#hikari yagami is a good character

[starmahgalaxies]

I cannot get over how utterly devastated Koromon is at the thought of being scary. Him? But he's such a lil' guy! Why would anyone think he's scary? First reaction to the human world is to have an existential crisis over how others perceive him. Honestly? Relatable.

Happiness. I just think this image is cute 😆.

New Task: Describe apartment buildings to little guy used to living around nature.

It's been, like, five minutes tops. Don't worry too much about it. You're not even supposed to be home. Taichi spends so long in front of his front door it's endearing. Wondering if his family had moved out and someone else moved in that won't recognize him... while the nameplate 'Yagami' is visible. It's fine child, I promise, lol. Open the dumb door.

Chugging a soda down because it's good and you just had a big fight.

Speaking of, I did do a double take. Is that Coco Cola? Legitimately and not some off brand because #notsponsored. I keep on looking and it looks like it could be a cursive A instead (so Calo Cola?). I'm just shocked to see it, and not like, some local brands or off brand or something.

Including this one just because 🙂

HIKARI MY PRECIOUS CHILD OF LIGHT!! You're finally here!

Girl was a toddler, how does she have a better memory over it than you Taichi?! (tbf, she was the one to spend the most time with him while Taichi spent the whole time trying to process what on earth was going on).

I cut out a lot of 'this is cute so I'm including it' pictures because I had way too many this episode. Over tumblr image limits many. These are already so long. This is the main one that survived the purge. Plus the one with Taichi and Koromon above.

Just know if you get on Yamato's case for being an overprotective brother I will call the hypocrisy out lol.

Yep! I can understand the assumption that well, I'm home so obviously everyone else is. I feel for him realizing chances are everything else went to shit back in the Digital World.

So, if she asked you (for her) yesterday, you would have said yes? XD

Me being serious but a little shit: How does it take so long later for you guys to recognize she's the 8th child?

Me joking: You mean the photorealistic monkey on TV?

You look dead inside ☹️

Hikari, you have had like two bites of food. You need to eat something so you can feel better.

I'm sure he will get a little homesick.

My favorite thing about this episode (besides Hikari and sibling bonding) is that Taichi sounds like he is trying to convince himself. To stay? To go back and find his friends? Who knows. The kid is incredibly conflicted and it's great.

Two siblings looking over from their conversation and going "Huh?!?"

He's bouncing and jumping all over the place, but with a lone image it looks like he is propelling himself with the force of his bubbles alone.

MY HEART! I know you will keep that promise but it's not wise to give promises you cannot keep.

Hikari is the best. She's one of the most intuitive for understanding the Digimon (and remembering in general), but right now all she sees is Koromon/Agumon leaving again and her brother needing to go back as well. She's a little girl who sees people close to her having to leave to someplace dangerous and not being able to do anything about it. She's not making a huge fuss yet she's desperate they don't leave her.

This is already hard time for her for that reason. She had to stay behind from joining Taichi because she was sick and wasn't at camp. Her parents went to check on her grandma, but she couldn't go with them either. She wants people to stay yet she's much to selfless to show that much to mostly everyone.

Hey, Hikari may be one of my favorite characters ever jsyk.

Don't worry, you're time will be soon too.

Overall comment: Love the muted color choices, which brightens up a little after the current distortion closes and they're back in the Digital World. Nice choice.

[ayukaze]

Fairy Tail Parfum (Japanese perfume brand) announced a collab with Digimon Adventure, with the products releasing early at the Digimon 25th Anniversary Exhibition set to begin in 2 days.

Details about the products listed on the website:

Taichi Yagami: This perfume inspired by the protagonist of the work possesses fresh and invigorating fruity notes which easily bring to mind the image of an athletic, cheerful and active Taichi. The change from an aromatic fragrance to a fruity sweet fragrance gives us a sense of Taichi's bravery, and how with his positive attitude he acts as the leader for his friends.

Fragrance: Fresh Green Note. Scent image: Top notes: Pink Pepper, Bergamot, Mango, Lotus. Middle notes: Cardamom, Geranium, Soft Rush (Grass) Last notes: Amber, White Musk, Patchouli, Cedarwood.

Yamato Ishida: The uplifting fruity notes take inspiration from the cool demeanour of Yamato, who also has acts with a strong sense of responsibility, bringing forth his wild personality. The last note, which changes to a calm fragrance with a lingering fruity freshness, gives us a sense of Yamato's inner feelings, who despite of putting up the front of a lone wolf, feels strongly for people he considers friends, which makes him a suitable partner for Garurumon.

Fragrance: Fruity Floral. Scent image: Top notes: Apple, Narcissus, Lemon. Middle notes: Jasmine, Rose, Bamboo. Last notes: Amber, White Musk.

Koushiro Izumi: The fresh and invigorating fragrance brings forth the image of a curious, intelligent and practical Koushiro. The change to softer floral notes brings to mind his adeptness at solving mysteries and how reliably Koushiro uses his knowledge to stand as the chief advisor among the members of the group.

Fragrance: Floral Ambery. Scent image: Top notes: Pear, Coriander. Middle notes: Cabbage Rose, Linen, Pink Lily. Last notes: White musk, Amber, Sandalwood

Jou Kido: The natural citrus note inspires the image of Jou, who is self conscious about his role as the oldest member of the group. The fresh fragrance lasts and as it dries down the scent changes, resembling the growth of Jou through his adventures in the digital world.

Fragrance: Sheer Citrus. Scent image: Top notes: Bergamot, Neroli, Ginger. Middle notes: Ivy, Oakmoss. Last notes: Cardamom, Tea Leaves, Sandalwood.

Takeru Takaishi: At first the fresh and invigorating fragrance evokes the image of Takeru as the youngest member of the group, who through this journey embraces growing up by developing a strong will and building up a sense of self-reliance. After the fragrance settles down, it leaves a fresh and lasting scent changing into something which gives a glimpse of the strength of Takeru's character, who never gives up, no matter what the situation.

Fragrance: Fruity Floral Scent image: Top notes: Apple, Blackcurrant, Cherry Blossom, Peach. Middle notes: Peony, Freesia, Pomegranate, Ylang-Ylang. Last notes: Musk, Cedarwood.

Sora Takenouchi: The fresh and soft scent of the citrus notes is at first glance boyish, but under it's layers it is easy to visualise a gentle and mature Sora. The change in fragrance with the addition of sweetness to the floral notes brings to mind the image of Sora, who is good at paying close attention to other's feelings and acts like an elder sister to her friends.

Fragrance: Floral Fruity. Scent image: Top notes: Honeysuckle, Grapefruit, Mango. Middle notes: Jasmine, White Rose, Cabbage Rose. Last notes: Musk, Sandalwood.

Mimi Tachikawa: The strong and pleasant fruity notes bring forth the innocent side of Mimi, who expresses all her feelings be it joy, anger or sorrow with a sense of purity, but who is also kind at heart and cares deeply for her friends. The change to floral notes, which are pleasant yet strong at the core, aptly shows Mimi's kindness.

Fragrance: Floral Fruity. Scent image: Top notes: Honeysuckle, Passion Fruit. Middle notes: Wild Jasmine, Cabbage Rose. Last notes: Sandalwood, White Musk.

Hikari Yagami: Using Lemon and Lilac as it's base, the sweet and refreshing fragrance takes inspiration from the mysterious atmosphere surrounding Hikari and her kind-hearted yet fragile nature. The change from the sweet scent of fruit to a spreading fragrance represents the gentle feeling she possesses towards all Digimon and her friends.

Fragrance: Floral Musk. Scent image: Top notes: Lemon, Lilac. Middle Notes: Blossom, Green Tea, Peach, Peony. Last Notes: Cedarwood, Musk, Amber.

And now, time to choose!

[seventeenlovesthree]

Digi Dynamic Shipping Game

Send me two names among the following 12 and I’ll write a short analysis post about them:

Taichi Yagami | Yamato Ishida | Sora Takenouchi | Koushirou Izumi | Mimi Tachikawa | Jyou Kidou | Takeru Takaishi | Hikari Yagami | Daisuke Motomiya | Miyako Inoue | Iori Hida | Ken Ichijouji

Whether canon provides input on them or not.

With SoMi having taken over my mind recently after the release of Adventure Beyond, I am genuinely thrilled to get to write about them again! Sora and Mimi are the main female characters for the majority of the first season of Adventure (before Hikari joins the group) - so you can bet that there is a lot of input on them! As I've already written a general analysis post about them, I may quote myself for the first section, because I don't think I could summarize it any better again:

Looking at Digimon Adventure’s main girls at surface level, it’s easy to assign them certain characteristics, simply because the series itself often hits you on the head with how Sora “is the adventurous yet caring big sister type tomboy”, whereas Mimi fulfills the role of the “easily overwhelmed, opinionated but good-hearted princess that needs protecting”. At first glance, that is exactly what they seem to be, since throughout the first few episodes/arcs, Sora protects and cares for Mimi, includes her in conversations, etc. They may not interact all the time, but whenever they do, they genuinely display concern about each other, despite their obvious differences that probably should make them clash here and there. This is not the case, however; Mimi, being the younger one, confirms that she considers Sora “a close friend” when the whole gang comes together to save her from Datamon. And eventually, once Mimi’s heart gets corrupted, it’s Sora who guides her back towards the right path of sincerity with genuine love, thus being the reason her crest glows for the very first time. So far so lovely and simple, right? 

