#i thought of himawari having a voice and song and i thought that if they have a song

[naradivision]

Hypmic OC Halloween Party 2023 🎃 ~Part II

Disclaimer: Please note that these are not the actual titles to the songs, I just made them up of course. All these songs obviously belong to their respective artists.

And the OCs mentioned belong to their respective creators as well!

*see more notes from the part 1*

Meet the Halloween Shuffle Teams!

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Team R-rated B-Boy

Ren “Vox” Nakashima

Rintaro “Ignis” Himuro

Raiden “Tesla” Otoha

Ryuko “Mista Z.B.” Umemoto

#7 Parade of Horror ☠️

Real title: Bad Monster Original by UraShimaSakataSen Fun fact: This Shima is that same SHIMA who voiced Zen Gaho from paralive...

Team Heroic Youngsta

Joey “Joker” Kurusu

Saji “Street Dog” Buranka

Ryūnosuke “Fist N Fury” Sekiguchi

Haruto “Pheonix” Hirabayashi

#8 Justice In Action! 🚨

Real title: PANDA HERO Covered by mafumafu x nqrse x luz x soraru | Original by HACHI ft. GUMI Fun fact: HACHI the Vocaloid-P is later known as Kenshi Yonezu

Team SolaLune Fairies

Lola “Aphrodite” Takahashi

Evelyn “SPIRIT” Rose

Moriko “Carnopus” Himawari

Miku “Hex 13” Shirazuki

#9 Who’s the Fairest? 👑

Real title: ECLIPSE Original by Raon x DAZBEE Yeah, sorry again for not making the number of voice casts matched... They just look gorgeous together XD

Team Pop★Teen Sensation

Kanade “Spooky” Alarie

Criss “Paradox” Hiromi

Kirara “Cupid” Suzuki

Ririko “2cute!” Akihara

Makina “Screen Shot” Setsukura

#10 Supa☆Supa☆Halloween

Real title: Happy Halloween Covered by MORE MORE JUMP! ft. Kagamine Rin | Original by Junky ft. Kagamine Rin

[At the moment after the girls have already returned to the backstage, suddenly, the thick and hazy mist from nowhere then emerged into the stage from all directions, fogging over the entire scene as if it was curtain in the theater]

Greetings, ladies and gentlemen,

Welcome to the wonderful night of October the 31st,

...At long last, we’re going to reach the finale.

[Starting off with the sound of bells resonating in distants, the prelude music began playing before the hazy mist became dissolved —revealing the obscure figures of people standing there in the midst of stage]

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Team Curtain Call

Queen card

Kunio “Arsene” Kurome

Iwao “TRIXT4R” Masuda

Sanyu “MC Rogue” Inouye

Naoki “Stage Queen” Hamasaki

Mitsuru “Odette” Tenjo

Saigo “Tsukumogami” Fuyugami

Nishio “24/7” Tokishou

#11 To the Final Act 🪄

Real title: Finale Original by XYZ 2019 (luz, senra, mafumafu, soraru, nqrse, meychan, araki, un:c)

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Wait— Wait,

Even if this night is going to end soon, how should we forget something really really important…?

Yeah, we haven’t even got our treats yet!

If you want them, then why don’t we go get some?

C’mon, stand up & sing along~~

Team Bakemono:)

Asahi “SWEET-T” Tomoharu

Kohaku “KANDATA-KUN” Meguno

Taria “Misfit” Chinen

Honoka “Maniakin” Ajisai

Ayaka “Marionette” Kagawa

After Story: Are Ghosts Real?

Real title: 異世界混合大舞踏会 (I Wanna Be Your Ghost) Covered by StarLightPolaris (You Kisaragi, Relu, Coe, Kuni, Kottaro)  | Original by Gen Hoshino Unfortunately, you can only find subtitles in the original video

In this night where ghosts will emerge,

But they’re not all that bad

Ghost are real, you know? 

But they’re not as scary as the living!

They’re always watching from the sidelines, so don’t you forget,

Farewell mortals, and take care :P

🎃 Live Reports & Behind the scenes Pt.2

According to the interview from some audiences after the reveal of 6th’s and 7th’s cast, they thought it’s funny that team Bad Boy felt oddly cool to them, while on the other hand, team Hero were also cool but with even more chaotic vibes than the previous one —Everyone did wonder in unison that what went through the organizer’s head when they decided to put them together. Well, Raiden and Saji were the only exceptions since both of them were naturally pretty dedicated to their team titles.

Raiden got a bit carried away as he started laughing like some maniac by the end of his show. And in consequence of that, his temporary teammates were just… letting him be before all left the scene like nothing happened.

Since the beginning of the 9th show, the ladies of team “SolaLune Fairies” were seen solemnly walking out of the backstage with a dark long veil covering most part of their face and their outfits. Each of them were also noted to hold a bouquet with different flowers. Lola were red tulips, Evelyn were blue roses, Moriko were sunflowers, and Miku were moon orchids. But once the first beat of the song dropped out, they suddenly changed their moods and threw their veils away ...showing off their party dresses which were delicately designed just for each of them (ultimate kudos were given to those from the costume team). Thus, the true catwalk showdown began! 

After all the teasing to throw their bouquets to the audience like in the wedding, it was still unknown who those ladies decide to give their bouquets to at the end. Maybe it was their lover/ bestie or etc. Who knows anyway? But as the show title hinted, they might probably give it to their fairest…

Before the 10th show starts, the camera caught Kanade having a high-five with Lola in the same fashion as those two boys from the first half. 

Despite not being much active around these days, Hana Izanami (@snowmantita) was spotted coming here in secret to cheer for her friends.

The 11th show was obviously one of the best highlights of this event, given 6 of them were actually the famed performers to begin with! In addition, Queen card was the one who planned most details of the performance herself. Besides, some of them were really going all-out to the point where they attempted to compete with each other even. No wonder this show received very loud applause as a result, just like their team’s name implied.

There was one funny moment getting leaked out from the backstage. It was the photo of two gentlemen who literally had no idea why they were put in the same line with other talented showmen in the 11th show. Saigo seemed to be deep in thought about how much the staff have spent on props and special effects, while Nishio… He was caught flirting with other participants —Well, let’s hope that he wasn’t flirting with the wrong person there.

Despite the chill and anti-climax vibe that was very contrast to the intense impression from the previous show, the final show performed by team Bakemono was unexpectedly the children’s most favorite! Why was that? The secret of success not only lied in the lyrics of the song, but also its cute and catchy choreography. Moreover, they had also brought in the massive number of candies to throw into the crowd.

And due to some interviews with the parents, they told that this show truly deserved to be the closing show as it was in fact spoke the moral of this spooky event… 

Before the show started, it was a record of five of them chatting with each other. And although it was all according to the script, Asahi confessed that they had retaken it so many rounds he actually lost count of.

And just as the name of their team indicated, they were all wearing the yokāi costumes! For example, Asahi was the Oni, Kohaku was attempting to look like Kasa-obake (even if it came out rather funny), Taria was Karasu tengu, Honoka had animal ears so maybe she was bakeneko or kitsune, and Ayaka wore triangle headband with a kimono to represent the yurēi ghost.

From what live reports said, despite being the performers of the show, both Asahi & Kohaku were noted to really enjoy their time the most —These two spiritual(?) twins loved throwing candies like they’re playing with snow, while Honoka and Ayaka might seem a bit stiff due to their not so great experiences with people. However, Taria was the one making them warm up and enjoy the moment just like other children did —Who else would understand the kids best if not someone with a children’s heart?

Live reports by

Snowflake Sentinel News, Yoichi Shujo

Verne Publishing-house, Nellie Yukimura 

◀︎ SEE THE RECORD FROM PT. 1

Amazing OCs mentioned above are from:

@kobedivision @katsushika-division @chiyoda-division2 @suginami-division @kanazawa-division @megurodivision @naha-division @nagasakidivision @saitama-division @okinawa-division @gion-division @minato-division03 @kyoto-division @akihabaradivision @urayasu-division @nakanodivision @akihabara-division03 @kumamoto-division @sapporo-division @fukuokadivision1 @naha-division @nerima-division @naradivision @echizen-division @ota-division @gion-division @sagadivision @tokyo-division (@snowmantita) @hamamatsu-divison

P.S. Apologizing if I missed out some divisions or have made anyone sound OOC —I'm trying lmao.

...Happy Halloween & hoping y’all enjoy it :)

[ecargmura]

Dog Signal Episode 14 Review - Grieving Over A Loved One

Wow, that was quite an emotional episode. I did NOT expect it to get this heavy; it came out of left field and smacked me in the face so that it’d make me cry. You know what? I did shed tears watching this episode. Despite that, it was a really good one.

Niwa and Miyu get their first male client in Mr. Kato who is worried about his son’s Golden Retriever Rocky who hasn’t moved from his deceased son Takehiro’s shrine for over a year. He’s worried about how he didn’t move and is even urinating in unwanted areas because of it. When Niwa and Miyu go check him out, it turns out that his muscles have atrophied a lot, his paws because a reddish-brown hue due to licking and his elbows have calluses from excessive laying. It’s not a good sign for the dog to be in, especially since he’s getting up to the years—the dog is 11 years old. It turns out that the problem lies in his wife, Mrs. Kato who believes Rocky is mourning Takehiro’s death and refuses to let him leave the shrine. Fortunately, the dog is able to recover quickly because he was well-trained and easy to handle.

First off, I feel so bad for the Kato family. They had a son but he died right before he went to college, meaning he was 18 when he died. He was still at the prime of his youth. I’m sure the parents are devastated that their son was taken away from them so early. Takehiro had dreams and aspirations, but misfortunate came to him. It’s so sad to see parents lose their child. I pity Mrs. Kato for not being able to mourn for her son properly. It must be really hard to lose someone you just saw yesterday and realize that they aren’t coming back anymore. Because she couldn’t mourn properly, she projected her grief onto Rocky who was just sitting next to her in order to help alleviate her emotions. Because she believed Rocky was the one who was mourning and not her, she could move on, but she wasn’t truly moving on. I know that what Mrs. Kato was doing was technically abuse, but I can’t really bring myself to hate her because she was and is in a pitiful situation. Fortunately, she still has Rocky and her husband who have moved on from his death.

I also like that this case is a bit of a parallel with Niwa’s past in a way, as Miyu noticed. Niwa lost his dad, dog and seems to be distant from his mother. In Mrs. Kato’s case, she lost her son, but she still has her dog and husband who seems to be in good terms with. Despite that, Niwa has moved on, but the pain of losing his dog is still there. His stern face is because he’s holding back his tears. That’s rather funny, but also sadly cute in a way. I love how Miyu’s trying be understanding towards the case due to Niwa’s past and he’s also learning about cases like this. There is valuable information in this episode: dogs have short and long term memory. Dogs have good memory, but Niwa actually lied to Mrs. Kato in order to give her a wakeup call. An example of good memory is Rocky looking at Mrs. Kato’s behavior and going back to his spot. I love that Miyu ponders about a dog’s memories and hopes that Singe will have him in his memories for a long time. That’s so sweet. I really love it when Miyu’s thoughts are voiced out in the end; it’s like he’s writing a diary of his experience.

I’m always amazed by the voice actor casting for the minor characters. Mr. Kato is voiced by Kentaro Ito, who is known for voicing Renji Abarai from Bleach and Chouji from Naruto. Mrs. Kato is voiced by THE Nana Mizuki. Anime fans might recognize her for numerous roles like Hinata Hyuga from Naruto and Utau Hoshino from Shugo Chara. She’s also a prolific singer. If you’re familiar with the song Discotheque, she’s the singer. It’s crazy how they got three members of the Uzumaki family in this show already; we got Minato Namikaze as Niwa’s dad, Naruto Uzumaki as Ms. Kadota from Episode 8 and now Hinata in this episode. It’d be hilarious if Kushina, Boruto, Himawari and Kawaii’s voice actors make an appearance in later episodes, but I doubt it.

I love that the lesson for this episode is to not impose your own personal feelings onto your pets because they do not comprehend them. People do have a tendency to try and humanize their pets. Niwa’s lecture really hit home. I should be a bit more careful when it comes to understanding my dogs now. I can’t wait to see what next week has in store because this anime is so comforting and beautiful with life lessons revolving around pets. If you have seen this episode, what are your thoughts?

[jordyn-degas]

What if?

characters: Sasuke Uchiha x fem!reader;

additional: Naruto Uzumaki x fem! reader; Sakura Haruno; Orochimaru, Sai, Yamato, Boruto Uzumaki and Himawari Uzumaki have a brief appereance; mention of Kakashi Hatake;

warnings: afab!reader - fem!reader; characters age range vary from children to adults; fluff; angst; emotions all over; mentions of: nudity, subtly implied intercourse, blood and death.

notes: SFW; i'm extremely in my feels today- this song ALWAYS breaks me no matter what - i actually cried throughout writing this, don't ask me why - especially the end - my emotions are all over the place 😊

word count: 4.074 - i'm sorry - my feels got me carried away

taglist: @haikyutiehoe - thank you for being my first ask and requesting to be tagged in this 😭 - hope you like it 🤐

Mood 🎧 LUKAS GRAHAM - 7 years

"It was a big big world, but we thought we were bigger Pushing each other to the limits, we were learning quicker" - "Something about the glory, just always seemed to bore me 'Cause only those I really love will ever really know me"

There was not a single second of his mere, bitter life in which he did not love you.

Not even when you were children and the spark in your eyes lit up when Naruto was making one of his stupid jokes, intoxicating laugh boosting his ego. Or when you two sparred with chopsticks over the bowls of ramen over at Ichiraku's. Sasuke believed to be completely incapable of maintaining a conversation with you for more than a minute. You were pulled into Naruto's boisterous orbit while he stood behind watching and waiting. He could only hope that one day your eyes will lit up for him the way they did for the Nine-Tailed Fox boy. Watching from the rooftops how you would playfully wrap your arm around Shikamaru's, your childhood best friend, placing a quick peck on his cheek that had the boy flustered beyond reality.

That is how he found himself plagued by a simple question: What if?

⋯ ⋯

Not even when the Kusanagi was aimed at your throat, trying to cut the only bond strong enough to pull him back, Sasuke did not stop loving you. It was absolutely abysmal how small droplets of blood trickled down your neck, not a single tear staining your beautiful, smooth skin, vividly remembering those piercing eyes flash with determination.

When he left to find Orochimaru was the day when he also found out that your heart ached for him. Not for Naruto. Not for Shikamaru. Not for other stupid boys he deemed unworthy of your attention. It has always been him. Arms wrapped around him, your head resting into the crook of his neck, pleading. YOU pleaded for HIM to stay.

That is the first time Sasuke believed he had failed you. He was never going to be able to fulfill your wishes, to offer you the life you truly deserved.

The question still stood: What if?

You loved him with such fervor it was astonishing. If he could ever touch your love, the skin would scorch as if trying to get closer to the sun. “Come home.” your sweet, pleading voice tickled his dark heart, the faint broken tonality causing ripples in his soul. “Come back to me.” Those were the words that had his soul snap violently, tiny cracks breaking the hardened surface. You were the only person capable of reaching him so painfully deep. Naruto could not raise his gaze from the ground because he knew, he knew Sasuke will never be able to come home until the dust settles. Sakura finally realizing, right there and then, that he will never be hers because you were his lifeline. Even Sai that had the emotional range of one of Orochimaru’s snakes could feel the agony. Yamato stood behind you, ready to protect your life no matter how much it hurt. “I can’t.” Sasuke replied coldly, harshly, full of hate, playing the well rehearsed act of not caring. “Not until it’s done.” His heart was booming into the ears, waves of pain washing over him as the famous Uchiha dark gaze traced your powerful form. God, you were a gorgeous girl! The way you held yourself, the slightly raised chin in defiance, the ability to look more like an Uchiha than he did. “Take me with you.” your beautiful voice cracked. “I can’t do this without you.” The next thing Sasuke witnessed, in all its glory, was your palm wrapping around the sharp blade of the Kusanagi, instantly rupturing your skin, blood flowing along its sharpness. Shock flashing on everyone’s faces as you stood there, imposing, intimidating, tightening your grip on the blade. “Kill me.” you spoke, oh, so softly it had his soul hum at the sound. “If that is what is keeping you back, I will accept it wholeheartedly. If that helps you to come back home, I will happily oblige.” Sasuke wanted nothing more than to drop the sword and pull your body into his arms, to hold you tight and bind yourselves to a promise. He wanted to play with your hair, twirl the strands in between his fingers, to pinch your full cheeks and annoy the life out of you before letting out the laugh that joins in his dreams. Sasuke realized that he had never had the chance to kiss you, leaving when too young only to find each other again now. The way you stood before him now, the way your power was making itself known had him weak in the knees, wanting to capture your puffy lips into a deep kiss and never let go. “Not now.” Orochimaru spoke dryly, appearing out of thin air and pushing away the blade from your throat as your hand finally released it. Sasuke knew Orochimaru was not incompetent as he knew quite well that his beloved vessel would never be capable of killing the truest love he had ever felt since the grim end of his family.

Slowly vanishing into an illusion of fire, the last image Sasuke had of you was knees hitting the ground roughly as the tears finally escaped those eyes that never left his mind.

That day he broke and failed you for the second time. He once again knew that he was never going to be able to fulfill your wishes, to offer you the life you truly deserved.

Yet again, the question that started all creeped in: What if?

⋯ ⋯

The first time Sasuke dared to kiss you was during the war and its heat of battle, an entire world too preoccupied to care of two teenagers silently accepting each other. Despite the skills he had developed along the years, Sasuke's all too perfect Sharingan proved to be a worthy opponent for Uchiha Madara and his acolyte, Obito Uchiha, yet it was not enough to protect him completely. "Y/N!" Naruto's scream ruptured from his lungs. Sasuke's head snapped violently towards the direction from which the voice came only to be met by your wide smile, lips shut and a rather disturbing peace engulfing the gaze set on him. Arms raised to the sides, knees slightly bent and trembling as blood was trickling slowly from the corners of your mouth. Dread. Complete and utter dread washed over Sasuke, life draining from his pale cheeks as you let out a chuckle. "I remember asking you to kill me a while ago." you said swallowing thick gulps of blood. "I'm glad you didn't. Who would've protected you now?" When the knees caved under you, his arms caught your body in an instant, Sasuke's eyes glancing at your back to see it riddled with multiple small, black rods, too many to count, embedded deeply into the flesh as some were halfway in, drenched in a Chakra that started to dissipate as they hit their target. You could have avoided this. You were not a simple Kunoichi that lacked the skills or the talent to dance between the deadly weapons. There was a choice to make to either let him be hit or protect him. You once again discarded your life for his, a memory of scrambled words pleading for him to kill you reemerging. "Why do you always have to be so annoying?" Sasuke hissed cupping your cheeks, thumbs wiping off the blood from the corners of your mouth.

"Is there any other way?" you asked, eyes half-lidded, pushing painfully a small smile. With complete disregard to bodies dropping dead around you, to the screams of Shinobi fighting, to Kurama's roar as Naruto protected you both, to Sakura finally reaching you, placing her arms on top of your back to heal you after removing each rod, Sasuke finally brought himself to do what he has always wished to. His lips captured your bloody ones, squeezing softly the flesh of your cheeks as you hummed. He was never the guy to show any kind of affection or emotion, to display it so publicly without shame, to let himself go in such dire situation. However, the fear of not knowing if tomorrow you will still be here crippled the most closed off boy this world has ever seen. God, he loved you so much it hurt. Searing pain twisting his heart in motions he never thought existed. "Sasuke .." Sakura whispered and he pulled back, jaw clenched with rage. "Leave Y/N to me, please."

"You owe me, Uchiha." your hoarse voice barely able to keep up its usual volume. "I saved your life. One day you'll have to save mine."

"Don't die." Sasuke said removing his hands from your face as Sakura's arm wrapped around your torso to hold you steady in the process. "Then I can pay my debt and save your annoying ass." As soon as the last two words rolled off his lips, Sasuke bent slightly, bringing his index and middle finger in front of your forehead before tapping them playfully against it just as his brothers used to. The last soft laugh you gave was met with immediate fainting, body resting into Sakura's arm as she healed you with the other. Your best friend's sadness was crippling because of the deep injuries you were possessing and he decided to throw himself into the battle, to have his mind not focusing on the thought of you dying.

When war broke, he swore to protect you even in exchange of his exhausting life. That day he failed you for the third time.

If you were ever going to wake up, to smile again, he would still plague himself with the question of What if?

⋯ ⋯

Tracing the few scars that could not be fully healed, Sasuke remembering each and every rod that caused them, even after three years since the war has ended. The warmth of your skin wrapped around the coldness of his fingers, a deep sigh leaving you at the touch. Both of your naked bodies were tangled into the sheets, limbs wrapped around each other as only slow, calm breathing could be heard.

⋯ ⋯

After the war, after choosing to not have his arm restored to always be reminded of his sins, a way of penance he deemed to be this particular choice, Sasuke left the Hidden Leaf to see how the Shinobi world will recover with his own eyes, to travel and reflect over the mistakes he made, to protect the village in his own way. He left without saying a word to you, silence filling the room as you both had nothing left to say. You hated it, you hated him for abandoning a promising life, you got tired of constantly begging for the love he had but never accepting it fully, so you stayed silent. Back turned, the door opened, Sasuke's steps leaving the wooden floor of your house for the last time. After a year and a half since his departure, he crossed paths with his best friend, leaves shuffling under their feet as they stood into the woods on a hidden path. Naruto was on his way back to the village as Sasuke used it for a detour towards another travel. That is how he found out you were finally happy. Naruto explained how, after he left, Kakashi as the Hokage accepted your choice of forsaking the life of one of the greatest Kunoichi and turned to be a simple teacher at the Academy. Mornings with the children, lunch at Ichiraku's with Naruto, dinner with Sakura and Ino, evenings playing Shogi with Shikamaru. You laughed again, eyes no longer red from crying constantly, dark circles under them long gone from the sleepless nights, finally accepting the help of your friends. Sasuke absorbed each and every word, tucking them into the deep corners of his heart as it brought him joy. He could never offer the life you truly deserved but everyone around you could. It didn’t fall on deaf ears how Naruto spoke of you, gaze not averting his, glossy eyes and blushed smile. Sasuke realized that his best friend was the real reason of you standing up and walking again on your own. He wanted to tremble with anger, to let himself be consumed by rage and scream in pain at Naruto. However, Sasuke could not. The man standing in front of him was capable of offering you exactly what he couldn't and it settled calmly into his troubled soul. If there was someone in this world he trusted more than anyone, it was Naruto. He was the only one he would entrust your heart to. "Does she feel the same?" Sasuke asked leaning against a tree.

