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sleepybbie · 1 year ago

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#TRENDING ! | nagi x reader

summary: your and nagi’s name seemed to be in the main headline of hashtags on twitter when you woke up one day…

proplayer!nagi x idol!fem!reader

warning! mentions of threats and hate comments,

a/n: this fic is based on episode 9 of season 2 of aggretsuko on netflix when they found out retsuko and tadano were dating TwT

it really wasn’t tensional.

you were feeling lonely, and so did he. nagi followed what you told him. he thought if he were to hide through his identity with a cap, mask, and some glasses, then he wouldn’t be easily recognized by the public, and then he would be able to meet up with you in secret with no one to disturb you two. go at his place, exchange kisses and words of affirmation, cuddle and have your time together.

the pro football player, going out with one of the most beautiful known idols in japan. basically you. it was a death sentence at just that.

ever since your manager, sara, allowed you to date someone after the success of your first solo album to be released, you had never been more happy to tell nagi the news, in which he too was delighted, kissing the temple of your head after. finally, you don’t have to hide your phone every time she checks.

your manager says that if this information were ever to be turned in public, there’s a chance that your career would have a turn for the worse, and that you have to keep it private.

fans are crazy, she says. and she wasn’t wrong.

you received a couple of threats from letters you thought were fan letters, and even some during your concerts, in which they were gladly taken away by security and were banned from ever attending to your concerts. being famous is scary, but nagi had became your comfort after all of that. that’s why you dated him. surprisingly, you two have already been dating for 3 years, in secret from your manager even. only his best friend reo knows about your relationship and so as your two closest friends. they were amazing at keeping secrets.

you promised your manager that you would try your best to keep a low profile when going out, using the same method every famous people do when walking outside in public—which is wearing a disguise.

since the two of you were famous, you told nagi that the best disguise is just a simple cap, mask, sunglasses and an attire that would look plain. nagi took these suggestions in mind, and used them one day during a rest day. you were used to wearing disguises, so you had a usual waiting for you in your hotel room. you had finished doing a song rehearsal, and nagi messaged to you if you wanted to go out on a date for your free day.

without thinking, you said ‘yes.’

maybe you should always take your manager’s words in your head all the time. and the thing is, she had no idea you were dating him.

wednesday, 11:02am

sara sat down on the computer chair as she slammed the finished documents over her desk, stretching her arms up in the air along with a tired sigh escaping her lips. she just finished her paperwork for your album, talking to various producers who’ll help you out and such, making schedules and plans afterwards.

thank goodness it was a rest day, you were probably busy anyways and she doesn’t want to do anymore work for she only messaged to you about the upcoming rehearsal you were having on friday and to prepare. and that was that. the stress she was having at the moment irked her.

“it’s like seeing my old self…ugh, my back hurts..”

without saying anything more, she opened her computer, google, then checked out the latest news. maybe a little drama could spice up her boring day..

“new trial; kiinomori, says not guilty,” boring.

“a car crash happening after a cos event, yesterday,” do car crashes always happen now?

“japan’s new technology shocks the tokyo community,” eh, not interested

“wanted: extra line artist,” why are you even looking for help here on the news website??!

‘even the news are starting to become uninteresting…well at least the crime rates aren’t going up any sooner..’ she thoughts to herself, clicking on the mouse to see if there were any particular headlines that might catch her interest. maybe about you would be nice.

however, something stopped her from scrolling.

“photo of japan’s football genius and japan’s most beloved idol’s lovey-dovey date.”

her eyes widen a little. no, that was impossible. you wouldn’t find a boyfriend that soon, right? and a football player? no, far too impossible..it just might be another idol, yeah. maybe even a colleague? yeah, that must be it.

steadily, her mouse clicked on the news page, and in an instant it opened.

“are the two going out as friends? or something more?” was what the article stated in the first sentence. sara took a good look on the photos, and all she could see was what she recognized to be the genius nagi seishiro’s back, his white hair flowing out of the cap on his head, holding a lemon tea drink in his hand, and the other in his pockets. nagi seishiro, the proclaimed genius football player who participated in the blue lock project? dating? sara barely knew anything about him, but woah.

beside nagi, was a girl smaller than him. sara couldn’t see her face, so she went forward to scroll down for more pictures.

that moment when she continues to scroll down on her computer, eyes intensely trying to take a good look on the photos took by the secret paparazzi, they kept only taking shots of nagi’s face, not even bothering to let the viewer look at who he’s with. her patience was almost running out…

that was until…she finally identified who the footballer was with.

time pauses, the tranquil silence was eerie, and sara felt her heart stop at the moment. jaw dropped, eyes wide, and the cup of coffee she bought at starbucks almost fell to the ground, a drip of the coffee falling on her desk.

“y…y/n..?”

then the whole public went on fire.

“WHATTTTTTTTTT???????!!”

“EEEEHHHH????”

“HUHHH????”

“HAHH?????”

“FOR REAL?????”

“HWHSHUHHHH???”

“OH MY GOOODDDDDDDD??????”

the article, with now over 2 million views, ended the statement with, “will the two get married soon??”

“a-aha..ahaha..they’re joking right?? y/n with t-that guy..? ahaha..ahaha..” one was on the verge of insanity from astonishment.

“PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER, MA’AM!”

the number one trending hashtag on twitter, over 400 brand new tweets not long after the news broke out in public. your closest friends, saw the article. and not long after they tried their best to contact you to no avail.

“you’ve seen the article?”

“yes, i have. have you seen the way y/n’s instagram has been popping up after?” one of your friends showed the other on her phone screen, your verified instagram page. it seems your followers had multiplied after the article was posted online. from 30k to now 70k followers. your friends were able to read the newly added comments from your last post. the other comments are mostly from the good fans, showing their support for you and nagi’s relationship, and some were mostly from those nagi fangirls in which they despise the most..

‘found her lol.’

‘nagi could do better lmao.’

‘she’s not even that good looking.’

‘she’s just attention seeking lol.’

yeah, they definitely despise them. since not long, the two were preparing their bot accounts, about to fight them back.

even the team blue lock members’ were able to read the article, jaws dropped on the floor in surprise. how did the lazy genius managed to pull a famous idol like you?

“wha…what is…what’s this..?”

“holy crap, so this is why they’re trending?”

“i…i’m shocked.”

“woah! nagichi is actually dating y/n? how lucky, aha! they’re trending!”

“is that a good thing or a bad thing?”

“so this is what that guy’s keeping away from us, huh?!”

“i didn’t even know he was dating someone. better yet, someone famous.”

“is this also why he’s late for practice?”

“it’s almost 3 million views now, they really are taking over the headlines.”

“wait, since they’re dating can i ask nagi if i can get an autograph from her??”

“shut up, igaguri.”

your friends were almost screaming at the end of the line when you answered their call, curled up over your bed and a little shaking, covering your naked body in the blankets with a sleepy nagi next to you. this wasn’t intentional, it really wasn’t. you didn’t know, you didn’t know that there was a secret paparazzi nearby. now you’re scared of what your manager might say to you after this. will she force you two to break up? or never see each other again? make you say you’re just friends with him? no, no, anything but that.

you thought the morning routine for this day would be blissful, with yesterday’s love making was comforting and full of passion, and now you’re awoken with news about you and nagi’s relationship now being in public.

“Y/N! YOU AND NAGI ARE TRENDING.”

“y-yeah, i know..” your voice was hush, like a whisper. you felt afraid of what might happen.

“y/n, are you alright over there? we can come over if you want. is nagi there with you right now?”

“n-no, you guys don’t have to..and yeah, he’s with me right now...’s just asleep..” you replied.

“it’s insane. it hasn’t even been hours and you two are—

your other friend’s voice has been cut off quick, “you don’t have to remind that to her..! listen, y/n, don’t be scared ok? i know it’s scary, but stay strong. trust me, that’ll get over soon.”

their voices are a little muffled on the end of the line, probably fighting over the phone.

the moment you felt movement beside you, you were quick to turn your head to see nagi already waking up from his sleep. great, now how are you going to tell him?

“guys, i’ll call you back later. i have to talk to sei about it. bye now.” then the call dropped. when you looked back over to nagi, his eyes were half lidded, white locks covering his right eye as he rubbed them awake.

“morning..”

“ah…morning, sei…uh..” you nervously avoided eye contact, fingers padding through your phone to look for the article about you and your now public boyfriend that went viral online. nagi tried to pull your figure close to him, arms wrapping over your stomach with a mumble, “it’s so early…hey y/n…go back to sleep with me..”

“it’s 11am now, sei..don’t you have practice today..?”

“ah, you’re right…what a bother..too tired from last night..” fuck, how are you supposed to tell him now? it’s now or never.

“hey, sei…i think you should see this..”

“huh?”

passing your phone over to your boyfriend, you anxiously played with your fingers as you can spot his pupils reading the article displayed over the screen, lazily. it took him some time to finish, his thumb scrolling down to continue reading before nagi lays the phone down between the both of you and groans. “ahh…what a pain. how did they even manage to recognize us? ‘thought my disguise was good..”

“paparazzis are terrifying..” was what you replied. in a few moments, you sighed, covering your face with both of your palms, letting go of the blanket that was covering your upper chest. “what should we do? this is bad…if sara sees this then we’re done for…how did this happen?? oh please, i don’t wanna leave you, sei..”

“didn’t she say you’re allowed to be in a relationship?”

“yeah, as long as i keep it private..!” you say, almost yelling at him. nagi stares at you, hugging the pillow he’s laying underneath. realization hits you, then you covered your mouth, embarrassed. “ah, sorry…i didn’t mean to yell at you..”

“ts fine…” he responds. you hid your face beneath your palms again, expression filled with nothing but worry and little fear. your insta’s been popping up, more followers were added and even more comments popping at your last post. and when you looked over to twitter to see your name trending over the hashtags, the whole world fell down over your shoulders.

“hey, y/n…look at me.”

you couldn’t.

“y/n. hey, let me see you..” nagi who was now sitting up, grabbed both of your hands off of your face to make you look at him.

pretty, you were so pretty. so pretty for him. “it’s gonna be alright..”

“no, no—easy for you to say but…my..my manager..she’ll..” then you looked down over the blanket again, breath hitching as you struggled to breathe a little. nagi had to hold you close to him in order to calm you down, hands brushing your hair, voice hushing your small whimpers. “shh, hey, hey..take deep breaths…c’mon…calm down..”

he always did that when you had panic attacks. most of the time after your concerts or handshakes with your fans. nagi holds you close, then stays quiet. maybe you’re overreacting a little bit…yet at the same time, it’s going to be scary facing the public afterwards.

nagi stayed with you for a while until you could face him calmly, with steady breaths and a peaceful heart. he could see the notifs popping up on his phone.

99+ new messages.

38 missed calls from reo

17 missed calls from isagi and the rest ongoing. his phone too was exploding this morning. but first he has to make sure you’re ok.

when you finally managed to calm down, nagi continues to brush your hair back, looking straight to your eyes. “feel a little better?”

you nodded. “just…just still a bit scared of sara..”

“yeah? well i’ll make sure to apologize. i was the one who dragged you out after all.”

“n-no, sei! you don’t have to i—that’ll make it more worse i’ll be the one to talk to her.” nagi shakes his head, not approving of your idea. “it would be a hassle if you had to go through that alone…at least let me talk to her too..” your boyfriend caressingly rubs your hand together with his, he could still spot the small bruises he left on your neck..a loving gaze pictured over his face.

“it wouldn’t be so much work unlike practice. i’ll come with you…wherever you are. sometimes i wish we were cats so we can spend 9 lives together, y’know?”

you couldn’t say anything much for this dork, except pull nagi for another hug. you prayed to whatever existed that you don’t ever get pulled away from him, your beloved. you sometimes wished things don’t turn out to be in a bad way, after all, you’re an idol of love and kindness. however sometimes, maybe the entertainment industry should be less strict on their idols, including you. nagi was the only one that made you feel alive from them. from all the negativity you’ve been feeling because of what you do.

you love nagi seishiro. and nagi seishiro loves you. that’s there to it.

in the end, you and nagi managed to talk to sara about the whole relationship situation going on, and the only thing she was mad about was that fact you didn’t tell her you were dating, better yet a pro player. she just gave you a warning and then head straight to ask permission to your company about your relationship.

then not long after too, the situation calmly fainted down, and everything went back to normal. maybe except about some of your fans who are quite upset that you’re in a relationship.

still, you were glad the company was kind enough to let you two stay together. maybe it’s because you’re with someone famous, too, but it didn’t really matter.

yeah, maybe you were overreacting.

#nagi x reader #blue lock #bllk x reader #blue lock x reader #nagi seishiro #nagi seishiro x reader #seishiro nagi #nagi x y/n #lily’s.blog🌸#lily’s.fic🩷

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ktempestbradford · 1 year ago

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A Story for Star Trek Day

I've told this story on Twitter before. I tell it every Star Trek Day and whenever a Deep Space 9 anniversary rolls around. It's about me and Avery Brooks (aka Best ST Captain Benjamin Sisko).

The college my mother went to specifically started recruiting top Black students in the 60s. Due to this, the Black kids all mostly knew each other as they were in that same program. Avery Brooks went to the same college and they were good friends.

(She once told me he had a huge crush on her and I was like MOM. MOTHER. WHAT. HOW COULD YOU HE COULD HAVE BEEN MY DAD.)

Anyway, many of the students in this program remained friends long after college. So over the years as Avery was getting TV gigs & such we would all watch cuz he was my mom's friend & I thought that was the coolest. There was one particularly fun night when my best friend's uncle, Frankie Faison, guest starred on A Man Called Hawk. TWO people we know on TV!

When I was in middle school Avery was touring his production of "Paul Robeson" and it came through our town, so I got to see him perform in person (awesooooome) and meet him for the first time since I was a baby (which I did not remember, of course).

Now, backing up a little bit: I am a Star Trek fan because of my mom. She loved the original series and I remember being a wee Tempest in front of the TV watching The Wrath of Khan and us excitedly going to see Star Trek IV together.

I watched TNG from the instant it appeared on TV because of her. I watched all of The Animated Series even though everyone looked "wrong". (Man... it took me 4 months to realize that dude in the red shirt was Scotty cuz I'd only ever seen movie Scotty.)

Then... they announced Deep Space 9.

We heard Avery Brooks would be the commander and there was MUCH rejoicing around our house. DS9 turned out to be the best Trek ever and, of course, Avery was awesome. This was around the time my mom dropped that "he had a crush on me but I wasn't interested" bombshell.

I'm still bitter.

I mean, I love my dad he's great. But SISKO COULD HAVE BEEN MY DAD.

I lost my mom in 1999. She was--and I'm not exaggerating--an extraordinary woman and beloved by many. I received so many beautiful messages of condolence from her friends all the way back to those college years, including Avery. So many people remembered her fondly. <3

I kept watching Star Trek and often talked to her as if she was there during episodes. She would have LOVED Discovery. Especially since she took me to RENT the year I started college. I'm sure she would have shared my opinion of Enterprise as well. But she loved her some Scott Bakula, so she would have watched, anyway.

I got the chance to interview Avery Brooks at DragonCon back in 2013 (jeez, it's been almost 10 years omg). Before the interview, I went up to him on the Walk of Fame and I said:

Hi, I'm (name K stands for) Bradford, I don't know if you remember me...

And he looked up and said: Of course I remember you.

We talked for a bit and I asked if I could come back and interview him later and he said yes (he wasn't supposed to; his handler had A LOOK). I didn't want to hold up his line, so I said I'd see him later.

Before I could go, he reached out for my hand and squeezed it before saying: I loved your mama, you know.

And we just stayed like that for a few seconds, missing her together.

