#i just wanna make senpai proud

[actuallysaiyan]

Love Hotel(Emo!Nanami Kento x Fem!Reader)

warnings: smut, unprotected sex, mirror sex/katoptronophilia, water jet masturbation, alcohol, reader and Nanami are 19+, love hotel word count: 2.4k pairings: Emo!Nanami Kento x Fem!Reader summary: you and Kento struggle to find time to be intimate now that you're both full-fledged Grade One sorcerers who work for Jujutsu Tech, and you lie to Gojo about a mission so you and Kento can have a night alone together. you end up in a love hotel together a/n: this is sort of in the universe of most of my other Emo!Nanami fics and reader who are sorcerers together. Can be read apart or together with the others :) dividers by the lovely @benkeibear

taglist: @beneathstarryskies @an-ever-angry-bi @seireiteihellbutterfly @benkeibear @namikyento

@adharadotcom @heyitsd1yaa @darkstarlight82 @galactict3a. @erebus-et-eigengrau

@aomi04 @isabelzoldyck

Wanna be part of the taglist? Here's the link!(Please make sure to have an age indicator in your bio plz!)

It’s been weeks since you and Kento have had a moment alone. Ever since becoming full-fledged sorcerers, it’s just been mission after mission. If it’s not missions, it’s training. And if it’s not training, it’s Gojo always hanging off one of you. 

It goes without saying, you two were becoming quite pent up. Even just trying to have a moment alone to kiss and unwind was becoming difficult. Most nights, you two settled into your new shared apartment and just ate and went to bed. While you cuddled the whole night through, it was becoming just not enough. You two craved more than just cuddling. You needed affection, kisses and needy intimacy.

So the next time you both knew you had the day off, Kento figured out the perfect way to get Gojo to leave you both alone. He lied effectively about a mission you two were supposed to go on.

“I didn’t hear about this,” Gojo says, his tone accusative. 

“That’s because you’re not involved.” You come to Kento’s defense. “It’s just for him and I.”

Gojo frowns, but then he laughs and ruffles both of your hair. He leaves you both, which makes you so proud of Kento’s little fib. It was the perfect way to get your senpai to leave you both alone for the whole afternoon.

After you both get dropped off in the city, Kento takes your hand and leads you down a few dark, damp alleyways. Then you emerge in another part of the city. The lights are a bit more neon, the people look a little stranger and you cling to Kento a little more. He ushers you towards a very dimly lit building.

Inside the building, you realize it’s a hotel of sorts. Kento walks you over to one of the machines and he presses a button. There are photos of rooms showcased on the touchscreen. He scrolls through some of them, then turns to you.

“Which one do you prefer?” He asks you, seeing your cheeks turn pink.

All the rooms seem to have such a kinky vibe to them. Some of them have poles in the middle of the room, one of them has a stage in it, and one of them looks like some sort of wild sex dungeon. Finally one catches your eye. It’s the one with a heart-shaped bed, a jacuzzi tub in the bathroom and a mirror on the ceiling.

“This one,” you tap the screen and select it.

Kento smirks playfully and then he enters his bank card into the machine. He discretely pays for the room and grabs his receipt; the only proof that either of you have even been here.

The ride up to the room is a little tense. But only because you both were so excited to finally have some alone time together. Kento mentions that he paid extra for an overnight stay in the room. He kisses your temple, whispering sweet nothings in your ear.

He unlocks the door to your room with the keycard, and then you both enter. The room is bathed in a red-pink glow from the lights, and it accentuates the décor in here. The floor is a white and gray marble color, with a plush white shag carpet near the heart-shaped bed. The sheets are silky pink and blush red satin, just asking to be rolled around in.

Your eyes widen as you take in the sight of the very reflective mirror on the ceiling. Kento closes the door behind you both, ushering you inside gently. You notice that there is a small kitchenette area close to the door of the bathroom. Walking around, you take in more of the room.

A large flatscreen TV sits in front of the bed, and there’s also a very comfortable looking white loveseat that’s nearby for watching movies or any other activities. You make your way over to the minibar and look inside the mini fridge.

“Make yourself comfortable,” Kento says as he approaches you. “We could try out the jacuzzi first.”

You grab two beers from the fridge and you follow your lover into the bathroom. It’s all pink tiles in here with more of the same red-pink lighting. Even the jacuzzi is heart-shaped, which makes you snort. Kento laughs with you as well. Then he turns on the shower, giving you both a moment to be able to rinse off before you get into the tub.

With both of you rinsed off and your beers opened, Kento helps you into the now filled heart-shaped tub. He turns on the jets, making you moan as they begin to hit your sore muscles.

“This is too nice,” you comment as you rest your head on Kento’s shoulder.

Kento chuckles and sips his beer, “We needed this, honey.”

Both of you sigh happily as you rest in the warm water. The jets work their magic on muscles, loosening you both up. The beer makes you both feel a little more aroused than usual. Kento leans over and he kisses your lips softly, tentatively at first.

Soon you’re leaning in as well, your lips melding with his. He places his beer on the edge of the tub, his free hand coming to cup your chin. It’s not long before you’re adjusting your position so that you’re facing him almost directly. Your thighs open just a bit to allow him to get even closer to you.

That’s when you feel it. The jet hits your thigh and you squeal against his lips. Kento pulls away, a concerned look on his face. You laugh softly, taking a sip of your beer to calm your nerves.

“The jets,” you say. “I bet they could feel really good.”

Kento’s eyes widen and his cheeks redden. He then helps you get into a good position so that the jets are focused on your crotch. One of his hands reaches down to begin rubbing your clit. He presses kisses to your neck, biting and nipping softly. 

“How’s this feeling, honey?” He asks you, kissing your neck.

You let out a moan as the jets begin to thrum against your clit, “Fuck, it feels amazing.”

He helps keep your legs spread as the jets work their magic on your swollen nub. The pleasure keeps building more and more, making your whole body shudder. You try to warn Kento that you’re about to cum, but all that comes out is pathetic little whimpers and moans. 

“That’s it,” Kento coaxes you, “Cum for me.”

His hands come up to begin kneading your breasts. That’s all it takes for you to come undone. He tugs at your hardened nipples, prolonging the pleasure even more. You cry out his name as the pleasure washes over you; the tightening sensation in your lower abdomen finally releasing as your orgasm hits you hard. The jets continue to thrum against your clit, and that coupled with Nanami’s able fingers has you squirming from the overstimulation.

Finally, he brings you to sit on his lap and he holds you to his chest. Slowly, your breathing begins to normal out. Kento presses soft kisses to your temple and then all down your neck. He then leans in close to whisper in your ear.

“You looked so fucking sexy cumming like that,”

His words make your heart skip a beat. You turn to face him and your lips meet in such a sensual kiss. His hands feel so good on your skin; he caresses you so sweetly. To Kento, you are the most precious thing in this world.

“Come on, let’s go try out the bed.”

He helps you out of the jacuzzi and pulls the plug to let it drain. He grabs the soft, fluffy towels to help you both dry off and then you both slide into the complementary silk robes hanging on the wall. His hand finds yours and he guides you back to the bedroom.

You settle on the bed, looking around the room once more. Kento heads to the minibar and he finds a bottle of champagne. You watch as he uncorks it, and he pours it into two flutes. He comes over to the bed and passes one of them to you. You toast to your relationship and the amazing lie your boyfriend thought up so you two could have this amazing night together.

Kento sits on the bed with you, drinking champagne with you. You two share soft, sweet kisses and chat lightly. There’s no real pressure between you two. It’s just a peaceful time. It’s rare to have this time together and you want to soak it all in and savor it.

Eventually, after a few flutes of champagne, you start to feel needy again. Kento found a channel on the TV that just plays music, and it’s playing some of your favorite songs. Soon you feel him pushing you to lie back onto the bed. He unties the knot of your robe and strips you. Then he takes off his robe, and pulls the covers up over you both.

For a few minutes, the two of you are just making out. Soft kisses turn into more teeth clashing and tongues fighting for dominance. Your legs spread around him, wrapping around his broad frame to pull him in even closer. His hands soothe down your body, stopping only to tug on your nipples. Then one of his hands slips between the two of you, rubbing your clit slowly.

You pant as his fingers work your swollen clit, making your body heat up so quickly. You’re pulling him in for another sloppy kiss; your fingers are buried in his hair and tugging softly. Kento’s cock throbs and twitches to life.

“Shit,” he sighs. “I forgot to bring condoms.”

You swallow hard. While you had gone on birth control for other purposes, you and Kento had decided to use condoms while having sex. It was just a means to be even more responsible. You hadn’t brought condoms with you either. 

“It’s okay,” you kiss him. “Let’s do it anyway.”

Kento feels like he could faint from your words. He’s been dreaming of the day he could finally slip into your pussy raw. He never wanted to pressure you into doing anything you weren’t comfortable with, and he always used condoms that felt basically like being inside of you raw, but nothing could even come close to that feeling.

“R-really?” Kento asks, his cheeks and the tops of his ears are pink.

You nod your head. “Yeah, I want to.”

Kento reaches between you, grasping his cock. He’s practically shaking with excitement. He slides the tip between your soaked folds, making you whine and beg for him. Then he brings it to your dripping entrance, pushing in slowly.

“Oh fuck,” Kento whines.

Inch by inch, he enters your warm cunt. It’s so snug and wet and he’s not sure how long he can last like this. He’s panting like a dog in heat as he continues to slide into you until he’s bottomed out. You watch as his eyes cross from the intense pleasure and he slumps against you.

“Too fucking good.” 

You gently rub his back, soothing him from the intense pleasure. You have to admit it’s intense for you too, and you never thought it could feel like this. Eventually, Kento pulls himself up and begins rocking his hips. His large hands rest on your hips, pulling you in with every thrust of his hips.

“You feel so good,” Kento grunts. “So fucking good. So warm and wet.”

He leans in to kiss you hungrily. Your tongues roll together as he fucks into you a little faster. When you pull away from the kiss, you look up. This is when you notice the mirror that’s right on top of the bed. You thought you’d be so insecure about watching yourself have sex with your boyfriend, but seeing just how sensual it is, you find yourself even more turned on than before.

The way Kento’s back muscles flex as he fucks you harder just makes you see your man in such a different way. He’s gorgeous when he fucks you like this, but what surprises you is the way you like your own reactions in the mirror. It turns you on and arouses you to see yourself in the throes of pleasure.

“Like seeing yourself like this?” Kento asks in a breathy tone. He looks up behind him, seeing you both in the mirror. “Does it turn you on to watch me fucking you?”

You nod your head, your mind practically blank from being fucked so good and being so aroused. Kento chuckles softly before he pushes your legs to your chest. He’s much deeper in this position, and his cock is hitting your sweet spot dead on this way.

“Cum for me,” he whines. “Need to feel you cumming on my cock.”

He leans down just a bit to spit on your already wet clit, rubbing it in with his thumb. The steady rhythm of his cock inside of you was pushing you closer to that sweet release. The muscles in your groin begin to tense up once more, signaling just how close you are to cumming.

“Ken,” you whimper. “I’m so close.”

He kisses you. “Let go for me,”

He lightly pinches your swollen nub and that’s what pushes you over the edge. Your nails dig into the muscles in his back, dragging down as your walls begin to pulsate around him. Kento’s face is buried in the crook of your neck as he feels his own release becoming imminent.

“I’m cumming,” he whines. “C-can I cum inside?”

“Yes, please!”

He doesn’t need to hear more before his hips stutter. Your eyes flutter back and forth from him and to the mirror above you as you watch your boyfriend go through exhilarating pleasure. His moans are desperate and animalistic all at once as he spurts thick ropes of cum deep inside your still-convulsing pussy.

Once he comes down from his orgasm, he slumps against you again. This time his mouth finds one of your nipples, suckling softly. He huffs a little when you begin to run your fingers through his hair.

“I love you,” you pressed a kiss to his forehead.

He looks up at you, “I love you too.”

Neither one of you will regret lying to Gojo about this night.

[ryuichirou]

Replies

Catching up! So today we’re mostly having replies related to all the stuff we posted recently.

Starting with the most important question.

Anonymous asked:

Wait, Idia got called a brocon? When?

He did! Grim called him a brocon in 5-13 right after we saw Ortho for the first time :3 (timestamp on 5:42 just in case)

Anonymous asked:

How does that smoke beer donut taste?

(this is about this drawing)

Very smoky! And like something Gidel isn’t supposed to eat…

Anonymous asked:

I wanna see some of your traditional art

Actually, Anon, you’re looking at it…

The majority of things that we post daily was originally drawn traditionally, and then coloured digitally. I really want to do more art that is 100% traditional, but never get a chance to for a bunch of reasons :(

Anonymous asked:

I love your analysis holy cow! see its because of Book 5 that i cant stop seeing Vil and Rook as mom and dad. i love this ship mind you, (they are my comfort ship and it gives me life whenever you draw them you beautiful soul) but even if some didnt see them as a romantic couple--in my opinion they still have that VIBE you know? Like whenever they're there you just cant help but feel like BRO THEY WOULD BEAT UP YOUR BULLIES AND THEN GROUND YOU AND SEND YOU TO YOUR ROOM FOR FIGHTING IN THE FIRST PLACE LOL is it just a me feeling?

(this is related to this post)

Thank you for your kind words, Anon! I am very happy you enjoyed the analysis and that you like my RookVil art <3

Yeah, I think these two being very parental is pretty obvious and pretty intentional! All jokes aside, Pomefiore trio really feels like it was written in a way that they would read as a family. We don’t usually like this trope because characters playing house could get pretty boring, and a lot of family-related tropes don’t resonate with us at all. So I am surprised to this day that we love Pomefiore’s vibes so much. I’m guessing that it’s because of how unusual of a family they are, how Epel actually fights with Vil a lot, and how he grows from being a little brat to being a little brat that is eager to grow and excited to show his senpais his new cool magic tricks, while they tease him but still are very proud and excited for him. Like, they’re strict and would smack him (well, Vil would) but they also want him to grow. Woah, that sounds way too wholesome ew lol

Anyways! Even if we exclude Epel, and this is another thing I’ve talked about a lot, I genuinely feel like Rook and Vil were intentionally written as a couple that has been together for quite some time, at least coding-wise. There are just too many tropes and situations that they have that are usually used for couples… Alright I’ll stop myself or I’ll rant about them again even though I just did a couple of weeks ago.

blackbutlerfandomnerddomain asked:

I just love baby Vil so much, makes me wonder what happened

(this is about this drawing)

Adults with shitty opinions + kids that can’t separate reality from fiction happened… truly, two of the worst things that could happen to a possible friendship between actors.

A couple of asks about this drawing:

Anonymous asked:

Oh oh! I saw! Che'nya art! We (smiley kitty fans) are starving! Thank you for the food! It is delicious! May we have another plate, please?

Poor smiley kitty fans! :( I am so sorry you’re starving! Please enjoy your food.

Unfortunately I don’t have any more smiley catfood for you…….. yet.

Anonymous asked:

*see Chenya *

*starts biting at the bars of my containment*

Better question for him..... What that tongue do??? 👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀

What that tongue doesn’t do, Anon? Wink

Anonymous asked:

Question. How much of Riddle's body do you think Che'nya would lick to clean him?

In theory, he’d probably get bored pretty quickly, but I kind of want him to just keep licking… Riddle thought it would be over 15 minutes ago, but Che’nya’s still licking… The moment he would be done with his face, ears and head (cat saliva in Riddle’s hair…), Riddle would realise that Che’nya is determined to lick him all over. Time to call Trey…

blackbutlerfandomnerddomain asked:

Riddle gets licked my Chenya often in my lil delulu ass world

Sometimes Che’nya randomly appears, licks his cheek and disappears again.