"I don't know." Naruto replied doing the exact same, both face to face covered by the shadows of the trees.

"She should." Sasuke said studying his surprised expression.

"Sasuke, that girl loved you since I can remember." Naruto followed a bit taken back by his friend's words.

"That does not mean Y/N cannot love another." Sasuke replied with a small smile. "I have entrusted her to you the moment I left the village and you did not disappoint." Naruto's eyebrows shot up in surprise as he could not imagine for the life of him, no matter his feelings for you, to take away his best friend's only true love. He was probably the only person that knew Sasuke will never return fully to the village as there was simply too much torment in his heart. "I am entrusting you with Y/N's heart." Sasuke said pushing himself off the tree. "Do not fail me, Naruto."

⋯ ⋯

Another year and a half passed since that conversation and it marked the present situation in which you and Sasuke found each other for the past two days. Nothing but naked bodies, consuming each other to the point of exhaustion, soft touches following, sweet nothings being whispered under the safety of this roof. After three years in which you had learned and managed to build a life without the love of your life, to finally grasp the true meaning of happiness and be capable of feeling love again, you left the village. A month of searching, mind focused only on a simple goal, you finally found Sasuke tucked away into a small room in one of the hot springs at the border between the Country of Fire and Country of Rain. You knocked on the door, took a deep breath and listened to his bare feet slapping against the wooden floor. Sasuke's eyebrows shot up in surprise seeing you standing in front of him, civilian clothes without even the smallest smile. Your eyes were stormy, something brewing into them. Without any warning, your body wrapped around his as lips latched onto each other, hunger and fervor overcoming you both instantly. Sasuke did nothing else but to kick the door shut before taking you all in, drinking in your presence, senses sinking into the scent that always graced his dreams.

Two days later when there was all said and done, he could not bring himself to let you go. You felt so good against him, the comfort of your voice and smile gave Sasuke a taste of how it could've been: the way your lips were capable of breathing life into him, the way your skin against his unraveled every secret he has ever had, the way your eyes captured his heart ever single time he looked at you. "I know what you are about to say." you said quietly, fingers tracing circles on his abdomen. "And it is alright."

"You fell in love with him." Sasuke said placing a small kiss on your forehead. Both of you knew that this had to happen at some point, to wrap the entire story in a beautiful bow of closure. You had to have him, to feel everything he has denied you of all these years. Sasuke had to have you, to feel everything he has denied himself of all these years. You both knew that no matter how much you ended up loving Naruto, the man capable of breathing life back into you, the love that brewed for Sasuke will never go away. Both bound at a soul level, something no one would ever be able to replicate, steal or create.

Pushing yourself up, palms resting on his chest, noses brushing slightly, a small smile captured your lips, one Sasuke has not witnessed before. It was new, refreshing, full of hope and it warmed up his heart. "I'm marrying him." you said not losing the smile, the one that brought a newfound peace in your eyes.

"Good." Sasuke replied reciprocating the smile, able to recognize that you have both finally reached the end of the road. "You deserve the life Naruto has to offer, you deserve the happiness, you deserve a family and you deserve him." He watched how your gaze searched for any bit of dishonesty on his face but Sasuke knew you would not find any. Pain? Probably more than he would care to admit. Regret? Surely. The mistakes he made were many and this was the biggest one: the incapability of healing himself and becoming the man you deserved. With all of that, he was truly happy that the woman he loved beyond any reason one could ever comprehend was finally happy.

Leaning in, Sasuke captured your lips into a soft, calming kiss that reassured you, that erased your worries, that healed that part of you which knew you will never have a life, a family with him. And it was finally and undeniably alright. "One last time?" you asked as a spark of sadness briefly flashed into your eyes.

"One last time." Sasuke replied with a soft smile. As he pulled you into another passionate kiss, body settling under him, fingers intertwined above your head, both knowing that this was going to be the last act of your love. "I love you." you whispered against his lips.

"I love you too." he whispered back completely lost into you. Two hearts started racing in perfect sync and rhythm as never before for one last time. Two souls speaking the same language for one last time and asking each other: What if?

⋯ ⋯

Leaves turned brown, trees shedding their clothes, snowflakes followed coating the world in a white cloak before the sun could emerge, reviving the earth from its Winter slumber, flowers springing, spreading their perfume, waking up senses and bringing smiles on children's faces. That is how the years have passed, life settling in comfortably with you grading the papers of your beloved students and your husband peeking relentlessly from behind as he frowned constantly. "I bet you don't understand half of it." you chuckled knowing how much Naruto used to love school.

"I'll forgive you for this." Naruto laughed before placing one of his loving kisses on top of your head. "I understand everything, surprisingly."

"Then why are you hovering?" you frowned turning to face him with a pout.

"Because it's almost time." Naruto sighed pinching the bridge of his nose. "You do this every single year. How can you still forget?"

"I don't." you jumped pushing your finger into his chest, voice laced with a threatening tone that was more bark than bite. "This time the papers took longer than expected."

"Come on, love." Naruto smiled stealing a kiss from you. "This is YOUR day, the one you can never miss." Pulling back from his embrace, your eyes bore into the bright blue ones that always brought nothing but pure love and happiness to you as he managed to make you the happiest woman in the world. "Naruto?" you asked swallowing hard.

"Hm?" he nudged your nose with his softly.

"Thank you." you replied capturing his lips into a deep kiss.

"Anything for you." he said smiling into the kiss. "I might've healed your heart but your soul will always need the extra help." Naruto wrapped his arms around you, your head landing on his chest and you felt thankful, grateful. This man, this absolutely gorgeous and loving man was your man, yours only, your husband that saved your heart, breathed life back into you and gave you the most beautiful family anyone could ask for.

But .. he was right. Your soul will never be whole, that small, yet deep crack remaining as some kind of a battle scar because it was exactly it: the result of a battle between your heart and soul.

⋯ ⋯

Every year, on this particular date, it was the exact same without a single change. You would walk on the old training ground where Kakashi was always so determined to knock some sense into all of you, laying the multicolored blanket Sakura bought, knowing how much you loved reading in nature, under one of the trees, the shadow of its leaves protecting your skin from the sun before lazily opening the book you were reading in that particular week. It was such a bitter-sweet moment knowing what it actually meant.

In the same tree under which you spent your day, Sasuke would sit patiently on one of the branches above you, hidden by the crown of leaves for the children to not see. "Boruto!" your snappy voice, which had Sasuke always laughing quietly, resounded into the open space of the training ground. "Can you please stop trying to tie Himawari to that log? There will be plenty of time for that. Ask your father."

"But mom!" Boruto would whine.

"No buts." you instructed. "Play nicely." Boruto huffed and puffed before picking up Himawari to soothe away the sadness of him trying to tie her to the log by placing small kisses on her plump cheeks.

A melancholic smile curved Sasuke's lips, remembering quite well what it was like to be instructed by you, always having a certain way of keeping everyone on their toes. He took in the happiness radiating from you when watching your children, how your nose crinkled when Boruto was being annoying, how you hummed with care and love every single time Himawari kissed your cheeks, how you bit on your lower lip when the plot of the book became too intense.

God, he loved you.

Sasuke was happy. You became exactly the woman he always thought you will be, built the life you deserved, had the family you always wished for. Even if it had absolutely nothing to do with him, simply knowing you were happy and loved was more than enough.

Years ago, he entrusted Naruto with your heart and he still considered it to be the best decision he has ever made. Even without the closeness of your body to his, even without the passionate kisses full of love, even without you smiling because of him, YOU were undeniably happy.

Sasuke owed you from when you saved his life in the war - he had to save your own when the time comes. Now, the debt was paid as he proudly accepted that he saved your life.

Shuffling slightly, your back hit the tree and Sasuke's gaze diverted from the children only to meet the warmth of your eyes. Head tilted backwards, wide smile spreading all over your face and a faint blush pinching your cheeks. Then and there he saw it, the only thing Sasuke did not lost when he chose to let you go: all the love you had for him.

God, you loved him.

The way every single year, on this particular date, you would sit under this tree and he would be there, watching from above. It was precisely the day in which you two shook hands, the only person Sasuke did this with much to the surprise of other students. It was the day your fate was sealed and every year you would meet up here on the training ground. There are no words, no touches, but simply the presence of each other, closing the deep crack in your souls for one more year.

His lips curved into a warm smile, leg bent upwards to place his elbow on it for his cheek to rest into the palm as he kept the gaze on you while the other leg casually dangled off the branch. It was still there, in his eyes, never diminishing as years passed by and you felt completely at peace: all the love he had for you.

Naruto might be the love your life.

But Sasuke? Sasuke Uchiha was your soulmate in life and beyond.

Hearts intertwined, souls bound together, eyes telling your story, a single, innocent question lingered in the air:

What if?

[chestnut-b]

Himawari Chapter 13

“My thanks, Kakashi-san, for the recommendation. You might also be glad to know that Naruto finds great motivation in not just the promise of ramen, but the fact that he may one day finally, and I quote, “give Bakashi-sensei the beat down of a lifetime.”

I do not know what you did to deserve it, but a dream is surely a fine thing to have.

Chapter 13 of a Demon Slayer AU

“Hey, Iruka-nii?”

They were sitting under the tree in the courtyard, and Iruka had just finished recounting a story for the child plastered next to him. He’d been about ready to doze off, and his eyelids were still oddly heavy. 

Iruka-nii. 

The slayer found himself smiling. 

Naruto would never know how much it meant to hear that, every time. 

“Hmm?”

Even in the darkness, he could feel the weight of the boy’s gaze upon him. 

“What’s a Kyuubi?”

At those words, nothing could have stopped the rush of dread that sped through his veins. 

When Iruka’s eyes snapped open, he found himself no longer under the tree in the courtyard, but in his futon, staring into a pair of slit, molten glowing eyes across him. 

This again…

“Hey, Iruka-nii…” It was using Naruto’s mouth to speak, but the voice that resonated could only be described as unearthly, twisted and distorted.

“What’s a Kyuubi?”

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

Damn it.

Iruka had managed to suppress the scream, and now he sat, bowed over in his futon. He managed a few ragged breaths before the searing heat in his lungs forced several harsh coughs into his hand. 

“Iruka-nii?” 

He immediately turned to the source of the voice. Sitting up in his futon with his blanket around his shoulders, Iruka was met with a blue gaze, wide with worry. Slowly, he lowered the palm that he knew was stained red, and kept it clenched in his lap. 

“Naruto...what are you doing up?” It took every ounce of energy he had to smile.

“I couldn’t sleep.” Naruto answered meekly.

Iruka couldn’t help but be disturbed by the admission. He should have sensed Naruto’s movements, why hadn’t he?

“I heard you’ve been falling asleep more than usual during class. You’ve had trouble sleeping all this time?” 

Naruto looked hesitant to answer, but relented with a small nod. 

“How long?”

The boy squirmed under the blanket. Looking away, he murmured.

“Just a week, really.”

I should have paid more attention. Iruka chided himself. He wanted so badly to take the boy in his arms, but he couldn’t, not with the blood. So instead, he reached out with his clean hand, and placed it atop the child’s head.

“Is something bothering you?”

Naruto shook his head unconvincingly, causing Iruka to frown before flicking the boy on the forehead, eliciting a yelp.

“The truth, Naruto.”

The boy rubbed at his head guiltily. 

“Sometimes, I see a huge fox in my dreams…” he admitted. Seeing Iruka’s expression, he hurried to add, “Nothing really happens though, it just..walks around me.” 

He’s dreaming of the Kyuubi? I’ve never talked to him about it.

“Does it scare you?” 

Naruto shook his head. “It doesn’t do or say anything. It just looks at me. But each time I see it...it comes a bit closer.”

Iruka supposed he should have felt grateful, that these dreams of the Kyuubi weren’t anything like his. He would have asked for more details, but not wanting to alarm the boy, he diverted.

“I see...so if you aren’t scared, why can’t you sleep?”

The boy bit his lip. 

“Wisteria flowers. I keep smelling them in the air.”

So that’s what it is.

Iruka’s thought back to that first day in the wisteria grove; though he’d brought him back several times since, it never got any easier for Naruto to bear their presence. 

I figured this would happen eventually...but not this soon.

His gaze softened. With his free hand, he lifted the blanket from the boy’s shoulders.

“Naruto, I’ll be right back. Lie down and wait for me, I’ll tell you a story, that should help.” He motioned him back into his futon, and tucked him in with a few firm pats. Running his fingers through the blonde locks, he smiled as the eyelids beneath them fluttered closed. 

A short while later, when Iruka had returned with clean hands, he peeked into the room from the corridor. Sure enough, he heard the soft, familiar snores, accompanied by the gentle rise and fall of the blanket over the sleeping child. 

With a gentle push, Iruka shut the door. The autumn winds blowing through the corridors sent a chill through his body. He wrapped his haori just a bit tighter around himself as he took a seat on the floor. 

Hugging his knees to his chest, he looked up to a moon that was just a mere sliver in a cloudless sky. 

It brought to mind a single, smiling eye. 

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

“Eh? You mean we aren’t sharing a room anymore?” Naruto cried, tugging relentlessly on his sleeve.

Iruka sighed and shook his head while attempting to concentrate on the copy book before him. 

“Just while Jiraiya-sama is with us. You’ll be starting breath training soon.”

The explanation did nothing to deter the cries of protest. 

“Weren’t you the one asking for more of a challenge? The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll catch up to Kakashi-sensei.” 

“I knooow!” Naruto pouted. He placed his chin squarely on Iruka’s shoulder before wrapping his arms around his guardian’s neck. Flush against Iruka’s back, there was no way for him to see the smile that had made its way to the teacher’s lips. 

You’re always so warm, you know?

“Hey Iruka-nii…”

His smile faltered, he squeezed his eyes shut and held his breath, bracing for the worst.

Please, don’t let this be another dream.

It took a while, but the pause was soon broken by an uncharacteristically soft voice.

“We’ll always be together...right?” 

With a small sigh of relief, Iruka set the book in his hands down carefully, and leaned to press closer to the cheek against his. 

“Naruto, I promised you when we came here, didn’t I?”

The boy nodded quietly against him.

“Do your best, and we’ll go for ramen the next time we’re in town. Extra pork.” 

The arms around his neck squeezed harder, but not to the point of discomfort. “Really?!”

Iruka nodded firmly in response, and the boy erupted into joyous cheers. He smiled hard enough to make sure Naruto could feel it and closed his eyes, basking in the warmth and laughter. 

For my sake, don’t ever change.

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

After two months on the road, Kakashi found himself in another quiet village, though not quite as far north since his last expedition. He’d arrived just after sunset, and was lucky enough to find shelter at a house with a Wisteria crest in good time. After a light meal and a well appreciated bath, he’d handed over his uniform and haori for a much needed cleaning. 

In the warm light of a paper lamp, he surveyed his belongings. Among the items he’d extracted from his clothes; recently delivered letters, and a sea-blue omamori. The exact shade of blue, he’d realised months ago, as Iruka’s haori. 

He chuckled, recalling the deep red the teacher had turned when he’d finally pointed that fact out.

“Not all of us get to decide our own salary, you know.” He’d muttered quietly, sipping at his tea.

Kakashi beamed, and made sure Iruka was looking before he placed it back into his shirt pocket.

“I’ll treasure it for life, sensei.” He said, with a hand over his heart.

Refusing to take the bait, the teacher replied, deadpan.

“You’re supposed to get rid of those after a year.”

“Only if they were blessed by a priest, which this certainly was not. So this will probably last way longer, won’t it?”

Iruka snorted. After a short pause, he lowered the cup in his hands, revealing a tiny, restrained smile. 

“I’m afraid a lifetime guarantee doesn’t mean much coming from me, Kakashi-san.”

It wasn’t often that the Hashira found reason to laugh aloud, but around Iruka, it had seemed to become less of a rare occurrence.

“That makes the two of us then. But if the luck is found wanting, I’m going to have to ask for a replacement.”

There it was, the deep, exasperated sigh. The smile in its wake though, was unmistakably lined with amusement.

“Do as you like.”

Kakashi placed the charm by the lamp before picking up the papers.

The letters that had returned with Akino, one penned by Jiraiya, the other by Iruka, both reported, in code, the start of Naruto’s breath training. While the retired Hashira’s letter had come with much needed information about recent sightings and incidences from the other territories, Iruka’s differed most notably in the footnotes.

My thanks, Kakashi-san, for the recommendation. You might also be glad to know that Naruto finds great motivation in not just the promise of ramen, but the fact that he may one day finally, and I quote, “give Bakashi-sensei the beat down of a lifetime.”

I do not know what you did to deserve it, but a dream is surely a fine thing to have.

My regards to the rest of your pack, and safe journeys ahead for you all.

Iruka

It didn’t take much effort to imagine the expression on the teacher’s face when he’d written that part. 

Putting out the light, he lay down in his futon, and allowed himself to settle into the first restful sleep he'd had in weeks. 

He dreamt; of a bright afternoon and the tinkle of a glass wind chime. Not a word was spoken, but he remembered the warmth of a back against his, the sounds of turning pages, a brush on paper, and the soft hum of a summer song. 

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

“Well, I’ll be off.” Slinging his pack over his shoulder, Jiraiya turned, regarding Iruka and Naruto with one more glance.  

“Thank you for everything, Jiraiya-sama.” Iruka bowed deeply, and with a hand on Naruto’s back, motioned for him to do the same.

“There’s no need to rush. Naruto, you’re making good progress. Keep at it, and you might just get the first part down by my next visit.”

“Ehh...I’m already doing my best over here!” The child by his side cried indignantly.

“The path is a long one, my boy. But you’ll get there eventually.”

 “I’m never gonna beat Bakashi-sensei at this rate…” Naruto grumbled.

Iruka would have liked to put his head in his hand, but not in front of the former Hashira.

Jiraiya snickered and ruffled the boy’s hair. 

“Tell ya what, if I hear good things from Iruka-kun over here, I’ll bring you a souvenir when I come back.”

“Riight. I’d rather have more training than a souvenir!” 

“Naruto, you’re being ungrateful.” Iruka sighed, before turning to bow to the departing elder. 

“Safe journeys, Jiraiya-sama.”

Jiraiya turned to leave, but only managed a few steps before pausing.

“Iruka, it’s not too late.” 

Head still bowed, Iruka bit his lower lip. 

“Thank you, but I made my decision long ago.”

“...I understand.” Jiraiya acknowledged sternly, and turned to regard Naruto with a serious look.

“Take care of each other, you hear?”

“Of course! I’m gonna protect Iruka-nii!” Came Naruto’s determined reply, and Iruka was silently proud and pained at the same time. 

They watched him slowly disappear into the wilderness. Iruka had allowed his attention to drift into the early morning fog before them, but was brought back to reality by a smaller, warm hand that had slipped into his, gripping tightly. 

Naruto’s been working hard. Iruka mused. This hand...soon it won’t be that of a child’s anymore. 

“Let’s go! We gotta get your stuff back into our room!”

Iruka looked down, into the pair of sky blue eyes he loved so dearly and smiled, squeezing the hand back in return.

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

Another winter, another fever.

But that’s what you get for sleeping outside like an idiot.

He’d felt it coming, and before the worst of it had hit, he’d instructed the older children to take charge of looking after the young ones, and thankfully, Lee and Naruto were more than happy to share their room at bed time. Most of the other slayers stationed at the compound had been called away on a sortie a few days ago, with Izumo and Kotetsu on alert at the gates. The long nights of winter were difficult on everyone, slayer and common folk alike.

Not far from his futon, lay a neatly folded letter, one that had arrived just over a month ago, in time for Naruto’s birthday.

A little something for the winter ahead, sensei. Take care. 

Also, the pack has requested that I tell you, in no uncertain terms, that they miss you very much. 

It had been delivered with two finely woven scarves, and a cake of dried herbs for brewing.

That autumn night, when Iruka had finished saying the prayer for his parents at the shrine, the warmth it had provided took the worst of the biting chill of loneliness he’d felt. Now, wrapped around his neck as he burrowed deeper under the covers, it seemed to serve the very same purpose.

He would have allowed himself to fall back into blissful unconsciousness, had he not heard the trample of panicked running, and felt the burst of cold night air as the doors were hastily pushed open.

“Iruka-sensei!”

Lee and Kotetsu. This couldn’t be good. 

With great effort, Iruka got up on his elbows in an attempt to sit up. Lee, ever the helpful soul, moved to assist him, but his expression was tense.

Kotetsu crouched before him. “Bad news. We can’t find Naruto.” 

Those words, stringed together, may as well have been a lighting strike.

“Lee?”

“I’m sorry sensei! I got up to use the bathroom, but when I returned, he was gone, and the doors were open!” He cried. 

Iruka looked through the gap in the doors, and felt his stomach lurch. Darkness, spotted white. With a determined breath, he willed all his strength into his legs, and with support from Lee, took to his feet. 

“Nobody saw where he went?” He asked Kotetsu. 

“If he’d gone anywhere near the gates, we would have seen him.”

Iruka bent to pick up his haori and nichirin blade, ignoring Kotetsu’s protest.

“Iruka, you’re crazy. The others should be returning soon, When the snow dies down I’ll send a crow.”

The teacher shook his head. Putting on his sandals proved more difficult than he liked. Tying the final knots, he turned to the distressed boy beside him.

“Lee, stay with the rest. If Naruto comes back, send word. I won’t return until I’ve found him.”

“Yes, sensei. Please come back safely!”

“Iruka!”

“Kotetsu, I’m leaving them to you.”

With that, he left the room, and leapt into the abyss of night. 

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

Snow. It’s supposed to be freezing.

But why do I feel so hot?

Naruto could feel his naked feet sinking into the powdery snow, but the cold sensation never lasted for long, for within seconds, the ice was melting beneath his feet. 

In his vision, he could see the puffs on his breath in the air. They should have been white, but they were tinted in red, just like everything else around him. 

He was moving through the forest in a seemingly endless dream, like a spectator in someone else’s body. 

Coming to a stop, he took in a deep, concentrated breath. 

A familiar stench. 

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

Breathe. Focus.

Iruka was moving on pure instinct. Passing through each barrier, he reached with his senses. Buffeted by wind and the snow, he only had his breath training to thank for keeping him on his feet. He was hyper aware of every drop of blood pumping in his veins, and every twig that crunched under his sandals.

He skidded to a halt, when he felt it; the flare of Naruto’s aura, or rather…

The Kyuubi.

There was no time for despair. Instead, his mind raced through the quickest route to his quarry. He fished out a paper seal from his sleeve, and through the cold sweat and trembling fingers, activated it, and stepped through. 