...I might have been trying very hard not to burst into tears.

That DragonCon was the last time I saw Avery. Barring an extraordinary circumstance, that's probably the last time I'll see him in person. I'm glad we got to have that moment together. And we had a great conversation!

His contribution to Trek has meant so much to me. SISKO4EVA

And I'm glad that it's another tie between me, my mom, and Trek. I can't watch DS9 without hearing her voice giving color commentary. Even the episodes she didn't live to see.

I think Star Trek is part of what gave her hope for the future. She passed that on to me. ❤️🖖🏾❤️

Happy Star Trek Day to all who celebrate.

#Star Trek Day #Sisko #Deep Space 9 #DS9 #Star Trek

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khjswifey · 2 years ago

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{Forever You Are My Star} [K.HJ]

Kim Hongjoong x Atiny!Reader

Idol Au, Long distance relationship au

After two long years of dating, you finally get to meet you boyfriend and at your favorite group's concert too! But hold on...the leaders voice sounds a bit familiar.

A/N: I hope you all enjoy my first fanfic! I want to continue this lil au, and possible make more for the other members! Let me know if you would be interested in that, Other than that:

Happy Reading!

Tags: @soobinshouseplant

𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ • 𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ •

“Hey Baby..”

“Hiii…”

A soft chuckle filtered through your phone speaker.

“I’m sorry for calling you so late…”

“Joon, that’s completely fine, You know I stay up late anyways…”

You hear a sigh before he begins to talk again.

“Baby.?”

“Yeah?”

“You still live in (city name), right?”

“Yea, why do you ask?” You asked, curiosity/excitement lacing your tone. Your boyfriend chuckles at you, “Well, we’ll finally be able to meet!” You gasped in excitement, nearly falling off your bed.

You and your boyfriend, Joon, had been dating for about 2 years now, and yes it was a long distance relationship.

The two of you had met online through your art twitter. You did a lot of fanart of your favorite kpop group, Ateez, as well as tattoo ideas. The tattoo designs are what introduced you to your loving boyfriend.

He replied under one of your posts, interested in commissioning a design and it has been you and him against the world ever since.

Yes, you don’t know how he looks, and he may have various different pictures of you, but you put all your trust in him and you highly doubted he was a catfish.

He always showered you with gifts, and always called you when he got the time to. He rarely showed his face, but you saw his desk and his work area.

You believed he was real and you were excited at the prospect of finally being able to meet him.

“I can tell you’re excited…” Joon started, “I am too..I can’t wait to hold you…” You felt your face heat up as you heard him mumble something in Korean under his breath.

“What was that?”

“I said I can’t wait to hold you and have you whimpering underneath me, Jagi..”

You squealed in embarrassment as you slammed your phone on the bed. You heard him laughing at you before calling your name.

The two of you sat in silence for a little while after that, nothing but the soft clicking of your boyfriend's laptop coming through the speakers. He finally spoke up again with a little chuckle.

“Well��I bought you a concert ticket…”

“Joon!”

“What? I thought it was a good idea since we both like concerts~!”

You only hummed in response, not having the time to argue with him tonight, your phone pinged and you sighed.

“I’ll see you in two days!”

“See you~”

Your phone hung up and you went to check your Ticketmaster account, your eyes widened,

You got the tickets! -

X1 Atiny VIP Ticket

My future husband: You’re welcome~

My future husband: I love you.

𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ • 𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ •

“Y/n, how do you know he will be there?’

“Don’t you think you’re being used..’

You groaned at your friend. “F/n. I don’t think a catfish would drop the money for this ticket like that. It was expensive.”

“So!? Maybe he’ll try to use a little money to kidnap you!”

You grew frustrated as you did your makeup. You had told F/n about what had happened and to make sure you were safe, she was coming along.

F/n was never supportive of your relationship, always judging you for ‘wasting’ your time on a dude that you are only just now meeting. But you also couldn’t blame her, girls did go missing when meeting their online boyfriends. But no matter how you tried to convince her, she wouldn’t listen to you. She didn’t even like Ateez! So she was basically wasting her money.

“What if he’s lying to you about his identity-”

“That’s enough, F/n!!” You yelled at her, finally snapping from the constant negative comments. “If you wanna come then come. But if you’re not going to shut the fuck up already!”

F/n stared at you in shock. “How dare you? I’m trying to keep you from getting catfished!!” She yelled back and you rolled your eyes pushing past her, grabbing your bag.

You got your keys and looked at her, “Find your own ride to the damn concert. Don’t bother being around me.” You said leaving her behind.

You were actually surprised she even still came to the concert. You glared at her and she gave you an apologetic look when she caught up to you.

When you walked into (venue name), you beamed with excitement. Not only were you going to finally meet your boyfriend, you got to see your all time favorite kpop group!

It was refreshing to be around fellow Atiny, you chatted with several around you in the pit. You ended up getting real close from you leaving early. Your blood was pumping through your body when the lights finally dimmed. You screamed as you watched as the members of Ateez came onto the stage.

It felt unreal, it didn’t feel real at all. You couldn’t believe that you were finally here. A couple of songs had gone by when you finally found the time to let your boyfriend know where you were. But you were shocked to see a message from him around 2 years ago that simply said;

“Look at the stage.”

When you looked back up, you locked eyes with Kim Hongjoong, the leader of Ateez, your bias, your Ult bias to be exact. His eyes were locked on you as he introduced himself to the crowd. Your brain froze.

When he spoke, his voice sounded familiar, and not just from you listening to music. No it was like you knew him on a personal level.

“F/n…” You said, capturing your friends' attention, concerned at your tone. “What’s wrong? Is it that boy?” She asked.

You looked back up to the stage, watching as Ateez prepared for their next set of songs.

“I think my boyfriend is the leader of Ateez..”

“...You mean as a joke right…?”

“....”

“...oh…”

𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ • 𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ •

“What do you mean you think your boyfriend is a member of Ateez!?”

It was after the concert, and you were instructed by your boyfriend to meet him afterwards backstage. All you had to do was tell the security your name and they led you to where you were now.

F/n was very skeptical and was weary about leaving you alone, but after a while of convincing she finally left, making sure she had you added on Life360 just in case.

You stood there waiting, watching as various staff members worked around you. You were starting to think that he wasn’t going to come at all.

You looked down at your phone and sighed, turning to leave.

“Baby!”

You whip around to find the owner of the voice, and lo and behold it was Kim Hongjoong. He was now dressed comfortably, makeup gone and a soft blush on his face with a lazy smile.

You smile wide and run up to him, nearly tackling him to the ground with a hug. He laughs and wraps his arms around you, holding you tightly as if you were going to vanish if he let go.

When he did let go, he pulled away a bit to place a kiss on your lips. You melted into his grasp only pulling away when you needed air from the male.

The two of you looked at each other for a while. One half of you wanted to fight him for lying to you, but you knew he had his reasons, but the other was so happy that he was real and that he was not only your idol, but your lover.

“Hongjoongie…” You mumbled, hiding your face in his chest.

He chuckled as he held you close to him, “It’s so nice to hear you say my name…” He replied, finally pulling away.

When he did, he held your hands and swung them back and forth. He looked like a lovesick puppy, his eyes filled with love and adoration.

“Do you have anywhere else to go?...”

“No not really…”

“Well…could you maybe come back with me?”

You giggle at his bashfulness, nodding. “Of course, You have a lot of explaining to do..”

Hongjoong smiles before pulling you along with him.

𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ • 𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ •

Hongjoong paid for your visit to his hotel room, not leaving until he made sure you were safely on your way.

When you got there, you finally got to meet the other members, it was surreal for you. Just yesterday you were catching up on missed content, laughing as you watched Ateez go about their antics. Now you are meeting them and apparently dating their leader.

To say you were nervous would be an understatement, you were nearly shitting bricks.

But it actually went over well, Hongjoong introduced you to them one by one. You happily introduced yourself, shaking their hands until you got to Wooyoung, who had a smug grin.

“You’re really pretty. No wonder cap-” He was cut off by Hongjoong flinging something at him. You giggled at this as the rest of the evening with the boys went fine. It was spent with you explaining how you met Hongjoong, talking about how much you loved their music and how you really appreciated how nice they were being to him.

Later on, Hongjoong led you to his room, which you tilted your head at.

“I thought you guys shared rooms when you went on tour?”

“We do, the guys wanted to give us privacy though..”

You felt your face heat up as you walked over and flopped on the bed. Hongjoong then joined you, leaning his head on your stomach.

The two of you sat in silence for a while, basking in the silence before he spoke up.

“I’m sorry…” He started, moving to sit up, you moved to sit up at the head board.

“Hon-”

“I’m sorry for not telling you who I was y/n…I was scared…” He admits and it hurt your heart with how he avoided eye contact. He sighed before finally turning to you.

“When I found out you were an Atiny..I got scared. I thought you were only gonna like me because of who I am on stage…” You watched him carefully as he continued.

“I thought you weren’t gonna love me for me…So I hid it. It’s why I rarely showed my face when we talked. But when I saw your face…” Hongjoong reached over to cup your cheek, eyes misty. You felt your own tears welling up in your eyes, threatening to fall.

“Hongjoong…” You started moving closer to the male, your faces barely touching. “I’m in love with you…all of you…the Idol you and the normal you. Yes I may be an Atiny, but I love you. Not your career.” You say softly leaning on him.

“I was worried…that you wouldn’t like me once you met me. That you would’ve thought I was a weirdo or that-mmph!” Your rant was cut off by Hongjoong kissing you, he pulled you into his arms, your eyes widened as he silenced you. They eventually fluttered closed as he deepened the kiss, only pulling away to hide his face in the crook of your neck.

“You’re always loved by me…I trust you y/n..”

A small smile ghosted across your features as the two of you stayed that way for a while.

You felt at peace knowing that you could now love both forms of him..

𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ • 𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ •

You were sad when you had to say goodbye to your boyfriend. One night was definitely not enough time for you to get all what you had to say to him off your chest.

And there was obviously a lot more that Hongjoong wanted to do, but that would have to wait for the next time you would meet.

So when you got home, you were watching through your concert footage when you got a notification.

‘Ateez_official_ has made a post’

You clicked it and felt your heart do a mini flip.

‘[#Hong_stagram] Forever you are my star ❤️’

It was a black and white picture of the two of you holding hands with the caption;

‘[#Hong_stagram] Forever you are my star <3’

𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ • 𓂂 ♱⠀◌ ⠀◯ ⭑ ⸱ ៰ ͘ ࣭ ⠀𓂂 ♱⠀◌ •

#ateez fanfic #ateez fluff #ateez imagines #ateez scenarios #ateez x reader #kim hongjoong #kim hongjoong x reader #Hongjoong x reader #Hongjoong fluff #ATEEZ x reader fluff #ateez x you #ateez

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otomiyaa · 1 year ago

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nice.png

(literally how I named the image, couldn't think of something else)

Hi guys :') To my followers and tumblr friends, I'm really sorry if my sudden disappearance scared or upset you. It wasn't quite... planned. And today was a busy day and I needed some time to consider what I wanted to do.

Short version of the story:

My tumblr account got terminated for copyright infringement. A certain Mr. Green got me in unlucky trouble (ref 1, 2).

I won't get it back, or try to get it back. It's gone.

Needed a moment to consider 2 options: ask Mia to extend my dramatic farewell letter and stay gone, or make a new blog.

Not planning to post new writing here. I won't be using words like 'never' or 'forever' because I'm a known clown with things like this, but the intention is to no longer post fics. I will finish Tickletober on AO3 and then take a break from writing. So yes, I cancel the swiftscribbles event too, sorry!

When I opened my laptop, I could see my old blog in its final hour lmao (I found out about the loss on my phone). So that's what the snap is from on a fitting grave. It was fun while it lasted!

Long version of the story:

Losing my blog(s): My Tumblr account with main blog + sideblogs got terminated overnight, it was quite the surprise! I've either been reported or tracked by bots. The posts are a bunch of numbered URLs I can't open, but the message is clear: for including anime content, genshin impact or media from other sources (whether it's videos, screenshots, official art, gifs or even fanwork) you technically can get a strike. Upon googling the claimer I quickly found this first, and knew it was a lost cause. Although it feels shitty and unlucky, I am in no place to appeal. It's like when I used to make AMVs in the past, you never knew whether a song or even anime footage was going to give your YT account a copyright strike or even a ban, it was a gamble. I have lost YT accounts before, and now I lost the Tumblr one. With 7+ years of tickle trash content and a bunch of sideblogs. But oh well, moving on!

Starting a new blog: It was a serious consideration whether this was my ultimate chance to do what I've always said I wanted to do eventually - quit my blog. My first thought was to ask Mia to share my explanation and literal goodbye with you guys, and stick to my chaos of a Twitter account to indulge in fandom stuff. But then I thought of how happy Tumblr made me, even without the fic writing, but just.. reblogging things, getting random asks, shouting about life and of course, about tickles. I decided to make a new blog after all, but also decided the following:

The 7K+ milestone swiftscribbles event is cancelled, for which I apologize! The follower milestone, together with the motivation to write the fics, and even the asks with the requests I got, all died with my former blog.

I will see how long I can survive without posting a new fic or drabble. A loose headcanon or two might fly around sometime. And if necessary, a link to a new fic on AO3.

Tickletober? Hell yes I'll finish it, I would cringe in bed for 49 days at least if I would stop. I just won't post the fics here, but on AO3.

Reposting/reblogging my old works? Undecided at the moment but I'm tired and lazy. I don't feel too upset since most of my fics are still on AO3 at least and not completely gone.

Anyways, I'll see what happens and how long I can enjoy this nerfed version of blogging.

Surprisingly I'm not upset about losing my other blog, there were a lot of memories but it was also very cringe. I'm gonna be just as cringe here, but at least I feel cleansed.

For those who choose to follow me again, thank you, but please know that there won't be much original content coming from me, for now!:)

#tickle community #otomiya-tickles #announcement

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wonwoonlight · 2 years ago

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When you're dating S.Coups from Seventeen but no one believes you.

Idol!Cheol x reader // fluff // not proofread // happy Christmas guys! A little something that would hopefully feel like a gift for you💚❤️

"Babe, you're still into them?" Gyuri shakes her head as she sees the Weverse notification on your phone. "You don't even like other idols, do you?"

You grin shamelessly and nod a yes, proudly telling them you're not interested in idols in general except for them.

"Why do you like them so much, though?" Haru asks, genuinely interested. Your personality is not exactly one for fangirling life, but you have, for reasons that they don't understand, been following Seventeen for about four years now.

And that's not even the weirdest thing.

"I told you it's because my boyfriend is in the group."

That is.

They've known you for almost a decade; and while, yes, you're not exactly best friends, you're still close enough to keep each other around since high school. And while 16 year-old you had always side eyed classmates that went too crazy on fangirling, they had never imagined it would be you saying an idol is your boyfriend with the most shameless shrug they could imagine seeing almost ten years later.

"Yeah, yeah." They laugh as they shake their head, luckily finding you amusing, if anything. "You've been saying that for how long, now?"

You share a knowing look with Hina, the only one who knows of your relationship with Seungcheol. She's your closest friend, the only one besides your family who knows of the relationship; you've introduced her to him, too, and you've actually been thinking it's time to introduce him to the rest of your clossse circle.

It's been a little past four years since you've started dating Seungcheol too, and you've both (along with the boys) decided that he's come far enough in his career and your relationship is stable enough to come out to his fans if you're ever caught.

That said, you think it's only right to start with your close friends. You're glad they've never been pushy when it comes to your relationship, and have simply accepted that whoever you've been seeing the past few years is someone you'd like to keep to yourself.