Anonymous asked:

Bro I gotta know, what do the tweel's dick(s) look like on their merform? I was scrolling on ur bluesky and saw this one with jade and idia and something between idia's legs and I was like "is that his dick?" If so DAYUM! May that bussy rest in peace

Love your art and speedpaints btw💗

Thank you for enjoying my art and especially my speedpaints! I am very happy to hear that <3

Hehe I’m glad you liked that one! I had a lot of fun with that piece.

I feel like I draw merpeen differently every single time lol but I love the design we came up with for that Jade/Idia drawing, and in fact I do have a post in which I talk about how it probably works! There aren’t any pictures there, but there are some interesting thoughts…

[nero-vanderwolf]

August 21, 2010 

Tatsumi Port Memorial Hospital 

“...Hey, guys.” 

Junpei sits down in the cold plastic chair beside the twins. Their heart monitors beep in unison like always. Their chests rise and fall in unison like always. There’s no response from either of them. Like always. 

“Uh... Just wanted to catch you two up. Akihiko and Shinjiro-senpai moved out of the dorms and got an apartment. After Ken finishes out elementary school, he and Koro-chan are gonna move in with ‘em.” 

He pauses. He doesn’t know why, it’s not like they’ll suddenly open their eyes and listen to him. He isn’t even sure if they can hear him now. 

“Yuka-tan is the head of the archery club now. She says it gets pretty stressful sometimes, but I think she enjoys it anyways. Y’know... It’s kinda funny. She told me she only joined so she could fight Shadows, but she’s stayin’ in the club anyways.” 

Another pause. Another moment of crippling realisation that they may never hear him again. Another deep breath. 

“Uh- I brought my grades up! Y’know, I think all that shit with the Fall kinda helped get my head outta my ass. I may not like studying or homework, but sometimes you gotta grit your teeth and do the crap you don’t wanna do. Like fight Shadows.” 

He laughs. It doesn’t sound right to his own ears. It grates at his throat. How dare he laugh, how dare he joke, when the two people he cared about most, who sacrificed themselves for him and the others, lay there hooked up to machines just to survive? 

How dare he be anything at all when there are others who have suffered more? 

...He recalls something Kotone told him once, while he was grieving Chidori so long ago. 

“You held her dear to you, and she traded her life for yours. That’s not something to be taken lightly, or joked about. You’re allowed to grieve, Junpei, and if you don’t give yourself the time to process and mourn, I’m gonna kick your ass.” 

He held the twins dear to him. Still does, really. They traded their lives for his, and the others’. It’s hard to make jokes about it, even after all these months. But he’s allowed to grieve- allowed to mourn their lives and the crushing fact that they had used themselves as a barrier between Nyx and the world. 

If he didn't take his time like this, someone from S.E.E.S would kick his sorry ass. Probably Shinjiro-senpai and all his terrifying, comforting glory. 

“What else... Oh, yeah! Fuuka has gotten way better at cooking. Honestly, it’s kinda a shame you guys can’t taste her cooking- Shinjiro-senpai might have some serious competition soon! Well- okay, maybe not, but I’m serious! She’s, like, taken over Shinjiro-senpai’s role since he left.” 

Junpei chuckles, remembering when she was first learning to cook. She had accidentally set the dorm kitchen on fire, and made it worse by throwing water on the grease. Now, she could easily whip up whatever someone was craving, and had made Shinjiro-senpai proud when she (successfully) improvised a recipe. 

“There... Isn’t really that much left to say. Aigis misses you two a lot, but since we’re all gonna be so busy, we won’t be able to visit for a while. So once we’re all settled, and we have some time, we’ll visit again. Okay? Take care, dudes. Love ya.” 

There’s still time left in visitation, he could stay and talk about him following his baseball dreams, or Mitsuru and Yukari finally getting their heads out of their asses and getting together, or Ken asking him if he knows any other words for ‘Dad’ for “no reason in particular”. 

But he leaves it all unsaid. He’ll tell them next time he sees them. He promised, after all. 

THE PREVIOUS KOTONE AND JUNPEI INTERACTION FIC IS RELATED TO THIS ONE HOLY SHIT!!!!!! KOTONE TELLING JUNPEI ITS OK TO GRIEVE IS REAL!!!! AGHHGHGHHHHAHAHHHH..... AND AKISHINJI MOVING IN WITH KEN AND KOROMARU!!! THE FAMILY!!!!!! aghhh but also junpei being scared of losing the twins. he'd probably be scared considering everything that's happened. so many people died and junpei is probably most scared since he lost chidori.... aaaghhh............

[gottaterrify]

ok look i know im not saying anything that anyone hasn't heard before but i wanna take a second to talk about Deidara's relationship with art, and his relationship with himself.

A lot of people like to call Deidara one of the more normal Akatsuki members, given that art is just one of his silly quirks, and his more monstrous features are kept to a minimum design wise.

I just feel like in comparison to someone like political terrorist puppet man sasori or “cultist loves the taste of blood” hidan, he seems a little more “normal” but lets not forget Deidara blew himself up because. *checks notes.* Itachi put him in a genjutsu once. I mean that’s really all it is at it’s base.

Art is his obsession and we know this but it really is what makes Deidara a frightening, and unstable person.

Sasori said that Deidara seemed like the type to die young, and I doubt that was because he thought that Deidara wasn’t skilled. I mean I don’t think anyone thought that considering he was being recruited into the akatsuki but still lol.

But he literally spends the first few minutes of their interaction showing his whole hand. Clearly, he’s proud of his art, but a more experienced Shinobi may not show/ramble about his personal mantras and show clay sculptures that explode right off the bat. To explain his jutsu, even under the guise of describing his artistic vision, is just bad practice. Deidara doesn’t see that, and when Itachi cuts things short, Deidara is eager to prove his worth to total strangers, even when he doesn’t have to.

Deidara is incredible for his age, but I think (Sasuke? lol)kurotsuchi said it best when his weakness is his obsession with art. The fact that it consumes everything he does gives him tunnel vision. He doesn’t see the forest for the trees. Take Sasuke for example. Sasuke asked where Itachi was, they fought, and sasuke barely gave him 15 words the whole exchange before Deidara decided he was looking down at him. Interaction that other Shinobi wouldn’t give another thought to, Deidara sees as a personal slight.

I really just feel like Deidara is just a really lonely person, and art is the solace that he clings to. Sasori is more well adjusted(relatively speaking) because he has more to him than just his art, and connections with other people(negative or positive). He had Chiyo in his childhood, and in his adulthood, while no one was close to him, he'd earned the respect of many shinobi.

Deidara had no one in the village, and he has no one now, and the only thing that keeps him "relevant" so to speak is, again, his art. it's directly related to his place in this world, and Deidara clings to that philosophy because he genuinely feels like his life depends on it.

To Deidara, Sasori was the only person who understood what it was like to have art as his life, and we can see that in the way Deidara acts around Sasori vs the way his personality changes when he's gone.

When Sasori is alive, Deidara is calm, confident, and self assured.

When Sasori dies, and his partner changes to Tobi, whose backhanded comments and foolish nature seem to mock him, we can see Deidara become desperate, eager for some kind of control. Clinging to the role of Senpai between him and Tobi, Deidara doesn't have anything else but his art.

It's just no wonder that a mindset like this set him up for failure. he's struggling so hard for recognition from someone that it's basically a sport for him.

symbolism wise, the way that his ultimate art spreads though his body like a virus and consumes him when he finally does do himself in is just the icing on the cake.

tldr. make deidara more crazy about art in ur fics and other works. its literally the only thing he has and he's very mentally unstable about it.

[twilightmalachite]

VS★PRINCESS - Battle Royale 11

Characters: Mao, Leo, Subaru, Tsukasa, Esu, Fuyume

Translator: Mika Enstars

JP Proofreader: 310mc

"We still don’t know the important stuff, like what criteria the “Selected Idols” are being selected under."

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Season: Spring

Location: Prince Castle (Hall)

Tsukasa: Well, ES has its own fair share of Idols with odd backgrounds. I suppose it is not a surprise at this point.

Even I am asked in interviews questions like, “Why is a young nobleman from a respectable family working as an Idol?”, from time to time.

Mao: Yeah, seriously, how come? Wouldn’t you have been set for life just by taking over your family business?

Tsukasa: None of your business. …Although I hesitate to say it myself, I am aware that I have led a strange path in life.

Subaru: I’m just happy to see so many people want to become the idols I so very love.

Mao: I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of that in the future. Although it’s been said quite a bit already today, the value of being an idol is increasing.

People wishing to become idols are no longer rare and the odd ones out, it’s becoming commonplace.

From now on, we’re gonna have to compete with countless “ordinary, regular people” like that.

And the more those numbers grow, the harder it becomes to stand out. It’s gonna get tough with the excessive competition, y’know.

Tsukasa: Well, that’s exactly why becoming one of those “Selected Idols” Mr. Nice mentioned earlier is so important when it comes to considering one's future.

I don’t mean to sound crude, but… At that point, victory and glory will be assured.

That is what it means to conquer 4piece, and become selected by the world. It is like assuring victory in this life, so to speak—

Mao: You guys are already highly successful and considered one of ES’ Big 3, and yet you still want to climb higher, huh…

Tsukasa: What I’m trying to say is that people who are driven by such vulgar desires are willing to die to win. And that is why we cannot lower our guard, Senpai.

Leo: Just be honest and say you wanna be selected, Suo~! Aren’tcha a boy?

Become someone like me, where someone looks at you in awe and admiration just by hearing your name!

If we’re judgin’ by that alone, you’re losin’ to this famous adventurer, too!

Tsukasa: Are you really just that famous of an adventurer, Sagiri-san?

I've not heard of you before; those who are famous overseas are hardly spoken about in Japan, as is typically the case.

Esu: It’s not like I advertise myself as that or anything, y’know?

Fuyume: That’s right, Esu’s the greatest. ♪ He’s the son that Yume’s proud of. ♪

Esu: Can the maniac shut his mouth before he makes things even more complicated?

Subaru: But, y’know—

I did get the vague idea that being selected as a “Selected Idol” would be a massive W, but…

We still don’t know the important stuff, like what criteria the “Selected Idols” are being selected under.

Mao: That Nice guy only really basically talked about the vague concept, didn’t he?

All that’s been clearly stated so far is 4piece’s overview.

That 4piece will be held over the duration of a week.

And that there will be four different venues, with different “competitions” taking place at each during that time.

Tsukasa: Does that mean if we win this supposed “competition”, we will be selected into the Nice Dream Unit?

Esu: Who knows. You’d think that to be the case, but…

Subaru: But in audition programs, even if a participant couldn’t get results in the competition itself, those who’ve lost are chosen in the end through fan vote or through judge consensus, you know?

And conversely, those who use cowardly tactics to knock others down just to win tend to be disliked by the viewers and judges and get de-selected.

Tsukasa: So that’s how it goes, huh? I wish I had watched more Audition programs and done my research.

Subaru: So basically, I think it’s safe to say we can focus on winning the “competition”!

But while doing so, try not to behave in a way that gives off too much of a bad impression?

Tsukasa: They do say that if you are to win, you should win beautifully, don’t they?

Mao: Right. During the competition, the judges will be evaluating the participants in the form of points, the final decisions made being based on a combination of one’s “Individual Score” and “Competition Score”.

So even if you don’t succeed at the “competition”, if your performance makes you worthy of being a part of the Nice Dream Unit, you’ll have a higher chance of success—

At the very end, after the four venues are judged, the top four members with the highest overall scores will be selected… That’s the idea that the name “4piece’ seems to come from.

NiceP’s explanation wasn’t easy to understand and lacked clarity, but that’s essentially it in summary.

Leo: I gotcha~. Our ultimate objective is to be selected as one of the “Selected Idols”, so we can’t just focus on the victory in front of us, right?

It didn’t seem like it was set in stone that only one person per venue would be selected, and it didn’t seem like we’ll be wreaking havoc on each other within each venue.

So maybe we should act in a way that’d make the judges like us or somethin’, so they’d select us even if we do lose.

They’re not exactly audition programs, but I often submit my work to music selection competitions. I know the atmosphere of those sorts of things.

If all the judges are straight-laced, I’ll do a song that values convention.

And if they like new stuff, then I’ll do a song that’s novel. That sorta stuff.

Tsukasa: I see… I thought you’d be able to pass any selection competitions with ease, but you actually put a surprising amount of thought into it, don’t you, Leo-san?

Leo: You think of me as some thoughtless idiot, don’t you?

I’m not a god. These competitions are made up of a massive feast of big shots and geniuses, with the music offered up against a living human.

Of course you can’t do without putting a thought into it and expect it to get accepted.

Tsukasa: I’m learning a lot from this. And, I respect you a bit more now, Leo-san.

I thought of you as one of those aggravating creatures who always carelessly grasped victory and glory without fail, despite giving it no thought.

Leo: If I’m asked to act like a genius character like that I will, but generally I gotta rack my brains and come up with countermeasures each time, you know~?

Though this time, the content of 4piece was really so shrouded in mystery that I wasn’t able to prepare for anythin’.

I wonder what kinda “competition” we’ll actually be made to do in the end?

Tsukasa: Whatever “competition” it may be, I have no intention to lose to anyone.

Of course, that includes you too.

Leo: Bring it on! If you’d have started cryin’ all “Nooo, I don’t wanna fight my beloved Leo-san~” I would’a punched you! Wahaha!

Tsukasa: You aside, Leo-san, with our arch rivals Trickstar, and Sagiri-san from the rumors that have become somewhat tedious to go up against—not only is there nothing lacking, but it is more than I could have ever wished for.

I am quite filled with motivation.

Leo: Just be careful not to get too revved up by your competitive spirit and end up spinnin’ your wheels!

It’s a carefree celebration of love and peace, don’t look too scary else you’ll end up bein’ the guy who can’t read the room! ♪

[ ☆ ]

← prev | story directory | next →

[aeoki]

Seven Bridges - Love and Peace?: Chapter 9

Location: Yumenosaki Student Council Room Characters: Ritsu, Mao & Hitsugi

Hitsugi: That’s right, Ricchan-san! You sure know a lot! The “Peace Party” uses “Hallhands” to team up and make fun of people that don’t belong in their group!

I don’t know why but, for some reason, they’re especially malicious towards me and Anzu-senpai!

Not only that but they even keep in contact with each other and take Anzu-senpai’s work from her…

Spread weird rumours and isolate her. Aren’t they just awful? They’re basically attacking her – It’s bullying.

Mao: Anzu’s hated in the “producer course”...?

Ritsu: It’s probably more envy than hate.

Anzu is a special girl. She’s the one “producer” who made us shine brightly last year.

She’s been given special authority from the ES “P-Organisation” now. From the eyes of the people around her, it looks like she’s been given special treatment.

The more the people from the “Peace Party” think she was just an amateur last year, the more prideful and irritated they feel about themselves being outstanding “producers”. 

They’re “real producers” but they’ve been shoved aside for a newbie who just got lucky.

Mao: …If that’s true, I’d be pretty annoyed at that.

Got lucky? Anzu worked so har–

Ritsu: Like I said, there’s no point in complaining to me.

The “Peace Party” can maintain their self-esteem by seeing her that way and they don’t want to admit that they’re inferior to Anzu.

