#i don’t like this one very much but eh. can’t all be winners

[stellar-collective]

close one!

[maddogofshimano]

Four Shine in the Nick of Time: Yuki Scratcher Event

Minor YK2 Side Content Spoilers

The first of the two giveaway winners, this one’s for @yakozy​ !!

It ended up being not super long, but don’t worry! The other winner ALSO wanted a Yuki event, and that one is massive?? So it balances out in the end. I’m moving slow but I should be able to get that one done in the next couple of weeks

Summary: Set in 2007 following the events of the Cabaret Grand Prix, Yuki sets up a special campaign to boost sales. Unfortunately, the numbers just aren’t adding up--a counterfeiter seems to be in their midst...

One day in 2007 Sotenbori's Four Shine After Four Shine won the Cabaret Grand Prix and became popular....

Waiter: Aika-san, you've been requested at table six~.

Waiter: Kira-san, table four just put in a request for you. Yuki: Wheww~ ...I'm beat~!

Koyuki: Ever since we began that campaign you thought of, we've really been flooded with customers. Majima: The campaign Yuki-chan thought of?

Yuki: Wah! Majima-san!? What are you doing here!? Majima: Ever since the Prix Goooro Majima's been awfully popular. I was out this way on business and came to see how things have developed. (tl note: his name is written as ゴ一ロ真島 Goooro Majima, instead of 真島吾郎 Majima Goro, to match his Cabaret Grand Prix announcer name) Yuki: I-I see... So that's why you're dressed like that. Majima: So then, what's this campaign you came up with? Yuki: Fufufu... It's an appreciation scratcher campaign! Majima: Scratchers? Yuki: Yes! Every time someone visits we give them one scratcher exchange voucher, and once they gather five they get to do a scratcher! Yuki: To make our customers happy, we've put together some super great prizes! Majima: And that'll bring in even more customer, huh. Yuki-chan, you've gotten good at business too!

Yuki: It's not about making money! The point of this campaign is to give back to our regulars! Yuki: Buuuut, if the number of customers also happens to increase, that's not a bad thing either, right...? Fufufu. Majima: You're laughin' real evilly~.

Waiter: Yuki-saaan, do you have a moment? Yuki: Hm? That's the waiter, Takada. I wonder what's up. Give me just a minute. (tl note: name is 高田 and I went with Takada but there's a bunch of readings) <she goes out to the main floor, and also my eardrums get blasted out by hostess music> Yuki: What's going on, Takada?

Waiter: There's something weird going on with the scratcher exchange tickets... The number that's been used is higher than the number that we distributed. Waiter: Can you think of any reason for this? Yuki: Eh? There's more exchange tickets? Are you sure the numbers are correct? Waiter: Yes ma'am. I counted them all again, but... it still came out the same. Waiter: I'm not sure about this Yuki-san but... it may be possible... that someone is making counterfeit exchange tickets. Yuki: Counterfeiting the scratcher exchange tickets... seriously...? Waiter: If things continue at this rate then we'll run out of prizes faster than expected and I think we'll end up in the red. Something has to be done... Yuki: I understand... I'll do everything I can. Will you keep quiet about this to the manager and everyone else? Waiter: Y-Yes ma'am. You got it. <he leaves> Yuki: ...What do I do. This is my fault... I'm the one who thought of the campaign...

Majima: What's with the sourpuss? Yuki-chan, did somethin' happen? Yuki: Wah! M-Majima-san! I-It's nothing...! Yuki: Th-This sourpuss is because... ummm... right! I have a little bit of a tummy ache! Owie~! Majima: ...What kinda stomachache? Did ya go scroungin' around here for food? Yuki: Ahaha... That must have been it. Well I'm just going to go pick some flowers... <she leaves and the music cuts off SO abruptly> Majima: Heh, that Yuki-chan... she's a real idiot.

Yuki: (...I can't bother Majima-san with this. This is my fault, so I need to handle it on my own...) [The next day...] Waiter: Thank you very much! Please come see us again soon. Yuki: (I don't want to believe that someone is really forging exchange tickets, but...) Yuki: (If it's true then I just watch the register, and someone will show up whose exchange tickets does not match the number of times they visited!) Waiter: ....Since you have thirty exchange tickets, sir, you can do six scratchers.

Rough-looking customer: Hell yeah... I got a good prize! Yuki: (...! That customer, he's only been here twice... He shouldn't have thirty exchange tickets!) Yuki: (...So that means... he's the counterfeiter!? I-I found him just fine, but... what do I do now...!) Waiter: ...Thank you very much! Please come see us again soon. Yuki: (Whoawoawoah... that customer is leaving...! I-I'll just have to chase him...!) <outside of the club> Customer: Heheheh... I got a real good one. Those idiots in the club didn't even notice the counterfeits.

<he walks off> Yuki: I-I knew it, he's the culprit...! I have to tell him not to do it again...! Yuki: ...That customer went in here, didn't he? Yuki: Let's see... Banjou Family Office... Banjou Family..................... eh!? He's a yakuza!? (tl note: 万��組 is the family) Yuki: Wh-What do I do... maybe it'd be best if I just went back... but then I'd be causing an issue for everyone at Four Shine... Yuki: .............I'll just have to go anyways. Yuki: If I tell them to stop cheating... I'm sure even a yakuza would understand. Yuki: ....Yeah! Women have guts! Let's go, me!!

<she goes in, and the event starts>

Yuki: I know I said I had to, but... Ooooh, I'm so scareddddd.....!

Yuki: I just have to tell them to stop cheating... Even a yakuza will understand... Yuki: Yeah! It's for the club! Get going, me!! <she goes and knocks on a door, then opens it> Yuki: P-Pardon the intrusion...?

Majima: .....What's up, Yuki-chan. What are ya doin' here?

Yuki: M-Majima-san!? What are you doing here... ah! <a bunch of beaten up men, including our counterfeiter, are shown> Yuki: They're all beaten black and blue... Majima-san, did you...? Majima: Hm? Ahh, s'pose so. I got into a fight with that lot. Majima: Ah, that's right. They had this. Yuki: Th-These are... Scratcher exchange vouchers!? Majima: Unrelatedly I told 'em not to do any stupid shit. They just happened to start a fight over it, so that was lucky. Yuki: Th-Thank you for this! Now everyone at Four Shine won't have to worry! Majima: Oops, it's almost time for the train. Till next time, Yuki-chan.

<he leaves, and it sounds like he kicks a door clean off its hinges as he does> Yuki: Ah! Majima-san! Ah-he's gone... Yuki: ...Majima-san is also a bad liar. Fufu. Yuki: Alright! I'm going to work hard to make up for the help I got!

<EVENT END>

Bonus stuff:

Not a whole lot to go into on this one tbh! I do like seeing Majima and Yuki interact a little more, and that Majima went back to Four Shine at least once. This event originally ran almost exactly 4 years ago, which is wild to consider! and finally a big thank you to this youtube video that I used to pull screenshots from

[dreaminonao3]

"how did this happen?" - Alastor/Charlie

Fandom: Hazbin Hotel

Triggers/Warnings: None

Rating: T

How Did This Happen? (AO3)

“How did this happen?”

The mirror had no more answers than he did. All it could show him was what he already knew – the deep diagonal slash across his chest. It was healing, slowly, and would certainly leave a new scar to add to his collection.

It happened because you got too confident. You thought you could take on Adam and win even though he was much more powerful. Instead of “How,” a better question is “Why?” Why did this happen?

He hung his head, his hands gripping the sides of the sink. It happened because of Charlie. As he was the heaviest hitter in the Hotel, she had asked him to be the one to face Adam.

It had almost killed him.

Was she worth it? Was her dream worth it?

*

How did this happen?

It was their weekly discussion of how the Hotel was running. (Smoothly as ever, of course, thanks to his expertise.) They’d had this same conversation since the hotel’s rebuilding, going on six months now. This time, though, something was different.

He wasn’t sure if the change was in her or him but something about her laugh made his heart lighten. Something about her smile made his stomach do a little flip. Something about her eyes meeting his made his breath catch.

Charlie was having an effect on him. She was a distraction.

A weakness.

Something his enemies could exploit if they knew.

He should stop.

He should leave.

Charlie chose that moment to start humming to herself as she worked on her plans for the next day’s group activity. She had no idea how adorable she was and he melted.

How could he leave?

*

How did this happen?

He ignored the text from Lucifer. His phone, a gift from Charlie, wasn’t the center of his life, therefore it was easy to pretend he never saw texts he didn’t like. At least the man decided to not confront me in person. Can’t have a scene in front of my newly-minted fiancée.

Of course, the King of Hell wasn’t the only person asking that question. Everyone wanted to know how they got together, Angel Dust being the only exception.

“Eh, it was inevitable,” he said after their engagement was announced. “She wants ta redeem everyone, he’s the ultimate sinner. He’s her passion project.”

The question was, of course, whether she would succeed in making a Winner out of him. While he had no doubts about Charlie’s abilities, he had plenty of doubts about himself.

Still, she believed in him, even after everything. It was something he could build an afterlife on.

*

“How did this happen?”

Charlie giggled. “When two demons love each other very much…”

He stared down at the pregnancy test wand in his hands. It was unmistakably positive. He was unmistakably fucked.

“Hey,” she said softly as she relieved him of the pregnancy wand then took his hands, her big eyes gazing up at him. “Stop imagining the worst.”

He raised an eyebrow. “When did you become a mind reader?”

“When I realized that you are really good at putting up a brave, scary front when you’re terrified. We can do this.”

He sighed heavily. “My father was anything but a role model.”

“My parents are far from perfect but we can both be better than all of them. We have each other and a Hotel full of people I’m sure will be happy to help.” She released his hands to wrap her arms around his waist. “It’ll be fun, Alastor.”

“‘Fun?’” he echoed in utter disbelief. “It’s the most important role either of us could possibly undertake.”

She smirked. “I don’t know, I’d say you’ve handled ‘husband’ and ‘lover’ pretty well so far. Why should ‘father’ be any different?”

He chuckled, his body finally relaxing. “How do you always know the right thing to say?”

“It’s a gift.”

His smile softened. “No, you’re the gift.”

She beamed at him then her smile turned seductive. “To answer your question, I could give you a demonstration, if you’ll allow it.”

He grinned at her. “But of course.”

[all-eyes-lead-to-the-truth]

All Eyes Lead to the Truth | S.R. 819 (6x09)

She doesn’t usually do this kind of thing. She’s a good secretary.

At least, that’s what Arlene tries to convince herself as she presses her ear to the closed door of her boss’s office, trying to listen. Surely this isn’t something Kimberly had done before her, was it? 

She tells herself it’s because A.D. Skinner nearly died a few weeks ago, and she doesn’t know why. She tells herself it’s because she has a right to know what the hell is going on.

She tells herself that, but it’s not really the truth.

“... Your recovery is being hailed as a miracle…”

It’s a woman’s voice. Agent Scully. She hasn’t seen the erstwhile pair of X-Files agents in this office in months, ever since they’d been replaced with Agents Spender and Fowley. (Come to think of it, she hasn’t seen those two in here an awful lot, either.) But seeing them back again in the assistant director’s office must mean something big is going on. 

“ The man who poisoned you…” now it’s Agent Mulder speaking, for sure. She’d know that particular impassioned voice anywhere. But… poisoned? Who the hell would want to poison A.D. Skinner, and why?

A lower baritone now, she recognizes as her boss: “ No. I'm sorry. ”

She hears a pause, then some muffled speaking. Agent Mulder sounds disappointed. Something about a committee, a jumble of numbers… That bill! He’d been in here talking about some Senate resolution. This must be about that.

“ ...worked for the government … killed one of his own to save you. ”

“ So you still think this was about… the X-Files? ”

God. The amount of times she’s heard A.D. Skinner grumbling in his office about the X-Files, particularly when he isn’t even in charge of them anymore, is astounding. Agent Mulder answers in what is clearly in the affirmative, but Arlene can’t make out anything else. Only her boss replying in what is clearly the negative. 

“This matter’s closed, Agents. Am I clear?”

…And this is her cue to resume her position at her desk. Arlene moves away from the door quickly and quietly, picking up some papers on the edge of her desk to casually place into her inbox as the door swings open. Just look busy.

As the two agents leave the office and close the door behind them, she sees them exchange a glance; frustrated, but always in sync. She doesn’t know them personally, but she’s heard the lore of the X-Files agents for some time, and she’s pleased to see their camaraderie matches the rumors.

“What’s going on?” she asks them cheerfully. Maybe they’ll give her a clue.

Agent Scully shakes her head. “Nothing, apparently.” She looks over at Agent Mulder. “At least A.D. Skinner’s okay. I guess we can call that a win.”