They've seen you talk with him on the phone from time to time, and it's clear how happy you are and, frankly, that's the only thing that matters. You've told them his name, but never a face to match it with. You'd talk about him from time to time too, and from the way your gaze softens everytime you do, they think it's okay not to know who he is as long it's clear he makes you happy.

"Is your boyfriend okay with you liking them?" Haru prods, finally done with the cookies she's just put into your oven. It's Christmas dinner in your place, and while you've said that you can just order in, Haru has insisted to bake her cookies anyway even if you want to order the meals. "What's his name, again? Your favorite--S.Coups?"

Hina holds back a laugh as you grin and hum a confirmation, not minding her that much. Ah, it's been quite some time since you hear someone around you refers to him by that name.

[17:22] Cheol: u home??

[17:25] Yesss. I told you I'm having a Christmas dinner with my friends, right?

[17:25] Cheol: huh right

[17:26] Cheol: do you have any idea when it'll end?

"S.Coups. General leader. August 8, 1995." You look up as Haru starts to list down the fact she's reading off some site. Gyuri plops down next to her on the sofa, giggling at the turn of events. "Real name Choi Seungcheol--huh? Wait. Is that why he's your favorite? Because he shares a name with your boyfriend?"

You blink innocently and shrugs again, not really giving them anything before texting Seungcheol you can't tell for sure when the dinner will finish.

"Is that why you keep on saying your boyfriend is in the group?" Gyuri giggles, somehow ending up looking through his pictures on twitter. "Oh wow. He does look good. Can relate why he's your favorite."

Huh.

Wait.

"I also can tell why you keep on saying he's your boyfriend." She continues, going through his instagram for some reason. "I mean, look at these pictures. Wouldn't be surprised if his girlfriend actually takes them."

You bite down a grin as you hear her talk. You did take some of those pictures, though now that you've experienced it, it's weird to listen to someone talking about your boyfriend like this.

"Right." Hina agrees with an amused grin. "Doesn't that mean that our girl right here took them?"

"Yep. I did." You laugh at your friends' grimaces, but you continue on telling them about where exactly you took those pictures even though they're not even trying to pretend they believe you.

"Girl, we love you but we can only defend you so much." Haru shakes her head in mock scolding. "I didn't know you liked them to that point. You sound like my 12 years-old sister, you know? She's been saying Kim Mingyu is her boyfriend. That guy is 13 years older than her! Thirteen!"

Kim Mingyu, huh. How did you not know Haru's sister is into Seventeen? You keep in mind to ask a favour from them and give Haru's sister a signed album for her birthday. She's like your niece, after all.

"A girl can dream." Hina shrugs like she's defending you (or Haru's sister?) and the sound of your laughter fills the room before the talk spirals from there.

It's almost three hours later when you hear your door unlocks, the four of you sharing a very confused look with each other because you definitely said you're not expecting anyone.

Fear has only started to creep in when Gyuri asks if anyone knows the code to your apartment, and before you can even answer, you hear Seungcheol’s whiny voice booming through the room.

"Babe, why are you not answering my texts? I asked if--oh. Hi."

All of you gape at him, but moreso Haru and Gyuri because what the fuck.

"Merry Christmas?" Seungcheol adds in hesitance, bringing up the wine in his hand with a sheepish smile. "I'm Seungcheol. The boyfriend."

Hina laughs as Haru slaps your arm hard, and you hiss despite the amusement in bubbling in your chest. It's only later on when Seungcheol's in the toilet that you get to finally tease them.

"Why didn't you say your boyfriend is a celebrity!"

"I told you my boyfriend's in Seventeen, didn't I?"

A/N: Merry Christmas! A little something bc I've missed writing and I got time to squeeze in today. Hope you enjoyed this ❤️💚 Gonna be busy again until right before new year so🥹 see you guys then hopefully🥰

#scoups fluff #scoups scenarios #seventeen fluff #seventeen imagine #seventeen fanfic #seventeen scenarios #seungcheol fluff #seungcheol scenario #seungcheol scenarios #seungcheol imagines #scoups imagines #scoups fanfic #seventeen au

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dear--mars · 1 year ago

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05 Hating you?? — setup

tartaglia x f!reader

After 3 hours of shopping and thousands of dollars later here you were, sitting in one of the highest classed restaurants, wearing a dress that could pay off your rent for the next couple of months. Childe sits in front of you but he keeps checking his watch. You look at him suspiciously before realizing you're sitting at a group table.

“Childe?” He comes and responds before looking up at you.

“Why are we really here?”

“???”

“You keep looking at your watch like you're waiting for somebody and we're sitting at a group table so it seems like we're not the only ones going to be eating here…”

“...okay, I have a huge favor to ask of you.”

“No.”

“You don't even know what it is, please! Just hear me out!” I look at him as he gives me pleading eyes before I shrugged and let him explain.

“Okay, so I should start from the beginning. As you know my parents own one of the most successful electronic companies in the world. So I grew up pretty sheltered and given whatever I wanted. My parents never asked for anything in return, they didn't give much parental love but they did their job as parents and I was happy with that. So when my parents asked me to take over the company and to become the heir I felt like I had an obligation to say yes. They never asked for anything of me before so it only felt right giving in to their one demand, right?”

“Kind of feels like you're trauma dumping…” I said before nodding at his explanation.

“What? No. What?” I only shrugged.

“Anyways, high school was where I got involved in a dangerous gang called the Fatui. After that, I got into a lot of fights and just a bunch of bad stuff in general. The gang has been disbanded but I still hang out with some of the old members. Anyways ever since that my parents have kind of lost faith in me and keep track of everything to do with me. It's not too suffocating because as long as I don't do anything that would harm the company's image, they don’t care. But do you remember at the New Year's party when we kissed? My friend had taken a picture and posted it on Twitter. My parents saw that and thought that you were my girlfriend and asked to arrange a meeting dinner to see if you’re good enough to date me.”

“I don't get why that means I have to go on a date with you…”

“Because I can’t let them know that I'm going around kissing random girls.”

“But you are.”

“That’s no- oh! They're here.”

“What-? Who’s here?”

“My family.”

“What?! Childe! I’m not going to-” He cut you off as he gave you a stack of cash.

“This is 10k in cash…” He said whispering.

“...” You slowly grabbed the cash quickly counting it before stuffing it in your purse. You turned to him with the biggest smile on your face.

“Shall we go get your family, my love?” His eyes widened in shock before he composed himself and grinned.

“After you, darling. Also, my real name is Ajax.” I nodded

“Mom, Dad! Over here!”

"Ajax." His dad acknowledged before sitting down.

"Dad, Mom. I'd like you to meet my girlfriend, [Name]."

"It’s a pleasure to finally meet you."

“Likewise.” Childe’s mom said smiling.

“What are your intentions?” Childe’s dad said cutting to the chase.

“Dad!”

“Honey!”

“It’s fine.” You said patting Childe’s thigh. “I’m not sure what you mean by that?”

“Why are you with my son?”

“Because I love him…?”

“Do you love him or his money?”

“...” You looked at him flabbergasted that he could say something like that to someone he just met.

“I see… I think we're done here-”

“Wow.” You said before scoffing.

“What…?”

“Are you here to meet your son’s girlfriend or criticize her? Chil- Ajax has a lot more than money.”

“Like what?” Childe’s eyes flash with hurt.

“He has good looks, good grades, and even a good girlfriend.”

“Pft-” The tense atmosphere was interrupted by Childe’s kid-like laughter. “Well said, my dear. Mom, Dad. I didn't invite you here so you could test her. I invited you here to introduce her as my girlfriend and nothing can change that.”

“...I see you’ve made your choice. I don’t see any more reason to be here then.” He said before getting up and leaving as the mother followed.

It wasn't until after they left it hit you. Childe just announced you his girlfriend in front of his parents… You whipped your head toward Childe.

“Why would you say that?!”

“Say what?”

“That I was your girlfriend?!”

“You are…?”

“I’m your “fake” girlfriend!”

“You took the money…”

“Yeah, to act like your fake girlfriend in front of your parents…”

“The moment you took the cash was the moment you decided to be my fake girlfriend for a couple of weeks, at least.”

“...ah fuck…” You mumbled.

Hating you??

masterlist -- prev | next

childe might be falling ;)

[name] said everything on impulse

Synopsis -- In which a girl who had been played by Cupid refuses to be fooled around with anymore. That was until the love devil in one last ditch attempt sent you the school’s rich playboy. Caught in a string of lies, rumors, and fame you end up fake-dating but what happens when you realize he’s not who you originally thought…? Author's notes -- I'm losing too much motivation... Taglist is open -- @hanilessa @duckyyyx @boywxonder @ynverse @ahnneyong @wonderland-fan @yelleloww @wisteriaa-heree @sukunasrealgf @yuminako

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puffmais · 1 year ago

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I Feel You Linger In The Air (Rant)

I really needed to make this because I've finally discovered why so many bls fans (not everyone) keep ignoring this story in particular, which, in my opinion, holds the place for #1 bl of the year.

People are really not ready to watch great acting, great plot, great cinematography, great ost, great everything. You really have a period bl drama right in front of your eyes, but apparently one of the main excuses is that the relationship "goes really slow", and some people on Twitter and Reddit even said that Jom never shows his feelings just like in the novel, and that is always Khun Yai the one who gives affection. Let's go for the first one: first of all, are we watching the same show? Because we, as an audience, are fully aware that Jom was cheated on by his boyfriend in the present time, then he travels to the past and encounters this man (whom he has previously seen) and of course, he's shocked (both of them are since Khun Yai dreamed about Jom). You just can't expect a relationship to happen in the very first episode, that's not realistic, that never happens. This actually reminded me when Step By Step was airing and everyone kept complaining that "nothing" happened between the two mains, and the plot was slow, and people just stopped watching it. You really need to understand how relationships work: it takes time, and we need to follow the development, we need to feel those moments between the characters. The problem here is those really cringy, bad bl series with zero plot, terrible acting, and obviously having explicit s*x scenes in every episode, that made people forget about enjoying a great story and just consume any garbage content just for the sake of it, and I'm not going to make a list about those bad bls or those terrible actors because you all know who they are. The second one, do you really think Jom never showed his feelings towards Khun Yai? Once again, this is a character that has just been cheated on and got his heart broken by his long-time boyfriend. And let's not forget that this is an adaptation from a novel (yes, I read it), and every time a written work gets adapted into a series (or film) there are always going to be changes and situations in which all the production team has to work to make it as close as possible to the novel, but not the same in its entirety. Someone on Reddit said that they were happy because even though some scenes were changed from the novel, the dialogues were all the exact same and they were faithful in that sense, and I completely agree. Now, if you are saying that Jom doesn't show any emotion, you are coming for Nonkul's acting and I won't tolerate that. This drama has cast two of the best Thai actors in the industry. Both actors even said that they read the novel, and did plenty of research and preparation for their characters. So, no... you are not going to come for these two boys, because they are the best you will ever see.

And now, let's see some examples in which we can see Jom (slowly) growing feelings for Khun Yai: This already happens in EP2. Khun Yai looking so worried, asks Jom if he's feeling unwell and touches him so gently. Just look at Jom's face... I bet his heart made a jump because I know my heart would stop at that moment.

And what about the very next moment? Khun Yai: "It's like you've lost your blessing. Please, let me bring it back for you." (The softness in his voice...)

And Jom looks dazzled the whole time because he has this gorgeous gentleman talking to him like this, caring for him... Anyways, let's go to EP3. The scene in which Khun Yai tells Jom that he's buying clothes for him and Jom is surprised by this. And then, Khun Yai goes: "Do you like it?" (referring to the shirt)

And I bet Jom's brain was like: "Are we talking about the shirt... or you?". He just stares at Khun Yai like he's hypnotized (like more than 5 seconds, I'm not kidding). And what about this whole scene? Khun Yai: "If remembering makes you sad, just forget about it completely."

Here we have Khun Yai once again talking in his ever-soft voice (Bright's voice is just beautiful) and comforting Jom, knowing that he's suffering and having hard times, and Jom just takes and absorbs all this care and affection coming from the other.

When they come back, Jom thanks Khun Yai, he's grateful for everything, you can see it in his smile, and his eyes, and he exudes gratefulness. And then we see him looking at the bracelet that Khun Yai gave to him, and thinking about him... like come on, at this point we all know that Khun Yai is blooming in Jom's heart.

Right, let's jump to EP4. Jom becomes Khun Yai's majordomo and we have the scene in which Khun Yai shows Jom his new room. Khun Yai: "So now we're living under the same roof, Jom."

Look at him! He looks nervous and shy, taking in the fact that he's going to live with his crush and be with him 24/7, like imagine being as lucky as Jom... the boy is internally screaming.

The next scene, when Khun Yai is helping Jom with the typewriter, and Jom makes a mistake.

Khun Yai stops him by touching him and Jom's brain just stops working. My boy is gone, he just stares and stares.

And then, we have the scene in which Jom is helping dress Khun Yai. Jom: "So, why did you have to help me that much?" Khun Yai: "As I said earlier, I just want to choose what I want, and go by my wish sometimes."

LOOK AT HIM! HE'S GONE! WE LOST HIM! And besides he understands what Khun Yai is trying to say, Jom is no fool.

Khun Yai leaves and we see Jom like this: he's touching his face (an indicator that his face is probably burning) and he's internally screaming, please at this point we can feel Jom's sincere feelings.

Let's go to EP5. In the beginning scene, Jom sees things from the present time, and he starts screaming. Khun Yai makes his appearance, he's worried and he knows Jom is having a hard time once again. I want to emphasize how Khun Yai is in a drunk state in this scene, but that doesn't stop him from being the same gentleman, and comfort Jom in every possible way.

Khun Yai: "Jom, you're here with me. Just think of this as another home." (I screamed)

The entire scene is chef's kiss. Khun Yai's soft and caring voice, massaging Jom's forehead in an attempt to make Jom feel better and get rid of any negative feelings and thoughts. Caressing his face and then hugging him ever so softly, patting his head, every single gesture is just perfection, so full of affection. The silence in the scene, no need of dialogues, just them loving each other, and Jom being completely gone. He's completely aware that he likes Khun Yai.

Okay, EP6. We have a (very) jealous Khun Yai avoiding Jom and treating him kind of indifferently. In this scene, Jom looks hurt and worried that Khun Yai may be angry at him, and he basically makes Khun Yai explode.

Khun Yai: "Don't you know how I feel about you? Did my actions not reach your heart at all? Or should I write you a long poem? Or in what way should I tell you so that you can understand how I feel about you?".

Imagine your crush advancing to you like this... saying all those words... Jom was speechless, breathless.

Moving forward, Khun Yai finally directly confesses to Jom and asks him if he wants to be with him, and Jom agrees. I loved how Jom didn't reject him but explained to him that he was scared and worried about them becoming lovers and making Khun Yai's life difficult because of his family and society in general. Let's not forget that Jom comes from the present time in which until today LGBTQ people are still chased and k*lled, rejected, and seen as abnormal (I personally felt his speech because I'm bisexual and I know it's hard). And Thailand is still a conservative country in which gay marriage is not allowed, so like I said before: Jom is no fool and he's aware of the whole situation. But... love is stronger and our boys become a couple, and if after all this people still think that Jom has zero emotions or doesn't express himself... just go watch your empty bls in which the characters "fall in love" in the first five minutes like the most unrealistic thing ever.

I want to say that Khun Yai is the greenest flag ever, and Bright & Nonkul's chemistry is out of this world. I hope they work together again in the future because they are the perfect duo. Anyways, to all IFYLITA fans keep spreading the love and enjoying the best bl of the year, we can't wait to see these boys taking all the awards.

