#hikaru birthday asks

[kyokkou]

"I hate my birthday."

Hikaru looks up, a hint of distress clouding over him as he processes what the oldest child just muttered. There's an urge to gently remind him that Kiku is ill right now, and that it would be a bit selfish to expect him to endure the noise that comes with a party. Instead, he offers compromise-- like usual.

"You can still celebrate it another day," Hikaru reminds him. "When the illness has passed."

When he looks over at his beloved oldest child, though, it's clear Kazuhiko isn't satisfied; but he's upset more than he is angry. He's still a child, after all.

"I don't care about a party," he responds, putting down the colored pencil on the unfinished drawing. "This day is just bad. It's bad. Why did it have to be today?"

Kazuhiko's frustration is tangible, and Hikaru feels it in every fiber of his being. Unfortunately, he just doesn't have the words to express it, but Hikaru knows what he means from the way his voice strains not to crack. He's the oldest of the children, and it'd make him seem like such a baby if anyone caught him sniveling about something as stupid as a missed birthday.

But it's not about that.

Hikaru knows what it's about: the complexities of conflict and politics, things that normal children need not worry about and certainly don't understand. Their children are not normal; Kazuhiko is now one-hundred and fifty-four years old, and though it's barely a spark in comparison to Hikaru's two-thousand-ish, it's one hell of a long time to remain a child who knows a little too much to remain blissfully ignorant.

Miko seems to be the only one who can manage to ignore it-- either that, or she's just the best at hiding her existential distress. She's been with Sakura for the past week, and won't be back for at least a few more days. The house would be silent were it not for the song of the cicadas drifting in from outside, and the occasional jingle of the furin that hung on the eaves of the home.

Hikaru offers a sympathetic but sad smile at his oldest child, and pats the spot on the floor next to him. It takes a second for Kazuhiko to scoot over, but he leans right into the protective embrace of his parent almost immediately, hiding his face in the folds of Hikaru's yukata.

"You were born well before this day became a solemn occasion," Hikaru points out gently, but he soon finds himself backed into a corner.

It's his own fault that things are like this now.

The thought is sharp, but not unnecessarily. This, he thinks, is why I have not forgiven you. Kazuhiko should not have to even think about such things.

"You can still go spend time together."

That seems to be the best way out of it, but Hikaru feels Kazuhiko shake his head "no" in response.

"Why not?" He asks a bit dumbly-- but he genuinely can't think of a reason. Kiku would never say no to him, even in his barely-conscious state.

"Akimitsu," comes the reply. "It's his turn today. He doesn't like the things we do together, and this is the only day they ever spend time together..."

Perhaps he's a little jealous, too? Hikaru shakes his head a little. It's a shame Kazuhiko has to learn the meaning of the word sacrifice in such a way, but it's true; Akimitsu never spends time with Kiku outside of this particular day.

"Does that upset you?" Hikaru questions further. "I am relieved your brother wants to spend time with your father. I used to worry they would never get along. It is a gift in itself to see them bond, however odd that bonding might be."

Kazuhiko is quiet, but he stops hiding his face and looks over in the direction of Kiku's room, deep in thought. Hikaru's tactic of re-framing seems to be working its way through his little head. The day might not yet be a total loss if he can just see the silver lining in it all.

"You should go spend a little time together before I need your help to make dinner," Hikaru encourages, patting Kazuhiko's hair softly. "It is much too difficult to make Kirishima's curry all alone."

It isn't, but Kazuhiko likes loves feeling important, and he's quick to wipe his eyes and head off to spend time with the rest of the family before he has to save the day and help with dinner. Hikaru feels lighter once he hears, albeit barely, the two brothers conversing over what Studio Ghibli movie to watch, and the inevitable just keep it down response from Kiku.

[duckprintspress]

Queer Horror Stories to Celebrate Mary Shelley’s Birthday!

Today, August 30th, is Frankenstein Day and Mary Shelley’s Birthday! To celebrate the first horror novel, we decided to ask our contributors about their favorite queer horror novels and ended up with 28 titles for a very spooky end of summer. Contributors to this list are: Shadaras, D.V. Morse, Nova Mason, Terra P. Waters, Rhosyn Goodfellow, Nina Waters, Meera S., Shea Sullivan, Owl Outerbridge, Sanne, Tris Lawrence, boneturtle and an anonymous contributor.

The Luminous Dead by Caitlin Starling

Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell

The Devourers by Indra Das

Into the Drowning Deep & Rolling in the Deep (Rolling in the Deep series) by Mira Grant

What Moves the Dead (Sworn Soldier series) by T. Kingfisher

Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle

Camp Damascus by Chuck Tingle

I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast Is Me by Jamison Shea

Sixteen Souls by Rosie Talbot

The Honeys by Ryan La Sala

The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass

Kaleidoscope of Death by Xi Zi Xu

The Dead and the Dark by Courtney Gould

Alice Isn’t Dead by Joseph Fink

Squad by Maggie Tokuda-Hall

The Hills of Estrella Roja by Ashley Robin Franklin

The Vampire Lestat (The Vampire Chronicles series) by Anne Rice

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

The Summer Hikaru Died by Mokumokuren

Pet Shop of Horrors by Matsuri Akino

Your Shadow Half Remains by Sunny Moraine

The Deep Sky by Yume Kitasei

Make the Exorcist Fall in Love by Aruma Arima & Masuku Fukayama

Hell Followed With Us by Andrew Joseph White

Summer Sons by Lee Mandelo

Fate/Stay Night by Type-Moon

Umineko When They Cry by Ryukishi07

Case 00: The Cannibal Boy from Sounding Stone

Welcome to Night Vale

The Silt Verses

What are your favorite queer horror novels? Tell us in the comments!

Want to chat your favorite reads with us? Join our Book Lover’s Discord server!

Update your Goodreads TBR with any of these books by visiting our queer horror shelf on Goodreads!! Or, jump onto Bookshop.org and browse these books on our queer horror list!

[rivangel]

every—lesser known—canon fact about Levi Ackerman.

infamously over the years, there have been countless false rumors about Levi in particular out of the cast. many of them have become popular, even ubiquitous, and it's annoying!

and also disheartening when you find out it's not true....

and hurtful when you realize it was - sometimes - made up by trolls.

so i'm making this post<3

credit to @levisfavoriteacup for the idea!!

*disclaimer: i'm not perfect, so this may not be Everything™️ but I am confident that it's the majority of information available, and that it's trustworthy. :)

First the most populars. There is no evidence across interviews nor other content over the years that:

Levi is ugly, and is considered ugly in AOT.

Nope. See here: (tumblr link), or:

Isayama finished his first sketch of Levi mostly on a whim, but the moment he drew his face, he had a sense it would work well / he knew he had something good. Something told him: "the yaoi fangirls are going to like this one".

As time passed and his popularity grew, Isayama caught onto this and wanted to portray him more attractively (in multiple ways) to the viewer/reader.

But from the beginning, this was something of the goal. He is short because Isayama had in mind what young women/fangirls in Japan consider attractive: a man with a higher-pitch voice; has a small face; and who is "short but strong".

In the world of AOT, he (in a nutshell) is mostly considered plain or awkward, but combined with his reputation and style, he's very charming. "He cleans up nice." Overall, it is positive :) But more importantly, realistic I think.

He's also something of a celebrity. People who advertise their product as being used by him are more successful; when he's seen in a shop, this by itself is considered "advertising" and more people come in. Quote: ""the tea that the hero bought”".

He's definitely not a 2/10 at any rate😇.

—the 24th episode of Naoki Yoshida's Anime Plan, 2013 / Interview with Frau Magazine, 2013 | Hajime Isayama x Hikaru Suruga (2014) | AU Smartpass - Erwin & Levi Close Up Interview Part 1 | Taking shelter from the rain reprise: Levi and Peaure

Levi’s type would be someone who’s "tough, feminine and sensual".

Levi's type "might" be tall people. But context matters, because in multiple translations "don't you think?" and "might be" are thrown around a lot. Isayama isn't known for his clarity. When asked, he practically said the question right back. —fan Q&A from a festival in Betsumaga, Aug.2014

What this quote might have come from is a statement by the author of an article Isayama was likely involved in. I can't say this is 100% canon, but in my opinion it's a little less canon than the Smartpass AUs; if those are sub-canon, then this is sub-sub-canon:

Levi's romantic type is someone who walks three steps behind him, and likes cleaning.

In the past, in Japanese culture, for a wife to walk three steps behind her husband implied highly traditional gender roles. What this is much more likely to mean is that Levi's romantic type is someone who will let him protect them, or will run away and survive even if it costs his life. (And they have to like cleaning.)

—the article is from 2013, and no longer exists. but the link was used as recently as 2021 as a source in this post by a reliable translator. I've found this quote also in varying qualities of translation across Japanese and English forums, so to the best of my knowledge, it's reliable.

Levi's cravat is a piece of his mother's dress + he was wearing her dress when Kenny found him.

This is a popular rumor that Isayama has never confirmed (i think it is true, tho.)

December 25th was chosen by his comrades because he doesn't know his actual birthday.

The guidebook only states that it is his birthday. I can't find any more context on this. —AOT Guidebook; p.256

His character profile:

—AOT Guidebook; p.78–79

His name is Hebrew, and means "attached" or to be "joined".