It’s not until the viewer learns about Sora’s inner struggles - considering herself unable to actually love and thinking that she’s just acting out of obligation -, that one might notice a slight shift in their roles already. It doesn’t happen right away - and Sora being Sora still has a hard time NOT being the caring big sister/mom for everyone, including Mimi. But the more Mimi gets in touch with her own values, the more they get opportunities to spend time together, the more her sense of sincerity grows and her own caring nature blooms - the more the viewer can tell that she’s also (becoming) a person Sora herself needs. Because Sora is a character that needs to let go, to let others care for her as much as she (genuinely) cares for them. 

While the series does point out their differences, it usually doesn’t paint them in a light that makes one of them better than the other (unless it’s there for comic relief). Mimi obviously has her own mind - and cannot help but to speak it loudly, whereas Sora might try to rather keep things to and handle them by herself. For example, thanks to Mimi, they do come up with the idea to walk up Tokyo tower to look for the 8th child “from above” instead of wandering around somewhat structured - thanks to Sora planning ahead -, but still rather cluelessly. They complement each other - and the more confident and comfortable Mimi becomes, the more she is able to comfort Sora in return as well. And the more the series goes on, the more it becomes obvious that it has never been about choosing one side or the other, to fight or not to fight - it’s all been about finding a balance.

By 02 - and especially Tri - Mimi grows significantly more confident, whereas Sora’s own insecurities - about her choices and her future - kept growing through the years. Not only does Mimi love to tease Sora about her love life (and literally claims she'd envy whoever may end up marrying Sora for her cooking skills), but also mirrors Sora in the way she gives her both physical and emotional support whenever it's needed. Especially in the stageplay, they actually manage to talk about their worries a bit more openly - even if Mimi is the one who goes into detail a bit more thoroughly (as she always did), whereas Sora kept things a lot more vague (as she also always did). This is meant to show that Mimi is already ahead of Sora in terms of figuring herself out a little better - by allowing herself to try out different things instead of picking only one path. A theme Sora will continuously struggle with for at least a few more years. Deciding on whether she wants to stay a Chosen Child, whether flower arrangement is actually what she wants to settle down with, what it means to be Sora Takenouchi…

And since Mimi is in a more comfortable state with herself at the age of 21, after Sora had been protecting, encouraging and caring for her so many times throughout all these years - now she’s in the position to be the shoulder for Sora to lean on. Even if Sora may not (yet) be able to accept this kind of help and may continue to keep people at a distance for a while - Mimi will “always have her back”. And that’s what these two provide for each other - one way or another.

Whether I think why and how they’d work.

In case you haven't noticed, I am completely and utterly obsessed with how wonderfully Sora and Mimi complement each other and I'm not even sure if I could do all of these wonderful aspects justice. First of all, there is the whole flower analogy going on - with Sora assumably having quite an ambivalent relationship with flowers, due to her mother wanting for her to get more into flower arrangement (and "be more feminine") herself. Then there's Mimi, whose partner is a literal flower, who basically represents the flower who - as mentioned above - bloomed into a confident woman thanks to Sora caring for her and enabling her growth! There is such a bittersweet irony in this, because, even if Sora doesn't let Mimi in most of the time, Mimi is - in my opinion - the one person absolutely capable of plucking the thorns in Sora's heart simply by being her own self. Without belittling, without changing her - just by asking her to "spread her wings freely".

Which brings me back to the question of whether and why I think they'd work - because among all the shipping wars that have been going on for decades now, I truly and genuinely believe that these two girls are the BEST (healthiest, most plausible) choices for one another.

Mimi, in my opinion, is one of the most queer-coded characters in all of Digimon Adventure as a whole (and basically, as far as my interpretation of their behaviour is concerned, she managed to make both Miyako and Meiko fall for her). So if there's one thing I am thankful for in regards to Tri (onwards), it's how consistently Mimi is pining for Sora. All the hand-holding, the hugs and general physical closeness and mutual reassurance, the comments about "envying Sora's future husband"... Sora usually disregards comments like that and tries to deflect from every kind of relationship teasing - and has done so ever since one of the 02 dramas -, which... Once again leads me to the "gender (and sexuality) dysphoria" headcanon I conducted a while ago. Without going too much into detail again, to sum it up shortly, her attempt to rekindle with her mother and her complicated relationship with Taichi and Yamato may have resulted in both: her experimental fashion phase and her comp-het phase. (Meanwhile, you have Mimi, who never showed interest in pursuing a romantic relationship, who may or may not have assumed that Sora had a crush on Taichi and started wearing the star motive at age 13 to get Sora's attention - and she always loved getting attention from redheads after all, but hey, that's just a theory...) In the end, it gets all too much for Sora, making her feel caged and she ends up self-distancing from everything to "figure herself out".

In my an ideal world, the aftermath of Kizuna may lead to Sora finally confide in Mimi - and thus, Mimi's long-term patience may eventually result in them talking things out, being honest, open, vulnerable, spending more time together... Making Sora FINALLY realize that she can choose her clothes and style for herself freely - and that the same also applies to the person she wanted to be and felt most comfortable with. Without having to conform, without having to strictly follow rules and expectations... (I mean, they also wore matching colours in Beyond, so somebody HAD to initiate the partnerlook colour scheme at some point, especially if you take into consideration how different their clothing styles generally are!)

Long story short - I want them to be embarrassingly sappy yet badass girlfriends who follow their dreams, traveling the world and through digital gates together alongside their partners and friends, cooking, designing, selling, going on takoyaki dates, whatever their hearts desire - while supporting each other unconditionally. Mimi had always been her most selfless, open and patient self when it came to Sora, she's being grounded and stabilized by her - and as outlined above, I believe that the same goes the other way round. Because after all, Sora's own flower cannot properly bloom by herself (or rather: her inner bird that yearns to be free cannot fly properly). She may have needed the time on her own, but she also needs and deserves love, care and affection to discover that her true self, her own middle ground, had been buried inside her all along. And that another flower may have been needed to share her light, water and other nutrients with her to realize it...

Whether I’d prefer them as platonic or romantic ship.

I really don't think I could have made it any more obvious that I adore them as a romantic ship. They're one of the Digimon Adventure relationships that leave a warm and fuzzy feeling in my chest - and I feel like the series forced them to stay in the closet for long enough already with all the ship teasing, so Beyond felt like a very refreshing take). Of course I could also live with the idea of them just being close (long-distance) friends, especially since I also ship both of them with other characters (with Mimi usually being the "aro lesbian with bisexual tendencies (tm) experience" and Sora being happily bi-/pansexual). But I still believe that they could make each other exceptionally happy.

[tobiasdrake]

YES! Digimon Adventure 02, my favorite *starts rubbing hand together* i'm going to be so obnoxious.

Anyway since you're done with Adventure could you rank the Chosen Children up to now? I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts.

Let's see. Chosen Children from Most Favorite to Least Favorite, since I don't actually have any I dislike.

1 - Tachikawa Mimi. I'm sure there are no surprises about that one. Mimi's job is to be the relatable everykid. The one who acts the most like what an actual real-life ten-year-old thrown into this situation would act like. She cries, she screams, she wants to go home.

But she still pulls it together and has a lot to contribute all the same.

All of the kids do a great job of being relatable, honestly. But Mimi has the most interesting journey to me,

2 - Kido "Joe" Jou. You know, as a kid, I adored Yamato so much. He would have been my #2. But as an adult, I can't help but appreciate how hard Jou-senpai worked at the mostly thankless job of trying to be responsible for these kids.

He's just as scared and confused and lost as they are, and in the beginning the burden of responsibility weighs so heavily on him that it nearly breaks him. But he rises to the challenge. Even after they decide Taichi is officially team leader, Jou is always looking out for them, always trying to guide them as their senpai nonetheless.

Jou giving his life to save Takeru is my favorite Crest activation of the lot.

3 - Ishida "Matt" Yamato. He's still up there, just not as high as Jou. Yamato is the most damaged of the Chosen Children at the start, though it may not be immediately obvious. He comes into the series with more baggage than anyone. He's already carrying his parents' divorce on his back and emotionally spiraling down a defensive rabbit-hole before we even know his name.

Yamato isn't capable of being a selfish person, and that much is on display left and right. His kneejerk reactions are almost always for the betterment of the group. He can't help himself but to care about everyone else. But he's so messed up that he thinks that's a character flaw. Who he is and who he wants to be are miles apart, and who he wants to be kinda sucks so that's a good thing.

4 - Takenouchi Sora. Sora's carrying some damage on her heart as well. She's similar to Yamato, in that there's a stark disconnect in her character. Not who she is vs. who she wants to be, but rather who she is vs. who she thinks she has to be.

I love how much attention her dynamic with her mom gets in the Vamdemon arc. Sora has the most interesting and dramatic home situation out of any of the kids.