#หอมกลิ่นความรัก #i feel you linger in the air #khun yai #jom #bright rapheephong #nonkul chanon #brightnonkul #thai bl #bl drama #myedits #aboutme #personal

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thelonesomequeen · 3 months ago

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hi I wasn’t here around the jenny slate era but since that movie with Blake was released users of tik tok are bringing up what she used to tweet, her insensitive jokes and something about a podcast and hitting Chris? If you don’t mind explaining to me

Honestly, I’m kind of surprised she was never called out sooner for her poor behavior. I do hope that she has changed for the better, but she hasn’t done anything that proves she has (in my opinion) because she mostly stays quiet now and she deleted her twitter which had most of the receipts of her crappy comments anyway. The best thing she could have done for her own public image was step away from word vomiting all over social media.

A lot of Evans fans get slack for hating on Jenny simply because she dated Chris and that isn’t true at all. A lot of fans were initially happy for him until they discovered that the relationship started off with what looked like an affair and that Jenny was/is a person of questionable character. People had reasons for disliking her and I’ll post actual receipts of her tweets below.

When it comes to the hitting during the podcast, yes it is true she was slapping at him and punching at him, but I will say that a lot of people have characterized this as a form of physical abuse and I’m not sure I’m comfortable going that far with it. I think it was in more of an obnoxious attention getting type of contact versus her actually aiming to harm him or physically dominate him in any way. But that’s just my opinion. With that said, I’ll also say that I don’t love the whole “play hitting” thing myself, it’s kind of weird to force contact on someone else like that, but I do think she was unfairly demonized in this instance. And what’s weird is that commentary came long after they broke up. I don’t remember anyone being alarmed by her contact with him during the podcast when it initially came out. Mostly because people were very focused on what both of them were saying and how they were interacting with each other.

With that said, I believe the podcast is still on YouTube and I would encourage you to listen to it for yourself and make your own judgement there.

Now, as for her making shitty comments that were transphobic and fat phobic in the past? Well I’ll leave some receipts for you and again, let you judge for yourself. What I will say is that these are only a SMALL sampling of her posts and that more are out there, but you get the idea. It also took forever to find just these, and I’m sure you’ll get the point either way. And before someone comes back and says “…but but but! Some of the tweets are from as far back as 2010! That’s 14 years ago!” I’ll say you’re correct. Some are on the older side. But keep in mind that Jenny would have been 28 at the time of those tweets. Older than Alba is now for those keeping score. These tweets were also posted by Jenny HERSELF as a full grown adult, and not her friends back in their teen days.

Just as a final note, please do not go on after reading these and use them as an excuse to harass anyone. The point of this post is to provide context to newer fans who do not understand why older fans disliked Jenny and it is not meant to rehash old drama or cause problems for her in the present.

Examples of homophobic and transphobic language:

Examples of fat shaming:

Example of ableism:

Perpetuating rape culture/sexual assault :

Other weird shit:

And we can’t forget a classic example of how she would bait and troll the fandom (this one had everyone thinking she was pregnant):

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jintheastronaut · 2 months ago

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since i like to consider myself a music enthusiast here are a few music releases that i have been listening to, some are albums and some are singles and with albums i’ll tell you my favorite/s from said album so let’s begin:

first and foremost when it comes to kehlani they never fail, their music always hits and i’m so excited to finally meet them next month on the 27th !!!!

my favorites from this project are:

- love like

- know better

- border

- let me down (san diego interlude)

- slow dance (feat DIXSON)

next we have:

at first i didn’t really like this album other than 2 songs and the singles because i was comparing this to her previous album (emails i can’t send) which was a bad idea but nonetheless the album has since grown on me and i vibe with it so my favorites are:

- taste

- please please please

- good graces

- bed chem

- espresso

- slim pickins

- juno (my favorite off the album)

next we have:

now i love me some big sean, i’ve been a fan of this man for years so i was excited for him to drop a new album but out of the 21 songs on this album i only liked 9 which is like half but i still expected to like more songs but it’s still a good album i like it, my favorites are:

- iconic

- typecast

- break the cycle (feat charlie wilson)

- who you are (superstar)

- yes

- it is what it is (feat gunna)

- on up

- this and that

- my life / happiness (skit) (feat ellie goulding)

up next we have:

when it comes to muni long i’ve never really paid attention to a full album of hers other than singles but she’s got a few really good songs so i took the chance to listen to her new album in its entirety and she really did it with this one ! my favorites are

- superpowers

- made for me

- make me forget

- revenge

- played yourself

- leave my baby (feat glorilla)

- the baddest

- waste no time

- ruined me

and the last album we have before we move on to singles is:

with doechii i never really paid much attention to her other than the song she had with JT from the city girls but i saw her trending on twitter so i was like ok let me give her a try and she did not disappoint, i like her vibe, her flow and her delivery so here are my favorites

- stanka pooh

- bullfrog

- boiled peanuts

- denial is a river

- catfish

- skipp

- wait

- nissan altima

- slide

- beverly hills

and now onto the singles (it’s only one single but anyway) we have:

ms halle bailey !!!! now when it comes to halle she never FAILS, with angel, in your hands and now because i love you ? she knows she’s that girl and i just love her voice period along with her sister chlöe they both slay so !!

and that’s it for today, i honestly want to make this a series even though no one will care but a series so that i can maybe introduce new music to the people who follow me or to the people who find these posts through the hashtags i’ll put for this post or just to reach the people who also like/love the singles or albums i’ll be listing/reviewing ? and just overall show music i like or have been listening to so i don’t know how consistent i’ll be with this because i’d like to do this every friday (because that’s the day new music drops 😁) (and i know that today is saturday, at least where i’m at so hush) but some fridays i might not find anything i liked so i’m not sure but for now let’s call this series “moon’s music fridays” hope you enjoy !!

#moon’s music fridays #kehlani #while we wait 2 #short n sweet #sabrina carpenter #better me than you #big sean #revenge #muni long #alligator bites never heal #doechii #because i love you #halle bailey

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xandraspalace · 2 years ago

Text

Star River Descending

----- Star River Descending || Rez Zotto [NIJISANJI EN] Birthday Fiction

Summary : In the dark outer space, there is a spill of stars that forms a flowing river in the sky. This silvery stream of stars will look more radiant and beautiful on the alien prince's birthday. But this year was different, for among this stream of countless shining stars, two stars could finally align.

WC : 2620 Words.

Warning : Grammar errors, teeth-rotting fluff (possible cringes), alien! reader, aide! reader, hints of lore, MLQC references, WMMAP references, etc.

Featured Characters : ILUNA members.

Disclaimer : Everything written here is FICTITIOUS. This story is written in second-person point of view and the reader is gender-neutral. The personas written here are based on the avatar of the characters as vtubers, not the person behind it. Enjoy.

A/N : I keep questioning myself, can I write my birthday fictions on time? This is the fastest I can post. Anyway, happy birthday Ren! Please eat some cakes!

Other Platforms : [MEDIUM] [TWITTER]

"I heard there’s a new student in Kyo's and Mari's class." The Celestial One started the topic of gossip as soon as he entered Ren and Scarle's class with Aia.

As soon as the lunch break bell rang, the Moon Gang always gathered at the one place they agreed upon beforehand. That day, everyone agreed to gather in Ren and Scarle's class. Aster immediately turned around a chair and sat himself facing Ren while Aia stood beside him.

"Really?" Aia seemed to think, trying to remember where she heard that rumor before. “Hold on. Are they the alien-kind walking with the principal this morning?”

"Yeah, they’re the one. We saw them passing by our class with the principal today, right?” Aster confirmed Aia's statement.

Scarla who had just finished talking with her classmates also joined in the conversation. “Ah, yes. I heard about them too,” she chuckled.

As Aster, Aia, and Scarle discussed the new student, confusion was painted on Ren's face. He sat in front of Aster in silence, trying to work his brain. “What? New student? How come I'm just hearing this now?? And they’re an alien?" Ren asked in confusion.

"You don't know, Ren?" Aster was also confused. "I thought you'd know, since they’re an alien."

"No, this is a news to me."

“Ren might know them,” Scarle leaned against the frame of the window. "But for now, he might had no idea about who they are. I'll ask Kyo to bring them to us.” The enchantress distanced herself a bit from the others. She couldn't take the risk if her magic to hit her friends. She raised her staff and practiced magic to send a telepathic message to Kyo.

From the very beginning, Ren had indeed felt something strange. He had a hunch, but he still doubted it. There's no way an ordinary alien could do space-traveling. If so, what was their purpose? Were they targeting Ren? If they were indeed targeting Ren, where did this alien get information about Ren's whereabouts. Ren himself told very few people about his departure when he left his home planet.

However, something suddenly clicked inside of him, taking him by surprise. “Don’t tell me…” he mumbled. Not wanting to think about it, Ren faced the Celestial One. “Aster, you seriously can't identify her life essence? You're literally the one and only celestial being here."

"Nope, I can't. I'm sorry." Aster rejected the frustrated Ren without hesitation. “This alien really has the ability to disguise their life essence.”

Ren fell silent. Aster's statement made his doubts begin to fade. Now he was more and more sure about who this alien student is. “Disguise their life essence, huh?”

“What, you have any idea who this person is?” Aster asked the alien prince.

Meanwhile, Ren was just massaging his temples because of the sudden migraine he felt from too much thinking. "Just tell Kyo and Mari to bring them here first."

“My liege…”

Shortly after you said it, one of the friends you know from your class today, namely Kyo, suddenly bursted out laughing—again. You could see Kyo already hugging his aching stomach from laughing too much. Hearing that uncontrollable laugh, Ren glared at Kyo.

As soon as you arrived at the doorway of Ren and Scarle's class, you immediately froze. Your heart beat so fast, seeing the figure you've been longing for. Of course, the whole sentence suddenly trapped in your throat. The only thing you could say was the honorific you used to address him.

“Just Ren will do here, [Y/N],” the alien prince sighed. “We’re not on our home planet. In this institute, I'm just one among many students. I'm not a prince here, and you're not my aide either."

Those words certainly surprised you. You never once dreamed of calling him by his own name. “H-huh? Celestial Ones forbid!” You waved your hands in front of you, shook your head in denial.

"Who says?"

“Wha—?!” You turned to the bicolor-eyed man only to felt he was pressuring you with an extremely heavy aura. The man named Aster resonated his celestial power to you. It felt like a mountain crushing on you. Your body shook violently and your breathed heavily. You could only freeze in fear.

“Aster, quit it. You scared them.” With a serious tone, Ren asked Aster to release his celestial power resonance from you.

Aster could only laughed lightly, "Haha, my bad."

You immediately crumpled the light-colored uniform you were wearing and took a deep breath to fill your lungs with air. If you were not trained enough for that sort of thing, you've already fallen to the floor. Luckily, your legs were still strong enough to support your body. Moreover, Maria was also by your side and hugged your hand as Aster was pressuring his power on you. The sweet living doll asked if you were okay, making sure you weren’t hurt.

“But Ren is right,” Aster continued, a sweet smile touching his lips. Seeing his smile, you suddenly forgot about that terrifying celestial being that just had you rooted to the spot. "We're equal here. Just be at ease and casual with each other.”

"Come on, [Y/N], try it." Kyo pushed you lightly. "Or I'll laugh every time I heard you addressing him with as 'my liege.'"

You were silent for a moment, hesitant to address Ren without his honorific. But when your eyes made contact with his blue ones, you found him nodding at you and smiling, reassuring you that he has allowed it and that you may call him by his name. “R-Ren…” And you ended up stuttering.

Ren smiled proudly at you again. He nodded, satisfied with the way you addressed him. "Yeah, [Y/N]?" Ren answered, slightly teasing you.

You shook your head a little too quickly. “That feels so wrong,” you honestly murmured.

"You have to get used to it."

"I understand."

For some times, you spent your lunch break with the others in that third year’s classroom. You met and chatted with others, with the people who have accompanied Ren on this foreign planet for a quite long time.

Since you've become acquainted with Kyo and Maria, those two have been the ones to introduce you to the others. Scarle was giving you a big sister vibe while Aia was so fun to hang out with. Meanwhile, realizing the effect of what he did earlier, Aster approached you slowly so you wouldn't be scared of him and make you uncomfortable. What he did earlier really scared you. No one in outer space dared to oppose a being with celestial powers like Aster.

"So you're Ren's aide?" Aia asked, bringing a new topic for the group.

And you could only nod. “Yes, I am.”

"Wow, I can't believe an idiot like him has such an important person by his side."

“Bro, that's the reason why I laughed when they called him, 'my liege.'” Kyo pulled a chair to sit next to Aia.

You laughed lightly, "That's because he's the important one here."

Ren, who had been watching from behind, approached the circle of conversation. He stood behind you and put his hand on your shoulder, making you look up at him. "Now the real question. What are you doing here? Why are you here?" Ren interrogated you a bit. “I assume there is something urgent if you come all the way here. Did something happen after I left?”

Seeing Ren's worried face, you immediately felt guilty for coming suddenly and not explaining the reason for your visit. “Ah, no. It's important, yes, but it's not urgent, so don't worry," you explained.

"So...everything is fine?"

You nodded.

Ren sighed in relief, "Thank goodness."

"What if they just missed you, Ren?" Scarle suddenly blurted out an unexpected question, making you and Ren choke on you guys’ own saliva. Heat started to creep to your cheeks, blushing. “You're so insensitive,” the 3rd year girl laughed.

Ren made your blushes worse by asking, “Oh, were you?”

You didn’t know how to react. You were flustered. You turned your gaze to Scarle and shot her a glare.

You swallowed your saliva, daring yourself to voice a request to Ren. "Can we talk about this in a more private place, just the two of us?"

Ignoring the cheers on the background, Ren smiled and replied, "Sure."

The sound of birds chirping sounded melodious along with the sounds of tree leaves against each other, giving you comfort. You and Ren took a walk in Institute of the Mystic’s garden. In your hands, you carried a paper bag that you have brought with you. Previously, you asked Ren to let you go back to your class first to pick something up on the way to the garden.

Because it was quite a hot day, you and Ren decided to stop at a gazebo in the garden to take shelter from the scorching sunlight. Ren leaned against the fence of the gazebo. "Now, we're alone."

You stood in front of him, both hands still holding the paper bag.

“What are you doing here all of a sudden? Did you really miss me like what Scarle said?” he asked, lowkey interrogating you.

“O-one of the reasons is that, yes,” you stuttered, shades of pinks reappearing.

But apparently, Ren was much more surprised than you. “Oh,” he shortly responded.

You didn't expect to get a short response like that. You looked up to see him. "What's wrong?" you asked innocently.

“N-nothing…” Now, it was his turn to blush. He raised his hand to cover half of his face. "And the other reasons?" he asked, still hiding his blush.

You didn't buy it and took a step closer to him. "My liege, are you sure you're okay? Your face is red.”

"I told you, it's nothing." Ren slightly raised his voice. "Moreover, why are you answering my question with another question?"

"Ah, I'm sorry." Not wanting to angering him more, you stepped back. "I deeply apologize, Prince."

"It's fine," Ren sighed, managing to regain his composure. "And stop calling me with my honorifics, will you?"

Realizing your mistake, you nodded. "Alright Ren."

"That's more like it. Now, back to the question again, why are you here?”

Before you answered, you were silent for a moment. "It's... almost your birthday, so the Star River must be so much more beautiful than usual," you answered his question with the truth. You lifted your gaze to his eyes and confirmed, "That's the real reason why I'm here."

Ren fell silent for a moment. Surprised, confused, touched, and many other feelings mixed together. "What...?”

“I scoped a bit of the stars streams and put it in a clear jar. I intended to gift this to you.” You lifted the paper bag you had been carrying and handed it to him. “I think it would be a shame if you missed this year’s Star River scene. I don't want our annual ritual of watching the Star River on your birthday to suddenly be cut off.”