Isayama came up with Levi's name after watching American documentary "Jesus Camp". (It's about a summer camp-type program where evangelical Christian children are taught extreme beliefs. One of the children was named Levi.) Isayama heard it and thought it sounded cool. —Hajime Isayama x Hikaru Suruga (2014) | 2010 blogpost by Isayama

Levi is in his early 30s (in s3/RtS/volume 19). –Interview, Universal Studios Japan’s SNK THE REAL exhibition, 2016 | confirmation

If Kuchel was still alive, Levi would want to make sure she had an easy life. This means specifically filial piety, a concept exclusive to the East: he would fulfill his duties as a son for her. (tldr he's a mama's boy :3) —Bessatsu Magazine, 2019

Levi would have thin facial hair, but he prefers not to, so he shaves frequently. —January 2020 issue of Bessatsu Magazine (chapter 124)

He doesn't like coffee milk or coffee jelly. They're out of the question even.🤐 —July 2018 issue of Bessatsu Magazine (chapter 106)

He just gets depressed when he drinks coffee. Maybe he loves tea that much? He stopped calling Hange names like 'shitty glasses' since they became commander because he "seems" to respect their position that much. However, a Smartpass story delves deeper into this (and states as I suspected): [After Hange makes a joke] "Since becoming the commander succeeding Erwin, they’d toned down on their past speech and behaviour that had a touch of tomfoolery; Levi understanding that they were nevertheless trying to maintain the self “that was the case then”, also loses the will to curse at them." + "In the past, Hange had a Hange-type dream, and should have been progressing to that purpose. That lately, was it the weight of the office of commander, or was it due to the reality that is “all the world was our enemy”, their manner had changed considerably." —May 2017 issue of Bessatsu Magazine (chapter 92) | Goodnight. Sweet dreams, dear. Act II: Levi

If he and Kenny had fought one-on-one, Levi would've won. —December 2016 issue of Bessatsu Magazine (chapter 87)

intermission: all about tea

His favorite "food" is black tea. No actual food.

He doesn't add sugar or milk to his tea because he considers it too expensive—which it is canonically. Despite this, he will share his tea with his comrades (his original squad as far as is seen).

Even though he's Captain, he'd rather drink it straight (the implications of which are he's a hardworking man, like that of a farmer. aka, this makes him seem humble).

If a time of peace ever came, Levi wants to open a black tea shop (he said in a dreamlike way, not so much based in reality).

He also knows a good amount of facts and history about it. He's a tea enthusiast!!

Levi receives pilfered tea in shipments monthly, thanks to Erwin.

—AU Smartpass - Erwin & Levi Close Up Interview Part 2 | Part 1 | Taking shelter from the rain reprise: Levi and Peaure | Bessatsu Magazine, Jan.2014 | September 2016 issue of Bessatsu Magazine (chapter 84) | AU Smartpass My First Time Around: Levi Ackerman | The Case of the Corps Tea Party - File No. 09 Levi's Side (3/3) | sugar and milk in tea from the Japanese perspective

Levi, out of his original squad, found Petra cute/sweet in the general sense of the word "kawaii". Like Levi's romantic type however, this was sort of a non-answer to the question (of whether Levi thought she was cute). —2014 interview

After RtS, Levi seems to consider Hange and the 104th his family. —AU Smartpass My First Time Around: Levi Ackerman

He wears a cravat because Isayama based part of his design off Rorschach from the movie 'Watchmen'. He looks "delicate" because of his size and weight, but he's so powerful because [in issues before the reveal of the Ackerman bloodline] of "invisible power" at work. —January 2016 issue of Bessatsu Magazine (chapter 76)

The best way to describe the way he thinks is to compare him to the main character from the movie The Hurt Locker (2008). His character was born from Hiei from the manga 'Yuyu Hakusho', and Rorschach from the movie 'Watchmen'. The former was the basis for his appearance (especially his eyes), and the latter was the basis for his personality. Firstly though, Isayama had an image of a small man being the strongest.

—Hajime Isayama x Hikaru Suruga (2014) / Brutus Magazine (2014)

He is something of a protagonist (especially in s3p1). — Animedia, June 2018

His favorite tool (in general...?) is microfiber cloths (for dust I guess. Levi has no need for weapons :3) —July 2015 issue of Bessatsu Magazine

He will usually laugh/smile when he sees convenient cleaning goods (i.e., vacuum cleaners? feather dusters? ((cuz he's a shorty?❤️)) —Bessatsu Magazine, Dec. 2013

He does want to be taller sometimes. He gets eager to clean up after meals rather than cook at all. He can cook, though. —Bessatsu Magazine, Aug.2014 | fan Q&A in Oyama, Oita, Mar.2018

Levi mostly couldn't adapt to the changes that came about after the truth was discovered. Only he wears mostly the same uniform, cape, and blades.

After RtS, Levi personally retrieved Erwin's remains himself, for whom there was a special memorial service. After Eren (inadvertently) called him a "tiny old man" in season 3, Levi didn't care, but when he thought of it by himself later, he was hurt (unclear exactly why). Levi's father, most likely one of Kuchel's customers, is an insignificant man who's short. That's where Levi's height comes from. His face comes from his mother. At the start of season 4, Levi didn't change much compared to the 104th because he's turning into an "old man" who'd rather stick with his flip phone so to speak. He "doesn't break out into cold sweats". AKA he's always calm under pressure. He considers prostitution to be an ordinary job because of his childhood. Levi's vision is very sharp, way above average. He thought Eren's new look beginning season 4 was unclean/dirty (in more ways than one perhaps). —fan Q&A in Oyama, Oita, Mar.2018

He has slight bouts of insomnia. He never snaps/explodes when he's angry. But he does get angry or grumpy a lot, in general. He doesn't sing. It's more likely he would dance. If he was a fan of Momoiro Clover Z (jpop girl group), his favorite would be Momoka. When/if he drinks, he has a high tolerance, but he can get a little drunk :) One thing he highly hates and fears is mold. He is the one who ordered Armin to dress as Historia during the uprising. His blood type is A. Blood types are much like horoscopes in Japanese culture, and Levi's is as such: kichōmen, or well-organized; he likes keeping things neat, but can be stubborn and stressed out easily.

Whether he eats enough or has a good diet? He is "a bit lax". Maybe he forgets to eat sometimes, or has a low appetite. When Levi bathes, he goes for a quick shower then soak in hot water, which takes about ten minutes. Like a bird :')) He on any given night gets about 2-3 hours of sleep. He thought Eren was the best at cleaning (in season 3 / uprising arc). Because of his childhood in the Underground, Levi has a preoccupation/obsession with cleaning (specifically to ward off disease). He also doesn't have any pajamas, mostly keeping day clothes on when he goes to sleep - which is in "his" chair. Levi cuts his own hair using clippers. (Something like:)

He's aware Oluo imitated him, and found it annoying. Levi's horoscope (in general) as a Capricorn: Humanity’s Strongest Soldier - Levi. He possesses warmth in the midst of a dispassionate nature, and he is capable of leadership without verbal expression – both of which are special qualities of a Capricorn. Capricorns tend to hold certain levels of authority, even if they must carry out somewhat unreasonable tactics while in such positions. But when such authority is backed up with actual abilities, a Capricorn can gain Levi’s type of confidence and also be put on a pedestal by those around them. However, Capricorns won’t be dependent on others, much less trust them easily. They don’t hold high expectations and thus never feel a sense of failure. Levi’s faults include the inability to express himself clearly.  Even though he wants to encourage his companions, he always speaks in a roundabout way, and without Hanji’s translation it’s nearly impossible to understand Levi’s intended meaning. Even though he is dependable in most situations, when it comes to love/romance, he expresses himself clumsily/awkwardly. —FRaU Magazine, Aug.2014. | fan Q&A in Oyama, Oita, Mar.2018 | Levi: Close-up Report (Part One) | Translator *the horoscope wasn't written by Isayama, but was published alongside canon information, and it's also not factually wrong, so I'm including it.

The dark circles under Levi’s eyes are to convey the “self-destruction” he takes on to reach the “standard” of Humanity’s Strongest. —Interview on the topic of Levi, May 2015

His 'liege'—as Eren is to Mikasa, and Uri is to Kenny—is Erwin. He is afraid of making deep relationships because of the cruel world he lives in; he can't know when someone he cares for will die or how soon. That 'gap' left in Levi's heart by Kenny's death was filled by his squad (the 104th). If Levi hadn't joined the Survey Corps, he would've been a "very irresponsible person". Risky with his life perhaps? As a kid, Levi used to make himself stronger in order to receive praise from Kenny. When he abandoned him, he wondered what his strength was even for. He was able to find peace with Kenny after his death. In CH72, the reason Levi kicked the shit out of Eren and Jean is because of his argument with Erwin earlier.