Because if they admitted it, their self-esteem – their heart – would break.

Mao: Is that how it works? I can’t really sympathise with them.

Ritsu: You probably can’t, Maa-kun. Since you’d rather find a way where no one can be hurt instead of being number one.

Whenever there was some sort of competition in the past, you’d always want to be second or third place, right? It’s kinda strange that you’re at the top of the school in Yumenosaki right now, though.

Mao: I didn’t end up here because I wanted to… It just kinda happened.

I’m just the middleman for Tenshouin-senpai and Touri. I’m not trying to put myself down or anything – I’m actually pretty proud of my position.

No. In fact, I think it’s my destiny granted to me by a god or some sort of higher being.

I’m not particularly unique nor do I have any special abilities – I’m a jack of all trades but a master of none. 

I believe there’s something only those sorts of people can do.

Ritsu: Maa-kun, I love you ♪ Let’s get married ♪

Mao: Wait until the laws change. …All jokes aside, I’ve got the gist of what the “Peace Party” is.

A big force in the “producer course”, huh. They’re prideful and don’t hesitate to attack others; a nasty group of people.

And Anzu’s being attacked by them.

Could that also be the reason behind the awful “Tanabata Fest” proposal you submitted yesterday?

Hitsugi: Yes! That’s essentially it!

Ehehe. Ricchan-san went ahead and explained everything…

I was gonna talk about the “Peace Party’s” oppression in place of Anzu-senpai. She never says anything bad about others, after all.

Mao: If I’m honest, I don’t understand where you stand in all this.

Hitsugi: Well, I guess you could say it’s my fault that Anzu-senpai’s been singled out by the “Peace Party”.

I do feel responsible, you know? That’s why I wanna teach them a lesson and put a stop to Anzu-senpai’s bullying.

Mao: Wait, what do you mean it’s your fault…?

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

[triphantoms]

And finally you, Sumire! I think your positivity is admirable, as i'm more of a pessimist. Although that positivity can be a double edged sword. You'll learn more stuff as you grow older. It always infuriates me when people reduce you to the 'notice me senpai!' character. Honestly I didn't relate much to you until this April when I met somebody whom I look up to a lot. They've helped teach me stuff and helped me get better and i have nothing but respect and want nothing more than to impress them and make them proud of me. I think a lot of people misinterpret this feeling. But you're also just a little cutie pie and i wanna squish those lil cheeks and hug you!!! I like that despite the positive outlook you hold, you still are able to see reason and think logically. I like that you're caring and supportive of others, as well as treat people with respect from the very start unless they prove to be anything but respectable.

- 🌌

Oh my gosh, thank you! You're so nice!

- Sumire ❤️

[shiningwonderland]

Reiji Kotobuki (All Star)

Translator: Belen (Twitter: reiharus)

Proofreader: Raine (Twitter: amagiyas)

Editors: Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl), Noemi (Twitter: dreaminbeyond)

Chapter Four — Dissonance Connection

Last year, some time after the Christmas live, I received a text from Kotobuki-senpai.

It’s Rei-chan! Good job on the Christmas live!! Going forward, let’s keep doing our best. By the way, wanna do a New Year’s shrine visit together? I’m thinking of inviting Otoyan and Tokki too, so make sure to come, Kouhai-chan. It’s a small shrine near the office, so I think we can take it easy since there won’t be many people. Let’s make it THE shrine visit of the year together! Anyway, I’ll be waiting for your reply. From Rei-chan ☆

I replied to Kotobuki-senpai saying that I would love to go and closed my phone.

I’m really looking forward to this visit!

And so, the day after New Year’s, I put on a kimono at my parents’ home and head to the shrine near the office in full spirits.

Reiji Kotobuki: Heya! Kouhai-chan, sorry for the wai—whaaat, a kimono?!

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes…. Does it not suit me?

I’m not used to it, so it’s not only a little difficult to wear, but also embarrassing.

Reiji Kotobuki: No-no-no, you look great! The year has just started and my eyes have already been blessed. Oh, that’s right. Happy New Year.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes, happy New Year!

We exchange our New Year’s greetings at the designated meeting place.

Reiji Kotobuki: Let’s get along this year, too! It feels like I’ve gotten a great New Year’s present. This is gonna be a good year, yup.

The moment I lift my face, Kotobuki-senpai gives me the best smile of the year.

Wah, I’m glad I made sure to come in a kimono….

Then, we meet up with Ittoki-kun and Ichinose-san and head to the shrine.

Tokiya Ichinose: … Really, such simple-minded excitement is just like a child's….

Reiji Kotobuki: Whaaaa—? Listen, it’s a kimono! Anyone would get hype, right?

Kotobuki-senpai is in a great mood as we make our way to the shrine.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah! Nanami, it looks so good on you. Very cute!

Reiji Kotobuki: See? See~?! Otoyan gets it! The New Year’s mood is rising. Thanks, or rather, I’m grateful!

Kotobuki-senpai presses his hands together and makes a praying pose in my direction.

Haruka Nanami: Wah, it's a bit much if you revere me like that….

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, Rei-chan, that’s not where you pray. Let’s go over here.

Ittoki-kun drags Kotobuki-senpai back.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hey, hey-hey! You're too honest, jokes fly over your head.

When a straight-faced Ittoki-kun tackles him in a firm grip, he laughs bitterly at the harshness of the punishment for his joke.

Tokiya Ichinose: Otoya! The entrance is over there!

Ichinose-san points in the opposite direction Ittoki-kun had been going.

The dynamic between the three is a perfect match; seeing them together makes me feel really happy.

I wonder what the Master Course was like.

I heard there were many difficulties, but still, I’m sure it was fun….

As I see the three of them chatting happily, I feel like I can picture it.

We go to the front shrine and make an offering.

Reiji Kotobuki: Say, Otoyan, Tokki, what did you ask for?

Otoya Ittoki: I asked to be the best idol in the world, of course! And for a successful live!

Haruka Nanami: Hehe, that’s just like you.

Otoya Ittoki: What about you, Tokiya?

Tokiya Ichinose: Mine was ordinary; I asked for good health…. After all, the body is the most important asset.

Otoya Ittoki: Really, Tokiya is as serious as always. Ah, hey, what did you ask for?

Ittoki-kun asks me.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, me? I….

Select the phrase!

That Kotobuki-senpai can win (+15 Love +0 Music)

I asked for Kotobuki-senpai to be able to win at the Song Festival.

Reiji Kotobuki: As expected from my partner! Wonderful, Kouhai-chan!!

Kotobuki-senpai gives Ittoki-kun and Ichinose-san a proud look as he says that.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’ll make your wish come true, for sure.

Kotobuki-senpai gives me a sweet smile.

Haruka Nanami: What did you ask for, Senpai?

When I ask that, Kotobuki-senpai puffs his chest out.

Reiji Kotobuki: Me…? Heh, heh~ That Kouhai-chan can debut. We’re partners, after all.

Haruka Nanami: Waah…. T-thank you very much!

I bow my head to Kotobuki-senpai.

Reiji Kotobuki: Don’t bow like that. I’ve only prayed. Well, I did splurge a bit with the money offering.

Kotobuki-senpai winks.

Haruka Nanami: But it makes me happy.

The fact that Kotobuki-senpai worries about me makes me happy. It makes me break into a smile without realizing.

And after staring at each other….

Otoya Ittoki: Whoa, you two are close. It kinda makes me jealous somehow.

By the time I notice, Ittoki-kun and Ichinose-san are staring at us.

Haruka Nanami: T-that’s….

Flustered, I look towards Kotobuki-senpai, who has averted his gaze as well.

Reiji Kotobuki: Okaaaaay! Now, let’s draw our fortunes, c’mon!

Kotobuki-senpai pushes my back when he says that and we head towards the fortunes.

Otoya Ittoki: Alright, great fortune, come out! … Ah, average fortune, well that's fine. How’s yours, Tokiya?

Tokiya Ichinose: Mine is… future fortune.

Otoya Ittoki: Eh, how long is it gonna make you wait?

Ichinose-san looks dumbfounded by Ittoki-kun’s question.

Haruka Nanami: Let’s see, my fortune is…. Great fortune!

Ittoki-kun comes running at the sound of my exclamation.

Otoya Ittoki: Waah, isn’t that awesome?! That’s great for you, Nanami. You'll debut for sure!!

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I’m happy.

Reiji Kotobuki: Congrats, it’s a good sign~ Okay, it’s my turn now. Come ooon!

Kotobuki-senpai pulls out his fortune vigorously…

... then freezes.

Tokiya Ichinose: Kotobuki-san, is something wrong? Your face looks a bit pale….

What…. Is Kotobuki-senpai trembling…?

Haruka Nanami: S-Senpai?! Are you alright?

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, Rei-chan, what's your fortune?

We approach Kotobuki-senpai and he slowly shows us his fortune.

Reiji Kotobuki: … Catastrophic fortune.

Haruka Nanami: Whaaaat?!

Otoya Ittoki: Whaa—?! Catastrophic?! That exists?!

Tokiya Ichinose: Shh! You’re too loud!

We stand there in shock, Kotobuki-senpai still trembling while holding his fortune out to us.

Tokiya Ichinose: Still, I’ve heard about drawing a bad fortune at New Year’s, but catastrophic… I don't even know if I should call that unlucky, or what….

Reiji Kotobuki: Wishes: won’t come true. Travel: you'll get lost. Work: failure. Marriage: no relationships. Waiting for someone: they’re not coming. Losing something: not retrieving it. Taking a path: all going wrong. Childbirth: difficult delivery.

Kotobuki-senpai reads the contents of the fortune in a deadpan tone.

He has a dark expression I’ve never seen on him before.

The rest of us exchange glances at the unexpected event.

I have to do my best and follow up as his partner now!

Select the phrase!

Let’s exchange them (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Um… here, let’s exchange ours.

I offer him my fortune as I say that.

Reiji Kotobuki: Eh...? But if we do that, your luck will….

Haruka Nanami: It’s fine, see….

We exchange the fortunes and then I tie his to the branch of a tree on the temple grounds.

Haruka Nanami: If we do it like this, the god will take away the bad luck.

Reiji Kotobuki: Really, you… are such a good girl!!

Kotobuki-senpai looks at me happily.

Reiji Kotobuki: Okay then, let’s split the luck in this one between the two of us. I'll always carry it as a treasure.

Kotobuki-senpai folds the fortune carefully and puts it in his pocket, tapping it lightly.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, please do!

Kotobuki-senpai is also very kind.

After that, we take a walk around the grounds.

We drink amazake, wander around looking at the amulets, and spend our time relaxing.

After you become an idol, there aren’t many chances to spend time outside like this anymore, so the time we’ve spent here is valuable and lots of fun.

I hope we can all get through this year without trouble and that we can spend the next year together like this again.

In my mind's eye, I place my hands together and recite that final prayer once more.

On the way back home, the conversation turns to work.

Otoya Ittoki: Um, once the live is over, I have a meeting about my next CD and then an audition for a drama. It’s for a supporting character, but it'll air during prime time. The original work is a manga and the story seems super fun. I want it really badly, so I’ll do my best.

Tokiya Ichinose: As for me, a few days ago there were talks about a drama promotion we were looking into and a movie, so I've been preparing for that.

I also want to work on my next song, so we’re having meetings about it, and funding through partnerships.

Haruka Nanami: Whoa, you two are working so hard!

“What about you, Rei-chan?," Ittoki-kun asks.

Reiji Kotobuki: Let’s see…. Aside from ongoing jobs, a request for a drama just came in…. And then, of course, there’s the Song Festival!!

He puffs out his chest as he speaks.

Reiji Kotobuki: But really, you two are working so hard, I can’t lose to you~

Tokiya Ichinose: Of course not. If our senpai were to lose to us, what would we do?

Ichinose-san sighs deeply.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. Rei-chan is our goal, you have to keep on shining more and more!

Reiji Kotobuki: Hahaha, I guess that’s right. I won’t be defeated by some youngsters just yet! Follow me, my men~

Otoya Ittoki: Whoa, wait up!!

The three of them start running and I chase after them as fast as I can.

Afterwards, we return to the office.

Haruka Nanami: Oh… do you have a meeting?

Otoya Ittoki: Yes, yes, we'll be having a meeting about hidden talents today.

Haruka Nanami: Hidden talents…?

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, Nanami, you haven’t heard?

Haruka Nanami: No….

Reiji Kotobuki: Oh, I forgot to tell Kouhai-chan…. Let’s see, you know about the New Year’s party that our agency holds every year?

Kotobuki-senpai starts to explain.

The agency holds a New Year’s party in January every year.

Although it is very exclusive, it looks like a very large party hall is booked.

And if we are to mention the highlight of this party, it would be the hidden talents contest between the stars of the agency.

Reiji Kotobuki: So for this year's party, Otoyan, Tokki and I will participate as a unit!

Haruka Nanami: Oh, is that so?

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah, it looks like we were divided into Master Course teams. Also, since the venue is so luxurious, the prize of this contest should be luxurious too, right?

Tokiya Ichinose: There will be no cameras, though, so it’s a side-show for the agency only. I think it’s a bit extreme but….

Reiji Kotobuki: Hey, hey, Tokki! It’s a tradition in our agency, so we have to do it properly. Besides, if the prize is very luxurious, you can expect the punishment game for the last place to be tremendous too. Even if it's just a side show, we can’t cut corners for this job. That's why I’m counting on your support, Kouhai-chan!

Kotobuki-senpai flashes a quick thumbs up.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes!

At my reply, Kotobuki-senpai’s team begins their meeting at full power.

What kind of hidden talents show will it be? I’m looking forward to it!

A week later, the day of the New Year’s party of Shining Agency comes.

Having all the stars from Shining Agency gathered in the same building feels so glamorous.

I'm part of the agency as well, but setting foot in this dazzling hall makes me nervous.

Reiji Kotobuki: Heeey, Kouhai-chan!

I hear Kotobuki-senpai’s voice.

Haruka Nanami: Eh…?

When I look in the direction the voice came from, I see a big, dancing lion.

Our eyes meet.

Then, the lion twists its body and runs towards me.

Haruka Nanami: What?!

I-it’s fast!

Seeing the dancing lion's extreme speed, I feel my body freeze. Then, it stops right before me sharply and its mouth opens wide.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan, welcooome! Did I surprise you?

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai!

I see Kotobuki-senpai, dressed in a kimono, emerge from the dancing lion.

Reiji Kotobuki: Today, I’m lion dancer Rei-chan. If a dancing lion bites your head, you’ll be healthy for the rest of the year. Sei! Be in good health!

Haruka Nanami: Aaaah!

The mouth of the dancing lion bites my head.

Camus: Kotobuki…. What games have you been playing with that strange puppet?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Camus-senpai. Kurosaki-senpai too!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What, you’re here too?

Kurosaki-senpai lifts his face, his mouth filled with New Year’s food.

It looks like Mikaze-senpai is here too.

Today, everyone is wearing kimono for some reason….

Haruka Nanami: Happy New Year. You all look so cool!!

Camus: Of course. Wearing the traditional clothes of this small, Asian country with style is child's play.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What? You say that, but who’s the guy who got both legs caught in one side of the hakama?

Camus: Shut up!

Ai Mikaze: Hm, Happy New Year. Do take care of Reiji this year, too.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes, yes, take care of me. Wait, shouldn't it be the other way around?

While we’re all chatting, other agency members start calling out to Kotobuki-senpai.

Male star: Rei-chan, have you been well?

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes, of course! More than well!