The alien boy was speechless. You, taking some streams of stars from the Star River and put in a jar, just so he can witness it this year too? You're crazy, was what Ren thought. However, he still accepted the paper bag that you previously handed him.

Ren opened the paper bag and took out its contents. He held up a jar filled with twinkling silver stars. Despite the fact that there weren't many of them and the light of day still illumined the world, the radiance in the jar gave off a light so bright that Ren had to slightly squint his eyes.

The jar filled with stars streams was like a mini version of the real treacherous river spilling on the dark outer space. Ren was stunned as if he fell in love for the first time again, no matter how many times he saw it … Just like when he was with you.

“Wow…” was the only word he could utter, blue eyes still on the shining stars inside the jar.

Without realizing it, tears started welling up and falling down his cheeks. You were surprised. “Ren!” You took a step to him, wanting to make sure he wasn't hurt by the sudden burning or electrocution of the stars inside the jar.

How long had he been away from his home planet that he had almost forgotten the beautiful scenery of the Star River, a view that no other planet or galaxy had. Longing suddenly washed over his heart and mind, making him cry without he realizing it.

“Ah, I'm sorry…” Ren mumbled, hastily wiped his tears. "I-I bet this will look prettier in the dark." Ren who tried to divert the topic failed because he couldn't stop his cries. "Hells, why am I like this?"

You who then understood his feelings smiled softly. The figure of the so-called deadly, cold-hearted Alien Prince who is feared by many entities on the vast never-ending space was now crying in front of you, lowering his guard recklessly.

“Oh, Ren…” you cooed, taking a step forward to him. You helped him wipe the tears as you could only smile, hearing him sob. “It's been a while since the last time I saw my beloved prince cry. This humble aide of yours forget. Was it when you were a child and fell into the Mist Pools on the Western Star?”

“Shut up,” he cracked, trying to stop you from snitching on him.

That was another story. Something suddenly caught your attention when you wiped Ren's tears. “So pretty…” you mumbled to yourself, but Ren could still hear you. You stared deep into his teary diamond orbs. You gently stroked his cheeks, while Ren cupped one of your hands. "I can see the Star River reflected in your eyes when you're crying."

“Now I know the reason why you were born when Star River was at its brightest,” you continued. "You and river resonate with each other."

“[Y/N], next year…” Ren's grip on your hand suddenly tightened, but it didn't hurt you, instead it felt comforting. "Next year, let's watch the Star River again together, just the two of us, on my birthday. I won't miss it again.”

You nodded and smiled softly at him. "Of course, we will definitely do that. But for now, I want to enjoy your birthday here with you, Ren, with the people you met on this very earth.”

Ren pulled you into his arms. “Thank you … Thank you so much,” he whispered to your ear shakily. "You gave me the most beautiful gift I could ever ask."

In his arms, you muttered, "I should be the one who thank you, my liege," you once again called him with his honorific. “Thank you for being as you are. Happy birthday.”

The lights of the stars in the jar you gave Ren radiate so far it could be seen from Ren's and Scarle's class where the others were still there. Unbeknownst to the two aliens, Aster leaned against and gazed out the window, watching them seriously.

He witnessed everything, from the first time you and Ren stepped your foot into the institute’s garden to the moment Ren pulled you into his arms. “Interesting. Ren can cry too apparently," he chuckled.

“Aster…?” Scarle asked, noticing Aster's gaze out the window. "What's wrong?"

As a celestial being who had lived for a million of years, he had witnessed countless stars collide. Some must collide and even destroy each other. However, there are some who manage to align perfectly and unite.

Aster smirked, but his gaze was very gentle. “Nothing,” he answered Scarle's question. “And the stars do align. Finally.” -----[FIN].

Star River Descending Fiction by Author Xandra March, 2023

#xandraspalace_arc #xandraspalace #nijisanji #nijisanji x reader #nijisanji en #nijisanji en x reader #ren zotto #ren zotto x reader #iluna #iluna x reader

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theoldlesbianwithcats · 7 months ago

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you are so real for that response to nansheofearth's comment. lesbians are stuck licking crumbs off the boots of bihet feminist women or queer/trans identified people.

ive been to polilez/radfem events too, and hearing them talk is as alienating as being a homosexual women in queer spaces. sorry i dont want to listen to women talk about how boring their husbands became, or the 4 kids they had with a man before they "became lesbians". it is so alienating as a lesbian, you feel like you truly are a freak of nature, when even other "lesbians" can talk so casually about sleeping with men, so what's wrong with you that your whole being seizes with disgust and wrongness at the thought. or maybe there really is no one like you in the world.

it sucks that even other lesbians make allowances for radical feminist homophobia. our self esteem is so grounded into the dust that we think we need to put up with this homophobia for the "greater good".

your blog has become the go-to for lesbians haha, i check it regularly even if i don't otherwise check tumblr, so i'm throwing in my few cents into the discussion.

Hi anon!

(Anon is referring to that post.)

Thank youuuu, your last paragraph made me so happy 🥹 I'm glad my blog can be a positive lesbian space! Now I'm thinking I should post more beautiful women and gifs from lesbian movies hehe

I totally understand what you mean, that's pretty much how I felt when I went to that lesbian festival (tbh I knew something was wrong when the woman who handed me a flyer at the entrance had super long glittery stiletto nails, I almost left then and there 🤣)

To summarize the first edition of that lesbian festival last year:

First there was a panel on lesbian representation in the media that was derailed to trans males within ten minutes (and even complained about trans criminals being misgendered!), the second panel about intersectionality of lesbians of color had zero lesbian in it, only bi women and trans males

Then there was a lesbian comedy show with two fakebians talking about their ex-boyfriends and making jokes about lesbians' supposed obsession with astrology + a non-binary bi woman who claimed that her gender identity made all her relationships gay (she called herself a dyke and a faggot)

There was a sex-ed booth held by an influencer who had DYKE (yes, in all caps) in her Twitter bio while talking about her het hookups (and throwing a real tantrum when people told her it didn't make sense), she also made sex ed videos on our national tv channel's website where she said that lesbians have sex with men and that men can be lesbians. She has since removed dyke from her bio.

A lesbian bookstore had a booth too, the original owners retired and the new ones are polilez queers who keep promoting books about lesbianism being a choice... Half of the books at that booth were about trans people.

Needless to say, I wouldn't even inflict that on a lesbian I dislike as a prank!

What you said about "lesbians" talking casually about having had sex with men reminds me of a French podcast I listened to years ago that was about bisexual and "lesbian" women who were with men before realizing they were attracted to women. The first conclusion I had was that I couldn't relate at all and felt very uneasy about it. I didn't even dare write my second conclusion back then but it was basically this:

I couldn't differentiate their stories at all. And deep down, they must know this because fakebians use their experiences with men as a way of relating with bi and het women while being mostly hostile to gold stars and finding us unrelatable!

Anyway, this is really long already haha Question for the gold stars: what would be your dream lesbian event? 💃 (apart from being only for actual lesbians, of course!)

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kharmii · 5 months ago

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It is so true that the entire fandom has a massive obsession with furries.

And are also converting normies into furries. Sometimes when I see fanart of Sneasler and it’s drawn in a furry-ish way a big part of me wonders if this artist has a sideblog containing furry nsfw with Ingo.

Or those weird hybrid designs. (When I‘m able to look past the furry implications I can appreciate a creative design but I also can’t unsee potential nsfw stuff for a lot of these.) What icks me the most about this is that furry stuff is accepted and even embraced as to blankshipping is taboo and "the worst"…

Personally I’m rather someone who wishes to engage a lot more with the Japanese community since they are still very much have the old fandom culture intact.

(Also when I‘m leaning more towards blankshipper over here it’s because they’re less to throw hissy fits at everyone who doesn’t bend over backwards to their beliefs. They can be just as nasty on some topics)

And so much yes for your annoyance for the celebration of politics in fandom. I don’t know when this has become such an issue (especially when I remember that back in the day in a previous fandom called Hetalia [a series that was based on the idea that each country was represented by a human and being a bit stereotypical (in a way that was funny or made you feel called out)] people were constantly reminding everyone not to include current day politics in their stuff, that was no biggie back when but nowadays it’s normal to use fandom and fiction to push their political agenda on people… Be it characters waving certain flags of countries or beliefs and all those surgery scars everywhere… I don’t wanna see this kind of content. Though I’m at least somewhat happy that so far I didn’t have to see artificial "assets" down below in art.

The only way to interact with the fandom is to mute and block each political movement and only interact with certain content that doesn’t deal with all this nonsense.

I have said it before but I really enjoy sharing opinions with you. While a lot comes off as probably harsher than it’s meant to but I appreciate your opinion and your perspective.

That was absolutely meant to come off harsh because Submas fandom (Volo too) is a nasty little mean girl clique gone wild. That's how social contagion works. You'll have a handful of aggressive vocal petty little twats who will convince everybody that 'this stupid thing is acceptable and yet this other stupid thing that's equally as stupid and harmless as the other thing is not acceptable'.

Next thing you know, the few bad apples who draw top surgery scarred fat furries have the whole fandom thinking that's what everybody is into. Normies might be like, "Well, I actually don't like any of that because it forces me to have a wastebasket I puke in when browsing this fandom, but I don't want anyone to call me a bigot.."

Most fans might be drawn to beauty and good things, but the whole theme seems to be centered around dreck and wallowing in misery (the shipping end anyway. General is more upbeat). Since everybody has blocked me at this point, I'm one of the few who isn't afraid to say what a lot of people might be thinking (like most of you, don't lie. Nobody likes a fat furry chili fart in the face).

Side note: I had to unfollow someone last week because they put up a post about Submas celebrating Pride Month...and yet they had to put the dig in about 'Proshippers DNI'. Hey, Emmet's pronouns list is a mile long! -So what aspect of Pride do they celebrate? Is it okay for weirdos to wear dog masks around kids? Is it okay to give minors puberty blockers? -And yet shipping brother-on-brother action with fictional characters (that doesn't hurt anybody) is taboo? Would you be okay with a grown-ass man exposing himself to a minor at a Pride Parade, and yet a 20/15 year old ship between Volo and Akari is taboo?

Anyway, how about some good old Submas Angst?

Art credit: こんぶ。@konbu_0915_ Twitter.

#submas #blankshipping #pride month #fandumb fail #srsly tho #leftist culture #damn furries #at least it's not omegaverse #ask me about my million stupid bj aus #ingo #emmet #submas angst

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shiningwonderland · 1 year ago

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Ranmaru Kurosaki (All Star)

Translator: Raine (Twitter: amagiyas)

Proofreader: Shu (Twitter: coldcagelord)

Editors: Snail (Twitter: herbert_snail), Lacey (Twitter: fairyharp), Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

Chapter Four — Peaceful Days

Ren Jinguji: Happy New Year, Lady. You look great! Simply beautiful.

Masato Hijirikawa: I hope to receive your support this year as well.

In addition, you look just like a traditional Japanese doll.

The two of them smile cheerfully.

Meanwhile….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … Why're you here too? And what's with that getup?

Kurosaki-senpai looks me up and down.

Haruka Nanami: Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san invited me.

Since I was at my parents' house, I thought I would come dressed in a kimono.

Today, Kurosaki-senpai and the other two will be starting work on a special New Year's live broadcast for a variety show.

Jinguji-san contacted me just before recording began.

In his message, he invited me to attend the first shrine visit of the year with him once recording was finished.

He also said he would bring Kurosaki-senpai along.

We decided to meet at a quiet shrine near the office.

The general public rarely visits this shrine, so even idols can take their time when they visit.

Haruka Nanami: Happy New Year. Please continue looking after me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Y-yeah… same here….

We awkwardly exchange greetings and bow to each other.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Exchanging greetings and all is fine, but… what'd ya come all this way for?

Haruka Nanami: For the first shrine visit of the new year. What else?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hah? Shrine visit?

Haruka Nanami: I came after receiving an invite from Jinguji-san, unless… you came all the way without knowing…?

Kurosaki-senpai glares at the other two.

Is it possible that….

Haruka Nanami: Um… did the two of you explain to Kurosaki-senpai?

Jinguji-san beams and shakes his head while Hijirikawa-san averts his eyes.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, you two. What's goin' on?

Didn't you say we were just gonna stop by the office on our way back?

Ren Jinguji: Let's go, Ran-chan.

If you're with a cute girl like the lady here, the gods will surely be pleased and grant you your wish.

As if nothing had happened, Jinguji-san takes hold of one of Kurosaki-senpai's arms.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What're you up to, hey! Making wishes to the gods? How stupid.

I don't believe in that sorta stuff!

Masato Hijirikawa: Kurosaki-san, please don't shout something like that in front of a shrine.

It's asking for divine punishment from above….

Hijirikawa-san takes hold of his other arm.

Given the situation, I have no choice but to follow along.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What the… lemme go!

Jinguji-san and Hijirikawa-san haul Kurosaki-senpai onto the shrine grounds by his arms.

What is this? It's like watching a child visiting the shrine on his third birthday….

Masato Hijirikawa: Here we go!

Kurosaki-san! Please walk properly!

The two of them drag Kurosaki-senpai into the shrine, leaving behind tracks in the gravel.

If the words "shrine visit" were mentioned from the start, Kurosaki-senpai probably wouldn't want to go.

That was the consensus between Jinguji-san and Hirijikawa-san.

Considering his reaction just now, I can understand their reasoning.

However, I'm participating in the Song Festival with Kurosaki-senpai this year, so it seems they took that into consideration.

Anyway, we manage to reach the inner sanctuary of the shrine where we will make our wishes.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hold up, you two!!

Kurosaki-senpai's shout can be heard in front of the offertory box.

Masato Hijirikawa: Y-yes?

Ren Jinguji: What's the matter, Ran-chan?

The two of them look at him blankly.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Just what're you thinking of putting in that offertory box?!

Ren Jinguji: Huh? Well, I was going to put in an offering.

I catch a glimpse of some bills in his hand before they disappear again.

Masato Hijirikawa: Same here, I hadn't planned on putting in anything special….

Like Jinguji-san, Hijirikawa-san is also holding some bills.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Quit playin' with me! What kinda person goes around putting bills in an offertory box?

This is why I can't stand you rich kids.

He steps up to the shrine's offertory box with a commanding stance.

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh no…. I forgot that he has an eccentric obsession with saving money.

Kurosaki-san, please calm down!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You think I'm gonna stay calm 'bout this?!

Kay you guys! We'll go round and say what we think is a fair amount for an offering!

He scowls at us while maintaining his commanding stance.

Haruka Nanami: F-fair amount?!

Is there really such a thing…?

But I have to answer him….

Select the phrase!

Five yen (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: If I recall… five yen represents good luck.

Ren Jinguji: It also represents good relationships. Beautiful, isn't it?

Are you looking for one too?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, no… that wasn't what I….

Masato Hijirikawa: Jinguji, why are you leading the conversation in that direction?

Human relationships are also valuable in work and in business.

It could be interpreted like that too, which is just as important.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh yeah, business relationships are important.

It all goes back to your daily income, y'see.

And that's that, put away those bills and offer up five yen!

Holding a five yen coin between his fingers, he looks at us sternly.

Ren Jinguji: Hah… guess there's no changing his mind.

Following Kurosaki-senpai's lead, we have our five yen coins ready to throw into the offertory box.

Kurosaki-senpai says it's not good to throw money, so we carefully place our coins inside.

Forty-five yen (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Now that you mention it, I've heard that forty-five yen is a good amount to offer.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ah yes, because it holds a wish for "forming lasting relationships".