“Yeah. That’s us. A couple of winners,” Agent Mulder grumbles, extending his arm in a gesture for her to walk ahead of him, and they leave the office. After a minute or so, her boss’s door opens again. He stands in the doorframe, leaning against it, staring past her at the door where the agents had departed. 

He sighs. She knows that sigh.

“Everything okay?” she asks him.

He doesn’t speak for a long moment, but then turns to her. “You ever have one of those days?” He sounds exhausted, almost resigned. She rarely sees him this way. 

“What days?”

“The kind of day you wonder what the hell you’re doing and why you’re doing it?” He’s staring regretfully after the two inseparable agents. Almost like he wishes he could follow them.

She knows he doesn’t actually want her to answer. Something is troubling him, that much is obvious. She just wishes he’d tell her what.

“Eh,” he shakes his head, turning back towards his office. “Never mind.”

“Sir?” She stands up and the assistant director turns to look at her. “I don’t mean to overstep, but…” she considers, weighing her options. She’s only worked for him for a couple months. What she’s about to say could go very, very wrong. But there’s something about him. She trusts him.

Fuck it.

“If you ever just need to talk… about anything, you can talk to me,” she says quickly. “I just wanted to tell you that.”

At first, he appears taken aback by her offer. But then she sees something in his eyes, something that tells her perhaps she’s broken through. 

“Thanks,” he says, and smiles at her.

“You're welcome, sir.”

“You know, when it’s just you and me, you can call me Walter.” His ears turn a little pink. 

In any other situation, she might think of his suggestion as some kind of sexual advance: inappropriate, or even borderline creepy. But this isn’t any other situation. It’s A.D. Skinner. 

It’s Walter.

She nods, smiles. “Okay. Walter.” 

He goes back into his office, and when he closes the door, he leaves it open just a crack. Today isn’t the day he’s going to open up, but maybe someday. She wants to know what’s going on with him, and she tells herself it’s mere curiosity, but the truth is, she cares. 

Maybe more than she should.

She wonders how long it will be until she gets to call him Walter again. She’s never done that with any other boss before.

After all, she doesn’t usually do that kind of thing. She’s a good secretary.

Read the rest of All Eyes Lead to the Truth on Archive of Our Own!

@admiralty-xfd

[the-himawari]

A3! Minagi Tsuzuru - Translation [SR] Rising Dragon Carrying Prayers (2/2)

*Please read disclaimer on blog; default name set as Izumi

---

Izumi: It looks great on you, Tsuzuru-kun!

Tsuzuru: …Thanks. You look great too, Director.

Store clerk: They suit both of you very well. Please enjoy your date!

Izumi: Eh?

Tsuzuru: That’s not…! …Well, since we’re here, why don’t we have fun seeing the sights around Chinatown?

Izumi: Okay! I’m with you.

-pause-

Izumi: The manju and bubble tea both tasted amazing!

Tsuzuru: They sure did. They were freshly made and delicious.

Izumi: Hm? People are crowding around over there. Maybe there’s some kind of event going on?

Tsuzuru: That reminds me. You said there’s lots of people out, so there might be something happening today, didn’t you? Shall we head over?

Izumi: Sure.

-pause-

Participant A: HA! HO!

Izumi: Ah, there’s a signboard that says “Sword Dance Contest”! So that’s the reason it was so crowded.

Tsuzuru: Amazing…

Izumi: (Tsuzuru-kun’s absorbed in watching. It’s different from the actual dance he’s going to do, but I guess it caught his eye since it’s still a sword dance.)

Staff: …Hold on, you there. The participants are standing by in that area over there.

Tsuzuru: Eh, me!?

Staff: You’re joining the competition, aren’t you? You’re in costume and all. Here, take this sword and get going. Quickly!

Tsuzuru: Ehh, you’ve got it all wrong!

*gets dragged away*

Izumi: …Eh! TSUZURU-KUN!?

-pause-

Chairman: Now we have our last contender. Ahem… please step up, Minagi Tsuzuru-san!

Izumi: (I can’t believe he’s actually going to take the stage.) (I have to cheer him on. He just happens to be wearing a similar outfit, plus this is a chance for him to show off the results of his daily practice…!) Go for it, Tsuzuru-kun!

Tsuzuru: …Welp, this happened. All I can do is the best sword dance I can pull off.

-pause-

Tsuzuru: …Hah!

*applause*

Chairman: That was spectacular! Truly a wonderful dance!

Izumi: You rocked it, Tsuzuru-kun!

Tsuzuru: T-thank you very much.

Option 1: “You were so pro”

Izumi: You were so pro, honestly. I was always watching you practice at the dorm, yet I couldn’t help but feel captivated.

Tsuzuru: Ahh, but that dance just now also felt different to me than when I practiced. There’s a different feeling of nervousness when a whole crowd has their eyes on me compared to when I’m being watched by Yukishiro-san.

Izumi: All the guests were taken aback as well.

Tsuzuru: That’s great to hear then! I’ve gained a little more confidence.

Option 2: “How was the outfit?”

Izumi: By the way, how was the outfit? It was fluttery, just like the one you’re actually going to wear.

Tsuzuru: Oh right. It didn’t bother me at all while I was dancing just now. Look like I got used to it from walking around with it on.

Izumi: That’s great! That was our goal today.

Tsuzuru: Right. Both that and spending all day today wearing rental outfits with you…

Izumi: Eh?

Tsuzuru: Err, nothing! It’s all thanks to you who strolled around the streets with me!

Izumi: Fufu. I’m happy if it helped.

Tsuzuru: *Sigh*. It’s over now. How did this happen…

Chairman: I apologize for the wait. I will announce the results from the judges! This year’s winner is… Makato Asano of Team Shin! Congratulations!

Tsuzuru: Yep, it’s not me who just jumped in last minute.

Chairman: This year is Asano-san’s miraculous 5th consecutive championship! He will be inducted into the contest’s hall of fame!

Tsuzuru: There’s even less way that’d be me… Well, I think it was a good experience—.

Chairman: Now then, this year was a close fight with fierce competitors, so a special award was set up for this occasion! The recipient is… Minagi Tsuzuru-san!

Izumi: EHH!

Tsuzuru: Eh, me!?

Chairman: Minagi-san, please come this way. For some reason, your team name isn’t listed on the roster. Which group do you belong to?

Tsuzuru: Um, actually… a staff member mistook me as a participant and I was suddenly made to appear. I was just passing by.

Chairman: EHHH, passing by!? You see, you were a huge hit with all the judges. However, your sword had a different flair to it so we couldn’t evaluate you with the regular prize—. That’s why in this special case, we created a special award just for you.

Tsuzuru: An award just for me…

Chairman: Anyways, your sword handling was superb. You’re not new to this at all, are you?

Tsuzuru: Well, a bit, yeah… I happened to get an opportunity to learn recently, so I was in the midst of practicing.

Chairman: Oh my, you only started recently!? That is wonderful! I certainly hope you re-register next year with a sword dance that matches the style of this competition.

Tsuzuru: N-no, I…. (Now that I think about it, the sword dance that I’m still learning right now has a tradition related to rituals…) Was it alright for me to perform such an ancient and honourable sword dance here…!?

---

previous |

[link4eva]

Kiro’s Dream Come True Date Translation [CN]

Hi! Thanks so much for your patience! 

This translation was done with the power of Duolingo and Google Translate.

The translation below contains spoilers for content that has not yet been released to the ENG server. If you wish to not be spoiled, then please don’t look below the cut.

Enjoy~

*Spoilers for future content below!*

[First Part]

It was late at night, and I was huddled in bed bored while swiping through videos. Suddenly, a crisp “ding dong” sounded, and a push notification popped up on the screen.

– [Special Announcement on Weibo] Kiro: This “Wish Collection” event has ended. The one who won the final wish prize is… [Click for details]

MC: ! It’s actually time for the prize draw of this event, let me see who is the lucky one…

Immediately, my spirit came to me, and I stretched out my finger to the link on the screen–

At the same time, an incoming call popped up on the screen, and the moment my fingertip touched the screen, a familiar voice came from the receiver.

Kiro: MC? You answered too quickly, did you stay up all night playing on your phone again and get caught by me?

MC: Pfft- I saw the push notification that the event you held before had a draw, and I want to take part in this grand prize. I hope I win!

MC: After all, what the winner gets is a chance for Kiro to grant their wish, how rare it is~

Kiro: It seems that Miss Chips is quite interested in this event? Then I can rest assured.

MC: Eh?

Kiro: I called you just to say this.

Kiro: Because this wish in the draw was a bit special, I wanted to celebrate the fourth birthday of a little fan named “Nini”.

Kiro: But the other party emphasized that she wanted a relatively cozy and private birthday party, so the address was set at her home. 

Kiro: That being said… don’t schedule shoots as much as possible.

MC: Is there a reason for being so mysterious?

Kiro: You can rest assured that the other party provided information very cooperatively, and it should be Nini’s sister according to her age, only…

MC: Savin must still have concerns.

A muffled response came from the other end of the phone.

MC: But even so, Kiro must be very persistent in granting this wish. So he is now thinking…

MC: “It would be great if MC came with me. It would not only convince Savin to rest assured, but also not disappoint the fans.”

MC: Am I guessing right?

Kiro: …correct, correct, correct, correct! Oops, I guess I can’t hide anything from you.

He pretended to sigh helplessly, but his tone was undisguised and lightened.

I can seem to imagine what his expression was like at this time. How could I live up to such a Kiro?

[Second Part]

On Nini’s birthday, Kiro and I showed up at the address of the apartment on time.

After confirming the apartment number again and again, and consolidating the measures to deal with what Savin had told me so many times, I nodded toward Kiro.

Kiro picked up the cake he had prepared and rang the doorbell. Soon, a young girl with a ponytail appeared before us.

Kiro: Surprise– 

The girl opened her eyes wide and looked at Kiro in a trance. After a while, she blushed and covered her mouth.

Girl: It’s really Kiro!

Kiro: Hello, I’m Kiro. Next to me is…

MC: I’m his manager, MC, hello.

As I said that, I blinked at Kiro, but he was not surprised.

Kiro: We were invited to celebrate Nini’s birthday. You are the one who contacted us before, Nini’s sister, right?

The girl seems to have come out of her trance, looked at us apologetically and smiled at us.

Girl: Sorry, I’m just so excited. Hello, I’m Nini’s mother.

Perhaps our expressions were too surprised as she seemed to have realized something and waved her hands.

Girl: I think you have misunderstood… come in first. Nini, hurry up, come out and see who’s here!

(In the apartment)

As soon as I walked into the entrance, I heard something jumping down the stairs. There was a sound, and then a small furry head appeared at the corner of the stairs.

Two ears stand high, and a pink tongue hangs out like a soggy noodle. The small lace scarf on the neck is extraordinarily delicate, and it looks like it has been carefully dressed.

As it approached, its round buttocks trembled.

MC: Such a cute little corgi!

Kiro: So chubby, it looks like Mango Shake! *Reference to his Intimate Date*

As if it had seemingly understood the compliment, the little corgi sped up its small steps and jumped down the stairs step by step, its naive look made it so that people couldn’t help but want to approach it.

Girl: Nini, look, your favourite Kiro is here to celebrate your birthday!

Kiro: It’s… Nini?

Seeing us looking at each other, the girl blushed and lowered her head, a hint of guilt and unease was mixed in her tone.

Girl: I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to hide it… and I didn’t mean to answer your questions so vaguely.

Girl: I didn’t expect you to come today. I… I am really surprised and thankful!

The girl’s somewhat bewildered expression cleared up any doubt that we had before. *Changed some wording*

Girl: Nini is not only a pet but an actual child to me. And… she’s a hardcore Kiro fan!

Girl: As long as Kiro appears on TV, she will sit right in front. I can’t even pull her away!

As if to prove that she is indeed a genuine “little soda”, Nini excitedly rubbed around Kiro’s legs.

Kiro squatted down and shook Nini’s paw in a friendly way.

Kiro: Hello, little Nini, nice to meet you. Happy Birthday to you today! 

Kiro: I never thought I had a special and lovely “little fan” like you.

Kiro: It’s all thanks to this wonderful fate, right?

Kiro’s voice is gentle and sincere, I can hear him say something to Nini as he gently patted her shoulders.

MC: It seems that Nini has successfully captured Kiro.

Nini opened her grape-like eyes and gently rubbed Kiro’s hand with her soft nose.

Seeing this scene, the girl’s face finally showed a smile.

Kiro: Come on Nini, let’s start your birthday party! 

Nini: Woof woof!

Looking at the small and delicate chocolate cake on the table, we fell into a brief silence.

Nini in Kiro’s arms stuck her tongue out, anxiously waiting for her own birthday ceremony. She probably didn't understand what the strange human was thinking.

The girl leaned beside me and whispered.

Girl: Actually, I ordered a special little cake at the pet store, but I don’t know why it hasn’t been delivered yet. If you could stay here, I’d go directly to the store to have a look.