When he emerged on the other side, he cried as his knees buckled under his weight, forcing him into the snow.

Not now. Damnit. Not now.

He couldn’t tell if his lungs were burning or freezing. It didn’t matter. After a series of hacking coughs, the previously pure white beneath him was spotted red. Iruka felt his head spin and the red dots in his field of vision started to blur.

Breathe!

He filled his lungs, and let out a desperate scream.

“NARUTO! If you’re there, answer me!”

Silence. 

Instead, a frightening cold wrapped itself around his heart, and every sense in his being started to flare. 

Demon. 

There’s another demon, and it’s close!

Iruka removed his nichirin blade from his belt, and digging into the ground, used it to get back up on his feet. 

I have to find him.

Unsheathing his blade, he gripped it firmly in his hands and squeezed his eyes shut. 

His surroundings faded into black, and there was the echo of a single drop of water. It bounced off the rocks, the trees, turning everything it touched into frosted glass. Then finally, the form of a young child, trudging through the snow materialised. 

What he didn’t expect to find, was another, third presence, approaching from a distance.

It was an adult, and in his hand was a nichirin blade.  

Iruka’s eyes snapped open. Forcing blood into his legs, he ran. 

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

When the familiar blonde hair and orange bed clothes came into view, Iruka wanted to cry in relief. But upon approaching, the sight that greeted him made his blood turn cold. 

The boy’s form was enveloped by a thin, orange-red aura. The snow on the ground and everything around him melted as soon as it made contact, and his entire form emanated steam. His hands, now clawed, were streaked in blood.

Who...whose blood?

“Naruto….NARUTO!”

The child fell to his knees with a groan, and Iruka ran towards him. He had no shoes on, and nothing besides his thin sleeping clothes. He took off his haori and scarf, intent on wrapping them around the boy’s shoulders. 

That is, until he saw the claws reaching for his throat. 

Iruka was tackled to the floor, and in the next instant, he found himself straddled at the waist. He held out his arms, grabbing the wrists that were slick with blood, before they found their mark. 

He looked up, already knowing what he’d see.

Glowing, slit orange eyes, staring at him like a beast would prey. 

“Get a hold of yourself, Naruto!”

There was no intelligible answer. The mouth that was usually pouting or stretched in a wide grin was now panting, lined with fanged teeth, drool running down his chin. To his rising horror, his chest was also marred, not just in blood, but deep slash wounds. 

He didn’t have the chance to grieve at his failures, for the pressure against his arms started to grow, and beneath his palms, a burning sensation. Past the pain, his mind raced.

Naruto’s injured, and he’s trying to find a way to heal. I have to get him back, before-

“Ohhh...what do we have here?”

Shit. 

Mizuki.

Sure enough, when Iruka turned his head, he saw the slayer’s approaching figure, blade unsheathed. 

“We were ordered to hunt down a runaway, but this is a complete surprise.” He said, almost flippantly. 

Ignoring his burning hands and lungs, Iruka struggled for a voice.

“Mizuki, don’t touch him. He’s -”

“I have no idea what happened while we were gone” he interjected, “but since it’s come to this, I’ll happily lend you a hand, Iruka.” 

“DON’T!”

Ignoring his pleas, the man stopped before them, poised to strike. 

Iruka didn’t even have to think on his next move.

There was a flash of steel.

When his vision finally cleared, he found himself looking down upon Naruto’s stunned face. His eyes were still a molten orange, but they were wide with shock.

Iruka smiled. He opened his mouth to speak, but instead of words, there was only the taste of copper. 

Moments later, he registered the blossoming of pain and wetness across his back.

But even then, he was filled with relief.

Mother...is this how you felt?...

He was already on his knees, but willed strength into his arms to prevent him from collapsing on the boy under him.

“What the hell are you doing?!” Mizuki hissed.

With an animalistic growl, Naruto attempted to lunge at the man behind him, but was caught in Iruka’s firm hold. The boy struggled against him, and Iruka grimaced as he felt claws dig into his right shoulder. At the back of his mind, he heard Sarutobi’s voice, and his final warning to him before they’d left his estate.

I can’t let him hurt a human. If he does, there’s no turning back.

With a hand, he pressed the boy’s head under his neck.

“Naruto, I’m sorry...I couldn’t find you sooner. But I promise...I’ll protect you...with everything I have.”

The child stiffened under his arms, and while the struggling ceased, the burning didn’t stop.

It’s ok. 

“If something happens, run.” He whispered.

Slowly, Iruka struggled to his feet, and turned to face the slayer behind him.

Breathe. Focus on stopping the bleeding. 

“Mizuki...the demon you’re after is still out there.”

“It doesn’t matter. I’ll slay the demon that’s right in front of me, and go after the other one. Get out of my way.”

In response, Iruka tightened the grip on his blade. Holding it up steady, he glared at the man across him.

You won’t be the first human I’ve cut. 

Forgive me, Father.

Mizuki’s eyes narrowed in disdain, 

“You’re breaking the code.”

“If you plan on touching a hair on his head, it’ll be over my dead body.”

“Suit yourself.”

The next instant, they were trading blows. Steel against steel rang out into the silence of the night. Iruka was better versed in technique, but he couldn’t match Mizuki’s physical strength. Soon, blood loss, exhaustion and fever began to take its toll on his form. He found himself being edged towards the trees, and with an upward swing, Iruka lost his grip on his sword. He heard it land in the distance, just before he was pinned to the tree behind him by a blade through his shoulder. 

It took every inch of willpower to suppress his cry, but when an enraged growl reached his ears, Iruka screamed.

“Stay where you are, Naruto!”

“You don’t have time to be looking elsewhere, Iruka.”

His vision went white, as he felt the bite of steel as the blade pushed further in. 

Breathe. Breathe!

“It’s a pity, I wouldn’t have minded playing around with you.” Mizuki seethed into his ear.

That was all he managed before snapping back, his expression suddenly soured. Iruka forced himself to look, and just beyond Mizuki’s shoulder, a fourth presence. 

Mizuki collapsed at his feet, and on his back, three deep slash wounds, just like the ones Naruto suffered. 

The newly arrived demon, with the stature of a child not much older than Naruto, stared at Iruka. He too, bore the injuries from a fierce battle, and he hungered for human flesh to recover. 

Bracing himself, Iruka gripped the steel that pinned him to the tree, and pulled. The release left him breathless, keening, and he leaned against the rough bark behind him. Tossing Mizuki’s blade aside, he reached for the kunai hidden under his shirt with his only functioning arm.

You can’t pass out now.

His mind raced, against blood loss, and his narrowing field of vision. 

The demon lunged for him, and he leapt, landing between it and Naruto. But his vision swam, and whatever strength that had been holding on left his legs, just as his opponent changed course.

Time seemed to slow, and he was ready to squeeze his eyes shut to brace for the blow, before a fiery blur dove past him.

He saw Naruto; clawed arm outstretched, grip the demon by forehead. It screamed as it was engulfed by the same aura that surrounded the boy.

But what sent Iruka’s mind reeling was not the flames, but the fact that as the seconds passed, the form which was once clearly demonic in nature, was slowly taking on a human appearance once again. 

By the gods... 

The small miracle was fleeing, for the demon’s blood seemed to fight the change, and struggled against it with an inhuman screech. Like many of its kin, it eventually started to crumble into a glowing, black ash, carried off by the freezing winds.

Gripping his arm, drenched in blood, Iruka dropped his kunai and called out to the boy.

“Naruto.”

The boy turned to him, and part of Iruka despaired, for the eyes were still slit. 

He collapsed. The blood seeping from his wounds started to bleed into the snow, and he watched, with cold detachment, the expanding sea of red.

Iruka thought, if he just closed his eyes, he could finally rest. But suddenly, his ears picked up the sounds of approach. Faster than anything he’d witnessed tonight, with a killing intent far greater than Mizuki’s had been.

He heard a hiss, and approaching Naruto; camouflaged by the snow and mud, was a snake with ruby red eyes. 

No more, there was nothing more he could do to protect Naruto. 

“Naruto, run.” he gasped.

As darkness overtook him, the last thing he heard was the shrill cry of a crow in the distance. 

Kakashi-san, I think...I understand a little better now.

With a rueful smile, he closed his eyes. 

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

“Oh dear! I’m so sorry about that!”

Kakashi was sitting at a roadside teahouse, and his fingers had just touched the edge of his tea cup before he heard a sharp crack. The next instant, the cup split, spilling tea over the seat beside him. The old lady serving him quickly moved to fuss over the mess. 

He didn’t give it much thought, though it was undoubtedly, a waste of good tea. 

A certain someone would have given him a good talking to for that crime. 

He would have chuckled at the thought, but the familiar beating of wings diverted his attention. 

The Hashira was faced with the beady red eyes of a messenger crow. 

Well, this can’t be good.

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

End of Chapter 13

Author’s Notes:

Wow. More action writing here than in my entire writing experience combined! Phew. Another tough chapter to write, thanks for waiting though! These chapters do take a while to find their footing. The art for this was done more than 2 months ago, and the sequence changed while I was writing the chapter, so if it confuses you, I apologise! 

I just want to say how much I appreciate all the comments you guys leave at the end of each chapter! They really do give me the strength and motivation to keep writing and drawing, as I’m sure they do for every other writer and artist out there. Thank you!! :D

Next chapter: The Hashira Appear!! 

[spield]

the sun and the moons - decades after

Notes: This is probably (most likely) isn’t what people expect when they asked for a suns and the moons sequel/follow-up for the infinite universes anthology. But this has been in my drafts ever since Naruto got sick in the first one.  Summary: Sakura’s life with the Uchiha family is a storied one, but we must remember that she loved Naruto first, as he had loved her. And in his deathbed, he requests to see her. 

Long, long after, Naruto’s the one who departs the world of the living first.

As Sakura steps into the main house of the Senju, she tries to recall a time passed. The old house remains unchanged, its floors polished clean even as grief seeps into its planks, leaking from the room where Naruto’s life force flickers.

Who would’ve thought they’d get here?

Here, with Sakura, old, with her bones creaking and eyes milky green? Her back bent but not wavering, covered by the crest of this house’s old rival?

At a distance, she hears the sobs of little ones, mourning. Mourning, in a time of peace. That alone is a privilege, she thinks, one that she and Naruto paid - kicked, fought, and broke their hearts- for. And will pay again and again if asked.

“Sakura-chan.”

Hinata’s soft voice rings true like bells as she steps out of her husband’s room. She, too, is older. Still beautiful, with her fading raven hair and kind eyes. At her side is a cane, she’s never fully recovered from her last childbirth no matter how hard Sakura tried.

Here, away from the sun and the moon, only the lanterns paint and touch the two women of Naruto’s life. From the East, his childhood love stands and in the West, his wife of six decades.

When Hinata wrote Sakura, saying that Naruto asks of her, she almost said no, knowing the pain the woman must be in learning that in her husband’s time of death - he asks for another?

What of their years together? What of their children?

But, oh, the rose-tinted glasses of an old loss can blind even the most reverent of men. And so, Sakura came. (because, she also knows the desire, the desperation, to give someone she loves everything on their death bed — Itachi asked for an illusion, Madara asked for a goodbye— she can’t bear the thought of wondering what Shisui and Sasuke will ask of her. Her soul might just fly if they ever leave her. Her moons, her loves.)

Hinata steps aside and her voice breaks, “He asks for you.”

When Sakura thought about death in her younger years, she always envisioned a fall in battle. It was a time of war, that is to say, it was also a time of grandeur, bravery, and spinning of legends. She always thought it’d be with Naruto.

He and her, protecting the Senju down to their very last breath.

In these thoughts, Naruto always goes last. Seeing Sakura to her crossing, arms around her broken body, bright blue eyes against the blue, blue sky. His smile, strained, promising to follow soon after.

It’s morbid, but it’s all the romanticism they allowed themselves then.

But then, here they are.

The only thing that remains true from those thoughts are Naruto’s eyes, still. Blue, blue as the oceans and as bright as his heart. His sun-lit hair is pale against his pillows, and yet, so, so, bright still.

“Sakura-chan,” he calls, squinting in her direction.

Across him, Sakura steps closer, her feet not as light and quick as in their youth. Much of it spent chasing children and grandchildren she never thought she’d have.

Soon, she reaches his side and takes his withered hand. “Hello, Naruto.”

Naruto smiles, deep lines of grief and happiness etched on his face and for a moment, they are young again. All the pain and responsibilities off their backs like water against a duck’s. “How are you?”

It startles a laugh from Sakura, the very unimportant question of her well-being. “Old. Old and tired,” she laughs, “Why make me take this trip, you idiot.”

The question hangs like Hinata’s cloaked chakra outside the paper thin walls. Away, but not quite. Not even the most selfless of love can drag her away from this. Not even when it hurts.

“I can’t leave without saying goodbye,” Naruto whispers, “And we have so many stories we haven’t told.”

This, this is not a last confession. Nor is it a time for whispered regrets. In the light of the candles understands what this is. A conversation, a goodbye. A last catch-up with a dear friend, and this makes emotion ball up in her throat that all she could do is nod. 

For hours, she makes herself comfortable on a cushion beside her old love’s bed and they talk. 

They talk not of their past together, but of the lives they built apart. They skip the politics, the clans, the responsibilities, and speak of things they would’ve spoke of if they’d remained close. 

Naruto confesses how he fell in love with is wife - “by the moon, Naruto, really?” “Hinata thought it was romantic!” - and he asks how she fell in love with hers - “fire-blown glass? that’s... romantic, I guess?” “oh, shut up, Naruto, Sasuke worked hard on it.” “yeah, sure, can’t imagine him blowing up smoke up--” - and so much more. 

Sakura could feel the bijuu’s chakra leaking out of Naruto, volatile and poisonous, as the night deepens. But Naruto pushes it back with a wince, buying himself more time. He turns incredibly cheeky as the candles burn through. 

“You’re daughter, Sarada...”

Sakura rolls her eyes, “Yes, what about my lovely daughter?”

Naruto smiles, eyes warmed with fondness. “Boruto’s fond of her. Seems like an Uzumaki trait, huh?” 

Something rattles in Sakura’s lungs as she laughs, chuckles at the image painted by her old friend. 

Boruto might be his father’s carbon copy, but he doesn’t have his flair for honest, earnest conversations. He might have a great deal of a harder time winning her daughter’s heart, but he could - if Sakura’s right about Sarada’s eyes. 

(now, if only her husbands will stop glaring at the poor boy...)

“So it seems.” 

Naruto sighs, sinks back to his pillows with a pondering smiles. His voice is raspy from use, quality brittle, the exhaustion catching up to him. “Who would’ve thought?”

Beside him, on his bedside table is a photo of his family. He and Hinata only had two, despite of trying for more. Boruto, with his eyes as blue as his father’s and hair as gold as the sun, and Himawari, with her mother’s hair and her mother’s eyes with a hurricane for a heart. 

In another life, they could’ve been hers. Theirs. 

But as Sakura holds his hand, eyes tracing the lines on his face, she finds not an ounce of regret. 

Good. Because it has no place here. No space for if’s and if only’s, or promises for a second life. No. They won’t insult themselves and the people they love for it. 

Finally, as she feels his control waver, and eyes wandering, she lets go, and stands, her old bones creaking audibly.  

“Were you happy?” Naruto asks, old, wiser, and still so, so kind. 

Sakura smiles, “Were you?”

Naruto falls back to his pillows with a smile, his eyes flickering to the door where Hinata’s shadow stands unwavering, “I am.”

This time, when Sakura walks out of the door, she doesn’t weep. 

Hinata looks up at the opening of the shoji door, protest ready to spill from her lips. The jutsu wavers, and her ears ring with the songs of cicadas. She didn’t want to intrude, perhaps, but it’s more of she didn’t want to hear. 

Sakura stands beside her kneeling figure and sighs, sinking to her knees. 

The two hold hands in solidarity as they feel the man they love, albeit in different ways, and whispers words of gratitude. Sakura, for letting her see him again, and Hinata for granting him this wish. 

But, as Sakura stands up and pushes away Hinata’s surprisingly strong hands that beg for her to stay with her husband, she hopes that the matriarch understands and remembers that at the end it is this: 

Sakura may be Naruto’s first love, maybe his greatest love, but it wasn’t her he spent his life with.

It was her, Hinata, who spent decades by his side, ruling the clan with dignity and grace. It was Hinata who saw him transformed into a boy-leader into a man, it was Hinata who bore him children, who love him—

It was Hinata who stayed.

It was Hinata he built a life with.

At the end of all things, it’s her he loved the longest and it’s her he wants on his deathbed.

Sakura understands that, and with the way flowers bloom on her fellow kunoichi’s cheeks as she enters her husband’s room again, Hinata also do. 

“Are you ready to go?”, her youngest husband asks when she steps out of the gates. Behind him, Shisui waits in a carriage, their third son sitting in front.

With the bright lights of the Senju compound behind her, Sakura nods and takes Sasuke’s hand, “Yes. Let’s go home.”

End Notes: Hearts are golden but reblogs and comments will be much more appreciated! 

[borusawa]

Favorite Girl

❀ Pairings   BoruSara

❀ Rating   T (mentions drugs abuse)

❀ Beta-reader  @abbypdg

❀ Word Count 2,200

❀ A/N Thanks to everyone who voted on my twitter and chose this story. I’m really proud of the result. I’ll love to know your thoughts so share them freely! (Highly inspired by the song "Best Friend” the Cavetown version)

Sarada was so beautiful.

He wondered how he wasn’t able to see that before she started dating someone else.

Boruto thought he was going to lose control the first time he saw Sarada kissing her boyfriend right in front of him as if people around didn’t exist. She even dared to smile during the kiss, making his insides twist in beg for him to shut his eyes close, or simply look somewhere else. He couldn’t look anywhere else but her.

The truth is that Boruto never thought about Sarada as anything more than his best friend, so he had no idea of what was the new feeling inside his chest while he watched her actually showing affection to someone else. Seeing the touch and the kisses made Boruto wonder how would it be if he was in that guy’s place. Would she give him those smiles? Would she kiss him with that much passion just because the feeling was too much to keep inside? Boruto was completely aware that it wasn’t a safe track of thoughts, but recognizing it and actually stop thinking about her in that way were two different things. He just wanted to taste her lips once, even though knowing nothing would be the same after that.

He didn't know what to do. It was like his body had no power by itself and it was urging for her touch, to feel her skin against his. It took too long for him to realize it, and he was sure it was all lost. That until his birthday.

It was his party, but he was not having fun.

Boruto could not have fun or peace while he knew Sarada was somewhere else with her “boyfriend” instead of attending to his stupid party. He regretted throwing a party in the first place because although all those people loved him, he couldn’t avoid but check the phone in search for at least one message saying sorry or giving an excuse. That was what bothered him the most: she was not feeling sufficiently sorry to send a ridiculous apology, not even an obvious lie. He didn’t want to rely on alcohol once more when it came to her—all the bars in the city already knew him; for most of them, he wasn’t bold enough to return ever again.

She was his little trouble, his best problem. Thinking about her could be both a relief and a pain and no one else could understand so he quit explaining. That was it. Boruto had no idea if they remained friends at this point—what kind of shitty friend skipped a friend’s birthday party?—and he just wanted one call from her so he could act as if everything was fine.

“What are you doing?” Boruto turned to face a black haired girl with blue eyes just like his. Her questioning stare always found out the truth, no matter how much he tried to hide it. “Thinking about Sarada, right?”

Boruto took one sip of his drink. The whole room was already kinda dizzy around him and his sister’s voice seemed far despite the fact that she was right beside him, her hand carefully placed over his arm. “I’m worried. She didn’t come nor left a message and that’s so un-Sarada-like.”

Himawari sighed heavily expressing extreme concern toward the whole situation. “I’m pretty sure she is on her way,” that was what she really believed.

Boruto threw his body on the couch in a precarious demeanor quietly accompanied by his sister. “You know what? I’m fine. Don’t worry.” His smile would be convincing to anyone but Himawari. Nonetheless, the young girl was not stupid, and she knew better than to question her brother’s attitude further.

“You promise me?” Hima tilted her head.

“Promise.”

They smiled for each other for a second before Himawari got up. “Don’t stay here all night. Talk to your friends, take her out of your mind for a change.”

Boruto knew forgetting wasn’t a possibility—he tried so hard to but never achieved any results—so he made no further promises; however, as soon as she left, he just got up to pour another drink. It didn’t take long for some of his friends to find him and engage a conversation dripped in alcohol. He missed them. He missed being around his friends other than Sarada, Mitsuki and the drunk people of Konoha’s bars, but between missions and regrets, he had no time left.

Cup after cup and he was no longer aware of the world around him.

It was late when Shikadai reached for him and said they were leaving, and not much after other people left as well. The party was over. She didn’t appear. He glanced at the clock on the opposite wall while scratching his head and the pointers showed that it was 4am. The hangover started to hit in. Boruto pondered about his possibilities—he could either go to sleep and get a deserved rest or start to drink again. He chose the latter.

The strong taste felt like it was burning inside but this pain could at least make him forget any other. When did he become so… unhappy?

“Boruto? Are you okay?” The voice belonged to a girl, but Boruto didn’t even check who despite knowing his house was supposedly empty. He just closed his eyes and swallowed the last drop of his drink, placing the cup back on the table right after.

“I’m fine.” His voice was crackled and inconsistent.

A soft hand touched his back with a familiar warmth. “You are not okay, stop lying.”

When Boruto finally glanced at the origin of the voice Sarada was there, red dress and big black eyes piercing through his soul. Boruto grinned; he was happy to see her and she gave him a soft smile as an answer to his obvious satisfaction. “I’m sorry I’m late.”

“I thought… You weren’t coming.” His voice told more than he was expecting to.

“What?” Sarada fixed glasses and giggled. “What made you think that? I would never miss your birthday.”

“Well, you’re also never late.”

Sarada sighed and her eyes darted around. Boruto never quit looking at her since her uncommon attitude made him suspicious. “I had reasons.” At his stare, she blushed. “We should… Sit on the couch, maybe? I want to talk to you about something.” Boruto raised his body from the chair and gave a small step. The alcohol made him stumble and he would hit the ground if it wasn’t for Sarada holding him. “Oh shit, you’re really drunk! Why did you drink that much?” She started to drag him and he simply let her. “You shouldn’t drink, look at your state!”

Boruto smirked. “Are you worried about me?”

“Sadly, I always am.” Sarada sighed but then smirked. “I should take you upstairs and then you can take a rest.”

