#anpan thoughts

[anpanbun]

Most of my order from @xmaruu11 and @kitsuneisi 's DDVAU merch shop has come in! I'm so excited to finally have most of it (just waiting on the posters!)

Vograce did an amazing job on the quality, and Doody and Maruu made such cute designs. The connection charms are some of my favorite merch designs I've ever seen, because they're incredibly creative. I love how they're made to look like the bottom person is actually being carried by the top person and how everyone has wildly different reactions to the situation!

Mother Spore is absolutely adorable in her charm!

I knew I would love the stickers ever since Maruu showed off the designs. They're so glossy and feel super high quality!! I'm so excited to put them in my sticker book.

Now onto the book, I will not lie I teared up when I picked up the book. It's small, but its heavy with the weight of how much effort and love I know has been put into it. The front and back covers are gorgeous. The comic printed so well, especially the colors!!!

I feel incredibly honored to hold this book in my hands. Thank you Maruu and Doody, you have created a beautiful comic and story, and I cannot wait to learn more about that world and support you two while you continue to create.

[togament]

suo. sakura. umemiya. togame. pt. 1

"...and the biggest fattest one too. How'd it take him so long to figure it out? What did it take for him to finally realize?"

𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒: FLUFF FLUFF FLUFF, general cute stuff really. There isn't much to warn about :o!!! gn!reader, Togame is tall and awkward and cute and and--, Ume's precious as always!

𝐒𝐔𝐎.

✦ when he’s doting on you way more, putting your wants over everything else.

He's attending to your every need even before you realize you even need it in the first place. Need tissues? He's already pulling them out of his bag. Got a migraine? He's already handing you a water bottle and an ibuprofen. He does it so naturally too like it's second nature to him.

✦ when he uncharacteristically gets heated when someone tries to harm you.

Listen. He's usually so, SO calm even in the most intense situations, always ready to analyze before acting--a real brain over heart typa guy. But when he finds you being cornered at an alleyway? He's sprinting towards you to beat whoever's planning on hurting you without even thinking twice. Someone's bothering you in town? He's shadowing you, protecting and keeping watch.

✦ he catches himself being flustered, blushing and folding at the sight of you.

Suo rarely shows any intense emotions. If anything, it's always just a slight smile and a little teasing remark here and there. But around you though? He's smiling widely, cheeks blushing. It's hard to hide sometimes. Goodness. He needs to keep himself in check, he often thinks. He doesn't want you to find out yet. Not yet.

────────────────────────────────────────────

𝐔𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐈𝐘𝐀.

✦ when he looks for you FIRST whenever he achieves something, whenever he's having a bad day--for literally EVERYTHING.

his immediate thought is you. Every time. When he sees the hybrid tomato plant you both grew from seed blooming, he's immediately sending you photos. When he's having one of those nights, tossing and turning in his sleep, thoughts keeping him awake, the only thing that's tethering him down to earth is you.

✦ when he sees you get along with the family that he built for himself.

Ume is never subtle when it comes to this. My god. He's blushing, tripping over his words, movements ever so stiff--it's very unusual to see Ume in this state. He's just so happy to see you interacting with everybody, loving each member as much as he does. He can't just swoop you off your feet and kiss you right? Not right now. Not when he's been silently pining for you for years.

✦ when he realizes his thoughts about his future always has you in it.

He often talks about his future with others, what his plans are after he graduates, where he wants to go, what restaurants to go to. Everyone notices how his thoughts always seem to gravitate towards you, always easing you into his plans with a pensive little, "Hm. Y'think they'd like to go here too? I heard them talking about the spot a couple times!", "Maaaan I wanna go here with them soon. Should I just book the tickets? Surprise them? Yeah I think I should!" Everyone's just waiting for a confession at this point, really.

────────────────────────────────────────────

𝐒𝐀𝐊𝐔𝐑𝐀.

✦ when random things remind him of you.

he could be on their daily patrols, passing by some shops and his mind would drift off to you and how you would look in the shirt he passed by, how your face would probably light up at the taste of the anpan they're selling down the street. Goodness you never leave his mind. Day dreams about it sometimes. Suo and Nirei has caught him multiple times doing so. Always ends with an extremely flustered Sakura.

✦ when he thinks he hears your laughter or your voice, his head snaps towards the direction of the sound.

just like the above! But it's your voice. Nirei thinks Sakura's just on guard by how often he looks around quickly but Suo points out Sakura's reddening cheeks and they immediately know he's thinking about you again. Wants to fish his phone out of his pocket with trembling (and blushing) fingers to ask you where you are. Y'know... Just in case you run into trouble.

✦ when he gave you the other half of his food (he hasn't taken a single bite yet)

Sakura sometimes eats for at least 5 people so to have him offer half of his food to you when you're out eating is saying something. His hands are blushing and trembling as he's trying his best to steady them, slicing a portion of his food to place it on your plate. Of course, you give him the other half of your food too. Of course he's a blushing mess.

────────────────────────────────────────────

𝐓𝐎𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄.

✦ finds every excuse possible to be close to you. (Subtly.)

Ever noticed how Togame always seems to bump into you at spots you and your friends frequent? How he so happened to pass by the Furin school after your classes are dismissed? Gosh you're his first real crush so he doesn't know what to do with all these feelings. He wants to see you and see you often. He awkwardly and adorably tries his damndest not to seem too obvious when he's trying to see you more to strike up a conversation but his blushing (and tall frame) doesn't help his case.

✦ when he always talks about you to the old men at the public baths he frequents.

Togame's a quiet guy. He rarely ever yaps, always getting cut off mid-sentence since he talks so.. SO slow. But when it's about you, his normal 0.75x speaking speed goes up to a full 1.0x or even, dare I say, 1.25x. He's smiling ear to ear, voice with an uncharacteristic shine to it while he's playing shogi with one of the old men. They already adore you before they even meet you. They often give Togame advice too--bring you your favorite flowers, they suggest. Take you out for a festival date, they suggest. "Soon," Togame responds, scratching the back of his neck, "M'nervous though. I can pull it off ri--" "Of course you can, kame-kun." he looks at the old men with the softest, most lovestruck eyes they've ever seen. Soon. He'll make his very first move.

✦ has caught himself staring at you from afar, smiling to himself like a damn lovesick puppy.

...on multiple ocassions, might I add. You could be yapping away with the Bofurin members, talking animatedly about the most mundane things, arms flinging to and fro to get your point across, snort laughing and head thrown back. Togame's just sat just outside the group, ever the introvert. Face propped on his hand, heart practically melting. He doesn't realize he's doing this before Choji points it out. Loudly. He's immediately looking in the other direction, blush creeping up his neck as he struggles to keep the smaller Shishitoren member in check. While he's preoccupied, it's your turn to stare back at him, hiding a blush behind your hand. Suo notices this and points it out. Now the both of you are flustered messes.

a/n: tried my hand at a new layout!! eeeee inspired by my favorite perfume house but we're not opening that can of worms right now, lest I yap. ANYWHOSIES thank you, dear reader, for getting this far. I am smooching your forehead tenderly with consent.

[inthelittlezine]

Say hello to the InTheLittleZine organizer, @anpanbun

Pronouns: she/her

Anpan has been insane over Martyn Inthelittlewood since circa 2012, and its really reared its head in the last year or so. You can count on her bad sleep schedule being even worse until this zine gets made!

Next up is @kingtheghast

Pronouns: she/he/they

Ghast is an artist and designer who loves doing character art. Sometimes, they draw minecraft youtubers. Maybe more than sometimes. Okay maybe all the time-

(Quick note, I couldn't have gotten this zine off the ground without Ghast's help <3 -Anpan)

Meet our second Art Mod, @maggymations (pfp credit @/sofi1z)

Pronouns: she/her

Maggy, mostly called Mags, is an artist and (sometimes) animator that has only been in the mcyt fandom since around 6 months ago. She’s always open to meeting new people and is super excited to get the zine up and running!

