#heheh spooning. eheh

[aromanticares]

okay. not done. might send a few more sorry cupid. can u do transmasc gay and demigirl gay arisa icons, transfem intersex bi aya, he/they transmasc lesbian misaki, transfem intersex agender kanon, and butch lesbian kaoru? this is So Much sorry

sure thing!! never apologize for sending a million icon requests i love doing them! they just take longer sometimes (the spoons are not spooning)

[baby-iloveyou]

goodnight, you're so tight sleep tight

pairing: kang taehyun from txt x afab!reader (no gender specified) genre: smut (mdni) warnings: sub!taehyun, somewhat dom!reader, reader wears somewhat short shorts to bed, cockwarming, usage of petnames (mainly for taehyun: baby, tyun), light swearing, slightly perv? taehyun, teasing, dirty talk, unprotected sex (practise safe sex everyone), cumming in/on clothing, i got carried away with this eheh summary: after a long day, all you just wanted was to snuggle up with your boyfriend in bed and drift to sleep. he wanted something else. word count: 1.7k writer notes: like i said, i got carried away with this heheh. i originally was just gonna make this a short but sweet little smut drabble of idk 500 words? but then the ideas started flowing and taehyun made me horny inspired to write so. hope you enjoy this filth <3

taehyun was normally pretty cool. he was able to resist any temptations or lust that would overflood anyone else. but seeing you in the small shorts you slept in was always a weak point of his. 

you were heading off to bed, since you had had a long day and needed some well-deserved rest. taehyun also wanted to give you a well-deserved treat (and definitely not because he was incredibly hard), but you had already told him you were too tired to move even in the slightest.

which gave taehyun a brilliant idea.

“what if we do cockwarming?”

his big eyes stared at you, waiting for some sound to be uttered. a small grin also visible on his face, still waiting for your response. you smiled back, licked your lips and softly nodded, shortly closing your eyes. 

as you lay down on your right side, head almost melting into the pillow, you could hear the sound of blankets being lifted and moved, and some shimmying behind you. a warm figure appearing behind you, shoving one of his arms underneath your body, while throwing the other arm over it, his fingers interlocking with yours on your stomach. 

you stayed there for a few minutes, just spooning with each other, feeling so utterly in love with taehyun. that’s when you made the mistake of slowly drifting asleep, and being woken up violently with taehyun trying to rid you of your cute little shorts to replace it with his dick.

“a-ah, taehyun… was falling asleep…” you whined softly. the man who interrupted your sleep time softly kissed you on the crown of your head, and nuzzled his head into your neck. “sorry about that, just needed to get into you.” 

you were like that for yet another few minutes, until taehyun couldn’t sit still anymore. maybe it was the thought of you teasing him with the shorts, maybe it was the way you had been clenching around his cock multiple times since he was positioned inside of you, maybe it was something else. but he needed to move.

he started thrusting slowly, in and out of you. it caused you to hum softly, squeezing your eyes shut at the feeling. taehyun let out some huffs close to your ear, making you clench around him in response. “what happened to cockwarming baby?” you barely managed to get out in a soft whisper. taehyun let out another grunt. “you keep teasing me tonight darling, i can’t help it. you feel too good.” 

“teasing you? i’ve come home, got changed into my pajamas and told you we could do cockwarming because i’m tired. how is that teasing, tyun?”

he was still fucking into you, and you were now slowly starting to move against him as well, trying to get even closer to his body. taehyun was slowly fucking the tiredness out of you, and you felt like having your fun with him.

“those stupid little shorts of yours… that’s how you were teasing me… you could’ve - mmh - worn anything else but you - shit - chose to wear those to bed.” by how he was talking and how he was starting to shove his cock harder into you, you could tell he was getting closer and closer to being undone. 

“god, you’re such a pervert, aren’t you, tyunnie? i’m just wearing some random shorts to bed, and you’re instantly thinking of all the ways you can rip them off my body, huh? want to do so many dirty things with me and with those shorts, huh?”

if the shorts were already teasing him, this dirty talk was really messing him up. because every word you uttered was true. and he knew that you knew it was the truth. 

“mmph!” he grunted, as he continued penetrating you. he unlinked one of his hands from yours to move to your nipples, and played with one of them. he held it in between his thumb and index finger, making sure to toy with it and twist it slightly. 

“oh fuck, do that again.” you moaned, not expecting the action at your chest, and moved your head back slightly, exposing your neck to taehyun. he noticed and latched onto it, sucking the supple skin right underneath your jawline.

you were starting to enjoy the moment just a bit too much, but still aware of how close taehyun was to cumming. and because you were teasing him already, you could continue teasing him just a bit more. because isn’t that much more fun than just letting him finish?

you pulled your head away from his lips, detaching them from your neck. you let loose of his hands, which were still resting on your stomach. you separated yourself from his entire body, regretting it slightly because of the sudden emptiness at your lower area, but thinking to yourself that it would be worth it.

you could hear a small whine coming from behind you, which was rare - normally taehyun was the one in control, the one who would make you a whining mess. but tonight he was so desperate, so needy to cum, that he was whining at the loss of warmth around his dick. 

as you flipped over to face him, you cooed at him. “how cute, do you need my little cunt to cum? need to be inside of me, and plunge into the dripping mess that i am?” his mouth was agape, tongue hanging out slightly, and you could feel his dick pressing against your stomach, his hips softly thrusting into the nothingness underneath your blankets.

“i’m sorry for being needy tonight, please just let me cum!” you bit your lip, suppressing a laugh. he was so cute like this, all worked up simply because you wanted to be comfy. you could get used to this state of taehyun.

you removed the blankets, letting the cold air of the room hit both of your bodies. “fuck, it’s cold”, you exclaimed, “but i know how to get both of us warm again.” 

you sat upright, pulling off the shorts that were still resting at your ankles that taehyun had pulled down when he entered your private parts. taehyun’s big eyes - which were filled with desperation - followed your every move, the way your hands delicately picked up the shorts, and how they gripped around the fabric. the way you moved your hands, including the shorts, closer to his cock. 

“so this is what was teasing you all night huh? this pathetic bunch of fabric?” taehyun slowly nodded, slightly embarrassed because of his confession. his dick was still twitching because of you, because of your words. 

“cum in them then. make them all dirty for me, baby.”

his big eyes widened even more, first staring at you, then focusing on the shorts. he raised his arm, reaching for them, looking into your eyes to make sure this was fine. he licked his lips, the thought of you still wearing them after he had cummed on them turning him on an awful lot.

once he grabbed them, he was about to lay his dick on the fabric, when you stopped him. 

“put them on.”

the command made him bite the inside of his lips, tongue prodding the side of his cheek. he fully took off his boxers, and slipped on the small shorts. his thick thighs were on full display, and not only could you see his bulge, but also his tip which was sticking out at the bottom of the shorts. 

if an image was attached to the word ‘horny’ in the dictionary, this would be it. the way his cheeks coloured red, the way his precum was already making the shorts dirty, the way you were staring him down. 

his hand reached down to his hard-on, only to be swatted away by your hand. he looked up at you, confused as to what you were planning, only to gasp as you started palming his shaft. his hips automatically responded, humping into your hand, as you stroked his penis with slow yet controlled movements.

“mmfuck, am gonna… gonna do it…” he managed to yelp. he also sat upright, to then grab your shoulders with both hands, and lean against your frame as you were caressing him. 