Male star: Don't see ya much lately, man. Workin’ a lot? You have a long-running career, yet you don’t take advantage of it.

Reiji Kotobuki: Geez~ Cut it out with the “long career” thing!!

After that, lion dancer Kotobuki-senpai speaks with a lot of people.

As expected from Kotobuki-senpai, he’s so well-known....

Between all the rush of activity, time passes in the blink of an eye….

Shining Saotome: Now!! What you’ve been waiting for, the entertainment corner. All of YOU, the hidden talents are here, YO.

After announcing the opening of the New Year’s party, the statement from the president resounds in the hall; the time has finally come.

One by one, the idols of Shining Agency will show off their hidden skills.

Despite having been busy only moments before, it's as if everyone is prepared and ready to start their performances before I can blink.

Oh, Hyuga-sensei is pulling a tablecloth this year too….

Ryuya Hyuga: OK, let’s go. Hnnng!!

Amazing, he pulled the cloth off a long table in a single movement.

But all the food is still intact and so is the champagne tower! It’s like magic!

Ryuya Hyuga: Like that!

The teams come one after another until, finally, it’s Kotobuki-senpai’s turn.

Enormous equipment is installed onstage and the surrounding lights are dimmed.

Reiji Kotobuki: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN. FATHERS AND MOTHERS. GOOD EEEVENING!

Ryuya Hyuga: What a waste of a nice set. How much was it? Looks like a fortune....

Hyuga-sensei, maybe out of habit from his work, seems to be calculating the budget involved.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Apparently, Rei-chan has paid for the preparations himself, so generous~ At least when it comes to things like these.

Reiji Kotobuki: Okay, over there~~ Keep quiet~ Now, now, Rei-chan is here with his charming friends~

Tokiya Ichinose: Please don’t put us in the same boat as you.

Ichinose-san’s retort comes from out of view.

Reiji Kotobuki: FANTASTIC VERY VERY ENTERTAINING MAGIC SHOW, STAAAAART!!

As Kotobuki-senpai shouts, some dubious music begins to play.

Kotobuki-senpai quickly puts a hand into his kimono and pulls out a small national flag.

Ah, that’s the logo of Kotobuki-senpai’s family lunch box shop….

Ai Mikaze: What, is this an advertisement? Other than that, it appears relatively unremarkable, though.

Mikaze-senpai points this out in his usual indifferent tone.

Reiji Kotobuki: Tch, tch, tch! We’re not done yet! Next, come on~~!

Kotobuki-senpai snaps his fingers and red and white petals start falling in the hall.

Haruka Nanami: Whoaaa, so pretty!

Reiji Kotobuki: Take them…. My girl.

When he winks and throws a kiss in the air, high-pitched screams from women fill the hall.

It seemed like our eyes met, but was it just my imagination?

Reiji Kotobuki: Let’s continue…. I’ll show you mysterious appearing magic. HEY, BOYS!

Tokiya Ichinose: Please don’t call me “boy.” Seriously, why me….

Otoya Ittoki: Yes, yes~! But… I wasn’t expecting this box to be heavy… and Rei-chan won’t tell us what’s in it.

Ittoki-kun and Ichinose-san emerge, carrying a small box.

It looks just big enough to fit a basketball.

What’s inside of it?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Pff, stupid. Probably just a pigeon or somethin’.

Kurosaki-senpai stops paying attention to the stage and puts some food in his mouth.

Reiji Kotobuki: Look forward to seeing it! Now, Otoyan! Cast the spell!

Otoya Ittoki: Understood! Para…? Eh. Parasol?! That’s not it…. Eh, was it bavarois?

Tokiya Ichinose: It was “Parallel pararira, papapa no pa! Pandora box, paradise!” A phrase that simple, how come you can’t remember?

What was…?

Tokiya Ichinose: Plus, saying those words is just an excuse to do the trick. Any words would be fine. You really don’t understand anything.

Somehow, from inside the box, a furry hand is….

???: Grrrrrrrrr….

Otoya Ittoki: What? Tokiya, is that your stomach?

???: ROAAAAAAR!!!

A lion rushes out of the box, accompanied by a great roar.

Haruka Nanami: Kyaaaa!!

The guests start a commotion in the hall too.

Camus: Oh, how did it fit in that small box? Quite interesting.

Syo Kurusu: It can’t be….

Syo-kun frowns.

Shining Saotome: Aaaah ME cute, cute Rodriguez~

Rodriguez?

Ah, that’s the agency’s lion talent!

Tokiya Ichinose: It’s okay, Otoya. Calm down. The lion is an animal talent.

Ichinose-san hides behind Ittoki-kun as he says that.

Otoya Ittoki: B-but, he seems really, really angry….

Reiji Kotobuki: Don’t be so nitpicky!! Here, Otoyan, bring some food to Rodrin.

Kotobuki-senpai gives Ittoki-kun a plate of karaage.

Rodriguez: ROAAAARRRR!!!

Otoya Ittoki: WAAAAAAH, H-H-HELP MEEE!!

Rodriguez-san goes after the karaage and starts chasing after Ittoki-kun, and then they leave the hall.

I wonder if Ittoki-kun is alright….

Tokiya Ichinose: Please forgive me, Otoya. Stay safe…. Well, that’s enough, let’s finish it here….

Reiji Kotobuki: What are you talking about, Tokki, there’s still much-much-much-much more!! Well, the truth is that Otoyan was going to do it, but… sei!

Tokiya Ichinose: Ah, this…. W-what are you doing? O-ouch….

Leaving him no time to resist, Kotobuki-senpai ties Ichinose-san up with a thick rope at the speed of light.

Reiji Kotobuki: Next is today’s main event! Critical moment?! Underwater escape magic!

At his signal, the cloth that was hanging over the set is blown off and a huge water tank is revealed.

This… may be….

Tokiya Ichinose: Wait, Kotobuki-san. Please untie me!

Reiji Kotobuki: Now, now, don’t say that. Come on, get in, get in~!

Kotobuki-senpai quickly pushes the bound Ichinose-san from behind and forces him up the stairs of the tank.

Tokiya Ichinose: Please stop this! I’m getting angry for real now! Even if you’re my senpai, that doesn’t mean I’ll forgive you!

Ichinose-san continues resisting with a voice that sounds strange from his body being constricted by the rope.

It certainly is very suspenseful, looking at it from here.

Reiji Kotobuki: Tokki, do you not believe in me?

Tokiya Ichinose: How could I believe in you?!

The two seem to be arguing at the highest point of the set.

Reiji Kotobuki: You don’t have to be like that. It really is aaalrighty, so don’t worry! … By the way, was this the correct knot?

Tokiya Ichinose: Don’t joke around!!!

Ichinose-san says this as he uses all of his strength to resist.

Reiji Kotobuki: Waaah, wait, Tokki, calm down!!

Kotobuki-senpai is pushed backward from the force.

Tokiya Ichinose: Wha—?!

Reiji Kotobuki: Waaatotototo—!!

Ah, they’ve fallen into the tank!

Reiji Kotobuki: Glub, gulp, gloop.

Then, Kotobuki-senpai sort of manages to grab the restrained Ichinose-san and climb up the tank.

Haruka Nanami: Wah, careful!!

As soon as I shout that, the tank falls over the hall with a crash.

The water gushing out from the tank looks like Niagara Falls.

Haruka Nanami: Are you okay?!

I panic and rush to the two of them.

Reiji Kotobuki: O-ouch…. Ow, what a failure!! But I’m glad we’re okay~

Tokiya Ichinose: We’re not okay! Hurry and get off… and remove this rope!!

Ichinose-san struggles under Kotobuki-senpai, soaked in water and looking furious as he shouts.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Rei-chan, flooding the hall is not okay~! Why have you done this?!

Ryuya Hyuga: Reiji, damn you. You better be paying for the cleaning of the venue….

Reiji Kotobuki: Eh, eeeh, sorry-sorry, it was just a joke…. Don’t be so angry at me, everybody~

Ignoring those words, everyone in the hall moves in on Kotobuki-senpai.

Reiji Kotobuki: ... Since it’s come to this…. He who fights and runs away may live to fight another day!! Bye-bee!! ADIÓS☆

Trying to look charming by sticking his tongue out, Kotobuki-senpai salutes, rushes out of the hall, and escapes.

Ryuya Hyuga: Reiji, you bastard!!

The rest of us are left celebrating the New Year’s angrily in the flooded hall.

Eventually, they catch Kotobuki-senpai and everyone scolds him.

Some time later....

I head to a TV station to have a meeting about the Song Festival with Kotobuki-senpai, but....

When I arrive at the studio, I pass by Ichinose-san and Ittoki-kun. They were supposed to appear together with Kotobuki-senpai, but now they are going home.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Does Kotobuki-senpai have the day off?

Otoya Ittoki: Yes, it seems he’s caught a cold, so the recording was called off.

Tokiya Ichinose: For someone like him to catch a cold… are pigs about to fly as well? Well, thanks to that, I can take some time off. It’s been a while.

While saying that, they look at each other anxiously.

After the New Year’s party, I was asked by my composition senpai to help arrange a score, so I was busy and couldn’t see Kotobuki-senpai.

I think it was a week ago when I saw him at the office and he was about to go to an audition for a drama….

At that time, I thought that he didn’t look too well, but thought that maybe he was just nervous, so we just talked about the Song Festival very briefly.

Since then, we've both been busy, so I worked on making the demo for the Song Festival at home on my own….

Haruka Nanami: Then that must be… the other day during the talent show....

Otoya Ittoki: I mean, that may be where it started, but he also had lots of work afterward. It seems like being in bad condition without rest made it worse.

Haruka Nanami: Is that so….

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah, it was also an outdoor location, and it seems like he couldn’t refuse because he did it as a favor for a producer he’s known for a long time.

Tokiya Ichinose: You can say it was this or that, but it’s just that he’s a busy person. You might think he looks great, and he’s always caring about others. But under all of that, he’s careless about his own health.

Otoya Ittoki: Tokiya, I can’t tell if that’s meant to be praise or not.

Ittoki-kun says that in a suspicious tone.

But I wonder if Kotobuki-senpai really is okay….

Haruka Nanami: I’m going to check on him.

Tokiya Ichinose: I see. Please take care of him. Actually… I’m a bit worried….

Ichinose-san frowns as he says that.

After parting from the two of them, I exit through the staff entrance and see a familiar figure.

Haruka Nanami: Oh… Katagiri-san?

Hibiki: Ah, it’s you. Long time no see….

I catch a glimpse of a man in a sweater next to Katagiri-san, slightly raising his hand.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you for the song battle from a while ago. I learned a lot of things.

Hibiki: Nah, you made me enjoy it, y’know. It’s good the audience enjoyed it too. So, what are you up to?

Haruka Nanami: Oh, I came to meet with Kotobuki-senpai about the Song Festival, but he’s off work due to a cold….

Hibiki: Ah, Reiji? Strange that somebody like him would get sick. Idiots can’t catch colds, or so people say.

Haruka Nanami: He’s been very busy lately, so that could have made it worse. I’m worried, so I thought I’d go to his house and check on him.

Man in the sweater: Oh….

The man in the sweater, who had been quiet until then, looks at me, interested.

Just who is this person?

Man in the sweater: Do you work for Shining Agency? Are you Reiji Kotobuki’s assistant or something?

Haruka Nanami: No, I’m a composer. I’m Kotobuki-senpai’s partner for the Song Festival….

Hibiki: Takeda-san....

Katagiri-san speaks with a warning tone, as if telling him to stop.

The man in the sweater… Takeda-san reacts to that, shrugging his shoulders.

Hibiki: You’d better go now. But I don’t think it’s a good idea for a woman to go to a man’s house alone.

That may be true but….

Haruka Nanami: But I’m worried….

Takeda: Isn’t it good? The love between partners. Trying to stop her is insensitive, Katagiri-san.

Takeda-san grins as he says that.

Hibiki: ….

Haruka Nanami: So… I’ll take my leave….

Feeling uncomfortable, I bow slightly and continue on my way.

Hibiki: Then… take care.

As he says that, Katagiri-san sharply averts his eyes from me.

I ask at the office and sure enough, Kotobuki-senpai’s cold is terrible. It seems that his phone is not on, so I can’t contact him.

Apparently, there are also some documents I need to give him, so I really should go see how he’s doing.

I obtain the address from a member of the staff, take the documents, and head for Senpai’s apartment.

Haruka Nanami: Around here...? Oh, here it is.

Kotobuki-senpai’s place isn’t far from the office.

Haruka Nanami: Such a big apartment building….

Since the door has an automatic lock, I push the apartment number button at the entrance.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes…?

I hear Kotobuki-senpai’s voice through the intercom.

He sounds pretty unwell.

Haruka Nanami: Um… It’s Nanami….

Reiji Kotobuki: Whaaat? Kouhai-chan? Cough… cough….

Haruka Nanami: Are you okay?

Reiji Kotobuki: Eh? Oh, yes. So, what’s going on?

Haruka Nanami: Um, I heard that you caught a cold, so I came to visit and bring you some documents from the agency….

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah… did you come all the way for that…?

After a few moments....

Reiji Kotobuki: I’ll buzz you in now so you can come up. Ah, and make sure to take your time! No need to rush!!

Haruka Nanami: Oh… okay….

Then, I hear the lock opening and I head upstairs to Kotobuki-senpai’s home as instructed.

After waiting for a bit before entering the apartment, with Kotobuki-senpai saying, “A bit more, please wait a bit more!!”….

Reiji Kotobuki: I’m sorry for making you come. I’m feeling better so….

I'm shown into Senpai’s living room.

His apartment is beautifully tidy….

And Senpai also looks healthier than I thought….

Haruka Nanami: Me too, I’m sorry I came uninvited.

Reiji Kotobuki: No, it’s no problem. Oh, do you want to drink something? Coffee? Tea?

Haruka Nanami: Oh, I’ll take care of it! Senpai, please sit down!!

Reiji Kotobuki: No!! Don’t come over here!! I can brew some tea myself, so....

I try to go to the kitchen, but Senpai stands in the way.

Reiji Kotobuki: Please don’t go into any rooms other than the living room! So, coffee, tea?

Haruka Nanami: Oh… then tea….

Kotobuki-senpai nods emphatically and heads to the kitchen.

Then, I guess I’ll take out the present….

Select the phrase!

Ice cream (+15 Love)

Reiji Kotobuki: Here’s your tea. Whoa! Isn’t this ice cream? And from my favorite shop!

Haruka Nanami: I’m glad you like it. Think of it as a present.

Reiji Kotobuki: Really, I appreciate it so much! Then, then.... Gonna go all-out and enjoy this delicious ice cream!!

Kotobuki-senpai puts some ice cream in his mouth.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kooo~ It’s better than usual! When I have a fever, I like having cold things. You pay good attention to details, Kouhai-chan.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles sweetly as he says that.

Then, we drink some tea….

Chat a bit in between….

But, as expected, Kotobuki-senpai is quieter than usual….

If possible, I also wanted to talk about the Song Festival, but I guess it’s better to leave it for another day….

Haruka Nanami: Then, I’ll get going…. Oh, let me clean this up.

I put the cups on the tray and try to head to the kitchen, but then….

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah, I said it’s alright! I’ll do… Ah….

Kotobuki-senpai, who stood up in a rush, now holds his head down.

Eh?

Haruka Nanami: K-Kotobuki-senpai…?

The next moment, Kotobuki-senpai starts shaking violently.

I put the tray aside in a panic and hold his body….

