warmth that was part of humanity. One could say Ephemer sounded dehumanizing, but Ephemer was eternal wasnt’t he? Guardians lived another life forgetting about their previous life to live their second chance eternally as long as their Ghosts weren’t shattered. To Kazuki, Ghosts to her are the hearts of all Guardians. They cannot live without them, and Ghosts cannot live without their Guardians either.

Kazuki had nothing of sorts. Though she felt that doing the simplest things, like cooking...

“...Cooking was the best I could do when I was human alongside many other things. Even if I cannot taste anything, or feel anything anymore... just doing it still makes me feel human.” She answered, rather slowly as her thoughts for a well thought answer were piecing together as coherently as possible, “I still enjoy it, even if I lose a bit of humanity. Because if I stop, what left of humanity would I have?”

Then followed silence. She did say a lot, so she gave Ephemer time to process what she had just said.

Ephemer meanwhile, was glued to where he was as she spoke. He could feel it in her voice that she was saddened for most things she couldn’t do anymore. He felt it in her voice this gentle self resentment... guilt? That poisoned her words. He’ll have to admit, there was something about Kazuki that was familiar to her, but he didn’t know what. He looked to the curry and the plates of settled rice she had prepped for the group, reflecting. Despite every part of humanity stripped away from Kazuki, she still continues to do these things to keep whatever could be possibly left of her humanity. One day, her heart could no longer be there - and he would still see her in a kitchen cooking for him - her companions - for people that can taste and feel the warmth of what can feel like home.

He clenched his fists briefly, Ephemer closing his eyes before he asked,

“...Miss Kazuki?”

“Hm?” She hummed, looking to Ephemer curiously.

“...May I taste the curry for you?”

[jiminguuk]

Something about people calling Kazuki Malewife is just…weird. Yes he does the typical “wifely duties” stereotype, but Kazuki is a BIG guy. He’s definitely a more emotionally intelligent person. Idk I get the joke and I do think it’s funny to an extent, but it’s also very misogynistic. I see Kazurei kinda like Cam and Mitchell from Modern Family. Cam stepped up and took the care taker, nurturing role while Mitchell was more of the provider. Cam is outgoing, involved with the school, cooks, cleans, etc. I don’t recall people referring to Cam as a malewife even though he fits that role more than Mitchell. Most monogamous families have similar characteristics. I don’t think referring to Kazuki as a malewife is bad or wrong. But I do think, as a gay person, it’s important to evaluate how people seem to automatically get in the mindset of a marriage, family, relationship having a male and a female. For example: “who wears the pants?” Or “who is the man” when referring to a queer relationship. Queerness should never be put into the same box as a heterosexual relationship because, well, it’s anything but heterosexual.

Anyway, saw some posts yesterday on multiple platforms calling Kazuki a malewife and I laughed a little but then I kept seeing it. I just don’t want folks to be comfortable with gendering family roles because there are so many families that are not male and female. Maybe I’m contradicting myself a bit because I laugh at those posts but I also hate the fact Kazuki is automatically expected to be the female. Maybe I just think the word Malewife is funny and ridiculous?

[possiblyhomer]

BD fanfic idea because yes, I'm still coping

Starts off with more angst.

Rei decides he can't loose Kazuki too, so he packed his bags, gives ownership of their apartment to him, and plans to leave while Kazuki's asleep.

Problem is: Kazuki couldn't sleep, and was able to confront Rei just as he was at the door, taking one last look at his true home

Kazuki just lost it at that. But before he could spiral out of control, Rei hugged him. Tightly.

"We just lost Miri because of who I am. I can't lose you too. I'll be away for a while. Will you wait for me?"

"Don't do anything stupid." Kazuki told him and sends him off with another hug.

After returning to the Suwa estate. Rei takes on more hands-off positions to prepare him for becoming the boss.

During that time, he secretly sends Kazuki letters hidden in files of his targets. Kyu's in on it too,

Few years later, he officially becomes THE boss. And his first order? To get rid of his father.