“gonna do what tyun? normally you’re so well-spoken, what happened to that, hm?” your hand moved into the shorts, now holding his hard-on directly and stroking it roughly. “use your words, baby. all those years of education are gone to waste otherwise. we don’t want that, do we?”

taehyun felt unable to talk back, to respond to your filthy words. he was too close to spurting all of his white strings into your shorts, too close to seeing you put these on again after he came into them, too close to get distracted and lose the opportunity to cum. 

he moaned once more, before shooting his semen into the shorts. you pushed the fabric against his head and slit, resulting in the white fluid erupting through the shorts, and dripping down them. you resisted the temptation of scooping up the cum with your finger and making him taste himself, despite it being so hard.

taehyun collapsed, and fell back down on the bed on his back. a big sigh left his body, as he came down from his intense orgasm. you crawled on top of him, hovering over his body, making sure to kiss his lips before removing the shorts off his body. 

“baby, is this what you were thinking of?” you breathed, making sure taehyun was watching your every move. you slowly shimmied yourself into the shorts again, feeling the warm cum touch your skin. you spread the cum over the fabric, and licked the residue left on your fingertips. 

taehyun licked his lips, before uttering “jesus christ, you’re so hot.” and yanking your arm to get your body on top of him again. “thank you for tonight, y/n”, he said, as he lay his head back on the bed, and softly closed his eyes. 

“if you still want, we can still do cockwarming and fall asleep like this?” he prompted, and grinned. you reciprocated his smile, took off the now completely ruined shorts one last time, and sunk onto his girth with a soft grunt. 

“goodnight, you’re still so tight- i mean, sleep tight”, he said with a wink, before drifting to sleep.

[aeoki]

Made Me - Make You: Chapter 4

Location: Pretty Room Characters: Tetora, Arashi, Jun & HiMERU

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ< A few days later. >

Arashi: Let me introduce you guys ♪ This is my friend and the manager of this cafe ♪

…You’re not used to being referred to as the manager, you say? Ehehe, you’ll get used to it in time.

I should call you that since that’s who you are here.

Oh, right. I’ll introduce the three “Special Pretty Advisors” I told you about yesterday.

From the right, we have HiMERU-chan, Jun-chan and Tetora-kun ♪

Tetora: Osu! It’s a pleasure to be here!

Jun: As expected of Nagumo-kun. He greets people like we’re at a dojo~

Tetora: Heheh. I’ve got to give it my all since I’ve been chosen as a “Special Pretty Advisor”!

HiMERU: HiMERU feels the same way but…

Is the “pretty” part necessary? I think “Special Advisors” would have sufficed.

Arashi: Well, you know what they say: When in Rome, do as the Romans do, right?

If you’re entering the “Pretty Room”, then you also must be part of the “pretty” ☆

HiMERU: …………

I see. HiMERU has completely understood.

Jun: *Whispers* But you have the exact opposite expression on your face…

HiMERU: Sazanami, did you say something?

Jun: Don’t worry about it. Just talking to myself.

Um, Narukami-san, should we sit down and discuss things instead of standing around here?

Arashi: Yes. Manager, we’ll use the table in the corner.

Tetora: …You were right when you said we should see the place in person, HiMERU-san.

It’s more relaxed and easier to walk in compared to the photos, and it feels nice and clean inside.

HiMERU: You’re right. The tables are a bit squished together, but it shouldn’t be an issue if someone wanted to enjoy their time here alone.

Arashi: The cafe serves lunch sets at this time of day. You can choose the sides and drinks you want with the main meal.

Jun: Choose��? Woah, there’s a lot to choose from~

There’s the main meal, side dishes, salads… You can also choose rice or bread, huh.

I think I might pass out from hunger before I finish choosing everything. Ahaha…

Arashi: You should choose the “Manager’s pick” at times like those. How about this set?

Jun: Sounds good~ I’ll take that then ♪

HiMERU: HiMERU has finished choosing. What about you, Nagumo?

Tetora: I’m still thinking about it! I’ve chosen everything but the main meal~

I want to pick the marshmallow stew I’ve been eyeing but the napolitan looks good too.

Hmm. The curry with the fried pork cutlet also sounds tasty…!

Jun: Yeah. You’ll definitely need a good minute to think about it with this many choices~

It seems one of the good points about this cafe is that you can try out a lot of different dishes in one go. How about ordering more later if it’s not enough?

Tetora: Yeah. Okay, I’ll choose the marshmallow stew then!

Arashi: And I’ll get the hamburg steak pie. Manager, we’d like to order ♪

< Some time passes. >

Tetora: Ohh, the food’s here!

So this is the marshmallow stew, huh. There are burnt marshmallows floating in the stew.

It smells good… and looks delicious too!

Jun: Nagumo-kun, here’s a spoon and fork. And these are for you, Narukami-san…

Arashi: Everyone, ready? Let’s put our hands together and say bon appetit ♪

Jun & Tetora: Bon appetit!

HiMERU: Bon appetit.

Arashi: …Nagumo-kun, how does the stew taste?

Tetora: It’s good~ Surprisingly, the marshmallows aren’t that sweet and they taste great with the vegetables and meat…

It's actually a good combination!

Arashi: Ehehe. I’m happy to see you like it so much.

Actually, I’m the one who came up with that dish.

Tetora: Really!? You can do anything, huh, Narukami-senpai~ You have my respect ☆

I could eat this for days…

It’s a pretty small portion, so I’m gonna order more right away.

Arashi: Hmm. I guess it is pretty small for growing teenage boys, huh…

But if we serve typical affordable food that comes in large portions, then we wouldn’t be “Pretty Room” anymore.

HiMERU: You’re right. It’s important to fill your stomach, but you’d prefer to serve food that’s special to this cafe, right?

Arashi: Food that’s special to this cafe, hm…? Well, for one, it has to look cute…

What do you all think? What sorts of dishes would you prefer?

Jun: I prefer something more nutritious as well as something filling~

HiMERU: Yes. It would be even better if it also has a lot of vitamins and nutrients that are good for the skin.

Arashi: So something cute, filling, nutritious and good for the skin…? Is there a dish that includes all of those things?

Tetora: You can just make one. I’m sure you can definitely come up with something since you were the one who came up with the marshmallow stew, Narukami-senpai!

We’ll help you out as “Special Pretty Advisors” too…☆

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ← Previous Chapter ᠂ ⚘ ˚⊹˚ ⚘ ᠂  Next Chapter →

[zhongrin]

now that i think abt it, i think it'd just be easier to directly dribble water into the soil since that's the way i did it (as for not getting water onto the leaves, that could cause rotting). anyways! unless you count the fact that he sometimes wraps his tail around my ankle as an attempt to get me to stay or tries tugging me beneath the desk ahdhwjfn then i rlly dont mind hehe. so basically haitham hasn't made a lot of progress on his own and now needs a research team eheh ~Lycoris

ye i used a table spoon to just dribble the water to the soil around the leaves and tissued away any that got onto the leaves... sob my poor plant child....

hskdjskd now i feel like everytime i try to tend to a plant al haitham just goes 'no. leave it alone.' bc he knows i'm gonna kill them-

hehehe little distractions to remind you to take breaks!! it's good!!

yeah he's not exactly a scientist so... as long as he doesn't get tangled up with weirdos like dottore lol

"their kisses do taste sweet" hsjdlshd i know what you mean zhongli always tastes like the most fragrant tea

[undercut-mcqueer]

1 Markus/Kara I feel like they have a lot of lowkey potential lmao

i took my sweet sweet time to get round to this! but thanks for sending it in! markus/kara does actually seem like quite a cute ship hehehe

001 | send me a ship and I will tell you: karkus LSDKJFSLD IF THATS THE SHIP NAME IM-

when I started shipping it if I did: ngl i havent considered this ship before now! but thinking about it, it DOES actually seem pretty cute ehehe

my thoughts: cute potential!! i think they’d be hella soft together, and markus would make a good dad! especially since he WAS gonna be a dad in some of the concept art, and we were robbed :(( i think he’d be p damn cute with kara in all honesty, and kara is just a sweetie in general so she’d give mork all the love he deserves uwu

What makes me happy about them: both very soft sweet babies who’d make good parents!! and they’re both underrated protagonists, so they’d get the love and attention they deserve!!!