MC: I’ll go with you!

Girl: No, it’s already very troublesome for you! And I didn’t make it clear before.

Kiro: What are you saying so mysteriously? 

Kiro and Nini’s heads came into sight at the same time, and their eyes were inexplicably synchronized.

Kiro: Watch us, Nini, she is just going to go out for a bit. *Changed some wording*

Kiro: Although the cake is not perfect, what is important is the sense of ceremony to celebrate the birthday!

Nini sighed in cooperation, Kiro raised his hand quickly, covered the pair of small ears, and lowered his voice.

Kiro: I can’t help but comfort this little gal, I think she’s going to jump up any second. 

Kiro: The puppy cake you’re talking about, we’ll pick it up later, okay?

Listening to his urgent tone, I tried my best to hold back a smile, picked up a golden birthday hat from the side, and adjusted it. After adjusting it, I put it on Nini’s head.

MC: Well, the little birthday star’s hat is ready!

Kiro stood up, put on a serious look, raised his palm, and stretched it out to Nini.

Kiro: You sit here, be good, and don’t move. Do you understand? High five!

Nini: Woof!

The fleshy little paw scratched Kiro’s palm twice and then sat on the spot obediently.

Kiro put the four candles on the cake with satisfaction and lit one of them.

The orange halo flickered, outlining his face very softly.

[Third Part]

In the gentle happy birthday song singing, Nini’s birthday ceremony is completed.

At the girl’s request, she went to the pet store to pick up the cake while Kiro and I stayed to accompany Nini.

Perhaps because she didn’t eat the cake, Nini was running back and forth excitedly. Kiro, who was following behind her, finally lost after several rounds of chasing.

Kiro: Phew- Miss Chips, you say she’s so small, so where does she keep all that energy in her little body? It’s almost like when I walk Apple Box and he wants to take me for a run! *Changed some wording* 

Kiro: Oh wait, where is she going?

I followed Kiro’s line of sight and saw Nini jumping upstairs strenuously with her short legs, leaving us with a stocky little butt.

Kiro: Oh no, am I falling out of her affection so quickly?

MC: No, Kiro is too charming for that to happen. Have more confidence!

The next second, Nini’s figure reappeared on the stairs with a big bag in her mouth, and she diligently put the bag into Kiro’s hands.

After reaching in the bag for a short while, Kiro took out a can of fresh meat.

Kiro: Clever little ghost, do you want to eat this? 

Nini sat obediently at Kiro’s feet, her big eyes flickering.

Kiro slowly opened the tab of the can, but suddenly raised the can when Nini approached.

Kiro: What should you do first if you want to eat meat?

As soon as he finished speaking, Nini raised her two short front paws with difficulty, using the other two short back legs to hold herself up. *Changed some wording*

Kiro patted Nini’s head with great satisfaction and handed over the opened can of meat.

Kiro: Very nice, this can is your reward! 

Nini raised her ears proudly, leaned over to take a few bites of canned food, and then turned her attention to the chew sticks in the bag.

Kiro followed her gaze and opened the packaging of the chew sticks and shook it in front of Nini.

Kiro: If you want to eat it, you have to say “thank you” again.

Nini responded with a crisp sound, raised her short front legs, and then unexpectedly put them back down and spun around.

Kiro: Nini, how much skill do you have that I don’t know about? 

Nini paused, jumped suddenly, and snatched the chew stick out of Kiro’s hand.

Kiro: Hey, you! This “skill” is not something a good child should learn!

The fluffy little butt seemed to be provocative, but soon after, Nini took out another bag of jerky.

Kiro: Only after you eat this can of food. Be a good girl who doesn’t waste!

Kiro earnestly tried to educate Nini about saving money, but Nini didn’t seem to be interested as her short legs kept digging at the bag of jerky under her feet.

I couldn’t help laughing when I saw Kiro being helpless with this dog.

Kiro: Miss Chips, don’t snicker, come and help me. 

I restrained my smile and bent down to get the jerky when Nini suddenly rushed up and took it back, making a threatening cry.

MC: She actually stole it… It seems that Nini is a dog who will not give up so easily.

Kiro: This little gal is really possessive. *kinda like a certain boi with golden retriever energy, lol*

Kiro said, naturally reaching out to straighten my messy hair.

Who would have thought that Nini would suddenly let go of the jerky and run over to squeeze between me and Kiro, making sure to lick Kiro’s hand constantly?

MC: Nini, this is… *not your man, bitch!! 😤*

Kiro had a novel look on his face and reached out his hand to deliberately rub my hair again.

Nini: Woof woof!!

Nini jumped on the spot twice and even rolled over to reveal her fat belly. Kiro had to rub it before she would stop.

I couldn’t help laughing at the realization.

MC: Nini is also very possessive towards you.

Kiro: No way, too much charm is also a trouble. 

Kiro pinched Nini’s fat little face and deliberately made a sour expression. The corners of my mouth twitched as a little mischievous idea came to mind.

I walked behind Kiro, put my hands on his shoulders, looked at him defiantly, and then looked at Nini. 

MC: Kiro– is mine!

[Fourth Part]

Nini: Arf!

Nini didn’t flinch in the slightest and barked back, making sure to not be outdone.

MC: He’s mine, not yours!

Nini: Ruff!

MC: You two just met today, we have known each other for a long time, you know!

Nini: Ruff ruff!

Listening to me and Nini bickering back and forth, Kiro couldn’t stop laughing.

He picked up the can and the chew stick and handed them to Nini, exaggerated sounds were falling out of our mouths. *Changed some wording*

Kiro: Alright, enough already, stop fighting!

MC: This is a war between me and Nini, don’t interfere!

Kiro: Pfft– come on, Miss Chips.

Kiro leaned towards my ear and whispered something. My ears felt a little hot for a moment and I felt as if I was quietly being favoured. *Changed some wording*

MC: Nini, aren’t you going to admit defeat?

Nini: Woof!

The fleshy front paws rested on Kiro’s legs, and her eyes were still full of confidence.

MC: Nini, look, he’s mine!

In front of Nini, I held Kiro’s right hand.

MC: Look… look!

I walked around in front of Kiro and deliberately sat gently on Kiro’s right leg.

Nini jumped onto Kiro’s left leg without hesitation.

Kiro: Ah, am I hugging from left to right? 

Although he said it jokingly, I felt that Kiro’s hand didn’t know where to go.

I didn’t expect Nini to be so obsessed with Kiro. It seems that I will lose to this dog if she doesn’t move.

I tilted my head, looked at the side of the face that was close at hand, and subconsciously pecked his cheek.

Kiro seemed to be stunned for a moment, and when he looked over, I looked away with a guilty conscience.

MC: Nini, do you still dare to fight? 

Nini immediately propped her upper body and stuck out her pink tongue to Kiro’s face.

At this moment, Kiro suddenly stretched out his hand, took Nini’s chubby body into his arms, tilted his head and then leaned down.

Before I could react, a warm and soft touch fell on the corner of my lips.

Shallow breathing fluttered on the side of the ear, and a chuckle sounded in my ear–

Kiro: Congratulations to Miss Chips for winning the “Kiro Battle”. 

Kiro: This is your trophy, please take it.

After playing with Nini for a while, Kiro and I sat on the floor panting.

Nini still happily walked around us with her short legs and pushed me with her soft nose reluctantly, and rubbed Kiro again.

Seeing that we really had no energy, she went off to play by herself in disappointment.

I turned my head and saw the beads of sweat on the tips of Kiro’s golden hair and the dog fur on his clothes. I subconsciously raised the corners of my lips.

Kiro: What is Miss Chips giggling about? Did I get caught again? 

MC: Because I’m looking at you, I can’t help but laugh. After all, seeing Kiro like this is rare~

MC: But you played with Nini for a whole day today. Will Apple Box be jealous? After all, dogs have really keen noses!

Kiro: You reminded me that Apple Box’s always good-natured in appearance, but he gets jealous very easily.

Kiro: Usually whenever I touch another dog outside, he gets unhappy when he finds out. 

MC: Then when you go back today with Nini’s scent, he will definitely ignore you, right?

I looked at Kiro, a bit of schadenfreude in my tone.

Kiro: Yes. Luckily… I think I have a solution.

MC: Eh?

Before I could react, Kiro’s whole body was already tilted towards me, getting closer and closer–

The next second, his head was resting on my lap.

Kiro: There we go.

Kiro: How about you let me bring more of your scent home so that Apple Box won’t smell Nini? 

Saying that, Kiro rubbed against me like Apple Box, as if to rub in more smell.

From time to time, the soft ends of hair brushed against the skin on my arm, giving an itching sensation.

My heart beat faster involuntarily and I subconsciously reached out and pushed him away.

MC: How could this approach work…

Kiro: I think it should work.

Kiro: If you don’t believe me, try smelling me first? 

Kiro said that as he took off his jacket and put me in his arms. My whole vision suddenly turned black and only a fresh, youthful scent was left.

In the dark with a cozy atmosphere, only the thumping of heartbeats was alive and present.

MC: Kiro, you…

“Woosh!”, the dark curtain suddenly pulled away from my world again and a face with a familiar smile gradually became clear in my sight.

Kiro: So, is it just your scent? 

MC: I, I’m not Apple Box, how would I be able to smell it? Come on!

Nini: Arf arf!

With a crisp bark, the figure with short legs jumped onto my lap and pushed Kiro away.

MC: This is…

Kiro wanted to lean over again, but received a warning look from Nini.

Kiro: It seems that after you played with her just now, she now thinks of you as property and wants to monopolize you… What a special little gal!

As if to confirm Kiro’s speculation, Nini turned towards Kiro again and barked twice provocatively.

Kiro: Well, since today is your birthday…

Kiro stretched out his hand and a chew stick was stuffed into Nini’s mouth.

Kiro: The chew sticks and cans are yours.

Kiro: But Miss Chips–

Kiro: Is mine alone. 

[End]

You can read/listen to the call that comes after this date here!

[inazumaeveryday]

Day 12

At home

Kidou: Good morning, mar.

Today’s the match between Raimon and Mikage Sennou. Let’s go see the results of Raimon’s special training at the Inabikari training center.

As for the winner… This time, I can honestly say I have no idea how this match will turn out.

Option 1

mar: I’m rooting for Raimon!

Kidou: So you want Raimon to win, huh…?

Option 2

mar: I’m rooting for Mikage Sennou!

Kidou: Right. We do need them to crush Raimon, after all.

Kidou: Heh… I’m personally very curious to see which philosophy will come out on top—Mikage’s data or Raimon’s stupidity.

The commander’s already got his eye on Mikage… And they’re also likely to end up as our opponent in the finals.

It wouldn’t hurt to watch the match.

*

Kidou: I forgot to set my alarm last night…

Thankfully I woke up in time, but I’ll have to be more careful from now on.

Breakfast

Kidou: We’re having salad this morning. …Woah, there’s over forty items in there.

Let’s see…

Kidou’s room

Kidou: mar, is that bed hair…?

Go check in the mirror, just to be sure.

In the car

Kidou: The match is at 11:30, so we’ll leave school in the morning.

Morning practice

Doumen: The commander sure doesn’t show up to practice a lot, does he~

Narukami: But we can take it easy and practice whatever we want when he’s not there, so it’s kind of nice~

Sakiyama: Right? He’s always watching us so closely when he’s there… I can’t help but feel nervous the whole time.

Kidou: What’s this? You think practice is too easy with me? You should have told me sooner. I’d be happy to work you to death if that’s what you want.

Sakiyama: N-no, it’s perfectly fine!

At school

Class (social studies)

Kidou: The best people in their fields often have a certain philosophy of life.

I’ve been impressed quite a few times by things pro soccer players said.

Break

Henmi: Kidou-san, you’re going to Mikage Sennou to collect info today, right?

Kidou: Yeah, I’m going to watch the match.

Henmi: You know, I haven’t really done much of that myself! I’ve been thinking I should start scouting out other schools like you do~ (glance)

Kidou: Really? Then how about checking out Biyuutei, for a start?

Henmi: Ah, um… Biyuutei, huh? Alright…

Class (science)

Kidou: I wonder if my wanting to kick the ball when I see it is something like a Pavlovian response?

…I’m not a dog, though.

In the car

Kidou: I’m looking forward to seeing if Mikage’s data can beat Raimon’s idiocy.

Now then… I should spend the rest of the ride studying.

Mikage Sennou

Kidou: That move by Mikage Sennou… Sugimori isn’t the only amazing one here.

Those players who executed his command immediately are just as excellent.

They’re undoubtedly skilled… but Raimon’s movements have also drastically improved since last time.

So this is what they gained from training at the Inabikari center, eh?

…………

mar: (Hm? Yuuto-kun’s staring pretty hard at something over there…)

Option 1

mar: Are you interested in Raimon’s reserve players?