By this time, thanks to the compassion he learned from his time with his true family, most of the organization's more loyal to him than his psychopathic boss.

One day, Kazuki hears the door being easily unlocked.

The moment he saw Rei, Kazuki immediately tackled him in a hug and a kiss before Rei could even say "I'm home".

They catch up over dinner, feelings are felt, confessions are made, and they woke up at noon the next day in eachother's embrace.

With his new position, Rei is able to let Kazuki retire from being a Hitman and even help him open and fund a restaurant so that Kazuki could see people express appreciation for his cooking.

After everything settled down, they met up with Misaki and told her that now that both of them are in relatively much safer jobs, they'd like to help her with her treatments so that Miri could have her mother for longer, even if it's just for a bit more.

They (including Kyu) eventually became close friends, Kazuki sometimes even gossip with Misaki.

The organization, under Rei's "rule", became much closer knit like a big family. So not only does Miri get to have all 3 of her parents, she also gets a lot more aunties and uncles.

Years later, Misaki passed away surrounded by friends and family. In her will, she entrusted Miri to Kazurei fully... under one condition.

"For the love of God, one of you just propose already." Turns out both of them, on 2 separate occasions, asked Misaki to help them choose an engagement ring.... Which happened 2 years ago.

Even if they can't get legally married, nothing's stopping them from arranging a ceremony.

So later that year, on Christmas Eve, what was supposed to be a fun anniversary of how they found each other turned into a "suprise wedding" on top of a very familiar tower.

It was Miri's idea. She asked Kyu for help and he had the most loyal members of the organization help out.

Yes, Miri's the cutest and most beautiful flower girl ever. Yes, Kazuki did bawl his eyes out. And if you saw Rei shed some tears, no you did not.

[giggly-squiggily]

Spontaneous Headcanon #24

Okay- here me out. I know there’s only two available episodes of Buddy Daddies and I know we’re still super early in the show but I had this cute idea and now I wanna share it with you all.

Under the cut for length and also potential spoilers for Buddy Daddies! I’m gonna try to keep it Spoiler free though :D

Also TW: for gun imagery for one of the images!

So Rei Suwa

My Husband. I have a weakness for tired brunettes A man of Duality. No matter what the occasion is, he’s always wearing that same neutral if not somewhat apathetic expression.

Miri- sweetheart, and absolute bean of a 4 year old- starts to notice this no matter how Rei’s feeling. He always looks so tired and just...yeah. One day she turns to Kazuki like: “Papa Rei looks sad.”

Kazuki’s about to explain to her that he’s not sad, that’s just his face but then he starts to think about it and is just ‘...Have I ever seen Rei actually smile?’ The answer is yes, only in very...extreme circumstances.

Now he’s looking at Rei who’s spacing out at the table with his coffee, thinking if he should do what he’s thinking of doing. There’s a highkey chance he’ll get evicted; the threat of being kicked out has been a common theme in any and all attempts Kazuki’s done in the past. (At one point a knife was drawn- Kazuki had no idea where Rei even hid it. No one was stabbed.)

At the same time though...Rei never actually went through with said threats in the past four years they’ve been living together...and frankly- he kinda needed Kazuki to survive. (The man can’t cook and his sleeping habits are...odd- he kinda needs someone to watch over him.) Plus they’re partners in work so he should be fine right?

Also they have Miri now. That might soften the blow?

Now Kazuki’s gears are turning, he turns to Miri and does a exaggerated “Shhh” Gesture before beginning his slow ascent towards the unsuspecting man. Miri is giggling like a goon, but Rei’s used to it so he doesn’t think much of the matter.

“If you tickle me, you die.”

Okay- maybe he’s more suspecting afterall. So much for stealth.

Kazuki and Miri look at eachother. Then they look at Rei. Then they both silently decide they had lived a good life (or at least- Kazuki decides that) before both pounce on the tired man, Kazuki going right for the armpits while Miri’s kinda bouncing beside them, cheering him on.