Introducing the first half of our writing mod team, @phosphorus-noodles

Pronouns: she/they

Hello everybody! Phosphorus Noodles also known as Pho has been following Martyn's work since 3rd Life and is very proud of themself for correctly predicting the winner's pov of Limited Life from day one.

Here's the other half of our writing mod team, @ilexdiapason

Pronouns: they/them

Ilex has had the lyrics to "Screw The Nether" memorised since it was released. They currently show no signs of kicking Martyn out from where he's been living in their head rent-free since then.

Say hi to @tinjap!

Pronouns: she/her

Tinja's favourite things in the world are drawing silly little pictures, doing silly little crafts, collecting silly little things and thinking silly little thoughts about Martyn.

Last but certainly not least, its @contravictoire

Pronouns: they/them

Vic loves Evo SMP maybe a bit too much for their own good, and you can catch them obsessing over Martyn's Eyes and Ears lore at all times! (You didn't hear it here at the ITLZ, but they are also a big PearlescentMoon and TangoTek fan!)

[1-marigold-1]

Today's the last day of 2024 and I just wanted to say few things

I made this blog a year ago (on 28.12.2023) mostly to look at the life series and hermitcraft fanart, and sometimes maybe share my own doodles and art pieces, I never really thought I'll get these many notes under my posts or that I'll meet so many cool people but here we are !!

people like Lew @liloinkoink, whose lamplight au pulled me out of my artblock and inspired me to create more art, he's also a really cool person to talk with and to listen to (their aus and storytimes being one of my many inspirations to draw and make animatics)

or Anpan @anpanbun, who always has cool ideas and is a really nice person who appreciates people around her, I love talking about Epic the musical or other things with her

and so many other people I met in the lamplight discord server or the treebarkzine server, genuinely so many of you have made my day better without probably even knowing about it, by commenting on my art, by talking with me, I really appreciate it.

I feel like I also improved as an artist a lot this year, I'm finally happy with my art and the creation process of it, it doesn't feel like something that has to be perfect anymore, if I don't feel like fully rendering it I should just leave it as a sketch, if it's not working I should just try again differently instead of trying to do a perfect 1:1 to the first idea that popped into my head. That need for perfection was one of many things that led me to my artblock at the start of the year, and I'm happy that I could free myself from it!

I just wanted to thank everyone, I wish you all a happy 2025!!!

[wito-chan-bla-bla]

Wrong number

Gojo likes to write Nanami and chat about (Y/N). The problem is… that all this time he was writing… to you.

"Hey, Nanami, you know what? My future wife gave me a very sweet smile today! I always thought that my Six Eyes didn't have even the slightest flaw, but in fact, there is still one! Why can't I use them to take photos? I would like to remember her smile forever!"

"Nanami-i-in, you have thirty seconds to say what (Y/N)-chan likes out of food! If you don't tell me, I'll come to your house and yell under your windows until you tell me!"

«NA. NA. MIN! Can you go to (Y/N)-chan and find out what her ring finger size is? I want to order a ring for our engagement in advance, but I do not know what size my princess' fingers are."

Again. Again. Again and again. Gojo sent these messages... to you.

It all started about six months ago. You were lying quietly in bed and enjoying a well-earned sleep, when suddenly you jumped up and almost hit the ceiling. Your phone rang abruptly and woke not only you, but definitely your neighbors as well!

You mentally cursed the fact that you forgot to turn down the volume or turn off the sound completely. The phone was in your hands, and you were instantly almost blinded by the bright light. Cursing everything that was happening, you canceled the call and lay back on the cool sheets…

Only to hear three loud sounds in a row in a second, notifying you of the incoming message!

You sat up and growled softly to yourself. Belatedly, it occurred to you that you might be urgently needed as a sorcerer. So that you, overcoming the burning light in your eyes, could finally see the message that came. And there…

"What do you think, what kind of filling do I need to take anpans with?"

You sat for a few seconds, remembering what "anpan" is. Your sleeping brain found somewhere in your head the information that this is dessert, threw it at you and continued to sleep. You looked at the message again…

"Gojo-san, how did you get my number?"

Who else could it be? It was two o'clock in the morning, and an unknown person suddenly writes to you and asks with what filling to take a sweet! This was one hundred percent Gojo.

You turned down the brightness of the screen and turned down the sound, lay back on the bed and decided to finish this conversation quickly so that Satoru would no longer distract you from sleep.

"Ha! Because I am the great Satoru Gojo! You thought you changed your phone number and got away from me? Ha! A genius like me will find someone like you without any problems!"

You frowned. You haven't changed your phone number. But you decided not to think about it, you wanted to sleep.

"I don't want to deal with all this. Take all the filling options for anpans, you're still rich. I'm going to sleep."

And then you turned off the sound on your phone, put it away from you, and went back to sleep.

The next day, you decided to find Satoru and ask him how he got your phone number. You had a weekend off, so you didn't dress in your usual dark uniform, but in something more elegant. As you walked through the school grounds, you listened to the sounds around you. Yes, it would be more logical to find the tall man with white hair using your eyes, but you knew that it is much easier to go to where the loudest and "violent" sounds come from.

Suddenly, your phone tells you that you have received a new message. You have opened the appropriate tab…

You froze, looking around. Yes, there could be no mistake. Gojo photographed you from the roof of one of the nearby buildings.

You wanted to write to him and ask him not to joke, to come here and talk to you, but you froze, looking at the new message from Satoru.

"Hey, Nanami-i-in, do you see this? (Y/N)-chan is so cute today! Oh, I know! If I'm the "strongest", then she's the "cutest"! I think my cheeks will ache for a few more weeks from this memory!"

You continued to stare at the screen in shock. «(Y/N)-chan»? He never called you that! He always referred to you as "(Y/N)", sometimes as "(Y/S)".

But that's not even the strangest part! Why does he suddenly say you're... cute?

You were so confused by this sudden information that you couldn't speak to Gojo when he appeared next to you. You just mumbled something in embarrassment and ran to the bathroom, trying to cool off by splashing cold water on your face.

While you were washing up, I received another message.

"He-he-he-he, I really am not only the strongest, but also the most beautiful. I have a new record, Nanamin! I was able to embarrass a girl in seven seconds! And given that it was (Y/N)-chan… This is my absolute victory!"

After that, you couldn't even talk to Gojo.

You were in a hurry to go home, but so successfully encountered Nanami! You asked him to talk to you alone. Kento nodded and calmly followed you into one of the empty classrooms. All this time you have felt the heavy gaze of the heavenly eyes.

When you were in class, your phone made that familiar sound again.

"Why did (Y/N)-chan call you to this small room, m? Are you trying to take my little girl away from me? Quickly get out of there so I can see you! I don't trust your sharp cheekbones!"

–Is something wrong, (Y/N)?

You looked at Nanami and suddenly realized why he was so tired. When you were in school with him, you were even more or less tolerant of Gojo's antics, finding them funny... but Nanami…

–Did you change your phone number, Kento-kun?

The sorcerer gasped softly and nodded quickly.

–Yes, I'm sorry I didn't warn you sooner. I was on a mission, so I couldn't warn you. You couldn't reach me?

–Um... that's not really the point... I have a... problem here.

You showed him your phone screen. Kento quickly ran his eyes over the messages and then groaned loudly.

–I knew he wouldn't stop there…

–W-what are you talking about?

–I actually changed my phone number so that Gojo wouldn't write or call me anymore, – Kento said with a serious face. – And even though I knew he would try to find me, I didn't think he would try to do it so quickly.

–Um... what he writes to me… is this a hoax or something, y-yes?

 Nanami looked at you. You've looked at Nanami.