They started to walk and his eyes never left her. The way her expression painted concern made him grin, even though he knew he shouldn’t be delighted by making his friend worried. She opened his room’s door in such a comfortable manner that he asked himself how did she get so easily stuck in his life and became impossible to cut her out. Having no idea if it was the alcohol speaking, he suddenly felt hope about them; something indicated that her sudden kindness toward him was not random. The truth was that Sarada had always been amazing and thoughtful; she always had that aura of someone you can trust your life to—and Boruto trusted her.

She placed him on his bed and closed the door starting to pace around immediately after. He was only waiting for her to speak first.

“We need to talk,” she declared as if it wasn’t clear already.

“You know that I’m too drunk to talk right now,” he said playfully.

“This is all your fault.” She interrupted her anxious pacing only to send a glare at his direction.

He was confused at her statement—startled, to be precise—and his eyes narrowed at her. “What did I do this time?”

A moment of silence settled in the room and the air was getting heavier every second, both of them increasingly anxious to her next words. “I broke up with my boyfriend.”

Sarada blushed deeply, not knowing how to hide the unexpected feeling of relief that telling Boruto brought to her. She made the ultimate promise to be true to herself before her birthday and decided that it should start by her feelings. Breaking up with someone she didn’t really like was easy, the hard part was confronting the one she really liked and that also decided to be drunk the same night she was determined to explain him everything.

“I don’t get it, I thought you loved him.”

“You’re wrong. I thought I would love him and unlove someone else, so I guess we were both wrong. You and I.”

Although completely drunk, Boruto didn’t want to hurt her feelings, so he placed his words carefully. “I’m sad to hear that” He was so not.

“You’re such a great liar, even when you’re drunk, but it doesn’t work with me and I love that.” She sat by his side on the bed, a shy smile looming.

“Is that what you like the most about me? The fact that I’m easy to read?”

“No.” She said matter-of-factly. “First of all, who said I like you?” She denied to look at him; he did the exact opposite.

“I am the reason you broke up, ain’t I?” She didn’t show any reaction so he kept going. “I knew I should’ve made you mine when I had the opportunity.”

“Opportunity? I don’t recall giving you any.” Sarada smirked.

Boruto overdramatically placed a hand on his chest. “Ouch.”

“But I should have.” She sighed. “God, I hope you’re drunk enough to not remember any of this tomorrow.” She took a deep breath and stared at him for the first time in a while. “You see, I planned a whole speech on my way here and when I saw you, I forgot everything. It feels so weird, almost like I’m not me anymore. I hate that.” Despite the clear effort, her blush deepened.

The subsequent silence scared her but she was not brave enough to break it. Boruto did that for her. “You’re blushing.”

“I know.”

“Why are you blushing?”

Sarada narrowed her eyes. “I shouldn’t have come here.” She got up but Boruto held her wrist. It would’ve been a simple touch if they weren’t them. For them, a simple touch was enough to send shivers throughout their bodies and to make a now common cold appear in their stomachs. His mind was racing, looking for the right words to make her stay but it wasn’t easy.

“Stay a little longer. Please.” The pledge was a whisper, almost like he didn’t want to say it and Sarada felt every word.

“I… I have nothing left to say.” She turned herself to him.

“I’m willing to hear anything that means listening to your voice the whole night.”

Sarada blinked twice, their heartbeat increased while they looked at each other’s eyes. She was wondering how could her heart be beating so fast and her body still working perfectly—shouldn’t she be dying or something? “It’s almost five in the morning.” She sat again. “Don’t you have anything to tell me?”

Boruto tilted his head and smirked, “You didn’t tell me anything, to be honest.”

Sarada threw herself on the bed for once, the aroma of clean sheets entering her nose. “I’m sorry, Boruto.”

“Not what I was expecting but... What are you sorry for?” He raised a doubtful eyebrow and mimicked her, throwing himself right by her side. “Skipping my birthday?”

“Oh my god, I have so much to apologize for.” Boruto chuckled when she placed her hands over her face. “Okay. First of all, I’m sorry for skipping your birthday. Second, sorry for never giving you a chance. And lastly,” she took a deep breath, “sorry for hiding my feelings toward you for so long.”

Boruto sighed and looked at the ceiling. “You’re doing better than me. I drank thinking about you a hundred times and yet never actually thought about telling you anything.”

“Is that why you’re drunk now?” Boruto mumbled in response and Sarada giggled. “Say what?”

“I love you.”

Sarada felt her blood stop running in her veins and her heart beating in her whole body. It was a nice, comfortable sensation even knowing that he was the cause of all good feelings that filled her at that moment, in the middle of the night—almost morning—in an empty after party for which they were the only ones invited. She knew that what she felt was the type of feeling that people wrote about—the unstoppable unavoidable wish to be by the side of someone you love—and she was sincerely glad to share it with the person she cared the most all her life. Finally.

“Boruto… I love you.” She turned to him but his eyes were closed, and a light snore could be heard. Sarada chuckled softly. “I hope you were sober enough to remember everything tomorrow.”

[lemonietrinket]

Himawari ||| Kevin x Reader

Summary: Kevin is a ray of sunshine, and so are you. This time, Kevin has something to say to you. Genre: Fluff, as per usual Word Count: 1750 Theme Song: Man in a Movie - Day6; Spark - JBJ95 AN: Kevin Woo, an underrated ball of soft. Another request from @idont-knowabrian​ because they have good ideas. Thanks for reading!

Kevin took a deep breath.

It wasn’t like him, usually, to be so nervous. He’d been on so many stages, in so many recording studios, before so many important people, he reckoned he’d abandoned the idea of being nervous way back in his debut years.

And yet here he was, at your front door, freshly painted citrine by your own hand, cold dispelled by a smart but thick jacket, and  ever so slightly shivering,

Ah yes, that was the day he first met you. Walking past the terraced houses on his way to work, he’d glanced to his right and seen you coating the door in a very diligent fashion. Once he’d passed your door several times, greeting you with a wave and a shy smile every morning, and after you’d worked up the courage to ask if he really was who you thought he was, did he find out why you insisted on painting it in such a primary shade.

“To fulfil a childhood dream of mine.” You had shrugged. “I always wanted to live in a house with a big front window and a yellow door. Not that it originated from any great tragedy! I just... you know. Really like the colour yellow.”

You’d gone on to explain how you had finally had the chance to control the environment that surrounded you, after a youth characterised by restrictive policies that now as an adult you had escaped from. He would never admit it, out of politeness and slight shame on his own behalf, but he was more focused on your face at that very moment. He could still picture how your eyes flickered to the side, how you frowned and scrunched your nose at your own words, at the very moment your lips twitched into a smile, sheepish but no less relaxed. 

The memory did little to calm his nerves, merely lending a hand to his heart’s fluttering.  But it was no use now, as the very door opened to reveal you.

He was 90% sure his heart stopped.

“Kevin! Hi!” you exclaimed, face glowing in the dim streetlight behind. “You’re actually right on time. Not even a minute late!"

His eyes swept over the visage before him. You, in a mustard wool blouse, tucked into a deep moss-green skirt that billowed in the breeze at your ankles. Your eyes glittering in the twilight—a pool he wanted to sink into and also avoid for his own heart’s safety—outwitting the moon in a knowing gaze aimed only at him - a concept that almost stole his words - standing somewhat awkwardly in the doorway, hands clasped behind his back.

“You must be some kind of miracle,” you stated, voice touched with wistfulness.

He coughed, being very abruptly dragged from his thoughts. “What? Me? No! No, not...” He shook his head, playing it off with a laugh.

“What? Always here perfectly on time, always looking as dashing as you always do, it’s not a preposterous proposition, you know!” 

He shook his head, tipping his head away from the playful glint in your eyes, and letting his hands do the talking for him. 

You gasped, even though you saw the gift coming from a million miles away. Even if those million miles was only the couple of metres of your front path.

“Oh Kevin...!” You took the bouquet into your hands, eyes mottling with tears that you couldn’t quite contain, that matched the polka-dotted ribbon of pastel blue that neatly held the piece together.

The sunflower petals, smooth and radiant, were no match for you, Kevin decided. But as you cradled the bouquet close to your chest and stared up at him, lips—kissed by the sunshine itself—wavering in joy, he felt his heart swell to the point he felt as if it could burst.

“I hoped you’d like them,” he mentioned.

“I love them, Kevin, thank you so much!”

You sighed, peering down at the soft plumes. “Let me get a vase and water for them real quick—I won’t be long!”

And you disappeared from his sight.

What was he to do with himself? All tongue-tied and very nearly misty-eyed for you, a child of the sun. You’d been dating for a while, and what he’d planned wasn’t something to get this worked up about, surely.

But for you, he could barely contain the emotions that flooded from his soul. Feelings could no longer be caged by his ribs. They already struggled to contain the rapid march of his heartbeat.

He forced himself to take a deep breath, ironing out the tremors and his blending fears with it. He straightened his jacket, an undefeatable smile playing upon his lips. How luck had been on his side for him to even have the opportunity to meet you.

“Ready to go?” you suddenly enquired, reappearing in his vision and hanging from the door as much as you hung off his words—not that he was quite aware of that.

“If you are, then of course!”

“Great!” You locked your door with a grin, swinging your keys into your satchel, before coming to his side happily. You looped your arm around his, pulling your coat’s collar up to your chin to keep out the windchill while sending him the glimmering smile he adored so dearly. “Where to, fair knight?”

“Oh, um...” he rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, there is this small late-night vintage cafe I thought you’d feel at home in. We could go there first, and then the park after?”

“Sounds like a quest.” You nodded. “Let’s go!”

.

~ ~ ~

.

Your laugh fluttered in the breeze, blissful and very near misty in the shadows the lamps and stars could not banish. Skirt flowing, you span, arms wide as if to welcome.

“And then she went round and round like this!”

Kevin could barely hold back his laughter, feeling tears well in his eyes at your performance. He didn’t care if people questioned as they passed. In fact, he barely noticed them. Why would he, when the most important person was skipping along the cobblestone a few feet ahead of him?  “Why would she do that?!”

“I don’t know!” you feverishly giggled. “Wouldn’t you in that scenario?”

“No!”

“Well, she’d say ‘that’s your loss’!” 

As you wound around the paving, you drifted back to his side, arms clutching at his sleeve as you stumbled, dizzied.

“I shouldn’t have given you that much sugar,” he chuckled,.

You twisted your face in an exaggerated scowl. “Why ever not?”

Kevin felt his mouth continue without the accompaniment of his brain. “Ah well,” he guffawed, “it’s dangerous for me, you know.”

You played along with a hum. “How so?”

He felt the mild horror of his rational mind press him to change tact, but his words just continued to... spill.

“Well, you’re already too sweet for me to handle, and now? It’s just... too much for... my...”

“Heart?” you finished, expression twisted in an amused grimace at the cheese.

“Yes, I...” he broke down to breathy laughter, “I’m so sorry, I don’t know what the was at all—”

“Kevin, it’s fine, don’t worry,” you linked arms once again, “it’s just, unexpected of you.”

He gazed down at you, edging you to continue without another word passing his lips. Just in case whatever hysteria enraptured him the first time infected him again and he said something even worse. 

“I pegged you as the sweet type, but not the cheesy,” you placed a finger to the corner of your mouth, “however, I suppose on the Sweet & Cheesy Venn Diagram, there is instinctively an overlap.”

Bemusedly, he gushed, “What?”

“What?” you echoed, confused by his outcry. “Do you not understand me?”

“No,” he admitted. He immediately looked back to you, searching your face for any signs of offence taken. He found only mild excitement, as you awaited his continuation.  “No, I don’t think I do. But I feel I prefer it that way. You’re so... unique? Your energy is different from other people—friends and coworkers, I mean. I don’t know how to explain it but... things are so much more different with you here. I don’t think I could ever be without you.”

The two of you drew to a stop beneath a lampost. High above, the wind grasped a spider web and swung it into a waltz.

“Do you mean that?” you murmured, voice no higher than a mid-summer zephyr.

He, who’d continued to walk a couple of paces even though it had left you slightly behind, turned back to face you, as well as the anxieties that had lasted all evening.  “Yes. Of course. Without a doubt,” he insisted.

You stepped forward until the lamplight illuminated only you. Crested with a halo, your hands slowly wringing one another at your chest, you were lost for words.

Your silence only prompted him further, as he bit the bullet.

“Y/N, you’re the brightest piece of light in my life, sometimes you shine so brightly I could confuse you with the sun. And, I love you.”

You were stunned, to say the least. You had seen it coming but, not for another couple of weeks, you’d assumed.

But here he was, a few feet away, ever so barely shaking out of subtle fear, but his shoulders brazened, a determined expression painting his soft features that you cared for so dearly, with his eyes glistening in the auburn light and nearly flooding with sincerity.

You made the rest of the distance in a few steps, refusing to tear your eyes away, even if it would be for the entire world’s sake.

Once you reached him, you reached up to cup his cheeks, smoothing his nerves and drawing him closer to your level, before melding your lips with his.

Feeling the one thing he’d dreamt of ever since the first time he’d worked up the courage to utter words to you wash over him, he very nearly froze.

However, he managed to hold himself together—though only just—and relished in the brush your sweet lips against his own. He threaded his hands through your hair, to barely rest on either side of your jaw. His touch was so light you could almost imagine it missing, not that you ever would even dream of doing so.