Haruka Nanami: You're burning up… Senpai, your fever….

Reiji Kotobuki: Haaa… haaa… haaa. You’ve seen... my messy side, hahaha….

I put my hand on his forehead and it’s very hot.

Haruka Nanami: Anyway, to your bed!

With me supporting his weight, we head towards his bedroom.

I open the door to the room that seems like the bedroom.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah… over there is… no good….

Haruka Nanami: ….

Inside, huge piles of clothes and magazines are all over the place.

In the end, Senpai’s fever is about 39ºC (103ºF).

After putting him to bed, I make him take some medicine I found and cool down his forehead with a damp cloth.

I head to the kitchen and make some rice porridge with what I find in the fridge while washing the dishes, among other things.

Senpai wakes up just as I finish making it.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’m sorry, Kouhai-chan… I didn’t want to make you worry….

Haruka Nanami: No, I’m sorry I didn’t notice. Besides, I probably went too far with the cleaning….

I sit down facing Kotobuki-senpai, who has taken a shower after sweating a lot.

He still looks bad, but he seems better than before.

I put my hand on his forehead.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… the fever seems to have gone down, too.

Reiji Kotobuki: Eh… ah, yes….

Senpai blushes faintly and looks at me.

Yuuup, he may still have a fever….

I reach out again.

Reiji Kotobuki: Thank you, Kouhai-chan…. It’s kind of embarrassing. This is the first time I've let someone see me weak like this.

Kotobuki-senpai gently takes my hand as he says that.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… um….

Reiji Kotobuki: Really, thank you. You nursed me, so it’s okay now. Looks like it was more effective than the medicine.

Ah… I’m glad. He looks a bit better now.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, Senpai, I made rice porridge. Do you want some?

I try to get up as I say that, but Kotobuki-senpai holds my hand tightly.

Haruka Nanami: Um….

Select the phrase!

……… (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: ….

Not being able to say anything, I look down at my hand where it's still being held in his.

Reiji Kotobuki: What’s the matter? Is it bad?

Kotobuki-senpai asks, looking at my face and continuing to hold my hand.

I shake my head.

Reiji Kotobuki: I see, I’m glad…. If it’s okay then, let’s stay like this for a moment and enjoy the atmosphere....

Kotobuki-senpai smiles as he says that.

Reiji Kotobuki: Alright, all charged up! Now, let's have some of Kouhai-chan’s rice porridge.

Kotobuki-senpai finally releases my hand when he says that.

Haruka Nanami: Yes.

I run to the kitchen to escape from the embarrassment.

Afterwards, I carry back the warm porridge I made.

Reiji Kotobuki: Oh, egg porridge. It looks so delicious!!

Haruka Nanami: Sorry for using the things in the fridge without your permission.

Reiji Kotobuki: And before I knew it, the kitchen’s all clean~ I’m sorry for everything.

Haruka Nanami: No, it’s fine. Besides, you have all the necessary tools and seasonings. It was easy to use.

Reiji Kotobuki: I haven’t prepared much food since I’ve been so busy lately, but I like to stock all the basics at least. That way it’s ready if anybody visits. Also, you could make this for me precisely because the kitchen was prepared! OK, thank you for the meal~ … Whoa, it’s hot!! Nah~ this is too hot. Impossible for a sick person~ It should be cooled a little more….

Haruka Nanami: Aah, are you okay? Sorry, I’ll cool it a bit.

I take the spoon from his hand and blow on the mouthful of porridge lightly.

Seeing that, Kotobuki-senpai grins.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hey, Kouhai-chan, do that thing!! The “say ‘aaah’” thing.

Haruka Nanami: Wh-what?

Reiji Kotobuki: See, if you do it, I’ll get over the cold just like that~ And also, I’m so hungry I could die.

Kotobuki-senpai fixes his eyes on me as he says that.

W-what should I do…?

Select the phrase!

Then… say "aaah" (+30 Love)

I-it’s embarrassing, but if it will help Kotobuki-senpai’s cold....

Haruka Nanami: T-then, here it comes. S-say “aaah”….

I say as I hold the rice porridge out.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan, are you okay? Your face is all red. Did you catch my cold?

Senpai pokes my cheeks.

Haruka Nanami: I-it’s not that. More importantly, please eat this fast or it’s going to fall.

The porridge sways, maybe because the serving was a bit much.

Reiji Kotobuki: Eeh, but this seems too good to eat~

Haruka Nanami: But if you wait too long, it will get cold, won’t it?

Reiji Kotobuki: Hehe, that’s right. And it was you who made it, after all. Now, while it’s warm, let’s enjoy the meal~

Senpai eats the porridge from my spoon in one bite.

I-I wonder how it is…?

Reiji Kotobuki: It’s incredibly delicious. Thank you, Kouhai-chan, I love it.

Kotobuki-senpai gives me a sweet smile.

By the time Kotobuki-senpai finishes the porridge, he seems totally energized.

Reiji Kotobuki: Thank you for the meal. It was so good! You also nursed me and cleaned up, really Kouhai-chan, you’d be a good wife.

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you very much.

I’m kind of embarrassed.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yeaaah, but before that, you have to become a good composer. Ah, that’s right.

Kotobuki-senpai claps his hands.

Reiji Kotobuki: If it’s all right with you, would you like to hold the meeting about the Song Festival here? I couldn’t give you much time.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, I’d be happy to. I have a demo done, more or less, and I also brought a music player.

I take out the player I've been carrying around so that I can listen to it any time.

Reiji Kotobuki: That’s my Kouhai-chaaan~ You’re so thoughtful. Well then, let me listen to it now.

Haruka Nanami: Yes.

I connect the player to the stereo in Senpai’s room and play the song.

SONG: "DEKIAI TEMPTATION" (S RANK)

Reiji Kotobuki: Making a song like this…. You’re a bad girl, what am I supposed to do…?

Kotobuki-senpai, who has finished listening to the song, whispers in my ear.

Haruka Nanami: Eh… um….

Reiji Kotobuki: Your melody makes me dizzy, so you’ll have to take responsibility.

He says that and looks at me as if teasing me.

Reiji Kotobuki: I see, a sizzling idol song, isn’t that nice?

He speaks happily when he’s done listening to the song.

I’m glad, it looks like he liked it!

Haruka Nanami: Yes. When people think of you, they think of an orthodox idol, so I was straightforward when making it.

Reiji Kotobuki: You really are some partner. It reminds me of songs I liked when I was little. I’m sure I can sing it well.

That said, Kotobuki-senpai sings some different idol songs.

Whoa… he’s so good.

Kotobuki-senpai notices me looking at him in amazement.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’ve loved idols since I was little; I could imitate them well. I’d gather my friends in the neighborhood park and do Rei-chan concerts and such. It was no different from what I do now.

Kotobuki-senpai looks into the distance, filled with nostalgia. But... his expression is complicated, like there’s some sadness mixed in.

As if unraveling his past little by little, Kotobuki-senpai tells me the story.

Reiji Kotobuki: They were recording a drama in the neighborhood and the producer took a liking to me by chance, so I got the opportunity to appear in that drama. Then I made a debut CD. It was popular for a while, but after that I didn’t hit big time…. I kept wandering around with no goals, but my mom found an application for Saotome Academy, and that’s why I enrolled.

Haruka Nanami: So, that’s what happened.

As if he has found the determination to do something, he takes a deep breath and exhales slowly.

Reiji Kotobuki: Really, my school days were a mess. There were many struggles, and meeting so many talented people made me feel overwhelmed. But I made a promise to reach this dream with my friends, and seeing them giving it their all really encouraged me as well. There’s no way I shouldn’t be happy that I was able to make my dream come true and live off it, honestly.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai…?

He looks very pained while talking about this, yet tries to force a smile.

That’s how it feels to me.

Reiji Kotobuki: Standing on that sparkling stage, being supported by the fans, shining as an idol. I know I’m in a privileged position, but even in that happy, shining place, I can’t enjoy it from the bottom of my heart. There are a lot of people who wanted to make their dreams come true, but couldn’t. It’s a luxury….

The shining idol that everyone loves. People look at him and think he’s happy, but they don’t know if that happiness is real.

There is sorrow hidden behind the smile that makes everyone happy….

Reiji Kotobuki: The more I work as an idol, the more my heart is kept prisoner. The same way that when the light gets brighter, the shadows get darker. I feel like I’m becoming soot-black. Still… I lust for more happiness. Maybe way too much happiness got me overexcited.

He reaches his warm hand to me and gently strokes my head.

Reiji Kotobuki: That’s the story. Weeell, let’s go back to the usual Rei-chan! Forget about this.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles while stretching.

I wish I could help ease his pain if only a little. But I can’t find a way to solve it.

Before we realize, it's completely dark outside.

Haruka Nanami: Then, I’ll be going. Sorry for staying so long.

Reiji Kotobuki: Thank you so much, really. It’s because of you that I feel a lot better. I think I’ll be able to go back to work tomorrow, too.

Haruka Nanami: But don’t overdo it; take care of yourself. Oh, that’s right!

I take the documents from the agency out of my bag.

Haruka Nanami: Here, these are the documents I came to give you. I think they’re fan letters, your schedule, and the script for a drama.

He glances through the script.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, perhaps you passed that one audition?

Reiji Kotobuki: YEEES!! I defeated Otoyan and Tokki. Lead role, GET!!!!

Haruka Nanami: The competition must’ve been tough. Congratulations!

Reiji Kotobuki: Although it’s a late-night series, it’s based on a best-selling novel. And it’s also been a while since I’ve had a leading role. I wanted to do it very badly, I’m so happy.

Whoa…. It’s unusual for him to talk like this.

It makes me happy too.

Haruka Nanami: Do your best! I support you!!

At my words, Kotobuki-senpai flashes a happy, sweet smile.

Then, he sees me to the door.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hmm, yeah, better take you to the dorms. I’m worried about you going back so late alone.

Haruka Nanami: It’s okay, it’s okay. Senpai, please go to bed.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’m feeling a lot better now. And besides… I want to be with you a little longer.

He says, looking a little embarrassed.

Haruka Nanami: But… I’d feel bad….

Reiji Kotobuki: Don’t say things like that. Your visit made me really happy, I want to thank you.

He says so and looks at me.

Reiji Kotobuki: Since I was little, everyone in my family had to work, so I pretty much grew up having to do everything by myself. Even when I was sick, I had to tough it out and get well on my own.

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai….

Reiji Kotobuki: So I pretend that I’m okay to make people not worry about me. But, from now on, I feel that I can show my weak side a little in front of you.... Please let me take you to the dorms to celebrate that.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles sweetly as he says that.

So that’s how it is….

Kotobuki-senpai is always surrounded by a lot of people, like he’s having fun….

But since he cares about people that much, he doesn’t really have anybody he can depend on.

Haruka Nanami: If I could support you even a little, I’m happy.

Reiji Kotobuki: If you say things like that, aren’t I gonna be more spoiled from now on? Well, let’s go.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles and picks up some keys at the door.

Haruka Nanami: Yes.

I nod deeply and follow him.

Then, we reach the entrance.

Reiji Kotobuki: Okay, the parking lot is this way.

We exit through the main door and head towards the parking lot, but then….

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan!!

Haruka Nanami: ...!!

Kotobuki-senpai grabs me all of a sudden.

He presses my face against his chest.

Haruka Nanami: Um… Senpa-….

The next moment....

I hear the sound of a camera flash.

It’s blinding…!

This…. It can’t be….

Reiji Kotobuki: Don’t show your face!!

Senpai shouts sharply.

The blinding flash keeps going off again and again.

I close my eyes tight and cling to him.

When the sound finally stops, I open my eyes and see a shadow running in the distance from the corner of my eye.

Is that… a black sweater?

Reiji Kotobuki: Hey, wait!!

Kotobuki-senpai tries to chase after the man after he says that, but he dodges Senpai’s hand by an inch.

The man gets on a motorcycle that is parked nearby, looks back at us for a moment, and starts the engine.

The bike soon disappears into the darkness of the night.

We’re left behind in shock.

Reiji Kotobuki: Damn it… I was careless…. I think I was able to cover your face but… I’m sorry, Kouhai-chan.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles weakly and leans against the wall of the apartment building, sliding to the ground.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai, are you alright?

I rush over to help him get up, still looking towards the place the motorcycle went in shock.

That night, I end up going to the dorms by taxi.

The next day, I go with Senpai to the office to explain the circumstances.

Hyuga-sensei listens to us and gets angry at Kotobuki-senpai’s carelessness, but later looks worried as he frowns, his eyebrows drawn together.

When we finished talking to Hyuga-sensei, I remain shocked for a while.

Haruka Nanami: I’m sorry. Even though I wanted to be careful too, it was nowhere near enough….

I really regret not having been more careful with my actions, from the bottom of my heart.

I don’t even know how to apologize anymore.

Because of me, Kotobuki-senpai’s career…. And I'm also afraid this will have a big impact on his life.

Reiji Kotobuki: It’s okay, Kouhai-chan, a scandal is like getting a medal for an idol. You have nothing to worry about. And…. Really, we were doing nothing wrong, y’know. It’s alrighty!

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai, thank you so much….

Kotobuki-senpai pats my head as if wanting to reassure me.

But….

While I nod at his words, the doubt remains in my heart.

That black sweater... and the glimpse of the man’s eyes that I caught through the helmet when he looked at me in that instant….

His features remind me of the person who was with Katagiri-san….

Haruka Nanami: It can’t be…. Right…?

Muttering that, I can’t stop the growing anxiety in my heart.

Chapter End

[hartshorn-and-isinglass]

(I see we're toeing a line again, Marve...)

I'm sitting in a front-row seat of the old auditorium, staring at an empty stage dimly lit by a single shaft of light coming through one of the back doors. I hear footfalls as someone makes their way down the rows.

"Is this seat taken?"

It's not the Muse. Not the current one, anyway.

"Wait a minute. What the hell are you doing here?"

He shrugs. "Hey, it's your brain. You tell me." He looks around. "I haven't seen this part of your head before. How come you never invited me up here?"

"I didn't even know I had an entire-ass auditorium in my head until recently. There's a lot of things I'm discovering about my mind these days. I mean, I didn't even know you were still in my head. But I guess none of you ever really leave, do you."

"Yeah, we're all still here. I've met the other Muses in the break room next to your hippocampus." He slides into the seat next to me. "Seriously though. You look like you've been having a bad day. Do you wanna talk about it?"

My voice cracks. "I'm fine."

"Marve." They put an arm around me. "If I'm here, it's probably because things are not fine."

Hot tears well up in my eyes. I try to laugh it off, but immediately realize the absurdity of trying to conceal my feelings when I'm literally sitting inside my own head next to the manifestation of some aspect of my personality.

"Yeah... okay. I'm not fine. There's a whole bunch of emotional baggage that I've apparently been holding onto since I was in high school, just a mess of weird perfectionism and impostor syndrome and depression and loneliness. That would be why you're here; my brain isn't exactly subtle about like, symbolism and shit."

I lean against him. "You were seriously one of the few good things about my teenage years, you know that, right? I looked up to you because you were like, this absolute fuckin' weirdo who I could relate to and who was also successful." I feel his shoulders heave with a barely suppressed chuckle. "No seriously," I continue. "You gave me hope that there might be a place in the world for me after all."

"There absolutely is a place for you in the world. But you know why? Because you carved one out for yourself. You did that. That's something you can be proud of."

"But now what? What was all that surviving for? When will I finally have something to show for it all?"