–I could try to smooth things over, but our senpai deserves to be punished for distracting me from my legitimate vacation so often and forcing me to answer his stupid questions. Gojo has been in love with you since our first year of school. He keeps writing me stuff like that about you. This is one of the reasons why I decided to change my phone number and not tell him a new one.

You stood there in shock. You... you couldn't believe that Gojo has been in love with you for so long! You can't believe it, because even now, when you received such information and re-analyzed all his actions, you couldn't believe that he was in love with you!

 Yes, he brought you food. But at the same time, he was carrying packages for his students! Yes, he invited you to dinner. But with him and you always went your colleagues, friends or his students! Yes, he brought you souvenirs. But to whom did he not bring souvenirs after his travels?!

You've thought about it over and over and over again. And with every encounter with Gojo replayed in your head, you didn't understand how Satoru could be in love with you.

Meanwhile, Nanami noticed your reaction and tapped you on the shoulder.

–I understand you, (Y/N). I would also be traumatized if I found out that someone like Gojo had fallen in love with me.

–T-that's not the point! G-Gojo-san hasn't shown any signs of attention to me all this time! He... h-he just existed next to me and sometimes acted like Gojo-san usually does!

–However, this does not make my correspondence with him any less adequate, – Kento sighed and patted you on the head, trying to calm you down. – Gojo may not have shown it, but he's incredibly in love with you. I even think he's mentally unstable... and it's not just his romantic feelings for you. (Y/N), – he looked you in the eye, – you can do whatever you want with this information. You can even make him feel a huge amount of shame and opprobrium, which is usually felt by people around him. I personally don't care.

You just nodded in embarrassment.

When you were exchanging phone numbers with him, you suddenly asked:

–Kento-kun, why didn't you just block Gojo-san if he annoyed you so much?

–Because, – Nanami clenched his jaw tightly, – he broke into my apartment, stole my phone, guessed the password, and unlocked himself! I logically decided that it was better to continue reading his whining than to clean the apartment again after a person who does not take off his shoes indoors!

–What makes you think... that he can't just break into your apartment and get your phone number?..

 Nanami grinned broadly at you.

–Because I moved out.

You left the room with Kento, happy for him and his new apartment. Suddenly, you got a text message again.

"Why is she so happy around you?! What did you tell her?!. I'm serious. What did you tell her to make her so happy?.. Oh, I know! If you tell me, I'll buy you bread!.."

You put your phone in your pocket without a word.

You wanted, you really wanted to write Gojo that you are not "Nanamin", that you are not "(Y/N)-chan", that you are not his "princess", "sunny", "rabbit", "goddess", "the most beautiful woman on Earth" and so on. But…

Sometimes it was so nice to feel like the most loved person in the whole world.

You didn't have a romantic relationship. You weren't sure what it was about, but the fact remained. No one gave you loud compliments, no one praised you and your body in a way that didn't make you feel uncomfortable and nauseous, no one gave you gifts or told you that they would put the world at your feet.

And Satoru Gojo... he said all that.

Every time you felt sad, you opened a conversation with him and read his endless "simp's messages". When you didn't have enough of that, you wrote and asked Gojo what exactly he "likes about (Y/N)". And each time Satoru wrote "oh, you finally asked, Nanamin, I thought you didn't want to be in this topic" and the next message flooded you with a portion of compliments.

When you thought about someone great like Satoru Gojo having such feelings for you... you couldn't help but feel better, and you had hope for the best.

But there was still a problem. Gojo... he never once did what Nanami asked him to do. It was like... bullying.

"Nanami-i-in, what kind of cologne do you wear? (Y/N)-chan said you smell good. Maybe if it suits me, (Y/N)-chan will also stick her nose into my chest?"

You answered it by asking Kento first. But Satoru didn't change in any way after that. He smelled the same as before. (Yes, you specifically checked this out).

"What was the name of that restaurant that you and Shoko were discussing? I hear it has a great kitchen. I want to book a table to ask out (Y/N)-chan!"

No one asked you out on a date. Gojo didn't even hint at it.

"What kind of food (Y/N)-chan likes to take with her? She's going on a mission with me, so I want to cook lunch for her!"

No one shared the food with you that day. Moreover, Satoru left when you asked him to eat together, saying that he had urgent business to attend to.

"What gems do you think will suit her? She got a beautiful manicure, and I want to give her a ring and a bracelet that will match the color of her nails!"

You didn't get any expensive (or cheap) jewelry either before the nail polish was still in place or after it was worn off.

Gojo seemed to know… that it's you. (You thought so). You started to doubt that you were able to parody Nanami's perfect grammar, but then you remembered that Kento himself said that he constantly received messages from Satoru of a similar nature. And your friend will not lie to you, especially in something so serious.

In the end, half a year passed. You woke up and fell asleep with questions... and messages from Gojo. You didn't know what to do at all, especially now that you've come this far.

But there was exactly one huge plus in all of this. Nanami always wrote without errors and abbreviations, he even placed commas in the right places! So you were filled with the wisdom of your language and even learned a few dozen new words, because sometimes Kento dictated to you exactly how to answer Gojo.

The fourteenth of February came unexpectedly... or almost. And you planned to end your suffering soon. Because if you once again receive incredible praise in the text and see the usual behavior in life… you'll go crazy.

"Gojo-san, are you awake?"

"What do I see?! Did Nanamin finally text me first?! I don't believe it! I'll go and ask that ugly curse to pinch me! Wait a second!.."

"I can't wait. It's about (Y/N), if it makes you think faster."

You stared at the screen for a few seconds, and then…

–Hello?

 –(Y/N), why Gojo is breaking into the classroom where I wanted to take a nap and yelling that he's going to kill me?

–Um... I texted him on your behalf that I wanted to talk to him... C-can you ask me what kind of chocolate he'd like for February fourteenth? Better yet, l-let him write!..

 Kento ended the call abruptly. You decided to write to Gojo as soon as possible that "(Y/N) is interested in what kind of gift for the fourteenth of February you would like". Suddenly, Nanami called you again and thanked you for saving him, because he had already started climbing out of the window so that Satoru wouldn't kill him.

 Gojo has started typing you a message… He wrote it for a minute, two, five… You decided to leave your phone alone and go for a cup of tea.

When you returned from watching an episode of your favorite TV show, you looked at your phone…

 Did he w-write me a whole book?!

 You scrolled and scrolled and scrolled down the screen... until you finally reached the end.

"So much information is normal? I can think some more if (Y/N)-chan can't choose from what I've suggested!"

You decided to quickly convince him that everything is in order and so.

You started viewing his message… You have a feeling that you didn't read so much in high school.

In the end, you came to a simple conclusion that you didn't have to spend at least ten minutes reading this entire text: Gojo will be happy with everything you give him, but he will be most happy with homemade chocolate.

You planned to hand him a chocolate bar with a note like "it was me all along, (Y/N), not Kento-kun." But it turned out that you don't know how to make sweets. In the end, you decided to ask Nanami for help, taking up his entire evening.

Everything was fine. The wizard really knew how to cook, you quickly finished all the "dirty part", now the chocolate was cooling in the refrigerator and waiting in the wings. Slicing vegetables for Nanami to make a stew doesn't feel quite right. You were proud of the work you did. And yet you were afraid of what was coming.

–If you're tired, I can make dinner myself. You saved me from Gojo's nagging, so this is the least I can do for you.

–No, no, it's okay, Kento-kun… I was just thinking about it… Why is it that Gojo-san practically confesses her love to me in every message, but when we get close?… Why is he acting like he doesn't feel anything at all?

–This may sound corny... but he probably doesn't want you to get hurt, – Nanami reached out and patted your head, bringing back memories of the day you were in the classroom with him. – He is the strongest sorcerer, and he has many enemies. If he has a "favorite", then they will be in danger. This is especially true for the person he loves.

–But why then does he not try to suppress these feelings, but only remind himself of them by 'communicating with you'?