Melting further into the kiss, you knotted your hands behind his neck, just as he let his hands fall to the small of your back, and the two souls drawn together by luck finally combined.

~~~

AN: I know how to em-dash on my Chromebook now and I am so happy oh my jesuuuusss Also, zephyr is a great word that should come back into common use

Masterlist

[shikastemari]

cologne - b&s.

pairing boruto uzumaki x sarada uchiha

characters uchiha family; boruto; some random oc

request

word count 3,740

when it happens they’re 18 here

warnings none i guess i still suck at these

a/n now my notes will be after the text to avoid telling y’all any kind of spoilers!

MASTERLIST

“Boruto, again?”

Sarada dramatically stopped breathing, narrowing her eyes at her teammate who had just gotten out of the shower. Her sharingan wasn’t showing, but it was inevitable her eyes to follow the drops of water running down his chest, to a rigid abs’ muscles, dying on the towel around his waist. His ‘V’ line was marked clearly, and Sarada had to pinch herself to look away.

“Stop picking on my cologne, for goodness.” Boruto threw at her face the towel he was using to dry his hair. “It helps me with girls. You’re the only one that doesn’t like it.”

“Guess I am the one with good taste then.” She teased, taking the towel over her head and throwing back at him. Her glasses were now all fogged up due the hot atmosphere from the bath house. She took it off for a moment so she could clean it up on the closest towel. “I thought you only used this to mask how bad you smell on missions. In case you didn’t noticed, we finished it.”

Boruto took a few steps on her direction, towering over her and placing a hand on the wall after her. It was always hard for him those situations where the only thing between them was a piece of a fabric that could be easily torn off apart. Those times when she was standing wrapped on her towel, Boruto always felt his heart running to somewhere else and it was constantly difficult to hide the power she had over him.

Even when she was so tiny and small, behind him.

“Admit you love it.” He teased, peered down at her and suddenly, Sarada forgot how breathing felt like. A drop of water from his hair fell on her cheek and it startled her, talking a step back and her back encountered the wall. She felt his eyes on her lips as she bit her bottom lip.

“Mama taught me not to lie.” Sarada said, pushing him back with both hands. Boruto tried to ignore the urge to hold and pull her closer to him. He shook his head trying to convince himself it’s not what he actually wanted to do, it was just hormones speaking. But unlike her, it seemed like his mother didn’t teach him not to lie.

“So, anxious about the ceremony tonight?” Boruto changed subjects, to think about something else than kissing his lifetime crush. Sarada breathed out in relief, eager to focus about something that wasn’t related on how angelic someone was looking wearing that towel.

“You should be, not me. It is a big birthday party for your father, after all.” Sarada turned her back on her teammate, searching for her clothes somewhere. They were so used to change on the same room, back to back, and they were always respectful towards each other. But that day, something was really off with both of them and all they wanted was to look back to have a tiny glance over the body they so desperately desired.

“Do you have any date?” Boruto sighed in anticipation, afraid of her answer. It seemed like ages since her voice filled his ears again.

“No, you silly. We arrived only today from the mission. Where would I find a date this late?” Sarada let the towel drop on the floor with a nice thud and Boruto felt his whole body getting rigid. Sighing deeply, he mirrored her action and tried to focus on putting some clothes on. He always drove his mind about things he would consider a big turn off, like his father or even his master doing it. It was one hell of a disturbing scenario, for sure.

“Do you?” Her voice cut the steamy room as a knife. For a moment, Boruto almost forgot she was in the room.

“What?” He frowned, turning a bit to look at her and completely forgetting about the fact they were changing clothes. Although, he didn’t see much, just her naked slim form dressing something.

“Do you have a date?” Sarada wasn’t ready to the answer as she rushed to dress herself. Every cell on her body knew she shouldn’t had asked about it, but her mind tried to compensate by thinking: if he asked, I could do it too, right?

“No, actually. How sad is the fact I am going alone while my younger sister is taking her boyfriend?” Boruto laughed, but Sarada didn’t feel any amusement on his voice. “A new level of pathetic.”

“Stop, you know that’s not true.” Sarada argued, now fully dressed. She turned a bit to see Boruto already looking at her. All it took was an eyebrow raised and the boy shook his head, as saying he didn’t see nothing.

“I know. Why don’t you come with me?” Boruto blurted out, following Sarada out of the room. Her hair was tied on a messy bun and as soon as she let it fall against her back, Boruto smiled. There was nothing in the world that made him feel more at ease that black curtain. His only wish was to spend one whole night next to her, as his fingers brushed it slowly. The boy already knew it smell good, it always did.

“Now, that is a whole new level of pathetic. Bring me is like bring a sister to the party.” Sarada’s heart was flipping inside her chest. Even the fact he was only asking her because he had no better options didn’t help her heart to stop beating as faster as it was.

“Well, I can’t kiss my actual sister.”

Sarada stopped abruptly, and Boruto bumped on her back. Suddenly, the both of them were too aware of the words that came out of his mouth and neither knew what to say.

“I-, I m-, I mean, it would be a little bit less pathetic than taking my sister.” Boruto tried to fix it, but Sarada’s heart was threatening to explode inside her chest.

“Fine, I’ll go with you so you’ll look a little less pathetic than you actually are.” Sarada didn’t turn her head to shoot a glance over him, she just kept walking and later, she heard the steps behind her too. All she wanted was to put a distance between them so she could analyze coldly every single word of his mouth, putting feelings aside, and, mostly, away from his alluring scent. “I’ll go with my parents, I’ll meet you there.”

“Ok.” Boruto answered, not being able to acknowledge what the hell had just happened between them.

-

Sarada knew that the look on her face was probably indecisive as to decide whether he would prefer Boruto wearing only a towel or a black tuxedo, but the inner conflict was quickly settled as soon as he grinned over her direction. Although all Uzumaki looked incredible that night, it was obvious he was the center of the attention and Sarada didn’t even questioned herself about why.

The fabric was a dark black, which kind reminded her of the color of her own eyes. Each angle was neat and outlined Boruto’s strong figure perfectly. Truth being told, Sarada always considered herself a sucker for a handsome mand in a suit, but Boruto in one? She almost felt it should be illegal.

Boruto didn’t even know how to continue to greet the guests after she arrived. That would be the first time in years they would be at a such formal gathering together. As soon as his eyes laid on her, he knew the dress was her favorite tone of red. But that wasn’t what made his heart twist a little. When she turned slightly, Boruto’s eyes caught a glimpse over her naked back, until her lower back with a fairly high slit on the left side.

He always thought Sarada had kind of an understated beauty. Perhaps it was because she was so disarmingly unaware of her prettiness, or perhaps it was her inner beauty that lit her eyes and softened her features. When she smiled, or laughed, Boruto couldn’t help but smile along, even if it was on inside. There was a shyness to her, hesitation on her body movements.

During all the ceremony, both of them tried really hard not to stare. They still didn’t have the chance to finally talk to each other, since each of their parents apparently wanted the whole world to know that they had sex and had beautiful and talented children.

So, when everything calmed down and the music started to blast around the huge saloon, Boruto felt like he couldn’t hold himself anymore. To say at least, he needed to have her attention. She was sitting at the same table at them, talking excitedly about their last mission to Mitsuki, who had been spending a lot of time training to become a medic nin, therefore, he hadn’t been participating as much as both Boruto and Sarada wanted. But they were sure happy to see their friend following his dream.

“Dance with me.” Boruto didn’t even find the guts to say hi at first. He didn’t want to waist any time, and sure he was already preparing himself in case she declined his request, which, for him, there was a huge chance of happening.

But it didn’t.

If he didn’t even bother to greet her, she wouldn’t bother herself to actually verbalize a yes. She had been waiting almost the entire night to finally be around him, and she wasn’t even close to let this chance go. Not when she was pretty aware of the number of girls who was staring at him like he was his prey or something.

The song was a slow one and it took some time until both of them realized none had ever danced like that before. So, using all their knowledge based in books – Sarada’s case – and movies – Boruto’s case when Himawari made him watch romantic films with her -, Sarada wrapped her arms around his neck, as he did the same with her waist, worried to keep a safe distance from another part of her body.

At first, he leaded, guiding Sarada through the steps. It wasn’t much until she synchronized to his rhythm, after all, they were already used to each other’s timing. Although, it was quite a simple swaying back and forth. They stayed like that for a few minutes, until Sarada decided to press herself a little bit closer to him, their bodies keeping the minimum distance possible, and that was when she realized one thing.

“You’re not using your cologne.” She peered up, her eyebrows arched in curiosity. There was not a day that Boruto didn’t use it during their trip mission.

The band switched to a faster tune, but Sarada and Boruto stayed in their slow dancing. At that point, they weren’t even aware of the surroundings anymore. Sarada’s lips were curled in a soft, content smile and it made Boruto’s heart leaped, while his mind was filled with the utterly selfish thoughts and impulses when he looked at her lips.

He cleared his throat. “I knew it was a fancy ball so I thought about asking you to dance and I didn’t want to bother your sensitive nose with my scent.” He teased with a dramatic eye roll, which just caused to her smile grow bigger.

“I kinda miss it.” She confessed, earning a deadly glare from Boruto in response. Sarada hid her face on his suit, carefully not to stain it with her red lipstick as he shook his head, feeling upset.

“Really? You’re annoying.” Boruto responded quietly. “But I must admit, without it just feels like I am naked.”

Sarada felt the exactly moment her cheeks tinted red. She was way too close to Boruto to start talking about nakedness. Moments on the bath house came back to her mind, the way tiny beads of water rolled so smoothly down his skin, almost as if screaming they could touch his bare skin and Sarada couldn’t.

“Are you blushing?” He stared at her, noticing how big her eyes were, the glittering black that camouflaged her pupils and it almost felt like he was seeing her for the first time.

“What? No!” The blush across her face deepened.  “We are dancing and it’s really hot in here.”

“You are blushing.” He narrowed his eyes at her, his voice changing to a mock shocked tone. “Did I just make the stoic, hardcore, badass Sarada Uchiha to blush?”

“It’s just the cold.” She was aware of the shyness on her own voice, and no matter how hard she tried, she could not rid it. Which, if she thought about it, it was a confirmation itself.

“I thought you said it was hot in here.” Boruto actually had the audacity to smirk at her red embarrassed face and Sarada stepped purposefully on his foot as he had led back into the step pattern.

“You-“ Boruto started as the girl giggled. She opened her mouth to say something when a high excited voice cut her off.

“So, it seems the Uchiha girl bent you the whole night. Is that right?”

A red head girl appeared, wearing a black tiny dress. The girl was absolutely gorgeous and Sarada felt the impulse to hide under a rock. She had never seen her before, but a quickly glance over Boruto’s face told her what she needed to know.

“Amira. It’s been a while.” Boruto greeted, separating himself from Sarada and stretching a hand to greet her.

“It has, indeed. You haven’t changed a bit since that night.” She smiled smugly to him and Sarada felt like someone was stabbing her direct to her heart. “Maybe can I have the honor to dance with the Hokage’s son?”

Both Sarada and Boruto instinctively frowned at the title, but the girl didn’t seem to care. Wrapping both arms around Boruto’s neck, just like Sarada was doing a few seconds ago, she started to move with him, one hand holding his chin, obliging him to keep staring at her. Sarada sighed and left the dancefloor, found her way to her table.

The only person sitting there was her father, taking little sips on whatever, he was drinking that night. His eyes were glued on the dancefloor where Boruto was dancing with the red head.

“You know, if your mother gave someone that much attention on our date, I’d probably hunt the poor guy down.” He stated as soon Sarada sat next to him, her eyes following where he was staring at. It took some time before it actually hit her what he meant, her eyes widening.

“No, no, no. You got it wrong, dad. We-“ Sarada swallowed hard before continuing. “We have never been on a date before.”

Sasuke took one more sip of his drink. “I see, so first date and he is giving other girls undivided attention.”

“It’s not a date, dad!” She responded harshly, glaring coldly though her blush was still present. The girl turned her head so rapidly, her glasses almost fell off her face. Sasuke glared right back at her, eyes narrowed into curiosity slits.

Sasuke stared at his daughter, face emotionless, as usual. He knew it was a trace from him Sarada wished she had inherited, but he would always prefer not. For him, it was just beautiful how she could portrait every feeling inside her on her eyes, a pair that looked so much like his, and yet, so different. When he spoke, however, his voice almost revealed the many emotions swirling within him at that moment.

“Sorry, I must have misread something between the endless exchanging glances and the tomatoes cheeks as you were dancing.” Sasuke deadpanned, a smirk playing on his lips as her daughter became whiter than usual.

“He is annoying, dad. There was no way I would fall for someone so dumb, pathetic, hot tempered like him.” She rested her body against the chair, not after glancing the dancefloor again. The girl was whispering something on Boruto’s ear and Sarada had to hold the urge to throw her dad’s cup on the girl’s head.

“Yeah, I just used to tell someone she was annoying too.” He smiled, looking at his child. It didn’t matter if she was eight, twelve, eighteen or sixty. She would always be his little girl.

“Please, don’t say mom.” Sarada rolled her eyes, but a smile blossomed on her lips.

“Basically, my advice is: Go for it.” Sasuke instructed, making Sarada’s jaw fall to the ground.

Sarada narrowed her eyes at her father. “I thought dads in general weren’t so much found of their daughters dating.”

“There is nothing I am more afraid of, believe me.” Sasuke leaned in, pouring her a glass of water. “But it’s going to happen someday and, don’t tell anyone I said that, Boruto isn’t that bad. Although I would rather your type was smart guys, just like Shikamaru’s son.”

Sarada just couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Her laugh was so loud, it actually made everyone around to turn their heads at their direction, Boruto included. The blond guy felt his heart in his throat. All he wanted was to ditch this girl in front of him and run towards the raven-haired girl and hug her so tight. He sighed, and continued to dance until the music was over.

“Sorry to be a disappointment, dad.” She smiled wickedly.

“Don’t worry, you are not. At least, not if you finally get your ass from this chair and go after the happiness you deserve.” Sasuke shrugged and once again, Sarada couldn’t possibly believe her father, her jealousy and possessive father, was telling her to open herself to Boruto.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been this scared of you than this moment. Can’t wait to tell mom all of this.” Sarada teased, getting up from her chair.

“If you tell Sakura or Naruto, I will strongly deny it.” Sasuke took another sip, his eyes held a silver of amusement.

“Tell Sakura what?” Sakura appeared behind Sasuke, putting one hand on his shoulder as Sasuke’s eyebrow arched to his daughter, who only laughed at her parents.

Sarada came closer to her mother, smiling. “I’ll tell you next time.” She told her, poking her forehead with her index and middle fingers as Sakura shook her head, watching as her daughter walking towards the dance floor.

“She is too much of your daughter for her own good.” Sakura stated, stealing a sip from Sasuke’s cup.

“Funny, I was thinking the same thing, but about you.” Sasuke grinned at his wife, sighing as his heart shrink inside his chest.

“I heard what you told her, by the way.” She passed her fingers through her husband’s dark locks.

“She deserves to find happiness. Way faster than I did. That’s all I want for her, and if it means dating a blond moron,” Sasuke took a deep breath. “Okay, then. Our blond moron turned out just fine. I have faith on Boruto too.”

Since the loud laugh, Boruto wasn’t able to take his eyes away from Sarada. So, the moment she got up, told her parents something and came to his direction, he found himself very anxious. He was already loosened up his grip on the red head dancing with him – not that his grip on her was at any time tight – when Sarada stopped next to them.

“Who is renting who?” Sarada teased, which only made the girl angrier. “If you excuse me, I am stealing my teammate back. He needs to finish his speech for his father.”

“Speech?” Boruto asked in return as Sarada arched her eyebrows. “Right. My speech. Sarada is the only one who can help me with it. I talk to you later, bye Amira.”

Boruto grabbed Sarada’s hand and pulled her to some big door that led to outside the saloon. The whole place was decorated with different types of trees, and for the first time of the night, he let himself breath.

“You almost seemed you didn’t enjoy the girl’s companion.” Sarada commented, sitting on a rock bench under a tree.

“You almost seem jealous.” Boruto got closer to her, standing right in front of her and peered down. “If makes you feel better, I would rather to dance with you than anyone in this place. That girl stepped on my foot so many times I though I would leave this place without one limb missing.” The slit on Sarada’s dress left out one of her legs, and Boruto wondered if her skin was as soft as it looked like.

“Where did you meet her?” Sarada questioned him, before she could stop herself from doing so.

“Don’t remember, actually.” Boruto glanced away and Sarada knew he was lying.

“Fine, if you would rather lie to me, you can as well as go back to-“

Boruto leaned forward and planted his lips firmly on his. They felt exactly like he had imagined: soft and warm. He explored the contours on her face with his fingers, reveling in sensations that were overriding his senses. Nothing in his entire life felt so damn right.

Sarada was caught completely off guard. It was like she was vaguely aware of Boruto kissing her. She didn’t know if it was real or a dream, but she didn’t want that moment to end. At some point, she could also smell his cologne scent right beneath her nostrils and she realized it wasn’t something on him. His scent had impregnated on her.

Sarada pulled away so that her lips barely brushed Boruto’s as she spoke. “Not bad for this whole level of pathetic, huh?”

Boruto giggled lightly against her lips. “And you thought it would be the same thing as bringing my sister.”

“Oi, I am still your best friend, show me more respect.” She punched him lightly, but Boruto grabbed her waist with both hands, pressing her hard against his body. “I can easily walk away from you.”

“Give me five minutes until I wear my cologne, and you would never be able to walk away again.” Boruto teased, turning his head to kiss Sarada’s jaw. The girl whimpered when he pressed a chaste kiss to the soft spot below her ear.

Somehow, she knew if one day they had a hot make out session while he was using that fucking perfume, she wouldn’t be able to hold herself. Not even a little bit.

 a/n 

in case you are reading it and be like omg there are so many mistakes here just know i didn’t revise it. also this time i changed up things a little bit and instead of making bad jealous possessive father! sasuke, i went to the good parent that want to see his daughter happy! sasuke. honestly i like both but i do like changing things a bit in my stories. i am sorry about how big this turned out.

i also wanted to stay i am having a major writer’s block and there’s some requests that i just can’t think about anything to write and it makes me very upset because i really like being creative towards what you guys ask me.

hope you guys like this one!

[asiandramastoke]

Drama Rating: 9.5/10

Jotaro is a young man who finds himself at loss after losing his job and breaking up with his girl friend. In a desperate move to make something out of his life and find employment, he decided to move from Tokyo City to a small province in Kochi to join the “Revitalization Group” of the Shimanto River. In this place, he meets several people who becomes his friends and shares the same sentiments that he has in life.

What makes Osozaki no Himawari such a special drama is how it portrayed all these types of characters and slowly peeled off their facade to show the kind of person they really are… in a good way.

The story line is very simple, a guy named Jotaro came to a province as a temp worker and in this process he gets to learn and find more about himself then touch the lives of the people around him. The people he meets along the way has their own quirks, but upon watching the episode further, these people show some similarities specially in the way they thought about each other, which made it more interesting. One person envied the other for having what they don’t have but at the same time, that same person is thinking of the exact same thing of the other.

The characters in this drama were portrayed so well that it left me deep impressions on each actor. I am already a fan of Ikuta Toma so it wasn’t much of a surprise to see him back into a bubbly character such as Jotaro. Kiritani Kenta, I’ve seen this guy in the movie Solanin and Beck, he definitely has that gangster look and he can easily play that kind of character, but his character in this drama, Junichi – I would have to say that he definitely tried hard to portray a guy who can be really gentle and vulnerable despite his looks and he pulled it off brilliantly. Maki Yoko as Nikaido is one of the characters that really stuck in my head, not only is she pretty but her voice… it resonates in my ears and I love hearing her talk. I feel that she’s really a good actress despite the fact that this is the first drama I’ve seen her in. Her chemistry with Toma was great and I really love the scenes in which they start their phone conversation like this even though they already know who’s at the other end of the line:

Jotaro: Ore, ore. (It’s me, me.)

Kahori: Ore, ore Tada re? (Who’s me, me?)

I also like the message the drama is sending its viewers, there is no contentment until you’ve experienced something without regrets. Finding ones contentment and happiness depends on the individual, people all get to the point when they’ve lived their lives the same way for so long, think about the past and the choices they made then eventually regret those choices and resent the current situation they are in. Another thing that makes this drama more meaningful for me is that the age of the characters are basically the same as mine, so I could relate so well to it.

The OST was well incorporated to the drama while the opening song was really catchy and very much enjoyable to watch specially when the main characters lip sync along with the song. Because of that, I don’t get tired of listening and watching the intro of this drama. I will also surely re-watch this drama as it has been marked as something dear to my heart.

Recommending it to those who are into a dramas that depicts life and reality, those who are at a cross road and for those who just want to watch something good, light and meaningful.

PHOTOS ARE NOT MINE. CREDITS TO THE OWNER.

Osozaki no Himawari (Japanese Drama 2012) Drama Rating: 9.5/10 Jotaro is a young man who finds himself at loss after losing his job and breaking up with his girl friend.

[bangdreaming]

Bandori Customer Questionnaire

We have been given another questionnaire to fill in! You can either access it via in the in-game news through this button:

Or click here! Remember to fill it out, as you’ll be able to suggest more cover songs! Also, the questions are slightly different from the last survey, so you might want to check out our translations if you’re unsure about some parts!

Translations for the questions under the cut!

Question 1: What’s your player ID? (If it’s filled automatically, you can leave it as is.)

Question 2: Who’s your favorite band?

Question 3: Who’s your second favorite band?

Question 4: Who are your favorite characters, up to three people?

Kasumi

Tae

Rimi

Saaya

Arisa

Ran

Moca

Himari

Tomoe

Tsugumi

Aya

Hina

Chisato

Maya

Eve

Yukina

Sayo

Lisa

Ako

Rinko

Kokoro

Kaoru

Hagumi

Kanon

Misaki

None in particular.

Question 5: What difficulty is the most enjoyable in the game?

Question 6: What cover songs made you want to play Bandori or which ones you like to play the most?

Sorairo Days

Alchemy

Hikaru Nara

Little Busters!

Seikai wa Hitotsu! Janai!!

Tentai Kansoku

God knows…

only my railgun

Senbonzakura

Kimi Janakya Dame Mitai

Melancholic

GLAMOROUS SKY

DAYS

Karma

Butter-Fly

Don’t say “lazy”

great escape

Asu no Yozora Shoukaihan

READY STEADY GO

Redo

Pride Kakumei

Imagination

secret base ~Kimi ga Kureta Mono~

Dream Parade

Sobakasu

MOON PRIDE

Fuwa Fuwa Time

Hanamaru Pippi wa Yoiko Dake

Sekai wa Koi ni Ochiteiru

Happy Synthesizer

SAKURA Skip

Miku Miku ni Shite Ageru

Kimagure Romantic

Fantastic future

Soul Refrain

Hacking to the Gate

ETERNAL BLAZE

Guren no Yumiya

The Everlasting Guilty Crown

Red fraction

Shin Ai

A Cruel Angel’s Thesis

This game

Believe in my existence

Six Trillion Years and Overnight Story

Sugar Song to Bitter Step

1, 2 Fanclub

Silhouette

Happy Summer Wedding

Himawari no Yakusoku

Romeo

Koi wa Chaos no Shimobe Nari

Dragon Night

fantastic dreamer

Hare Hare Yukai

Taiyou wa Iwaku Moeyo Chaos

None in particular.

Question 7: Please tell us any songs you’d like us to cover in the future. (Multiple suggestions are okay.)

Question 8: Please tell us any artists you’d like us to cover in the future. (Multiple suggestions are okay.)

Question 9: Please tell us any content, animation, or game you want us to collaborate with in the future. (Multiple suggestions are okay.)

Question 10: Please tell us up to 3 event stories that you liked.

Sakura Blooming Party!

Connecting Thoughts, Incomplete Song

Happy Phantom Thief and the Luxury Cruise 

Rimi’s Gift of Song

Searching for Stars

As Evening Clears

Run Away Rabbits!

Past Aspirations & Pastel Futures

The Impromptu Wedding Dress

Don’t leave me, Lisa!!!!

Wish Upon a Tanzaku

Tomoe SOS! Ako’s Grand Nursing Operation

When the Flowers Bloom

Happy Summer Vacation!

Overlapping Beats: The Fireworks Festival

The 6th Member of Afterglow

The Name of the Rose that Blooms in Eden

Hello, My Happy World

Pasupare Expedition: Idol Conquerors of a Deserted Island

In My Heart, It’s Always Halloween!

Umbrella for the Sudden Autumn Rain

The Teary Smile Anchor

Mismatched!? Silly Sweets Classroom 

Welcome to Eve’s Home Party

Someday, My Words Will Reach You ~Lisa’s Lyrics~

HAPPY Poppin’ Xmas

Azure, Sparkle Like a Star

Little Smile Step

New Year, Foreboding Fortune

FUN! FUN! CiRCLING FIVESTAR!

Neo Fantasy Online -The Journey-

Dotabata Happy Valentine

My First Winter Sports!?

What a Wonderful World!

A White Day Musical Basked in a Fleeting Fragrance

Backstage Pass

Dash! A Journey in the Evening Shadows

Freshly Blooming Largo