He knows he's a slave to his own strength, aka the idea of being a hero. He realizes it when Kenny asked what he's a slave to in s3/ch69. —Answers Guidebook, Aug.2016

If he ever changed his appearance, the one thing Levi couldn't be able to give up is his undercut :') He would grow out the top and tie it up :3 —Oyama homecoming event Q&A in 2014 | 2 | 3

Levi knows how to use a gun, but he "places more trust" in knives. —Bessatsu Magazine, 2019

Levi tolerates saunas. But instead of enjoying himself he seems to see it as a test of endurance. (LOL) —Bessatsu Magazine, 2020

Levi has newspaper-level handwriting that he practices often. He's very conscious of it and being connected back to the Underground. —AU Smartpass TEXT: Levi’s Signature

Isayama had considered killing Levi around the time of the thunderspear explosion. (As always) Isayama deliberated with his editors whether or not it'd be meaningful if he died, and they decided it wouldn't be. —Kawakubo interview, 2021

Specially, Levi holds his swords in a reverse grip "his own way" since he wasn't officially trained. —Illustrate Note Magazine, 2017

Levi forcefully bathes Hange by knocking them unconscious. —AU Smartpass - Erwin & Levi Close Up Interview Part 1

Levi is 4 at the time that Kuchel dies. —What the director informed Kamiya Hiroshi of on set

His character song is called "Dark Side of the Moon", found on YouTube here. Translated lyrics here.

how to draw Levi:

—AOT Guidebook; p.229 | +Illustrate Note Magazine, 2017

[ashleyxd69]

demon slayer headcanons (modern)

(*^▽^*)Tanjiro(*^▽^*) 

-has no enemy’s, everyone in the class loves him

-is that one kid who knows everybody while walking down the halls

-definitely keeps reminders on his phone of plans and people birthdays

-on the basketball and soccer team

-is part of 10 clubs because he can’t say no to people

-gets in fights a lot with Sanemi a lot because he accuses tanjiro of not paying attention 

-kid that is friends with almost every teacher 

( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)Inosuke( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

-class clown

-in detention almost everyday 

-every teacher hates him because he’s always so loud and distracts the class

-everybody finds him hilarious though, and loves him

-on the basketball team 

-always yelling doesn’t know how to just talk, you can hear him from the other side of the school

-uses a 3 in 1 shampoo, conditioner, and body wash 

(*≧∀≦*)Zenitsu(*≧∀≦*)

-is that one kid that is always bring like erm actually 

-everyone finds them annoying but for some reason the popular kids still talk to him (aka tanjiro)

-took on class president cause he thought it would get him more girls

-that one kid who is always crying in the hallways

-hates sports, he hates even watching them because he thinks there boring and a waste of time

( ^ω^ )nezuko( ^ω^ )

-very popular

-great makeup advice 

-always found in the corner of a class with a few other girls gossiping 

-always has information on everyone

-has the cutest pencil case 

-cheer team captain 

-she gets love confessions every week but turns them all down

-she has a very fast metabolism, and likes to go on eating dates with Mitsuri 

(*´-`)kanao(*´-`)

-quite girl

-as A’s in all of her classes

-if you ask her nicely she will help you study

-is great friends with nezuko and tanjiro

-nezuko will try to beg her to join but she is to shy to, but she definitely knows every dance and cheer by heart 

-is part of the band and plays the flute 

-has a lovely singing voice but only nezuko has heard it

-volunteers at a nursing home in her spare time

(๑╹ω╹๑ )Genya(๑╹ω╹๑ )

-people are afraid of him because they are scared of his older brother 

-looks mean but is super sweet

-still can’t talk to girls except nezuko and kanao because he’s so close to them

-plays basketball with Inosuke and tanjiro, but isn’t on the team

-loves to play the drums, he likes how they are loud and he can take his anger out on them

-once played a Roblox horror with muichiro, he got so scared he screamed and threw his phone, he never played again

-definitely has braces 

✌︎('ω')✌︎Muichiro✌︎('ω')✌︎

-loves the window seat

-would play which one of us is Hikaru game with yuichiro 

-come off very rude if you have never talked to him but is very sweet once you get to know him

-sleeper build fr 

-he doesn’t mind sports but he doesn’t do them unless other people are 

-trades hair care tips from nezuko

-is part of nezuko gossip circle and is the o lot boy part of it

-loves to play Roblox, he likes scamming kids on adopt me

This is my first time writing headcanons so please no hate and I hope you enjoyed ☺️☺️

[mayhem-neverending]

The Big Bad Wolf

Part XXVI

Word Count: 3,081

Warnings: tooth rotting fluff and mentions of death

Notes: Sorry this took so long. I've been pretty mentally drained recently. I hope you all enjoy, though :)

“Hikaru is not going to learn any more fire style jutsu until he’s older, period,” you argued to Obito the next morning. 

He had been pushing the subject since he woke up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes while his mouth ran away from him. You had been consistent with your resounding, ‘no’, but he wasn’t listening very well. 

“Oh c’mon, don’t be like that,”

Your hands found their way to your hips as your face screwed up in a mixture of irritation and disbelief. Obito crossed his arms over his chest. He was disappointed and frustrated because he wanted to teach Hikaru - pass on his wisdom and skill since he didn’t have his own children - and benefit the next generation of shinobi. He had tossed and turned all night thinking about it.

“Obito, he’s going to catch the house on fire. A two year old does not have enough control over their body or their emotions to be playing with fire,” you tried to reason.

“The Uchiha can perform a fireball jutsu at four! He’ll be three in only a couple months, I don’t see why he can’t start learning a little bit now,” he fired at you, a scowl creeping onto his face.

“Because I said, ‘no’, damnit!”

His eyes widened. That was the closest he had ever come to hearing you raise your voice. Immediately after, you sucked in a deep breath and dropped your hands from your hips. You sighed out heavily and then repeated the action. 

“I will consider it after his birthday. But only chakra control at first. If you can teach him basic chakra control, I will allow a small amount of fire style. A SMALL amount, Obito,”

He could have done a victory dance right there in the kitchen. 

“Okay,” he replied, uncrossing his arms. “Deal,”

He took the few remaining steps between you and cupped your face in his large hand. He studied you for a moment, his thumb slowly caressing your cheek. “Y’know, you’re kind of hot when you’re angry,”

You let out a surprised bark of laughter and slapped his hand away. “There’s something wrong with you,”

He shrugged, his eyes glinting with mischief. “Nothing so wrong a kiss couldn’t fix it,”

You shook your head in amusement and let him close the distance between the two of you to press his lips against yours. This man would be the death of you, you were certain of it. 

Kakashi called from his office while you were cooking lunch. You greeted him cheerily and turned the call onto the speaker so Obito could hear, too. 

His voice took on an eerie, toneless quality. “Another clan was massacred in Akujia late last night. No survivors. From what I’ve learned, their weapons are becoming as advanced as our more powerful jutsus,”

You sucked in a breath. “What clan? Why?”

“The Breserya. They took an active role in speaking out against the atrocity Akujia committed against the Zen’in and their stance on chakra control,”

He continued, some strain appearing in his voice. “Somehow, Hina Zen’in and her child have become public knowledge in Konoha, along with new attention on what is happening in Akujia,”

Your mind was reeling with all of the implications of this. Cautiously, you asked, “How does - how does the public feel?”

“Outraged,” he stated. 

Your shoulders sagged a bit. At least they weren’t trying to get rid of Hina. 

“Why are you giving us this information?” Obito asked in a low tone, leaning directly into the receiver.

“A decision has been made to have another Kage Summit. They are demanding the attendance of someone they believe could have crucial insight that could help decide what actions we take… The same Akujian native and Leaf ninja who aided the last surviving Zen’in and brought them to Konoha for safekeeping,”

You and Obito stared at each other in shock. Your mouth was agape as you tried to comprehend Kakashi’s words. Obito shook his head slowly, a sudden and overwhelming fear for your safety flowing through his body in a tidal wave. 

You struggled to swallow with your dry mouth. “You’re joking,”

“I’m sorry,” he sighed out remorsefully. 

You couldn’t see it, but his eyes had closed and brows scrunched together while delivering the last bit of news. 

“What kind of ‘insight’ could I possibly have?” 

“I’m not sure, but I know you’re aware that most of our shinobi countries have such little affiliation with Akujia that we’re essentially in the dark. And with Akujia closing down its borders, it will become incredibly difficult for us to infiltrate for information,”

“I thought you put her here to keep her safe? And now you want to send her who-knows-where?” Obito interjected angrily.

“She’ll be safe with me, Obito,”

“How can you be so sure?” he spat. 

“Did we not fight in the same war?” 

He inhaled sharply through his nose. You put a hand up to prevent him from speaking further. “It’s not your decision,”

You spoke to Kakashi. “I’m assuming that it would not be taken lightly should I refuse to attend,”

“You would be correct in that assessment,” 

“Y/n,” Obito hissed.

“Obito,” you replied warningly, mirroring his narrowed eyes.

“We’ll head out early tomorrow morning for the Land of Iron,” Kakashi cut in. 

“I’ll have a bag packed. It should only take a few days, correct?”

“Should everything go accordingly, yes. Please wear your uniform,”

“Of course. We’ll see you tomorrow,”

The call ended. Obito was somewhere between anxious and fuming, so he stomped away to his room, slamming the door shut behind him. You let him, your own anxiety taking priority over his little fit. He would come back out soon enough to either argue or cling to you or both. You had a bag to pack and food to prepare for your absence, and it would be much harder to get that done while he was being clingy. 

You went to your room, dug out your uniform from the back of the closet and just stared at the dark material. Another mission in such a short amount of time. Once a person became a shinobi, could they ever truly separate from it? You rubbed the black fabric of your shirt between your fingers. You had wanted to give it up. You wanted a slow life with love and a family and without the worry of leaving your son motherless. How many more times would duty call? 

This mission was steeped in uncertainty. You had little to offer the Kages, and less to do with the Akujian atrocities against chakra users. Whatever war you assumed they would begin had no timeframe, and when you add the temperament of a couple of the Kage’s into the mix, it spelled trouble. You mulled over your thoughts while you packed your backpack. You hoped to be of some use, but not enough to keep you away from home any longer than need be. With that in mind, you dropped the heavy bag next to the front door and started for the kitchen.

Obito was in his room another hour before begrudgingly opening his bedroom door. He wanted to be angry with you for deciding to leave, but he couldn’t stay that way for long. He understood that you weren’t really presented with an option, which was really what he was more upset about. That and your safety. He did trust Kakashi and knew how strong he was, but he couldn’t stop the worry. He had just been given a wonderful thing; an opportunity to live a loving life with you and Hikaru. He feared that you wouldn’t make it back to him; it was always a thought in his mind no matter how hard he tried to push it away.