Kidou: …No, that’s not it. I was just thinking about something.

Option 2

mar: Are you interested in Raimon’s managers?

Kidou: …No. I was just thinking about something.

In the car

Kidou: It was a good match.

Mikage were better than Raimon in terms of both power and speed, but… of course they never expected the goalkeeper to shoot, with how much they rely on data.

Kidou: It was completely unexpected for me too, haha. He really is the biggest idiot I’ve ever seen.

Oh, right. I brought sandwiches for lunch. Here’s yours.

Back to school

Class (Japanese)

Kidou: “One pitch, one soul” is a saying meaning to devote your entire being to something… but it originated from baseball.

If we had something like that in soccer, I wonder what it would be? …”One kick, one soul”, maybe?

Break

Kidou: I’ll go pick up the reports for the classes we missed later.

Don’t forget yours too, mar.

Class (math)

Kidou: There was no zero until that concept was developed in India…

A world without zeros… I just can’t imagine it.

Break

Doumen: Kidou-san, welcome baaack! I heard it was Raimon’s win~

Kidou: Yeah. They proved stupidity wins over data.

Doumen: H-huh? What about stupidity?

Class (music)

Kidou: mar, are you familiar with the Triumphal March?

Hold on, I’ll play it for you on the violin. I’m sure you’ll recognize it once you hear it.

Club activities

Kidou: With Raimon’s victory against Mikage Sennou, our possible opponents in the finals have been narrowed down to three schools: Raimon, Shuuyou Meito or Occult.

Henmi: Tch! Raimon again?

Narukami: Did the guys from Mikage all get a stomach ache before the match or something~?

Jimon: No, they couldn’t have gotten this far on pure luck. It’s about time we give them some credit.

Gojou: Kukuku… You say that, but our opponent in the finals will surely be Occult, no…?

Kidou: No, we can’t say for sure.

I’ve been reading the data we got from Domon, and Raimon’s growth rate is astounding.

They keep coming up with new special moves, too. They’ve become a force to be reckoned with.

Henmi: Huh? No way. Kidou-san, are you scared of them?

Kidou: I’m just stating facts.

Sakuma: Got it, Kidou. You’re warning us to not let our guards down like Mikage Sennou because it’s just Raimon, right?

Genda: But we’re still going to win no matter who advances to the finals!

Sakuma: We’re the invincible Teikoku Gakuen, after all.

Kidou: Yeah, you guys are exactly right. We’ll crush anyone who stands in our way…!

In the car

Kidou: I do feel like walking home, occasionally…

I hear that walking stimulates the brain, so it’s easier to come up with new ideas.

At home

Kidou: …I got the class report.

Here, I’ll send it to you too.

In the bath

Kidou: Sigh… Raimon’s victory…

Maybe that’s what I was hoping for…

Dinner

Kidou: In Japan, you should always clean your plate, but it’s considered good manners to leave a little bit of food in some other countries.

That differences between different parts of the world when it comes to good manners is fascinating.

Kingcraft lessons

Kyougoku: If there is one mistake that leaders most commonly make…

That would be assuming that their instructions will be followed unconditionally.

Kidou: So a leader should stay humble, and never let their position get to their head… Right?

Kyougoku: Precisely. Forgetting that will lead them to ruin.

You will be just fine so long as you remember that, Yuuto-san.

Kidou: I’ll keep it in mind.

Later

Kidou: So the injury’s pretty serious, huh… I had a feeling it might be bad.

Hm-mh… Okay, got it.

Let me know if anything else happens. With the Inabikari training center too.

Kidou: Oh, mar. What’s wrong? Can’t sleep?

mar: (Did someone get hurt…?)

Option 1

mar: What’s going on? You said something about a serious injury…

Kidou: Don’t worry. It’s not anyone from Teikoku.

Option 2

mar: Was that Domon?

Kidou: Yeah, he was reporting to me like usual.

Kidou: Gouenji hurt his leg during the match against Mikage Sennou today.

It was when that forward from Mikage blocked his shot, remember?

Well, if Gouenji’s absence is all it takes for Raimon to self-destruct, then they weren’t worth our attention anyway.

Tomorrow’s our match against Biyuutei. We’ll advance to the finals if we win.

Kidou: I have no intention of going easy on them, no matter what kind of team they are.

I’ll watch the recording of their previous match now.

*

Kidou: Hmm. I should have a talk about how to prevent injuries with the rest of the team.

I’ve got just the book on taping…

*

Kidou: Alright, time to sleep.

Goodnight, mar.

At night…

Kidou: …………

…Gouenji…leg…

[mononoke-no-ko]

[Trans] Code Black: Lelouch of the Shred Guitar Ch08

Check out the translation for previous chapter here https://mononoke-no-ko.tumblr.com/post/678176913881235456/trans-code-black-lelouch-of-the-shred-guitar

STAGE 8 School Festival Hijacking Declaration!

With DIY spirit in both craftmanship and running a revolution.

Gramps: You’re leaving already, I see.

Lelouch: Yes, I’ve obtained what I wanted to achieve here. Thank you very much for your help.

Gramps: Even though you’ve only worked here for a short time and it started so suddenly, you’re a dear disciple and one with talent for blacksmithing. I had initially wanted for you and Rolo to take over this shop one day.

Lelouch: I apologize. There’s something I have to do no matter what.

Rolo: Um, will we meet again?

Lelouch: Yeah.

Rolo: ...can I continue to call you “Big Brother” from now on?

Lelouch: Of course, Rolo. See you.

--

Shirley: Lulu?! You finally pick up..! 

Geez, I was so worried! You didn’t answer my calls, didn’t reply emails, and didn’t even come to school!  

(on paper: Bea(t) in Ashford. Winning prize decision. Right to go on date with someone for a whole day. To make sure the date (...) The organizer will assist you)

Shirley: It’s, you know, just as I wrote in the email, they’ve announced the winning prize for the school festival competition. I also worked hard in my own practice... So I think we should do joint practice together soon...  

Kallen: That jerk, just leave him be.

Shirley: Wai... Kallen?! Whats wrong?!

Kallen: We can practice with just us, we don’t need him

Shirley: That’s...

Lelouch: Hm, it might be just as Kallen said. Perhaps I’m not qualified to be in the band with you guys. 

Shirley: Lu- Lulu!? What’s wrong with both of you?! Anyway, just come to school first okay?! You must come, okay?! Lulu?? Lulu!

C.C.: What are you planning to do?

C.C.: After hiding yourself for a few days, now are you going to break up your contract with me too?

Lelouch: Don’t worry, C.C. Kallen’s uncooperativeness is well within my  prediction. The next necessary step has already been taken. And for Nunnally...

Nunnally: You’re so mean, Big Brother! Can’t sing and play guitar at the same time, you said... So you’ve been deceiving me all this time... It’s too much!

Lelouch: In order not to hurt you... I’ll use this piece and become a “demon”!

Milley: Urgent announcement, everyone!! A threatening letter from someone who calls himself Zero has just been sent to our school! To all contestants of Beat in Ashford...

Rivalz: What’s going on?

Miley: To immediately...!

Shirley: Eh what is it?

Miley: Gather in student council room!

Miley: It seems everyone’s here. Take a look at this. This is a disc that was sent by the Zero guy.

Crowd: What the heck, he just started playing guitar out of nowhere

Crowd: Damn he’s crazy good at it

Zero: My name’s Zero! To all depraved students of Ashord Academy! We, the upholder of justice Black Knight, hereby declare that we will be competing in Beat in Ashford! 

Zero: “Whoever wins the competition can date the person they like”. While I don’t disapprove of love... But to one-sidedly make anyone who’s not a winner to be a prize commodity without any right to veto is absolutely unacceptable!! 

A right to date... For the depraved students who are appreciative of such evil... A punishment in form of destruction will fall upon them! 

The victor will be the Black Knights led by me, Zero! In the name of justice, I promise you the best stage you’ll ever see!

Incidentally, we are also taking in application for additional members for Black Knights. Heartily register yourself at the number written on the disc.

Shirley: What should we do... With this, the constestants beside us and Zero will...

Miley: Coult id be... That’s been their aim all along...

Shirley: Lulu!

Miley: You’re late, vice president!

Lelouch: I just came back but I’ve heard the story. A suspicious guy wearing a mask, he might as well be a terrorist... Nunnally will be coming to the festival too, I’m worried...

Kallen: Bet you are. Teaming up with a gutless guy like you will make me worry too.

Shirley: Kallen?!

Kallen: I’m out. Teaming up with that Zero guy sounds way more fun anyway.

Lelouch: ...how about you, Shirley? 

Shirley: If Kallen dropped out... we’d have no choice but to disband...

Lelouch: That’s right. If this result in a disband, even if Nunnally found out about the pathetic me who couldn’t sing and play guitar at the same time, she wouldn’t be as upset... Then as Zero I will win the competition for Nunnally’s sake...!

Shirley: But I... together with Lulu...

Suzaku: Unforgiveable. That Zero guy is unforgiveable! He’s throwing the school festival we were so looking forward to into such a mess! I won’t forgive him. 

Lelouch, I won’t blame you for being worried about Nunnally. This is all Zero’s fault! (leave him to me!)

Lelouch: Ye-yeah, you’re right... Dammit! This unnecessary sense of justice of him!

Suzaku: Even though the band is disbanded, let’s look for a way to revive the school festival! There’s no way I can just sit back and watch and let this go by!

Lelouch: No, please just sit back and watch, Suzaku!! Yeah, I’ll leave it to you..

Euphy: Please wait!!

Lelouch: ...Euphy!!

??: Euphemia-sama?!

Euphy: I’ve just heard the story. As one of the school festival’s sponsors, I can’t overlook this issue. I will also join the competition to prevent Zero from becoming the winner!

Lelouch: What?! Even you too, Euphy!!

Euphy: Thus, Kururugi Suzaku...

Euphy: Join my band! And let’s win the competition together!

--tbc--

[doomfox]

A dead guy and a werewolf walk into a bar...

The people of East Proctor had known Wolves for generations. The beasts were feared, terrible being of chaos and destruction. Vicious killers, murderous to beast and man.

The Slaughtered Lamb was filled again tonight. The pub was the local gathering point for the men and women of these parts, every one of them wary and afraid of the beasts that roamed the night.

They almost completely ignored David Kessler as he sat staring through his pint of bitter.

“Hey David.”

“Hnn.”

“David.���

“What”

“So a dead guy and a werewolf walk into a bar-”

“Get lost, Jack.”

“No wait, this is a good one I swear!”

The completely bared skeleton of David’s best friend Jack Goodman raised a pint he’d summoned from somewhere, the beverage spilling through his ribcage as he poured it down where his gullet used to be. Beside him, David wore an unconvinced expression and stared through his skull. “I don’t wanna hear it.”

Jack shrugged. “Your loss! Oh hey, you got friends coming.”

“Ay’up dog-boy!” A broad, stone-faced Yorkshireman cackled and gave him a look as he removed his flat cap, “’ow’s it goin’, son?”

“Not so bad, Mister Parker...” David replied wearily, wobbling a little as he raised his beer in greeting.

Parker barked with laughter. “’Ey, Maureen! A bottle o’ whiskey fer the lad! ‘E’s gonna need it in a bit I do reckon!”

The landlady shook her head and did as he asked, retrieving a bottle of Glens and dropping it before the American. “Dun’t go mekkin’ a mess! I ‘ad a right tip ter clear up last night!”

“You got it Missus Berkeley...”

The woman turned to serve another patron and David popped the bottle, tipping it back and wincing at the burn. Jack hissed and would have frowned if he still had flesh, watching David chug the liquor. “Y’know, that’s very bad for you!”

David lowered the bottle and wiped his mouth on the back of a sleeve. “Eh, it keeps everybody entertained...”

Jack shrugged again and looked out the window. “Full moon tonight David...”

“Oh no, oh gosh, oh fuck,” David said dryly, already feeling the whiskey hit, “whatever will I do.”

“Jus’ sayin’! It’s a month since I died and things got real hairy!”

David rolled his eyes and went back to his drink. He didn’t care. He was a broken werewolf. It had indeed been one month since he and his friend had been attacked, Jack being mauled and David surviving to bear the curse... but something wasn’t right. It had been one month and every night, without fail, David had twisted and warped and stretched and reknitted into his wolf form. The lack of full moon didn’t make a difference. Nobody had any idea why. It appeared David was simply an enigma.

Fortunately he was pretty docile. His body count remained at zero, as a wolf more irritable than murderous.

“Nearly time, lads!”

“So ‘ow long toneet we reckon?”

“I give ‘im a minute.”

“I say three. I reckon ‘ lad’s got a bit o’ fight in ‘im tonight.”