–Because Gojo is an annoying jerk who doesn't know how to control himself, – Kento started cutting carrots. – If you love him, I hope you both start dating as soon as possible. Then all his energy will go to you, and we, all the rest of his environment, will breathe calmly.

–Hey! Are you just making me a victim, Kento-kun?!

–Yes, you're right... – he chuckled softly. – Even you can't completely neutralize someone like Gojo.

You silently poked him in the shoulder.

Shortly before the fourteenth of February, you took out chocolate in the form of hearts, which was cooling all this time, and with the help of white chocolate you wrote an inscription on the sweets (each candy had one letter). "It wasn't Kento-kun's cell number".

And now everything was ready. You bought chocolate for your male friends and prepared to give joy to your colleagues.

You ran from building to building, finding your friends and giving them gifts. (You were planning to get a lot of gifts for White Day, so you had to take care of every man in your environment, hee-hee!) You decided to approach Gojo at the end.

The tall, solitary figure was easy to find. You clutched the colorful box in your hands and prepared for this important step in your life.

–Gojo-san... I have a gift for you.

 Satoru instantly turned around and pulled the black blindfold from his eyes. He smiled slyly at you and began to draw out the vowels, saying something teasing. But you didn't listen to him. You wanted to understand... how you're feeling right now.

If you were disgusted with Gojo or something like that, you wouldn't be reading so much of what he wrote for Nanamin. And yet... you didn't act like an embarrassed teenager either... or basically a person in love.

But then why did you do it? Why did you even make homemade chocolate for Satoru Gojo in honor of the fourteenth of February?..

You froze, looking at the sorcerer who said something like "are you frozen, struck by my beauty?". You thought about what he said... and then you nodded.

 Gojo has been close to you for several years now. People might call him annoying... but you found his behavior funny.

 You liked his jokes and antics. Yes, sometimes his pranks got out of hand, you felt more shame than laughter, but... in the end, you couldn't be mad at Gojo.

 Satoru was the one who always protected you on missions because you were "too weak". He was the one who threw a cold water bottle at you on hot days. He was the one who talked about himself and his "incredible coolness " over and over again when you were feeling bad, until you switched to anger at him, forgetting about your problems.

After all... Satoru wasn't as "bad" as some people thought he was. Or maybe you're already used to the fact that he's such an active, funny, and funny fool.

You didn't know why he fell in love with you. Maybe you just handed him a dessert when he was weak, and he remembered you as his hero. It doesn't matter…

Because you tripped over a rock!

You flew down in a rush, but suddenly big hands grabbed you by the waist. Gojo lifted you off the ground vertically and laughed, there were tears in his heavenly eyes.

–Y-you tripped in the air?! I want to make a GIF out of this! It was just perfect!

–Y-yeah, yeah, I know… Can you put me on the ground? I can't give you chocolate in this state.

 Satoru nodded enthusiastically and placed you on the ground. It vibrated impatiently on the spot, reaching out to you and waiting for you to give it a sweet. You looked at his face carefully. His skin was as pale as usual.

You gave him the box. Gojo started chatting about how he was so incredible that they even made him homemade chocolate. Satoru put the lid aside... and you were horrified to see that all the candies had flown up and got tangled up, so the phrase was impossible to read.

While Gojo chewed happily and theatrically, enjoying your cooking and praising you, you clenched your hands into fists. You didn't know what to do. You couldn't just give up and walk away. You…

–Gojo-san, did you like the candy?

–Yes! – he looked at you with great joy. – You made them especially for me? Oh-oh-oh, (Y/N), you're such a good and hardworking girl!..

It started pulling at your cheek. You listened to his phrase. He didn't sound serious, he was teasing you.

And you couldn't stand this ambiguity any longer.

–Gojo-san, by the way... can you call my phone? I lost it somewhere in my bag, I can't find it…

–I can use my Si…

He suddenly shut up and suddenly started nodding vigorously. He took out his phone and asked you to give him your phone number. You were talking digit by digit, shrinking from the inside out and afraid that it would end right now... no, you were afraid that you didn't know how it would end.

 And now the end has come. The last digit. Gojo tapped the screen with his finger…

–I think you gave me your phone number wrong. I called Nanamin for some reason…

You took your phone out of your bag with a trembling hand and looked at the screen. All of a sudden it became bright, two options appeared. "Accept incoming call" and "Cancel incoming call". You hit the green button under the shocked gaze of the sorcerer and bring the phone to your ear.

–Hello?

 Gojo stood blinking in surprise for a few seconds, then canceled the call.

–S-so... everything I wrote... wasn't seen by Nanamin, but b-by you?

–Y-yes, – you gulped and nodded. – And I wanted to talk about it…

Before you finished your sentence, Satoru threw his phone at you and ran off in an unknown direction so fast that you didn't quite understand where he ran to in the first place. The only thing you realized... was that his face, ears, and neck were completely red.

 You are left alone with your thoughts, feelings... and his phone.

After that failed declaration of love (or whatever it was?), you were on missions for several days and couldn't talk to Gojo. Just in case, you carried his phone with you, so that if something happened, you could give it back. So when you finally got back to your apartment, showered, and ate... there was a knock on your door.

 Satoru was on the doorstep. It looked calm when you looked through the peephole in the door, but now that you opened it, it was getting redder and redder before your eyes.

–Um... I came to get my phone, and... my mistakes and my shame.

–Do you want to... talk about it?

–I t-think... you already know.

You looked at Gojo and were surprised. You've never seen him look so confused. Usually Satoru made all the people lose their patience and calmness… but now, he was the one who had lost his playfulness and fun.

You silently stepped aside, hinting at the sorcerer to come in. But he didn't budge from his spot in the communal hallway.

–Um... please come inside, I don't want any of the neighbors to see the mess in my apartment. I think... we need to talk.

–Ar-re you sure... you want to do this after everything I've written... to you?

–Yes. Because... your words really supported me when I was having a hard time, – you smiled faintly and hid your embarrassment by burying your nose in your shoulder. – So... please... let's talk.

 Gojo Satoru, a great sorcerer, the strongest user of cursed energy in this generation, a tall and incredibly handsome man... came into your apartment blushing and hunching like a teenager. You smiled faintly and closed the door behind him so that he wouldn't run away.

Because you couldn't escape his messages. And now he... won't be able to run away from you either. Perhaps... it's time for him to know what you think of him, too, even if you tell him all this while looking him straight in the eye... and not through messages on your phone.

[In my head, it looked better... eh…]

[imustbenuts]

about kanjis and the jp language in the world building of THLLDA, spoilers for route 0 minimum and maybe a bit after. random thought blerhggehies

so uh. hm how do i begin. kanjis and names i guess?

kanjis are the basic building block of jp language, and each character holds its own meaning. in terms of literacy shift, the jp language throughout history in terms of grammar hasnt had major shifts for over 1000 years. its possible to read a text from 8th century nara, though it would be challenging bc some kanjis refer to different things or have fallen out of use since.

on a very fundamental level, the meanings of kanjis have not particularly shifted too much, though JP does have the quirk of creating their own kanjis which does not exist in chinese, which is originally borrowed from.

so with that, the kanjis that goes into the names of these characters in THL also has the same meaning as today's JP.

so, specifically for Sumino 済野　and Aotsuki　蒼月, their family names mean Empty Field and Blue (pale?) Moon. so far so good, very in line with existing naming conventions. cool.

one thing to note is that JP names tend to be rooted in place and nature. for example, family names like 鈴木 (suzuki, ringing tree) 木村 (kimura, tree village) is very common. sometimes its a vague island, a place, a river, but in general its a vague place.

(exceptions for certain surnames that's more bestowed by the emperor but still following some kind of place locale nature logic)

for first names, it can be often nature or some kind of force. force of nature, force of human emotions, nature, an appeal, etc etc.