What makes me sad about them: they don’t get enough love and attention!! give them more love pls!!!

things done in fanfic that annoys me: they dont exist together in fanfics that much :((( kara needs more fics interacting with the boys and jericrew :(((((

things I look for in fanfic: cute fluffy stuff! i’d honestly love to read a fluffy markus/kara fic hehehe

Who I’d be comfortable them ending up with, if not each other: rk1k and luthara!!

My happily ever after for them: happy soft parents!!!! just let them both be happy and give alice a good life like she deserves!!! :3

who is the big spoon/little spoon: big spoon mork and little spoon kara. tho they’d switch it up if mork needed/wanted some extra comfort hehe kara would make a cute big spoon ngl.

what is their favorite non-sexual activity: i feel like they’d enjoy music! and i like the idea of markus teaching kara the piano sdjfsdfl i might just be saying that bc of karas theme and how perfect it is tho LFKJSDK

[thebirdohermes]

❣️ + shikamaru nara ~ rebeccaselfships

SEND ME ❣️ + A SHIP AND I’LL TELL YOU…     [   VOL. 2   ] 

feel free to elaborate as much as possible !

Thank you @rebeccaselfships !!! SRRY this took me forever to gET to I promise I did NOT forget it was in my inbox xD

* Who is the little spoon?

Keiko is the little spoon! They like being held by Shikamaru! Whether in bed or on the couch cuddling, Keiko loves being the little spoon!

* Who sings in the shower?

Keiko sings in the shower! They blast their favorite tunes and sing their heart out. Shikamaru can always hear them singing and likes to listen. He'll close his eyes while listening to them singing in the shower.

* Who plays pranks on the other?

Keiko LOVES playing pranks. They used to do it all the time with the guys when they were all in the ninja academy as kids. Keiko doesn't do too over-the-top pranks like they would do with the guys when they were all kids, the pranks they pull are more toned down with Shikamaru. And lots of the time the pranks are romantic in nature.

* Who is the one who listens to pop music?

Keiko listens to poop music and Shikamaru plays like he isn't into it but he secretly enjoys some of the pop tunes they listen to, hehehe.

* Who brings the other a random cup of joe?

Shikamaru will bring Keiko coffee because he's always drinking it. He will make a cup for himself and also pour one up for Keiko. Keiko appreciates it because they are also constantly tired from being up mad late.

* Who picks the cheesy movies for date night?

Both Keiko and Shikamaru actually pick the movies together. Keiko is a sucker for the sappy cheesy stuff and Shikamaru enjoys it too.

* Who is more likely to feed the other in public?

Shikamaru will offer Keiko bites of food when they've finished their meal or to have them try something off of his plate.

* Who gives the other random little compliments?

Shikamaru whispers random little compliments to Keiko throughout the day. If Keiko visits him at the Hokage office, he makes sure to take a moment to whisper a compliment to them.

* Who is always stealing food from the other’s plate?

When Shikamaru isn't offering Keiko food from his plates, Keiko steals food frmo his plates ehehe.

* Who is more likely to let the other borrow their car? 

Neither of them have a car, since they're in the ninja world. However, if they had a car it would probably be Shikamaru's and he would definitely let Keiko bothered it if they needed it.

* Who makes the list before they go grocery shopping?

Shikamaru makes the list. keiko is more spontaneous and could wind up buying unnecessary things while at the market out of impulse.

* Who makes sure the other takes their meds when sick?

Shikamaru makes sure that Keiko takes their medication and helps them when sick or injured from battle.

* Who watches sports and has to teach the other the rules?

Neither Keiko or Shikamaru are big in sports, maybe when Keiko was younger (also idk what sports are/were in Naruto?? it's been a while & i don't really consider the anime filler stuff?).

* Who pulls the other to their feet for a dance in the living room?

Keiko tugs Shikamaru to his feet to dance with them. Keiko will turn on some of their fave tunes (be it pop or indie stuff) and tug him off the couch to dance. Shikamaru enjoys it even though he complains lightly, it's just because he's lazy.

* Who has to keep reminding the other to hurry or they’ll be late?

Shikamaru is the one to remind Keiko over and over when they're running late. He may be lazy but he's a stickler for deadlines and important appointments.

* Who is the one most likely to get a tattoo with the other’s name?

This is so corny I hate and love it. But, I feel like Keiko would be the one to do this as something ironic and Shikamaru would just be like 'Oh, babe. Why??"

[babychantik09]

Baby Zephy Russie! wow 51 weeks ka na pla... nxt week 1 year old 👶🏻na! ambilis.. heheh But I think it has been 2 -3 months that I am quite struggling because you are not “mataba” anymore... pumapayat ka anak ko... and of course as a FTM I am really affected. Tapos isang araw bigla ayaw mo na mag pa Spoon feeding. ouch lalo ako na sad at napaisip. bat ganun?😔 magana ka naman kumain kung tutuusin eh pero hindi sapat.. kasi d mo namn nakakain lahat ng nakukuha mo sa table kasi may mga natatapon at nag tatapon ka pa ng foods huhuhu😥kaya gusto ko man pilitin na subuan ka pero baka hindi ka na kumain after that. gusto ko sana mag watch ka sa Cp habang kumakain para malibang ka at masubuan kita bigla pero is it really appropriate????? Am I being too selfish kc ayaw ko tlga magformula ka eh. ur exclusively breastfeeding. Pero dont worry if its time na kailangan mo na magformula dahil ang payat mo bebe... or ilang days nalng sasanayin na kita sa full/whole fat milk. and ask for vitamins na pampagana or pampataba go natin syempre. Hays sana malagpasan natin ang stage na to.. kc mahirap sakin.. syempre ako ang main attraction.. (ma ja judge kung baga ehhee) dahil ako nag aalaga sayo anak.. aruy josko.. iiyak nlng to. lilipas din ehehe... hays buhays.... Mahal na mahal kita anak.. sino ba nmn nanay na gusto payat ang baby diba. kc mas cute tlga mataba ang baby... pero pag malaki na syempre d masyado cute pag baboy na hehehehe.. love u so much Russie Zephy👶🏻🥰😍kaya natin yan! fight fight fight! (at Annex 35, Better Living Subd) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw7UqGRj27B1zWI7ehRKKhmFnzhEslHjggzNlc0/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=s52cw27z1rmp

[jinnieboo-blog1]

VIXX Maknae Line as college students

Continuation of another post. Hyung line here!