The people of East Proctor had damn near killed David when he’d returned, knowing as they did he’d survived the attack. Luckily Alex had been with him, and she had managed to convince them to give him a chance. It wasn’t like there was anywhere else he could go with his condition. They’d been astounded when he’d transformed and the London nurse had demonstrated his passivity, though it had taken a couple more stints in wolf-mode before they began to trust him.

“Oi! Dog-boy!” David’s ear twitched and he lazily turned to find Harold tossing a ball up and down in one hand, the man grinning from ear to ear. “Come on boy! Fetch!”

David raised his bottle and accepted the ribbing, Harold and his mates cackling between themselves at his expense. He didn’t care very much. Being a local punchline was better than the alternative that had faced him a month ago.

“Almost time, David...” Jack said, gesturing to the clock above the bar.

David shrugged. “Another night, another dollar.”

“That doesn’t work and you know it.”

David shrugged, tipping back his whiskey. “Can’t all be winners.” The pub settled back into its usual routine, the locals chattering amongst themselves while David drank seemingly alone at the bar. Just the start of another Wednesday night in East Proctor.

David spasmed and spat a mouthful of whiskey. “OW JESUS FUCK”

That got the locals’ attention alright, the entire pub looking his way as the young man slammed his hands against the bar and screwing his eyes shut.

“Ay’up, ‘ere ‘e goes!”

“Alright lads place yer bets!”

“Come on son, I got a tenner on ye!”

“Charming people!” Jack said cheerfully, as David slugged back his whiskey and cringed. The snap and crack of bone and muscle began to come from within him, the American shaking in place with liquor dribbling down his chin. “Oh hey, miss your mouth?”

“GET FUCKED”

“Hey, rude!”

David spasmed again, one arm lashing out and knocking over his leftover beer. He slid off the back of his barstool, impacting the floor and landing on his funny bone. “OW”

“Ay’up lad, watch it!”

“That must’ve ‘urt a bit!”

“Go on, dog-boy!”

David reached a hand up, gesturing for his whiskey, crying out as his bones snapped again. Somebody slotted the bottle into his hand and he threw it back, liquor splashing into his mouth and over his face. “OW!!! SONOVABITCH JESUS-CHRIST-MOTHER FUCKER!!!!!!”

“Nice one!” Jack said, happily watching as the bottle of whiskey slid from a hand that began rapidly stretching into a paw. “Oops, careful! That stuff’s expensive!”

The pub was cheering now as David rolled over, egging him on as his body began warping and stretching into a quadrupedal state. “You’re very- AH- fucking helpf-SHIT FUCK- helpful, Jack!!!!”

Jack raised his beer. “Anything for a friend!”

The pub patrons cheered again as David reared back, tossing his head backward in a scream as he contorted further. Hair snaked from his flesh, slowly beginning to cover him in his usual thick coat. He smacked his hand-paws against the floor and growled, his voice beginning to change now. He used his final few moments with a human face to utter as many curses as he could manage. “FUCKING JESUS CHRIST MONKEY SHIT FUCK PISS CUNT FUCK FUCK FUCK FU-”

His cursing gave way to warped gabbling, his face now beginning its stretch into its wolf-state, sharp teeth exploding from his gums as his jaw cracked and popped. That got a positive reaction from the onlookers, who were thoroughly enjoying themselves.

“Oh man, that always makes my stomach churn!” Jack commented, before tilting his skull. “Figuratively.”

David gave him a yellow-eyed glare before rocking back and forth on his half-formed limbs, grunting and growling and dribbling saliva onto the carpet. He was out of breath for screams now, melting into pained grunts and groans as his body began to finish up. He was covered in thick fur now, burning up in the already warm pub, his bones and muscles and organs and everything aching from the stress of their remoulding.

Finally, thankfully, with one last pop of cartilage, David’s body completed its transformation and he fell heaving with heavy breaths into the carpet.

“I think ‘e’s done!”

“By ‘eck, that were a long ‘un!”

“Alright lads, pay up!”

“Get the drinks in!”

“Three minutes and... fifteen seconds!” Jack said, checking the clock above the bar as David huffed and growled for air, “not bad, Davy-boy! Next time you might make five minutes!”

David clumsily dragged himself off the floor and limped off, moving out of the way and heading to his usual spot. He flopped back down and grunted, watching as the pub fell back into its usual nightly routine. He’d be let out in a bit, but right now all he wanted to do was rest. Somebody poured a beer into his dish and he gratefully lapped it up, aching from the ordeal. “*So... so... how’s the joke go?*”

Jack appeared in a chair beside him, raising both feet and setting them on his back. “Okay, so. A dead guy and a werewolf walk into a bar...”

[mrsmctominay]

Fluff Alphabet Jack Grealish pls❤

Fluff Alphabet- Jack Grealish

A- Activities Jack likes to take you out with his family. Seeing you get along so well with his siblings is so heart arming. You're his little sisters best friend and she always gets so excited to see you.

B- Beauty Your confidence is very attractive. You don't care about what anyone says and you always have 100% faith in yourself.

C- Comfort Soft kisses on the forehead, gentle back rubs, 'Everything's going to be okay angel'. Little things like that from Jack calm you down instantly.

D- Dreams His dreams for the two of you are big, but he doesn't think about them too much. He's waiting for the right moment where you can let the future unroll.

E- Equal I feel like it's a given that Jack's the more dominant one... He's the decision maker. Holidays, restaurants, Jack decides.

F- Fight He can hold a grudge. If he's really pissed off, he wont talk to you for hours. You've got to be the first to apologise, even if he's in the wrong.

G- Gratitude He's very grateful for everything you do for him, he just doesn't show it very well. Deep down, he knows that you're one of the best people in his life but he just doesn't let it show.

H- Honesty If there's something little that Jack thinks you wouldn't want to know, he wont tell you even though you love listening to everything he has to say. He doesn't keep anything massive from you but there has been a few upsets over it.

I- Inspiration Your support is unmatched. When times were tough, you helped push him through. Your confidence and determination is also a big part in inspiring him to not give up. If you can do it, so can he!

J- Jealous Jack is a jealous man, but he's confident that you're all his. Of course he gets jealous when other people chat you up or when his male fans comment on your instagram posts but he gets to touch so who's the real winner here...

K- Kiss

He was already an expert in this particular area, and you weren't so bad either. The first kiss just flowed so perfectly it's like you'd been kissing each other for years.

L- Love He tells you that he loves you multiple times a day. The first time he said it, was at a party. He whispered it in your ear and you immediately said it back.

M- Marriage He definitely wants to marry you but as I say, he doesn't think about it too much right now. He wants it to be at the perfect time and that wasn't right now, despite the fact your relationship is going so well, his career is just a lot right now.

N- Nickname 'Pretty', 'My one' and 'dolly' are his go-to nicknames for you. They just roll right off the tongue.

O- On Cloud Nine The boy never stops talking about you. No one ever mentions it to you though, Jack tells everyone not to tell you how much he goes on about you. It's very very obvious how in love he is with you.

P- PDA A hand on the bum or around your waist is good for him. Although you've been caught having a smooch quite a few times whilst being on holiday...

Q- Quirk Jack prides himself on how well he compliments you. Every other sentence is a compliment. He knows how to make you feel gorgeous even if you do already know it.

R- Romance Any trips he goes on with the team (club or country) he brings you back a gift. He tries to get something new every time so I suppose you could say he's romantically creative in that sort of aspect.

S- Support He knows how much you support him, so he tries to match it. He is behind you every step of the way in anything that you do. Even if he is busy with work, he always finds a way to show his support.

T- Thrill He likes to spice things up every now and again (😉😉). Routine gets a bit boring for you both, so why not eh?

U- Understanding He always tries his hardest to understand your feelings, and he gets frustrated with himself when he can't. He's learning to understand the signs of when you're upset or uncomfortable etc.

V- Value How could he possibly not value a person that gives him and his family so much joy? You're beyond important to him, even if he doesn't show it.

W- Wild Card He likes waking up early on his day off to make you breakfast. His only day to rest and he chooses to spend it treating you. What a true gent.

X- XOXO Jack is practically a human sloth. His routine goes: Go to training, leave training, come home, cuddle with you, eat and cuddle more.

Oh and did I mention that he cuddles more before bed, in bed and whilst you're asleep?

Y- Yearning He keeps little polaroid's of the two of you in his wallet or phone case that he looks at when he's missing you a little too much.

Z- Zoo Dogs dogs and uh more dogs. Yes please.

[darqx]

You gotta go straight down

Some more Rire answers for your thirsty souls! And a quick sketch of Demon!Strade if you get to the end lol.

❗️For commonly asked qs please see my BTD FAQ

He would quite literally enjoy that

No no, it exists lol: [here] :D

Sunglasses XD

He has a small collection of sunglasses he acquired through the ages (each went from being a “necessity” to a keepsake of sorts as major shift in styles happened lol) 🕶

I would say gambling yes but more so in the games that require skill more than luck. Either way “The Game” is the most extreme form of it haha i don’t know what else would top that XD

He’s usually kinda neutral about it, but i think he does enjoy kissing if/when particularly used as a means for people to find out how sharp his teeth are. Like, surprise!

Oh yes many people challenged him, esp in his first like...30 years it was chock a block lol. Sollicio demons aren’t designed to look threatening per say and he was a new King, so lots were trying their luck to overthrow him. Since he kept winning the Battle Royales’ though potential challengers have wisely backed off and he doesnt get as many of them now.

For this exact kind of reaction

If by “fall” you mean “fall in defeat during battle” then yes, that is quite possible.

There are a few ways to take “play nice” XD He generally is “polite” to people (well, we know his version of it lol) so he would be as charming as ever. But no he wouldn’t need to, as Rire’s main enemies are potentially other Royals so the most effective way of hurting them would be politically. Any other people he has issue with he can pretty much hurt directly as they are not as strong as he is.

Oh i remember that one! It was actually someone’s rendition of what they thought Rire might sound like, not necessarily what I think he does haha, but it was very fun and i enjoyed it ^^ Tumblr blog search function sucks balls but i managed to find it for you: [here]

Of course you may! I can’t guarantee how everything will pan out though lol.

I, unfortunately, cannot draw animals lol. But in keeping with his colour scheme he would be a black and yellow/gold one.

No he would actually find it vastly more entertaining to see how they deal with the issue on their own. Maybe at some point he’d step in and offer a deal just to see how desperate they’ve gotten...and we all know about his asshole genie tendencies |D;

Is this a good smile or a i’ll murder you smile? We’ll never know.

FFFT realistically going by rock/paper/scissor ideals Angel!Rire would be the OTR (One True Rire) winner but if we go according to the og results of josh fight then the OTR would be...Baby Rire lol.

I have once before in a Rire answer dump, actually! [here]

I would absolutely love to do this some day! Like Gato’s cute little laser cut acrylic ones. Unfortunately at the moment it’s not very cost effective to have them made overseas and shipped to me for sending out, I’d either have to sell them at somewhat expensive prices or sell A LOT to break even |D But maybe one day (and with some BP characs perhaps)!

Dying for it eh ∠( ᐛ 」∠)＿

Seems like Patreon isn’t very NSFW friendly anymore though, from what i’ve been seeing on the sidelines.

Have some “suggestions” for me probably.

I dont know, why can you XD

[dialovers-translations]

Diabolik Lovers DARK FATE ー Ruki Maniac [03]

ー The scene starts in the study room

Yui: ...Ah.

Hey, Ruki-kun. Are these to play chess?

Ruki: Hm? Yeah, they are. I’m sure they belong to that man.

Yui: Chess, huh...?

Ruki: Want to play a game if you’re interested? 

Yui: Are you sure? But I don’t know the rules very well. 

Ruki: That’s no issue. I’ll make sure to teach you step by step.

Yui: Really? Thank you! I’d like to give it a try then. 

Ruki: If you’re a beginner, I’ll start by explaining what each game piece does.

*Thud*

Ruki: Listen carefully. You start the game with 16 pieces. They’re divided into the following categories... 

*TIMESKIP*

Ruki: ...That should cover the general ruleset. 

I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it quicker by actually playing. Why don’t we play a game before you forget everything again?

Yui: Eh!?

( What now? He taught me everything at once, so I haven’t quite sorted out the information inside my head... )

( Besides, I’m sure Ruki-kun would be a strong opponent. I doubt it’ll be much noteworthy of a game. )

Ruki: By the way, there will be a penalty for whoever loses. 

Yui: H-Hold up!? I’m obviously going to lose!

Ruki: You don’t know until you try. There’s always the chance of beginner’s luck. 

Yui: Does that apply to chess as well...?

Ruki: Well, who knows? Come on, you can start. Going first actually does you an advantage in chess.

You can take your time. Try making your move while remembering everything I told you.

Yui: Okay...Um.

( Which one should I move...Do I just go for the safe pawn? )

( If I recall correctly, you’re allowed to move the pawn one square at a time... )

*Thud* 

Ruki: Exactly. You remembered well.