Takumi 拓海 (something like Crashing Waves but kanjis mean Clearing and Ocean), Eito 衛人(Defender) and Darumi 怠美 (Languid Beauty) is still in line with that logic.

what this implies is that the meaning of kanjis have largely not shifted in however long the TRC has been in isolation mode. now, we know that language and culture shifts over time even in isolation no matter how hard it tries to be controlled otherwise, so now there's implications going on here.

the biggest issue i see is that in spite of these characters given names still following the Nature and Place logic, there are effectively.... no real Nature or Place in the TRC. words like Sun, Moon and Ocean would undoubtedly lose its meaning and strength over time, so something is going on here. this means whoever is effectively controlling the TRC has made it a point to preserve culture as hard as it possibly can. in a nationalistic vibe even.

we see hints of this in the library itself, where there are a lot of redacted stuff that Takumi can't read. theres culture that are wholesale missing and yet things deemed important enough like certain Foreign (US/EU) films are archived alongside confirmed JP works like the VNs Darumi quotes. (Saya no uta and Sayonara wo oshiete). Naruto and dragonball and the other 100 shounen mangas Kyoshika is into.

this means, kanji is a part of this whole linguistic culture and is still being preserved so hard that they cant fully wipe out the origins to what these words are referencing.

this goes even deeper if we follow the nationalistic angle bc yeah old JP poetry and literature is still revered and preserved hardcore. on a practical level, these culture products serve to entertain and placate the populace as whoever is in charge goes about trying to do... things.

this also means that the culture of TRC has really not shifted much. stuff like takoyaki is still takoyaki and anpan is still anpan. if we deem these as culturally significant, the TRC will likely make it a point to not have that base change.

there happens to also be similar attempts made to prevent the linguistic naming sense of today's japanese from changing too much too. there is a thing called Kira Kira Names (sparkly names) thats a point of contention over in japan.

to put it simply, parents have been giving their kids names written in kanji (as per legal requirements), but giving it pronunciations only the parents would understand. this is the JP equivalent of Tragedeigh names.

these are names like Pikachu (光宙 / ぴかちゅう), and Prince (王子様 oujisama). names like these reportedly give massive confusion in the legal side of matters like hospitals and administrations, bc they are so atypical of how a kanji should be pronounced, or how a person is usually named. (like these are noun names level.)

so if we follow this logic and assume that similar things are happening in the TRC, its very much possible that theres a lot of manipulation and media control to make sure things stay unchanged for as long as they need/want

[thesagesjournal]

[Log-in story] JR-PLUS x Mahoutsukai no Yakusoku “Made With Love”

Appearing characters: Nero, Cain, Mithra, Riquet, Rustica, Snow, Figaro, Lennox

Nero: Clang, clang, clang, clang…

Cain: Si—zzle… Crackle, pop!

Mithra: Chomp, chomp, chomp…

Riquet: Wow, it smells so good in here.

Rustica: All of these tantalising sounds are making my mouth water.

Snow: Thank you for preparing our lunches, Cain and Nero~!

Figaro: Everything else we need for the picnic is good to go.

Lennox: Once the food is ready, we can head off.

Snow: Oh, Mithy-poo~, pray tell, what are you doing over there?

Mithra: I’m the taste-tester. When I told Nero I was hungry, he handed me this hunk of meat.

Mithra: Apparently, it’s my job to gnaw on it and wait quietly.

Snow: Ah…

Mithra: Am I doing a good job, Nero?

Nero: Y-Yep! Not even Owen an’ Bradley could do this as well as you!

Nero: Just keep gnawin’ away! Yer doin’ great!

Mithra: Heh. Did you hear that, Snow? Figaro?

Figaro: (Well played, Nero.)

Snow: (Well done, Nero.)

Riquet: I can’t wait for our picnic!

Riquet: The lunches are sure to be fantastic.

Rustica: Could that be schnitzel you’re making, Cain?

Cain: You got it! I’m using one of Nero’s secret recipes.

Cain: First, you flatten and stretch out the meat, then evenly coat it with a thin layer of breadcrumbs…

Cain: And plop it into the frying pan!

Rustica: What a beautiful golden colour. It looks positively delicious.

Snow: The meat also has a nice, juicy thickness to it!

Cain: It does!? I thought I flattened it enough!

Lennox: The coating is light enough to still give it that satisfying crunch. Even if the meat’s a little too thick, I’m sure the Master Sage will enjoy it regardless.

Lennox: I believe there’s a similar dish to what you’re making in their hometown as well.

Nero: “Tonkatsu,” yeah? I hear the meat’s s’posed to be thicker in that dish anyways.

Nero: Don’ worry about it, everythin’s turnin’ out just fine for now. I’m leavin’ it to you, Sir Knight.

Nero: …Aight, looks like this one’s ready to go.

Riquet: What are you making, Nero?

Nero: It’s a potato, olive, parsley, and bacon omelette.

Nero: …Is what I wanna say, but a certain someone whose name starts with an “M” and ends with an “a” gobbled up half the ingredients.

Nero: Unfortunately, I had to make-do and cobble together an omelette-ish bacon and potato salad with what was left.

Riquet: Wow, you arranged it so beautifully! The eggs look so creamy and delicious.

Figaro: Hmm, and what else?

Figaro: Oh, there’s sky salmon too. It’s browned to perfection.

Lennox: That’s nice. You like salmon, don’t you?

Lennox: This picnic basket’s getting pretty full. Are we almost done, Nero?

Nero: Just about yeah…

Mithra: Hold on. We’re not finished yet.

Nero: Huh?

Mithra: This is hardly anything. I could devour this whole basket and still have room for more. Please keep cooking until I’m completely and totally satisfied.

Figaro: Looks like someone’s still growing up, huh.

Cain: Welp, guess we’ve got no choice but to keep on cooking!

Cain: Since all of you are already here, do you mind giving us a hand?

Riquet, Snow, Rustica: Of course!

Lennox: If there’s anything you need, chef, just let us know.

Nero: Erm, what’s somethin’ quick and easy to make… Sandwiches, maybe?

Nero: There’s also that “onigiri” thing the Sage talked about before too.

Riquet: I can make the sandwiches!

Riquet: We can use omelettes for the filling to make a quick and easy snack to eat outside.

Snow: Leave the dessert sandwiches to me, then!

Snow: I was quite fond of the “anpan” the Master Sage gave me before, so I’ll make us a couple of those.

Lennox: I suppose I can take the onigiri. The Master Sage would probably appreciate having something familiar at the picnic.

Figaro: Yep, I was definitely gonna say that.

Figaro: But since you beat me to it, I guess I have no choice but to go one step further.

Figaro: My onigiri won’t be that ordinary stuff. I’m making a paella flavoured one. What do you think? It’d be hip with the kids, right?

Lennox: …

Lennox: Maybe I’ll try adding some of the cheese I brought back from the South, too.

Rustica: In that case, shall I take on the dessert? How do we feel about a fluffy, milk tea chiffon cake?

Snow: Do you even know how to make such a thing?

Rustica: Who can say? I’ve certainly never tried making one before.

Rustica: I was simply going to buy it from one of the best patisseries in the West.

Rustica: Mithra, could you do a quick “Arthim” for me, please?

Nero: Huh?

Mithra: I’m afraid I can’t. I have taste-testing to do.

Nero: Err, it’s all good, actually! From now on, yer relieved from taste-testin’ duty and officially on special dessert duty.

Nero: Just leave the meat ‘ere, and help out Mister Bridegroom, will ya?

Mithra: …Special dessert duty…

Mithra: I like the sound of that.

Mithra: <<Arthim>>

Nero: Yes! We can finally start on the roast beef!

Snow: So that meat Mithra was chewing on was supposed to be for the roast beef all along…

Cain: Alright, now that everyone has their tasks, let’s get cooking!

Wizards: Yeah!