You didn’t speak when he joined you in the kitchen. He stood next to you with his arms crossed, also in silence while you worked. He wanted you to break the ice, but you would not be starting any amends when he was the one who had thrown the fit. He was responsible for himself and he knew it. 

Eventually, he did break the silence with a long sigh. His arms fell to his sides before he moved to snake them around your waist. He tucked his face into your neck and murmured, “I’m sorry,” into your hair.

“For what?”

He huffed and paused, trying to find his words. “For getting upset with you when you didn’t have a real choice,”

You let the words sink in before responding. “Thank you. I’ll accept your apology,”

“Good.” He turned you around so that you were facing him and pressed a kiss to your forehead. 

You couldn’t help but smile and reach up on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek. He followed you back down and the two of you shared a slow kiss that left you feeling dizzy, butterflies erupting in your stomach. You let out a small giggle and he pulled you closer, intoxicated by you for what felt like the millionth time. He just couldn’t get enough. 

“I’m gonna miss you,” you whispered against his lips.

“Shhhh, I don’t want to talk about it,” 

You nodded and resumed the languid caress of your lips. He was so good at making you lose track of time when he had you in his arms like this. Everything slowed and your mind ceased its usual race. Your fingers carded through his hair and his thumb traced circles at your hip, slipping just beneath your shirt. You melted into his touch just as he did yours; harmonies found within each other’s embrace. 

A knock on the door as the female Anbu - a fox - let Hikaru in, broke you and Obito apart. You waved to her and she nodded back before closing the door behind her. Hikaru ambled up to the two of you, and your situation was brought back to the forefront of your mind. Guilt began to gnaw at you as you smiled down at your son. 

“Hey sweetheart, how was school?”

…

The air still smelled of fresh bread and rosemary, mixed with the sweetness of the garden flowers that wafted in through your opened window. It was balmy, but a gentle breeze flowed through the home, carrying on it the singing of cicadas and the twittering of birds that overpowered the low hum of the dishwasher. The sunset cast warm rays onto your clean countertops and over your body as you twirled in your long dress, the skirts swishing gracefully around your ankles. 

Obito pulled you against his chest with a handsome, loving smile that glowed in the light. Your eyes fluttered shut; the feeling of warmth against your skin lulling you in your already serene state. You felt him press a kiss to the top of your head and you gave your intertwined fingers a gentle squeeze. 

Your eyes blinked open to the bedroom, still cold from the waning winter. You groaned aloud and snapped your eyes shut, curling in on yourself under the heavy quilt. Of course it was a dream. The best ones always came before difficult times. You attempted to cling to the peace of the dream, but when it continued to slip from your mind you surrendered and let it go. There was another journey to be had, whether you wanted it or not.

You and Obito had spent the evening cuddling and discussing your departure and what to do with Hikaru while you were away. You were hoping to be back by Sunday, but you could never be sure, so you wrote down all sorts of information for him that he didn’t really need. Obito was incredibly observant and had already picked up on all of the habits, likes and dislikes of your little one, so you weren’t worried. 

Stretching, you eyed the door and wondered if Obito was already up. It was likely that he was awake in bed, waiting for you like a hound waits at the door for its owner every morning. You crept out of bed and quietly opened the door to make your way to the kitchen. Surprisingly, you smelled something suspiciously like breakfast the moment it opened. 

In the kitchen, Obito ladled mix into the waffle maker, chopped fruit and the whipped cream you made the night before spread out on the countertop next to him. You flashed him a giddy smile when he turned to see you approaching and without warning hopped up into his arms and pressed wet kisses on both of his cheeks and mouth.

He just barely caught you and set you down on the opposite counter, taking a place between your legs. He chuckled. “Well, good morning to you, too,”

“You are the absolute best, you know that?” you gushed, smooshing his cheeks in your hands. 

His eyes glittered with joy. “Anything for you,”

You held in a squeal; warmth filling your chest and heart fluttering. You couldn’t help but kiss all over his face again and he let out a delighted laugh before directing you to his lips. One of the waffles burnt while you shared a heated kiss, but neither of you particularly cared at that moment. 

He let you go to toss it and put one of the already made waffles onto a plate for you. He decorated it with fruit and whipped cream and handed it to you with a beaming smile that you swore was brighter than the sun lighting the room. Your eyes roved over him, taking in his bedhead, dark hair spiky in all the wrong places, the lines circling his face, faded hickies, the adorable crinkles in the corner of his eyes as he hovered just in front of you, like he couldn’t stand to stay away. 

“I love you,” you blurted.

His pretty brown eyes widened, and just when you thought his smile would drop, it became impossibly larger. “You… love me?”

You nodded, almost bashfully. Everything happened in a blink of an eye. Your plate was wrenched from your grasp and tossed haphazardly on the counter before you were scooped up into his arms and he was covering you in kisses. Your joyful laughter echoed in the space and sounded like the sweet ringing of bells to his ears. 

When you looked back into his eyes, they glowed with the Sharingan. 

“Say it again,” he said softly.

You could feel the heat all over your face and neck. “I love you,”

He squeezed you so tightly you couldn’t breathe. 

“Obito!” you gasped. 

He loosened his grip just barely and you sucked in a breath. He didn’t sound apologetic at all when he whispered, “Sorry,” into your ear.

He set you back down on the counter and you gazed into each other’s eyes like lovesick fools. The little smack of bare feet against hardwood entered your sphere and you looked around to see Hikaru running out of the hallway. Obito pressed his lips to your cheek while you were turned.

“Oh shit,” he said, looking down beside you.

“Wha- Oh, Obito,” 

The plate he had tossed was broken in two, a mess of sticky fruit on the counter next to you. You decided to ignore it and slipped off the counter to pick Hikaru up. He threw his little arms around your neck and pointed at Obito’s accident.

“Mommy made mess!” 

“You’re right, buddy. Your mommy did make a big mess,” Obito said and you elbowed his side.

“Ouch,” he laughed. 

You set Hikaru up for breakfast, messing up his hair before making yourself a plate. It was a slow process, seeing as Obito couldn’t stop touching you the whole time, but well worth it. You couldn’t help but think that if Hikaru were any older, he would be making fake puking sounds at the two of you. 

You had just sat down and taken a bite when there was a knock on your front door, signaling Kakashi’s arrival. He came in wearing the full Hokage get-up. You realized at that moment you hadn’t had a chance to change. 

“Good morning,” you called, getting up and rushing past him to go get dressed.

You hurriedly pulled on your uniform while Kakashi waited in the kitchen with Obito and Hikaru. 

“I’ve never seen you look so happy,” Kakashi commented. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy,” Obito replied, still high on your words.

Hikaru shoved a bite of waffle into Obito’s mouth. He chewed it up without even blinking, much to Kakashi’s surprise. Obito frowned suddenly, as if a rancid thought had crossed his mind. 

“And now you’ve come to take it away,”

“Only for a few days,” Kakashi replied immediately, trying to reassure his friend. 

“A few days too long,” Obito muttered sullenly. 

“I’ll be back before you know it,” you called out in a sing-song as you came down the hallway. 

You were fully dressed, and Obito once again had to take a moment to appreciate you. He loved how sleek and powerful you looked in your uniform, like you could take on even the worst of the worst with that little attitude you took in it. He glanced at Kakashi who was already looking at him. 

“Obito, did you hear a word I said?” You asked, a hand going to your hip.

“Uh, yeah,”

“What did I say?”

“Uhm…. I don’t know,”

You chuckled. “I asked if you thought you had everything under control,”

“Oh, yeah, for sure,” he replied a little more confidently than he felt.

“Good,” you approached him and gave him a quick peck. “I’ll be back soon,”

You then pulled Hikaru into a big hug and gave his cheeks a few playful smooches. Obito looked at Kakashi’s raised brow and the red tinting the tips of his ears and raised his own brow back. He felt his pride swell to a ridiculous height. He was all ego the second you put Hikaru down, standing up and pulling you in for a deeper kiss. 

You pushed back on his chest. In a scandalized tone you gasped, “Obito!”

He shot you a devilish grin and a wink that would be occupying your mind for the next few nights you were away. You decided he would definitely be paying for that when you returned. 

He didn’t apologize, just told you a quick goodbye and that he would miss you before you were carted off by Kakashi, who was very suddenly in a rush.

Taglist: @mostlyunsure, @humongousdreamlandbear, @ichaichahatake, @mandy-yeager, @detectivestucks, @faces-ofvenus

[frostfires-blog]

Shiguang Dailiren/Link Click

Hanakotoba Analysis

Cheng Xiaoshi/Toki -> Daisy (Bellis)

Cheng Xiaoshi/Toki’s official flower is the Daisy (Bellis) as pictured on his official birthday artwork. Daisies are known as chú jú (雏菊) in Chinese and hinagiku (雛菊) in Japanese. This flower is associated with the meanings of “innocence”, “devotion”, “justice”, “charity” and “beauty” in English floriography. Its hanakotoba meanings are “peace”, “hope”, “beauty” and “chastity”. In Japanese culture, daisies are also often associated with new beginnings and are thought to bring joy and happiness to those whom it is gifted.  In China, the flower is mainly associated with innocence, purity, hope, and new beginnings. Additionally, they can symbolize simplicity, sincerity, springtime, happiness, and new love.  Cheng Xiaoshi is best described as someone with a good heart whose playful, stubborn and impulsive nature can be interpreted by others as being childish and irresponsible. He is extremely sensitive and deeply empathetic with a strong sense of justice. These characteristics paired with his impulsiveness often not only lead to him making decisions with his heart rather than his head—landing not only himself but also those around him in a myriad of tricky situations—but also result in him doing things that are in the best interest of others but are detrimental to himself. These traits tie into the flower’s meanings of justice, charity and devotion. His seemingly boundless optimism and upbeat personality complement the flower’s meanings of joy, happiness, and springtime. When Lu Guang was asked by Qiao Ling, what attracted him to Cheng Xiaoshi, he stated that it was the other’s naivety. This ties into the flower’s meanings of innocence, sincerity, purity and simplicity. Cheng Xiaoshi has the ability to enter the time of any photo by possessing the body of the person who took the photo. Using this ability, he is able to directly change the events within a 12-hour timeline of the photo (i.e., alter past events). This ties into the daisy’s meanings of new beginnings and hope.  Additionally, when using this ability, Cheng Xiaoshi’s eyes turn gold-yellow which corresponds with the yellow-centre of the daisy.