But it does feel like the show starts to de-emphasize her over time, particularly in the Dark Masters arc where Sora routinely has to be protected or saved and rarely gets to be the one who looks cool. Whether she's propping up Takeru, Hikari, or Yamato, Sora often ends up taking a backseat as the series draws closer to its conclusion.

5 - Takaishi "T.K." Takeru. I didn't actually like T.K. as a kid. He just seemed like an annoying little kid. But that's because of the dub downplaying his growth and his strength. Ironically, Takeru is probably the one of the original seven who already has his shit together the most from the start.

He's innocent, naive, and abhors violence, but he's not a helpless baby either. Takeru is resourceful, strong-willed, and contributes as much as anyone to the children's survival. Which is, itself, a key factor in Yamato's arc as much as his own.

6 - Yagami "Kari" Hikari. Hikari suffers tremendously from entering the series so late. She has very limited opportunities to shine, something that 02 will help her with.

She makes good use of what she gets and has a lot of great moments nonetheless. Granted, she's a little bit deus ex machina-ey, but she's literally the Light of the Eight Gods so we can forgive her for that.

7 - Izumi "Izzy" Koushiro. He made my kid cry.

No, I jest. Koushiro's in a rough spot where, as the computer nerd of the group in the Digital World, he has to try and walk a tightrope between "Koushiro OP plz nerf" and "It feels like Koushiro should be doing more."

It's not a tightrope he walks easily. He gets off to an interesting start as he's building out his understanding of the Digital World. But that kinda reaches a head at Etemon's pyramid and after that he just starts leaning on stuff Gennai gives him.

Once the setting is well-established, we don't get to see him do cool things like writing a program that will display a holographic map of Etemon's pyramid in physical space anymore. Gennai gives him all of his tools going forward and he just... sorta becomes the Pokedex.

8 - Yagami Taichi. He yelled at my kid for grieving dead friends.

That's less of a jest. More generally, Taichi has a lot of good points. He's the one who keeps his eye on the ball during the Dark Masters arc and keeps pushing forward while Mimi, Jou, and Yamato are having their respective crises. He's usually the guy you want to lean on in a crisis.

But wow, can Taichi be insufferable at times pre-development. He's reckless, self-centered, occasionally sexist, and utterly insensitive to the thoughts and feelings of others.

Taichi is a wild card. You never really know if you're gonna get "gets everyone caught by Etemon because he thought it'd be funny to cause trouble" Taichi or "pulls this team back together after they split up" Taichi.

Though meeting Homeostasis near the end and hearing the background of their adventure seems to do wonders for Taichi putting all of this to rest and becoming an emotionally stronger leader.

[otakween]

Digimon Girls Festival (Image Songs)

It's been awhile since I've done a post about "audio-only" Digimon media. Digimon has so many of these!! If you're curious this site seems like a good place to see all the info about the albums out there. Digimon-Basic is where you're going to want to go if you want to download the albums, but most of them are on YouTube too. I gotta say, this fandom is nothing if not super well documented! I'm impressed.

Loving the cover art for this (why do they all look like they're going to different parties though?) As you can see, this is a collection of image songs for all of the girls from Adventure, 02, and Tamers. No Frontier, unfortunately :'( With most anime, characters get 1-2 image songs, with Digimon they get like 5 for some reason (spread across different albums).

Image Songs

Ruki Makino - My Style (Listen here subbed)

A very fitting song for Ruki in terms of the edgy rock n roll style and her singing about wanting to stay true to herself. I found her singing about wanting wings to be pretty random though. I feel like they just stick that in anime songs cuz it sounds cool lol (I think one or two of the other image songs talked about wanting wings).

Favorite line was "I don't want to imitate anyone, I want to be me." I feel like what Ruki is struggling with is that she does care what people think of her a lot (hence her angsty facade) but really wants to break free of that and be her true self.

The lyrics were kinda poorly translated grammatically, but I've tried to translate Japanese song lyrics before...it's super hard. I feel like some things just end up sounding dumb in English and it might be better to go the localization route instead of direct translation (if this were an official thing).

Miyako Inoue - Yamato Nadeshiko Panic (Listen here subbed)

Damn, it's a good thing I know what a yamato nadeshiko is or else this song would seem pretty weird. The subber decided to translate yamato nadeshiko as "japanese woman" which...sort of makes sense but it leaves out so much context. To be fair...it's a tricky one (as I said in the previous bullet, translaton is hard!)

Anyways, this song wasn't super interesting. It was basically Miyako singing about how she wants to be an elegant, "ideal" woman. Low key trad wife vibes lol Nothing wrong with wanting to be a good wife/partner, it's just not something I relate to 😅

I feel like I never fully got a grasp on Miyako's character. The only thing I remember is that she was a fangirl and kinda boy crazy. There was an episode about how she's really outspoken I think?

Sora Takenouchi - Sky-Blue Wind (Listen here subbed)

It seems like a lot of these songs are about not being honest with yourself. It's all very Japanese lol. Sora is singing about putting on a brave face for the sake of her friends. I guess that's fitting since we did see her run away when she was upset in the anime.

She sings that she "likes her role" as the optimistic one...reminds me of Ted Lasso and Waymond from Everything Everywhere All At Once. I can't tell if this kind of outlook is admirable or deeply unhealthy.

Shaochung Lee - My Future (Listen here subbed)

This one was disappointing because I liked Shaochung. It was a super unimaginative song about Shaochung wanting to grow up. Like...I guess that makes sense, but it's a very obvious and lazy choice (with her being the youngest). Maybe she could have sung about her relationship with her brother or Lopmon/Terriermon?

I did think the "I can't see the after-10pm world" line was pretty cute/clever

Hikari Yagami - Reflection (Listen here subbed)

According to fandom wikis, this is a response to the Takeru song Focus which I wrote about here. I still feel weird about these two songs. Why would they depict Takeru and Hikari as a couple when that wasn't in the source material (imo)? I don't remember the 02 epilogue saying anything about them being together! Maybe the image songs aren't canon lol

There's something funny about Hikari calling Takeru's eyes beautiful when I just picture them as generic anime eyes. I guess blue eyes would be something to sing about in Japan. (I actually think Hikari's light brown eyes are prettier).

Juri Katou - The Color of Someday (Listen here subbed)

Sheeesh this one was dark (I mean...to be expected). It sounded to me like Juri was singing about being depressed and anxious, unsure how to live a "normal" life. The color in the title refers to that "normal" future that she wants to achieve.

A lot of the song seemed to be about masking and being afraid to show any vulnerabilities to the world. She also says she doesn't understand what love is or how to love (probably cuz of her crappy parents).

Looking back on it, I kinda wish they had foreshadowed Juri's darker side better in Tamers. She started out as such a goofy, comic relief character that her breakdown felt less real to me (also, I cared less because my brain had already categorized her as "generic background comic relief girl."). If they had shown a tiny hint of a crack in her facade sooner, it probably would have made her more interesting.

Good morning/Goodnight Calls

(These should be easy to find, they're in the same playlist as the videos above)

I don't really know what the point of these are, going to be honest. The album contains random voice lines (around 20 seconds each) of the girls saying good morning and goodnight. It reminds me of those Vtuber voice packs. Personally, I'm a big fan of Japanese oddities like this, but they seem very niche.

I thought the appeal would be to pretend that the characters are talking to me, but in the first voice clip Ruki is addressing her grandma...guess I could pretend to be her grandma lmao

Okay, Sora's wake up/goodnight call literally sounds like waifu bait (very breathy)...which is strange considering she's an elementary schooler. Who was this made for?

Some of these would make decent alarm sounds, if you're into that sorta thing. I think it would get very annoying very fast to have an anime girl yelling at me first thing haha

Sora and Miyako's were so vague and general that they could have been from any series. No mention of digimon or anything like that.

Why is Mimi showing up now but didn't get an image song? Wasn't she the singer of the group!? (Her voice lines were very shrill, my ears are bleeding lol)

Hearing cheerful!Juri after listening to her song feels...uncomfortable

I wonder if these were just improv'd on the spot. I want more backstory.

[bluestarjay]

I love trans headcanons sm guys !! I think I do a lot of projecting with them bc I'm trans lmao but uhhh here's a list of my top 10 hcs for trans characters in no particular order!!

1. Hinata shoyo (haikyuu ftm)

2. Jay Walker (ninjago ftm)

3. Peter Parker (marvel ftm)

4. Nya Smith (ninjago mtf or ftm theyre both so good)

5. Rin okumura (blue exorcist ftm)

6. Kenma kozume (haikyuu genderfluid or nonbinary both really good)

7. Plum pudding (strawberry shortcake mtf, canon 😝😝)

8. Lloyd garmadon (ninjago ftm)

9. Elliot Thomas (my oc ftm)

10. Takeru Takaishi (digimon genderfluid)

Bonus, Hikari yagami (digimon mtf)

[hikaritakaishi]

Takari Week 2024 - Day 2: Second Year

Days: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

Title: Invisible [Prologue II] (Second Year)

Characters: Hikari Yagami, Takeru Takaishi, Taichi Yagami, Yamato Ishida.