And Rei finally, finally laughs! And it’s a pretty one too- lots of soft huffs of laughter and snickers. He’s trying not to curse out Kazuki because Miri’s literally right there. Now he can’t even fight back because she decided she wanted to be up close to the action and crawls into his lap, her own little hands tickling him too. He’s been effectively trapped!

“Haha, We got you now, Rei!”

“Hehe, Papa Rei’s laugh is funny!”

By the time they let him breathe, he’s flushed faced with his head against the table, arms pressing tightly into his sides as Kazuki and Miri do their celebratory victory dance.

Until Rei sits up with the scariest look in his eyes. The look he reserves for jobs involving hunting down bad guys. “Run.” Is all he says.

Miri and Kazuki are GONE. It becomes an impromptu game of hide and seek only if Rei finds you you’re getting tickled to near death (reserved for Kazuki. Miri gets more gentle tickles and the option to hunt down her papa).

[dk-wren]

Hello....Can I ask your top 5 favorite moments each from Buddy Daddies and Spy x Family? If the two families ever meet, who do you think Kazuki will be besties to (Loid or Yor)? Why? Also, do you think Anya can be bff with Miri? Sorry if you've answered this questions before...

Hello Anon!

Thank you for the ask! Also, I'm sorry for taking some time to respond. And no need to apologize! I haven't answered these questions before, but even if I had, my favorite moments for Buddy Daddies and Spy x Family change over time and depend on how I'm feeling, so I'd probably have different answers anyways. Plus, I'd never pass a chance to talk about these two shows! I'll stop talking now and just get to it! I hope you enjoy!

5 Favorite Moments from Buddy Daddies:

Rei & Kazuki storming Suwa Manor (ep. 12)

Rei calling himself Miri's papa (ep. 3)

Miri getting her own room (ep. 4)

Car discussion on Rei's birthday (ep. 8)

Ferris Wheel Scene (ep. 10)

5 Favorite Moments from Spy x Family:

Loid telling Anya "Let's go home" (ep. 1)

Loid "winning" Anya the stuffed penguin, a.k.a Agent Peguinman (ep. 13)

Loid's entrance at Camilla + Dominic's party, along with him standing by Yor (ep. 2)

Princess Anya (ep. 5, especially when Franky is quizzing Twilight and at the top of the castle)

Yor leading Olka, Gram, and Zeb to their new room (ep. 31)

I'll put my explanations at the bottom of this post so I can get to your other questions. That way, I can still explain why I chose each moment, if you're interested in knowing, and it helps a bit with the formatting. I'd also like to add, the order in which I listed each moment does not correlate to how much I love each moment comparatively to the other ones (maybe with the exception of #1). Narrowing it down to five for both shows was already a hard task, so just know, I really, really love the moments or scenes listed aboe.

Now, for your next question, if these two families met, I honestly think Kazuki would kinda be besties with both. I do see Rei being besties with Yor moreso than Loid, so if going for a one-to-one pairing, then technically, that means I see Kazuki being besties with Loid.

It's discussed throughout Buddy Daddies, and clearly shown in their depictions/portrayals, that Kazuki is more of the social butterfly and talker between him and Rei. That's one reason why Kazuki would likely get close to Loid and Yor, through spending equal amounts of time with each of them. Also, in taking charge of many of the household chores, Kazuki would be able to connect with or trade tips/stories with Loid when it comes to cooking and Yor when it comes to cleaning. Even in terms of their jobs, Kazuki connects with both Loid and Yor (he is the "disguise guy" between him and Rei, and he does a lot of retcon/information gathering, but by name/occupation, he is a hitman or an assassin, who can certainly stand his own ground). Being able to hang out and easily talk with both Yor and Loid could also be a part of Kazuki's personality. I feel that Kazuki could talk with Loid or Yor in a way that feels like it's a conversation specific to the person he is talking with, and not just him making small talk. Kazuki would become besties with both Yor and Loid because, I'd argue, he can connect to each of them in different ways but that make the other feel seen and heard.