Lu Guang/Hikaru -> Forget-me-not

Lu Guang/Hikaru’s official flower is the forget-me-not as pictured on his official birthday artwork. The forget-me-not (Myosotis) is known as wù wàng wǒ  (勿忘我) in Chinese and wasurenagusa (勿忘草) in Japanese. As its name suggests the flower is associated with the meanings of “true love” and “memories” in English floriography. Its Japanese name means “don’t forget me” thus associating the flower with its hanakotoba meanings of “true love” and “remembrance”. In China, the flower is associated with not only true love and memories but also fidelity and faithfulness. Lu Guang is typically calm, patient, responsible and uptight. Although not always blatantly obvious, Lu Guang cares deeply for his friends and always does things that are in their best interest. Although typically stoic and cautious, when those important to Lu Guang are in danger, he will break his usual calm façade and show anger and concern as well as pull off precarious manoeuvres to save them. These traits tie into the flower’s meanings of faithfulness and fidelity. Lu Guang has the ability to see everything that happens within a 12-hour timeframe after a photo has been taken. Photographs are able to capture important moments with loved ones in order to be preserved and looked back upon at a later date. Lu Guang and Cheng Xiaoshi’s abilities rely on photographs and are used to analyse and manipulate memories, respectively. This further links Lu Guang to the forget-me-not flower. Additionally, when using their respective abilities Lu Guang’s eyes turn ice-blue whereas Cheng Xiaoshi’s turn gold-yellow which corresponds with the yellow-centred, blue blossoms of the forget-me-not, respectively. Click here for further analysis of Lu Guang given new information from season 2.

Qiao Ling/Rin -> Hyacinth

Qiao Ling/Rin’s official flower is the hyacinth as pictured on her official birthday artwork. The hyacinth (Hyacinthus) is known as fēng xìn zǐ (风信子) in Chinese and haiashinsu (ヒヤシンス) in Japanese. The hyacinth is seen as a symbol of sophistication, refinement, grace and elegance in English floriography. It is also known as a symbol of love and passion. It is also sometimes associated with rashness, games and rebirth. Its hanakotoba meanings are friendship, affection and “love beyond sorrow”. The bright colours of hyacinths are said to represent joy and happiness―and is thus seen as a gesture of goodwill when gifted to others in Japanese culture. In China, the flower is associated with good luck and fortune and is thus often used during special occasions and celebrations as an auspicious decoration. It is said that the hyacinth’s bright colours and cheerful blossoms bring prosperity and good luck to those who see it. Qiao Ling is best described as outspoken, expressive, and compassionate. She deeply trusts those she is close to and is very protective over them. Qiao Ling typically possesses a playful and upbeat personality. These traits tie into the hyacinth’s meanings of joy, passion, friendship and goodwill. Although often seen bickering with Cheng Xiaoshi―she retains an air of gracefulness and ladylikeness and often dresses very stylishly, which fits in with the flower’s meanings of elegance, grace and sophistication.

Official Art Celebrating 400 Million Views

In this official art the flower bouquet that Cheng Xiaoshi is holding might be his official flower the daisy (Bellis) but could also be camomile flowers. Camomile also known as chamomile is a daisy-like plant in the same family as the Bellis genus (Asteraceae family). Camomile is known as  yáng gān jú (洋甘菊) in Chinese and kamomīru (カモミール) in Japanese. In English floriography, the flower represents the concepts of having “patience in adversity” and “energy in adversity”. In hanakotoba, the flower conveys the meanings of “enduring adversity” and the “power to be born in adversity”. Both the English and Japanese meanings derive from the fact that camomile grows like a creeper on the ground and persists even if trampled on―even growing stronger the more it is stepped on. These meanings greatly complement Cheng Xiaoshi’s immense optimism, endurance, and perseverance that persists despite him being faced with difficult circumstances and harsh obstacles.

In this official artwork, Lu Guang isn’t pictured with his official flower, the forget-me-not but is instead pictured with a bouquet of statice.  Statice (Limonium) is also known as sea lavender and marsh rosemary despite not being related to either lavender or rosemary. Statice is known as bǔxuè cǎo shǔ (补血草属) in Chinese and sutāchisu (スターチス) in Japanese. Similarly, to forget-me-nots, this flower is associated with memory and remembrance. In English floriography, this flower represents “longing”, “remembrance”, “success” and “sympathy”. Purple statice in particular represents suppleness and elegance. The hanakotoba meanings associated with statice are “unchanging heart” and “uninterrupted memory”. The vibrant colour of these flowers does not fade even when dried. This attribute has resulted in its hanakotoba meanings “unchanging heart”, “uninterrupted memory”, and “eternal immutability”.  These meanings are similar to that of the forget-me-not and consequently complement Lu Guang’s character in a similar manner.

[If you liked this post, check out my other hanakotoba analysis posts here ❀ There are 2 other hanakotoba posts on Link Click on my blog...]

[P.S. If anyone knows which two flowers are in the very first image in this post (i.e., the season 2 key visual), please let me know so I can add them...I couldn't figure it out for the life of me. Also, if I've gotten any of the kanji, romaji, hanzi or pinyin incorrect, feel free to correct me]

[twisted-wonderland-but-gayer]

I can imagine an Eldritch! Yuu being oblivious to most modern human customs. Poor baby hasn't seen the light of day since before the Great Seven walked the Earth. Give them a break.

Obviously, they don't show anything near their true form around the cast, lest they wish to lose their minds in one of the most gruesome ways possible. However, I can see them messing around, trying to gift the first-year gang, and even the rest of the cast, some… questionable presents. Most don't have the heart or are too scared to decline when they look so proud of themself. For instance, one time, it was Sebek’s birthday, and on the surface, that's fine… until Eldritch! Yuu decided to prepare a gift in accordance with ancient fae traditions with a touch of something for their old realm. Let’s just say Sebek didn't sleep well for many weeks after that. He didn't have the heart to throw it out. Not only was it made by a friend, but he could still feel its eyes boring into him, even if it was covered or hidden.

The worst part is that this isn't the only time this has happened. Yuu continues to gift these mistakes of God to people. If asked about the gifts, Yuu looks at the person confused.

Teehee. Hope you have a good day

We have a few eldritch yuus including a cannibal and shadow monster one on here, I did also speak about a king in yellow one.

Though I do like this concept of an eldtrich Yuu I think it's so much more interesting of they seem to blend in too much, or if they just seem like a weird human until they chose to show their powers, (ex: removing their head to take off Riddles collar.) And then pretending nothing happened. Everyone knows there is something deeply wrong with Yuu but don't know what and they can't prove it either

Think of the manga The Summer Hikaru Died. One of my most anticipated Mangas to get and read

Also dude you sent this twice

[kanaokanzaki-op]

🩷🪻HAPPY BIRTHDAY KANA 🩷🪻

[You may notice some of these are similar to official art, that's because it is I'm already crying over this fact.]

November 14th marks Kana's birthday, one of the phew things she remembers from her past despite never celebrating it!

SPECIAL THANKS TO @matthew-knyshait AND @tired-writer-in-progress's OC FOR CELEBRATING WITH HERRR (I asked In my community who wants to join, if you wanna join let me know!)

-Sanemi is clearly annoyed at Zenitsu's blabbering about what he usually does -Kanao made that gift herself -Togo is with Hikaru, Kana's crow who is about to peck someone's eye out(Was debating drawing Togo passed out, should've) -Kota is just unsure where to sit/hj -Aoi baked the cake as her gift -Shinobu giggling at Kana's little stories, despite wanting scold her -Me crying off camera because I didn't have time to add Genya, Nezuko and Kanae.