Summary: It takes time to find our place. And sometimes that place isn't a place, it's someone. And even if the castle falls, we can always put the pieces back together and build it again.

Note: A collection of stories that gives us an insight into Takeru and Hikari's relationship over the years. It was really hard to put all the prompts explicitly in the story, so I tried to metaphorize some of them, in order for them to make sense at the end.

It is composed of two prologues, one for Takeru and one for Hikari, exposing events before 1999. And a final epilogue, summarizing all the feelings exposed in the previous chapters. In the intermediate chapters, we follow all the challenges that a long-term friendship has to face when it becomes a romantic relationship, and how we form solid and permanent bonds with the ones we love the most.

・。。・゜゜・。。・

She waved goodbye to her classmates from the bottom of the street and continued alone to the cluster of buildings where her house was located. It was Friday, finally.

She felt exhausted. Not physically, but emotionally. I mean, physically too, but not as much as emotionally. Her legs felt heavy, but her heart was feeling even heavier. What a suffocating week.

Several trips to the doctor later, and successive hospitalizations over the years made that physical weakness something customary to her. Casual almost. She was breathing heavily. Each step felt like a different kind of torture. And the worst of all, no one could tell her if she is ever going to be perfectly recovered.

Would she ever be healthy?

All of that caused her an almost constant absence at school. Treatments, days she could barely get out of bed, leaving classes earlier because she felt dizzy, tired, exhausted. Was impossible for her to make real friends. She barely knew anyone in her class. It's not like they ignored her, but they simply had no time to create a bond with her. A real connection. It was not something that was allowed to her.

She had no idea what they liked to talk about. What kind of games they liked to play. She felt out of place. Constantly. Most of them had good intentions, they were good kids, and they cared about her. But time. Nothing pays for the time we spend creating something with someone. It is rarely spontaneous. 

Time was cruel. And ironic. Hikari felt that no amount of time would be enough to heal that wound.

“I am home. “

She tried to sound as normal as she could.

“How was school, dear?” Asked her mother as she saw her cross the hallway.

“Great!” She faked a weak smile. “I just have a lot of homework to do.”

“I see. You must catch up the rest of the class. “

“I am trying my best…”

She went to the bedroom she still shared with her older brother and closed the door. She placed her backpack on her desk and sighed. Another day has passed, and no progress has been made. She took three steps back and fell back onto the bed.

Would it ever get better?

・。。・゜゜・。。・

“Hikari! I have a surprise for you!”

Taichi’s voice sounded like an alarm clock to her.

She was at the dinner table finishing some schoolwork when he approached her. He came near her and stood by her side, irradiating confidence.

It was a sweet and warm Sunday morning, and she didn't expect her brother to wake up so early. He had football training on Saturday and usually rested until lunchtime on Sunday.

Today was not the case.

Taichi had woken up early and she had heard him on the phone with someone shortly after waking up. He wasn't exactly… careful with the noise he made or the tone of voice he used, so he ended up waking her up unintentionally.

“Guess who's coming to visit!”

She blinked. No idea, she thought. Taichi had so many friends that it was impossible to predict. School friends, football mates, neighbours… unlike her, he had unbelievable social skills.

“Sora?”  She finally guessed. He loved spending time with Sora, so it sounded like a plausible possibility.

“Oh, no, not Sora. Do you have a second guess?”

“Ah… not really.” She looked back at what she was previously doing.

“Yamato!”

“Oh, I see. “She said unsurprisingly.

 Yamato was a regular visit as well; he often came to play with Taichi or do some homework. Although they had some conflicts in the past, it seems that now they have learned to be best friends and support each other in every possible conceivable way.

“…and… Takeru is coming along!” 

“Really?” She got up from the chair where she was sitting. “Is he really coming?” Her eyes were like stars, bright and clear.

“Now I captured your attention!” Taichi let out a genuine laugh of delight before continuing. “They are coming after lunch. Me and Yamato have some homework to do together, and since Takeru is in Odaiba, we thought that it would be nice for you two to see each other again.”

“I don’t see him since… “

“Yes, I know. I am glad you still remember him. And I can see your enthusiasm!”

She never told anyone about it, but Taichi knew how hard it was for her, not to be able to make friends. He knew how wonderful his sister was, and he knew how cruel life had been to her. She was kind, honest, and caring, she just needed an opportunity. She just needed to be seen for who she really was.

And how could she forget about Takeru?

Everything that happened was still fresh in her memory.

The laughter, all the tears, the fear.

The way they had to act like a team to survive. The way he did not let her down and cared for her, even though he barely knew her at the time. They clicked so naturally. It had never happened to her before. Time did not mean a thing for them. 

But did he remember her, the way she remembers him?

・。。・゜゜・。。・

“So…” She said shyly “Do you want to solve a puzzle or build a castle with some blocks?” 

“Oh, I love building blocks!”

“Great, me too!”

Despite everything that happened, they were still kids. They were still nine-year-olds. Who wanted to play, to laugh together and to forget their problems that seemed bigger than them.

“So, you decided to build a castle!”

Taichi’s voice sounded loudly in the living room. He looked like he had come to get something to drink from the fridge. He was in their parent’s small home office with Yamato doing schoolwork.

“Do you want something to drink as well, or to eat? It will not take us too long to finish but you can have something now if you want.”

They shared a look.

“We can wait for you!” Takeru said.

“Yes, we can wait!” 

Taichi smiled and went inside the room again.

He felt very content. Hikari never brought a friend home to play. And he was overjoyed by that little achievement of hers. It finally seemed like she was enjoying sharing a moment with someone.

Some time had passed, and they had made a lot of progress on that castle. It was almost as tall as them.

“Oh…”

Takeru couldn't say anything more; after touching one of the blocks at the top of the castle and seeing them all fall to the ground, one by one.

He blinked nervously and looked at her in the eyes. He had screwed up, he thought.

“I… am sorry, Hikari.”

She smiled.

He couldn’t believe it, but she just smiled sincerely and started to collect the blocks again.  Wasn’t she even a little upset? After all the effort they put into building that castle.

“It’s ok.” She said after a few seconds. “The base was fragile, you see. If we want to build one that would not tremble so easily, we must focus more on the base next time!”

“Ah… sure.” He answered a little insecure. “But… It was my fault that…”

“Oh no!” She stopped him. “If anything, it was OUR fault. Because we built it together. And we can always re-build it again and again…” She continued collecting the blocks.” Until it’s perfect!”

“You are… right. We can always build it again…”

“That’s the spirit!”

Their brothers, who had heard the blocks castle falling moments before, were near the door listening to the conversation, exchanging the most genuine sights of pride.

They knew that those two kids would grow up to be wonderful adults if they maintained and cultivated that empathetic and caring attitude.

“You know what Yamato… can you please bring Takeru more often?”

“Yes… definitely I will.”

・。。・゜゜・。。・

You can also find it at: Fanfiction.net & Wattpad

[beermanoftana]

endgame

header by @/earlgreymon

for @ashxketchum!! requested some time ago and finally got to finish it (there's a part that just won't write itself!). i know you asked for takari but your takari for me, my mimato for you (even though it's a little unfair since i love mimato, too). i still do hope you like it! i had a lot of fun writing this and it kinda went on and on as i typed once the part finally wrote itself. anyways! enjoy (i hope)!!

endgame | main characters ; yamato ishida, mimi tachikawa, some taichi yagami and sora takenouchi, can't forget gabumon, palmon, agumon, and piyomon | universe ; au / can be placed anywhere after 02 | ships ; yamato x mimi, taichi x sora, takeru x hikari | genre ; fluff, humor | word count ; 2,235 | rating ; 13+ | edited ; three times - forgive me for any mistakes

Yamato was never in the mood for flirting. He knew people fawned over him, he knew his band was worshiped by those his age, and sure, he did “have a feeling” that flirting was going to be part of his life. But he never even tried to flirt back. Well, maybe he did, but it was usually against his will.

The band was not together anymore, having to go their separate ways, but he still loved them. The flirting, however, did not stop. He knew he was a good-looking guy but now that he was living a life that did not involve anything that required him to “go out there and fly”, maybe a life without people flirting with him 24/7 would be nice.

He and Taichi were having a meal in a small diner with Gabumon and Agumon hidden beside them. The digimons were enjoying their food while their partners talked about school.

Although they took up different courses, they still had some minor classes together, which, despite Yamato not admitting it, was a relief from all the other students they swarmed with. He had made some friends, but no one at the same level he had with Taichi. Everyone came from different backgrounds, and if they were to be honest, it was a little overwhelming, especially since it was their first year in university.

“Are you going to Shinichi’s party on Friday?” Taichi asked.

“Who’s Shinichi?” Yamato questioned, not bothering to look up from his food.

“He’s in one of our minor classes,” Taichi responded, “cool guy. But this party is a little too early, don’t you think? It could be a way to make some friends, I guess. Wanna go together?”

“Can we go?” Agumon asked.

“A party’s always fun,” Gabumon said.

Taichi smiled at them and then looked at Yamato. “What do you say?”

Yamato looked over at the smiling Gabumon and Agumon and sighed. “Okay, let’s go.”