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

RAVI - (aesthetic here)

- majoring in music/music production

- idk about clubs, but I think Ravi would fit in with the baseball team

- because of that, he’s usually carrying a baseball bat around looking all swag and cool

- but sometimes people get scared of him and think he’s some bad boy when he’s really just a sweet guy

- always wearing leather jackets and other cool clothes

- messy dorm room and doesn’t really fix his bed in the morning, but it’s an extremely comfortable bed

- has a habit of waking up late and sleeping late

- likes to eat at fast food places

- loves partying, whether he’s the host, or he goes to one PARTYYYY ‘cause sometimes he’s the DJ and all

- you meet Ravi in a party that you and your friend, Ken, went to but because Ken was busy dancing and drinking, you wanted to chill and enjoy the music in a quiet corner

- Ravi, who is roaming around, having the time of his life, spots you and goes over like “YO ENJOYING THE PARTY?” and you’re like “YES, YES, OF COURSE” and he’s like pulling you to the dance floor so you hesitantly go with him

- he’s not a stranger to you because you’re close to Ken, and sometimes, when you hang out with Ken, Ravi tags along, but you’re really just acquaintances not friends

- and on the dance floor, Ken and Ravi greet each other so you’re like oh they know each other this will be fun, so the three of you dance and dance but then later on Ken has disappeared into the crowd but you and Ravi still dance

- and like at one point, you’re a bit drunk, he’s a bit drunk and you both just stop dancing but notice that you’re standing inches apart but becuase neither of you are sober-ish, you both are automatically pulled towards each other, and you two start to kiss

- and this kisses turn to making out and well the party was just fun and all

- the next morning, you wake up in your dorm room, not really remembering what happened last night, except for the part you and Ravi kissed s you’re like OMG OH SHI- because what if something else beyond kissing had happened

- so you’re nervous and not focused in class and during you’re free time by the bleachers, you’re overthinking and all until Ravi calls out to you cheerfully and you’re like OH MY GOSH

- but you smile and wave and he goes over to you like HEEEY he’s so casual and did he remember last night?

- then he sits next to you and you’re really nervous but then Ravi’s like “I really had fun last night!” and you’re heart starts pounding like whooaaa and you say “Oh...me too hehehe”

- so Ravi smirks and says something like “ we should hang out more often and go to parties together! It’s really fun with you! and Ken is fun, but then it’s really fun with you” and you kinda blush and your heart is all fluttery and you’re like “ that sounds...great!”

- so like you two go to parties together and have so much fun, but at some point, you start to think that what if he just sees you as a friend or is using you or like isn’t genuinely interested or like it’s just a fling-slash-friends with benefits kind of thing

- and then in one party you both went to, things got a bit wild(?) and the next morning, you wake up next to Ravi in his dorm room and you’re both in just underwear and whatever so you’re like GASP

- Ravi stirs awake and is like EY but you’re overthinking gears kick in like OMG WHAT IF IT REALLY IS JUST A FLING OR ONE NIGHT STAND but then you’ve really fallen for Ravi so like you tear up and he notices and gets flustered like OH NO WHAT’S WRONG? DID I DO SOMETHING AAH

- and you tell him how you’re scared that this is just a fling or one night stand thing and you don’t know what is going on with you so Ravi gently smiles (but it’s still a dorky smile) and kisses your forehead like “I never thought of it that way. I really like you after all”

- and you’re like ooooh really? and then Ravi gives you a peck and is like “Really” and it just makes you all warm inside and you can’t help but smile and that morning, you two just cuddle in bed

- all his friends are like awww cute couple and Ken’s like “technically I was the wingman so thank me hehehe”

- you guys are always going on fast food dates and on some mornings or afternoons, you go jogging in matching outfits and have the time of your life

- you also hang around and admire him when he’s making or composing music like DANG HE’S AMAZING

HONGBIN - (aesthetic here)

- majoring in either arts or film

- basketball team member and part of the photography club

- always carrying a camera with him, no matter where he goes always capture the memories ayy

- a lot of students have a crush on this dimpled cutie but then he’s just like ehehe thanks owo; the student who’s always polite and well-behaved, but deep down, he’s a savage and sassy bean

- likes to go to aesthetic places to take photos of, preferably white or pastel places

- likes to study on his bed with a cup of tea or coffee, accompanied by an earthy-smelling scented candle

- very meticulous with his things; like his handwriting is really neat and kind of small, he has a binder/folder per subject, color coded ballpens, etc.

- you meet Hongbin when you need some photos because he’s part of the photography club, and you’re part of the school’s newspaper committee

- like you head to the photography club’s room, but only Hongbin is there, so you’re like “Heeyyy, may I ask a favor?” and he’s like “Oh sure”

- so you tell him that you need pictures of this certain event and was wondering if he had some shots you could use, and he’s super happy ‘cause his photos will be used

- the two of you head to the newspaper committee’s room, and you’re the only one there because the other members have classes or other engagements so you and Hongbin sit in front of your laptop, and he gives you his USB or whatever with the photos, so you two start selecting and browsing the photos

- and like when you’ve gotten the photos you needed, you’re like “can I see your other photos?” and Hongbin’s like “Oh sure!” and you both browse through his collection and you’re like OMG YOU ARE REALLY GOOD

- Hongbin becomes flustered bean and shyly smiles and is like “ehehe thank you”

- you return his USB and thank him, and he politely bows and makes his leave but when he’s gone you’re like WHOA your heart’s beating because it is true that he’s handsome and kind and you were in the same room as him

- but then outside as Hongbin walks, he’s kind of flustered too because he thinks you’re cool and you actually complimented his photos and he’s smiling like a dork

- one day, you’re out and about, taking photos for a section in the school newspaper, and you’re adjusting the camera’s settings when someone from behind goes like “let me help you” and you turn to see Hongbin

- and he flashes a dorky but cute smile and takes the camera, fixing the settings for you and he’s like “that should do it” and you’re like “thank you so much” and you take amazing shots and you’re like “you really are good at this” and he just blushes again and shyly says thank you

- eventually, the two of you become a photography duo like he takes photos for the newspaper even though he’s not part of that club, and then you take photos with his help and tips too

- a partnership was even formed between the photography club and the newspaper committee because of you two

- you both just become close and bond over photography, going to cafes to talk about your hobbies, take random photos and editing them, etc.

- one night, you stay up late in the library because you’re editing the layout and pictures and whatnot, so when Hongbin drops by to check on you, you’ve fallen asleep

- because he doesn’t know where your dorm room keys are, he quietly takes you to his room and gently sets you on his bed

- the next morning, you wake up on NOT your bed and you wonder where you are, until you see Hongbin on the floor, lying on a thin mattress and throw pillows and you like kneel next to him and wake him up gently

- he has a sleepy voice which is sexy and is like “oh hi” and you smile like “thanks for bringing me here, but you could have woken me up so that you wouldn’t have to sleep on the floor” and he’s like “it’s fine, you looked really tired and your heart flutters because he’s such an angel

- so he sits up and sleepily smiles and like you giggle and fix his bed head, but then he leans forward and you’re like OH MY then he softly kisses you and you can’t resist so you kiss back; it’s a short kiss, but when you two pull away, you’re smiling at each other like dorks

- then Hongbin nervously asks if you’re free today because he want to take you out on a date and you’re like whoa really? me? and he’s like of course, so you agree happily

- when you two become official, people be lie daaaang lucky girl who gets Hongbin, and Hongbin is like “no I’’m the lucky one because I got you” and you tease him like “I thought you hated cheesy stuff” and he’s like “there are exceptions”

- you two like to have dates at cafes, aesthetic places, etc.; and like you’re the type of couple who takes candid or not-candid photos of each other it’s really cute

- he serenades you with the guitar too; plus, lots and cuddles in bed, shy kisses, nose kisses and spooning

HYUK - (aesthetic here)

- majoring in either computer science, computer engineering or something of that sort

- baseball team member along with Raviiii and is in the comic club, which also has a handful of gamers

- has a surprisingly neat room, but somehow still messy compared to Hongbin, N and Leo’s room

- may seem like the type who goofs off 24/7 and doesn’t do well in school, but he’s actually a genius and likes to read not just comics but also other books

- very funny like funny af bruh meme guy 

- the type of student who eats cereals in a mug, instant or microwaveable food, junk food in the dorm but is still healthy 

- students sometimes ask Hyuk for help when they have computer or technological problems because he’s that skilled and good

- how you meet? well, one day, your laptop crashed while you were doing a thesis, so you panicked, but then your friend Hongbin told you that Hyuk is good with computers and you should ask for his help, so you agree, and Hongbin tells you that Hyuk is usually under the bleachers

- you’re like what’s he doing there, but you still go anyway and you spot Hyuk reading a comic book while eating chips under the bleachers, and so you call out to him and he’s like “Hmmmm?”