If I had to choose though, then I'd argue Kazuki would be besties with Loid if these two families ever met. I feel like they'd connect with each other just a little more over cooking for the family and the mutual panic that strikes each of them when another family member does something unplanned or unexpected.

And for your third question, do I think Anya can be bff with Miri, possibly, leaning more towards yes. We've yet to really dive into Anya's backstory (though I think we're all anticipating it will happen soon), but I get the impression that Anya's first real friendship is with Becky. At first, there was a real big sister-little sister dynamic in Anya and Becky's friendship, which has begun to evolve. Given the type of classmates Anya has, and their attitudes towards her/each other, Anya might be affected by those interactions and also sorta take Miri under her wing, teaching her about all the things she's picked up on at Eden since Miri's getting a completely different schooling experience at Aozora Daycare.

I do think Anya and Miri would be friends, but it will take some time for them to become super close and move away from that sister dynamic I feel might initially develop. Again, even if Anya is actually 6 (and not 4 or 5), the way the other children in her grade level act is quite mature. So, I honestly think it would be a good thing for Anya to be able to hang out with and do normal(?) things a four year old does. While Anya finds or makes her own fun in between studying and trying to earn Stellas, spending time with Miri may provide Anya the opportunity to live out her childhood too and feel what it means to just be four. The settings for Buddy Daddies and Spy x Family, along with the tone in some cases, can be pretty different from each other, so Anya getting the chance to spend time with Miri, and not have any other worries or stressors to deal with would probably be a good thing for her. And in having fun together and sharing experiences that result in positive memories, Anya would begin to look forward to spending time with Miri, which, if she doesn't already, would eventually lead to an acknowledgement that yes, they are friends, and based on the good Miri may bring to Anya's life, they are bffs.

.

.

.

Thank you again for the ask, Anon! I had a lot of fun answering these questions, especially since I'm always up for a BD and SxF crossover!

And again, apologies for the delay in my response! I really enjoyed your questions so I wanted to give myself the proper time to think them over and write out my response. Let me just put a reminder here again, but the reasonings for my 5 favorite moments will be after this section, if you would like to know!

Feel free to send my way any other questions or musings about Buddy Daddies, Spy x Family, or both, Anon!

-Dakota Wren

5 Favorite Moments from Buddy Daddies

Back in May, I did a 30 Days of Buddy Daddies challenge or prompt. Day 7 was "Favorite Scene" and that has not changed. I wish I had a better or more coherent explanation, but this scene of Kazuki and Rei storming Suwa Manor, I can never get enough of it. Like I mentioned in that explanation, I think the reason why I enjoy this moment so much is because we are seeing Kazuki and Rei working together, and seeing just how well they can work together on the job. And one reason why I think they are working together so well is because they are both fighting for or working towards the same goal, or for a future together as a family, with Miri. In these scenes/moments, Kazuki and Rei are essentially putting everything on the line if it means they have a chance to leave freely and live the life they both want now.

In all seriousness, I have no idea how many times I have watched the clip of this moment. And no matter what number rewatch I am on, this moment always makes my heart melt. Rei finally stepping out of his father's shadow to rise up and be the one to "save" Miri and Miri instantly accepting him as "Papa Rei" and running to him. Now knowing his arc and how much Rei grows over the series, this moment also feels like the start or one of the earlier milestones that eventually leads him to take on his father.

Nothing but fluff in this post-credits scene. My reasoning truly does not go beyond Miri is so indescribably happy to get her own room and Rei and Kazuki are so happy to see their daughter already in love with her room. Each of their reactions is just so sweet and, to me at least, shows how quickly they are growing close as a family.