“Great!” Taichi exclaimed.

“But you’re driving,” Yamato said.

“Sora will.”

“Sora?”

“Yeah. She wants to go. But she wants to bring her car so that she can leave anytime she wants.” Taichi shrugged. “Her mom’s car. And she said walking would be a pain, Shinichi’s venue is a little far.”

“We can always ask Birdramon to fly us away,” Agumon jested.

Taichi chuckled, Gabumon laughed, and even Yamato gave a smile.

“So what time do we meet her?” Yamato asked.

“Not sure yet. But we’ll ask her, or message if we don’t see each other anytime soon.”

Yamato smirked. “Right. Anytime soon.”

When Friday arrived, Sora, Taichi, and Yamato, along with their digimon partners, were packed inside Sora’s mom’s car. It was just a four-seater after all, it would only be Mrs. Takenouchi, Sora, whenever Mr. Takenouchi would come home, and Piyomon. And of course, Piyomon rode shotgun, while the men were cramped at the back.

“I think we’re here,” Sora said, looking out the window.

“Finally,” Yamato sighed in relief.

“The place is packed and in full swing!” Taichi said.

“Let’s just find a place to park. Doesn’t look like there’s a lot of cars.”

As they drove around, Gabumon pointed at a spot and Sora immediately swirled to get to it. Both Taichi and Yamato looked at each other, surprised by the speed and sudden jerk of the ride.

They got out of the car and Taichi whispered how his soul nearly left his body after that short ride. Yamato rolled his eyes and stated that he was overreacting.

“His place isn’t that big up-close,” Taichi observed. “It’s just the garden.”

“You think there’ll be beer?” Yamato wondered.

“You three find a spot,” Sora ordered. “Somewhere we can see each other.”

“I don’t think there is a place where we can see each other,” Yamato said.

That could be true. The house was packed. So far, the three have not found anyone they knew. But they were just outside and there were not many people around, perhaps they would find more people inside.

“Think you three can go around without being seen?” Taichi asked.

“Of course!” All three digimons grinned.

The group dispersed, the digimons to the right and the Chosen Children straight ahead.

When they reached inside, they looked around for anyone familiar. After a minute of standing by the door, Sora was called by another young lady and she excused herself from the boys.

“We’ll leave at midnight on the dot,” she told them as she walked away.

“Yes, ma’am,” they both murmured.

After some time of just being together, people-watching, someone came up to them. Taichi straightened up while Yamato raised an eyebrow.

“Hey, glad you two can make it!”

“Thanks for the invite, Shinichi,” Taichi said, smiling.

“Yeah, the party’s great,” Yamato said, although he actually did not find the party that great.

“I’m glad you think so, Yamato. I really wanted your approval.” Shinichi grinned. “I heard you were pretty popular back then, I know you are right now. I wanted the approval of someone who knows how to party.”

“I don’t know how to party,” he replied. “I was in a band, but that didn’t mean we were always partying.”

“I see.” Shinichi pursed his lips. “I’m sorry for assuming. But anyway, enjoy the party.” And he waved goodbye as he disappeared into the crowd.

“I think he likes you,” Taichi joked.

Yamato sighed. “I don’t regret the band.”

“I know you don’t, we all do.” Taichi placed his hand on his friend’s shoulder. “But come on, enough of this. Time to have fun before the old lady tells us to go home.” He snickered.

Yamato scoffed. “I’m going to tell her you said that, I’m sure she won’t like it. At all.”

They both laughed.

The two did enjoy the party. They made new acquaintances and even stuck with a group. They invited Sora in and the three were glad they had new people by their side.

At some point, as the group was talking, Sora paused mid-sentence and everyone waited for her to continue.

“So—?”

“Mimi!”

Both Taichi and Yamato immediately looked to where Sora saw Mimi, followed by the rest of the group.

“What’s she doing here?” Sora wondered, her voice filled with worry.

“Why?” One of the members asked. “What’s wrong?”

Sora shook her head and headed straight for the young girl. Taichi and Yamato followed suit.

“Mimi,” Sora called her.

Mimi looked back and grinned. “Sora!” She stepped forward and gave her a hug, which Sora returned. When they let go, Mimi hugged both Taichi and Yamato as well. “I’m sure Palmon has found the others already.”

“Mimi,” Sora said softly. “What are you doing here?”

“I was invited,” she smiled. “They said there was going to be a party here and I thought it might be fun, you know. And Palmon’s with me.”

“Mimi,” Taichi started. “Who invited you?”

“Shinichi Ozawa did,” she replied. “Why? Is something wrong?”

“Well, no…” Sora said, tilting her head a little. “But, this is a college party. Does Shinichi know that you’re not a college student yet?”

Mimi began to think. “I went to your campus one time, and that’s when he invited me.”

“What were you doing on our campus?” Yamato asked.

“I wanted to surprise you all,” she answered, grinning at him. “But then I asked if you three were coming to the party. He said he wasn’t sure but I wanted to take my chances and surprise you here instead! Isn’t this fun?” Though she sounded unsure when she said the last part.

Yamato sighed. “I don’t think asking you to leave is an option, especially since you’ll be alone—even with Palmon.”

“So what do we do?” Taichi asked.

Sora licked her upper lip. “Babysit.”

Mimi’s eyes widened. “No!”

“Mimi, we don’t know these people. We don’t know these people. Please, stick with at least one of us. We’ll make it up to you, we promise. Just please, Mimi?” Sora pouted.

Mimi looked at all three of them but focused on Sora last. After a few seconds, Mimi sighed. “Okay. I don’t want to admit it but I am a little nervous about this.” She frowned. “Especially since I wasn’t even sure if you guys would be here.”

The three older Chosen Children sighed in relief.

Just then, the group that group the three were talking to appeared and asked what was happening.

“This is Mimi,” Sora introduced. “She’s one of our closest friends.”

“Really?” One of the guys asked. “I’ve never seen you around campus. What course are you in?”

“She’s from another university,” Yamato said quickly.

“May I visit you there?” the same guy asked, his voice a little flirty.

Yamato was suddenly feeling very protective of the younger girl. He did not like the thought of an older stranger visiting her. “Not at the moment,” he said.

“Why don’t you let her answer for herself?” the guy snapped.

Mimi smiled. “Yamato’s just always been protective of us. I don’t mind him answering for me…sometimes.” She giggled.

Yamato knew she was lying so he wondered why she was playing along.

The party was in even fuller swing about forty-five minutes later. Although the three knew Mimi was not too happy with the situation, they also saw that she was having a good time.

At the stroke of twelve, Sora ordered everyone out of the house after thanking Shinichi for the invite. As they headed for the car, the four digimons arrived by their side.

“Yamato, would you take the car and bring Mimi home?” Sora asked.

“Sure,” Yamato answered. “But what about you guys?”

Taichi intertwined his and Sora’s fingers and smiled.

“Got it.”

Mimi squealed. “You two have fun!”

“Agumon, Piyomon?” Palmon looked at them.

“We’ll protect them,” Piyomon said. “But we won’t ruin their moment.”

When everything was set, Yamato, Mimi, Gabumon, and Palmon entered the car. They were quiet for a while until Palmon asked Gabumon how Takeru and Hikari were.

“They’re still very shy,” Gabumon replied. “But that’s expected, right, Yamato?”

“Either very shy or very guarded,” he said with a laugh. “Taichi is still all over them.”

“And you’re not?” Mimi asked, smiling.

Yamato smirked. “Takeru can handle himself. Even if this is his first relationship.”

“Everyone knows Takeru and Hikari would be endgame,” Mimi said with a giggle.

“And Taichi and Sora, too,” Gabumon added.

“Yamato, didn’t Sora have a crush on you before? Mimi said that she gave you something special for Christmas one time. What happened?”

“Palmon!” Mimi chided.

Yamato sighed. “I’ve only told Taichi what happened.”

“I’m sorry,” Palmon said, bowing her head. “I was just very curious now that the topic came up.”

“I knew that Taichi had feelings for her, and I couldn’t do that to him, especially since I only ever felt feelings of friendship for Sora.”

“And Sora gradually had feelings for Taichi, too. And he didn’t even have to try too hard despite having strong feelings, correct?” Mimi grinned as Yamato nodded. “It just means they’re meant to be!”

The four talked more about their friend’s love lives. Mimi’s home was a little on the farther side so they had a lot of time to gossip.

Finally, Mimi had a mischievous look on her face. “What about you, Yamato?”

Yamato smirked. “What about you, Mimi?”

“Don’t turn this in my direction. I asked first.”

“If there’s nothing to say then it only makes sense the question goes back to you.”

“Oh please, someone like you is bound to have someone in mind.”

“There’s no one, Mimi. And again, what about you? If I remember correctly, you’ve always been a hopeless romantic.”

“I still am,” she admitted. “But my goal is different now. I want to play Cupid.”

“Don’t force it though.”

“I know the limits. Now c���mon, Yamato. Answer me.”

“There’s no one, Mimi.”

“Do I have to play Cupid?”

“If it’s with you then I don’t mind.” A smirk on his face.

“I’m serious!”

“Oh look, we’re here.”