My Spirit Won’t Yield, Burning Bushido

Fair and Square! Fluffy Character Championship

Double Rainbow

Girls Anthology

Neo-Aspect

Beatin’ in the Rain

The Cursed Well and the School’s Ghost

Once More Luminous

On Sunday, We Got Separated at the Park

None in Particular

Question 11: Please tell us up to 3 costume designs, and event gachas that you liked. (The bolded terms are gacha names for the respective events.)

Sakura Blooming Party! (Hanasakigawa’s Sakura)

Connecting Thoughts, Incomplete Song (A Songstress Awakens)

Happy Phantom Thief and the Luxury Cruise (Detective Kokoro)

Rimi’s Gift of Song (Presents for You)

Searching for Stars (Starlight Journey)

As Evening Clears (Memories of Scarlet Skies)

Run Away Rabbits! (Tea Time in Wonderland)

Past Aspirations & Pastel Futures (White Beginnings)

The Impromptu Wedding Dress (Wedding Day)

Don’t leave me, Lisa!!!! (Elegant Roses)

Wish Upon a Tanzaku (Twinkling Milky Way)

Tomoe SOS! Ako’s Grand Nursing Operation (Rockin’ Nurse)

When the Flowers Bloom (Flowers and Butterflies)

Happy Summer Vacation! (Ocean-blue Summer Skies)

Overlapping Beats: The Fireworks Festival (Kira Kira! Starmine)

The 6th Member of Afterglow (Haunted High Schooooool!!!!!)

The Name of the Rose that Blooms in Eden (Sonata of Blue & Crimson)

Hello, My Happy World (MISAKI in da house!!!)

Pasupare Expedition: Idol Conquerors of a Deserted Island (Doki Doki!? Idol Survivor)

In My Heart, It’s Always Halloween! (One Night Magic)

Umbrella for the Sudden Autumn Rain (Rainy Blue Rose)

The Teary Smile Anchor (Cheerful! Sports Festival)

Mismatched!? Silly Sweets Classroom (Sweet Suite)

Welcome to Eve’s Home Party (Natural Wind)

Someday, My Words Will Reach You ~Lisa’s Lyrics~ (The Sunset’s Smiling Star)

HAPPY Poppin’ Xmas (Bright Chrismas)

Azure, Sparkle Like a Star (Frosty Twinkle Blue)

Little Smile Step (Polar Aurora)

New Year, Foreboding Fortune (Sunrise of Youthfulness)

FUN! FUN! CiRCLING FIVESTAR! (Shining Dream Stage)

Neo Fantasy Online -The Journey- (Our Party’s Journey)

Dotabata Happy Valentine (Heart-rending Chocolate)

My First Winter Sports!? (White Snow Fairy)

What a Wonderful World! (Pastel＊Bloom Girls)

A White Day Musical Basked in a Fleeting Fragrance (The Beauty of a Noble White)

Backstage Pass (GIRLS BAND LIFE!)

Dash! A Journey in the Evening Shadows (Rockin' Western Girl)

Freshly Blooming Largo (~Newly Composed Score~ Melodious)

My Spirit Won’t Yield, Burning Bushido (Samurai Hearts for Troubled Times)

Fair and Square! Fluffy Character Championship (Fuwa Fuwa Gao! Happy Monster)

Double Rainbow (Sparkling Momentary Bridge)

Girls Anthology (Go Go Stoooooria!)

Neo-Aspect (Melodious Gears)

Beatin’ in the Rain (Roaring Rimshot)

The Cursed Well and the School’s Ghost (Hard-Boiled Detective)

Once More Luminous (Colorful Radiant Road)

On Sunday, We Got Separated at the Park (Tanabata Nostalgia)

None in Particular

Question 12: Please tell us any additional features you would like to be added or existing features you would like improved.

Question 13: What is your age?

Question 14: What’s your gender?

Male

Female

Question 15: What is your occupation?

Civil servant

Management / Company Executive

Employee

Self Employed / Freelance

Part-Time Job

Housewife / Husband

Student

Unemployed

Others

Question 16: Please tell us about your business field.

None in particular. (Students, etc.)

Manufacturing (Machinery / Electric)

Manufacturing (Material / Chemical / Food / Other)

General Trading Company / Specialized Trading Company

Medical

Finance

Construction / Real Estate

Consulting / Research / Professional Office

Personnel Service / Call Center

Internet / Advertising / Media

Retail

Food Service

Transportation / Logistics

Communication (Carrier, etc.)

Energy (Electric, gas, etc.)

Travel / Accommodation / Leisure

Security / Cleaning

Barber / Beauty / Esthetics

Education

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries / Minig

Public Corporations / Government Agencies

Other

Question 17: Please tell us where you live.

Last option is “Overseas / Other.”

Question 18: How did you first hear about GBP?

From friends / acquaintances

SNS (Twitter, Facebook, etc.)

TVCM (Iitoyo Marie ver.)

WEBCM (HIKAKIN x Fischers’ ver.)

WEBCM (Iitoyo Marie x Fischers’ ver.)

WEBCM (Iitoyo Marie x Hatsune Miku ver.)

CM (aside from the mentioned ones)

Internet Advertisements

Magazine / Web Articles

Transport Advertisement / Other Advertisement

Bandori! Live

Bandori! Anime

Bandori! Short Anime

App Store / Google Play

Other

Question 19: Please tell us why you started playing Bandori. (Multiple choices are okay.)

Bandori’s Illustrations and Graphics

Because I like rhythm games in general

Was already a fan of the Bandori! anime

I liked the Original songs

I was able to play the cover songs that I knew in the game

The game gives out a vibe that it would be fun even if I didn’t make in-game purchases.

I was attracted by the story

Voice Actors that I like voiced characters in the game

Nothing in particular (I don’t remember)

Other

Question 20: Please tell us the games you usually play.

Question 21: Please tell us the average amount of money you spend on games in a month.

I don’t spend money.

Less than 1,000 yen.

1,000 ~ 5,000 yen.

5,000 ~ 10,000 yen.

10,000 ~ 50,000 yen.

More than 50,000 yen.

Question 22: Please tell us how you like to spend your free time. (Multiple choices are okay.)

Games / Manga / Anime / Internet

Live / Event

Reading / Movies

Music / Musical Instruments / Photography / Creative Activity

Exercise / Sports

Car / Motorcycle

Gambling

Television

Shopping

Cooking / Handicraft / Sewing

Spending Time with Friends, Family, or Partners

Traveling / Going Out

Question 23: Please tell us any media platforms that you regularly use. (Multiple choices are okay.)

TV

YouTube

Twitter

Instagram

Summary Sites

Game Walkthrough Sites

Nico Nico Douga

Facebook

AbemaTV

Pixiv

None in particular

Other

Question 24: Finally, if you have comments or requests for us or a message for the management team, please feel free to write it down.

[sakurauchiha2018]

A Little Faith

Hey guys! Sorry that this is late...life gets in the way sometimes and things have been rough. Hopefully I can get the next update soon. 

Chapter 1 , Chapter 2 , Chapter 3, Chapter 4 

My stomach hurts from laughing and there’s a slight haze in the room. We barely made it through the first half of the movie before the boys decided to start playing games. Cho-Cho, Hima and I are left sitting on the couches watching them be idiots. Boruto and Inojin are currently trying to complete a game of pool without losing interest. My eyes turn back to Himawari who seems to be keeping a close eye on Inojin.

“You know Hima, a picture lasts longer.” I snicker before taking another sip of my drink, a tingling feeling goes down my throat and my lips turn in a scowl. Drinking has never been I forte but tonight I decided to join in on the fun. Mama is probably going to scold me once she smells it, oh well. A blush spreads on her face before she narrows her eyes at me.

“I could say the same Sara! The way you look at my brother is too cute.” I cringe at the childish nickname, it’s been so long since someone’s called me that. My hand waves in front of my face and I can’t help but feel flustered by her statement. Ever since Monday I’ve been a little more flustered talking about Boruto. He hasn’t said those three words since then. Does he regret saying it? My eyes meet Hima’s again and I can see a fire and curiosity burning in those blue orbs. She’s definitely grown more bold and confident in college.

Cho-Cho jumps beside me and so does Hima. They both lean in close, my facial expression has given me away to these two. Sighing I take another gulp of my drink trying to wash away whatever evidence of my embarrassment is there.

“So what’s going on with you and Boruto? You two seem more drawn to each other than normal.” Cho-Cho questions as she leans even closer to me. She’s always been a hopeless romantic, always watching everyone around her and noticing things the normal person wouldn’t. Truth be told I haven’t noticed a change between us physically.

“Yeah, big brother couldn’t keep his eyes off of you during the movie. Even now he can’t.” The tips of my ears feel red hot and I have to keep myself from turning around. Maybe I should tell them? I haven’t talked to anyone about it. Sighing I relax into the couch and stare into the red cup I’m holding.

“There’s something. Just keep your voices down when I tell you.” I whisper so the boys behind us don’t over hear. We’ve tried to be like my parents when it comes to personal stuff.

“Did you two, ya know?” Cho-Cho wiggles her brows at me and instantly my face is red. Of course she would take it that far.

“What? No! That’s gross Cho-Cho. Boruto….he told me he loves me.” The last two words come out as a whisper, almost too low for their ears to hear. Hima’s arms are wrapped tightly around me and Cho-Cho does the same.

“About time! Sometimes I feel like Big Brother is just a big idiot.” That makes two of us Hima. Smiling I wiggle free from their hold and turn all attention back to the youngest one here.

“Since I told you that, what’s going on with you and Inojin?” Now it’s my turn to wiggle my brows and question her. It’s obvious that she has a crush on him, she has for a long time now. Blue eyes look back towards the group of loudmouths and then back to us, a huge smile spread on her face.

“He’s been coming to see me on the weekends. Oh and we went on a date a few weeks ago.” Her thumbs pick at the edge of her shorts and the look in her eyes makes my body warm. It’s the same look I see when Mama talks about Papa and when Uncle Naruto talks about Aunt Hinata. Inojin has always been protective of Himawari. Whenever she was having a rough day he would make sure to try and cheer her up. It makes sense that they’d be great together.

“Just don’t tell Big Brother. I don’t want to tell them until it’s an official thing.”

“No worries Himawari! Your secret is safe with us.” Cho-Cho grins widely at her before we’re all pulled up from the couch. Boruto’s cheeks are slightly red from either drinking or yelling, not sure which one. His arm wraps around my waist and pulls me over to the pool table. Instead of being forced to play, Boruto is holding onto me tightly as the others team up for a game. Normally I would be uncomfortable with this type of affection but these are our closest friend so it’s fine. His chin rests on the top of my head and we both watch the others begin their game.

“What were you three talking about?” His hushed voice only reaches my ears and I simply shrug my shoulders as a response. Inojin and Himawari are trying their best to not make things obvious but the more I watch them the more I see their real connection. My phone vibrates in my pocket and I fish it out from between us, pinching the blonde’s side before the device comes to eye level.

‘Mitsuki- I should be there soon. Date night ran over.’

“Who’s he dating?” And here I thought they were best friends.

“Remember our class rep senior year?”

“Really? Sumire? Never thought that would happen.” I can understand what he means though. Back in our Freshman year she thought Boruto was the coolest guy in class and wanted to get closer to him. After watching him closer and realizing that Boruto can be an immature prankster she changed her mind. That’s when Mitsuki stepped in, their personalities mesh well together.

“That’s because you liked the attention she gave you.”

Before he could argue Shikadai throws down his stick in defeat, that was quick.

“How do you two always beat us?” Cho-Cho whines before plopping down on the floor.

“Because Inojin knows all of your moves.” I try to keep the words a whisper but it seems that they don’t like very much as eyes lock on to me. Waving my hands in front of my face as a defense I blush crimson red and try to hide. A few laughs came from them before the walk over to the main event.

“Let’s have a tournament!” Boruto shouts before I’m unwrapped from his arms. A slight huff of annoyance comes out as the others set up a chart, knowing well enough that I won’t play. Honestly it’s too easy of a game for me. It’s a pattern that repeats itself over and over again. Too boring and predictable for me.

The door clicks open and in walks in Mitsuki with a huge grin on his face. Walking over to him I point at the others.

“You’ll end up playing.”

“I know. You’ve never been one for that game. Is Mrs. Sakura home?”

“No. My parents went out for the night.”

“Well then let’s have some fun.” He smiles widely and instantly joins the party. I lean over on the pool table watching the closely as my hand rubs against the soft felt. My phone vibrates again and I look down confused by the message.

‘Unknown- Watch your back.’

My brows furrow and my stomach twists from the threat. It could be just a harmless prank by one of my other friends or just bored teenagers. Maybe I should show this to Uncle Itachi on Monday. Swiping the screen so it disappears all of my attention is focused on the green felt. The feeling in my stomach doesn’t fade and I can feel my chest tighten. Monday morning I’m going straight to my uncle and figuring out what’s going on, I can’t tell my parents because they have enough on their plate.

Taking the cue ball in my hand, I push it slightly towards the pocket. With a soft clank it tips over the edge. My eyes lock onto to the backs of the people precious to me. Hopefully this text was an empty threat and nothing more because if it’s not then I will have to protect all of them too. Cho-Cho comes up to me waving a cup underneath my nose, the strong scent of alcohol causes me to snarl. This must be mine since she’s already drinking from another, there’s no point in denying the drink. The strong mixture burns as it runs down my throat but with each drink the worries disappear into the back of my mind and eventually it is gone.

My cheeks burn and Cho-Cho gives me a wide, bright smile. A flashback of when we were younger and carefree comes to the front of my mind and I instinctively wrap my arms around her neck. Throughout my childhood she was there if I ever needed her and vice versa.

“Okay, okay. Geez you’re an affectionate drunk.” She groans in my ear but doesn’t push me away. The laughter of our friends breaks me from our hold and I move over to the group with a slight skip in my step. Boruto is standing behind the dance pads and I wrap my arms around his waist, letting my cheek rest on his back. The scent of fresh rain and grass makes its way to my nose and my body relaxes even more into his. A chuckle vibrates through him making my head move away so he can spin in my arms. Crystal blue eyes stare straight at me, a flush covering his cheeks as well. It seems that Cho-Cho has made everyone one of her signature drinks. Even in my intoxicated state I can’t help but stare at him like I did earlier in my room. One of the many things that I love about him is his eyes, they always seem to calm me when it’s been a rough day. They carry a shine to them that makes your while body relax from one look. It’s like staring into a crystal clear lake, all of your worries get washed away for just a moment.

Someone clears their throat breaking my concentration, my eyes meet with Hima’s and instantly I feel my face turn red hot. Looks like our moment has been broken as my arms drop. My legs are carrying me on their own and without thinking I find myself on the dance pad beside Inojin. Our eyes meet and the signature Uchiha smirk plasters on my face.

“You sure you want to play?” His voice is cocky but I just shrug my shoulders.

“Sarada you can do this!” Hima and Cho-Cho cheers from behind us as the screen starts the song. My eyes watch the pattern form and everything else moves on its own. A wide smile spreads on my face as I let my feet do the work and my brain takes a break from over thinking. The cheers of my friends don’t even register until the song is over, the winner sign flashing over my name.

“No way! I thought you hated this game?” Shikadai yells as I’m stepping down, one round was more than enough for me.

“It’s too easy of a game honestly.” My hands reach for my cup again knowing that my female best friend has refilled all of them. Two more take the game over and I close my eyes to catch my break. Honestly who invented a video game where you actually have to exercise in order to play? Only my friends would mix that with strong alcohol. Reopening my eyes, I let my breathing even out before the room is filled with laughter. Our ears don’t even register the door open as Boruto and Hima are dancing.

“Sarada!” The cup almost falls from my hands, bright green eyes clash against mine but I can see that there’s no anger in them. My mother’s cheeks are bright red as well, even my father has a slight pink tint to his cheeks. It seems date night was a success! Mama pulls me into a death grip causing us to almost tumble into the floor. Her eyes glance up to see the siblings playing on the pads.

“Sasuke-kun! I wanna play!!” The childish side of my mother begin to break through. Papa’s head shakes for a moment before a huge sigh escapes his lips, we all know that there’s no way he can tell her no. As they finished their song, my parents make their way over to the pads and I wrap around Boruto again.

For a moment the façade that my father puts on breaks away and he smiles over at my mother as they play. Their eyes meet during some of the game and a few laughs are shared between them. This is a side that not many get to see, I’ve only seen it a few times myself. All of my friends are in awe for the moment knowing that the song is coming to an end. The winner sign flashed over Mama’s name and she squealed in victory. A yawn escapes my mouth before a cough follows behind it, at least the others are still focused on my parents. Looking at the screen of my phone with blurry eyes I notice that it’s past midnight, my bed is calling my name. Mama walks over to me again and wraps an arm around me, her lips close to my ear.

“Everyone stays the night.” Her face backs away and those pink brows wiggle just a little from her words. My cheeks instantly burn as I realize what she’s insinuating. Papa looks at us both closely before ushering my mother from the room. There are times when my mother can be completely childish but responsible at the same time.

“Mama said that everyone needs to stay the night.”

“Sleep over at the Uchiha’s! It’s been forever.” Cho-Cho shouts as she runs down the hallway to the spare rooms. The boys follow closely behind her except for Boruto. Him and Himawari seem to be having a deep conversation by the looks on their faces. Almost mirroring the face I had earlier on the couch. I don’t know whether to walk over to their conversation or leave them be. My body starts to move on its own out of the door and begin the semi long walk towards my bedroom, but as soon as I’m through the threshold a warm hand rests on my wrist. Without looking I know it’s my guy holding onto me. I lead the way to the safety of my room, not caring what my father will think tomorrow. All I want is to curl under the warmth of my blanket with Boruto.

So that’s what I do. I quickly duck into the closet to strip off my clothing and replace it with a simple pair of shorts and t-shirt. When I come back I see Boruto has taken off most of clothing and lays in the bed waiting for me. Tucking myself against him, I feel his heart hammering against my back. Whatever they talked about must’ve been important since he’s still thinking about it. His words from earlier ring in my mind.

“What were you two talking about?” A smirk forms on my sleepy face. His head shakes no just like I did earlier. Huffing I turn in his arms and place a small kiss on the center of his chest.

“Later Sarada. You need to sleep.” Circles are lazily drawn on my back in a soothing rhythm. We’ve only ever shared a bed together twice before this and each time we never touched like this. Too afraid that our parents would catch us and be angry, but honestly I don’t care anymore. Taking in another deep breath I feel his hold on me tighten before my eyes close firmly.

Just as the darkness takes me under I feel a pair of warm lips pressed against my forehead. Warmth spreads through my whole body, each muscle relaxes and I lean closer into his chest. My nose is almost smashed completely flat but not to where it’s uncomfortable.

“Good night Sarada.” His voice is soft and before long a small snore fills my ears. Smiling I just nod and let my exhaustion take over.

I just want to thank @kairi-chan for helping me stay motivated. You truly are amazing! Here soon my ask box will be empty as well 😊

[natsthinkitythinkthinkthonk]

Top Ten Favourite Female Seiyuu

My first one didn’t do a whole lot of justice, so I decided to have another go at it! Here we go! Time to edit this up!

I notice that I didn’t include as many female seiyuu in my honourable mentions, but that’s because I had an easier time choosing here! I kind of knew what voices I liked from the beginning. I also don’t like the really high pitched annoying characters sometimes (with exceptions), so that was taken into consideration.

Some honourable mentions that I didn’t get the chance to mention were: Yuu Kobayashi, Ami Koshimizu, Chiwa Saito, Marina Inoue, Mai Nakahara, and Mamiko Noto. I love their voices and their roles, but I haven’t watched a whole lot of them either in anime or singing. I also seem to remember seiyuu more from their characters, and it’s a real shame that there aren’t as many female anime characters that are as well developed as their male counterparts which is why I don’t remember their characters as often. But most of it is just because I haven’t watched their major work yet.

Honourable Mentions:

Sakura Ayane

I just wanted to give a shout out to her because her performance of Uraraka is amazing, and she really nails her positive personality. She plays a range of other characters (sadly I haven’t watched most of them). I’ve been impressed by her other characters as well. Niwatori in Juuni Taisen has such an innocent personality at first, and even though it wasn’t a very good anime, she gave this character a lot of life despite being a character with only one episode of development. Haru in Nisekoi was the annoying little sister nobody wanted, but I’m proud of the fact that she makes me hate some characters that she plays because I think that’s the point most of the time. Suzuka from Tokyo Ravens is another example of this. That doesn’t mean she doesn’t have range though. Her role as Ryouko in Tsurezure Children surprised me. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh6QDBvTn34 Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpV6YFq6SrU Bonus: https://youtu.be/DRUzKPD68W0

Aoi Yuuki

Range. Just range. I can’t tell it’s her ever. Just never. I originally knew her for voicing Tsuyu from My Hero Academia, but after searching her up, I realized her range. Even though I didn’t watch most of the anime she has done, just clips of it can give you the biggest shock of a lifetime. I didn’t realize she was Kayo from Erased, Madoka from Madoka Magica, Tatsumaki from One Punch Man, Diane from The Seven Deadly Sins, and Lulu in League of Legends. She apparently also games. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7pnmeV3MD0 Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1C4bmNIWyA

Aya Hirano

(I couldn’t find a gif of her, but have a Haruhi)

Okay, so maybe she has fallen off the grid for a bit, but the reason for some people now hating her is really stupid. I won’t get into it, but people are allowed to have lives outside of their work. Who would’ve known? Besides that, she is a talented singer who I know for voicing Lucy from Fairy Tail and Haruhi from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. She is also known for her role as Konata in Lucky Star and Misa in Death Note. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcDIA_VDyXA Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWB01IuMvzA (wow this song is catchy)

NOW FOR THE LIST!

10. Maaya Uchida

This is slightly bias because she did just such a good job playing Hiyori. I love her voice and can’t imagine anyone else playing one of my favourite characters. With that being said, I think the best role I’ve seen from her, but she has done a ton of other roles too. Takanashi Rikka from  Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! is another role that stands out to me. She truly makes me want to believe alongside her with her “eighth-grade syndrome”. Alluka from Hunter x Hunter is a role I didn’t expect, but I thought for the few clips I watched it was amazing and bone-chilling. I haven’t watched Rea from Sankarea, Yusa from Charlotte, and a bunch of other roles. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkGPh-BIoHo Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYSz35K8LaM

9. Mizuki Nana

Wow. I have a hard time recognizing her too, but maybe that’s because of her incredible range. On top of being a singer, she’s a tremendously talented voice actor. I know her as the soft-toned Hinata, but she has so many other roles. I haven’t watched a lot of her more prominent roles, but I have watched her as Hakuei Ren in Magi, Lan Fan in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, and Kisaki in WWW.Working! She has several other roles that I haven’t watched. The reason she has been placed this high on this list is that of the range I’ve seen in her performance and that craziness of her voice. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZpcbDTZhbw Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBO64zFAF1Q

8. Romi Park

(I couldn’t find a gif)

Yes. Her range is amazing. Edward Elric was given a voice by her. She is relatable, and she’s bilingual (and possibly trilingual) too! She speaks Korean and she has studied English! I haven’t watched a lot of shows with her in it (or at least completely), but here are a few roles that you might know her from. Ganta from Deadman Wonderland, Toshirou from Bleach, Temari from Naruto, Akane from Danganronpa, Switzerland from Hetalia, Angelina from Black Butler, Hange from Attack on Titan, and so many other roles! She’s really good at singing too! She’s so talented! Side note: She often represents Arakawa Hiromu (the mangaka of Fullmetal Alchemist), and I didn’t notice until now. Wow. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgmvx1yfr4Q Singing: (in English apparently) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgmvx1yfr4Q (Japanese) https://youtu.be/cWbMom6MDCE

7. Tomatsu Haruka

Weirdly, sometimes I have a hard time recognizing her voice. She has voiced such a large range of characters. She was one of the characters who gave me feels in Anohana where she played Anaru. I had so much fun watching a clip of Gintama’s genderbend where she played a female Gintoki. She was an independent protagonist in a shoujo as Shizuku in Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun and the Miyakoshi horrible cook who kills in WWW.Working. Other people might know her as Asuna from SAO, Megumi from Accel World, Shiro from Tokyo Ghoul, Ichika from Waiting in Summer, Rena in ReLife, Megumi from Shiki, and now you might know her as Zero Two in Darling in Franxx. But my favourite role from her is definitely Morgiana from Magi. She was such a badass, and I loved every minute with her on screen. She has so many other roles, and she sings really well too. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQOmY_gFQrE Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwEofctFN3E

6. Kana Hanazawa

She has done so many characters and is really popular. I love a lot of her roles, but this list is full of only the best of the best, so number 6 isn’t that bad! I love a good number of the characters she does too. She made me absolutely despise her in Akame Ga Kill as Seryuu. She was great as Shiemi from Blue Exorcist and broke my heart a little as Kanade from Angel Beats. I loved her little side roles as Lucy from Bungou Stray Dogs and as Kougyoku Ren from Magi. Sonohara from Durarara, Natsume from Tokyo Ravens, Chiaki from Danganronpa, and Onodera from Nisekoi are just a few other roles I’ve watched from her. I hope to watch Psychopass, the Monogatari series, Orange, Sakurada Reset, and Steins;Gate. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDC6SpI3xA0 Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-caezFDfTs

5. Sora Amamiya

She voices so many cool characters! Her portrayal of Akame was awesome. I was in it since then. But like all these other actors: range. I mean, Aqua from Konosuba is a character I despise, but she plays her brilliantly and makes me hate her so much. Other characters I’ve watched her play are Elise from Bungou Stray Dogs, Natsuki in Anthem of the Heart, Elizabeth in The Seven Deadly Sins, Touka in Tokyo Ghoul, and Shiho in WWW.Working. She has a lot of other roles too! Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaQsOj9RUOY Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9IN61D92OY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb85LQHEdqU Bonus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQR5UM9VeyE