It’s my turn next...

*Thud*

*TIMESKIP*

Yui: ( ...No way. )

Ruki: ...Seems like I’ve lost.

Yui: F-For real? So I won...?

Ruki: You took down my King. Therefore, the game has ended in your favor. 

Yui: I never thought I would win...!

( Fufu, I’m happy. It’s rather straightforward, but chess is honestly kind of fun. )

( Huh? But... )

Ruki: You remembered the rules quite well, so you might continue to improve as a player.

Yui: ...Say, Ruki-kun. Could it beーー

Selection

→ Did you lose on purpose? (M)

Yui: Did you lose on purpose?

Ruki: ...Well, who knows? 

Yui: ( He probably did. There’s just no way he’d lose otherwise. )

Ruki: Did you have fun, Yui?

Yui: ( ...That confirms it. )

Yeah...I had a blast. Thank you, Ruki-kun.

→ Are you actually bad at chess? (S)

Yui: Are you actually...not all that great at chess? 

Ruki: ...

...Who knows. Maybe we’ll find out if we play one more round?

However, I highly recommend you scratch the penalty rule. ...If you don’t want to pay the price, that is. 

Yui: ( I-Is he mad!? )

( ...Ah! Did he lose to me on purpose, perhaps...? )

Ruki: So, what’s my punishment? 

Yui: Eh?

Ruki: We said there would be a penalty for the loser, remember? You won, so you get to decide.

Yui: Eh? ...W-What should I do?

( But...When I think about it, I only won because Ruki-kun helped me out. )

( Yet I have to punish him... )

Ruki: Nothing comes to mind? You won’t get a chance like this very often. 

If you don’t want it to be a penalty, then something you want me to do in general is fine too. 

Yui: ( Something I want... )

...Well.

Ruki: Go ahead.

Yui: ...I-I can’t say it!

Ruki: Excuse me...?

Yui: ( The first thing that came to mind was that I want him to hold me...But that’s way too embarrassing to admit! )

Ruki: ...

...Your thoughts show on your face right away.

ー He moves closer

Ruki: Between a kiss or my fangs...What do you want?

Yui: Eh...!? 

Ruki: That’s what you want, right?

Yui: N-No! I only wanted you to embrace me...!

Ruki: ...Heh. You fessed up.

Yui: ...Ah!

Ruki: Haha...I’m really glad you’re so easy to handle. 

Yui: ( Uu, he tricked me... )

Ruki: Only a hug, huh? I mean, that would definitely be torture to me.

...I suppose it cannot be helped. Then I’ll get the next match’s punishment out of way early. 

Yui: What do you mean, early?

Ruki: I will give you the future penalty now. It is obvious I will be the winner next time after all. 

Let me kiss you, until I’ve had enough...Nn...

Yui: Nnh...

Ruki: Nn...Well, I might never grow tired of this.

When that happens...You should just lose yourself together with me...

ーー TO BE CONTINUED ーー

→  LIKE MY TRANSLATIONS? SUPPORT ME ON KO-FI!

<- [ Maniac 02 ] [ Maniac 04 ] ->

[mansions-maiden]

Hello! I am so happy your requests are open! Could you write for the grumpy bröer, Theo and prompt #19: "we can share, only if I can feed you." Thank you!

Hello dear anon! Hope you're having a wonderful day/night. Sorry it took so much time to complete this. Hope you enjoy this!

Prompt:19. We can share, only if I can feed you

Characters: Theo, gn! MC. (not in relationship)

words: 1.3K

A/n: Cedric is side character in Theo's route. He is Theo's client

The evident discontent in those stormy blue eyes only deepened the delighted grin on your face. An incessant amusement danced in your eyes, which only prompted Theo to deepen his skin prickling glare on his co-worker as if adding fuel to the fire.

His desire only grew more when he looked in your direction, or quite precisely, at the stack of syrup-dipped pancakes in front of you.

But he had to control himself, as he remembered that he had lost the bet to you. He impatiently tapped his fingers against the table, which didn't go unheard by you. Your smile became more sympathetic and less of amusement as you saw his impatience.

You reminisced how you got how you had won the bet.

THE PREVIOUS DAY:

You and Theo were out in the city to select the paintings for his clients. Both picked a painting each to sell to Cedric, your esteemed customer.

You looked at your selection and smiled proudly to yourself. "I'm sure Cedric will choose my painting tomorrow. Theo scoffed beside you and crossed his arms. "No, knabbeltje. He's going to choose MY painting. I know his tastes and likes very well. "

"Oh please, Theo! Just because you are a famous art dealer here doesn't mean that your customers wouldn't like other's selection!" You turned to him with a sigh.

Theo raised a single eyebrow, a look of amusement in his eyes. He ran his fingers through his chestnut hair, his ocean blue eyes focusing on the small figure in front of him.

"The pup is barking against her master now, eh?"

"Speak for yourself, 'master.' "You scoffed exasperatedly.

Theo laughed mirthfully, amusement dripping in his laughter. "If you're so confident in your selection, Why don't we have a challenge?"

Your eyes perked up in interest at his statement. "Whomever's selection is picked by Cedric will be the winner tomorrow. "

You turned to him fully and asked," What will the winner get?"

Theo thought for a while before replying," The winner will get a treat from the loser in the parlour. And the losing one gets nothing to eat." You naturally accepted the challenge.

You were fuelled with a competitive spirit and accepted the challenge. Deep down, you were nervous. You knew this enterprising devil was not famous without any reason. His sharp eye and spot-on guess of others' character gives him a huge advantage over you. He's a prodigy, after all. But it was too late to take back your words by now.

The following day, you both went to Cedric's home with your paintings. You and Theo confidently smirked at each other, both of you willing to win the challenge at any cost. There was a playful tense atmosphere engulfing you both.

You asked Cedric to select a painting between the two that spoke to him the most. Time seemed to flow slowly as Cedric's hand touched his favourite painting. You squeezed your eyes shut, unable to bear the suspense any longer.

You opened your eyes, only to be greeted with a baffled expression on Theo's face. Cedric's hand was atop your painting. Your lips immediately broke into the broadest smile they can form, and your eyes were brimming with the confidence of a person who overcame their greatest difficulty.

You both finished selling the painting to him and came outside. You tapped Theo's shoulder with a grin on your face and chirped, "Well 'Master,' looks like the amateur has won the challenge this time.'

Theo smiled back at you genuinely, his fine features making him look even more boyish and handsome than usual. Your heart skipped a beat at his rare but genuine smile on his lips.

"Well, a deal is a deal. Let's go to the parlour, hondje. Gotta reward you for your hard work and victory. Looks like you're shining under my training."

You both shook your hands and smiled at each other, equally happy and feeling admiration for each other.

Theo took you to the parlour as he promised, and your mind was urging you to avenge Theo harmlessly. You thought of ways to tease Theo, and a brilliant idea popped up in your mind.

You just had to confirm one thing with him. "What was the condition again Theo, the one who lost gets nothing to eat, no?"

Theo nodded in agreement. You both took a seat. You called the waiter and were ready to give your order. But- just to taunt him, you pretended to go through the menu, thinking aloud. "Um- I crave something sweet. How about I order pancakes, Theo-? Oh, and also, I should not forget the syrup."

Theo understood your trick. Yet, he was getting riled up because you were taking full advantage of the challenge in your own way.

"Order whatever you want. And make it quick. I am not going to sit here and wait forever as you nibble on it."

You pouted at him. "I wanted to savour the pancakes slowly as I worked hard. But it looks like I can't…." You looked down at the table.

Theo sighed as he replied, "okay, stop right there. You don't have to guilt-trip me, you know? Do whatever you want."

You smiled at him, knowing that you had won the 'argument.' You ordered pancakes, and of course, the sweet syrup.

At present:

While you were taking your own sweet time enjoying the pancakes, looking at Theo trying to distract himself from his all-time favourite snack made you feel a bit guilty. You thought you had your share of fun, but you thought a little bit more of it wouldn't hurt anyone.

You looked at Theo and said, "Theo, I can't eat at peace while you are sitting there both patiently and impatiently at the same time somehow. So shall I propose an Idea?"

Theo leaned forward in his chair, a hint of curiosity shining in his eyes. "We can share the pancake, equally between us. But-" you gave a pause, looking at Theo in the eye. "But, what? Continue it, hondje."

You cleared your throat, preparing yourself for what you were about to say. "But- we can share, but only if I can feed you. "

Theo was taken aback by your proposal. He looked between you and the stack of pancakes, looking thoughtful. You were waiting for his decision. He looked hesitant, but he gave in to the temptation and accepted it. You laughed at him, amused by the way the tables had turned.

You cut into the pancakes and held your fork to his mouth, waiting for him to eat it. He nibbled at them, all the while looking away from you. The littlest hints of blush on his cheeks made you flustered as well, suddenly wondering how you look like to the other people. You looked at the glass window beside you, reflecting both of you. You looked like a couple, and suddenly, you felt butterflies in your stomach.

All of your confidence melted right there, just like the butter on the pancakes. You were about you retract your hand back, but Theo caught it gently before you could do it. He smiled at you and asked, "Are you taking back your deal? Will you leave me hungry? " You slowly shook your head, and Theo ate the remaining piece on the fork and grinned at you. "Eat fast. I also want to have my share of pancakes, as you said."

You realised it suddenly and nodded, quickly finishing up the remaining part of the pancake. Theo took the remaining half and ate it, still having a smug look on his face.

That entire evening, you were distracted, your thoughts filled with Theo and the failed challenge, which you thought would win by riling him up.

Hope you enjoyed reading it!

[duskholland]

The Fame Game (Epilogue) - Tom Holland

Summary ↠ Three years later, you and Tom are back at the Oscars.

Word count ↠ 3.3k

Warnings ↠ Alcohol mention, slightly suggestive but not really, lots and lots of fluff.

A/N ↠ I can’t believe we’re here! The epilogue! Thank you so much to everyone that’s supported me and the fic over the last three months :’) If you know me, you’ll know I really struggle committing to series, so the fact I made it here, without missing any updates, is something I’m very proud of tbh. I hope that you’ve liked the story :) The biggest thank you ever has to go to V, mischiefandi, for helping me so much in the early stages of this story... Thank you again for always listening to me <3 Additionally, a huge huge thank you to everyone that’s read, commented and sent in asks! I hope the epilogue doesn’t disappoint :)

POST-CREDITS SCENE: The Oscars: Take Two (Y)

The atmosphere at Vanity Fair’s Oscars after-party is electric.

The soft boom of the latest pop tunes seeps into the air, mixing with the warm lights and the sounds of clinking champagne flutes. The room holds Hollywood’s best, and it seems no matter which direction you tilt your head, your eyes find themselves settling over a familiar face. You’re walking amongst legends tonight, and with your hands grasped around two glistening trophies, you finally feel at home.

“Congratulations, Y/N. I’m so proud of you.”

You’re drawn away from your thoughts by the unmistakable voice of your friend Joe Keery. As you finally drag your eyes away from the golden Oscars in your hands, a smile splits across your face.

“Thanks, Joe,” you say, flashing him a blinding smile. “I still can’t believe it.”

Joe chuckles, eyeing your awards with pride in his eyes. “Two, eh?” He leans closer to elbow you, chuckling when you glare at him. “Not too shabby for your first year nominated.”

“Not too shabby at all.”

It’d been crazy - every single second of it. From the moment the nominations were announced, and you’d seen your name listed not only in one category but in two, you’ve been a whirlwind of nerves, excitement, and pride. You don’t think you’ve ever been as shocked as you’d felt when your name had been called out as the winner, not once, but twice tonight. Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, the latter of which was won for a performance in the same film which had brought about the evening’s Best Actor…

“And Tom?” Joe says, grinning. “Oscar-Winning couple, starring in a critically-acclaimed film together. Must feel pretty good, right?”

You chuckle, shaking your head as you look down at your golden trophies. “I can’t believe it,” you mutter. “I really just… Can’t believe it.”

You feel a presence behind you, and then there’s the warm touch of a hand curling around your waist. You sink into it, tilting your head to the side, letting your eyes fall on Tom, your boyfriend. With a proud smile on his lips and his own golden award held in his free hand, he’s almost glowing tonight.

“Evening, Joe,” Tom greets. Finally comfortable at your side, he leans up and presses a quick kiss to your cheek. His deep cologne sweeps across you, and you bask in the familiar tones. “Good night?”

Joe nods. “Oh yeah,” he agrees, inclining his head towards Tom’s trophy. “Congrats, man.”

“Thank you.” Tom holds his award nearer his face, a deep frown line forming between his eyes. “I always thought it would be heavier?” He muses, running his thumb over the head of it. “But it’s pretty light. Look.”

What your boyfriend does next makes your blood turn cold. He easily and haphazardly throws his Oscar at Joe, who somehow startles in time to catch it, but not before letting out a stream of expletives.