Mimi looked up and sighed when she saw the building she lived in. “Okay, fine. But you owe me an answer, Ishida.”

“Yeah, yeah.” He rolled his eyes, but a smirk appeared on his face. “It’s time to go, Tachikawa. It’s getting late. Too late.”

“Will you bring the car back to Sora’s?”

“Yes. And then Gabumon and I will walk home.”

Mimi smiled. “Okay. Thanks for the ride.” She turned to the back seat as Palmon went down. “Goodnight, Gabumon.”

Yamato raised an eyebrow.

“I’ll say goodnight to you if you give me an answer.”

“The gas is running,” Yamato said, looking at the meter. “Goodnight, Mimi. Goodnight, Palmon.”

“Goodnight, Yamato,” Palmon said with a wave.

Mimi chuckled. “Okay. Goodnight, Yamato. Goodnight again, Gabumon.”

“Goodnight, Mimi. Goodnight, Palmon,” Gabumon said.

Yamato looked at her and smiled. “G’night.”

Mimi smiled once again and closed the door.

Once Yamato saw that the two had gone inside the building safely, he drove away.

“Yamato,” Gabumon said.

“Yeah?”

“You were flirting with Mimi, weren’t you?”

Yamato choked. “Flirting? Me? I wouldn’t say so.”

“You were.”

“I was not.”

“You even said—.”

“Gabumon,” Yamato said in a warning tone. This only made his digimon laugh. “Gabumon!”

“You won’t admit it, but you were!”

Yamato sighed. “You’re not letting this go, are you?” Gabumon shook his head. “Just don’t mention it to anyone. And no, I was not flirting.”

[coralinnii]

Thanks for answering my ask.... If you don't mind me asking (again), who are your favorite romantic relationship's couples in books/ manga/manhwa/ anime/movies/tv series (can be canon or non-canon)? And why you love them? Sorry if you've answered this question before....Thanks.

Hmm it’s been a while since I care much about romantic relationships (yes, I see the irony of me, a primarily fluff writer, saying that) but there are some memorable ones that I still love for their dynamic. These are the 5 that I can really remember at the top of my head, I’m sure there’s are many iconic ones but these are just my personal “couple goals” people

1. Roy Mustang and Riza Hawkeye from Fullmetal Alchemist/Fullmetal Alchemist Brother (manga, anime)

Soulmates, More than Lovers

Yes, there is Edward and Winry and they’re great too but Roy and Riza, even when they weren’t officially canon? Oh wow, I absolutely idolised their dynamic growing up. They have to maintain a professional relationship as officer and superior but everyone can tell that they care so much about each other. It’s the trust between, it’s the way they understood each other so much and the faith they have of their partner’s competence. They bicker and annoy each other like old comrades but their bond goes beyond being brothers-in-arms, it’s the way they support each other knowing that they both wish for a world where no one has to go through what they did again. Riza believed in Roy not just because she cared about him but also because she truly believes in him making good on his word in building a better government, and Roy believed in Riza because of her integrity, that he knew she will never be swayed and keep him in track of his dream because that’s just the amazing person she was.

2. Sawako Kuronuma and Shota Kazehaya from Kimi ni Todoke (manga, anime, live-action film)

Friends to Lovers

While romcoms aren’t really my thing, this series was my favorite romcom growing up that I still remember it pretty well after all these years. No hate to the other shoujo animes but Kazehaya was the greenest flag and I can’t be convinced otherwise. He was genuinely kind to everyone, didn’t believe in the crazy rumours and saw Sawako as the sweet person she was, and be that supporting friend to her even when he could tell he had feelings for her. Kazehaya had better emotional awareness and understood how he felt pretty early in the series but never pushed the topic on Sawako when she was still new to a lot of social experiences. Sawako was aware of all the support he has given her and in response, worked hard to make sure his efforts weren’t wasted. It was cute, supportive, and the results felt so deserved and not abrupt.

3. Takeru Takahashi and Hikari Yagami from Digimon (anime)

Will they, won’t they, Childhood friends

I’ve been shipping even before I knew what shipping was. I didn’t know why I love them so much growing. Maybe because I really like the aesthetics, maybe because I’m a sucker for childhood friends, maybe because of all the connections of the crest of hope and light. I thought I grew out of this shipping phrase but nope! I went crazy over the crumbs we get from Digimon Tri. They are such a “Will they, won’t they” duo. I can see them work so well as friends as they do as a couple. They tease each other and are so comfortable together but they are always there for each other when either one of them goes through something.

4. Nomoto and Kasuga from She Loves to Cook, She Loves to Eat

Neighbours to ???

This is a fairly new series in comparison to everything else on the list, but I do love the characters of this series. Not only are the main duo relatable as individuals, they found support in each other. This is a personal plus, but watching Nomoto learning she’s an ace lesbian growing these sweet, wholesome feelings for her neighbour makes the dynamic stand out to me more since this helps show to whatever naysayers that believes that the feeding food part of the story is a kink play of theirs. Like dudes…what? It’s really nice to watch two realistic individuals in a grounded relationship (whatever it is at this point), while going through some heavy topics about societal standards.

5. Seo Dan and Seung Jun from Crash Landing on You (Kdrama)

Villainess x Conman

Seeing that Seo Dan was in the position to be the villainess because she was the second female lead and the male lead’s arranged fiance, everyone would think that she would be evil like all the other second leads in Kdramas, but NO! Seo Dan never outright harm the female lead but instead tried to spend time and win over the man that was her fiance. When she realized she couldn’t and her love is turning toxic, she chose not to continue the path of unrequited love and move on, even though it hurt her because she truly loved the male lead, her first love. Seung Jun was in a somewhat similar villain position being a close-hearted conman who’s not the type to stay for anyone. But he starts to fall for Seo Dan, and hated seeing her break because of a man who couldn’t see how amazing she was. This made me tear up to see that Seo Dan found someone that truly love her, and that Seung Jun found someone who he could truly cherish with all his heart. They got to be the realest and best versions of themselves with each other and were a couple that met the right person, there were just some mistakes to realize it.

[reliablejoukido]

Digimon LOST AU Headcanons part 1/? - Early Taichi-centric stuff

There are character details I've left out regarding other people, because I tried to only focus on the situation from Taichi's POV. Also, more happens to him after this, but this would be equivalent to a first half of a first season. Some of this is subject to additions and changes in the future, based on what I come up with for other characters. Eventually I'll make a masterpost

General info at the start:

Flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo

They crash on an uncharted island somewhere in the Pacific

The survivors that land on the beach are Taichi, Yamato, Sora, Koushiro, Mimi, Jou, and a dozen background characters (I haven't decided if any of the background people are relevant yet)

The tail section of the plane broke off as the plane was falling to the Island and the people on it (including Takeru and Hikari) are presumed dead

There is some sort of unknown "monster" on the Island that kills a few of the background characters

There are people already on the Island (the Others). Among them are Daisuke, Miyako, Iori, and Ken, who capture survivors from the tail section

Taichi:

Age: 26

Flight main section/beach camp

Tries to be a positive person, but is stuck with a difficult situation. Has to figure out the difference between being impulsive and being courageous. Butts heads with Yamato and Jou. Makes friends with Koushiro and Sora.

Flashback: Taichi and Hikari fly from Tokyo to Los Angeles to have surgery for Hikari’s super rare terminal cancer by a world renowned surgical oncologist (Dr. Kido Sr.). When the doctor does tests, he changes his mind and says he cannot operate because she will die. He suggests they go back to Japan to see his son, who is a prodigy and has successfully operated on this type of cancer more recently, but is currently reclusive and nobody can find him

Flashback: Hikari is too sick to take the flight home, so Taichi has to go back to Japan to find this guy’s son and beg him to do the surgery. Taichi is haunted by the fact that he has to leave her in LA. But he’s determined to find Dr. Kido Jr.

Has no idea his sister Hikari was secretly on the flight, in the tail section along with Yamato’s brother Takeru. Also little does he know that the Island has healed her (à la John Locke and Rose). He won’t discover Hikari is on the Island for a while, as she has been captured by the Others (02 kids)

Taichi tries to relate to Yamato’s obsession with finding his brother, as Taichi is a brother himself. But Yamato doesn’t let him in. At least not in the beginning

Taichi preoccupies himself with trying to get off the Island, because Hikari’s prognosis was not good. He gets frustrated when Koushiro, who is deeply entrenched in the Island’s lore, believes they should stay and study the Island. That there’s a reason they were chosen to come here.

Sora secretly does not want to be rescued either, so she sabotages Taichi’s plans to get off the Island without him knowing. Jou finds out and keeps her secret, for now

When Taichi realizes Jou is the doctor he is looking for, he becomes irrationally obsessed with getting both himself and Jou off the Island. Jou is depressed and unmotivated and tells Taichi that no, he doesn’t think he could save his sister. He’s worried he can’t save anyone. He wants to die on the Island and wishes he wasn’t a survivor. This angers Taichi.