4. Saori Hayami

She’s so cool. I’ve seen her play Chiriko from Anohana, Himawari from Boruto, Sharyuu from Juuni Taisen, and Emi from Your Lie In April. One of her most outstanding role for me was Shirayuki. I wouldn’t have it any other way because she gives her such a feeling of elegance, humility, and innocence. But one of the best roles I’ve seen from her is as Shouko from A Silent Voice. That movie shocked me and left me absolutely stunned. Her portrayal was timeless, moving, and amazing. I was hit in the feels, and her performance along with Miyu Irino will probably stay with me forever. She sings some good OPs, but she can also scream at the top of her lungs and play some insane characters. Just look at Kakegurui. I have only seen a couple of scenes from that anime, but there are so many other roles that I want to see from her! Serebryakova, Viktoriya Ivanovna from Youjo Senki, Urara from Yamada, Yukino from SNAFU, Yutsugi from the Monogatari series, Minami from Tokyo Ghoul (Jack), Shinoa from Owari no Seraph, Saki from Higashi no Eden, and several other roles! Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhBvZWG8oRQ Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_9PWDkqbcs

3. Rie Kugimiya

Okay wow. She’s amazing. Alphonse Elric has such a childish and innocent personality that was aided by her voice. She gave Taiga the perfect tsundere voice. She gives Kagura life and energy with her high-pitched voice. Those are my top three roles from her. Nobody else would ever be able to top those. Nora from Noragami is a character that I love to hate. I really want to watch her as Shana in Shakugan no Shana and as Juuzo from Tokyo Ghoul, and even though she doesn’t have as many roles that I want to catch up on, she plays three anime characters that I love. Her voice is the only one I hear when I see those three characters, and I would love to see her in other works as well. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mL6wgRNtkcc Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayJdEzhqQ0I

2. Maaya Sakamoto

Holy moly her singing voice is really good. Her relationship with Kenichi Suzumura is so sweet, and I wouldn’t have found out about him if it wasn’t for her. She can play little girls, boys, and wonderfully beautiful well-developed androgynous characters. Her role in Kara no Kyoukai as Shiki sends chills down my spine. It almost distracted from the fact that I had no clue about the timeline. She portrayed the craziest Crona in Soul Eater was absolutely insane. Scherezade from Magi was another role I’ve seen from her. Nino from Arakawa Under the Bridge was so quirky and wonderful, and I loved her weirdness. Haruhi was another role from her that I absolutely loved. She was calm, talented, and played a nice protagonist that I liked compared to the rest of the main cast. But I have so much catching up to do on her other roles because she has so many! Motoko from Ghost in a Shell, Falangies from Arslan Senki, Shinobu in the Monogatari series, Ciel in Black Butler, Merlin in the Seven Deadly Sins, and Eto and Sen from Tokyo Ghoul. She is such a badass because she plays a lot of cool characters. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coN0PuJrp_o Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j74CRP-QCA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SL_Hd4ItPw

1. Miyuki Sawashiro

She is honestly such a nice person. I watched a segment with her and her brother. She sounds like an awesome older sister. She plays so many badass women. Bishamon is honestly such a caring badass goddess who takes in people because she wants to care for them. She is a respectable goddess who is one of my favourite Noragami characters. Celty is a mysterious biker who is also a badass. Even though she barely speaks literally in Durarara, Miyuki reads her texts perfectly. The quest to find what she has been missing is one of my favourite sides of the story. Seo from Gekkan Shoujo is an inspiration who I love to this day. She’s one of my favourite characters, and I always rewatch her scenes. I have also seen her as Kusaribe in Zetsuen no Tempest (which I didn’t really like), Isasawa in Angel Beats, Touko in Danganronpa, Ul and Ultear in Fairy Tail, and Ayane in Kimi ni Todoke. I want to watch a lot more anime with her in the future including Shion in Psychopass, Sugura in the Monogatari series, Toto Sakigami in Deadman Wonderland, Seri in K, Shane in Charlotte, Kira in Btooom, Leona in Yamada, Himeko in Kokoro Connect, Kana in Kiseijuu, and Kurapika from Hunter x Hunter. I love her voice and her singing. She apparently knows how to play the piano too. I can’t even express in words how much respect I have for her. Roles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAcgJyuO5rM Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AM5OaDR-5U Bonus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBhlM0UpHLU

I think this concludes the list. I had such a hard time coming up with the order. I love my female seiyuu picks, and if you know anyone that I missed that I should’ve mentioned, just tell me! There aren’t that many female seiyuu Tumblr accounts though, so if you know any, send those to me too!

Shout out to @akaskira for this idea!

[hunter934]

Imaizumi Yui - Nikkei Entertainment Interview 2017

Since her 4-and-half-months hiatus until her return now, she continues her activities with brighter smile…

Around the beginning of filming of “Tokuyama Daigoro wo Dare ga Koroshita ka?” that broadcasted on summer 2016, Imaizumi’s physical condition started getting worse. After going through so much trouble, she discussed with the staffs, and decided that she would be taking a hiatus by the end of “Keyakizaka46 Debut 1st Anniversary Live” that held on April 6th this year. And since her hiatus announcement on April 13th, the Diva of Keyakizaka46 had disappeared from our eyes for a while.

When my physical condition getting worse, I had to take a rest from my job. It might be better if I take a rest for a while rather than doing a job in half-assed condition. However, I couldn’t find the right timing, and finally decided my hiatus right before our 1st Anniversary Live. I was worried that “If I return, I won’t have a place in the group anymore”, however I always have determination that I won’t stop singing despite taking a rest for a while. Singing and dancing are two things that can make me being myself.

I have started writing a diary since my hiatus. Since I want to try writing songs in the future, I think it’s gonna be useful. I have a note which I keep writing lyric phrase on it, someday I want to make it a song. I kept doing voice training (during hiatus), however since I never danced again, my physical strength got weaker. As example, I already felt exhausted around 2nd part of “Silent Majority”, so I started running to overcome that. I’m bad at running though (XD).

On the 1st album “Masshiro na Mono wa Yogoshitakunaru” (released on July 2017), we can hear Imaizumi’s singing voice from her solo song “Natsu no Hana wa Himawari dake janai” and Yuichanzu’s song with Kobayashi Yui “1-gyou Dake no Air Mail”. We can also see her appearance with short hair and skinny face on the album booklet. When the opportunity of her comeback was getting higher, on the first day of Tokyo Stage (Makuhari Messe) of “National Arena Tour 2017”, Sugai said “Next one is a song which we are always waiting for”, Imaizumi then stood on the stage and sang “Natsu no Hana wa Himawari dake janai”.

Staff told me, “Whether you will be participating this tour or not, the decision is up to you”, so I decided to make a comeback at the final of the tour. I didn’t participate since the beginning, so I was worried about it, but I thought that I should participate because the timing was right, I already prepared myself to step forward.

On the “Natsu no Hana wa Himawari dake janai”, I’m able to make the best use of my voice quality. During my hiatus, I was able to accept my voice as it is, my way of singing already changed.

I thought I wouldn’t have a problem, but I felt nervous as soon as I stepped on the stage, my head went blank. I want to apologize for not being able to sing properly, I’ve reflected on it. On the second day (August 30th), I could relax a little, I thought I was able to put more feeling on my singing better than the first day.

I was worried that people would think “Other members did their best for a month, but Imaizumi only participated at the final”, but as soon as I appeared on the stage, I was surrounded by yellow penlights from the audience seats, I was touched when I saw it. I can’t forget that scenery.

On the encore, I also participated in “Silent Majority” and “Futari Saison” (released on November 2016), but I struggled following their movement since it was my first performance with them after a long time. However during my hiatus, I reread all Keyakizaka’s lyrics, it enabled me interpretating differently. As example, instead of showing “no smile” expression, it’s alright to show different expression in “Silent Majority”. I could perform with different feeling at that time.

At the Makuhari backstage, Yuipon (Kobayashi yui) said “Good Luck!” to me, but I was very nervous, I couldn’t response properly to her. To be honest, I only told Yuipon about my hiatus, but I can’t speak to her properly since my return, I want to apologize properly to her someday.

I’m a person that easily worrying and overthinking, I always feel pessimistic more than anyone. I can’t change my basic personality, but recently I begin to think “well, whatever”. I think I can laugh much more often than before.

On the 5th single “Kaze ni Fukaretemo”, my position is in the middle of third row. I am very happy since I always expected that I would be removed from senbatsu. As a professional, I can’t let people feel that I’m being left behind by the other members, so I will be working hard to catch them up.

=====================================

*Note: I’m not 100% sure with my translation since I only found low-resolution picture… and sorry for my bad english.

[akanemachurida-blog]

18/01/05 - Laguna Music Festival Report

I went to the SKE48 Laguna Music Festival on January 5. There has been and will be more streams of this event but I figured I might as well do a report since I’ve been inactive for so long.

This was my first proper SKE concert, so I was really excited to go. Unfortunately, Churi couldn’t be there due to her play, which began the following day. This concert was really long, but as usual I’ll start with the boring stuff like how I got there.

The Laguna park is in Gamagoori which is very close to where I live, so it didn’t take me long to get there. There was a free shuttle bus from the station to the park, and while they were only scheduled every thirty minutes there were a ton of people today so there were extra buses. I waited a while but nothing to complain about.

I then entered the park. I actually had to buy data on my phone (the first time I’ve ever had data on a phone) since the tickets were electronic and I had to show a webpage and have a staff click some button. I wish they let us print tickets out but I guess everyone owns a phone with data now.

I wanted to explore the park a bit but as usual I got anxious about how the ticket situation was going to work. After I paid online for my ticket I was given #C179. I think everyone was in the C block apart from those with handicaps. So I guessed that my ticket was good, but I didn’t realize how good it was, since the numbers actually started from 100, meaning I was the 79th in. Actually, the staff didn’t really properly check out tickets when we were going in, meaning some people could have cut in with a bad number and gotten a good view. Regardless, I waited around thirty minutes to get inside the “venue”, where I had to wait another hour for the show to begin.

(This was where we lined up with our numbers. We were calleld up and made our way to the stage on the other side of the bridge.)

It was very cold that day, so I made sure to dress warmly. I’m glad I wore a lot of layers because it quickly got colder when the sun set. A lot of others did not dress for the occasion and I could see that they were in pain after the concert. Counting the waiting and concert I stood for around five hours, which really sucks if you aren’t prepared for the weather.

Alright, now for the concert itself. I felt like an idiot during the entire concert since I forgot to bring my penlight that changes colours and only brought my green one. Have you ever watched a video and thought “Wow that person is so inconsiderate, always keeping the same colour? Why can’t they change and support the other members too?” well that was me that day. I was so focused on supporting Maya that I forgot to bring the other penlight.

M01 1!2!3!4! Yoroshiku

One of my favourite SKE “classics.” All the members participated in the first three songs, so it took me a while to find Maya. I actually spent half or more of this song trying to find her. I finally did near the end of it.

M02 Banzai Venus

Now that I found Maya I was on homing-mode for the rest of the concert. My target was locked and nothing was going to stop me from following her through the songs. I actually don’t care much for this song but I was pretty much fixated on Maya so I don’t have much to add here.

M03 Te wo Tsunaginagara

A classic. I think it was my first time hearing it live. This is one of those songs that pays to look at someone throughout it. Maya was just hilarious, although I can’t remember who she was with for this song. Again, I was on my Maya cam so no comments on the other members. This song just flew by since I was enjoying myself so much.

Maya wrote in her blog that she was given this senbatsu outfit for the start. She first wore that outfit at Sae’s grad concert but had to give it up after she was dropped from senbatsu shortly after. She was happy to be able to wear it again and hopes to get more costumes of her own as time goes by.

MC

Since there are so many members there weren’t any introductions. Only ten or so members stayed for the MC, where they eventually wished Tani a happy birthday. Makiko and Wanchan came in for a surprise wearing yukata, but they hadn’t congratulated Tani yet so they had to go back. Makiko and Wanchan were given yukata since they were the two members born in the year of the dog. (Ranran is another one, but she wasn’t there today)

M04 Koko de Ippatsu - Makiko, Wanchan

I did not like this performance. I think this is the first time I’ve been disappointed when I’ve seen SKE perform a song. I’ve usually blamed the song over the members in the past, and maybe my expectations were too high. However I’ve come to really like this song after Churi performed it with Mizuno Airi at Zepp Tokyo last year, and I’ve watched that performance countless times. This performance did not match it at all, which was disappointing. That being said, they were wearing yukata which likely made it hard to move, but they hardly moved at all anyway.

Anyway, during the song the two members announced their goals for the year. Wanchan’s is to lose 10 kilos to do gravure and Makiko’s is to not fail a single time!

M05 Koppu no Naka no Komorebi / Love Crescendo（original members）

I’ve never been much of a fan of this song, and I always paid attention to the Transit Girls unit of the single since I liked a lot of members in it. However with my rising appreciation of Maya I was very excited to see this song. I made sure to call out Maya’s name when it was her turn, although I accidentally called her name at other times too. I made sure to call everyone else too during this song, I was very into it. It’s funny how a single member can make you like a song.

M06 Madogiwa Lover / Next Position

This song is pretty unremarkable and I actually totally forgot it. I was probably still thinking about the past song and was in bliss. Sorry.

M07 Kanpeki Gu~ no ne / STRAWBERRY PUNCH

This is some old AKB song and this was the first time I heard it. Yuzuki and Mikotti did a very good job though, everyone was pumped for this song and in a good mood. I didn’t see them during the Unit Contest but they did really well and I enjoyed seeing them as a unit.

M08 Wimbledon he Tsureteitte / Yukatan, Sakipon, Honono

Never really liked this song, but I surprisingly liked it. It’s different live, since you get to do a lot of calls and get into the song. I also was really impressed with Sakipon’s dancing and movements during this song. She’s one of my favourite performers and she didn’t disappoint during this concert. I also like her a lot in that outfit and she did a good job at keeping my attention.

M09 Ookami to Pride / Mizuno Airi, Kamimura Ayuka

Like the last song, I don’t really like this song all that much, but the pairing was just great. It was really cool to see them perform together! It really exuded freshness. I’m not sure whether their performance was shaky or not since I haven’t watched this song much.

M10 Finland Miracle / Ouchan, Machi, Ayamelody

Another song with a fresh feeling. I was really getting into the groove of the concert and enjoying myself, and it made me happy to see this unit. This was the first time I saw this song live. It’s a very nostalgic one since it’s a Ramune song and I thoroughly enjoyed it for that nostalgia factor as well as the bonus of seeing these younger members perform it.

MC2 / Next Position, Yuzuki, Sakipon, Narupi, Airi, Ayuka

I totally forgot what this MC was about, I’m sorry. But Next Position’s goal for 2018 was to stay together and not die a natural death!

M11 Kamoku na Tsuki / Nao, Mikotti

This is without a doubt my favourite 48g song, and I was just overjoyed to see it today. I was surprised that only two members performed it, and I really would have liked to see more members in it. I remember Churi performing it during a Request Hour years and years ago, so I want her to perform it again. Unfortunately she wasn’t there and Maya wasn’t in this song either. However for all this complaining about extra members, the two present were absolutely fantastic. Nao is probably the best performer in the group, and Mikotti really surprised me during this song. Both of their voices sounded absolutely fantastic and it blew me away. This concert certainly made me appreciate Mikotti more.

M12 Himawari / Yukina, Rara, Sarina, Piyosu

Not a fan of this song and I did not like this performance either. The sound was really awful and I had a hard time picking the vocals out from the instruments. I don’t want to be more negative so I’ll leave it at that. I saw people saying good things about it when they saw the stream so maybe I am in the wrong here.

M13 Manazashi Sayonara / Kano, Tani

A song that I like, but I think I’ve seen this song a bit too much, making it stale. I didn’t really “feel” anything from this specific performance, unlike previous performances of the song. It made me think of how great Nao and Airin were when they performed it. That being said it wasn’t a bad performance.

M14 Kono Mune no Barcode / Kumachan, Minarun, Nacchi

It had been a really long time since I had heard this song. I don’t really care for it much but I thought the members did a good job.

MC3 / Oshirin, Kano, MAchi, Honono, Kocchan, Wanchan, Yukatan, Piyosu, Hatagon

They talked about what they did on New Year’s, but I completely forgot what they said. Sorry.

M15 Omoide Ijou  / Yokonyan, Juna, Narupi

Now this was special. I notice myself thinking that every time I see Yokonyan center a song, so I think there is a trend here. She is just a fantastic performer and makes every song she is in electrifying. You can feel her excitement and it easily makes its way into the crowd. Narupi had a bit of a stumble during the beginning of the song so I felt bad for her, but she recovered quickly and performed well for the rest of it. I didn’t really look at Juna much since Yokonyan drew me in and I was watching Narupi quite a bit. It was refreshing seeing this song with these members and I hope to see Yokonyan center more songs in the future. The nice thing about her long hair is that you can still see her hair flying around the stage even if you can’t see her body due to someone’s head being in the way.

M16 Ame no Pianist / Yumana, Reona, Satokaho

I thought Yumana looked great during this song. Again, another fun mix of members. However for whatever reason I didn’t feel much energy from the members during this song. Maybe it’s just the nature of the song, but I was looking for a little something more during this song.

M17 Cross / Oshirin, Hatagon, Aiai

This is where I turn into a total hypocrite. Notice how I’ve been saying how I appreciate the variety of the members in these units. This song is where I turned into a reactionary and wanted the traditional order back. I guess not having Churi in this concert and hearing her song made want to see her perform it, leaving me disappointed. The nice thing about the units is that they mix members from teams, however I was just left hoping this song only had KII members. I’m probably wrong to feel that way but it’s how I felt during the performance so I’m writing it here. I was also disappointed with myself for not bringing my other penlight since I really wish I could have turned to red for this song.

M18 Hanshateki Suru / Love Crescendo (with new members)

All those negative feelings vanished when I saw Maya on the stage again. Apart from Kamoku na Tsuki, which was a pleasant surprise, this would be the song I was looking forward to the most. I really like the short version they uploaded on the official youtube, so I was excited to hear the full version and see Maya perform it. She was great and so were the other members I caught glimpses of. In a way this felt like the climax of the concert since I got to see the song and member I wanted to hear/see the most.

MC4 / Love Crescendo

And they stayed for the MC! I was in for a treat since Maya introduced the new Love Crescendo members. She said that Renahyuu needs to decide a character quickly because Maya isn’t sure what kind of character she has in real life, but she recommends people to go talk to Renahyuu if they share her interests since she’s great at talking about her hobbies. She then said that (Inoue) Ruka is a country bumpkin, since apparently Kumamoto is more country-like than Miyagi, and she hopes that Ruka can fish fans with her cute dialect since she’s one of the few to use her dialect.

She then said that Miyomaru is just skin and bones, but that under those thin bones lies a strong will to be an idol. And finally Chikako has a smile as big as the area of the Laguna park! No one can not be happy after they see Chikako’s smile. She wants Chikako to continue smiling. Maya wrote on her blog that her manager praised her for this MC. Maya then said she and Renahyuu had to leave to prepare for the next song, so I was really happy to hear that and just thrilled to hear she’d be in another song! The rest of the MC was about what they wanted to do, but I tuned out and just day dreamed about Maya.

M19 Matsumurarabu! / Kaotan

I hope the camera didn’t capture the disappointment on my face. I was shocked. This was the song Maya was going to appear in? I quickly realized that she meant a following song and that I was dumb to expect her to appear in the next song. Anyway, I found myself getting into the song. I think I’ve heard this song so much with KII that I just instinctively clap and cheer along. Kaotan threw signed balls and then got a bat (which she didn’t do well with) and a tennis racket (which she did extremely well with) to throw balls at the crowd during the song. So I ended up liking the song despite my initial confusion.

M20 Darenimo Iwanaide / Kocchan（Panda dancers: second draftees）

This was the first time I heard Kocchan’s solo song she got from the rock paper scissors tournament. I actually don’t have an opinion of it yet, I need to listen to it again, and I didn’t pay that much attention to Kocchan. Maya came in with Kocchan’s own Panchan and was a back dancer, along with the other second draft members. I was just overcome with the cuteness of the song and stared at Maya. Even though this was a solo song it ended up having other members too, which I liked. However, I wonder if that’s fair considering the performances before and after only had a single member too. I don’t think the other members detracted from Kocchan’s performance, even if I was mostly staring at someone who was not Kocchan lol. I felt that it added to the song and spectacle and her panda character.

M21 Ima no Watashija Damenanda / Akarin

I was starting to get a bit tired of the solo songs, since this was the third in a row. Still, I think that was okay since I hadn’t seen Dasu for much of the concert. Actually, this was the first time she appeared since the first three songs, so I think she deserved it. There were a ton of her fans around me, and they really enjoyed this song. This created a nice atmosphere and I found myself enjoying the performance too, even if I didn’t really like the song.

M22 Hanauranai / Jurina

I simply did not like this at all. A fourth solo song in a row which featured a member who appeared plenty already. I realize that Jurina is popular but she surely could have gone into a unit with other members. Now I don’t want to blame her for this since it might not have been her decision but I was not particularly happy. The song was also quite bad. I think I would have come around to like it if she performed Akai Pinheel, either by herself or with another member. At least that song gets me excited. It also felt like this song would just not end.

M23 Igai ni Mango / Yunana center

Time for a great song to bring me back to life. The next units all had various members thrown into them. This particular bunch of girls had Maya in it so I was overjoyed to see her perform this song with Yunana. Maya was very close to me, so I got to look at her a lot during this song, and it was awesome. She made a lot of funny faces too, which made me laugh a lot.

M24 12gatsu no Kangaroo / Yokonyan and Ego double center

Maya’s unit left but I was really happy to see Yokonyan center another song. This song never fails to get me excited. It’s also one that gets me moving a bit, which was nice since my legs were very stiff and sore.

M25 Maenomeri / Rara, Chikako, Miyomaru front three

The third unit arrived and this song was equally excellent. I spent my time during these songs looking at all the members since there were so many. I also think this was my first time hearing this song live, which was really cool.

M26 Coquettish Juutaichuu / Nao, Sarina double center

Another excellent song. This part of the concert was great. It was a lot of fun saying the “ku-ki-zu-ke” part of the song.

M27 Sansei Kawaii! / (Inoue) Ruka, Kano, Yukatan, Miyomaru front

I honestly forgot how many times they changed between units. Miyomaru was there two songs ago and here she is again. Yet I can’t remember seeing Maya a second time. These units and members were a blur! It happened so quickly.

MC5 / Mikotti, Reona, Ouchan, Satokaho, Yokonyan, Nacchi, Ayamelody, Yumana

The topic was what they wanted to do to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the group. I can’t remember anything except for Ayamelo saying she wanted to do a SKE48 only sports meet where the fans could join in. I’d love to join that if it were to happen!

M28 Muishiki no Iro / （Makiko took Churi’s spot）

The new single that everyone wanted to hear. Of course I was only looking at Maya, but she’s on the edge at the back, on the left. I had a very hard time seeing from my angle. Jurina’s waist was in front of where Maya was, so I was trying to maneuver around it to get a glimpse. I remember just giving up and looking at Minarun instead and trying again later.

M29 Boku wa Shitteiru / ALL

I honestly forgot most of what happened here. I was just trying to get a look at Maya and got to call her name a few times. I noticed that I was usually the only one calling her name (from the voices I could hear) when it was her turn on songs. It kind of made me question if I was breaking a rule or something since people would be rather quiet when it was time to call her and other members around her.

(I feel bad for writing this but my point of these reports is to describe how I felt during the concert so I feel that it’s necessary)