I was debating of whether or not to choose this scene or Rei and Kazuki's discussion in ep. 11 at the safehouse. In the end, I chose this scene because of how they both somewhat acknowledge how much they've grown since they first met/moved in together, and perhaps the lingering sense of optimism they both feel in that moment about whether or not they can change. There is this feeling of them beginning to see that their individual futures and their futures as a family, with each other, and with Miri might be a light that will lead them out of the darkness and how they are both more than their jobs and their pasts. And yes, those feelings are still around in that ep. 11 discussion, but I like how in ep. 8, there is still a bit of uncertainty about what comes next (and not necessarily in bad way) as opposed to ep. 11, where they both realize what must be done.

To completely counter the previous moment/reasoning, it's a little ironic how this is one of my favorite moments and yet it is a moment that manages to always destroys me. I've also talked about my reaction to this scene before, but it is the defeat that both Kazuki and Rei feel in this moment that they could not change or continue to provide for Miri which breaks my heart. It is this recognition and, while perhaps not fully willingly, choice to give up Miri in hopes that she can experience and live a normal childhood that shows how much they have indeed changed for the better. They are putting Miri's life and happiness above their own. Before Miri, I get the impression neither Rei nor Kazuki thought they were capable or deserving of such happiness. So to see them agree that it is better for them to give that up than to bring harm to Miri, the source of that happiness, speaks volumes. Also, seeing Rei and Kazuki both acknowledge how much Miri has changed their lives in that year makes me so emotional.

5 Favorite Moments from Spy x Family

I'm pretty certain I've talked about it before, but Spy x Family is what got me into anime. After getting lunch together, in their car, a good friend of mine literally sat me down and said we are watching this and we are not leaving the parking lot until we finish at least the first episode. There are several moments from this episode which I enjoyed, laughed at, and loved, but this moment in particular is what made me really fall in love with this show and think to myself, okay, I'm gonna give this show a chance. And boy, look what grew out of it. Aside from the memories associated with this moment, I love how vulnerable Anya and Twilight are to one another in this moment, even if they are both not being completely honest with each other (since it would blow their secret identities).

Something about Twilight trying to go "for the mission" during this moment, but then seeing Anya's big smile is just, ahhh I don't know. The circumstances for their family outing to the aquarium is to keep up family appearances, or the illusion that the Forgers are a real family. I think that I like how in this moment, Twilight is still trying to keep up that front of him returning to the group with the penguin plush, and explaining his absence as due to his concentration on trying to win it for Anya, when he obviously was working on a secondary mission. And yet, Anya overhears/understands his thoughts, yet this penguin means everything to her still (as seen in her reaction in ep. 21 when Bond gets jealous)

This is a moment that continues to stand out to me like it does to Yor. Sure, Twilight might have been saying these things to not blow his cover/convince Yor that he is a perfectly normal citizen, but to Yor, hearing those words gives her the recognition she seldom received in terms of sacrifice for her family, and how much she should be proud of/appreciate the work she does. While neither characters nows it, and this may possibly just be my own interpretation, I also enjoy how Twilight's words almost seen chosen based on a vulnerability he feels he can expose ever so slightly through the guise of his current cover. The slightly unintentional bond that forms between Twilight and Yor in this moment, and the impact his words clearly have on Yor, makes me even more excited to see what Yor's reaction will be if/when an identity reveals happens.

Ep. 5 in general is one of my favorites and how the animators expanded on the castle scenes from chapter 6. I love how Loid, with a little bit of prodding from Anya and Franky, absolutely does everything in his power to treat Anya like a real princess, her adorable little crown, and her genuine excitement over seeing Loidman and all the things he must do to "save the princess." I don't think it's farfetched to say, that this is the most individual and special attention Anya has likely received since escaping the labs, making her appreciate everything Loid did for her even more. The culmination of her love and appreciation for that night and since Loid adopted Anya in her promise to do well in school is the cherry on top for me.