"Wait, seriously? You don't think you have anything to show- ohhh. You don't think you have anything good enough for the Muse. That's what this is."

I look up at him. "Hold up. Do I detect a hint of... jealousy?"

"You didn't have any hangups about showing me your work. I'm just wondering out loud what's different this time."

"Oh my God, dude."

"I realize this may sound rich coming from me of all people, but... you don't actually have to impress the Muse just because they inspired you."

"This isn't really about him, though."

"Oh? Because there's a giant corkboard posted in the chart room of your prefrontal cortex labeled 'Five-Year Plan for Getting Noticed by Senpai' that has gone through numerous revisions over the last eight months."

"Who let you into my prefrontal cortex?!"

"Marve, I'm a figment of your imagination. No one's going to badge me when I show up. But back to the point... if you're going to use us as your yardstick for whether or not your limerence has gotten out of hand, I'm going to remind you that you didn't have a five-year plan to get my attention back in the day."

"I didn't plan for anything back then. I didn't see the point. In an alternate timeline I might have, though."

"So you have more control over your life now, but you want to devote it to maybe impressing someone you've never even met?"

"He's a stand-in for me. Until I can like myself enough to be my own motivation again."

"But this limerent devotion isn't helping you if it's making you feel inadequate and anxious."

"At least something is motivating me again. I just need a reason to keep going until I can find the next reason to keep going."

"Your five-year plan doesn't include any solid strategy to transition away from chasing after the Muse as your main source of motivation. If this whole thing is only supposed to be a narrative frame for your own personal growth, where and how exactly does personal growth fit into this narrative?"

I slide off his shoulder down into my seat and sigh. "Hell of a way to get called out by my own brain."

"Marve, you know I don't hand out compliments of any kind lightly. When I said that I was impressed by how smart and talented you were, I meant it. And now I also know what extraordinary inner strength you have in you, too. You have no reason to consider yourself inadequate. If this weirdo- if you meet him IRL and he doesn't like you, that's on him, not you."

"...you're a little jealous."

"I'm not. Granted, I do have some... questions about his whole deal. But what I really care about is keeping you from running yourself into the ground again. You say you know who this is really for, but I think the boundaries have gotten too fuzzy and it's time for you to pull back and refocus on you."

"Dear God. This is possibly the weirdest pep talk I've ever received from my own brain."

"I hope it means something, to hear it coming from me. Don't forget that there have always been people out there rooting for you. Including myself."

He leans over and kisses my cheek. "I'll see you in your dreams, Marvy. I'm usually somewhere in there if you're doing the Inception Architect thing. Come find me and say hi."

With that, he gets up to leave. I watch him go, still trying to process everything that's just transpired.

[astraymetronome]

A Lesson In Gender Identity - By Deku

Summary 

“Deku..” The child started as she looked up at him. “Why are you in a swimsuit like mine?” She asked simply. Izuku hadn’t even considered her not understanding what this was, she was so sheltered from the poor childhood she had. He looked over at her and gave a gentle smile as she continued. “Cause Otosan and Oniisan don’t have them on..” He crouched down in front of her and simply smiled.

The fact Eri didn’t grow up normally tends to not pass Izuku’s mind. Until she asks him a question after they visit the beach with Aizawa and Mirio, and she notices the different attire between the three males.

Notes

I do not identify as trans! I’m non-binary so I understand some stuff and will gladly take any criticism or any information on how to fix something or make it better!

Midoriya was rather surprised when Mirio waved him over during his time with Eri. The two of them babysat her all the time and the latter didn’t like to interrupt the bonding time between each. He watched the way the child’s face lit up when he got closer, Eri immediately looking up at the blonde and saying something. With a nod of approval, she then bolted in his direction. Izuku was a little surprised but he was quick to catch the seven-year-old when she jumped up to him. He chuckled a little as she loudly giggled. He was still in his uniform and found holding her uncomfortable in the fabric but he simply just smiled and continued to walk over to the blonde as she started to talk about her day.

“Mirio-Senpai and I read books! I read one to him, Mr. Deku!” He smiled as she seemed so happy to have read, he gave a smile and was honestly very happy with her progress. He held her on his hip as he gently ruffled her hair.

“That’s great Eri-chan, I’m so proud of you!” He said with a smile as her eyes lit up at the praise. After a couple more steps he got up to the taller male and smiled. “Hey, Togata-Senpai!” He told him as he smiled, the blonde also sharing a grin.

“Midoriya! She’s been begging me and Aizawa to ask you about something.” The shorter teen looked a little surprised as he shifted her over to his other hip since she seemed to not want to be put down. He nodded a little and looked over at her with a smile.

“Oh?” He said curiously before turning his attention back to the third year. “What would that happen to be?” He asked with a smile before looking at her long hair as he and the blonde started to walk in the direction of the teacher’s lounge.

“Well-” Mirio started only to be cut off by the practically vibrating girl.

“Dad is going to take me to the beach!” She said quickly. He was a little surprised since she wasn’t one to cut people off. Her face seemed to flush with embarrassment as she buried her head into his shoulder.

The blonde was laughing as he walked, the noise seemed to make her feel better as she peaked from her hiding place. Midoriya gave a smile as he gave her a little squeeze. “We’re going to Takoba, she wanted to invite us.” He said in response. Izuku couldn’t help but smile as they entered the teacher’s lounge.

“I love that place.” He said with a smile, not bothering to mention the fact he’d been the one to clean it up. The two of them sat down on the couch as he carefully placed Eri as the blonde sat on her other side. “Turn your back to me?” He asked the smaller child as her eyes lit up and she pulled both of the hair ties off her wrists. He took them with ease before his Senpai continued his earlier statement.

“Well, Aizawa was fine with it since he is completely fine with her being comfortable, but we both wanna be sure you’d be as well.” Izuku was working on giving her twin french braids as he responded without much of a distaste or anything.

“I’ll be fine, if she needs to use the restroom or anything, I can take her since it would be easier and you both wouldn’t have to worry about strange looks.” He said simply, he was using genuine logic since it would be best just to deal with it.

“Midoriya-Kōhai, are you sure?” Togata asked again as the green-haired teen just nodded as he continued. He pulled the braids into a bun as he worked, the blonde stepping away to get the pastel blue-haired girl’s hair up. He gave a little hum as he started to hum a soft melody, just about done as his teacher and Mirio returned.

“Dad!” Eri said happily as she gave him a bright smile, not moving as Izuku finished up her updo. He removed his hands as he fixed a couple of things before looking at her.

“Too tight?” The teen asked simply before she shook her head eagerly, then bolted from the couch to be caught by her adoptive father.

The smaller teen smiled as his teacher chuckled before he spoke to his student. “Midoriya, if you get uncomfortable at any point feel free to let us know,” Aizawa said simply. Izuku nodded in response as he went ahead and gave a little wave to the young girl.

“I’ll see you tomorrow Eri-chan.” He told her with an ojigi (bow) at his teacher and senpai before moving to wave as he started to head out to move and head home for the day. He had some old swim stuff he refused to get rid of since a lot of it had some mental sentiment but he had some of it he would love to give to his imouto (little sister).

Izuku was a little nervous as he headed down to the beach, it was pretty warm out so he wore the swim trunks he planned to swim in, a change pair in his bag, along with a big t-shirt over the one piece he had on under the trunks well. He knew all of his shirts would be hard to swim in, he was probably gonna be more focused on Eri than anything, but he knew he’d get a good talking to from his Senpai and Sensei if they noticed he had a binder on for swimming.

In the bag he had brought a couple of snacks, just in case she wanted something or if anyone else got hungry, a bag weight, a tube of sunscreen, a plastic bag for his phone, a towel, and a tiny sandcastle kit. He’d sent his teacher a message about it ironically before he was gonna go buy one for her, so he just said he’d bring one. Midoriya had been very careful to keep from losing the bits as a child so had everything and it was all in good quality.

When he got to the beach he noticed Aizawa and Eri were both waiting, the little girl seemed a little impatient but she didn’t voice it or try to pull her father. He waved for a moment to get his teacher’s attention since he was focused on his child before she noticed him. “Deku!” She called out loudly, the teacher letting go of her hand as a telltale sign she could run at him.

“Hey, Eri-Chan!” The short teen was quick to move how he held his bag and scoop her from the ground as she giggled. He gave a little noise smile as he gently looked as she handed him some hair ties. He was walking both of them to his teacher, the lot meeting in the middle. Izuku had taken the hair ties before his teacher spoke.

“She wanted you to put her hair up, Yamada was ‘upset’ about it, but in the end, it’s her choice if she wants you to do it,” Shouta told him as he nodded in response. After a couple of seconds, he went ahead and moved to sit her down onto a bench as he started to mess with her hair. He was very quiet and gentle with her as he started to pull her hair up into a big old bun. He was almost done when Mirio showed up, smiling as he waved.

“Eri-Chan! Midoriya-Kōhai! Aizawa-Sensei!”How are you guys doing today!?” He asked loudly as he jogged over to them. Izuku smiled and he looked up at his Senpai as he finished up her hair with a hum.

“It should stay in place, go see Togata-Senpai.” He told her brightly as her own eyes shined and she bolted in the blonde’s direction. He sighed with fondness before Aizawa waved and stood next to him.

“I think you should go change while she’s distracted, just so you have time.” He said calmly before he just shook his head.

“I’m okay, I just need to take off my shirt. My swimsuit is under it.” Midoriya told him as he smiled, he watched as his teacher nodded before the other two got over to them.

“Otosan! Oniisan told me that I don’t have to use my floaties if I hold onto him or Deku. Can I, please?” Eri asked politely as he nodded his approval.

“Yes, that is fine. Both of you are responsible enough, but I will remind you to be mindful.” The threat in his voice was obvious to them, but the child seemed oblivious to her father’s warning. The two of them nodded as they all started to walk over to a good spot to set up as Eri scrambled from Mirio’s side to walk along with them. There were a couple of other people present but no one seemed to be bothered or side-eye the group and they were fine with that.

They put towels down, got out the sunscreen, showed Eri some snacks, and went over some ground rules. If Eri wanted to swim on her own she needed her floaties on and someone near her to ensure her safety, she needs to have her sunscreen thoroughly applied every hour, and she has to have someone with her at all times. The two teens understood what he was meaning, leaving her alone could cause her stress or she could be taken again. They can not risk her quirk activating in public or losing her.

The group was starting to settle in before Izuku remembered the sand toys. He dug into his bag and pulled them out, smiling as he showed them to her. “If you get tired of the water we can play up here on the sand.” He watched as she looked at the plastic buckets and shovel, her eyes seemed to widen at the sight of sand molds and the different animal shapes they had. Eri turned to her father with a wide smile before she giggled and reached up for Izuku with the floaties on. “Let’s go swim, then we can play in the sand!” She told him as he nodded.

Midoriya smiled at her as he nodded, Aizawa and Mirio had already taken off their shirts and he was the only one of the guys who had yet to take off his shirt. He went ahead and slipped the white over shirt off, showing the black one-piece he had on under it. Eri immediately seemed a little confused by that. He was wearing something similar to what she was in, so he wouldn’t be surprised by her confusion. He reached over and lifted her from the sand as he rested her on his hip before waving over Mirio who followed.

The trio was smiling as they played in the water for a few hours. The pro would join them now and then for when Eri wanted to go underwater or when she wanted to swim around a little. During a snack break, he couldn’t help but notice how she whispered something to Aizawa after drinking from a juice box. She was motioning towards him on the occasion despite how he’d moved multiple times. Izuku had gotten a few glances from bystanders and some children, which didn’t surprise him since he didn’t look the most masc right now.

He rubbed his eyes before he stretched and slipped a cracker into his mouth, they were about to leave anyway. “Midoriya!” The green-haired boy turned in the direction of his last name as he gave a soft smile. “Eri needs to use the restroom, can you keep an eye on her?” The pro asked as he nodded and the child ran over to him as he started to walk in the direction of the restrooms. He smiled as she took his hand, pushing his crackers into his bag.

“I need to change anyways, Sir!” He told him simply as he and the teacher waited. Izuku walked over to the child's gender-neutral bathroom and went ahead and let her inside. “I’ll be outside, Eri-Chan.” She nodded before not going inside.

“Deku..” The child started as she looked up at him. “Why are you in a swimsuit like mine?” She asked simply. Izuku hadn’t even considered her not understanding what this was, she was so sheltered from the poor childhood she had. He looked over at her and gave a gentle smile as she continued. “Cause Otosan and Oniisan don’t have them on..” He crouched down in front of her and simply smiled.

“Use the restroom and then I’ll tell you, okay?” He told her so she wouldn’t stand and listen while needing to do so. She nodded in response as she moved and closed the door behind her. He went ahead and waited patiently for her to finish before he smiled at her and put his hand out. Izuku walked them both to the changing rooms as she followed before she stood in front of him.

“You can’t go in here, it’s the girls’ room!” She told him, he simply nodded as he went ahead and crouched down.

“Well I need to change my clothes and we need to talk. I don’t wanna take you into the boy’s area. Understand?” He told her simply as she nodded a little. “Plus it's easier to explain while I change and without taking up Aizawa’s time.” She nodded as they entered the room. It was empty so Izuku told her to stand guard as he started to change and explain it to her.

“Eri, have you been told about Trans people?” He asked her simply. She started to shake her head with her hurried response, seemingly embarrassed. “No.”

“Well, I’m one of them. You know how you’re a girl and you feel like a girl?” He asked her simply. “Yes.” She said simply, so he continued. “Senpai and Sensei are boys who feel like boys.” He didn’t wanna confuse her so he was trying to take it slow since he didn’t know how she would react or respond or what Overhall may have forced into her head.

“Well, I’m also a boy but it’s more complicated. I was born as a girl.” He told her simply, he was feeling a little heavy with the last sentence but out of everything he’s been through this was easy. “But I always felt like a boy.” She was quiet for a moment as he slipped a hoodie on before stepping out to her. He crouched down and smiled at her.

“So I physically, my body, looks like Uraraka or Tsu, but I’m mentally and trying to physically become a boy.” He told her as he gently let her hair down. She looked up at him and seemed to be trying to think. After a minute or so of silence, she looked up at him and spoke.

“So.. your body is like mine but you wanna be like dad?” She asked as he gave a little nod. “More or less.”

“Is it a curse?” She asked simply as she reached up to be held. He scooped her up and smiled as he gently shifted her in his grip.

“Well, sometimes it seems like one, but I’m surrounded by people who help me when that happens. It’s called gender dysphoria.” He said simply as he hugged her a little. “My body isn’t how I would like it to be, I don’t have boy parts but I wish I did.” He smiled with a little sigh as he covered his eyes from the sun when they left the changing rooms.

“Gender dys-phor-ia?” She sounded the last word out as she nodded a little. Eri put her arms around his neck and moved to signal she wanted a piggyback ride. Izuku listened and put her on his back as she continued to hold. “Is it like how I feel about my scars?”

“They’re very similar but yours is for a different reason and something you couldn’t control.” He told her as she huffed at that and squeezed him tighter.

“Don’t say that! You can’t help that you’re phys-ic-ally a girl, you’re a boy to me and that's all that matters.” She said with a bit of a pout. He chuckled a little at that and smiled and he put a hand in her hair. “Alright, Eri.” He said sweetly as he walked carefully so as not to throw her around very much.

“Deku, how did you know that you didn’t wanna be a girl?” She asked after a moment. He gently pushed his head into her chin as she kicked her legs.