- so you tell him that Hongbin said he’s good with computer and you need help so Hyuk’s like grinning and goes “That’s right. What do you need?”

- and you tell him that your laptop crashed while you were doing a thesis so you don’t know what to do now, so Hyuk takes a look at your laptop, but after a few minutes he’s like “I got it to turn on again, but I don’t think I can do anything about your lost thesis” you should have saved it every minute just kidding

- cause sometimes he doesn’t feel like doing stuff cause he tends to be lazy at times so he really wasn’t 100% in the mood to help you

- so you sigh and fight the tears of frustration because you’ve been working on that 40-something paged thesis for countless nights and then you thank Hyuk for trying

- but Hyuk has already noticed the almost invisible tears building up in your eyes so before you’ve completely left, he goes “Heeyyy” and you turn around and are like ??? and Hyuk jogs up to you and slightly smiles, taking your laptop from you like “I’ll see what else I can do”

- but you feel guilty for imposing on him, so you say “No, really, it’s fine” but Hyuk insists and goes manhyuk mode and is really assertive, so you’re like o-okkkk

- the next day, you get a text from an unknown number saying: it’s Hyuk! I got your number from Hongbin~ Can you meet me at the bleachers? I have your laptop!

- so you hurriedly go the bleachers and meet Hyuk under, and he has this huge grin on his face, and you’re like “What’s up?” and Hyuk proudly laughs like “I managed to recover your thesis file!”

- and you’re like “omg really is this a prank?” and Hyuk’s like “woman, it’s not April Fool’s today” and like he hands you your laptop cheerfully and decides to tease you like GURL YOU SHOULD HAVE SAVED IT IN A USB TOO”

- and you laugh, agreeing with him like YEAH I KNOW, NEXT TIME. but you sincerely thank him and say that you’d treat him out because you owe him, so Hyuk’s like OKIE!

- you guys go to a nice, simple restaurant but then it ended up becoming Hyuk’s treat cause he said he felt bad if you were paying, so he insisted that he’d pay for now

- and on the way home, you two laugh and make jokes and talk about school like you find out he’s a computer science/engineering major and are super amazed like that’s super cool

- and Hyuk is like NAAAAh it’s nothing big

- and days later, the two of you text each other a lot and even send silly stuff to each other and just have a good laugh, and before you know it, you’ve fallen from this man child, and Hyuk has fallen for you too, but duh he won’t admit it yet

- until one day, he texts you, asking if you want to come over to the comic club, and since you had nothing planned, you agree

- when you get there, only Hyuk is there, so you’re like “where are the other members?” and he says that their all back in their dorm rooms, but he wanted to stay and watch a movie or something with you

- so you’re like blushing and nervous cause you’re alone with Hyuk, but what could go wrong right?

- first, you two watch some horror movie and like Hyuk keeps scaring you and you keep smacking his arm in turn but then he’s not complaining because you sometimes hide behind his shoulder 

- then you then you read and make fun of the comics lying around and even reenact the scenes/panels 

- then you play video games like it’s really fun because you two keep competing to see who’s better and you’d both cheat from time to time just to win or get the advantage like the whole room is filled with laughter

- during one game, you win and Hyuk’s like NO WAY, so you two playfully argue which results in a tickle fight, but somehow, Hyuk ends up on top of you, and then you two just go quiet and stare at each other like he’s blushing, you’re blushing, your heart’s pounding aaaah

- until he decides to lean down and kiss you and you’re pleasantly surprised because you were expecting it to be rough and sloppy, but then it’s really gentle and careful

- he pulls away and gets off you and grins like the man child he is, and you chuckle and can’t help but smile back, so Hyuk tells you that he actually has feelings for you but he didn’t know what to do so he’s glad that this happened and you;re like ME TOO! so you sit (or straddle?) his lap and the two of you kiss again ahihi

- you’re just the cutest, fluffiest couple on campus like matchy matchy clothes, cute onesies, ice cream dates, cute kisses, movie cuddles, jokes here and there and whatnot

- it’s like having your best guy friend and boyfriend rolled into one <3

[sadisticsmiles]

Beyond a Thief’s Power Episode 18

Near but Far from Sight and Tangibility

  Four Months Later

~August 25, 2007~

           Inside an edifice at the top floor, there was an office for the chairman of the company. The lights were off, but the glow of the other companies and shops were illuminating its time of night. Said chairman was sitting in his special seat, staring outside the enormous glass window in front of him. A man with obsidian black hair and flint eyes sighed with irritation in his voice; the suit he wore was vertical striped soot in color with an amber tie over a white dress shirt; he wore charcoal gray socks and metal black dress shoes with thin, rust brown shoe laces. His hair was down, so he had a full set of bangs long enough to cover a portion of his eyes and the sides of his face, making him quite attractive for his appearance which did not have facial hair. His hands were overlapped/clasped superior to his thighs, and he was certainly not in a good mood that night. His eyes narrowed and his contemn gave him the will to speak.

           "Almost everything I've attempted so far has failed," the man muttered. "Many of my men have been captured and killed this year. Only a few of them, including myself remain. I was also unable to get to Sayuri Mitsuyoshi because of these diversions, yet I haven't a clue as to how my plans have been declining from success. Who on Earth is putting a stop to them? I need to find out soon. Her existence depends on the downfall of the owner of this sword at all costs, as well as the rest of the Black Foxes and my daughter-in-law. Or, should I say: daughters-in-law? Thus, the balance of Neon will fall and the only the world of Humans shall remain." He gazed down toward his left arm and a familiar long sword manifested out of nowhere like magic. A sword with a hilt with the shape of the number three, and its beauty displayed quite a few shades of brown. It wasn't every day that very color was known to be gorgeous and attractive in more than one way, but the sword alone was proof of a foreign aesthetic. A devilish smirk spread onto his exquisite visage. "Hehehe... Now, what should I use you for next? I've already altered this world to how I see fit. Everything and everyone that've been erased were quite... inferior to me, should I say? Yet the result of my actions and desires have been foiled by someone I don't know. It could be a group of fighters rather than a single person, but it doesn't matter as long as I can satisfy her. Hahaha. Ahahaha!!"

           The maniacal laughter that escaped from the man's mouth evidently represented his evil-minded plans and way of thinking, yet there was a striking tone to it. It may have sounded familiar and nostalgic, as if it had been inherited by someone. Could there have been someone like him—someone who resembled and was like an attractive man like he was, despite his age? Perhaps so, but who could possibly share this insane (?) man's characteristics?