It's a beautiful example of traditional Japanese wordplay, don't you think?

Ren Jinguji: Lasting relationships, huh? Not a bad choice.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: If it's that much, I guess I can offer that.

Everyone nods at the same time. It's a unanimous agreement.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hmm? I only have a fifty yen coin. Guess I won't get any change back….

Masato Hijirikawa: Please don't demand change from the gods!

Ren Jinguji: How about thinking of it as a five yen tip?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't be such an idiot! He who laughs at one yen will cry over one yen. Every cent counts, y'know.

Kurosaki-senpai firmly holds his head high as he declares that.

Any amount (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I don't think there really is a fair amount….

Ren Jinguji: Yep, I've seen people who throw in stacks of bills on the news before.

Masato Hijirikawa: I believe that's an exception, but… Well, I think it depends on the feelings of the person making the offering.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: This is pointless. If you’re gonna waste your money at a place like this, you should be usin' it on something beneficial to yourself.

Listen up! An offering should be up to 999 yen. I won't accept anything more than that, so put those notes away.

Kurosaki-senpai snaps his fingers and declares the limit for an offering.

In the end, we rummage through our wallets for some small change and manage to make our offerings.

After ringing the bell, we stand next to each other with our hands clasped and close our eyes. The grounds of the shrine are quiet and solemn.

Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the Song Festival. I only have three months left with the agency.

… I want to win the Song Festival so that I'm able to debut.

I earnestly make that wish and lift my head.

Looking to my side, I see Kurosaki-senpai standing quietly with his eyes closed.

Despite saying that he doesn't make wishes to gods….

Watching him stand there proudly with his head bowed is a beautiful sight.

As I'm staring, he lifts his head and our eyes meet.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … What're you grinning at?

He knocks me on the head and lightly pokes me.

Haruka Nanami: Aah… I-I'm sorry.

Um… What did you wish for?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I told you I don't believe in that stuff, didn't I?

I didn't make any.

If I have to say something, then I expressed my determination.

Haruka Nanami: Determination?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, all the things I hope to accomplish this year… stuff like that.

Now's a good chance to do it.

Anyway, how 'bout you?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, well… I want to win the Song Festival and make my debut, so I wished for that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … Y'see here.

For major things like that, say them directly.

Haruka Nanami: Directly?

He quietly tells me it's nothing to worry about and averts his eyes.

Ren Jinguji: Well, we've finished with our prayers.

How about drawing fortunes before we leave?

Jinguji-san stretches widely before moving towards the place where fortunes are being sold.

Haruka Nanami: Ahh, a test of luck!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Just when I thought we were done….

Ren Jinguji: Now, now. Ran-chan, let’s go.

Once again, Kurosaki-senpai is dragged away towards the fortunes.

Ren Jinguji: Oh, medium fortune.

"Someone who has been waiting for you will appear"….

Finally, it's time for my femme fatale to make an entrance.

Masato Hijirikawa: Small fortune. "Your studies will pay off if you work hard"… huh.

Yes, I must be even more diligent.

How about yours?

Haruka Nanami: Um… let's see.

Ah! It's great fortune! I'm going to have great fortune!

I show everyone the fortune I pulled.

Ren Jinguji: That's wonderful, Lady!

Masato Hijirikawa: That’s amazing, I'm sure it will be a good year for you.

Haruka Nanami: Yes! Thank you so much!

Huh? Kurosaki-senpai….

Turning around, I see Kurosaki-senpai lashing out at one of the priests near the fortunes.

Haruka Nanami: S-Senpai? What are you…?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't "what" me, take a look!

He says that while holding out his fortune, waving it around.

Masato Hijirikawa: Please don't wave it around, it makes it difficult to….

What? Catastrophic fortune?!

Haruka Nanami: D-did you say catastrophic?!

Ren Jinguji: Well then….

Good going, Ran-chan.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Quit messin' around!

"Money: You will lose a lot." What the hell's with that?!

For Senpai, he seems to be more concerned about that point rather than the catastrophic misfortune.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: … It's time for payback.

Just as he turns on his heel, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san grab him and hold him back.

Haruka Nanami: P-please calm down!

I… I have to do something as his partner.

Haruka Nanami: H-here, I'll give you my great fortune.

Masato Hijirikawa: Then, please take my small fortune as well.

Without a second thought, Hijirikawa-san places his fortune on top of mine.

Ren Jinguji: Huh, guess I gotta do it too.

Here, you can have my medium fortune.

Now you're all set.

All three fortunes are handed over to Kurosaki-senpai in succession.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Geez, even if you give me your fortunes….

Besides, I'm the one in charge of my own life!

I’m going to take another shot at this.

Once again, just as he turns on his heel, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san hold him back.

If it's come to this….

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai, think of this in a different way!

Determined, I stand in front of Senpai.

Haruka Nanami: T-to lose a lot of money… would mean that you're going to earn lots of money first before you lose it….

Couldn't you think of it like that?

The shrine grounds fall quiet.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What….

You… you've learned to speak for yourself, haven’t you?

Masato Hijirikawa: Whoa….

Ren Jinguji: You did it, Lady.

Haruka Nanami: What's more, the power in these three fortunes will balance it out!

You might even end up with extra good luck left over!

I'm desperate, but somehow I manage to get it all out.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, if you guys insist, then I guess I don't have a choice….

Kurosaki-senpai grumbles as he holds onto the fortunes.

After that, we sip some amazake and tie our fortunes to the branches of a plum blossom tree growing in the shrine's courtyard.

Lastly, I put my hands together, praying deep in my heart for everyone’s happiness and success before leaving the shrine.

Afterwards, we head towards the office.

Maybe it was because of the ruckus at the shrine, but everyone looks exhausted.

Haruka Nanami: Are you going to have a meeting to discuss hidden talents now?

Kurosaki-senpai nods in confirmation.

Each year, the president hosts a New Year's party for Shining Agency.

Last year, I wasn't able to attend, but it seems the hidden talents contest is the highlight of the party, and all of the agency's stars take part in it.

This year, it’s been decided that the Master Course teams will each participate as a unit. It looks like Kurosaki-senpai, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san are going to start planning for it now.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, we are. However, Kurosaki-san, you were quick to agree to participate.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's a real pain. But if it's for a prize, of course I gotta do it.

Haruka Nanami: Is the grand prize really that extravagant?

Ren Jinguji: Last year's prize was a gold statue of the boss.

Putting aside the question of whether one would display it or not, it does boast some extravagance.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Every year, Hyuga-san and Tsukimiya-san engage in a fierce battle.

We can't lose against them….

Masato Hijirikawa: In addition, there's a penalty for the team in last place.

At the very least, I would like to avoid that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Tch, what're you saying?

If we're doing this, of course we're aimin' to win.

Listen up! Things are gonna get busy from now on!

Ren Jinguji: Okay, Ran-chan!

Masato Hijirikawa: I have a bad feeling about this, but it looks like I don't have a choice.

I understand.

I wonder what kind of hidden talents they'll show off?

I'm looking forward to it.

A few days later, I arrive at the New Year's party.

Haruka Nanami: Wow, amazing….

The venue is decorated lavishly, with many well-dressed stars coming in and out of it.

Even though it's just for the agency, the president remains a fan of brilliance and glamour.

A gigantic banquet hall has been booked for the occasion.

Haruka Nanami: It's dazzling.

I thought I had dressed somewhat presentable myself, but compared to the aura of the people coming and going around me….

I feel like I shouldn’t stay here.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan! A Happy New Year to you!!

Haruka Nanami: Ehh!

Suddenly, something covers my head from behind and my vision is plunged into darkness.

Camus: The lion dance….

I see, it's a traditional Japanese event.

How interesting.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hweihi! Hugt noft haeut!

Heh iho fueh, iho!

Ai Mikaze: Camus, the lion dance originated from China.

Ranmaru, don't talk with your mouth full.

And Reiji, you don't cover the whole head in lion dancing. You only need to bite it.

Reiji Kotobuki: Oh, is that right?

Ai-Ai is as knowledgeable as ever. Well then!

The object on top of my head sways unsteadily.

Haruka Nanami: Ahhhh!

Camus: Enough, Kotobuki.

Gradually, my vision becomes bright again.

When I turn around, everyone is standing there.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, you're all here! Happy New Year!

Wow, all of you came dressed in kimonos today.

I fix my eyes on the sight of the four of them in their kimonos.

Reiji Kotobuki: Well, well? How do we look, Kouhai-chan?

Kotobuki-senpai asks as he opens and closes the lion's mouth.

Haruka Nanami: Yes! You all look wonderful!

But why did you come in kimonos?

Camus: We didn’t have a choice. Saotome gave us orders to come in kimonos today.

It seems that many stars were encouraged to wear kimonos to this event.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's not a big deal. I've worn one a couple times before, in the past.

Ai Mikaze: Oh? I didn't know that.

Now that you mention it, you helped Camus fix his collar earlier.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I don't like seeing it all crooked. If I do see somethin' like that, it makes me irritated.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yoo-hoo~! Are there any naughty kids around~?

Kotobuki-senpai holds up the lion and passes in front of Kurosaki-senpai.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey Reiji, cool it! Your obi's gonna come loose!

Camus: Stop it, Kotobuki! Don't bite my head with that lion from some foreign country!

I've sworn allegiance to my country, and….

Ai Mikaze: "Are there any naughty kids"... isn't that from a Namahage ritual?

Soon, Kotobuki-senpai, Mikaze-senpai, and Camus-senpai wander off, leaving me alone with Kurosaki-senpai.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Aren't you eating anything?

Senpai asks me with a box of New Year's food in his hand.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. It's just that it all looked so extravagant, I got overwhelmed….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: There's no need to hold back. It's all free, so don't go home 'til you've gotten your money's worth.

C'mon, follow me.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Um….

Kurosaki-senpai leaves the room briskly, and I scamper after him.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, over here. Now then—looks like they got sushi, soba, crab….

I haven't had any tempura yet either. You want some?

Kurosaki-senpai puts a plate in each of my hands and casually starts to heap food onto them.

In my right hand is Japanese food, and in my left hand is Western food.

Everything looks delicious, and yet….

Haruka Nanami: Um, Senpai. It seems like you're getting a lot of attention….

Even among the idols, Kurosaki-senpai stands out in particular with his makeup and kimono.

Everyone stares in amazement, but he continues to heap food onto the plates anyway.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't worry 'bout them. Anyway, have you been eating properly?

Here, have some prawn.

As if to give it a finishing touch, he puts some prawn tempura on top of the pile of food.

The final mound is an unnatural amount of food in a wide variety of colors.

Ai Mikaze: What are the two of you doing? Is that your hidden talent?

Before I realize, everyone else has returned.

Haruka Nanami: N-no, it's not!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Now you've got a bit of everything. Alright!!

Despite my bewilderment, he looks over at me with a satisfied expression on his face.

Haruka Nanami: Um, well you see. Both of my hands are full….

It's a standing buffet, so even if I want to put the dishes down, there's no place to put them.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ah, now that you mention it. Yeah.

I might've gotten a bit carried away.

Ai Mikaze: Geez, he really didn't think ahead….

Reiji Kotobuki: This is the part where he does that thing, isn't it? The scenario where Ranran will go "say 'aaahh'" right?

Come on, you gotta do it to Kouhai-chan!

For some reason Kotobuki-senpai looks happy, opening the lion's mouth wide as if waiting to receive something.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Wha?! What're you sayin'….

As if I'd be able to do something like that in front of you guys!

Camus: However, making a lady hold the plates while you stuff yourself full….

That's not a good look.

Reiji Kotobuki: Then, I guess I'd better feed her for you~

Here you go, say 'aaahh'~

Kotobuki-senpai grabs a pair of chopsticks using his free hand.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You idiot, knock it off!! Argh, fine….

Hey, pick which one you wanna eat.

Kurosaki-senpai asks me with his chopsticks in hand.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Um….

Select the phrase!

Omurice (+30 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Then, I'll have the omurice please.

Seeing Kurosaki-senpai reminds me of how you look when you make it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You like it that much, huh?

Haven't you had enough of it from having staff meals?

He looks just a little embarrassed.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'd understand if it's your favorite food, but….

Man, of all the things you could have picked, it's the one hardest to grab with chopsticks!

Haruka Nanami: Ah, I'm sorry!

Even as he says that, he skillfully portions out the omurice with his chopsticks.

Hamburg steak (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Then… I'll have the hamburg steak….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hamburg steak? Oh, this?

The portion looks like it’s for a child….

But, well, meat’s a good choice.

Kurosaki-senpai grips the small piece of hamburg steak with his chopsticks.

Sushi (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: T-then, I think I'll have the sushi. I reply in resignation.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Heh, didn't think you'd go for the expensive choice.

Well, I guess it's okay….

As he says that, Kurosaki-senpai picks up a piece of tuna sushi with his chopsticks.

I face Kurosaki-senpai, who is poised with his chopsticks, ready to feed me.

Haruka Nanami: Um….

Incidentally, the way he holds his chopsticks is very lovely.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, come on. Hurry up and open your mouth.

It's hard to keep this up.

His chopsticks waver unsteadily.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes!!

Pressured by the turn of events, I open my mouth without thinking.

Reiji Kotobuki: Alright! Go for it, Ranran!!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Geez, you're such a pain! Just shut up!

C'mon, here!

Even as he raises his voice, Kurosaki-senpai pops the food into my mouth.

Reiji Kotobuki: Whoa~, I didn't think he would actually….

Ai Mikaze: I see, so this is how one tames a wild animal using food.

Camus: How should I put this….

It's more embarrassing for those watching.

I realize that rather than just Camus-senpai and the others, the entire hall is now staring at me.

And in front of me is Kurosaki-senpai, holding onto his chopsticks while he waits to see how I will react.

Haruka Nanami: I-it's really delicious. And yet, I can't help but notice that we seem to be drawing a lot of attention….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So what? Don't worry 'bout what others think. I forge my own path.

What should we have next…. Maybe the tempura. Here, eat up.

He carefully dips it in sauce and holds out a piece of prawn tempura towards me.

All eyes turn towards us as we prepare for a second round.

Haruka Nanami: U-um…. No thank you, I think I'll pass.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What? You won't eat my tempura?

Don't be a picky eater.

Haruka Nanami: No, it's not that I don't like it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: When you can eat, then eat. That should be an ironclad rule.

Otherwise, when push comes to shove, you won't be able to act.

Particularly on a day like today, just before an all-important match.

Haruka Nanami: B-but I'm not participating in the hidden talents contest…!

He glares at me sharply.

Haruka Nanami: Y-Yes sir….

I give in and open my mouth.

After that, he continues to pop food into my mouth, one bite after another.

All of it is delicious and I'm really happy, but it's also very embarrassing….

Kurosaki-senpai and I end up standing out more than anyone else in the hall.

In the end, Kurosaki-senpai helps me to finish everything, and my plate is finally cleared. That's when….

Shining Saotome: Now then!! The entertainment corner that everyone has been waiting for!

Get ready all of YOU, the hidden talents contest is about to start, YO!

Finally, today's main event, the hidden talents contest, begins.

Up on stage, everyone unleashes their all to showcase their hidden talents.

This year's hidden talent display from Hyuga-sensei is a one-man theatrical production.

The theme is a contemporary arrangement of Hamlet.

Ryuya Hyuga: To be or not to be, that is the question….

As expected of Hyuga-sensei, his acting skills are top-notch.

He seems to be accustomed to the stage, his suffering and anguish on display for all to see.

And then….

Ryuya Hyuga: Get thee to a nunnery! And if you wish, then I'll be your opponent!

Stripping off his costume, he reveals his costume from "Prince of Fighting" underneath.