“Well, at first I just wanted to wear more boy clothes, but not in the way you see Jiro or Mina wear them. After that I started to cut my hair, it used to be as long as yours, Eri-chan.” He told her with a smile. She looked at the green curls and grasped at them. “Wow!” She said with a giggle before he continued.

“I started to be more understanding of it when I hit puberty, I didn’t like getting a chest like the girls in my class and I was distraught when I got my first period.” She nodded a little, she didn’t need to have that stuff explained since her father had told her about some stuff so she wouldn’t be scared if it happened in the future. “I ended up doing a lot of research and I found the term, Transgender. I read about it and kinda immediately clicked with it, it fits how I felt and it made me feel better since their were others that knew what this was like.”

She nodded before looking up at the sight of her father. “Otosan!” She said happily as she put her hands in the air. He smiled as she leaned back, forcing him to hold her by her legs, as she delved into a fit of giggles. Izuku played with the young girl, swinging her around a little but still keeping a firm yet painless grip on her. He gave a happy grin of his own as he grew closer to her father and his Sensei, glad to be around the trusted figure.

“Eri, the problem child is not a jungle gym.” He said fondly, unable to keep the smile off his face despite the obvious scolding. She looked up at her father as Izuku turned to make it easier for her to do so. She chuckled before looking up at him, reaching for the man as he took a hold of her.

He rolled his shoulders a little at the lost weight as he smiled and looked over at her, reaching over and ruffing near her bangs. She giggled at that before holding onto her father desperately as Mirio came over and smiled, tickling her sides as she got increasingly louder. The group stayed around a little longer, the lot of them dispersing after a total of three hours together. Izuku was a little worried that he’d get scolded himself for telling her about it but most of it was his personal information so it was his to share. He gave a little sigh as he started to head back to his place before he felt arms around his waist. He gave a little squeak, hating it when his voice went high-pitched.

“I love you Deku! You’re the best Oniisan I could ever ask for!” She said happily and confidently. Midoriya couldn’t help but tear up and smile at that, pulling her into a better hug as he rested his head on her shoulder.

“Thank you, Imouto. Thank you.” He said quietly before standing up, after all, she needed to go back to her father and, considering his mother would be worried if her son didn’t return home soon, he needed to go back as well. Inko will be happy to know her son’s little sister doesn't make him feel any less like a boy, she makes him feel more like a big brother than anyone else.

[danganronpasurvivoraskblog]

Penumbra Protégé: Part 1

[Back on the surface]

Branch 2 soldier: AGH!

...!?

*Shuichi is caught off guard, as one of his men suddenly yelps in pain, as the pickaxe he is holding splinters his hand through his gloves.

What’s wrong?

Branch 2 Soldier: Ah, n-nothing sir...It’s fine.

...Alright...If you say so...Don’t push yourself, else you end up like them...

*Shuichi indicates to a pair of guards, who have already passed out from the stress and exhaustion.

Branch 2 Soldier: Y-Yes sir...

Branch 2 Soldier: Are you sure you’re alright? I can get you some plasters if it helps. Maybe some new gloves too?

Branch 2 Soldier: I’m fine. Let’s keep going. I’m sure we’re close.

...Honestly, I don’t know if this is working...

Soldiers: Huh?

We should probably try something else.

Soldiers: ...Yes sir...

???: I have something you can try!

...!?

*The soldiers and Shuichi all suddenly turn around after they hear the familiar voice call out to them. In front of the opening stands a lone figure.

...

Kuripa...!

Listen up. I’m gonna say this once, and I MEAN...once.

Get back to your tents and sleeping quarters right now, or else I’ll DRAG you back by myself.

Soldiers: ...

...

*The soldiers hesitate, look at each other in dismay, then put down their pickaxes and equipment and start to leave.

H-Hey! Wait! You can’t just-!

...!

*Kuripa glares at the soldiers as they pass, prompting them to shuffle a little faster. They disappear into the trees, leaving Shuichi and Kuripa by themselves.

Phew...Good men...At least unlike some people, they listen to reason.

I don’t think you have the right to boss around MY men.

This is for their own damn good, kid. You won’t have any men left if you keep forcing them to work to the bone like this.

I’m not FORCING them to do ANYTHING! I told them explicitly they could bow out at any given time, but they chose to stick with me until YOU showed up and threatened them!

Then I guess it’s a good thing your men fear me more than they respect you, huh?

Grgh!

You don’t have a single clue what it’s like to be a leader like this. Branch 2 are famous for their loyalty. They’ll do whatever’s asked from their superiors, and fight tooth and nail to get the job done. I find that nothing but admirable, and I’m proud of them.

Clearly you realize that fact well enough...

Which is why you decided to take advantage of them, right?

Ah-! N-No, I-

Don’t try to play the innocent one with me.

You were well aware of what you were signing your boys up to, and you KNEW they wouldn’t back down. You were fully aware of the consequences it could have on their health, yet you decided to ignore that part because it was inconvenient.

You’re criticizing me now!? YOU’RE the one who told me that you believed I would make a great Branch Chief! When I was doubting myself, you buttered me up to make me feel better! 

WELL, CLEARLY I WAS WRONG!

!!!??

At the time, when I looked at you, I saw a young man who had the potential to be the Future Foundation’s pinnacle of greatness! Someone who with enough time, could even succeed that of the legends at the top of the chain now.

But now that I see you like this, and see what it is you’ve been doing to your own guys who trust you...I see now that I was wrong...You’re not special...

You’re just a sad...weak...pathetic...little BOY!

...!!!

And I think it’s time that Baby Boy goes to bed, so-

*SMACK!*

!!?

...

Well you know what!? That makes TWO of us!

*Kuripa slowly recoils as Shuichi punches him round the face.

It’s the same for me you know...You were my SENPAI, and I respected the hell out of you! It felt like if me, Kaede, or any of us were ever in trouble, you would come running.

But after everything we’ve been through, I can’t look at you like that anymore. You’re no hero! You’re just a SERIAL KILLER with a HERO COMPLEX!

...

And you wanna know something about most serial killers? They aren’t the spice of life and intricate minds that people think they are. Most people who kill in mass? They’re losers! And that’s all you are! A loser who can’t let go of his past, so don’t you DARE criticize me for my actions!

...

...I’m done talking to you...I’ve got someone I need to save. If you really cared about Kaede, you wouldn’t dare try and stop me like this.

Would it make you feel better if all of this really was my fault?

Huh?

If we’re using your twisted train of logic here, let it be known the only reason why she eventually decided to get me to train her, was because she was abandoned and tortured by Zetsubou, and YOU weren’t there to protect you.

My relationship with Kaede...Isn’t it YOUR fault?

Don’t you DARE pin this crap on me!

I���m not! Just doing what you’re doing. Grasping at straws so I can blame literally anyone other than myself!

...

*Kuripa looks up into the sky.

Criticize me all you want, kid. I know I’m fucked up, and if I could do anything to take it all back, I would, but the whims of fate don’t allow creatures like me to live an easy life...I’ve been like this ever since I was a child...

What are you talking about now?

*sigh* Forget it, you wouldn’t understand. Just know that when you’ve seen the kinds of shit that people like us see over the course of our life, it really changes a man...

Don’t lump me in with you! What I’ve been through and what you’ve been through are totally different!

This isn’t a game of “who’s trauma is the worst” kid-

STOP! CALLING ME! KID! I’m NOT your kid!

...Maybe not...But...You always loved to chase after the truth, right? Well, here’s a truth that might stick with you...

You and I aren’t too different actually. Not just because we both care about Akamatsu, but...we’re wounded in ways that won’t heal until we’re dead...

...

*Shuichi looks down at his gloves palm. His glove is slightly torn from the friction of the pickaxes he was using.

You can pick on me all you want for the decisions I’ve made over my life...and yeah, maybe I AM too hung up on my sister’s untimely death...

*Kuripa takes a deep breath in, then snaps violently towards Shuichi.

But even so...it’s like I told you...SOMEONE has to put these pigs to the slaughter. I will not abide them moving on with their lives and thriving, when all they’ll do is hurt more innocent people like us...

So you couldn’t forgive the people who had gotten away with the slights they had made against you, even going as far as sacrificing your own life and happiness if it means that these sorts of people atone somehow?

Yes...The day my sister died...that was when I started living life with a REAL purpose...

I know FULL WELL it’s not going to bring her back...

But I can’t stand around and take it when I see society’s scum like Gyalusetsu thrive, while the GOOD people DIE and are FORGOTTEN!

The world has NO RIGHT! NO RIGHT AT ALL! To FORGET ABOUT KOTOKO KURAFTO!

And you would continue down this path, even though you KNOW you’re dragging US down with you!?

Me, Kaede, Makoto, Mukuro! EVERYONE you love becomes guilty by association, and are dragged into YOUR conflicts!

So while we’re on the topic of ignoring facts that we find “inconvenient,” how about we remember that YOU still have things to PROTECT! But you wayside it because you can’t let a single death go!

HOW COULD I!? When I’ve killed SO many people already!?

I KNOW that I’ll never be forgiven...And that there’s a special place in hell for me, but you don’t understand! There is no such thing as Time Travel, so even if I wanted to, I can’t turn around and walk all the way back down this bloodstained path I’m on, so all I can do is JUSTIFY it!

Then why do people like us have to go down with you? Don’t dodge my question this time...

...

It’s not like I can help myself...I try not to care, but I get attached without trying. The thing about Akamatsu...and what drew me to her...Is that she automatically sees the good in people...regardless of their background.

Even when she found out that I had a body count, she still had faith in me...She didn’t approve, but she LISTENED. She UNDERSTOOD. She’s someone who I’ve trusted with my deepest darkest secrets, that even a spry young detective like yourself could never get out of me.

So I want you to know, this kind of thing is never going to stop until Organization Zetsubou bleeds; and no matter what you say, I will continue to walk this path, as I have no other choice.

You’re wrong. There is ALWAYS a choice...But you are choosing to make the wrong decisions.

And you’re not? Like you said, people get dragged into my conflicts, but at least I TRY to keep them out!

But you drag innocent soldiers into your own personal grievances. You may be a Branch Chief, but you’re not the only member of the Future Foundation, so word of advice...?

Get off your fucking high horse, BOY...!

...!

Your words mean nothing to me, you Grim Reaper.

Hm?

People do still care about you, even knowing what it is you’ve done. But NO ONE asks you do the things you do and take the lives of people you consider to be “swine.” Maybe they don’t want “revenge” or “justice” but you force that ideal onto people anyway!

From your own twisted view, you think you’re doing people a service by removing these people, because you think that after death, they can’t hurt anyone anymore.

Well, let me tell you this...Junko Enoshima in my home world died many many years ago, at the very beginning of Danganronpa...53 seasons later, and she CONTINUES to have an influence on my world, and morph it into a twisted mess of a society.

So in my eyes? That excuse is a hunk of horsecrap. And all you’re achieving with your murders is dragging innocent people like Kaede into them!

That’s NOT what I want-!

I don’t CARE if it’s not what you want! Whether you accept it or not, it’s happening, and you don’t get to just brush it off like that!

You’re a smart guy Kuripa. You know sooner or later, karma is going to collect the heavy debt you owe it. And the people YOU care about, and those who care about YOU, will face retribution WITH you!

But you don’t give a SHIT about that! Even if people don’t die like Mukuro Ikusaba did, you’d still be leaving a massive mess for everyone else to clean up!

This isn’t a matter of revenge, or justice, or anything of the sort! All you care about, and all you have EVER cared about, is caking your sword with as much bastard blood as you can, and YOU COULDN’T CARE LESS ABOUT THE CONSEQUENCES!

YOU’RE a psychotic murderer, plain and simple! So WHY DID IKUSABA HAVE TO BE THE ONE THAT PAID THE PRICE!?

!!!??

Yeah...It doesn’t feel good bringing that up, but you’ve left me with no choice...

Be honest with me...Would you even be able to look her in the eye if you ever met with her in the afterlife?

...I already told you...There’s a special place in the underworld for me, and it’s far away from her...

But to answer your question...I doubt it...The guilt of knowing she sacrificed herself to protect me is something I’ll carry forever, just like I carry the guilt of not being able to save Kotoko.

This again? *sigh* This is pointless.

*Shuichi starts to march away.

Thanks for wasting my time. I’m gonna go find my men and bring them back here. They might fear you, but I don’t...

So don’t get in my way this time, hypocrite. You’re too late to save anyone who you lost, but I can still save Kaede, so back off.

...

...

*grab*

Huh?

*KERRR-WHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMM!!*

BUHAAAAAHAAGH!

*CRASH!* *SMASH!* *SLAM!* *CRASH!*

GAGH! UGH! DAAHAGH! BAGH! RUGH! UHUUAGH!

*Out of nowhere, Kuripa grabs Shuichi by the shoulder, yanks him back, and punches him dead in the face! Shuichi goes flying, and crashes through several trees, until he collapses on the ground and rolls helplessly on the floor!

Ugh...! *COUGH!* *SPLUTTER!* *SPLUTTER!* Grgh?

...

*Kuripa approaches Shuichi menacingly, the tip of his blade leaving a mark in the ground.

I really thought we could just talk it out as two helpless souls, kid. But you can’t just spout BS like that and demand that I stop what I’m doing...

So...let’s settle this the only surefire way I know how...!

*He points his blade at Shuichi. The detective scrambles to his feet, grabbing a pistol in a holder on his waist.

So what!? You’re just gonna murder me too!? Tie up any loose ends that interfere with your so-called “justice!?”

It’s not murder! It’s well deserved PUNISHMENT! And if you can’t tell the difference...

YOU CAN GO TO HEEEEEEEELLLL!!!

RRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAGGHH!!!

///SHUICHI SAIHARA VS KURIPA KURAFTO!!!///

[regalfairytaleacademy]

Hey don't mind me

Just wanna know what your dragonroyal ocs think of Mizuki

To me. I think she looks like a sorrow woman I had heard from the elderlies about the woman crying every night on the riverbank. Sounds creepy, right? But I still think she is a pretty nice girl.

Moreover, I didn't know she has a twin sibling, just like me to Isabella.

Isabella Draconahearts

Lady Mizuki looks fine to me, though her face has lots of thread stitches make me scared a little. I always have to respect her everywhere if I saw her because she is Malleus' woman.

I hope Lord Malleus must protecting Lady Mizuki for responsible. That's what the prince take responsibility to keep his fair lady safe, like how the Princess of Dragon Fire who constantly be protected by her bravery prince.

Mizuki-senpai is pretty but a little scary I seen this beauty for the first time. I wonder did she likes sweets.

I also very curious about her react to my bestie Jenny. Hope Jenny can be accept Mizuki-senpai to be her friends or maybe not, because Jenny is the Guardian to the Demon Lord of Pride and she oftens acts to be a little proud and stubborn to me and others.

I actually wanted to see what kind sewing creations she had made, since she like to sew.

Her looks make me almost scared at the first sight. I once thought she is a motherly person, turns out to be the pride woman.

Though I'm the Guardian to the Demon Lord of Pride, it doesn't mean I'll ask her for invite me to the Pride Ring of Hell.

Surprisly, I have no idea she holding a sewing kit with her everyday, and she likes to listen jazz a little.

[rolloz]

I hope to make Jun as good as the AIs you've made, Rollo-senpai! –Can I call you that?– You were my primary inspiration to make him actually, and because I wanna make Ohii-san proud !!

Also, what would you count as a session? By that I mean, how many messages do you usually go per one yknow?