[ogcassiopeia]

Tohoshinki Appears on the Cover of MAQUIA May Special Edition!

As They Celebrate 20 Years in Japan, They Share Their Thoughts on the Future and Their Gratitude

Tohoshinki makes their first-ever appearance on the cover of the special edition of MAQUIA May issue, set to be released on Saturday, March 22. This feature goes beyond their globally recognized stunning visuals, offering an in-depth interview filled with their passionate sincerity and deep love and appreciation for their fans.

MAQUIA May Special Edition Featuring Tohoshinki on the Cover

As Tohoshinki continues to captivate the world and marks their 20th anniversary in Japan, Yunho and Changmin make their debut on the cover of MAQUIA. This six-page special feature includes a segment titled "10 Questions", where they reveal personal aspects of themselves, along with interviews filled with their love for Japan and their fans.

Q. What do you think is your most charming feature?

"My mischievous side (laughs). (...) Maybe just the right amount of mischief makes it appealing? (laughs)" – Changmin

"My unexpected sides. (...) I used to feel embarrassed when people called me 'cute,' but now I accept it and show that side of myself too." – Yunho

(Excerpt from MAQUIA May Issue Interview)

When they step in front of the camera, they exude an overwhelming aura as if they were on a live stage. Yet, during breaks, they warmly enjoy cream-filled anpan (sweet bread) gifted by the staff, revealing a relaxed and endearing side. This feature captures their sublime beauty, natural expressions, and their sincere, love-filled personalities, making it a must-read for fans.

"I’m grateful to share time and memories with our fans." – Yunho

"As foreigners, we are truly thankful to have reached our 20th anniversary in Japan." – Changmin

(Excerpt from MAQUIA May Issue Interview)

Be sure to check out this issue and witness TVXQ as they continue to shine even brighter into the future!

[admrlthundrbolt]

Sweet Tooth (Iruka x Chubby Reader)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Iruka has a morning routine that includes your bakery. What will happen when a certain knuckleheaded ninja tags along?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey guys, I'm back at it again. I was recently rewatching Naruto and it resurfaced feelings for favorite characters. I thought that sweet Iruka would fit this idea perfectly.

I have an idea for a longer story for the 20th fanfiction. It's a concept I've been thinking about for a while, but will take a bit of research.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy.

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

With a heavy sigh of exertion, you dropped your hands from the whisk and bowl. While being a early bird, transitioning into the baker life was fairly easy. Mixing made up more of your prep than you’d like to think about though. But the happy looks on your customer's faces made up for it.

Especially a certain scarred sensei's.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Naruto, you seriously need to get your act together. A ninja must live a life of honor and sacrifice, not of childish pranks.” Iruka shook his head as he reprimanded the troublemaker. Hands on his hip, he leaned down to his eye level. “You need to take training and school seriously. It may seem like a game right now, but your future depends on your present actions.”

The blonde shuffled his feet and pouted at the ground. “It was just a prank.”

Shaking his head, he sighed. “No matter how innocent a prank may start. It can turn into a dangerous situation.” Putting a hand on the boy shoulder he said. “Do you understand.”

With a sullen nod he finally met his sensei's gaze. “Yeah.”

Patting the boy’s back, he let his stern expression drop. “Good.” Looking at his watch he cringed at the time. Glancing between the time and his pupil, he realized there was a decision to be made. If he escorted Naruto to class, he wouldn't have time to go by your bakery. Which would put a major damper on his day. On the other hand, he could take the troublemaker to the bakery. But what kind of mischief the blonde could get into, especially in your shop.

“OK Naruto, I’m going to make you a deal. “ He pinched the bridge of his nose at even the thought of what he was considering. “If I treat you to breakfast, do you think you can behave until we get to the academy?”

The boy nodded enthusiastically.

With a prayer the duo headed to your bakery.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The bell rang and you turned to the door. Smiling widely at the sight before you. “If it isn't my favorite customer.” A beeping came from the back and you clapped at the sound. “You guys couldn't have come at a better time. The Anpan is ready to come out of the oven. Excuse me while I go get it.”

Iruka could feel the heat building on his face. A love sick smile graced his mouth as he stared at the door you went through. He couldn't get over your kind nature and luscious full body. It was like you were crafted by angels themselves.

He was broke out of his fantasy by Naruto failing to hold back his laughter. “Wow sensei, they should change the name of the bakery to blush blush bakery.”

His blush spread even farther at the comment. But he didn't have a chance to reprimand his student.

You return with a tray full of red bean bun that smelled heavenly. As you faced them your eyes widened a bit. “Now Naruto, what have you said to make your sensei so flustered?”

Now the blush had crepted all the way up his ears. He quickly out his hands over the boy’s mouth. This kind of thing was exactly what he was afraid of. “Oh, trying to talk his way out of punishment. When sometimes the best thing to stay out of trouble is to just stay quite.” He gave the boy a pointed look to try and get his message across.

The blonde nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah yeah. What he said.” He rushed over to you and grabbed a bun. Then yelped when he realized how hot it was, juggling it between his hands.

you squinted in suspicion between the pair as you gave him a napkin to hold the treat in. “Uh huh.” Wrapping a second one you passed it to Iruka. “By the way.” You have the blonde your full attention. “What did you think of the milk bread with?”

His eyes sparked at the memory of the delicious bread. “It was so good! Did you makes any today?” Craning his head around the counter, to peak into the back room.

Swating your hand at the boy, you shook your head. “Not today, but I’d be more than happy to send you to class with lunch.” Facing Iruka your smile widened. “In fact, I would love to give you both lunch for the day.”

He waved his hands in front of himself. “We couldn't possibly take advantage of you like that.” His flush, that was starting to fade, flared back to life. Forget angel, this woman was a goddess. He had no idea that she was feeding Naruto. Though he had noticed his lunch containing baked goods more often than not.

With a hand on your hip you frowned. “I’m the one offering, so it wouldn't be putting me out.” Tapping your chin, you slammed a hand in your fist. “What if you paid for lunch, but I throw in desserts for free. That’d be fair, right? “

Seeing that you weren't going to back down without sending them off with free stuff, he nodded.

Clapping your hands together, you were beaming. “What sweets are you boys in the mood for?”

The blonde squinted at the display case. “What’s the sweetest thing you have?”

Without missing a beat, Iruka's mouth was faster than his brain. “She can’t put herself on the menu Naruto.” His blush had somehow doubled and migrated to you as well. “That is to say that you're the sweetest person in the village!”

“Oh.” You weren't sure how far the flushed travel, but your entire body felt as if it was a flame. Busying yourself with wrapping the lunches, with as many extras as you could sneak in. Including a note for Iruka to read later.

Thankfully by the time you had everything packed away, you both had calmed down a bit. “I hope you boys enjoy these.” Handing Naruto his along with a pat on the head. Then facing Iruka, you gave him another dazzling smile.

Your hands brushed as he took the box, they were as plush as the rest of you and warm. He fought off a shiver and gave what he hoped was a handsome smile. “Thank you.”

“Anything for my boys.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He was glad that it was finally time for lunch. With the way his day was going, a break and your cooking was just the pick me up he needed.

Once he got over the shock of how much you had pack in the box. He noticed a note tucked into the corner.

Dear My Favorite Customer,

I mean it everytime when I call you my favorite customer. I was wondering if you would be interested in taking that relationship in a different direction. Call me when you're ready. XXX-XXX-XXXX

Love Your Baker

Rereading the note, he pondered if giving you a call tonight was to soon.

[smolwritingchick]

Smol Brainstorm: You'll be OK!

Author's Note: Another brainstorm I found! This was when Jungkook had to sit out during the London concert of the Love Yourself Tour and Jennie comforted him.