           ... How frustrating it must have been to be almost a perfect copy of someone. Howbeit it was did not matter. After all, the next thing the man knew, a male voice spoke to him from the sword.

           You may have used my powers to rewrite this world into its current form, but you won't get away with what you've done. She'll suffer even if you try to destroy what's left of the world you were born in. The greed and obsession you have for her salvation isn't going to help her live any further than the time she has left. Your own feelings towards her will only supply her with surviving in the universe until her last moments. Don't you know that, you foolish man? In the end, you'll just go through a pain worse than... No. I don't need to say it when you've already become the person you are today. You'll be the one to lose against fate, anyway. It's ironic how even her father lost to it. And her mother went through the same thing many, many years ago in spite of the curse placed on the magicians. Don't get your hopes up. You've already lost the match.

           "..." The obsidian-haired man stayed silent for a few seconds before his sinister grin reappeared and bared his fangs and teeth. "Hehhh... Now I see. You're full of words and determination, but you don't have the strength to help the ones who are important to you. Well, well. It's too bad, Ains. You'll never see the day when you're reunited with your owner. Because... I'm your master now and you'll only listen to my will, whether you want to or not.

           No further answer came from the sword’s unseen spirit, so the night went on in silence from him.

           With a snap of the chairman’s fingers, he called out, “Hosugo, come to my office.”

           Shortly after a young man entered through the glass door. He appeared to be in his early twenties with a tall stature that matched Riki and Takuto’s heights, and had a neutral facial expression. He had raw umber hair reaching down to the center of his neck, a pair of light rectangular glasses, and iced tea-colored eyes. He wore a mahogany suit with a light salmon button-down shirt and royal purple tie which was tucked under the suit jacket, and dark brown dress shoes.

           “Yes, Sir,” the young man named Hosugo said. “What would you like me to do for you?”

           The obsidian-haired man turned around in his rolling chair with a stern gaze at his subordinate. “Find out who’s been putting my plans out. We’re falling behind in gaining control.”

           Hosugo gave a light bow with his head. “As you wish.” He walked out once his obedience was stated.

  Meanwhile, in Seoul, South Korea

             A man wearing a black helmet, and a full set of black clothes that were pretty light to wear—a zipped up jacket, undershirt, trousers [but no belt], gloves, and ankle boots with thick heels, sped through the city on a motorcycle of the same color as his outfit. On the back of the motorcycle, a trunk was attached—the type that was specifically added for food deliveries. It was also completely black, but was no doubt durable for the fast pace that blurred the shining city’s lighted surroundings. The intriguing quality to it was that it was shaped in the form of a loaded, medium-sized backpack.

           Soon—and very soon it was, the tall motorcyclist reached his destination. He parked the vehicle he rode in the back of a recording studio, which had an empty lot. It made him the only person to have any transportation there, but it did not bother him. He got off the seat and took off his helmet, showing his light tortilla brown eyes and his long cedar hair [which was slightly messy around the top but reached down to his shoulders neatly]. He hung the helmet around the motorcycle hand facing his left and walked toward the back where the backpack was. After picking the food container up and wearing it over his shoulders, he went to the backdoor, took out a silver key, unlocked the door, stepped inside, and shut it behind him; he made sure to lock it before heading to the recording area.

           The young man was in front of a midnight black door with a clear yet ambiguous framed center resembling a mirror glass. On the top of the glass were the words: Recording Area. Straightforward for where he was going. He opened the bronze doorknob that was on the left and walked in. Claire Fioré, the members of Multi-Star Clover, and the other magicians that made up the Hidden Resistance were there.

           “Yo,” Claire greeted. “You’re finally here. With our food, nonetheless.”

           Elizabeth smiled warmly. “We’ve been looking forward to eating together, Kenshi.”

           Kenshi grinned. “Thanks for the welcome, guys.” Without turning around, he gently pushed the door behind him with his right hand. He removed the backpack and placed it on the table, carefully taking out a plastic bag full of canned and bottled beverages first, then the take-out food which was in a large plastic bag which also contained chopsticks and plastic spoons. There were only five white plastic bowls of noodles in account for the Special Humans and Kenshi, as he set them down in front of the people who were about to eat dinner that night.

           “Man, jajangmyeon is superb as always when we’re in South Korea!” Claire exclaimed. “Accompanying everyone else is nice, rather than doing activities and jobs as a celebrity! I don’t miss the time I was one as long as there’s great service!”

           Kokoro glanced at the resistance leader from her right. She was two seats away from him since Elizabeth was sitting between them. “Mou, you’re living an easier life than people give you credit for with the Ministry of Finance in Japan gone, Claire.”

           “Ehehe,” the fiery orange-haired man laughed. “I guess my work load has slightly dropped since then, but we were still aiding the black Foxes from behind the scenes.”

           Kuruha breathed. She was sitting next to Kokoro, on the latter’s left side. “I’d say so myself about you. Even now, we’re still helping them out, but only Kenshi knows about us.”

           “It’s better that way,” Aaron replied. “If they knew, we’d be slowed down and wouldn’t be as efficient in dealing with the 14K.” He folded his arms against his chest. The suit he wore was a reminder of his former occupation as a government official. “Plus, Nao doesn’t either. If the 14K were to find out of her whereabouts, it’d be catastrophic. Mitsuki-senpai, Riki, and the rest of their alliance would also be in more danger than before—most likely captured quickly. Don’t forget about the fact Sayuri and Takuji would be given away as well.” He crossed his right thigh over his left one and tapped the floor with the tip of his black boot [that he wore on his right foot].

           Elizabeth giggled at the sound the teal-haired magician made. “You’re the most professional member of our team, Aaron. At the same time, it makes you adorable.”

           Aaron’s light green eyes shot a menacing look towards the leader of Multi-Star Clover. “Always the playful one here, you are. I should experiment on abandoning you for a while.”

           “Hey, now,” Kenshi smiled at Aaron, who was sitting a few seats ahead, away on his right. “Let’s not joke about these things when there’s so much to do. I admit we shouldn’t tell the rest of the Black Foxes and the whole alliance about us to prevent them from getting into immediate danger. We’re all trying to put in more than out best effort, after all.”

           Aikishi glanced at the sniper of the Black Foxes next to him with serene eyes. “That’s correct. We all have our parts in helping everyone.” He turned around and took a big marble tray with a white teapot which had a sparkling golden leaf design all over, and several matching teacups, using his hands. Then, he turned around once more. “Although humans have their own drinks, I should serve the magicians here with Neon’s honey and lime tea.”

           Kenshi kept smiling. “The ingredients are wonderful. You guys have plants that make the gemstone versions of many things.”

           His eyes narrowed as he entered his thoughts and watched the male co-manager of the girls’ group go around the area. I wonder if Mom is doing alright without me. I kind of miss her hot tea, but I have the Hidden Resistance with me now. I shouldn’t complain about these things.

           Kuruha glanced at Kenshi while stirring her noodles. “…”

           Meanwhile, Manjuki sat down next to Kenshi. She had a plate of Neon’s tamagoyaki and croquettes surrounding a bowl of plain ramen. Glancing at the human male on her right, she smiled faintly in her normal manner. “If you don’t mind, Kenshi, you could eat some of my food, but not the ramen.”

           Kenshi sweat-dropped. “So just the smaller dishes you have with you…”

           “Of course,” the purpureus-haired magician answered. A set of power white chopsticks appeared in the air near her bowl and she took them in her right hand.