[larz-barz]

✨ZENO ARAKAWA IS BAE✨💗💕

@kimetsu-chan

✨SATOSHI SENOMI IS BAE✨💕😮‍💨

@shycroissanti

✨RORY NIGHTSHADE IS BAE✨🥰💕

@aceofstars0

✨KAITO YASEI IS BAE✨

@sweetstarryeyedgirl

✨HIROYUKI KAJIWARA IS BAE✨

@tokito-dulya20

✨SEBASTION DELYON IS BAE✨

@shycroissanti

✨ALEX IS BAE✨

@shycroissanti

Blog rules

1. I’m a minor so no nsfw stuff in my inbox pls:)

2. I’m not allowed to dm so if you wanna talk, pls do it through my ask box:D

3. No hate please! If you go anon and send hate and I figure out who you are I’ll block you.

Masterlist #2:D

Milo’s character sheet

Milo’s drawing reference (old, redesign is further down)

I’m sorry (Basil x Milo)

New Addition (GiYuMiLo)

Teaching an angel (Yuto x Milo)

A knight’s duty (Hachikazu x Milo)

Here for you (Satoshi x Milo)

My persona

Changes (Zeno x Kitari)

Unbearable news (Milo centered)

Your warmth (Hasuki x Milo)

You’re safe now angel (Kaito x Milo)

Comfort cuddles (Yuto x Milo)

It’s ok sweetheart (Obanai x Reader)

Opposite personality (Milo centered)

Sleepy kitty (Hikaru and Milo)

Kitari head-canons

It won’t go away.. (Zeno x Kitari)

Taking risks, saving lives (Milo in Mugen Train)

Updated Milo info post

Brother from another mother (Hikaru and Milo)

How I think Milo’s (hypothetical) death would impact the demon slayer corps

All lies (Yuto x Milo)

Meeting (Hasuki x Milo)

Stomach ache (Yuto x Milo)

Ice cream (Hachikazu x Milo)

Sleepy assistance (Hiroyuki x Milo)

My rp accounts

Argument (Yuto x Milo)

Safe now.. (Yuto x Milo) (part 2 of Argument)

Milo’s thoughts on the other hashiras

Darling (Zeno x Kitari)

Birthday stickering (Hikaru birthday fic)

Birthday struggles (Ayuna birthday fic)

Comfort in your arms (Yuto x Milo)

Sacrifice (Yuto x Milo)

Tag list

Milo in the pint sized pillars au head canons

Lost in a storm (Yuto x Milo)

Separated (Suzuki siblings centered)

Sibling shenanigans (Suzuki siblings and Zeno)

My ocs ages

All of my kny ocs

In each other’s arms (Basil x Milo)

Hype boy (Zeno x Kitari)

The bigger simp (Zeno x Kitari and Tanjiro x Milo)

Injury repair (Sebastian x Yuina)

My tumblr family!!

As if it was fate (Senjuro x Milo)

Milo’s redesign

In her time of need (Hikaru and Milo)

Tanjmilo stories

Mistletoe

Destroyed

Lost bow

At fault

Guilt

Shock

Not an inconvenience

Milorius stories

Unique demons

Picnic date

“Don’t worry, princess.. I’m okay..”

Requests

Soft ears (Obanai x Ayuna)

Strong enough (Shinobu and Leah)

Gingerbread house (Basil x Milo)

Library date (Basil x Milo)

First meeting (Obanai x Hanako)

Secret place (Muichiro x Kiyoka)

Katsaridaphobia (Obanai x Ayuna)

A helping hand (Ilona and Milo)

Calm down my love (Giyuu x reader)

Kitty comfort (Milo and big sister! reader)

Falling stars (Basil x Milo)

Wanting to forget (Muichiro x Koname)

Puppet show (Gyomei and Ames)

Silent comfort (Milo and big sister! reader)

Wingwoman (Basil x Milo)

Stress comfort (Ayuna x Obanai) (emergency req)

Comfort from little sis (Milo and older sibling reader) (emergency req)

Lost bow (Tanjiro x Milo)

Hide and seek shenanigans (Michika and Milo centered)

Already gone (Shiina and Milo)

Guilt (Tanjiro x Milo)

Overwhelmed (Zeno x Kitari)

Hide and seek shenanigans: part two (Michika and Milo centered)

Similar but different personalities (Milo and Haruta)

Plushie mischief (Milo and Ames centered)

Comforting flame (Kyojuro x Kaori) (emergency req)

Star-crossed lovers (Hachikazu x Milo)

Girl talk (Shiina and Milo)

Cold day (Obanai x Hanako)

Low energy (Obanai x Ayuna)

Forgotten (Hideaki x Milo)

Nawovuherszki’s lazy day head canons

The hashiras’ thoughts on Kianna

Tiny but mighty (Obanai x Ayuna, tiny 21 trio au)

Taking care of her (Shou x Milo)

Spending time together (Kyojuro x Kaori, and Senjuro)

Gentle (Kadaj x Milo)

Motivated (Milo and big sister! reader) (emergency req)

Hard day (Kansatoki and Amaya)

Anons: 🎈

[1-800reki]

𑁍ࠬܓ One-shot/ SMAUS/ Texts Made By Me :3 .ᐟ

𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠. . .

ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇᴛᴇ!

ᴺᴼᵂ ᴾᴸᴬᵞᴵᴺᴳ : Masterlist!

► ▌▌ ■

Key!: ★ = Oneshot and ♡ = Smau or Texts!

: ̗̀➛ Haikyuu!

Kenma: Domestic Fluff, Time Skip (Title: Streamer Husband!) ★

Kenma: Birthday Special !! (Title: Happy birthday!!)☆

Shoyou: Silly Crush, Cannon Timeline (Title: Shoyo’s Crush!) ★

Tobio: First Meet! ← Title! ★

Tadashi: Freckles! ← Title! ★

Kei: Dinosaurs, Time Skip ← Title! ★

Ukai: Married! (Title: Married Life!) ★

Koshi: Dating! (Title: Koshi’s Partner!) ★ 

Daichi: Captain x Captain (Title: Two Captains!) ★

Asahi: Volleyball x Art Club (Title: My Muse!) ★

Yuu: Jealousy! (Title: Jealous boy!) ★

Ryu: Making up! ← Title! ★

Kiyoko: Secretly Dating (Not really) (Title: Kiyoko’s Partner?!) ★

Yachi: Dating! (Title: Best Girlfriend Ever!) ★

Texting them 'I miss you' ← Title! (Texts!) ♡

: ̗̀➛ Sk8!

Reki: Skating x Music (Title: The Melody!)★

Langa: Love at first sight! ← Title! ★

Kaoru: Dating! (Title: Cherry’s Partner!) ★

Kojiro: Marriage Life!! (Title: He's WHAT?!) ★

Miya: Silly little dates! ← Title! [Complete]★

Asking them on a date! ← Title!! (Complete!) ♡

Miya (req): Req!! Miya HC ← Title!! [Complete]

Sk8 Tweets!! <- Title!! (theres no yn so its just the characters :3)

: ̗̀➛ Bungo Stray Dogs!

Atsushi: Dating! (Title: Atsushi’s Partner!) ★

Dazai: Secretly Dating Coworkers! (Title: You’re What?!) ★

Ranpo: Silly Notes! (Title: Lunch Notes!) (Idea from an anonymous person!) [Completed!]★

Kunikida: Married! (He’s alive trust) (Title: Agency Finds Out!) ★

Fukazawa: Married! (Title: Lunch!) ★

Yosano: Silly dates! (Title: Dates with Yosano!) ★

Kenji: Silly cuties! (Title: Best Day!) ★

Kyoka: Silly cuties! (Title: I like you!) ★

Chuuya: Married! (Title: Chuuya’s… What?!) ★

Akutagawa: Dating! (Title: Nickname!) ★

Poe: Cuties! (Title: Story Time!) ★

Sigma: Cuties! (Title: Date Time!) ★

Ada + Chuuya and Akutagawa as your parents (Title: Asking Your Parents for Money!) (SMAU) ♡

: ̗̀➛ OHSHC!

Tamaki: Yapper x Listener (Title: Tamaki’s Fav Customer!) ★

Haruhi: Different School! (Title: Haruhi has a what?!) [Completed!]★

Hikaru: Silly! (Title: Cuties!) ★

Kaoru: Silly! (Title: Power Duo!) ★ 

Mori: Sunshine x Moon (Title: Blabbermouth!) ★

Kyoya: Organized x Not organized (Title: What A Mess!) ★

Honey: Not serious x serious (Title: Grumpy Face!) ★

Texting them 'I love you' Randomly ← Title (SMAU) ♡

: ̗̀➛ Saiki K!

Kusuo: Nonchalant x Energetic (Title: Saiki’s What?!)★

Shun: They don't believe him! (Title: What A Cutie!) ★

Riki: Ugly x Pretty! (Title: Nendou.. What?!) ★

Aren: Soft spot for you! (Title: The Sillies!) ★

Kokomi: Pretty x Pretty! (Title: Teruhashi’s What?!) ★

Chiyo: Sillies! (Title: Mistakes!) ★

Chisato: Always hungry x Has food (Title: Cooking Date!) ★

Metori: Spoils you! (Title: Shopping Time!) ★

Aiura: Sillies! (Title: Good Luck!) ★

Texting them good morning ← Title! (Texts!) ♡

END!

MORE COMING SOON (WHEN I HAVE IDEAS)

𑁍ࠬܓ AKIRA OUT :3 .ᐟ

[laugtherhyena]

Caved in and gave Akira the silly mouth fang i always draw Kizuna with

This doubles as the post for me to shove random information about them i decided to separate these from the other two info posts so those could stay character specific :]

-They know each other since they were kids! Akira first met Beni when Kizuna brought her to the foundation to get a check-up done by Hikaru and while waiting for her exam Beni suddently came up to her and pulled on Akira's hoodie, which startled her but turns out she just wanted to take a good look at the pattern on it since Beni really like that sorta stuff and didn't realise she shouldn't have just grabbed her like that.

-Kizuna introduced Beni to her and the two talked for the rest of the waiting time and from that interaction alone Akira already considered Beni her friend, which led to her asking her moms if she could come to the foundation with them more often so they could talk more. On the other hand Beni didn't get that memo and only realized her and Akira were friends after the two had been seeing eachother for a while.

-As a kid it really bothered Beni how much stuff her family wouldn't tell her, like why she couldn't stay with he dad around the med bay or how Kanata died, because she felt like they were treating her like an idiot and keeping things from her. But Akira talked so much she basically knew everything about her life in a couple days which is why she liked being around her so much.

-Akira had been bullied pretty badly back at the orphanage/shelter she used to live in so Beni was the first kid she interacted with that was nice and friendly to her (which is why she became so easily glued to her), she felt really lucky to have someone like that in her life which is why Akira nicknamed her Clover, as in, a good luck clover.