“Tom!” You exclaim, eyes widening. “Don’t throw your Oscar around!”

He grins wickedly, brown eyes dancing. “Sorry, darling,” he murmurs, kissing your cheek again. “Got a bit giddy.”

Tom’s been walking on air recently, you’ve noticed. You’d put it down to the buzz of nerves that’d characterised your last few days too, but even now, Tom’s vibrating with something. He’s been very affectionate with you, and whilst Tom is by no means a selfish lover, you can’t recall a time where he’s been glued to your hip quite as much as he’s been this last week. Always hanging around with open arms or warm lips or soft words, Tom has made it known, every second of every day, just how much he loves you. Which is a lot, apparently.

And you love him too, of course. You love him like you’ve never loved anyone else.

“You’re always giddy,” you tease. You manage to hold both of your trophies in one hand and use the other to reach up and tidy some of the hair from his face. Tom’s hair is longer now - less wavy and longer, grown a little older as the both of you have over the past three years. Looking at him now, you see a man - a very handsome, very loving man - and you’re proud of who he’s grown into.

“Only around you, love.”

Your lips roll into a soft smile, and you lean in to kiss him quickly. Tom’s mouth is warm against yours.

“Ew.” Joe’s voice interrupts your moment, and you pull away sheepishly. “Take your trophy and get out of here, you two.”

Tom reaches out and takes back his Oscar, giving Joe a fist bump. “Thanks, man. Have a good night.” There’s a moment where Joe and Tom look at one another, and Joe’s gaze flutters over to you, and you feel something there, between them - an unspoken secret. But before you can comment on it, Tom’s reaching out for your open hand and slipping his into it, and you’re moving off through the crowd again.

“I’m so tired,” you admit, stifling a yawn. You quickly smooth a smile over your face, noting with appreciation how the crowd of the afterparty seem to move out of your way. Your Oscars bring you a sort of power, and with three between you, it would seem that you and Tom are trading in top tier currency. “Can’t wait to get home and sleep.”

“Sleep?!” Tom exclaims, voice low. He squeezes your hand, glancing back to smirk at you. “As if.”

You raise your eyebrows as Tom guides you out the entrance of the party.

“What, you don’t think we’ll be sleeping later?” You ask, resting your cheek on Tom’s shoulder as you walk down the steps of the building together.

“Absolutely not.”

“Why’s that?”

Tom looks at you, eyes briefly flicking out over your figure. “You know why, darling.” He squeezes your hand before stepping nearer to kiss you. Your lips stay together a little longer, and you hum against his mouth. “You look bloody stunning in that dress, lovie,” he murmurs. His teeth brush your lower lip, and you feel your face warm. “Been thinking about ravishing you all night.”

You swallow, tilting your head to the side before kissing him again, briefly. “We’ll see,” you reply. You wink as you step back, turning around and looking out at the lines of cars before you make eye contact with your driver. “C’mon, winner. I don’t trust the house to still be standing. I still can’t believe you let Harrison and your brothers housesit tonight.”

Tom’s indignant as he follows you into the car, and for the drive back to your house in the Hills, you carry on your bickering. It’s interrupted by kisses and jokes and touches, though, and it’s all so familiar it makes your heart soar. He’s always kept you on your feet, and out of all the things that have changed since you got together, that fact has remained: no one makes you feel as intensely riled up as Tom.

“I still don’t understand why you wanted them to housesit,” you muse. The gravel of the driveway crunches beneath your feet as you walk up towards your house, wobbling a little in your heels. Tom offers you an arm, and you gratefully loop yours through it, your hands still holding your awards. You’d only brought a bag big enough to hold one Oscar, not two. “It’s not like anyone was going to break in. We have security.”

Tom just clears his throat, the sound deep and guilty. “Harrison’s idea,” he says, quickly. “They wanted to be nearer the action.”

“Yeah, or they wanted to use the wine cellar.”

Before you can continue your conversation, the front door opens and Harrison pokes his head out, eyes widening as he looks down at the trophies in your hands.

“Aye!” He calls out, clapping loudly. “Congratulations, you two.”

As you enter the house and ditch your coat and shoes by the door, there’s an interlude in which you pass around your awards and receiving raucous applause from your friends. Harry and Sam pose dramatically in front of the staircase, fighting over which one of them gets to carry two of the awards, and you hold up a phone, taking photos of it all. In the corner of the room, you see Harrison pulling Tom aside and whispering something into his ear. Before you can pay them much attention, you’re distracted by Harry deciding to try and balance Tom’s Oscar on his head.

It’s very wholesome, and you and Tom end up coerced into another series of photos together. It’s less formal than it was at the show, and Tom sheds his suit-jacket as you enjoy posing without the strain on your feet from your heels. Harrison barges in too, and then there’s a round of shots with all five of you together, laughing, talking, messing around.

On their way out, both Harry and Sam pull you in for hugs, and then Harrison takes your hands and looks at you, hard. There’s a seriousness to him that you’ve never seen before, and tears form in his eyes as he splutters out a quiet,

“I’m proud of you, Y/N.”

“Harrison,” you whine, feeling a lump in your throat. “Don’t make me cry again.”

“Sorry.” Your friend drops one of your hands and rubs at his eyes, laughing softly. “I’m just proud of you - both of you. You deserve this so much and I’m glad to call you my friend.”

You sniff loudly, cursing softly when you feel a stray tear fall down your cheek. “Thanks, Haz,” you mutter, pulling him in for a hug.

You leave Harrison with Tom as your guests leave, and walk into the living room to collapse on the sofa. You groan as you let yourself relax, sinking into the cushions. Something of an adrenaline high crashes over you, and suddenly the thought of crawling into bed and sleeping the night away sounds very tempting.

“Y/N,” Tom says, startling you. You open your eyes and find your boyfriend standing in front of you, smiling softly. He rocks back on his feet, briefly biting at his lower lip. “Come with me.”

You look at his inviting hand sceptically.

“Where?”

“It’s a surprise.”

You hum, reaching up and taking his hand in yours. You glance at your wrist, noticing with fondness in your eyes how nice his watch looks wrapped around your hand. Over the years, you’ve made a habit of always trying to keep something of his to hand - his watch, his hat, his sunglasses. It doesn’t matter the occasion - you always like to carry something with you that reminds you of Tom. It works vice-versa, and you know that beneath Tom’s dress shirt hangs one of your favourite necklaces.

Your friends think it’s sickeningly romantic. You think it’s cute. Tom loves it.

“What do you mean, a surprise?” You ask, following Tom through the house. He’d moved into your LA home two years ago, his mark evident in the fluffy throws and the various stains on the walls.

Tom shrugs, rolling his thumb over the back of your hand. He leads you upstairs. “A surprise,” he repeats. “Stop asking so many questions, darling.”

You rest your head on Tom’s shoulder, sighing happily. “You’re very romantic, you know that?”

Tom chuckles, pausing outside your closed bedroom door. He looks nervous, and he drops your hand to run his hand through his hair.

“Right.” He stops, clearing his throat, hand shifting to the doorknob. “In here.”

You wait a moment for him to do something, but he doesn’t. “Are you going to open the door?” You ask, teasing, but reaching up to rest a hand on his shoulder. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, yeah. Sorry.” Tom shakes his head, a bright smile finally finding his lips. “Crazy night.”

“Definitely.”

Tom turns around and finally opens the door, stepping aside and inviting you inside. A soft gasp falls past your lips as you walk into the bedroom and take in the scenes around you.

Someone’s been in your room since you were flurrying around eight hours earlier, tearing your wardrobe apart before the show. It’s been cleaned, the bed made and spread out with a few rose petals, and the lights are dimmed down low. The doors to the balcony are open, and through them, you can make out a large stand with a bottle of champagne.

“Tom!” You gasp. You turn around, jaw slackening further as your boyfriend procures a large bouquet of roses. The plastic crinkles as you accept them gratefully, taking a long breath and inhaling the deep romantic scent.

“Thought I’d do something nice for you,” he says, closing the door behind him. Tom smooths his hands over your waist, standing behind you and kissing up your neck as you laugh softly. “Come out to the balcony, love,” he murmurs, teeth brushing your ear.

“Was this why you had the others come over?” You ask, smiling.

“Mhmm.”

You pause to put the roses in a vase, and then let Tom wind his hand in yours and pull you out onto the balcony. It’s beautiful out here in the Hollywood Hills, and as he pours out two glasses of champagne and passes you a flute, you lean with your elbows on the railing and stare out across at the city. Shrouded in darkness, the city pulses with bright lights and distance car horns. There’s a warmth to the air that brings a smile to your lips, and a few strands of your hair drift around as the evening breeze caresses your face.

“Funny, isn’t it?” You say, closing your eyes. Tom’s just beside you, one of his hands resting over yours. He plays with your fingers before linking your pinkies together.

“Hm?”

“Do you remember the first time you were out here with me?” Tom releases a short hum, and you take that to mean the negative. “Well, it was back when I hated you. You came and you picked me up from set, and then you stayed the night. We came out here and we took photographs together.”

“Of course.” There’s mirth in his voice, and the sound of his familiar accent brings a smile to your face. You lean your head on his shoulder, looking back out across the city. “That was the first time we ever talked properly, too. I remember realising you weren’t that horrible, after all.”

You gasp. “Oi!”

Tom nudges your side. “Hey, you know you felt the same way about me too.” He turns slightly, and you feel the soft press of his lips against your temple. “We’ve come a long way since then.”

You hum, grinning. “A very long way.”

There’s a moment’s rest, then Tom kisses your forehead again and steps away from you. You whine at the loss, but continue to look out at the city, resting your chin in your palms. You’re aware of him walking over to the table with the champagne, but you’re too distracted by the distant flickering lights to pay much attention to him.

“I love you a lot, you know,” Tom calls out, voice wavering. He clears his throat, and you smile to yourself.

“I know,” you reply. “I love you too.”

“No, I love you, a lot.” Again, Tom clears his throat. You decide to turn around, your eyebrows furrowing as you realise you can’t see him, but then your eyes travel down, down, down, and you spot him.

Tom is down on one knee, brown hair wafting in the gentle evening breeze, holding a black velvet box in his hands.

“Tom?” You whisper, voice hoarse. Tears pool in your eyes and your heart drums in your chest as you realise what’s happening.

“Y/N,” he returns, a soft smile finding his lips when he meets your eyes. “I love you.” Tom glances down at the ring, chuckling. “I’ve wanted to do this for so long, but picking the right time has been so hard. So, I thought, hey, we’ve already won big tonight, why not add onto the excitement.”

You fan at your face, exhaling a deep breath.

“We have been through thick and thin together, and I am so, so glad that we came out the other side stronger for it. Your ambition and your drive make me want to be a better person, and every time I wake up beside you, it makes me want to be a better man, too. You make me better, and I love you for it.” Tom breaks off, eyes sparkling with tears as he looks up at you, meeting your gaze firmly. “I have never been more sure of anything else before. I know there’s nothing else I’d want to do than to spend the rest of my life with you. So… Y/N Y/L/N, will you marry me?”

You can barely still see him, through the tears in your eyes, but you nod. You nod, and then you fall down to your knees in front of him, and you wrap your arms around his neck.

“Of course I’ll marry you, Tom,” you get out, voice thick with emotion. “I love you more than anything.”

Tom puts the box aside and pulls you closer, and you share a kiss that rocks your world. Both of you are smiling, and it’s clumsy and salty, but you don’t care as you kiss him again and again, your hands winding into his hair. He is so perfect, absolutely perfect, and you have never felt this whole before.

“I love you so, so, so much, darling,” he says, speaking against your lips. You chuckle, humming your agreeing sentiments before kissing him again.

“I love you too.” You finally pull back, shifting your lips to brush against his nose before you glance down at the box. You grin, holding up your left hand as you wiggle your eyebrows.

“If you don’t like it, we can always get a different one,” Tom prefaces, his hands shaking as it takes him a few attempts to pull the ring from the velvet bed. His fingers are warm against yours, soft and gentle as he slides the band up your finger. Your eyes catch on the beautiful sparkling diamond, and you feel a tear roll down your cheek. “What do you think?”

“I think it’s perfect,” you say, rolling your thumb over the ring. You look up at Tom, wide-eyed and warm-hearted. “I think you’re perfect.”

“Not as perfect as you.”

You roll your eyes, your cheeks aching from the width of your smile. “You’re so cliché, Tom,” you tease, moving back to kiss his cheek. Your hands go to his shoulders, engagement ring glinting. “Are you going to be like this forever?”

Tom smiles, adoration floating in his bright brown eyes. “If you want me to be, yes.”

His lips find yours for one final time, and you bask in the feeling of him so close to you. After so long together, it feels like your souls have finally intertwined. Tom’s buried himself so deeply into your heart, into your life, that you know you’ll never get him out. You know you’d never want to.