Mimi, who gets upset and leaves the beach camp one night, has a dangerous encounter with some sort of unseen monster. She is saved by a strange glowing vision of a young woman who tells Mimi she is Hikari Yagami and that there are other plane crash survivors on the Island. Mimi tells Taichi this and he doesn’t know whether to believe her… but he wants to. Koushiro warns them that it may be a trick, that the Island is digital, somehow, and could be projecting holograms or illusions

Taichi has to make the decision to venture deeper into the Island where there are potential monsters that could kill him, just to see if his sister might be on the Island. Or to stay back and heed Koushiro’s warning/keep trying to get off the Island

Eventually Taichi decides to hike deeper into the Island. Yamato offers to go with him, thinking his brother is alive based on Mimi’s vision. Sora also goes with him, hoping to learn more about what the Island wants for her

[dutchforstrangers]

Suit and tieTai - Taiora one-shot

For @taioraweek 2023 Day 4

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]

A/N: Another WIP that finally sees the light of day. Because I will never get tired of making these two oblivious dorks kiss for the first time in every universe possible.

Summary: It was one simple kiss that turned their ignorance into awareness of what had already been there the entire time...

Day 4: First kiss | Characters: Taichi Yagami (POV) x Sora Takenouchi | Genre: Subconscious blooming romance | Rating: K+ | Wordcount: 1.344

7:47am. When he woke up this morning, he had told himself he would start early, so he was sure to leave Hikari and Sora’s apartment on time for a change. But it had already been eight whole minutes since he had started fighting the tie around his neck in front of the mirror.  

Frustrated with himself and that stupid string of fabric around his neck, Taichi growled. “I have this very important meeting at work I cannot mess up,” he said to no one in particular.

“You good?”

The female voice came from the kitchen and belonged to Sora, since Hikari had already left the house for her internship at the kindergarten. From the corner of his eyes, Taichi could see her peeking.

“Yes.” Taichi said, but didn’t sound to convincing. He decided to switch his answer. “No. This tie, I swear, these should be forbidden!”

Sora grinned, with her elbows she nonchalantly leant on the kitchen counter. “You’d think as someone working in suit and tie every day, you’re good at tying it by now.” She teased him.

“Except I’m not.” He was fully aware of his tone sounding annoyed. And he was, because somewhere deep down in him, he knew he would always struggle with it. “And never will be. Sor, can you help me one more time, please?”

He definitely needed her help. Like he had needed it all the other times he had stayed over these past couple of weeks.

Sora chuckled as she made her way over to him. “Come here.”

“Good thing I’m staying over.”

“You’re practically living here by now,” Sora joked while her hands prepared the two sides of the tie around his neck for the actual tying. Her eyes fixated on the accessory.

Sora’s joke was one with truth though. The girls’ apartment was closer to Taichi’s work than the loft where he lived with the three boys, plus, it had a more cozy atmosphere compared to the messy boys’ energy. He had lived with Yamato, Koushiro and Jyou during his entire time at university, but now that Taichi had started working, he was ready to go a different direction regarding his living space.

“I don’t want to be near Yamato and my cousin getting it on constantly.” Which was another big reason why he wasn’t at home right. He watched a blush forming on Sora’s cheeks, her hands still working on his tie, softly and with care.

“Too much information,” she said. “How about Koushiro-kun and Jyou-senpai?”

“Ugh, Jyou’s never at home, either in the hospital or with his girlfriend, and Koushiro is busy most of the time, hidden behind his desk and wall of computers. Different from me, the boy is resistant to Yamato and all of his bedroom shenanigans.”

Sora laughed. She spent a lot of time with Koushiro, her being one of those rare friends who could talk to him without any form of technology between them, and she was very much aware of Koushiro’s ability of radiating the ‘I’m not giving a shit’ energy.

“Jealous?”

“Please,” was Taichi’s answer.

He wasn’t jealous, it was just him being ready for a change of pace. And so he found himself crashing on the girls’ couch quite a few days per week. He had to admit though, it also came in very handy that Hikari or Sora –but mostly Sora—were always available to help him out with his daily outfit struggles. 

Maybe he was in need of a life partner to settle down with, who could match his changed needs and wants, Taichi thought to himself, knowing he couldn’t keep crashing the girls’ couch forever.

“I much rather stay here with my lovely little sister and incredible friend who is—”

Sora patted his chest lightly and Taichi shifted his attention towards her hands after returning from his thoughts.

“… great at tying your ties.” Sora finished for him. Her feminine fingers worked their magic once more and a perfectly knotted tie hung loosely around his neck. She carefully adjusted his collar and the tie itself, making it look sharp. “There, you’re all set.”

The softness and collected happiness in her voice made Taichi smile. He showed her his signature grin before turning himself to the mirror to look at himself. Behind him he saw Sora look at him too and his own heart weirdly skipped a beat.

“Thanks,” he quickly said to cover himself, still genuinely happy with Sora’s fashion knowledge and friendly help. He walked past her to get to his jacket and coat.

“Oh! There’s this dinner thing at my place tonight, will you be there too?” Taichi remembered as he put the jacket and coat on.

“Sure will be,” Sora answered while on her way back to the kitchen. Again, he felt a bolt of luck going through his body and warming his chest.

“Great! Looking forward to it.” He hastily slid into his shoes, his eyes checking out the time on the watch around his wrist. “Shit! Okay, gotta rush, see you toni—”

“Wait! Not yet.” Sora shouted from the kitchen. Taichi already had the door opened, doorknob in his hand, as he turned his head around to see Sora crossing the small living room towards in a rushed pace. In her hand she held his lunchbox and he instantly remembered it was what he not only forgot to grab, but forgot to prep and pack as well…

“You left this,” she said it as if he hadn’t seen what she was bringing him. He took the box from her, immediately feeling it wasn’t empty, meaning she had not only noticed he forgot, but had actually prepped and packed it for him. The heat from his chest slowly rose to his cheeks. “Have a good day at work.”

She smiled at him with her kindest and most genuine smile. It made him smile in return and for just the briefest of moments, time stood still.

“Thank you, you too,” he said, suddenly realizing he was in a hurry. With the lack of air between the two of them, he swiftly close the gap and planted a quick kiss on her lip—

Wait.

He did what? When— how?

Time seemed to stand still once more.

“Erm… sorry,” Sora spoke first, face completely red, chest high from all the gathered air inside of it. “That wasn’t supposed to happen…”

Taichi shook his head, with that trying to get him out of his daze. “Right… So much for all the accusations of us looking like a married couple huh?” He joked, automatically resolving to comedy to cover up his own redness.  

“Y-yeah, hehe…” Sora nodded as one hand moved itself nervously to her lips, her fingers touching the spot where he had pecked her like a husband kissing his spouse goodbye for the day.

Even though he had been unaware of his own feelings at first, apparently, his body had known what to do. The kiss blissfully happened by itself, showcasing both him and her what sparks had been exchanged. Not only during the time spent in this apartment together, but during their entire life by now.

It occurred to him that, rather than searching for someone to settle down with, perhaps he had already found that someone. Sleeping underneath the same roof, she tying his ties, bickering like only lovers could.

That it was just one simple kiss turning the ignorance into awareness.

The smile on his face grew bigger. As much as Taichi wanted to stay, especially now –to reflect a bit longer, to talk about his newfound excitement— he had to run.

“See you tonight, Sora.” Taichi said emphasizing her name as he took off.

He looked over his shoulder one more time, just to be met with the view of Sora waving him goodbye like they had indeed been married forever. To that, Taichi snickered to himself, in his securing Sora would be the one to untie his tie at the end of at least today.

Perhaps he could even steal another kiss from her…

[lowder-the-koopa]

The Return of Lowder Reviews: Digimon Adventure (Movie)/Digimon Adventure Review Part 1: A Short and Sweet Film

This review is going to be another short review.

Plot Summary

In Highton View Terrace, Tokyo, a boy named Taichi "Tai" Kamiya wakes up late at night and sees his sister Kari Kamiya looking at their dad's computer. Suddenly, a strange egg comes out of it. The next morning, Tai cannot believe his eyes when he realizes the egg is real. While their mother is out, the egg seems to develop a mind of its own when it escapes Kari's grasp and rolls away. It then hatches into a Botamon and immediately latches onto Tai's face. Tai throws it off, and it runs under the nearby bed. Tai tries to get it out by throwing his googles at it, but that just makes Botamon blow bubbles at him. Kari eventually gains its trust with her whistle and begins feeding it chocolate, causing it to digivolve into Koromon.

Now out of food, Kari steals the food belonging to their cat, Miko, and gives it to Koromon, who thanks her by latching onto her face as well and then Tai's. Miko soon finds Koromon with its food, however, and lashes out. Tai tries to protect him and, soon after, Koromon introduces himself. Tai is at first upset first because Kari is talking to Koromon but will only blow her whistle at him. He tells Tai and Kari that he is a Digimon from the Digital World. They don't really understand this and later head to bed, but Koromon suddenly digivolves into Big Agumon and begins roaming the streets, causing destruction on a small scale, while carrying Kari on his back.