-She avoided telling her the reason for the nickname for the longest time because she thinks it’s kinda embarrassing, but Beni found it incredibly sweet and comforting too, since she sometimes she wonders why the people she's closest to bother keeping up with her when she's been rude/mean to them a couple times in the past (even though she always apologizes and doesn't really mean what she was saying)

-Beni’s necklace was a birthday gift from Akira! Despite her bad memory she never forgets the date because of the song September by Earth, wind and fire (she's absolutely sung it to annoy her on a few occasions)

-She’s a Kizuna kid after all so you bet Akira teases Beni to get a reaction out of her, she also likes to lift her up and hug/spin her around like she's a silly stuffed animal. She just thinks she looks so so cute when she's blushing, and sometimes will get into this dumbassery and have a good laugh.

-Beni tends to remind Akira of where she's left things or stuff she needs to tend to since her memory can often fail at that, she's also tried her best to comfort her whenever Akira's gotten scared/worried that her memory is getting worse and advises her to look for a doctor to get that checked.

-Akira often calls her at late hours of the night just to ask how her day has been, tell her what she's doing or talk about random shit since she knows Beni is almost certainly still awake either getting things done from work or studying and from that they'll spend hours on call.

-Sometimes Beni will let Akira work on dyeing her hair again or just tending to it with special products since Beni doesn't really bothering taking great care of it. In one of these occasions she accidentally dyed her hair pink and that's the worst fight the two ever had where Beni lashed out at her for it and spent 2 days without taking to Akira (partially because she was mad but also really worried/scared she may have ruined their friendship with that argument)

-During the short period Akira worked at the foundation she would use that as an opportunity to hang out with Beni during lunch breaks and whenever she wasn't too busy. It was then that she started trying to show Beni she liked her more than just a friend, but it took a while for anything to come out of that because struggled to tell if she was just being extra affectionate/friendly or if she was showing interest in her that way.

-It takes Beni straight up asking Akira if she likes her when they're sitting at the roof of this party Akira dragged her into coming (the amount of people and all the noise overwhelmed Beni so he went there to get away from it) for Akira confess her feelings and the two start dating.

-This is a somewhat common occurrence since Beni tends to stick to doing things she's used to and Akira is super outgoing, so it takes her convincing Beni to come along to more unusual places with her like parties, festivals or the beach. Sometimes Beni has a great time, sometimes she gets annoyed but still enjoys it by the end and other times she regrets coming along in the first place, whenever that happens Akira always ends up going after her regardless of what she's doing.

-They tend to hang out mostly around malls, cafes/restaurants and even the Kisaragi foundation still, but another thing the two do together a lot is a slumber party of sorts where they watch a bunch of movies or video essays together.

-Since Beni doesn't deal well with loud atmospheres/noises she doesn't listen to Akira's music all that much since her style is pretty loud, she does support her in other ways such as reading a more organized version of the lyrics of new songs she's working on and giving her thoughts on it and suggesting a few word changes.

-When Akira's first big concert was coming up she gave tickets to her family, friends and to Beni. She made it clear that there was no pressure if she didn't want to come because of all the noise, but she wanted her to have the ticket anyway. Beni ended up going to the concert since she knew how important it was for Akira, she ended up with a terrible headache but thought it was worth it because Akira was overjoyed to see her there.

[definitelynotgideon]

Hey! Thanks for checking out this blog. Mostly, I started this up as a means to post chapters as I write for my OC, but I'd love to interact in other ways! Feel free to ask Gideon or I questions, or chat with me in DMs or comments!

Below you'll find an about me section, an about my oc section, my current activity status (hoping to update that with projects I'm working towards or to give heads ups if i'm busy/ on hiatus, a links section and a masterlist section.

Please do not interact with me or Gideon if you are transphobic or homophobic.

All of my blogs are safe spaces for the LGBTQ community and you will be blocked without question if you interact hatefully with me, my character or my friends.

Amanda or Ackie | she/her | 33 yrs old | Birthday on April 30

@ackie-slays is my main. I interact on both but I'm here on this blog more often!

Gideon Azulyss is my OC that I've adapted for different universes/ scenarios over time. He started out as a D&D Character, and then I RPed with him in the Attack on Titan universe. As I fell in love with Demon Slayer, I wanted to bring him in and adapt him for the universe. I RP with him still for Demon Slayer, but the more I wrote with him with friends, the more I wanted to tell his canon-ish story.

Gideon is 5'8", athletically built with silver hair styled in an undercut. his eyes are green, with flecks of gold that become more visible when he's upset or angry. he styles his facial hair in a goatee. He is a war-hammer wielder, and in the demon slayer universe he is a thunder breather. His birthday is August 21. Gideon is a gay man, pronouns are he/him. His age varies by story.

Headcanons/Fact posts can be seen by clicking the fruits below!

🍓 | 🍉 | 🫐

Writing Status: Small fic hiatus 💝 11/3/24

Roleplay Status: My Roleplay status for Tumblr RPs is limited. Here are my updated rules and boundaries.

Also RN my responses for any RP blog I have are slow AF I'm so sorry 🥲

Archive of our own (AO3): definitelynotgideon

The Demons We Face (Genya x OC/mlm) Chapters (Abridged chapters will be marked with ⚡️, Fully Mature/NSFW Chapters will be routed directly to Ao3 and marked ⛈️):

Ch 1 | Ch 2 | Ch 3 | Ch 4 | Ch 5 | Ch 6 | Ch 7 | Ch 8 | Ch 9 | Ch10 | Ch11 | Ch12 | Ch13⚡️ | Ch 14 | Ch 15 | Ch16⚡️ | Ch 17 | Ch 18 | Ch 19 | Ch 20

One-shots

"Heaven Is Where You Are"

"Forest"

Roleplay Threads! | Completed Thread Links. This does not include short interactions!

- Big Brother, Beetle-hunt, Battlestar Galactica!!! 🪲 / #HikaruIsBestAniki #HikaruforPresident | RP with @ask-hikaru-eritora

- I tried to draw you from memory. ✏️/ Gideon draws Genya! G-Force content! | RP with @real-genya-shinazugawa

- "GET THE FUCK OUT OF BED BITCH GO" 🎒 / Kimetsu Academy AU! Gideon runs to wake Karu before a midterm exam! | RP with @ask-hikaru-eritora

- Demon Encounter!! 💚 / Gideon meets Ryotaro! Is this demon mom-shaped? Lol | RP with @bone-pile-rp

Pt 1 | Pt 2 | Pt 3 | Pt 4 | Pt 5 | Pt 6 | Pt 7 | Pt 8

- Origami Rose 🌹 / Gideon asks Muichiro about Origami. | RP with @ask-tokito-muichiro

- Try 🐇/ Gideon meets Koorogi. It's an injured demon, and he faces a choice... | RP with @koorogi-final-selection-oni-a

[putschki1969]

【Lyric Video】 Koganeiro no Yakusoku 【short ver.】

Last night, Hikaru's 9th digital single titled "黄金色の約束" was released. She first performed the song at the Mugi no Autumn Music Festival on May 12th. Lyrics: Hikaru; Composition/Arrangement: hoto-D Some thoughts: I ldon't mind it. I ike the calm vibe and the build-up to the chorus with the "chiisana" section but the chorus itself is only meh. It has a promising start but then it doesn't really do enough for me to hold my attention. Also wish she wouldn't have gone so high on some of those parts, not the most flattering I'm afraid and I don't think it fits the overall atmosphere of the song. Her prior releases as freelance solo artist include Survivor, Escape, Flow, Awe, Treasure, Remain, Embrace, Kiseki

LIKE her videos/SUBSCRIBE to her channel! Buy/Stream: https://linkco.re/52fa8pCU?lang=en

Also check out Hikaru's last two videos on her channel! Haven't gotten around to posting them yet.

【Qoo10】Skin care => Make-up

Sharing Everyone's Heartwarming Moments

This one was quite fun. Hikaru had asked people in her Instagram story to submit moments that had made their hearts skip a beat (in a romantic or platonic manner). You can tell that Hikaru really relates to the stories that involve children.

『Hikaru B-day LIVE 2024』 Keiko Appearance Secured

The past few weeks have been dedicated to Hikaru's latest challenge on Music Champ wherein people need to buy items and send them during the live stream in order to build up to a certain power level. The goal of this time's challenge was to secure Keiko as a special guest for Hikaru’s birthday live in July. Although Hikaru had technically already announced/confirmed her as a guest but they always have to come up with some sort of contrived reason to justify the existence of these ridiculous challenges (can you tell that I'm still not a fan of the app?) On May 22 (Wednesday), she did a collab live stream with her fellow Ambient Border cast members Yuki Sasaki and Yumi Agawa. On June 2 (Sunday) she did a special live broadcast at the Music Champ studio. It was a bit longer than her Wednesday streams and at the end she performed Kiseki. Unfortunately, both lives were blocked for screen recording. I thought we'd left that behind us but most of her recent stuff has been blocked again T_T

Title: 『Hikaru B-day LIVE 2024 -love Begets love-』 Date: July 2, 2024 Venue: duo MUSIC EXCHANGE Time: open 18:00 / start 19:00 🔥Band Members: Key. TACOS NAOMI @TACOS_NAOMI Gt. HaKA @onimaru_otokage Mp. hoto-D @hoto_D 🔥Guest: KEIKO @KeikoStaff 💝

Hikaru and atsuko (from angela)

Hikaru got together with atsuko (one half of the duo "angela" who regularly performed alongside Kalafina at various anime events). Atsuko was also seen attending the latest Yuki Kajiura tour performance and was featured in Keiko's Instagram post. Tweet by Hikaru | Instagram post by atsuko

[cheesenjoyer]