------

Accidents happen. She had hoped that Jungkook understood that. He just needed to sit and rest. Before their London show of their Love Yourself Tour, Jungkook had, unfortunately, injured his foot and had to sit out. So, he performed while seated. Jen knew how disappointed he was and she wished that he wouldn’t beat himself up over it because none of this was his fault. But during Anpanman, when she turned to see where he was, she noticed that he was crying and immediately jogged over to him after seeing Jimin trying to comfort him.

“Hey.” she placed a hand on his back and rubbed it. “I understand this is hard for you but please don’t think any of this is your fault or you let anyone down. Army understands and cares about your well being. They’re happy that you’re here on stage and want you to take it easy.”

“I-I know…” he murmured as she wiped his tears.

“I know how you feel because I’ve been there. You remember when I was hurt, you and the rest of the guys cheered me up at the concerts? I’m going to do the same for you. This is only temporary, okay? Please don’t cry. I want to see you happy,”

She held his hand and gave it a comforting squeeze while Taehyung walked over to comfort him, too. 

“I love you. Bangtan loves you. Army loves you. We are all here for you. Now come on. We won’t let you just sit here like this.” she said with a bright smile.

She wanted him to smile and laugh, so, setting aside the embarrassment, she goofily danced around him, making him and the 95 Liners laugh. 

Ah, there was that cute laugh of his…

Feeling better, Jungkook stood up and sang with Jennie hyping him up, dancing around him.

gyesok dollyeo dollyeo naye Anpan

“What!??” she shouted.

Keep ballin’ ballin’ still bangtan

“Let ‘em know!”

nun tteuni hero but still in miro

geu young man, young man, young man

“SKRRRRT SKRRTTT!”

gyesok mollae mollae sangcheo manttang

“WHOOOOOP!”

But ballin’ ballin’ still bangtan

“OW!”

apado hero duryeoumeun dwiro

Anpanman panman panman

“AAAAAAAAHHHHH!”

Jungkook burst out in laughter as he watched her. She had been hanging around G-Dragon too much to learn how to do some of his famous sound effects. Nonetheless, Jungkook thought she was adorable. After Yoongi’s verse, she rapped, grabbing Jungkook’s hand as they headed down to meet with the rest of the members. 

“I’m a new generation Anpanman!”

“Whooooop!” he playfully copied what she said earlier.

“I’m a new superhero Anpanman!”

“Say what!?”

“naega gajin geon i norae hanbang. Lemme say All the bad men, cop out!”

She felt his arms around her from behind as she received a big kiss on the cheek and a soft “I love you” in her ear while deafening screams from Army were heard when they witnessed the sweet moment.

[anpanbun]

This is your sign to do collaborative storytelling with your friends. Create together, let you make each other worse

[ecargmura]

Wind Breaker Episode 10 Review - Yesterday's Enemies Are Today's Friends

Did you know that only three days have passed in-universe? Episode 1 was a whole day. Episodes 2-4 are the second day and Episodes 5-10 are the third day. Crazy, right? It’s also crazy to have a picnic with your enemies, right? Well, that’s what Umemiya decrees, so it must happen. It’s like that quote, “Yesterday’s enemies could be today’s friends.” Come to think of it, that quote is heavily applied here! Bofurin and Shishitoren are now on good terms with each other!

The picnic scene with Bofurin, Togame and Choji was nice. I guess my only little gripe was that only Togame and Choji were present and not Sako, Arima and Kanuma. I guess it’s a bit more meaningful if the two tops were there and not minions. It was still a missed opportunity for the anime to add the other three, honestly. Anyways, I do like Umemiya’s philosophy on what it means to be the top of a gang. He equates it to eating. He loves eating and wants to be with people as he eats. Having people gathering around him while he eats is the same as being the top of the gang. He gets to do something he likes and do it with others. He’s here because he has people he can count on and people who look up to him. Being the top wasn’t a solo effort, but a team one. It’s a good lesson for Choji as he once had people whom he could count on but chose to leave behind. It’s also a good lesson for Sakura who has always been alone and doesn’t understand what it means to not be alone. It’s a good growing experience for him. 

The scene with Bofurin hanging out at Cafe Pothos was also a nice scene too. Umemiya wanted to know if Sakura was able to convey his words to Togame. However, Sakura never heard a voice or anything. It turns out that Sakura took his words literally instead of figuratively. What Umemiya was trying to get at was for Sakura to feel something for his opponents. I believe it worked because Sakura did try to punch Choji when he kicked Togame. I do believe Togame is the first time he connected with someone through his fists, hence why their bond is rather unique. He’s the reason why Togame was able to make amends with Choji and Shishitoren and deal with that comes after together. No matter how much Sakura denies it, he does like Togame which was why he was very fervent on wanting him to become a cool guy.

Other than the good scenes with Bofurin, I also liked the parts with Choji and Togame. The part where they were prostrating and Sakura scolding them was so cute. However, my favorite part was when the two were sharing anpan together. When Choji was laughing and enjoying the taste of squished anpan, the scene moved Togame so much that he lied about the rain when it was bright and sunny. It reminded me a lot of the scene in Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood where Roy cried at Hughes’s funeral and lied to Hawkeye about the rain. Since the anime, Togame has become one of my favorite characters and to see him cry over the fact that his sun has returned got me emotional. I’m so happy for you, Togame.

However, the best part of the episode was Sakura spitting out his coffee at Umemiya and him actually reacting poorly to the coffee in his eyes. That part was the needed comedy in an emotionally heartwarming episode. Then, the part where Sugishita was threatening to throw a chair at Sakura was also hilarious. I’m surprised he hasn’t been banned from Cafe Pothos yet.

Good news for Wind Breaker fans, there are thirteen episodes, which means that there are three episodes left. As a manga reader, I think there’s enough room to have a good conclusion for the first season. Who knows if a second season will be announced? I sure hope it does because next week is definitely the debut of Tsugeura and Kiryu who are also important characters, but it’d suck if they only get minimal screen time despite having high quality voice actors. What are your thoughts on this episode?

[bossladytae]

Finally, I have compiled a list of songs for my Shinsengumi playlist and I’d like to share it. As usual, I'm using Spotify because it’s easier for sharing and curating public playlists.

There are some overlap choices with the Joui4 playlist, but otherwise, it’s mostly different songs. For the Shinsengumi, I chose songs based on the “fighting spirit,” so to speak, on enduring change – sometimes tough and tragic – and moving forward toward a hopeful future. Some songs speak to various story arcs, invoking characters like Mitsuba and Itou. I also included some that reminded me of Isaburo and Nobume, adding in the Mimawarigumi alongside our thorny men.

There’s a mix of genres, but a lot of hard rock, classic rock, J-rock, with a touch of ambient, post-rock, metal, and prog. I also sprinkled Gintama soundtrack themes throughout with a few notable Gintama OP/ED songs associated with the Shinsengumi and related characters. I tried to place all the songs in order of story arc with some unconnected songs in between. It ended up being a far more upbeat playlist than the Joui one, which I flooded with angsty songs, lol.

Let me explain the selections a bit:

(Before we get into it, here are my other playlists for reference: Joui4, Diamond Perfume, HijiTae, and a Kamui playlist based on a fic I wrote for him.)

We begin with some familiar Shinsengumi anthems along with a couple of song choices that ignite hope and beginnings. Then, we dive right into the Mitsuba arc with her theme and then some songs focused on Hijikata’s love and Sougo’s sorrow. I used Anathema’s “One Last Goodbye” for the Joui4 playlist, too, but for this one, I chose the acoustic version to capture the gentle sorrow of Mitsuba’s passing and Sougo’s feelings (the original version was more akin to the vibe of Joui4).

I thought long and hard about adding in “Impressions II” by Lunatic Soul, and I’m sure some may think I’m cruel for even considering it. But I think it explores grief in a beautifully heart-wrenching way, especially if you’ve been in the room with a loved one about to pass away. I have, and Sougo has, so I kept it in. I didn’t want to shy away from the pain of grief. (Maybe don’t listen to it if you’re highly, emotionally sensitive about the Mitsuba arc.)