Jurina wrote a blog after the concert saying she cried during this song because it hit her that she was the only first gen left when she was the only one singing a part of the song, making her feel lonely when she thought about it being the tenth anniversary. Anyway, afterwards Makiko asked Jurina what was wrong since Jurina was crying. To be honest I was pretty angry at this point since I felt that Jurina had taken up enough of the spotlight as it was and might have been acting dramatic to get some attention. I didn’t use to think of Jurina in this way but after the Unit Contest where she cried after losing to Strawberry Punch and caused a big scene which made Yuzuki upset I have started to wonder if she purposefully craves attention during these concerts since it seems to happen every time and the entire group needs to coddle her.

MC6

The members made us count down the illumination of the park. The colours were really nice and lit up the night sky nicely!

M30 Nakama no Uta / ALL

A nice song to end it off, felt very traditional. It was nice to sing the last part but I had to improvise and try to remember the lyrics since I don’t know them well at all lol.

The members bowed afterwards and said their thank you, but they only bowed twice instead of three times. Afterwards the members started waving at us in the crowd. Maya was right in front of me and I was furiously shaking that lightstick trying to get her attention. (Heat of the moment) Unfortunately for me, Makiko made all the members come back and do a re-take of the bow and thank you. Jurina fell down (for comedic effect?) during the re-take. I couldn’t help but think of what I thought of before, but whatever, it was Maya time again. 

The person in front of me was rather tall but wasn’t much a problem for much of the concert. However, he was a Kumachan oshi and he had one of those fans with her face on it. Maya and Kuma were often together near the end and whenever Kuma was near us he would jump and wave that fan, obscuring me from Maya’s gaze. Anyway I made sure to stay clear of that thing as best of I could to make contact with Maya. Incidentally, the person behind me was a bit of a bother too, hitting my back a few times with his penlight and his bag.

I was hoping Maya would stay around our area of the stage, and she did for a bit. She waved at me and smiled a lot and I felt great to put it lightly. I just kept waving throughout. She would then wave at any other person she could spot with a solo geen penlight. She would make this circle motion for people who were far away, and then point at them to make sure they knew she was waving at them.

There were some Saanan calls after it was over, and she came out by herself and talked about how it was sad since it was her last concert with SKE. I actually can’t remember what else she said but it was along those lines. It was emotional yet she didn’t overdo it.

This was a pretty special event since I decided to focus entirely on one member during the times she was there, as opposed to other events where I tried to pay attention to everyone. It was a lot of fun. I think Maya is special in this case because she is always making a funny face and laughing with other members. I’m impressed by her serious side the most though. As much as she likes joking around she puts a lot of effort in trying to locate her fans. I noticed that during the first three songs her eyes would briefly scan the audience. It’s very subtle and happens extremely quickly, but it seems like she utilizes some parts of the dance to get a view of the fans. For example, I noticed that she looked directly at me several times at the start, and would make these brief gazes at other areas of the audience. This may sound unnatural but it actually looked very fluid. I assume this is how she kept track of me during the time I went to the Team E theatre performance.

After the concert I took pictures of the illuminations and met up with some fans from Taiwan and China. I didn’t speak to all of them but there was a group of six or so fans who made the trip for the live. Two of them are Churi oshis so I told them about how great Maya is and showed them some pictures to try and convert them.

I hope I can go to another concert or theatre performance before I have to leave!

[chestnut-b]

Himawari Chapter 6

This man will be the death of you.

The first time Iruka had laid eyes on Kakashi’s figure in that field of sunflowers, a voice had whispered in his ear, as if carried by the wind.

Chapter 6 of a Demon Slayer AU.

Iruka, I’m sorry.

His mother had smiled at him sadly the first time he’d mentioned hearing voices. She’d taken him into her warm arms and sang a sweet but melancholic song, her hands running through his hair, the sound of the waves breaching the shore outside eventually lulling him to sleep.

It wasn’t until he was older that he was made to understand the nature of being born a Senju. 

Descendants would always be born with bodies that would fail them.

Their karma from having produced a great demon would haunt their line till the day Orochimaru was wiped from existence. 

But the gods, in some twisted form of consolation, decided to bestow their kin with exceptional foresight, allowing them to amass their fortunes, and continue their fight till this day, leading the demon slayers.

Of all the voices Iruka had heard throughout his life, the one that would have saved his parents never reached him. 

Iruka had been a sickly child, too weak to lift a sword. He could manage a kunai at least, much to his father’s relief, and soon, he began his training in the shinobi arts. Poisons, traps, diversions and an almost inhumane focus on accuracy made up a large part of his childhood memories with his father. Bittersweet, but precious nonetheless. 

Ikaku hailed from a small shinobi village on the Izu coast, its destruction eventually leading him to the demon slayers. He’d been reporting to Sarutobi at his estate when he came across a visiting Kohari.

“He was as red as a tomato.” Sarutobi would chuckle, grinning widely as he recounted that first meeting. His father’s dour demeanour had been well-known amongst his comrades, but so was his sense of duty. It made his desertion with Kohari all the more shocking.

“The burden of being a Senju is not an easy one to bear, Iruka. She wanted to protect you, however she could.” 

It was the night of his thirteenth year. He was managing a squirming Naruto in his arms when Sarutobi had said that. Had Iruka followed the path he was meant to walk, he would have already been married to a wife chosen by the temple, and the baby in his arms would have been his own, one who would eventually endure the same cycle of karma as their ancestors before them. 

If being thankful for avoiding that fate made him a coward, so be it.

His parents had brought him to Sarutobi several times as he grew older, despite the lingering fear of retribution for deserting. With his instruction, Iruka had eventually worked up the strength to even wield a sword, something Sarutobi considered an achievement in itself, even if his stamina would always be left wanting.

“If something happens to us, go to him.”

Those were the last instructions they gave him before they had set out from their home. A week prior, a talking crow had appeared, bearing news of the coming birth of an Uzumaki, and the hoard of demons and familiars who were beginning to gather. His mother, already in a weakened state, simply looked at her husband resolvedly. 

Perhaps she too, had received her own revelation. Ikaku had deserted the corp, but never his will to protect the weak from demons. His blade had never seen a dull day, and this time, he would not let his old comrades face the coming threat alone. 

They’d died fulfilling their duties.

Iruka was proud of them. He’d told them as much, praying before the empty grave markers he’d made outside their home.

He’d just wished they hadn’t left him behind. 

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

If he closed his eyes and focused, he could hear the beat of Kakashi’s heart.

Like the rumbling of a storm forming in the distance. 

As a child, he’d run out of the house to stand on the edge of the cliff where his parents’ graves now stood, watching with fascination as the darkening clouds gathered where the sea met the sky. 

If he closed his eyes, he’d find himself there yet again.

“Naruto, keep yourself together. Not much longer now.”

Surprisingly, the boy nodded obediently without complaint. He’d been strangely quiet. They were passing through another wisteria grove, and Iruka found himself being carried on the Hashira’s back as they made the last of their way back to the school. Kakashi had insisted; he wasn’t in good shape, despite the rest he had gotten. 

An hour ago when they’d left the cave, he’d slipped an arm under his knees and back, lifting him up as easily as one would a child. Resistance at this point was futile, and Kakashi’s amusement seemed to grow the redder he got.

This man will be the death of you.

The first time Iruka had laid eyes on Kakashi’s figure in that field of sunflowers, a voice had whispered in his ear, as if carried by the wind.

It wasn’t said with any kind of discernible malice, nor was it tainted with foreboding, like so many of the voices he’d heard before. 

It was gentle and lined with warmth, almost as if it was meant to comfort him. 

Mother?

Iruka had been so shaken by this, he’d forgotten to offer his name to the Hashira when they finally met.

Nearly two months later, here he was, flush against a warm and broad back that reminded him painfully of his father, Naruto trailing sleepily behind them.

If this was what that voice was referring to, perhaps it wasn’t the worst way  to go.

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

They moved at a steady pace amidst the rain of falling petals overhead, and he was just about ready to doze off before Kakashi’s musings reached his ears.

“I was thinking...we’re not too different after all, Iruka-sensei.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“The Final Selection. I didn’t pass either.” He admitted softly.

“I’ve heard Naruto tell better lies, Kakashi-san.” Iruka couldn’t imagine a world where it could be true.

“You wound me, sensei. I’d never lie to you.” Iruka thought he almost sounded serious for a moment, but Kakashi sighed wistfully before continuing, a little more subdued than Iruka was used to hearing. 

“After my father died, I ended up at a school. I met a boy, Obito, and a girl, Rin there. Minato-sensei eventually came and took us as his apprentices.”

“Obito was an idiot, but we became rivals. We entered the selection together. I’d always made fun of him for being a crybaby and a goody-two shoes, but he ended up saving many of the entrants that year.”

“We ended up against a demon who’d survived on the mountain for over three decades, eating humans and absorbing other demons. We were outmatched, and I’d lost an eye, but...Obito managed to activate his Sharingan.”

The Sharingan; so Obito was a descendant of the Uchiha, Iruka realised. Like the Uzumaki, they’d come from a long, ancient line of demon hunters. Their eyes were said to have granted demon-like perception, but at a steep price. Much like the Senju, none with an activated Sharingan would live to see old age. By now, they had been all but wiped out, after one of their members had become a demon, slaughtering and sparing not even a single child,

“We thought we’d defeated it, and I’d let my guard down. The cave we were in collapsed on us.” Kakashi continued. “Obito protected me and took the blow, but his right side was crushed.”  

Iruka’s hold on Kakashi’s shoulders tightened on reflex. He knew what was coming. The eyepatch over Kakashi’s left eye, along with his fame as a Hashira, was more than enough.

“Rin was skilled enough to fulfill his last request, but I lost consciousness right after, and when I came to, the selection was over. Obito was the only one who failed to make it that year.”

Kakashi looked up at the wisteria flowers overhead.

“So you see, sensei, I don’t deserve to be standing here right now. I didn’t pass the selection like I was supposed to.”

Iruka pressed closer.

“Please don’t say that. It hasn’t just been Naruto and my life you’ve saved.” Iruka whispered. How many lives had Kakashi rescued since becoming a slayer, too many to count, in all likelihood.

Passing the selection meant you had to survive a week on that battlefield, and Kakashi had, by all means, passed. Most of the entrants would have been children.

The demon Kakashi had faced might have been an outlier, but the thought of Naruto having to go through the same ordeal was almost too much to bear. 

“You don’t resent the Senju for all this?” 

It was a question only a Hashira could answer. They were the only ones in the corp who knew the identity of their leader; it was a secret as closely guarded as the location of the family estate. The rest of the corp knew him only as “Oyakata-sama”.

“I can’t say they’ve done everything right, but they are doing their best.” Kakashi stated. There must have been more he wanted to say, he’d refrained from doing so.

They continued walking in silence for a while more, but a question had been circling in Iruka’s mind since Kakashi had mentioned it the night before. 

“Kakashi-san...your father, did he...look like you?”

He felt Kakashi’s pace hitch for just a beat. 

“Why do you ask?” It was barely a whisper.

“If he did...I might have seen him before.” Iruka admitted.

It was one of Iruka’s earliest recollections. The man had hair much longer than Kakashi’s, and though Iruka had yet to see most of the Hashira’s face, the aura they projected was remarkably similar.

The man fought Ikaku outside their home. It had been a fierce battle, and the first time he’d seen his father fight another human. Kohari had been holding him, and she’d been more scared than Iruka remembered being. 

“I think he’d been sent to find us. Father called him -”

“Sakumo.” Kakashi finished. Iruka nodded. 

“He didn’t say very much. They fought, and after a while, he just left.” 

Kakashi snorted. “That sounds just like him”

Iruka smiled wryly. He’d left out the fact that Sakumo had beat his father half an inch from his life. With a wave, he’d left with a satisfied look on his face, together with the hound he’d arrived with. 

“He’d found us, but nothing ever happened after that.”

Kakashi chuckled softly. “So he was testing your father’s resolve then.”

Iruka smiled. 

“He must have been a good man.”

“What makes you think that?” It almost sounded like a test.

Iruka had only ever seen his father cry twice. The first, when he had to accept there was nothing he could do for his wife’s declining condition. The second…

“My father cried when the news came.”

That Sakumo had killed himself, having been turned a demon. Even if it had been against his will, his village would have shunned him, even in death. His family too, would have been made outcasts. 

Kakashi remained quiet, and Iruka was slowly beginning to regret bringing up the subject.

“Thank you. It’s good to know I wasn’t the only one.”

Gods. 

He closed his eyes, feeling like the child he used to be, watching the storm brewing on the horizon. Sakumo and Kakashi, watching them in battle, had felt exactly the same way. 

He thought of his parents, who were watching him from wherever they’d gone.

Father...Mother…

If there is any happiness out there meant for this man…

Please, guide him to it.

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

Iruka had requested for the last of his dignity to be spared, and so just before they’d arrived at gates, Kakashi set the teacher back down on his two feet. Strapping his sword back into his belt, Iruka checked on his young charge, who had been almost unnervingly quiet since they’d set out this morning.

“Naruto, something wrong?”

“I’m fine, sensei.” He could have been a lot more convincing if he’d looked Iruka in the eyes. Iruka’s expression grew more concerned, and he placed a warm hand on the boy’s head.

“You must be starving. I’ll have them fix you something as soon as we get back.” The boy nodded in response, and the three of them walked towards the gates. 

“What the heck happened to you?” Izumo and Kotetsu had run up to them as soon as they were in sight. Iruka scratched the back of his head and sighed.

“We ran into some trouble on the way back. One of the entry points’ been destroyed, and we encountered a demon at the cave by the ravine.” 

“You’re serious. It’s the second one this month. We’ll have to let the others know. You look like crap by the way.” 

Iruka rolled his eyes in Kotetsu’s direction.

“Who took over my class today?”

“Oh, Mizuki did, he wasn’t too happy about it either. He says you owe him a main dish at dinner.”

“Right.” Iruka sighed. 

Behind them, Izumo went up to Kakashi, holding up a slip of paper to the Hashira.

“A message arrived this morning for you, Hatake-dono.” Kakashi thanked the man, and looked at the letter’s contents.

The Snake Pillar has arrived. Your presence at headquarters is requested. Your debriefing will be held in two days.

So Anko had returned. A debriefing…

Kakashi’s gaze found Iruka’s back. He’d gone up ahead with Naruto, but turned around to send a tired smile his way. 

Was this feeling...Disappointment? 

Perhaps. 

Despite the realisation, he found himself smiling too.

It had been a long time since he’d had something to feel that way about. 

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

“I see.” 

Iruka was staring into his tea cup again.

“Naruto’s in good hands, Iruka-sensei.” Kakashi said, sipping at his own tea. He’d spent the afternoon packing his belongings. 

It had been years since Kakashi had spent this much time in one place, but it wasn’t as difficult as he’d expected. Two months had gone by in the blink of an eye, and he’d been given precious time to think about things he’d brushed off before.

Like why he was still alive. Why he was still a demon slayer. 

Despite everything he’d lost, living the life he did, it was easy to forget. 

“I’ll send Bisuke and Guruko when I can.”

Iruka laughed softly. “Not that anything exciting happens around here, but I’d like to hear about your adventures, Kakashi-san.”

The teacher’s face seemed to brighten at his words. His face was faintly flushed, and his smile was warm. It was different from the one he’d seen the day they’d first met, the one that was meant to greet a superior. Kakashi liked to think they could be friends. 

That night at dinner, when Iruka gave up his dish as compensation to Mizuki for covering for him, he’d laughed when half a grilled fish appeared on his empty plate. 

It was a worthwhile sacrifice to hear it. 

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

“Naruto’s resting in bed. He’s still pretty out of it I’m afraid.” 

Iruka scratched at his scar sheepishly.

They’d walked together till the gates were out of sight. Guruko was trailing behind Kakashi, but when they’d stopped, Iruka kneeled down to give her a satisfying rub. 

“Don’t let Kakashi-san work you too hard, Guruko.” He whispered. Guruko barked happily in agreement. Iruka laughed, and rose again to face Kakashi. 

“So this is where we part.”

“For now.” 

“For now.” Iruka repeated, nodding. 

He reached a hand out towards the Hashira, who took it firmly in his own.

“It’s going to be a bit lonelier now. Keep safe, Kakashi-san.” 

It was a hard ask for someone who’d lived to throw themselves into battle.

“Well, I’ll do my best, Iruka-sensei.”

He would. Kakashi had to stay alive, now that he’d found a new reason to fight. 

“Maybe I’ll find a way to defeat Orochimaru, and you’ll finally be able to leave this fancy cage you’ve built for yourself.”

If the gods are willing, you’ll get to see Naruto grow up, or even have a family of your own.

Iruka’s eyes widened, before softening again. He let go of Kakashi’s hand. 

“I’ve never thought of it that way, but thank you, Kakashi-san.” 

“I’m really glad I got to meet you.”

Kakashi smiled at him one more time before he started walking. Lifting an arm, he gave a lazy wave before eventually disappearing from sight.

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

It should have only been the two of them, so why did he feel a third presence?

Iruka felt a burning sensation in his chest. 

It hurt to breathe. 

He pried his eyes open. 

Naruto lay in his futon an arm away. But he was wide awake, and he was staring at Iruka wordlessly; not with his sky-blue eyes, no.

The eyes that bore into him now were slit, and glowed orange like a molten fire.

“Naruto...?” Words struggled to leave his throat, but the boy didn’t respond. Iruka felt despair grip him. If this wasn’t a nightmare, what was he to do? 

He did the only thing he could think of. 

Reaching an arm out to Naruto, he pulled the boy to his chest. It was as if he’d held his hand to a naked flame. His entire body burned.

He heard a faint growl and felt the child struggle under his arm, and despite his burning lungs, Iruka held him closer.

“Naruto, it’s alright. I’m here.” Iruka cried. 

No matter what happens. I’m here.

The boy stiffened in his arms, but soon relaxed into his hold. The heat emanating from his body dissipated, and Iruka found the strength to take in air once again. The third presence he had felt faded from his senses, and the boy was soon breathing in the relaxed rhythm Iruka had come to know. 

Closing his eyes, he recalled Kakashi’s words the day before.

Naruto’s in good hands...

I can only pray you’re right, Kakashi-san.

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

End of Chapter 6

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Author’s Notes:

Ohh, I wasn’t kidding when I said this was going to be a slow burn. ;_; 

It’s not a chapter with too much going on in it, but I hope it was an enjoyable one nonetheless! I’m curious as to what you think (if you’ve read Demon Slayer) and how it’s been used as a backdrop for this fic. Of course, things have been changed a bit. : )

I’m really happy with how the art turned out for this chapter though! I’ve had to teach myself how to draw again after a long hiatus, and this was the first time I’ve been satisfied with the end result, so I hope you enjoy it too!

[ourheroimagines-blog]

Hey dear! I read you're caught up to the provisional license exam. May I request a scenario or headcanons (your preference) for how Todoroki would respond to Inasa going up to his crush and introducing himself and confessing in the same sentence? Telling her she's beautiful, and asking if he could have her email, etc. "We should date!!1!" I feel like he would definitely be the type to do this and I loved the part of that arc involving those two and the tension of that relationship xD

So I didn’t even wait. I got this when I got home from the gym and got started. I have something similar in mind for another set of characters myself.

I kind of used my character Himawari and this is long because I had much fun. On that note, I feel Todoroki wouldn’t really be able to do anything? Other than just what he is feeling. It’s his crush, not his girlfriend so I hope you like it. I kind of left it open for possibilities. 

I will 100% do a part two if requested. I may just do it on my own.

Today was the day and as everyone believed they felt ready, she could see the nervous-ness on everyone’s faces. All except for Todoroki Shouto and Bakugou Katsuki. So many people were already signed in and ready to go for the exams, and though she should have been nervous. Himawari honestly wasn’t. For her it wasn’t the end of the day if she didn’t get her license it wasn’t the end of the world for her.

That was what Todoroki admired about her, she lived in the moment and didn’t dwell on what could be wrong. She knew when to fight, and be strong but she also understood it was okay to relax, to be afraid, or just take a step back. 

 “This place is huge..” the music had been turned off for the moment from her ears, since the second the bus stopped and everyone started unloading. That was when Aizawa gave his little speech, thanks to the full efforts of Mineta’s chicken ass. He did not deserve to be a hero. 

“Hey.. Himawari..?” Blonde hair bounced upon her shoulders, Todoroki’s gaze turning to the blonde beauty he feld feelings for. Mina standing with Ochoco, the little pink on the shorter girls shoulder. “C-Could you sing a little something for us who are nervous… We could use a pick me up.” He knew what she was asking, she wanted you to use your quirk on them. Her golden smile flashed behind them, you loved to sing for your class. 

“Yeah, sure thing Uraraka.. feeling nervous huh?” The small bean nodded, taking a step back to join the rest of her class. “Hey Jirou~” shuffling her way over to the Earphone Jack hero her soft pink lips whispered with a small smile. After hooking up Himawari’s phone to Jirou’s speaker boots the music started playing fairly quickly, along with her voice. 

Everything surrounding me, leaving me with nothing left to sayImagine it grasping itit feels so far away. Whoa

Two lines, two lines of a song from her voice was all it took for people to turn to the class group. Of course they liked, it everyone loved her voice when they heard it. Todoroki knew that, and watched her closely. Her voice always filled him with joy, and love. Whatever she was singing about, he could feel it.

With the look on everyones faces who was turned, listening to the Songbird of U.A. Class 1-A he could see they were enjoying it too. She wasn’t even trying to project, she was just singing enough for her class but god was she just amazing in his eyes. 

I’m my own hero.

She sang for her class with such confidence, trying to send that emotion, that vibe, that trust to those who was nervous. She was already a hero to him. A small, soft smile left on his lips. 

I’ll shed all my tears, drop all my fearsEven if I don’t bloom, am I a hero to you? 

She counted to three with her own fingers, holding up a fist at the end. Pluuuus-

“ULTRA!” another, unfamiliar voice had joined into chanting the groups school motto. Todoroki having made his way, was standing next to Himawari now, along with her best friends Mina and Jirou. He showed up behind Kirishima, nearly scaring the daylights out of the poor boy. 

“Don’t go crashing the circles of outsiders without being invited. Inasa.” there were two others who followed in behind the boy. He was taller than most of the boys in their own class, dark hair and eyes with broad shoulders. He gave a very forward, forceful bow. Smashing his head onto the ground.

“PLEASE ACCEPT. MY SINCEREST. APOLOGIES.”

“Oh god. Oh god. Are you okay!?” Himawari got down on her knees, to his level looking shocked and panic. “That must have hurt.”

“NOT AT ALL MISS. I AM PERFECTLY FINE IN YOUR PRESENCE.” this boy was very forward, and had a large smile across his face. It wasn’t as shocking scary as people thought it would have been. It was kind of sweet. Until he started speaking again. “I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO SAY IT JUST ONCE, ‘PLUS ULTRA’. IT’S SUCH A PLEASURE, THE HIGHEST HONOR, TO COMPETE AGAINST YUUEI”

There was something off about it, and Todoroki couldn’t quite put a finger on it. Turning away, he spoke her name so casually. “Come on Himawari.. Let’s get inside.” He turned away completely, watching her stand and nod in his direction. He liked to think they were pretty close friends as he had told himself as well, when he gets his provisional license, he would confess to her. 

“Coming Shouto~” She sang her voice, and turned on her heel to join him, that was when Inasa called her name. Once she laid her Caribbean sea eyes on the boy. He changed completely. He was calmer, standing up and had wiped the blood from his forehead. 

“Forgive me for calling you by your first name like that, but I think your very beautiful Miss. Himawari and I was wondering if we could exchange emails!?” He was a little excited again, you could tell he was feeling a little nervous but tried to keep his cool. Shouto turned, to face them both. “WE SHOULD GO OUT.”

“I- uhh. thank you, Inasa, I am greatful for the compliment, but are you sure its appropriate for you be asking a rival school girl out like this before the exam?” She had a point, crossing one foot in front of the other and holding her hand behind her back. Her cheeks were flushed, Mina giggled in the background. Please say no, was all the half and half quirk user could think. His eyebrows creased into a furrowing brow.

“To be completely honest, none of that is of concern to me right now!” Inasa, had taken a breath, trying to calm down.If you looked closely, you could see Todoroki trying to prevent steams of anger coming from his left side. This jerk, this nobody from another school was asking out his crush. 

Shouto’s heart felt heavy, he didn’t know what to think but he knew he felt not only anger, or being upset. Inasa continued. “It would be such a privilege to go out with a lovely lady such as yourself.” He bowed again, but this time it was gentler, he didn’t throw himself at the ground, simply bend at the waist. The familiar soft giggle her classmate heard often left her lips. He knew what she was going to say, his heart felt heavy, his stomach felt sick. Todoroki was shocked. 

“Tell you what… come find me after the exam. I’ll give you an answer then.”