There are a lot of moments from the Cruise Arc that I was debating between, but this is the moment I chose because it really shows off Yor's other skills. The way she is quick to improvise, detecting who and where are her threats, and the confidence she has in taking down any potential threats. It's nice to see Yor in her element and see examples of why Thorn Princess has such notoriety to her name.

[sashka-hapa]

Kazuki is bottom and I have arguments!

He has experience of sex. And he looks like a man who is really good at it. And he was married, couples after a long stay together often begin to experiment in bed. And Kazuki could very well have experienced anal sex not only as a top, but also as a bottom. He could basically have any anal sex, even if and only with women.

2. Rei's father apparently forbids any relationship. Rai couldn't have a girlfriend or a boyfriend because his father wouldn't let that happen. Rai is a virgin, just a fact. And he has no experience in anal sex, because he never had sex at all. He does not know how to prepare for anal sex as a bottom. And he doesn't even do basic things to the fullest, doesn't cook, doesn't clean, he obviously won't bother just to have sex with Kazuki. Rei can be bottom after a long relationship with Kazuki, because only after that he will have an understanding of anal sex and a desire to do something for Kazuki. (Yes, take it and get confused to make yourself an enema, prepare yourself, lubricate, you understand)

3. Kazuki and Rei are trope power bottom/service top. An experienced Kazuki and Rei who has absolutely no experience. Literally deprivation of virginity. And someone thinks that Kazuki would make Rei go get himself an enema? It would be too embarrassing for both of them.

English is not my native language, if I wrote somewhere wrong or strange, then tell me about it.

[seekers-who-are-lovers]

Note: An emotional episode 3 of “Buddy Daddies” came out last night. So yes, here I am again trying this out based on a head canon I have. Thank you @flashfictionfridayofficial for this prompt: Fine by me.

Fandom: Buddy Daddies

Relationship: Kazuki Kurusu & Rei Suwa, Kazuki Kurusu/OC female

Rating: Teen up

Words: 756

Kazuki was too wild to feel shame. Rei posited. His friend didn’t have any qualms hopping into bed with potential female targets as easy as 1-2-3 to obtain information. As it turned out Rei dared not to imagine it at all.

“Someone has to do it. Besides, it is only part of the job. It is called acting. Two birds in one stone,” Kazuki once said. “What? Wouldn’t you?” He heard Rei scoff in disbelief. There were still so many things he didn’t know about his friend.

“I am not that desperate. Also you are one of the worse actors I’ve ever known,” Rei quipped.

The dark-haired man couldn’t imagine having sex with a person he barely knew. Let alone when there was no previous connection at all. If he were honest with himself, the conversation irritated him. His friend irritated him. With this stance. With this predicament he brought with him in. One way or another, one had to do it. And the only one who was willing to do it was Kazuki. He remained stoic for the rest of the day focusing on his video game. Like he always had been. His left fingers quickly interchanged when touching the Nintendo buttons as his right hand wiggled the joystick. Cigarette smoke permeated the luxurious living room. Kazuki sighed. He didn’t exchange a single word with his friend on that day anymore.

When Kazuki left the loft at eight in the evening, Rei immediately zipped up his blue jacket, put his pair of sturdy black leather Italian shoes on and closed the door. No need to ride on his motorcycle. Stealthily, he trailed behind Kazuki and the woman, who were walking along the Sumida River promenade hand in hand. The contact person, an assistant manager of the department whose boss they were targeting, had a Sehnsucht on a romantic escapade. Rei hated to admit it but he couldn’t blame the woman. She was a bit older than his friend. It was first and foremost Kazuki’s charm that draw Rei to him. He was a Sonny boy. His manners were impeccable for an assassin. His love for domestic life belied his true nature: ruthless and a stickler for meticulous planning and strategies when contracting a deadly assignment. Apart from that his above-average hand-to-hand combat was commendable. If he was determined, he could easily shoot the target earning them the wound of a lifetime or a hole six feet underground.