Next up: Shinsengumi Crisis arc, beginning with another Gintama soundtrack choice. I then chose songs that invoke Itou’s character, his family history, and his complicated connections with Kondou and Hijikata.

You might be wondering about “Child in Time” by Deep Purple. If you don’t already know, it’s a famous anti-war song by an equally famous band. For this, I thought of Itou (and Isaburo, though his selections occur later), and the wholescale conflict he caused. Gillan’s masterful vocals combined with the rich instrumental make me think of that conflict and Itou’s mental and emotional state. It’s an amazing song. You might also remember it from Twister. Plus, it ties in with Bansai’s words about each character’s songs; he associated Hijikata and Itou with rock and metal, so this suits the chaotic battle in an ironic sense.

“Exit Suite” by Gazpacho wraps up Itou’s story arc. It’s a song I chose as inspiration for my Itou fic.

Next, the Anpan theme! Then some songs that give me Shinsengumi vibes.

Now we’re at the Baragaki arc. I featured “Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park in my Tetsu fic. “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is pretty self-explanatory, and I went with The Hollies’ rock ballad version because I found it suited the Shinsengumi more. I initially wanted “Raize” by Inoran instead because it was also in my Tetsu fic as inspiration, but Spotify doesn’t carry the original version. (Same with LUNA SEA – I had a different song choice, but they don’t have the album there, so I went with “Into the Sun” for Itou’s arc. Several incredible LS songs aren’t even on the app!)

Saitou’s theme! Then Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” for Hijikata as Tosshi and maybe Kondou being head over heels infatuated, lol. I added some songs I featured in other Shinsengumi-centric fics of mine, like “Linda Linda” by The Blue Hearts. Both songs are such classics that I found fit right in with the Shinsengumi and this playlist's vibe.

A little post-rock from Eleventh Vibration to prepare us for the Farewell Shinsengumi arc, which opens with a Gintama soundtrack choice. “Locking Up the Sun” by Poets of the Fall is a song I think nicely encapsulates Kondou’s arrest and threat of execution. Ayden’s “Awaking” to symbolize the Shinsengumi reawakening and preparing to rescue Kondou. Hotei’s “Howling” because of the Shinsengumi’s wolf image (as is consistent with the historical Shinsengumi), plus I just had to have either Hotei and/or his band Boøwy on the list.

Now we’re getting into the Mimawarigumi side of things. I chose High and Mighty Color’s “Dreams” for Nobume and LUNA SEA’s “Be Gone” for the ensuing disarray of the island battle. The bittersweet instrumental at the end of it was also another reason for choosing it as a transition into Isaburo’s section and a nod to Kondou and Hijikata’s emotional reunion. Pineapple Thief’s “God Bless the Child” makes me think of Isaburo’s entire life and his fate in saving Nobume and Tetsu (not to mention the “mark” imagery and Isaburo’s other weapon of choice).

Anathema’s “Wildfires” was used in my Tetsu fic for the end of the island battle and other things, followed by Kamelot’s “Season’s End” for the final goodbye to Isaburo, concluding with a Gintama piano piece. Farewell, email buddy.

Noel Gallagher’s “Fort Knox” represents the Shinsengumi leaving and promising to return. Long Distance Calling’s “Welcome Change” (with two guest vocalists who are also faves of mine, Petter Carlsen and Vincent Cavanagh) speaks to the tough and inevitable change that comes with death, departure, and beginning anew. There’s also a fantastic instrumental in the middle to further drive that point home.

Laugh if you want! But I always think of the Shinsengumi when I hear Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys Are Back In Town” when the Shinsengumi return to Edo, stronger and thornier than ever (I know what other word you thought of there).

J’s “Never End” for the legacy of Gintama’s Shinsengumi. It’s hard to find lyrics, though, because of Onose Jun’s stage name of ‘J’ and search engines giving me other artists. Incidentally, J’s LUNA SEA’s bassist and Inoran, who appeared earlier in the playlist, is their rhythm guitarist. Anyway, the song just feels like it belongs.

And, of course, it begins and ends with DOES. Enough said. Bill Wither’s “Lean on Me” is a heartwarming conclusion to the brotherhood of the Shinsengumi, especially for our main boys.

Just kidding -- it TRULY ends with Hijikata’s mayonnaise cooking show theme. 🤪

Hope you find some familiar or new favourites among my selections, and I hope you overall enjoyed listening! I have really eclectic music taste, I know.

[flyingfitandsugarfree]

Muscle Fuel March (Tuesday 04/03)

3 min warmup + 10 min abs + 20 min power yoga

A little bit cba today (probably because I had to head to work before 2pm and it's my most challenging day of my whole work cycle) but doing my best. During the abs workout I didn't just give up and do easier versions/take a break off the bat; I did push myself a little bit. Not to the max – I don't have that kind of energy today, and I've gotta watch out for my stupid back injury – but I did what I felt I could.

I think I'm getting more of an ass? Idk, I swear it looks rounder. Maybe it's just wishful thinking. My glutes ache today anyway.

Food log under the cut (tw calories)

Today's Intake

[Calories + protein]

Onigiri [131kcal, 2.6g]

Sakura pie manju [167kcal, 2.4g]

Greek yoghurt (lemon) [88kcal, 9.5g]

Anpan [295kcal, 8.7g]

Dried mango [210kcal, 1.2g]

Chicken & sweetcorn soup [288kcal, 21.4g]

Base bread (cinnamon) [235kcal, 13.5g]

Protein bar (chocolate) [290kcal, 25g]

Onigiri [181kcal, 3.2g]

Cola fettuccine gummi [179kcal, 3,3g]

= 2064 / 1950kcal || 90.8 / 80g

Higher intake goal to account for challenging/energetic classes

Umm I forgot about the manju 🙃 It was a spontaneous buy because sakura flavour is just coming in this month and I LOVE sakura flavour so I was like, fuck it treat yourself. And then I forgot about it. Thought I was still within my limit.

On the plus side. I discovered the cheap value supermarket own brand 25g chocolate protein bars are actually really good, so I'll be indulging in those more often!

Report card (about)

Within calorie goal: ❌ (within ±10% = +0.5) Protein target: ✅ +1 Fruit/veggies: ✅✅ +1 Water: ✅✅✅ +3 No binging: ✅ +1 No pepsi zero out of designated hours: ✅ +1 No eating after 9pm: ✅ +1 Exercised 30+ minutes: ✅ +1

Total points: 9.5

Rank: Turk

I'd apologise for giving you 3 Reno gifs in a row if I was actually sorry (which I'm not because he's beautiful and I love him)

[lemeg]

Food I Have Eaten because of Saezuru

<pic 1> See Chapter 7: "If I drink this, the flavour will spread out over my tongue. Sweet and a little..."

<pic 2> Cup noodles that Yashiro knocked over in the flashback in Chapter 10.

<pic 3> See Chapter 22: "Does it taste good?" "I don’t really know."

<pic 4> Anpan that Doumeki bought for Kamiya in Chapter 40, because "I [Doumeki] just thought you [Kamiya] liked sweet things".

<pic 5> Black coffee that Doumeki drank in the same chapter.

<pic 6> Beer at Inami's residence in Chapter 47. You didn't notice, did you??

[1-marigold-1]

Congrats on the Martyn reblog and reply lmfao

Thanks!! It's actually a second time he's done this (he reblogged my lamplight fanart before)

but it's the first time he left a comment

that's so funny, he says, as my brain still stuck in the Dogwarts walls screams in agony

there are two options to this, either he genuinely never thought of that or he's just messing with me (99% the first option)

anyways I love how almost everyone collectively agreed that he meant Dogwarts but the man himself "never thought of that" huh (looking at you with wide eyes Anpan and Norrgen, you get me)