“I love you,” you whisper. “Thank you for changing my life.”

His palm travels up to cup your cheek, warm fingertips stroking over your cheekbone. “It’s been my pleasure.”

FINIS.

extended a/n: 

thank you for reading the series, dear reader--the full thing is 59k! go you for getting through that much of my writing! I appreciate your time and willingness to enter this ‘verse with me <3

if you’ve got any thoughts on the series, please let me know! doesn’t matter how long it’s been since the series ended, I am always always always here to talk about these two :’)) would love to know what you think of their story!

we had a tfg blurb night! if you want to read any little extra bits, check out the masterpost for that here :)

[mp100fanworkstranslation]

Better than when you found it -PART 1-

A Complete Doujinshi by Maruta

This book was published in 2016, and currently out of print.  PANELS READ RIGHT TO LEFT

-Flashback-

We’ve got an overnight job? 

Yep

It’s an apartment. According to the landlady, no tenant has lasted for more than three days. We’re going to stay there and look into what’s going on with the place. 

The tenants talked about seeing an evil spirit, but it could just as well be a curse. The other tenants are spooked as well. 

Anyway, this Friday after dinner, all staff will gather at the office and we will head out to the site. 

-The Present-

Reigen stands at the door fiddling with the keys: Eh !? 

Hurry up and open the door!

Master..

Ah, I’ve got our things

Okay, I’ve gotten the door open, Mob, you can go on ahead

Okay

Ugh...

Reigen: Before we go in, I want to go over a few things we should all be aware of. Our onsite investigation here will last three days and two nights....

Anything we do, we do in pairs. We have a strong team, and I don’t think we’ll have a problem, but we still have to take the utmost care to avoid being possessed by the evil spirit that resides here. 

Also, no one will hog the bathroom....or any other part of the unit,

Alright then! 

Let’s go Mob! You’re Up!

Mob: Oh... It’s me again...

Serizawa: Mr Reigen, should you not be the one to enter first, since you’re our......

Reigen: Okay, Okay....

Mob says as he enters the room: Sorry to disturb.....

Mob: Wow, this is cleaner than I expected. 

Reigen: I think the movers did a thorough job. It’s far cleaner than my place to be honest.

Ekubo: Why are you telling us this? It’s not like we’ve ever been there. 

Reigen: Yeah, It’s a corner unit, It’s got a bathroom separate from the shower, and rents for 200 dollars a month. 

Serizawa thinks: This is a really nice unit. It’s a shame it’s a Jiko Bukken only 200 dollars a month.... 

(In Japan, if something bad happens in a house, such as a death, or a murder there’s a belief the space is tainted by the event. So it becomes really difficult to rent the apartment out. Often the ONLY way to rent it out is to offer it super cheap.)

Ekubo and Mob thinks: There’s something here....

There’s a click as Ekubo opens a closet

Ekubo: Huh? There’s a folding bed here. 

He looks at Mob

Ekubo: So... Are we all going to fight over the single bed?

Reigen: No, Mob, you take it. 

Mob: I’m more comfortable sleeping on a floor futon. Maybe Ekubo or Mr Serizawa can decide? Rock paper scissors? 

Ekubo vs Serizawa, Rock Paper Scissors.

After many MANY rounds, there is no winner so they decide all sleep on the floor. Reigen is setting the alarm clock.

Mob thinks: It feels like a school trip for some reason, without the part where we talk about crushes. The others are all grown men.

Reigen: Hey we should tell fun stories! 

Serizawa: Yeah!

Reigen: You go first Mob! You’re the youngest. 

Mob thinks: Eh... what? Why am I always going first? 

Mob thinks: Something fun.....

Mob: When I was little, there was a takoyaki stand at the intersection near my house. Me and my brother often went there together.

We were very small then, but I still remember it clearly.

Tiny Mob: Takoyaki!

Tiny Ritsu:  Ya-ki

Mother: You want some? 

 Mother gives Ritsu some money. 

Mother: Here, take this. Don’t lose it. Split it with your brother.

Ritsu: ~kay

Mother: RITSU WAIT..WAIT

No, not like that! That’s not how you split it! 

Mob: That was the first time Ritsu got yelled at. I think it traumatized him, because he wouldn’t use paper money for a long time. 

All the Adults: ITS SO CUTE (Look at these dudes, overcome with the cuteness, haha)

Ekubo: Haha, never thought Ritsu would have a story like that. I thought he just liked coins so he could flick them at people. He seems the type. 

Mob: Actually, I recently got a wallet for him for bills. He accepted it but looked somewhat horrified.  

Ritsu: Th....Thank you brother.  Mob thinks: Please don’t take this the wrong way.

Ekubo: Okay, it’s my turn! Mine’s also about Ritsu! 

Serizawa thinks: Looks like a Ritsu bashing session is starting

-Elsewhere, Ritsu loses it-

Ekubo: He slipped on the ice outside of that new pharmacy, and was just flailing around for like nine or ten minutes.

Everybody is laughing. 

Some time passes and Reigen notices that it’s almost midnight. 

Reigen: Okay everyone, we should call it a day.

He burrows into his pillow and tries to sleep, but the others are still talking....

and talking...... and talking.....

GO TO SLEEP! -He throws a pillow into everyone’s faces.

This is one of Reigen’s special moves, where he accurately pitches a pillow into the faces of multiple opponents at once, shutting them up simultaneously.

(This doujinshi came out before the OVA, where he tries to start a pillow fight. Impressive that the author called it.)

Ekubo: WHAT THE HELL! 

Reigen: WE HAVE TO GO TO SLEEP NOW

Ekubo: WHY CAN’T YOU JUST TUNE US OUT AND SLEEP YOURSELF!

Reigen: ARE YOU KIDDING? YOU GUYS ARE SO LOUD

Serizawa: Um....Let...Lets please stop fighting. 

As Serizawa attempts to break them up, a shadow creeps along the wall behind him. 

Some time passes and everyone is asleep. Reigen is smoking on the balcony. The door opens behind him. 

Reigen: So... are you also the type that has trouble falling asleep on an unfamiliar pillow? 

Serizawa: N..No... I’m just feeling a little too excited to sleep.

Mr Reigen, you smoke? -ah no, I don’t want one.-

Reigen: Yeah, I have one now and then. I don’t smoke when Mob is around. 

Serizawa: Um..... I.....

I....I’m really happy about today.

Reigen: eh?

Serizawa: For a long time, was convinced that a real job would be too much for me. The stress, the pressure, the fatigue. That I’d always have something to complain about. I thought that was what it would be like.... 

-Claw out in public-

Serizawa: In many ways, my time at Claw was interesting....but now Kageyama senpai is my friend, and also my superior. Mr. Reigen is the boss. Ekubo is the first friendly spirit I’ve ever met.

But.....

Serizawa: This is the first time I’ve ever had an outing with people that I could call my friends.  I..... Im so happy, I don’t know how to express that. 

(Again, this book came out 2 years before the OVA)

It’s unprofessional, I know. I.... I guess I still have a lot to learn.  

It’s nice isn’t it? Don’t sweat it... you’re one of us. 

Serizawa: TH..THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

Reigen: Heh... it’s fine now, though you might want to tone down that excitement if we’re out in public. 

-The Next Day-Things start getting serious.

To be continued- 

This comic is about 30 pages and will be translated in parts. Check the table of contents for updates.

I love this comic. Team Spirits and Such is four dudes that are lonely in their own different ways, and it’s so great to see them just do stuff together, hang out and just be the friends that they all so desperately need.  

[the-himawari]

A3! Hyodo Kumon - Translation [SSR] Jump in! Parkour! (3/3)

*Please read disclaimer on blog; default name set as Izumi

---

Kazunari: Okie dokes~. But it won’t be with me today…

*pulls Kumon over*

Kumon: EH, ME!?

Rude guy from the crowd: …Have you been playing this game a lot too?

Kumon: Nope, not at all!

Rude guy from the crowd: Hmmm… Fine by me. I’ll have a match with you this time

Kumon: If I win, you’ll stop cutting in line!

Rude guy from the crowd: You have my word. If you’d like, I’ll give you all the play coins I have on me too.

Kumon: Huh, are you sure!?

Rude guy from the crowd: In exchange! If I win, then that girlie will give back my Kareko-chan that she stole!

Izumi: Wait, now!? That was so long ago…

Rude guy from the crowd: If only you guys weren’t there, then that Kareko-chan would’ve been mine…

Izumi: (This guy wanted Kareko-chan that much…!) I-I won’t hand over my Kareko-chan!

Kumon: I’ll protect Director’s Kareko-chan for sure!

-pause-

Kumon: …Err, I went with the flow and said that. But what if I don’t win~!

Rude guy from the crowd: What’s this? Did you come all the way here to whine? Fine, I’ll let you choose the song then.

Kumon: Urghh, he’s making fun of me…

Yuki: It’s fine. Pick a song you’re good at.

Misumi: All you gotta do is win~!

Kumon: You’re right. Okay… Ah, I’m choosing this song!

Muku: That’s the song in the dance video you posted before this!

Kumon: Yep. This might be make or break for me…! Let’s do this!

DDD: “Highest difficulty, here we go~ ☆ Three, two, one, start”

Rude guy from the crowd: Yo, hah….

Yuki: …Oh, that guy’s got moves.

Izumi: Come to think of it, that guy also cleared it with no misses last time…

Misumi: But look! Kumon isn’t missing at all either~.

Kumon: This dance is the same as the video! My body’s moving naturally in sync to the music…!

*dances around*

Kumon: Woof, woof, woof ♪ there!

Tenma: Oi, I think Kumon’s getting more “perfects” than his opponent.

Kazunari: Those are worth more points than “nice”! You’re on a roll, Kumopi~!

Kumon: Like this~… FINISH!

Muku: Amazing, Kyu-chan! You were so cool!

DDD: “Here are the results ☆ The winner is… by a very slim margin: Player 2!”

Kumon: I-I WON!

Rude guy from the crowd: I can’t believe this…

Guest A: That dancer on the right was super cute~!

Guest B: He was just like a pro!

Rude guy from the crowd: …D-damn it. I’ll remember this!

Misumi: Hm? Where are the coins you promised~?

Rude guy from the crowd: I got it. I’ll just leave them here! Take them!

*runs away*

Muku: Ah, he left…

Izumi: Thanks, Kumon-kun! Kareko-chan is thrilled too!

Kumon: Ehehe, I’m glad I was able to protect your Kareko-chan~.

Tenma: A huge crowd formed too. You accomplished your mission of wanting people watch you dance.

Kumon: Yeah, I had so much fun!

-pause-

Izumi: (After that, we played countless times with the coins we got. It looked like everyone had a blast. Fufu.)

*knock, knock*

Kumon: You have a minute, Director?

Izumi: Come in.

*door opens*

Kumon: I’m coming in.

Izumi: You worked hard today. I was actually just remembering what happened during the day.

Kumon: Oh, really. What I wanna talk about is related to dance, so perfect timing! So you see, I found a dance that I wanna dance with you, Director!

Izumi: Eh, a dance?

Kumon: Mhm! It’s Kareko-chan’s curry dance!

Izumi: C-curry dance!?

Kumon: Have a look at this video!

Izumi: Oh my, Kareko-chan really is dancing… Ah, she’s pretending to scoop curry for this move.

Kumon: Remember when I said I felt like I saw Kareko-chan somewhere before? It was this dance video! I heard Kareko-chan’s name a lot today, so it came back to me. I thought I’d let you know. This one’s super simple, so you can do it too. Let’s dance together!

Izumi: Well…

Option 1: “It looks hard”

Izumi: This curry dance might not be as hard as the previous Woof Woof one, but it looks hard in its own way.

Kumon: Don’t worry! I’ll teach you, so give it a shot! First, right, left, one-two ♪ Then grab a spoon!

Izumi: L-like this?

Kumon: Place your hand more over here. At this angle…

Izumi: Am I doing it right?

Kumon: You got it! See, you’re a natural at this!

Izumi: Fufu, thanks.

Option 2: “I haven’t done one before”

Izumi: I haven’t done a dance challenge video before in the first place…

Kumon: Don’t even worry! It’s fine even if you don’t do it particularly well. Little kids, grandpas and grandmas—everyone’s having fun dancing. So it’s fine!

Izumi: Having fun, huh…

Kumon: Yeah!

Kumon: C’mon, you feel like you can do it, don’t you? Let’s film a curry dance video together!

Izumi: Alright, you win. I’ll take a stab at it! But don’t post it to the website, alright…?

Kumon: Okay! …Then, this dance video is a secret just between the two of us!

Izumi: (Urgh, it’s a bit embarrassing hearing him say that again...) That being said, I’ll be counting on you.

Kumon: Alriiight, let’s film a totally amazing video! Ready, set—.

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