Rei saw them stop in front of the Italian BBQ restaurant Land_a very close to the park facing the river. The formidable Tokyo Skytree can be seen from where Rei was standing. He could see the earnest face of his friend as if he was enjoying wooing the woman whose name Rei never bothered to remember. They were at the terrace choosing a table away from the rest of the customers. He could see them cajole, play footsies with each other. Kazuki felt at home with the woman as if he’d known her for years. He was touching her luxuriant long black hair, sniffing the strands like a Victorian gentleman. The woman couldn’t stop smiling.

———

A few hours ago.

“Your dinner is inside the fridge. Remember to warm it up in the microwave. Best to add some water to make the meat more tender.” Kazuki felt like he was speaking to a wall. Rei was so closed off he almost lost his patience. There were days he didn’t see the point of cooking good food and cleaning the loft when he felt under appreciated. So better to leave him alone. Closing the doors, he shouted to no one in particular.

“Don’t wait up!” Tonight was the night.

———

Rei couldn’t take it anymore. He walked back toward the old district of Asakusa choosing the narrow backstreets to avoid the crowd.

If Kazuki would see him right now he’d probably laugh at his face. He was deep in thought when he heard mournful cries from a cat attempting to escape its tattered huge box that disturbed his rumination. He came nearer and the calico kitten caught his eye.

Abandoned animals. How many were there hovering around in the metropolis Tokyo? Unknown, uncared for. The creature was docile despite being born on the street. He didn’t have a shopping bag with him so he placed the animal inside his jacket. It did not struggle and quickly found a home inside it. It was a beautiful creature. The fur was smooth if not a bit dusty. He could clean it up, remove the crusty buildup around its eyes, make the cat new. He felt his heart beat faster. He wanted to care for this cat. He wanted to care period. Whatever this setup with Kazuki was, it was fine by him. He traced the steps back home.

[himebushou]

THOUGHTS ON EP. 11 BEFORE I JUMP INTO THE TAG!

What?

And I mean WHAT?

The last thing I expected in this episode was for Misaki to die?? Poor lady. I was pretty mad at her earlier on in the episode because she kept making it sound like Miri had lived in some miserable conditions or something (and Misaki saw with her own eyes that Miri's room was wonderful and etc.) but... phew. Really glad freaky Ogino didn't get to hear her last words. I have a lot of pity for her and I think she could have had more light in her life.

And ew, I found myself pitying Rei's stupid pops, too. The way he said, "Everything just as it always was," highlighted just how much of a traditionalist he is, but I also got the impression that he also felt trapped by the weight of the Suwa name and the mess he inherited. However, Rei wants to break the cycle while Suwa Shigeki didn't even ever consider that a possibility, so...

But man, if he gets some kind of redemption, I will punch a cushion in anger!!

I SO THOUGHT Kazuki was going to manage to kill Ogino? I was literally yelling, "YES — KILL HIM!" as I was watching, lol. I find it a bit flaky that Ogino left Kazuki alive considering that Kazuki was literally a target, but I guess the justification in the writing (that Ogino only does one job at a time) kinda holds water? Hmm.

I love how Kazuki yelled, "REI!" as a fake out and was pretty sad that Rei wasn't actually there but phew, Kyuu-chan to the rescue! And man, I was so proud of Rei for PHONING KAZUKI and COMMUNICATING and man, Kazuki really is the brains, huh? I love them both so much!

I'm glad that we got a scene of Miri wondering where her papas are because I was feeling a bit hard done by when it seemed like tiny pop had just moved on. But phew. How are they going to explain to her that Misaki's not coming back —

I loved the montage at the beginning, too. Rei losing at games and Kazuki losing all will to cook... though I nearly started bawling when I saw Miri's empty room. And Kazuki wiping his tears on his arm? Goodbye.