           The cedar-haired man could not help but enjoy the sight. He finally took his seat and looked at the older woman in front of him. “…Just plain ramen without anything else in it is like you, Manjuki. All these years haven’t changed your tastes, and magicians have never eaten spicy food.”

           “You certainly know how to pull a dull joke on me,” Manjuki replied while meeting Kenshi’s gaze with her own. “It’s obvious we can’t for our bodies’ sakes, yet you point out our flaws.” Using her chopsticks, she picked up one of the croquettes and placed it on a small white plate that suddenly appeared on the left of Kenshi’s jajangmyeon bowl. Afterward came a roll of tamagoyaki.

           Kenshi looked at the small dish he had. “Thanks.”

           No reply came back from Manjuki as she ate in silence with Kenshi doing the same thing. The cedar-haired former firefighter continued in his mind.

           It really feels like we’re back to the old days when Manjuki was around. She didn’t interact much, but she was with us for some time before she became busier with work. At the same time, she exuded an aura like an older sister figure to Takuto, Hiro, and myself included. Perhaps it’s because she’s older than us, but I adore that about her. It was rare to have someone who gave even a tiny bit of encouragement by her presence alone, so being with her puts me at ease.

           Minagi ate her bread with a golden jam on it in silence and the other HR members gazed at Manjuki and Kenshi. Futaba and Aaron had tea together, while Elise and Aikishi were eating some sliced fruit (aka gemstones) from their world with silver forks.

  XXX

             It was also nighttime in Ginza and the group in Le Renard Noir were inside as usual. Hiro was standing in front of the room that Kenshi and Takuto used to reside in. Ever since the dawn in which the Human World changed, Takuto had moved over the room that was to the left of where this one was [from where Hiro was facing]. Hiro then closed his eyes and placed his right palm on the door. His head lowered a bit and he made a prayer.

           Please, he thought. Kenny, wherever you are… Please be safe. The last for months without you were my regret—my secret regret.

           He opened his eyes with wavering emotion.

           The women in our group and the rest of the alliance trust that you’re alright, but… I miss you, you know. I really do.

           Ibuki stepped toward Hiro with a calm smile. “Hiro, you’re diligent as ever for Kenshi’s sake. However, it’s still my room now, so I hope Sayuri doesn’t get jealous over this. A guy with a girlfriend shouldn’t do such a misleading thing, after all.” She let out a giggle. “Ehehe. I’m quite happy I get to live with you all, but I do wish Kenshi were here with us.”

  ~April 13th at 10:43 p.m.~

             Inside the Yanase mansion, Ibuki was standing near her bed. Her health had been much better that year and she was finally a high school student. Due to her past circumstances, she could not attend school; thus, she was homeschooled her whole life until then. The academy’s principal knew of Ibuki’s life so far, and was able to arrange for an exception in enrolling her. It felt as though miracles had been brought forth for her with ridding her body of illness and her main wish of going to school granted. It would also be a matter of time before Riki would ask about any love interests in her life.

           She smiled contently and let out a giggle at the thought of her older brother of ten years being even more overprotective of her. Their father was not around to check on them anymore, but it could not be helped for Ibuki to be lonelier than Riki. She only had their maid Kikuno with her for everything she needed. Then, her pink flip phone rang and the caller ID on it was her brother’s name. She instantly picked it up and opened it to answer.

           “Riki, what is it?” she inquired. “It’s late at night for you to call me.”

           Riki let out a long sigh on the other end. His eyes narrowed in a melancholic fashion to go with the simultaneous frown on his visage. “Ibuki… I know this is going to be tough for you to hear, but Kenshi’s missing from our group.”

           Ibuki’s innocent eyes widened with confusion overpowering her surprise. “…What?”

           “Sorry,” her big brother apologized. “It’s been a few days, but he’s not with us. I’ve… failed to look after him properly.” His shoulders fell in sorrow. “I was wondering if you could keep everyone else and I company, especially when it’s only you and Kikuno in the mansion. That way, it’d be easier for you to go to school with me taking you there everyday. I’m not the best person there is in the world, but what do you want to do?”

           Ibuki felt a budding growth within her—the loneliness she felt would be erased and she was given the opportunity to be with her older brother, Mitsuki, and the others who were currently in Le Renard Noir. She could finally have a family again after her hardships she endured.

           Without any hesitation, she closed her eyes, smiled, and nodded. “Yes! I’d be glad to go with you, Onii-chan!”

           The overflowing sensation in her entire body would not dissipate that night. She packed as much as she could and Riki picked her up in his car right after she was done. He had taken her to Le Renard Noir and she was welcomed without any objections.

             Back in the present, Ibuki’s smile did not falter. She was still jubilant to live with the guys.

           Hiro turned towards her, and laughed awkwardly. “Haha… You know how it is, Ibuki. I’m hoping for Kenny to return to our side by Christmas, if not soon! He used to stink up the room when he was here, but he’s a hilarious butt monkey to us.” He closed his eyes and placed his right index finger on his cheek. “Anyhow, Sayuri knows how I feel in regards to Kenny’s disappearance, so she’s completely fine with my daily routine of being here.”

           “Hahaha!” Riki’s younger sister laughed. “You’re funny, Hiro. Though, I’m positive it’s because you’re worried about him. Aside from you, there’s Riki, who cares for you all. Kenshi wouldn’t think poorly of you and the others for anything that’s happened. Knowing him, that is. But to think you used to be such a playboy back then makes it strange for you to date a young lady…”

           Hiro sighed. “I’m not that type of guy anymore.” He placed his hand over his heart. “Sayuri’s my true love!” Then, he gazed at the seventeen-year-old girl in awe. “Ibuki, you really know how to read people.” He gave her a smile. “Riki’s raised you well.”

           “Geez, Hiro!” Ibuki pouted. “I’m not a little girl anymore!”

           “Well, you’re still in high school, so you’re underaged,” Hiro jested. “You haven’t matured much, you know!”

           In her offended state, Ibuki went on with conversing with Hiro. The childhood friendship they had brought them into a teasing sibling relationship. Being roommates in Le Renard Noir was a nostalgic experience for them, and the group downstairs felt the same way.

           Rina glanced at Riki and smiled tenderly. “Ibuki certainly loves Riki and the rest of us.”

           “I can guarantee her love for him isn’t as strong as it used to be,” Takuto scoffed. “He may be her older brother, but there’s someone manlier than Riki in our group.”

           Takuto’s words struck a nerve with the former government official, who was now an LRN employee along with Hiro. Before Riki could argue, Atsumu chimed in.

           “Oh?” the bar owner said with interest, appearing from the kitchen. He had shaved his beard off on the thirteenth of April after everyone had finished their celebration for Taiga and Nao’s upcoming wedding. That very change attracted more customers, especially the ladies who came by, with his youthful looks. “Are you talking about me, Takkun? I’m flattered such a young lady would express any interest in my refined qualities.”

           Riki was instantaneously irate at that point. “As if I’d ever let Ibuki date someone over half her age! You’re not her type, Boss.”

           Takuto was repulsed but indifferent. “Ew, you’re disgusting even without the beard.” He exhaled afterward. “Can we call the police on his pedophilic tendencies?”

           Atsumu smiled drolly. “Relax, men. I’m only kidding. I have no true interest in any of the women here.”

           “So you like men,” Takuto remarked quickly.

           “Of course not!” the bar owner protested. “You’re making fun of me as always, Takkun. Nothing’s changed about you after all this time, so I would appreciate it if you didn’t twist things out of proportion.”