Agumon is roaming around the city causing trouble while Tai frantically chases after him and Kari. Before he manages to cause any real casualties, a Parrotmon appears out of a huge egg in the sky. Agumon lashes out, which only angers the bird, causing it to destroy an overhead bridge and covering Agumon and the two kids in rubble. Out of the rubble, Red Greymon appears in Agumon's place and begins fighting back against Parrotmon. After a few minutes, Greymon is knocked out, and only awakens when Tai blows Kari's whistle as loud as he can. He then lets out a blinding fire breath attack, and the two Digimon vanish, leaving Tai and Kari alone amongst all the destruction. Yamato "Matt" Ishida, Sora Takenouchi, Koushiro "Izzy" Izumi, Mimi Tachikawa, Joe Kido, and Takeru "T.K." Takaishi all see the battle from their windows and are chosen as DigiDestined along with Tai and Kari four years later.

Thoughts

I'm going to be honest with you, this is one of the best animate films I have seen in my entire life. I love how this film looks and how well animated it is.

(About time I started incorporating my emotes into these reviews.)

This film reminds me a lot of when I was kid growing up and how much happier I was compared to now.

But I'm a lot happier now compared to the beginning of the year and last year, because of the people I've met both here and in real life.

Getting back to the review, Taichi and Hikari, even though they aren't as developed as they are in the show, are good protagonists to me because of how curious both of them are about Digimon and how they react to this unnatural situation, because, even though they head into danger, they are still little kids at the end of the day and that's okay.

Botamon/Koromon/Agumon/Greymon is a cute and enjoyable character and I love the friendship between him and the Yagami siblings. I love the fight between him and Parrotmon at the end of the film because of how stunning it is to look at it and how good the sound design was for the entire fight.

When it comes to story, its simplistic but I'm fine with it because this is suppose to be a preview to the actual show. Which from what I have read, is a lot more expansive compared to this film.

When it comes to problems, I think the only problems I have with this film are just some animation errors but I can mostly ignore most of those because of I think most of those can be ignored due to being small.

Conclusion

Overall, I think Digimon Adventure (Film) is a great film and I enjoyed my time watching it with the beautiful animation and the vibes making me feel nostalgic and happy.

Rating

Digimon Adventure (Film) gets a Lowder Reviews first, 10/10.

Join me next time when we enter the Digital World in Digimon Adventure (Season One).

[digitalgate02]

I think my favourite romantic trope is:

Character A has a crush on Character B, but Character A thinks they're so good at hiding it that everyone, including Character B, knows.

Daisuke is the biggest example of this trope, ok? He thinks he's hiding his crush on Hikari very well EXCEPT everyone knows.

Even Hikari knows. The moment Yagami Hikari learned he liked her, she decided to take advantage of it when the others need his help.

[seventeenlovesthree]

Digi Dynamic Shipping Game

Send me two names among the following 12 and I’ll write a short analysis post about them:

Taichi Yagami | Yamato Ishida | Sora Takenouchi | Koushirou Izumi | Mimi Tachikawa | Jyou Kidou | Takeru Takaishi | Hikari Yagami | Daisuke Motomiya | Miyako Inoue | Iori Hida | Ken Ichijouji

Whether canon provides input on them or not.

Boy, do I love to refer back to "Butterfly" and how it basically framed Taichi as the male main character and Sora as the female main character throughout. One might argue that this is a combination that has been occurring in quite a lot of anime - particularly kids and Shounen related - back in the 90s and early 2000s, so... Asking whether or not canon provides input on them is like asking if water is wet. They've known each other since elementary school, have been in the same class ever since (and will continue to be classmates until graduation) and even attended the same football club for a while. They start the series as "almost telepathically connected" football club duo (basically a novel quote right here), adventurous and hands-on plot drivers, the courageous leader and the tomboyish but caring voice of reason right by his side. You instantly get the impression that they are familiar and close with each other and it's a theme that continues throughout the entire first season; not only because they consistently jump into action and call out, care for and protect each other, but because they, their bond, their loyalty and development are basically responsible for the fact that the kids get through everything alive in the end.

Trying to describe the extent and depth of their relationship would probably end with me writing a whole novel, so I will try to keep this brief, because... You know them. Similarly to Taito, Koumi and Takari, Taiora has been a staple in the shipping scene ever since the conception of Digimon Adventure back in 1999 - and for good reason. As mentioned, there used to be - and still is - a trope to pair up the main boy and main girl with one another and this case is no exception, considering how well they play off of each other, supporting and saving each other time and time again. Digimon Adventure is a special series though - a series whose creators intended to break through tropes and stereotypes, turning those on the head whenever possible. So while Taichi's and Sora's bond may be so significant that the idea of them ending up together seems inherently plausible - this is not how their story ends.

The tomboy, who struggles with her sense of femininity and identity, cannot deal with her best friend gifting her a hairclip - and while they seem thoroughly devoted to and on each other's minds, they develop in different directions. There is a theme of miscommunication between them as they grow older, little quarrels here and there - but at the same time, there is still an incredible sense of mutual fondness and protectiveness that, despite a growing physical distance, never completely vanishes. "If you love someone, let them go", is a quote that may come to mind when you take a look at the screenshot above and are aware of its context. Whether that kind of love was romantic or platonic at this point? We may never know.

This is the story of two close long-term friends, who were not meant to be together - wrong time, wrong place.

... Which doesn't mean that there isn't a potential "right time", right...?

Whether I think why and how they’d work.

What I mentioned above seems to be somewhat cryptic and what I'm about to outline may or may not break canon to a certain degree, but HEAR ME OUT.

While this headcanon is, for now, nothing more than a headcanon, but I am a big supporter of @dutchforstrangers' interpretation of the epilogue, leading to the idea that Yamato and Sora might not remain together/married. This post is not meant to be Sorato slander in any way and I will not go into detail here as to why I think this is a valid headcanon - just know that there are a few subtext aspects in regards to their behavioural patterns and body languages that leave room for speculation. And that's all there is to it: SPECULATION!

The point I am trying to make here is, once again, that Taichi and Sora may not have been ready to be in a relationship early in life - because they first had to come to terms with themselves, their real dreams, aspirations and needs. They had to become comfortable with themselves (particularly after the loss of their Digimon partners) to bridge the (physical and emotional) distance that had festered between them through the years. Because if you think about it, due to their underlying insecurities, they both chose the same approach in their early twenties: Isolating themselves from the rest of their friend group. And I feel like they both have to come to the conclusion first that this is a state that could never bring them long-lasting happiness. They're both social beings that shrivel when they're left alone for too long. (They may also need the encouragement of their friends - particularly Mimi, Koushirou and Hikari - to get there though.)

So it may take a while, weeks, months, maybe even years, to reconcile, step by step. Rekindling their bond, making up their minds about their true passions and career paths, rediscovering old and finding new hobbies and similarities along the way; whether it's about their shared love for their friends, football, adventurous and sporty activities, probably therapy???, whatever it may be... Until they'd reunite with their partners and, with a gleeful but weary smile on their faces, realize that they just had to grow up to this point to eventually find each other as well.

Whether I’d prefer them as platonic or romantic ship.

In case the way I've been talking about them hasn't made it obvious yet - I do love Taiora a lot. While I hadn't started actively shipping Digimon characters until I started watching Tamers, I always had an incredible soft spot for them and up to this day, Taichi and Sora are my second favourite choice for each other. You could say that, in every possible universe in which Taich doesn't end up with Koushirou, he WOULD end up with Sora if I had anything to say. It's also no secret that Taikoura is my absolute favourite OT3 and I really think they COULD work out beautifully together. In the end, both romantic and platonic Taiora is absolutely beautiful to me - especially because it brought some very special, wonderful people into my life. Long story short: As long as their closeness persists in any way, shape or form, I'll be happy.

I also still maintain that the reboot timeline could potentially go there, but I will not get my hopes up... Yet.

[izzyizumi]

Digimon Adventure 02 ~ Episode 13 (Japanese Version) featuring Characters: Takeru Takaishi & Hikari Yagami (as Platonic)

"I SHOULD be protecting {Hikari} and STILL..." - Takeru;

"Hikari ISN'T 'WEAK'..." - Tailmon, directly, to Takeru

"Hikari is strong. ..."

"... But that's {also} because {Hikari} has {friends} who {help} [(Implied): support, not just 'protect'] {Hikari}."

gifs by @izzyizumi {DO NOT re-post} {DO NOT remove caption} (Please ASK to Use)

[Note: Tags/replies that are Positive/respectful are OK!]

[hikari-m]

{DigiAdv Ep. 49} (J.P.N Version) ~ Important QUOTES + Hikaris Character Progression + Hikari & Taichi / {Platonic}/{Familial} Moments + Hikari & Sora / {Friendship}/{Supportive} Moments & Interaction + Hikari & Takeru / {Friendship} Moments & Interaction

“After all, I’M his {little sister}.” - Hikari, genuinely/pleasantly/hopefully

[Full text will be added shortly, check comments!]

{Clipped by Me} {DO NOT re-post} {DO NOT remove caption} (Please ASK to Use) [Disclaimer: I Do Not own DigiAdvs / DigiAdv ( C ) T0ei @nimation]

(Note: This is mainly intended as Canon reference + Hikari’s Platonic relationships informative. Please respect that if interacting, Thank You!)