Everyone is in an uproar over the transition from one prince to another.

The audience gives a generous round of applause to Hyuga-sensei for performing the collaboration between the two series all by himself.

It's just as expected from the fan favorite.

An amazing show of hidden talent.

The other acts finish, and finally it's time for Kurosaki-senpai's group to go on stage.

He was very eager about it. I wonder what they're going to do.

I'm excited to see.

Above the stage, a large mirror is set up and a gentle melody begins to flow.

The three of them scurry out onto the stage.

Masato Hijirikawa: All right everybody, gather around~!

A fun play is about to begin!

Ren Jinguji: What kind of story will we see today~?

Well then, let's go. It's time for World Masterpiece Theater!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Peachtaro!

The three of them strike a clean pose.

Haruka Nanami: Taro?

The room is abuzz with commotion.

Ryuya Hyuga: Tch, so they're doing a play as well….

Hyuga-sensei mutters to himself at my side.

The three of them exit briefly, and then Hijirikawa-san reappears onstage by himself.

For some reason, Hijirikawa-san is dressed as a woman and begins to address the mirror.

Masato Hijirikawa: Mirror, mirror, on the wall. Who is the fairest of them all?

Ringo Tsukimiya: Me?

Ryuya Hyuga: Er, I don't think so.

As if it’s a conditioned reflex, Hyuga-sensei pushes Tsukimiya-sensei, who had begun to stand up from the audience, back down into his seat.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ask, and I shall answer. There is no one fairer but you!

Ahh, Hijirikawa-san is putting in his best effort to play a double role.

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh, how wonderful. Then, oh mirror, mirror, on the wall.

Who is the strongest of them all?

The room is filled with silence….

Masato Hijirikawa: Ask, and I shall answer. There is no one stronger than… Peachtaro!

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh myyyyy, how terrible!!

Then I have no choice but to have Taro die by eating these "poisoned dango"!

Hijirikawa-san takes the dango in his hand and injects poison into them.

… The scene changes to an unfamiliar road.

Kurosaki-senpai appears, riding on a horse.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yo! I'm Peachtaro, the boy born of a peach!

I'm gonna be the strongest man in the world!

I'm unstoppable, so you better watch out~!

Camus: Pfft!!

Next to me, Camus-senpai spits out the oolong tea he had been drinking.

Camus: Excuse me….

Haruka Nanami: Ah, it's okay….

Camus: … By the way, I'm the one who supplied that horse.

Haruka Nanami: Ehh?!

He seems to have brought it all the way from his home in Silk Palace.

During our conversation, the play continues.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, you guys over there!

Wanna come with me and beat up some evil demons?

Kurosaki-senpai… or rather, Peachtaro asks with a flash of white teeth.

Masato Hijirikawa: Woof, woof! If I can get my paws on some of those delicious looking dango, I'll go with you, woof!

Ren Jinguji: A pheasant like me can't pass up a good dango either, coo!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Haha, 'course you can have some.

My sis makes the best and coolest dango around!

Whenever Kurosaki-san says something, the audience tries excruciatingly hard to resist the urge to laugh.

Everyone… please hang in there.

Hijirikawa-san as the dog and Jinguji-san as the pheasant take the dango from Peachtaro.

Ren Jinguji: Thank you, Taro-kun!

Masato Hijirikawa: Wow, it's huge! It looks like a solid portion.

But I think you should have it, Taro-san. This smaller piece is enough for me.

The dog gives his dango to Peachtaro and takes a smaller portion for himself.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ah, sorry 'bout that.

… Since we all have some now, let's eat it together!

Seeing Peachtaro with a wide smile on his face, the dog and the pheasant both smile and nod.

All three of them bite into their dango at the same time.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ugh…! Arghhhhh…!

Ren Jinguji: Urk…! This….

Don't tell me it was poisoned…?

Oh my goodness! Everyone just collapsed all at once.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ur, hgh….

Guhhh! Hah…….

Peachtaro writhes about on the floor in pain.

Haruka Nanami: Amazing, Kurosaki-senpai. Such realistic acting!!

Reiji Kotobuki: Hey, Ranran's face is all red….

Whoa, now he's starting to turn blue.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Ah, you're right.

Then, the dog next to Peachtaro slowly begins to get up.

Masato Hijirikawa: Hahaha. Finally, my days of being pushed around by you are over, Kurosaki-san!

… I-I mean, Peachtaro!

Without a moment's delay, Hijirikawa-san quickly changes costumes.

In his place stands the woman who appeared at the beginning of the play.

Ren Jinguji: Y-you…. You were just pretending…!

You tricked us!!

Masato Hijirikawa: Ohohoho!! You simpletons!

Hijirikawa-san cackles with glee.

Ren Jinguji: Hm? Hey, Ran-chan. Ran-chan.

Masato Hijirikawa: What's the matter, Jinguji?

Ren Jinguji: Well, it's just that Ran-chan….

He's not breathing.

Masato Hijirikawa: He's what?!

What's going on…?

Gradually, the audience begins to murmur in confusion.

Masato Hijirikawa: Please hang in there, Kurosaki-san!!

Hijirikawa-san slaps Kurosaki-san firmly on the cheeks.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hrk, ugh… guh….

Kurosaki-senpai begins to stir.

Ren Jinguji: Ah, thank goodness. Are you okay, Taro?

… Sorry, I mean, Ran-chan.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Guh….

Dango… in… my… throat….

That's all he says before collapsing again.

Masato Hijirikawa: Wha?!

That's why I asked you to be careful during rehearsal…!!

At that moment, the horse neighs, startled by Hijirikawa-san's loud voice….

It suddenly runs out of the hall.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Urk… guh….

Hrk… hrk….

Ah… that's better….

Kurosaki-senpai is able to breathe again!

Relieved, the two of them stroke his shoulders.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Waaahhhhh, don't come any closer!!

Ryuya Hyuga: Everyone, get outta here!

However the horse, in its confusion, runs towards the audience.

Camus: Calm down, Stallion! Hyaa!!

Camus-senpai swiftly jumps onto the horse and takes the reins.

Camus: Whoa there, easy. You were scared, weren't you Stallion?

But it's okay now.

He smoothly pets the horse's muzzle.

The horse has calmed down, but….

Haruka Nanami: Aah… the hall is a mess.

Shining Saotome: Hrmmmmmmmmmmm.

What happened to my exciting New Year's party?!

YOU three, prepare for punishmeeent!!

The president raises his voice.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Seriously…?

Their shoulders slump in disappointment.

Shining Saotome: Oh, and I declare Ryuya-san as the victorrr.

For first place, the prize is this ice sculpture of ME!!

The president points sharply to the icy figure towering over the center of the hall.

Ryuya Hyuga: I don't want it!!

Hyuga-sensei's exclamation echoes throughout the hall, and the New Year's party ends in the midst of the uproar.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What a way to start the new year….

Guess this is what it meant by “catastrophic fortune”.

Haruka Nanami: Hmm, maybe we couldn't cover all of it and some was still left over.

On my way home, I ran into Kurosaki-senpai.

He said that the president's penalty would take place over three days starting from tonight.

The details were unknown, but it involved staying overnight.

Plus, Jinguji-san and Hijirikawa-san were already dragged there, undergoing their penalty.

Kurosaki-senpai must have told them he was going to his place to pick up his bags before heading off.

It was probably a physical kind of punishment, but he brushed it off saying that this sort of thing was common for Shining Agency idols to endure.

I often hear from one of the TV staff whom I work with that the idols at Shining Agency are very good at adapting to the unexpected….

So it's through this kind of activity that their skills are developed?

… Amazing.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: To tell you the truth, I wanted to have a meeting about the Song Festival tomorrow, but….

Just when I thought New Year's was over, this happened.

Kurosaki-senpai is a popular idol.

Naturally, he was very busy through to the end of the year and New Year holidays.

Just when he finally had a day off, the president had the final say and called off those plans.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai, you were this busy with your work over New Year's and the hidden talents contest, huh….

The big event at the agency is over, and I thought we would get to talk about the song. I'm a little disappointed we couldn't do that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey, no need to look so dejected.

I'll find time in between work and look at the song then.

By the way, are you getting a break?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, I can afford to relax a bit at the start of the year.

So I thought of composing a few extra songs.

It's better to keep a stockpile of them.

Oh, can I try to compose one song for the Song Festival as a suggestion first?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Huh? Sure, I guess.

Let's see what you come up with.

It better not be something weird though, 'cause I'm not afraid of rejecting it.

Haruka Nanami: Hehe, there's something I've been wanting to compose….

I want to take the melody I felt on Christmas night and give it proper shape as a song.

We are just about to reach the corner of the road. From here, we will go our separate ways.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I got it. Work on the song well while I'm gone.

I'll give it a listen when I get back from the penalty.

Select the phrase!

I won't let you down! (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Okay! I won't let you down!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Heh, someone's fired up.

Well, I'm lookin' forward to it.

You'll do fine.

He smiles and turns towards the road.

Please do your best. (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I'll be waiting.

Please do your best.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yeah, same goes for you.

I don't know what kinda mess I'll find myself in for the punishment, but I'll get it over and done with.

Haruka Nanami: See you later!

You'll listen to it? (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Wow, you'll really listen to it?!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Why're you so surprised?

Didn't I tell you last month I would join you for the Song Festival?

So of course I will.

Glancing at me, Senpai turns towards the road.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'll send you a message later.

Well then, I'm off. See ya.

Kurosaki-senpai waves lightly, returning home to get ready.

After Christmas night, I feel like I've gotten a little bit closer to him.

Haruka Nanami: Alright, I'd better give it my all too.

I have to start thinking about the song right away.

With that, I head back to the agency dorms.

I focus on composing the song for the Song Festival while waiting for Kurosaki-senpai to return.

The fact that other work has stopped gives me plenty of time to concentrate solely on the Song Festival. It feels almost luxurious.

I think a lot about Senpai as I write the song.

I think about his sparkling, shining figure atop the Christmas Live stage.

I think about the kindness that he sometimes shows behind his blunt words, his honesty when it comes to music, and his strength….

I have the bass pick that I received from him on display on my desk. Sometimes, I touch it while writing the song.

The pick is a deep red color. It's light with a roundish sort of shape, almost like a rose petal.

My phone chimes.

Haruka Nanami: Huh? It's a message from Senpai.

Even though he's in the middle of the penalty.

Sender: Ranmaru Kurosaki

Title: No Title

Keep this Thursday afternoon free. I'll check out the song then.

By the way, if you were to name a white tiger, would 'Tiger' be okay?

Haruka Nanami: T-Tiger…?

What a mysterious question.

Why is he asking something like that?

Is Senpai safe as he’s undergoing his punishment?

For the time being, I reply with "'Snowy' is nice too" and resume working on the song.

When he comes back, I'll ask him about it.

Five days after the New Year's party, I visit the agency.

I exchange glances with Hijirikawa-san who happens to be there as well.

He raises his hand and greets me.

Haruka Nanami: Hijirikawa-san!

You must have had a hard time with the hidden talents contest and the penalty….

Masato Hijirikawa: No, I'm just glad you didn't get trampled on by a horse.

But yes, it was a lot to deal with….

I can see the hardships he went through from the expression on his face.

Jinguji-san, who had been collecting some documents in the back, also came over to us.

Ren Jinguji: Yo, Lady.

Man, we suffered a lot.

There's the same tiredness in Jinguji-san's expression.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, speaking of which. I received a message from Kurosaki-senpai asking about 'Tiger' as a name….

Masato Hijirikawa: Ahh…. Actually, as part of the penalty, we were taken to Saotome-san's house to take care of his pets….

Haruka Nanami: Pets?

Ren Jinguji: Yeah. For three days, we had to take care of the boss' pets….

Jinguji-san's expression becomes downcast.

Masato Hijirikawa: It's hard to believe it's a private collection….

Ren Jinguji: On top of having fierce animals from all around the world, he even has a giant insectarium.

Masato Hijirikawa: No more, Jinguji!! Don't remind me!!

Hijirikawa-san's face is ghastly pale as he clamps a hand over his mouth.

Come to think of it, I remember Hijirikawa-san being terrified of insects.

Haruka Nanami: Fierce animals too? That… must have been hard.

Ren Jinguji: Yeah. Even now, I still can't shake some of the exhaustion….

Jinguji-san lightly puts a hand to his forehead.

Ren Jinguji: To add to that, there was some trouble at home and my brother called me, which was unusual.

Haruka Nanami: Trouble, you say?

I hear that as of late, someone has been hanging around Jinguji-san's and Hijirikawa-san's family's homes and messing with them.

Haruka Nanami: If it involves both your families… I'm guessing it's trouble relating to the conglomerates?

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, that's right.

I heard that an emerging holding company is doing some considerably shady business.

I've also been urgently summoned to a family meeting.

I haven't had a good night's sleep since I got back from the president's house.

Haruka Nanami: Oh my….

You've all been hard at work.

Masato Hijirikawa: Oh no, Kurosaki-san is the one who has been working consistently since he got back from the president's house.

Hijirikawa-san nods, saying that he would have to learn from him, but his face lacks vigor.

Haruka Nanami: Please don't push yourselves too much.

Shouldn't you both finish early today and rest?

Ren Jinguji: I suppose you're right.

I just came to collect some documents, but I'll do as you say. Thanks.

The two of them leave the office looking exhausted.

Trouble with the conglomerates. That sounds tough.

Afterwards, as I sit in the room waiting for our meeting, Kurosaki-senpai arrives right on time.

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai! Are you okay?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Huh? What, did something happen?

Placing his things on the table, he takes a seat and eyes me with a curious look.

Haruka Nanami: Ah no, I heard from Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san about how you had to take care of the president's pets….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh, you mean like the tiger and the lion?

It was no big deal. Piece o' cake.

Haruka Nanami: A-amazing….

Is that so? The other two seemed exhausted….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That's 'cause they're sloppy.

Especially Masato. He saw one bug and started kickin' up a huge fuss like an idiot.

Ren being Ren got attached to the females, but the males saw him as their enemy and a threat.

In the end, I got stuck with having to take care of everything.

Haruka Nanami: Wow, that's quite the feat.

All of the wild animals acted like that?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: They all behaved themselves for me. After all, they're just like big cats.

Haruka Nanami: Cats….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The only annoying thing was they kept comin' at me day and night, wanting me to play with them and feed them. Sometimes it's no joke when they get playful.

Now that I think about it, when I visited his home, the cats seemed quite fond of him.

I wonder if it's Kurosaki-senpai's nature that makes animals drawn to him?

Haruka Nanami: By the way, do you like animals, Senpai?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's not that I like them in particular.

They come and hang around me all on their own.

Haruka Nanami: I see….

Hmm, surely they do that because….

Select the phrase!

They know you're gentle. (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: It's because they realize that you're a gentle person.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hah, what're you saying?

I'm not gentle at all.

Senpai rests his chin in his hands, letting out a small breath.

Haruka Nanami: Animals are honest creatures. Surely, they can tell.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Geez. They've always been attached to me.

Even though I don't remember feeding them, they still cling to me anyway.

When I say I won't take care of them, they don't listen.

I ended up feeding them because they were making so much noise, and then they decided to stick around.

Weren't you the same?

Haruka Nanami: N-no way! I'm not a cat or anything….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Heh, we'll see about that.

Kurosaki-senpai smiles upon saying those words.

They think you look tasty. (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Perhaps, they look at you and see a tasty treat?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh, hey. Now that you mention it, they did like to lick me a lot….

Yeah no, that's just dumb!

Haruka Nanami: But your hair is so fluffy, maybe they thought it looked like cotton candy….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: More like your brain is filled with cotton candy.

What's so tasty about me? My muscles are all brawny and tough. Even a lion would leave those parts behind.