GUYS GUYS EVERYONE EVERYWHERE!!!!!!!! PLEASE BE MY BUDDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i like a lot of stuff n stuff and im 🆒 moray under the cut:33

stuff i like

vanitas no carte/the case study of vanitas

splatoon (PLEASEEEE PLAY IT WITH MEEEE)

eels

the summer hikaru died

garfield

omori

warioware games (LIVE LAIGH ASHLEY)

school bus graveyard(the webtoom)

pjsk

in stars and time

lots of other stuff just ask :33

music i like!!!!

the front bottoms

panuccis pizza (GUHHHHHH THE BEST)

the scary jokes

sodikken

splatunes

other stuff too + ill losten to stuff u want me to listen to,, friend me on airbuds!!!!

otoboke beave

crywank

mccafferty

kimya dawson

stuff about me :3

im reallu bad at typing 💔

i like drawing little critters

i tryan squeeze eels into everything i say

pepper jack cheese is my favorite food

i have 3 cats pitpat the fat and phill the chill and tomfoolery the fool

my birthdays on november 30th and im 15 💥(idc how old u r as long as yr not gonna be wierd abt ir)

i like watching tv and reading stuff

my room is a MESS but theres plants so its FRESH

FRESH MESS

stuff yiu can add me on :3(most pref to least pref)

discord- pepperjackcheeser

the great great world of tunblr- cheesenjoyer

snapchat- coolerestester

thats it i think (woohoo)

[love-anteros]

music taste of the ouran host club ᐟᐟ☆ .ᐟ

—personal ouran headcanons ♡ —some taylor swift hc inspo from @cold-heart-warm-writings

haruhi fujioka

definitely a mitski girlie.

fav songs off mitski’s discography: “my love mine all mine,” “first love / late spring,” “class of 2013,” “once more to see you”

tamaki always recommends taylor swift songs to them; ends up enjoying folklore (“invisible string,” “august”) 

hc from tiktok (@/gyuldangie): tamaki told them that “when emma falls in love” reminded him of their relationship, and haruhi says that the song’s just ok. he later sees the song saved on her favorite playlist … :)

also enjoys ichiko aoba & lamp

tamaki pays for their duo spotify premium account ♡

exchanges song recommendations w kaoru; definitely has a few phoebe songs on their playlists

listens to red velvet w hani on occasion 

tamaki suoh

hardcore swiftie. definitely bought front row seats + backstage passes for the eras tour and begged the entire host club to accompany him.

speak now + lover stan, loves a few songs off rep, 1989, & fearless 

“haruhi, do you think taylor thought of me when she wrote ‘king of my heart’ & ‘gorgeous’ ?~ “

“i absolutely believe that taylor pictured our beloved romance when she wrote lover, haruhi .ᐟ~”

fav songs off taylor’s discography: “lover,” “paper rings,” “you are in love,” “speak now,” “enchanted,” “love story”

also likes other pop artists: katy perry (“teenage dream,” “california girls”) harry styles (“adore you”)

a bit of classical piano mixed into his playlist; immediate jump from taylor to chopin when his spotify is on shuffle

he is absolutely a laufey fan .ᐟ (dedicated the entire bewitched album to haruhi … )

listens to a bit of mitski b/c of haruhi: “ hm … i think that ‘my love mine all mine’ reminds me of you, my lovely haruhi :) “

enjoys tv girl & ricky montgomery recs from haruhi: “lovers rock,” “mr. loverman,” “my heart is buried in venice,” “boy toy,” “line without a hook” ♡

hani introduced him to kpop, & he absolutely loves a few svt, nct, & txt songs .ᐟ — “perfume,” “to you,” “imperfect love,” “light a flame,” “way home”

hikaru hitachiin 

frank ocean, tyler the creator, the weeknd 

“white ferrari,” “are we still friends,” “ivy,” “super rich kids,” “new magic wand,” “escape from la,” “foreword” .ᐟ

kaoru introduced him to rex orange county; likes “corduroy dreams,” “uno,” “open a window”

that one scene where hikaru comforts haruhi during the thunder storm? his headphones were def playing “sunflower” by rex orange county 

kaoru hitachiin

phoebe bridgers, gracie abrams ☼

“i know it won’t work,” “i know the end,” “kyoto,” “motion sickness,” “garden song,” “where do we go now?”

likes a few taylor songs from red + folklore

a sucker for “all too well” — 10 minute ver.

absolutely sobbed to “i guess” by mitski; recommended by haruhi °˖➴ (“i guess this is the end / i’ll have to learn / to be somebody else / it’s been you and me / since before i was me / without you, i don't yet know / quite how to live”)

kyoya ootori 

matt maltese .ᐟ

tamaki learned how to play the piano part of “when you wash your hair” for kyoya’s birthday ♡

fav songs from matt maltese’s discography: “as the world caves in,” “everyone adores you (at least i do),” “krystal,” “smile in the face of the devil,” “little person”

definitely does NOT cry & think about tamaki when he listens to “wish you’d ask me” .ᐟ

… secretly enjoys twice & attended a concert w hani + mori; mina bias 

small crush on yeonjun from txt

listens to mac demarco w haruhi (“one more love song,” “for the first time,” “heart to heart”)

a few classical piano songs recommended by tamaki on his favorite playlist ♡ 

mitsukuni "hani" haninozuka 

diehard twice stan.

nayeon + momo bias 

also likes loona (esp chuu .ᐟ) & txt

♡ “blue hour” (& the other songs on minisode1: blue hour), “pop,” “heart attack,” “love countdown,” “chocolate” (day6), “polaroid love”

definitely doxxed a 12 yr. old b/c they said that nayeon flopped w her solo debut °˖➴ (he already didn’t have enough sleep that day after trying to get twice concert tickets all night … )

tried listening to kanye during his middle school “tough guy” phase … hated it.

listens to taylor every now & then w tamaki; fearless & speak now stan

takashi "mori" morinozuka 

looks like he’d be the type of guy to listen to frank ocean & tyler the creator … listens to the most basic music in existence. (still love mori, though .ᐟ )

… imagine dragons 

listened to “high hopes” by p!atd on loop.

probably likes some drake songs 

listens to kpop w hani though & takes him to concerts; hani would sit on top of his shoulders so he could see the stage

—+ regardless of their diverse music tastes, they all bond over olivia rodrigo & definitely had a sleepover where they listened to the entire guts album ♡

—+ also, ik that ouran takes place in the early 2000s & they definitely wouldn't be listening to modern western music + kpop, but oh well .ᐟ (this is just a reflection of my own music taste, i think ... )

[thesconesyard]

Where the West Begins

21. Desert Paintbrush

Jaylah hummed to herself as she saddled Trébol. Pavel was nearby getting his own horse ready. Really they should be heading back out to the pasture to help Montgomery Scotty fix the fences, but even he had said what good condition they were in; he wouldn’t miss them.

At least Jaylah hoped he wouldn’t.

“Where are we going?” Jaylah asked as they rode away from the ranch. Pavel had suggested the ride as they had left lunch, but he hadn’t told her where to.

“You remember our picnic spot?” he said as they trotted along.

“Yes.”

He had taken Jaylah there not long after he and Montgomery Scotty and Leonard had taught her how to ride. She had seen a dust devil and Pavel had told her it would bring her luck.

“Well I hope what I want to show you is ready,” he replied with a smile.

“What is it?” Jaylah demanded.

“You will see,” was all Pavel would tell her.

Jaylah let out a huff, but she couldn’t be mad at him. Secretly she smiled. He had been good to her from the first moment they met. Although he had seen her before she had ever seen him. She had been unconscious as Montgomery Scotty and Pavel had brought her to the ranch.

Jaylah felt safe with Pavel. Of course she felt secure with everyone on the ranch, but with Pavel there was something else. Something Jaylah couldn’t name, but she knew it was there.

They had only spoken about the night he had spent in her bed once, and that had been Pavel asking if she wanted the others to know it was her birthday. She had gone silent for a long time thinking it over and in the end had decided to keep it between them. The memory of her family’s traditions was still too tender to let more than Pavel in.

The horses splashed across the ford in the river and on the other side Jaylah challenged Pavel to a race. Soon enough the wind was blowing past them and Jaylah couldn’t help but laugh with the joy of it.

“Wasn’t that the path?” Jaylah asked as Pavel continued past a faint path heading towards the high hill they’d had their picnic at the past summer.

“Yes, but what I want to see is on the far side.”

“Ok.” Jaylah kept following.

“Da!”

“Are we there?” Jaylah asked.

“Yes, yes! Look!”

Jaylah followed Pavel’s finger and saw a bright patch of red on the hillside. Chekov hopped down from his horse, and finding a low tree branch secured the animal. As Jaylah hopped down from Trébol, Pavel headed towards the hill. Jaylah secured her horse and hurried behind him.

“What is it? Oh!” Jaylah caught up to Pavel and finally saw the red for what it was. “They’re beautiful!”

Pavel turned and was smiling brightly. “This is the only patch I know of where they grow around here. Hikaru has his roses in the hills—” Pavel gestured towards the northern hills back across the river. “—but I have these.”

“They are beautiful,” Jaylah said again, reaching out to gently touch a flower.

“I’ve always thought so,” Pavel said. Jaylah glanced up and saw he was looking right at her, not the flowers. Heat rose on her face and she turned back to the flowers.

“Jaylah… I—”

“I know,” she said softly. “Me too.”

“Da?”

Jaylah nodded and turned her flushed face back towards him. She wasn’t surprised to see his face was nearly as red as the flowers.

“Now what?” Pavel asked just above a whisper.

“Now we keep being us,” Jaylah answered just as quietly, beginning to smile. She stepped closer and leaned against him as he put an arm around her waist.

“Us,” he agreed with a nod.