You may call me whatever you like!! 💕 I'm so happy I could inspire you!!!!

A "session" is kinda subjective? Like a conversation that has an eventual end or an rp with an eventual conclusion. Just whatever feels natural! I've had sessions that were like. 20 interactions but I think I have a couple ongoing that are 1000+ (lmfao) so really it's really up to what feels like a full conversation/story without it being forced to be too long or too short!

[edenaeris]

[food fantasy] dessert crisis / chapter 5

🦋 Writer: Mitsuki

🦋 Featuring: Ritsu, Tsukasa

[ Ois~su♪ ]

Season: Spring

Location: Archery Grounds

Tsukasa: Hold my breath, focus…

Still a little askew. It appears that I have to practice more.

Let me try again. After all, as the saying goes, “practice makes perfect, and diligence makes up for deficiency.” [1]

Woah! Ritsu-senpai, don’t just appear out of nowhere, that’s dangerous!

Ritsu: Su~chan, so you were here in the Archery Club~

Tsukasa: Yes. Since there’s still some time until we have to meet for Knights’ job today, I decided to practice by myself here.

Ritsu: Oh? Is archery that fun? I want to give it a try too~

Please teach me, Su~chan ♪ [2]

Tsukasa: You put too much faith in me, Ritsu-senpai. I still have a lot of room for improvement, but I suppose I can teach you some basics.

The steps in archery can be basically divided into eight sections: disposition of the feet, positioning the body, loading the arrow, raising the bow, drawing the string, aiming, cleansing your thoughts, and finally, letting go.

Ritsu: Eh? Sounds like too much work to me~ Can’t you explain it in an easier way?

Tsukasa: Well, guess you can read it as posture, putting the arrow on the bow, and shooting it.

Please allow me to demonstrate first.

You should start with this posture, then do it like this as you load the arrow, then you raise the bow, draw the string, and focus solely on the target. Keep your body and breathing steady, calm down your mind, then finally release the arrow, maintaining this stance for a few seconds.

That’s basically it.

In fact, archery places great emphasis on self-discipline, but for beginners, it’s better to start with the ‘form’ first.

Ritsu: Seems like you know a lot, Su~chan. Though it sounds hard, I still wanna give it a try.

Tsukasa: Alright, there you go.

Ritsu: Okie, I remember that Su~chan was standing like that, then you put the arrow, raise the bow like this…

Tsukasa: Just a second, I’ll adjust your posture for you, Ritsu-senpai.

This foot should be slightly further back, but the posture of your upper body looks really good.

Ritsu: You have a proud look on your face, Su~chan. Does teaching your seniors make you feel accomplished?

Tsukasa: Ah, no, no, no. It’s just that letting others experience what I like makes me very happy.

Although… I guess I can’t deny what you said.

Anyways, you can raise the bow and draw the string now, Ritsu-senpai. But please, don’t let go yet, I must take a look at your posture when shooting.

Ritsu: Alright, I’m drawing it now~

Tsukasa: Good, it should be like this. Next, please focus, aim at the bullseye, and shoot.

Ritsu: Aim, and… Shoot!

Tsukasa: Ah, what a pity. That was close, though, I’m sure it’ll be even better the next time you do it.

Ritsu: It’s fine, forget it, I’ll try again when I have the chance. I’m feeling so sleepy, I couldn’t help but get distracted when I was shooting just now.

I better get down to business already.

Ritsu: Actually, this is the reason. I made some new sweets, but guess I went a little overboard, so I brought these for you, Su~chan. I also wanna hear your thoughts about them.

After all, you’ve tried my sweets before.

Tsukasa: B… But…

Ritsu: Eh? Your senpai came looking specifically for you, and you’re refusing to help me?

Tsukasa: No, no, that’s not it…

Ritsu: Ha, I knew it. How could our diligent youngest refuse to help, after all?

C’mon Su~chan, open wide~

Tsukasa: (Ugh, I ate too many sweets made by Ritsu-senpai before. To be fully honest, I don’t feel like I can bear them anymore.)

(Maybe if I take just a bite, though, I can actually survive this time.)

Very well. I’ll help myself, then.

Oh, Ritsu-senpai, your sweets-making skills seem to have improved comparing it to the ones I’ve tried before.

The taste, the texture, and the temperature are all just on point.

Ritsu: Oh, really? That’s great to hear.

Yawn~ I’m super sleepy now, though, so I’m leaving.

Seeing that you like these sweets so much, I’ll give you all of these~

Tsukasa: B-but…

Ritsu: I still have some sweets left, but I’m really sleepy right now. Lemme think, what could be a good place for a nap?

Ah, I could go find Mikarin. The Handicrafts Club room should be nice and quiet ♪

[ ☆ ]

ㅤ

Notes:

Here Tsukasa puts two idioms together: [熟能生巧](shú néng shēng qiǎo), “practice makes perfect”, which is the same as in English; and [勤能補拙](qín néng bǔ zhuó), which is a Chinese proverb that means that one can make up for their lack of natural talent by being diligent.

Is this a reference to Ritsu’s sub story “Please teach me, Ritsu-senpai!”? :wataruthinks:

ㅤ

🦋 Translation: Eden

🦋 Proofreading: Mia (ENG)

ㅤ

← prev ✦ all

[cryingjuiceboxx]

My creation that will never be complete. The start to my documentation of a tmnt series I've had in only my head and notes app.

My theme is an Absurdist fiction, mystery, spy fiction. I'm still not sure if I wanna lean mor paranormal or sci-fi but I don't want both of the elements. I'm also leaning more to the intention of that of a children's book. The time frame is 2008-2015 (probably 2009)

Starting with my laundry list of character details:

Leonardo Hamato

oldest

Leader

Gundam and lego enjoyer. Watching people not doing

Big fan of 90s cartoons (he-man, Thundercats, transformers, etc), anime, and music

Plays games most with Mikey. They do online dnd groups. Leo tends to DM

He is tactically smart: he keeps a diary ( or a blog?)

Prone to rambling and being over polite

Looks up to April, mostly cause she older and he feels she's got everything figured out. Called her senpai for a bit till she told him to knock it off

Tried to get his brothers to call him senpai for a bit

Prideful and overprotective of brothers, especially raph.

An inauthentic person

Teachers pet

Tends to get lost in his own world

Least physically Affectionate

Botany and plant enjoyer

Raphael Hamato

Youngest

Has a passive anger style. Tends to go mute when experiencing heightened forms ofstressed, angry, overwhelmed, sadness, confusion, etc.

The hardest working brother to worrying degree. But not a people pleaser

Talks to himself alot.

Worried about blowing up at people

Prone to stuttering, voice cracks

Swims alot, likes to he in water

Most artistic/into art. Specifically: painting, portrait painting, and photography

Grumpy boy

Sharp teeth

Reality TV junkie

Often goes out to the surface with Mikey early mornings

Has the most common sense of the turtles

Resting mean face, but pretty soft spoken

Takes things very seriously. Not literally.

A try hard. Doesn't really know why or what he's trying to prove. Just wants to be and feel proud if himself the way he thinks his brothers are very confident in themselves

Feels very babied by Leo. More embraced and frustrated than mad.

When it comes to physical stuff, if it shouldn't be done, he'll do it (like making an impossible jump or trying to bust down a wall with your body)

Michelangelo Hamato

2nd Oldest

Will disappear for long stretches of time because he's following an animal

Has hearing aids

Great at scavenging. Tech for donnie, art for raph, etc

Has the most stamina and energy

Most naturally gifted at ninjtsu

Quickest at picking up skills, but worst at remebering and memorizing what he learned without aids

Covered in handmade bracelets. Beaded, friendship, silly bands, ect

Takes advantage that Leo like to take the bulk of responsibility so he can chill

Goofy, slacks off from responsibility a lot

Most materialistic

Donetello Hamato

3rd Born

Most passive and rarely angry (that doesn't mean never)

Also enjoy Gundam with Leo

Witty (punny)

The most gentle in nature of the brothers

Takes takes very litterally more often than not

Jokenly calla Leo 'cheif'

Has the best memory. But sometimes, the context and importance taks time to really sink in

Can, has, and will copy people's handwriting

Can pick locks. Learned all his skills from YouTube and library book simply because he wanted to see if he could.

Loudest talker and has the Loudest laugh

Has braces

Least materialistic

I had this note that he's a Whitney Houston fan???

Equipped with knee and elbow pads. Stickered.

Splinter/ Yoshi Hamato

Still deciding if he's pet rat or rat turned human.

But has a bug association with farming and farm life.

He and donnie built a greenhouse underground. He plants and farms. Help bring income into the house

Anxious parenting style

Very Affectionate despite his kids varying

Splinter tries to have check in's with the boys. The frequency varies in their needs. They all hate it but it does feel necessary (?)

Tidbits about both of group

Raph and Mikey both do vigilantly work, but they did it on opposite sides of town. They didn't realize if for a long time until one saw the other leaving a crime scene chasing after a theif

Mikey and raph talk the most in sign.

Leo is the best at reading lips

None of the turtles are over 5'5"

Splinter is maybe 5'7" - 5'10"

Mikey and leo tend to indulge in overcompensating for wanting to connect to their roots (?) (I haven't compelty figures out what that means, if I'll even keep it)

Leo is angry (and maybe holds a grudge) that Mikey and raph have been going up to the surface for years. Less because it dangerous and more becuase he didn't and felt that he couldn't and that they could get away with it.

Raph and donnie were hot wheels and beyblade kids

Mikey gets a cat later.

Raph has a Guinne pig or a bird named Monty

Raph and Mikey are tied in physical affection. They were always at Splinters side with a strong grip on his robe

Leo feels very awkward and uncomfortable with physical affection but will take part in it to please others

Whenever I think of Splinter I think of this "I don't have to do anything. I choose to. I want to" I don't know who I stole that from

It takes Leo forever to stop calling Splinter sensei outside of teaching. Splinter feels really dishearted about this but doesn't comment. Though Leo is a teachers pet, he an Splinter are rhe most distanced.

I feel raph and Splinter are the closest (subject to change. I also feel mikey)

Donnie tends to play basketball early in the morning on the surface

I have a note about Leo and is vanity but I might change that.

Leo and Splinter bond the most where their farming

[aeoki]

SS Finals - Melee: Chapter 11

Location: ES Dome Idol Practice Room Characters: Tsukasa, Subaru, Makoto, Ritsu, Mao, Arashi, Izumi, Rei & Leo

Leo: Anyway, I know it must be fun to make a fuss like the good ol’ times, but now isn’t the time for both units to be doing that, right?

There’s something we gotta do, isn’t there? I dunno but I’ll do my best, I guess.

Tsukasa: *Sigh…* Y–You really seem down, Leo-san. Are you okay?

I apologise for asking you to practise with us despite not realising you’re not feeling up for it.

Leo: Don’t apologise. Stand proud, “King”.

I wanna remove that disappointing memory from the Qualifying Rounds, so I’m desperately trying to do my best right now. I wanna get as strong as I can to ease my worries.

It’s way more meaningful than staying holed up in my room and sulking in bed, so if that’s what you wish, then go ahead with it. We’ll follow whatever decision you make.

That’s how the current “Knights” will live.

All I did was destroy “Knights” and break it into pieces, but you guys restored “Knights” to its former glory at the very last moments.

That’s what makes “Knights” so strong right now, right? Probably. I dunno.

Tsukasa: Why do you sound like that? Are you really okay? It’s been a while since I last saw you in such low spirits…

Makoto: It’s probably because Izumi-san said some pretty hurtful things again, right?

Izumi: What do you mean by “again”? I’ve never hurt you before, Yuu-kun!

Mao: I’m scared to see what this guy’s brain is like on the inside, but sometimes I’m jealous.

Subaru: ? Whaddya mean?

Mao: You’re someone from that side too, huh, Subaru.

Subaru: ? ? ?

Leo: Sena’s got nothing to do with it~... I’m just depressed because the song I recently made got completely rejected.

They flatter me and say I’m a genius composer or whatnot, so I guess I got carried away. I can’t believe how depressed I got myself.

Izumi: Your new song got rejected? What do you mean? By who? Tenshouin!?

Leo: Don’t blame everything on Tenshi. Anyway~ I meant to say that I made a new song just for the “SS” Finals today.

I figured it would help you guys…

But when I went to show it to the “General Leader”, he didn’t even listen to it and got angry, saying, “Don’t do anything unnecessary”.

It was something unnecessary, huh~ Sorry~... Actually, I kinda lost all my energy because I felt so bad.

Izumi: He didn’t even listen to it? Why not? Everyone at Yumenosaki knows your songs are the strongest “weapon” out there.

Ritsu: The “General Leader” is “Eden”, right? They’re part of CosPro so it’s only natural they wouldn’t know about the common knowledge at Yumenosaki.

Arashi: But Tomoe-senpai and the other guy were originally Yumenosaki students, weren’t they?

Leo: Uuu~... I bet it’s just because my song wasn’t any good~... I thought I was a genius but I guess that wasn’t true~...

Izumi: Oh, geez, stop being so wishy-washy! You’re really getting on my nerves!

Rei: Hmm. How intriguing.

What an odd response. In my opinion, that’s where the key to unravelling the mystery behind this year’s “SS” lies.

Izumi: What the–!?

Subaru: Ahaha. Long time no see~ You’re as elusive as always, Sakuma-senpai ♪

Ritsu: Hello? Security? There’s an intruder inside our practice room right now.

Rei: Spare me~... It’s rare for us to be on the same team. Let’s get along now, Ritsu ♪

Ritsu: Maa-kun, I’m scared~... A stranger is talking to me like they know me~...

Mao: There, there.

…Umm, what business did you have with us, Sakuma-senpai?

Rei: I see you’ve gotten quite used to us now, Isara-kun.

Kukuku. I saw a rather nostalgic scene and came to visit.

I’m glad to see you’re having a pleasant chat together, “Trickstar” and “Knights” ♪

Subaru: Ahaha. I guess it is pretty nostalgic now that you mention it. You also came to check in on us during our battle with “Knights” for the first “DDD”, right?

Rei: Indeed. Nostalgic it is but it wasn’t that long ago, either. I’m sure you’re all quite different compared to back then.

But comparing the past with the present and thinking about the things you’ve gained or lost is most definitely not meaningless.

You can also gain confidence by feeling how far you’ve come.

Indulging yourself in reminiscence before a big performance is also one form of entertainment.

Izumi: So what are you doing here? Just to chat, Sakuma? Looks like someone’s got time on their hands – I’ve always hated that part about you! Acting like you’re some bigshot!

Rei: I get that a lot but I didn’t expect to hear that from you, Sena-kun.

Putting that aside, there’s something on my mind. I’m checking up on everyone in the “White Team” while also conducting my investigation.

It’s all done in order to prevent a great disaster that’s much larger than the frustration I felt during the Qualifying Rounds. Although, the one heralding that news should be an angel and not a demon.

Leo: Whaddya talking about~? I can never understand a word you’re saying!

Rei: The ordinary language I’m using is nowhere near as complete as the music you create, Tsukinaga-kun.

In any case, I’m not here to interrupt your practice, so I shall announce my important matter and leave.

An “oracle” will most likely be delivered to the “White Team” during the Finals.

Leo: An “oracle”...?

Rei: I have already received one. It looks like this – a letter.

If the author is the “General Leader” – Nagisa Ran from “Eden” – then you’d best heed his advice.

But if it’s from Hiyori Tomoe from “Eve”, the other wing of “Eden”...

Then, you must not believe or follow his words.

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