           “No frickin’ way,” the light blond replied. A smirk abruptly spread onto his visage. “That’d be no fun if I started to quit!”

           Rina glanced at her ex-boyfriend. “Takuto, don’t be so harsh towards Boss.”

           “Fine,” Takuto compromised. He turned his head towards his best friend. “There’s a replacement for Beardless right here.” His smirk came back as soon as he finished his sentence. “Looks like Hiro was right about you being a siscon, Riki. He’s as accurate about people as always, so don’t try to deny it.”

           Riki’s firm frown indicated his annoyance. “There’s no possibility of me being one, you dolt. I’m a perfectly normal older brother to Ibuki.”

           “Someone who loves his blood-related younger sister so much and is always butting into her business has no right to say they aren’t,” the light blond retorted, aloof as ever.

           “You little…” Riki’s eyebrows furrowed before he trailed off. “…It’s no use trying to argue with you, is it?”

           “Glad you understand,” Takuto said. He opened his laptop, which had been on the table he was sitting at. “After my last one was destroyed by Sayuri, this spare one from home has become durable with the information I need. Takuji told us we didn’t need to do anything, but who knows when we’ll be needed again after these past few months?”

           Riki gazed at Takuto, amazed at the programmer’s resolve. “Takuto…”

           Without moving his eyes away from his electronic device, Takuto asked, “What?”

           “Thanks,” the black-haired LRN employee said. “For not giving up.”

           “…” Takuto’s eyes narrowed. “Whatever. You may not be as leader-like as you were before, but it doesn’t mean you should just stop after hearing the orders to take a rest. However, you’ve at least become less workaholic.”

           It can’t be that simple for us to let whoever’s with Kenny to do everything, he thought. I can’t let my guard down in case something ends up happening. I’ve got to take another scan for any updates.

           Rina’s gaze on Takuto had not moved away for a while. Her eyes were filled with concern for her former lover’s determination.

           Takuto… she called out in her mind.

           Suddenly, an intense pain shot through her heart. She placed both her hands over her left breast and her facial expression displayed the agony she was enduring. She opened her eyes to see Takuto’s back once more.

           I need to go home before I end up worrying everyone, she noted to herself.

           Rina vanished and teleported back to the Tokuhara residence in Neon, collapsing on the floor in her room. On the other side in Le Renard Noir, Riki’s eyes widened. He had just seen Rina having a hard time staying in the Human World. Atsumu shot him a glance and shook his head.

           Not a word to Takkun, understand? Atsumu’s eyes were conveying the words he wanted to say aloud.

           Riki nodded, making sure not to disturb and catch the programmer’s attention. Gotcha. Rina doesn’t want to worry him, too.

           The wavy-haired brunet smiled. Shortly afterward, Mitsuki came in to check on the guys after folding the laundry in the room she shared with her husband. She smiled at the sight of the guys on the first floor. While there had been some tension before she came in, there was currently a sense of tranquility. She walked up to Riki and hugged him from behind, causing him to turn around from his right side and smile at her. Takuto was still going through the data stored within his laptop while Atsumu entered the kitchen to fetch some water for the others, excluding Mitsuki.

  XXX

             Ikebukuro was once a city that had people living in it. The people who had resided in it had panicked on April 13th after a news report had told of the new changes to the Human World, and fled to other cities or towns within Japan; some had taken flights to the other countries that were still in existence. People worldwide were shocked, astonished, frightened, and so on of what had happened. Billions of people, many countries, most of the continents, the seas were erased and the world had become smaller with only one sea in place of the previous ones. In truth, a couple of magicians were residing it the ghost city that used to be full of people. Furthermore, Sayuri was with the couple who had a shrine up ahead, staying in the family temple that existed after the Human World’s changes. The room the three of them were in was of course, a tradition Japanese one.

           A young woman with long, knee-length parakeet green hair and mauve eyes smiled pleasantly while standing. She wore a plain white kimono. “Sayuri,” she began, “how are you holding up?”

           “I’m fine,” the orange-haired magician responded. “It can’t be helped to stay in hiding with the 14K still acting up these days.”

           The woman lightly frowned. “Indeed. Finding Ains is a difficult task for you to partake in without the likelihood of encountering his immense power and placing yourself in danger.”

           Sayuri looked down. “We shouldn’t rely too much on Nao-san to aid us. Her powers alone aren’t enough for us to take on Roxanne Feris and her most trusted subordinate. The other members of the 14K are attempting to regain their former glory, but to take them down constantly is tiresome.”

           A young man with blood red hair and myrtle green eyes nodded. He was stoic and did not show any signs of altering his facial expression. He wore a black kimono with a smoke gray swirling pattern where his left shoulder and upper left portion of his torso, along with nearly half the corresponding sleeve. “The Human World drains our powers, but at least Ikebukuro has become a place where we can recover more than the spring you lured the Black Foxes to. The orbs gave some temporary means of healing Rina and now, Mitsuki-san. Nao-san’s connection as one of the third generation Great Family members to Kousuke and Asuka is merely someone who’s been around to take them outside the palace. Living without their parents around can be stifling to the blood descendants of the royal family; Haonowa-sama and Minato-sama don’t flaunt sentiments around so easily. Maintaining order is what a member of the Great Families should do. Rina’s a despicable exception, but not as traitorous as Mitsuki-san is. To abandon the duties and put a dent in dishonoring Neon is one of the worst things to do.”

           The magician with parakeet green hair glanced to her left without so much a movement of her head, but still had her smile. “Kei, some things have changed since Rina’s trial. You know that as well as the other magicians.”

           “She may be our family, but I don’t forgive her for being free to do as she likes,” Kei asserted his hatred of Rina. “She’s your cousin, but also my cousin-in-law.” He exhaled—it was a sigh, yet he was completely neutral. “I’m not soft like our king and Takuji. Kousuke’s too kind for his own good that Asuka is also nice to a fault.”

           The young woman replied, “It’s alright. Without Kousuke’s intervention, Rina’s existence wouldn’t be here now. The Great Families have a balance in Neon because heirs to the households must be alive. I don’t count as the head of the Tokuhara family since we’ve been split between two different main surnames from the start because of Shizune-san and Hajime-san.”

           Kei placed both his hands on his hips. “I suppose I shouldn’t put too much blame on Rina, but she’s still a lawbreaker, Io.”

           Sayuri gazed at the couple she was with and her eyes had a yearning look in them. “It’d be nice if you were more honest towards Rina, Kei. We all used to hang out together—you, Io, Takuji, Miyuki, Rina, and I. The six of us were together in high school, but we’ve all changed since then.” She paused before a small smile appeared on her face. “You and Io are a great couple, by the way.”

           Kei stared at his friend and said, “You’ve grown a bit softer too after your training and coming to the Human World, Sayuri. Must be thanks to your human boyfriend, whom you’re missing at the moment.”

           “Our objectives come before romance,” Sayuri answered; her smile had disappeared when she spoke. “I can’t let my feelings for Hiro overshadow our plans to stop Roxanne and her henchmen.”

           “Then, I’ll have to help with finding Ains,” the blood red-haired magician responded. “We shouldn’t rely so much on the previous generations of magicians to do more for us.”

           “Yes,” Io said with a stern facial expression. “It’s time to regain what’s been lost and end this long whirl of conflicts.”

           Sayuri’s eyes had an agreeing emotion as she entered her thoughts.

           Ains… Wherever you are, stay strong and don’t give hope. We’ll find you and take you back to Rina. I promise you that much.