You on the other hand, you'd probably be eaten up in an instant. You're much softer and tastier looking than me. Better be careful.

Haruka Nanami: No! We can't have that!

I frantically wave my hands.

They find you alike. (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Maybe they find that you're similar to them?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Similar? Me, similar to tigers and lions?

Kurosaki-senpai glares at me sharply.

Haruka Nanami: Um… I mean it in the wild sense.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Wild, huh… guess that ain't bad.

Maybe I'll incorporate a leopard print into my next costume….

After saying that, he begins to think about it intently.

I'm sure Kurosaki-senpai can pull off the look well.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Now then, there's no time to waste. Let's get right into it.

Can't buy time, after all.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. Once again, I look forward to working with you for the Song Festival!

I bow my head and Kurosaki-senpai nods lightly in return.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Y-yeah, same here.

Let's get down to business. You’ve finished the song, right? Lemme hear it.

Haruka Nanami: Okay! I made it with my own impression of you in mind.

Taking out the song, Senpai nods in satisfaction, folds his arms, and closes his eyes.

He's positioned himself to listen carefully.

Haruka Nanami: Well then, I hope you like it!

I press the play button on the music player.

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (S RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Not bad at all….

It's a good start.

Haruka Nanami: Y-you really mean that?!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Idiot, don't get carried away.

The question is how high can we go from here?

After all, our goal is to win.

Haruka Nanami: Yes!!

At least it's a passing grade for now!

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (A-B RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's okay.

Not bad, but it looks like we still have a long way to go.

Well, you just gotta keep at it.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I'll give it my all!

I nod deeply in response.

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (C-D RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Why you! Eyes on me and listen up!

You can't expect to win if you start out like this!

At this rate, we won't even get a participation award!

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorryyyyy!!

Flustered, I straighten my back.

I become subject to waves of scolding before having to start over.

He's so strict…!

______________________________

After listening to the song, Kurosaki-senpai keeps his arms crossed, as if he’s still pondering over something.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So that's your impression of me….

Is this how you see me?

Kurosaki-senpai eventually asks me.

Haruka Nanami: That's right!

Of course, when I think of Kurosaki-senpai, I think of rock. But I thought that I could show even more to everyone—a new side of you that the world hasn't seen yet.

That's why I kept elements of rock, which make up your soul. But I also filled it with things that I've felt from you, like your honesty and your kindness that sometimes shines through.

I want you to sing a song that only you can express, a song that only you can sing, without being limited to rock or idol songs.

I boldly share all of my thoughts with him.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I see. If you focus on that, there's a chance it'll come out half-assed.

Not only the song, but I’ll also start to question my ability to express myself.

… 'Kay. Seeing as you've put this much thought into the song, I'll follow ya.

It's caught my interest, so we'll go with it.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, thank you so much!

I'm glad that he's accepted it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh, that's right. I've got a job I wanna ask you to do.

After we finish talking about the song festival, Kurosaki-senpai speaks up.

Haruka Nanami: A job for me? What is it?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I've been asked to create the new opening theme for my upcoming program, but I wanted to see if you'd do it instead.

You wanna give it a shot?

Haruka Nanami: Huh, me? I would be honored but….

Is it really okay for someone like me to do it?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't gimme that.

Have more confidence in yourself, y'hear me?!

When I ask him about it timidly, he looks at me sharply.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes…!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The director of the program was having a hard time choosing someone.

So I recommended you, since you seemed free at the start of the year.

Haruka Nanami: You recommended me?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, when they asked me if I knew any composers, you came to mind.

And I happened to be carrying your music at the time….

Haruka Nanami: You had it at the time?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I-I just forgot to delete the Christmas Live track, okay?!

He abruptly averts his gaze, but….

He thought he could trust me with composing the opening theme for his program, so that must be why he offered the job to me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Anyway! You wanna do it or not? Answer me.

He glances at me as I’m still bewildered and asks again.

Select the phrase!

I'll do my best! (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I got it. I'll do my best!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Of course you will!

Prove your worth with results, and don't you dare make me look bad.

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

I nod with a smile.

I would be happy to. (+15 Love)

I'm a little nervous about some things, but of course….

Haruka Nanami: I would be happy to. Thank you so much.

I bow deeply because his feelings make me happy.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, so long as you're the composer, I'm pretty certain it'll all go smoothly.

Kurosaki-senpai murmurs in a small voice.

I'm not sure…. (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Um, I'm not sure if I can, but….

I want to meet Senpai's expectations. With that feeling in mind, I muster up my courage.

Haruka Nanami: I'm willing to try my best. Thank you.

When I say that with my head bowed, Senpai looks at me as if relieved.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Here's all the info.

Also, there's a script to read for reference.

Kurosaki-senpai slides an A4 envelope across the table to me.

Haruka Nanami: "Ranmaru Kurosaki's Rock 'n' Roller"… i-isn't this a really popular program?!

"Ranmaru Kurosaki's Rock 'n' Roller" is a talk show that focuses on the latest music.

Inside the envelope is an outline of the program and the script for the next recording.

If I recall, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san also appear on the program.

I wonder if they were here earlier for a copy of the script.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The next recording will be at the start of next month. Come and see for yourself.

Then right after, we'll have a meeting. How 'bout it?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! That's fine with me.

I check my schedule and confirm that I can make it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Kay, thanks.

Make sure you think of some ideas for the opening by then.

And it goes without sayin', but don't lose focus on the Song Festival either. Got it?

Haruka Nanami: Of course!

It'll be tough, but the thought of a new challenge excites me.

I'll do the best that I can!

Following that, Kurosaki-senpai gave me his critique on the solo song and a brief explanation of the program before hurrying off to his next job.

He looks as busy as ever.

I stayed behind in the conference room for a bit longer to check the documents. By the time I left the office, the sun had already set.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, it's snowing….

Did I bring my umbrella?

It had just started to snow by the time I was ready to leave.

Shivering, I step out onto the street in front of the office when I notice a large black car parked off to the side.

Haruka Nanami: A guest…? But why did they go to the trouble of parking on the street?

About four or five men dressed in suits are surrounding the car, talking amongst themselves in front of the office.

They don't seem to be from the media.

Haruka Nanami: What are they here for…?

There's something strange about them, I think to myself as I cross the road and put some distance between us.

It appears there is still someone else inside the car. One of the suited men runs over and opens the door.

He unfolds an umbrella and, underneath it, a man in his forties gets out of the car.

For a moment, our eyes meet. His eyes are narrow and almost like slits.

I immediately clutch my umbrella closer to myself.

A light layer of snow piles up on the black car.

However, the men standing around show no sign of getting out their umbrellas.

They observe the office for a while, exchanging a word or two before getting back into the car.

What was that…?

I have an uneasy feeling about this.

I keep my umbrella low over my face as I walk.

The black car passes by me, going straight through the green light at the intersection.

I stare blankly at the tail lights of the car as it drives away in the falling snow.

(Chapter End)

#utapri #ranmaru kurosaki #all star ranmaru

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rosietrace · 2 years ago

Text

Melodic Misconceptions 🎹

Track 12: Business & production

Synopsis: Victoria Shard was a former member of the popular idol group [ Poisoner ] from NRC corporations. After discourse with her group leader, Victoria decided it was best for her to leave and pursue her solo career in a record label run by her parents.

It had been half a year since her separation from her old group, and Victoria had never been more successful. But now she has a new problem. She must return to NRC corporations in order to mentor the seven idol groups.

Ellis Clawthorne is a member of [ (Co)-connect ] the most recent group under NRC'S belt. With no experience as an idol, Ellis must persevere in order to succeed and pursue her dreams.

Will both girls be able to adapt to their current situations?

✐ ✎_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_✐ ✎

Author's note: Apparently I've changed my mind and Y/N's gonna be more central to the plot than I originally thought 😶

I feel like the other ships will only be implied, and that Victoria's relationship with Y/N will be the only 'actual' ship that isn't implied. I hope you guys are okay with that ^^||

In other news, I had a lot of fun making the fake Twitter posts and just poking fun at Aguri in general XD the man's gonna get character development, of course, but that doesn't change the fact that he's currently filled with clownery 🤡

Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy this new track ^^ 'Young and beautiful' was definitely my first choice for Victoria's new single other than the demo for 'Diet mountain dew'

──ㅇ─────↻ ◁ II ▷ ↺───ㅇ────

"You should try safety precautions. It would help you stop that habit of injuring yourself."

Yuuta complained, replacing the ice pack on Ellis's sprained ankle with another one. Ellis had her hands up defensively, eyebrows raised.

"In my defense, I was trying to make our mentor happy after she was having a bad day!" Ellis exclaimed, hiding away the seething pain she felt from the numbness of her ankle.

Victoria chuckled."I appreciate that you were willing to do that for me, Ellis, but your health and safety should come first and foremost." She said, carefully inspecting her ankle just in case there were more major injuries than she thought. Thankfully, there were none.

Mayuu massaged her temples in exasperation."If this continues, I swear to God…" Mayuu muttered, causing Yuuta to snort.

Juvia laughed awkwardly, sitting next to Ellis."Don't worry, Mayuu, we'll do our best to ensure that something like this doesn't happen again." She assured, giving Mayuu a presentable yet gentle smile.

Thankfully, that was technically enough to calm her down a bit. Just a bit.

Suddenly, Juvia turned to Victoria."Oh, right, aren't you supposed to be recording the official version of your latest single? I heard from Zen that you've already finished the demos."

Victoria shrugged."Yes, but I've also been told that I have to prepare for the filming of the music video." Juvia formed an 'o' with her mouth and sent her a supportive nod.

Suddenly, Mayuu was given a last-minute text."Hm?" Catching everyone's attention, Mayuu tapped the notification to check what the text was about.

And judging by her expression after reading it, it wasn't good news.

Wanting to check for himself, Yuuta quickly took away Mayuu's phone and observed the text. After doing so, his eyebrows raised in shock.

"Ah…." Victoria tilted her head, raising an eyebrow at the suited young man.

"What is it?" She asked in concern, making Mayuu and Yuuta look at each other, silently debating on who should tell her the news by invoking eye contact with one another.

In the end, it was Yuuta who lost the battle.

"One of the idol group leaders from the other divisions will be in charge of visuals for the music video…"

Noticing the distaste in his voice, Victoria grew suspicious. Who could it be? She wondered.

"Okay…? Why do you appear so bewildered by such news?"

Yuuta glanced at Mayuu, and the look in his eyes was enough for her to huff and let Victoria witness the aggravation in her eyes.

"It's Vil."

In a flash, the atmosphere grew tense. And it felt suffocating.

".... Vil?"

"Yes." Mayuu tensed up, backing away a bit just in case Victoria lashes out. She didn't want to fall victim to her unrevealed wrath.

Ellis let out a frustrated scoff."It was probably because of the CEO… How 'gracious' of him to allow Vil to work with Victoria again." Her words were covered in venom, irritation with everything that came out of her mouth.

Miren bit back a loud scoff."Bastard…" he muttered, leaning against the doorframe of Ellis's bedroom.

Chizuko rolled her eyes at the mention of the CEO."You'd think he'd read the room and, y'know, not let something like this happen." She complained, toying with the heavy case in her hands that had her bass inside.

Carol sighed heavily, filled with aggravation because of the unexpected news."Unfortunately, I'm assuming that they're keen on letting Vil be in charge of the music video's visuals. Likely, they won't allow him to be replaced." She chimed in, resting her head on the hand while sitting close to Ellis's desk.

Ellis turned to Victoria, who was staring at the floor, eyes wide and possibly fuming in anger."You…. You don't need to have him in charge of that part of the production! You're the one who made the song, after all, I think you should have the final say on everything that goes on in the music video!" Ellis exclaimed, trying to stand up before plopping herself back on the pillows.

Yuuta folded his arms together."She's got a point, y'know. You don't have to let Vil join production if you-"

"It's fine."

The room fell deeper in silence.

Victoria inhaled, preparing to leave the room as she stood up and turned to face everyone.

"Whatever Vil says won't be enough to break me."

──ㅇ─────↻ ◁ II ▷ ↺───ㅇ────

Circe hummed, sitting on his bed while tweaking his guitar. He was cooped up in his room all day, never bothering to congratulate Vil after he became the head of the visuals for a music video.

Besides, he didn't even know who Vil was going to work with. At least not yet.

Hearing a knock on the door, Circe raised his head."Come in." He answered, quickly putting down his guitar once he noticed it was Epel.

Epel sent him a small and awkward wave."Hi… How have you been doing?" He asked, knowing Circe was a little upset by his presence.

"I'm fine. What do you need?" Circe asked without a hint of hesitation.

Epel glanced to the side for a moment."I just wanted to properly inform you on who the mentor of [ (Co)-connect ] is." He had his hands behind his back, along with a drop of sweat falling down his porcelain face.

This again?... Circe thought, squinting his eyes."Okay? Who is it?" He questioned, allowing his curiosity to pique for a couple of fleeting moments.

Epel inhaled sharply, looking as though he'd cry as soon as he told Circe who it was.

"The mentor is Victoria. And Vil's in charge of the visuals for the music video of her latest single. And… I think they're currently in the recording studio."

──ㅇ─────↻ ◁ II ▷ ↺───ㅇ────

Victoria giggled, gently patting Ellis's back and giving her a box of tissue to blow her nose and wipe away her tears.

"I didn't expect the song to touch your hearts to this extent…" her smile felt contagious, the gentleness of it all only made Ellis cry a little harder.

Juvia took a deep breath, wiping away her tears with a soft little smile."I-It can't be helped… The song's incredibly well-written." Juvia commented, trying to ignore the awkwardness at the realization of who was also in the room.

Vil was in the room. And he couldn't care less. At least, at first glance. Miren didn't admit it to anyone, but it seemed as though he caught Vil shedding a couple of tears after listening to the song.

Zen snorted."Haha- Sorry but-" he cut himself off, trying to fight back the laughter in his system."It's honestly kinda funny to see everyone in the room shed tears for Tori's song.." he wiped away a singular tear, snickering a bit.

Yuuta blew his nose and brushed it off with a confident smile."I could've sworn I saw Miren glance at Vil for a moment. Tell us, Miren, did he also have tears well up in his eyes?" Miren coughed awkwardly when asked the question.

"U-Um…" Miren stammered a bit, quickly noticing the scowl Vil sent him. As if to warn him that he shouldn't say anything.

It was enough for Victoria to know that the song managed to touch Vil's heart as well.

Just as Miren was about to answer the question, someone quickly opened the door, catching everyone's attention and taking it away from him.

Which was relieving for him.

Vil raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms."Circe?" He called out their name, confused as to why they were suddenly in the room.

Hearing the familiar name, Victoria audibly gasped and whipped her head to the entrance of the recording studio.

Circe was there. Right in front of her. After months of not seeing each other in person.

Standing up, Victoria felt unable to move for a moment. She felt her body go numb, feeling vulnerable…

She didn't like the feeling. Especially when it was in public.

But that's the least of her worries now. She didn't need to worry about it now.

With almost no hesitation, Victoria ran to Circe and pulled him into a hug. She was significantly taller than him, especially with the heels she wore.

Nevertheless, Circe smiled and hugged her back.

"I missed you too, Victoria…"

As everyone else was in awe by the sweet interaction the two were having, Vil was focused on texting someone.

Someone who will 'benefit' the production by a long shot.

──ㅇ─────↻ ◁ II ▷ ↺───ㅇ────

Tagging:

@starry-night-rose @authoruio @nem0-nee @windbornearchon @fumikomiyasaki @sakuramidnight15 @geminiiviolets @knights-escort @crazyyanderefangirlfan @twsted-princess

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