The idea of change really hit hard this episode, huh? Rei insisting that it had to be the three of them and that they could only do it together — Rei being passionate and Kazuki just taking it all on and laying down the law! I actually cracked up when Rei flipped over only having an hour of playtime each day (like, c'mon Kazuki — that's harsh). Also, I loved that Kazuki saw a little montage which included Karin saying, "MAKE MIRI HAPPY!" because that's so important and I'm glad that Kazuki has accepted that yeah, their family is anything but conventional but hoo, they can indeed make Miri happy.

Misaki dying in Kazuki's arms though... that was painful. And what a powerful performance from Kazuki's voice actor. I thought the background song sounded a bit out of place, if I'm completely honest. (But then again, I wasn't really listening properly, so...)

The pacing was a bit. Hmm. A lot was crammed into this episode. Not necessarily in a bad way, but I wasn't sure if the impact of Rei's speech really hit me the way that it was supposed to. I was relieved that Kazuki didn't um and ah over what to do, but it was a bit — "BAM! Misaki is dead and now Miri is orphaned and I can't do anything without your help and I know change needs to happen but I'm somehow having all of these epiphanies without addressing the giraffe in the room which is that we have to take down my evil dad's evil organisation."

SO BOTH THE DADDIES AND THE BUDDIES ARE BACK! And only one (1) woman had to die to achieve it. 🙃 If this series didn't have Miss Anna, it really would be a bit of a wreck where women characters are concerned, lol. Yes, we also have Karin, Carol and Dorothy — but they're kinda more plot devices than well-realised individuals, so, you know.

So... I think that the family will now get by on the leftover money from the pay packets that were supposed to come from Karin, now that they're out of the hitman business. Where will they live? How the heck is Kazuki proposing to continue taking Miri to daycare? And what is Kyuu-chan going to do? He'll be a target too, right?

LOOKING FORWARD TO EP. 12!

[coffeestainedcamera]

Ah yes, shit finally got serious. Like, that's a lot of grief to be carrying for five years. All while trying to look like you've got everything together.

And yeah, the mundanity of work and trying to keep a household functioning does seem like a decent distraction. Like, from my own experiences with depression, grief, and workaholism. But it always sneaks up on you when something overly familiar shows up. Although the constructive way forward that's difficult to achieve is living on, and actually trying to do something with your time. So, yeah, this week in getting unexpected reminders of your therapy sessions.

Although I do wonder how that scene would have played out if she knew that the advisee is a hitman.

In light hearted moments, more scenes of Rei and Miri acting very similarly! Even if it's all tinged with the knowledge that Rei is prob acting like this bc he never really had a childhood. But yeah, I do wonder if this aversion to tomatoes, mushrooms, and anything really "substantial" is smth she picked up from one of her dads.

Although ultimately, that scene also sets up the theme of change imo. Because sure, we had the very explicit acknowledgement of Kazuki's decision to finally live on with the changes. But we also had Rei continue with his own arc, given the fact that he's finally starting to learn to cook, after a long era of hopelessness at basic housekeeping. Plus, he actually fell asleep somewhere that isn't the bathtub, the safe area from his POV.

[crypt1dcorv1dae]

I'm gonna be 100% honest with ya, rei is wonderful and I recognize that he's a very pretty and very attractive guy, but........ Idk man kazuki is just WAY more my type. I like a man who looks like he eats 3 square meals a day and can hold a conversation. Rei looks malnourished and sleep deprived. Because he is. No hate, i love the guy, but he's not my type !!!

Plus I know kazuki wouldn't mind my depressive slumps and would make sure I still take care of myself, and help me if I can't, like I'm not looking for someone to basically just be my fucking mom, but the fact he's not just willing but HAPPY to take care of someone when they can't take care of themselves is... Really really nice to know, ykno?

Plus a guy who's really fucking good with kids is........... Very attractive. I don't even WANT kids but it's still like DAMN.... Okay.... 🫦

Also also I know he can lift me, he may not be much of a fighter but he could lift me. And that's hot. + He's canonically good at... stuff. He would treat me right and then treat me to a home cooked meal like. Absolute husband material. Yes he does murder IDC I don't ask about his professional life.