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arrieebooks · 2 years ago

Text

Safe

Precious Weapon Drabble somewhere after chapter 7.

Pairing : Lloyd Hansen x F!OC x Sierra Six.

Summary : Lloyd saves her from a dangerous mission when he wasn't supposed to interfere at all.

Warnings : Kidnapping. Hurt. Bruises. Blood. Abuse. Almost sexual assault. Guns. Mass murder. Gore. Angst. Fighting. Yelling. Unrealistic healing. Fluff a little.

Word count : 4.2k words.

Author's note : I've moved away from Jakarta now in Bali and I'm still writing about Jakarta lol! Anyhow, I've figured I wrote a lot of smut drabbles before and wanted to write something different. Hope you'll enjoy it!

***

This was all a part of their mission.

But, Lloyd just had to ruin it because of her. Because he couldn't bear to watch her getting beaten up on and on again. Because he thought that they were going to eventually kill her. Because for a moment there, he was actually genuinely scared.

He compromised the mission all for her. Something he thought he'd never do during his whole career in the CIA. He was always so disciplined and focused on every single mission he's done. Just not this time. Not when it comes to her.

The plan was that she goes undercover to a fancy gala party in a mansion located at the center of Jakarta, alone. They needed to obtain some incriminating evidence of a high class criminal. She purposefully made them think that she was undercover with the police.

So, they tied her up in the basement and interrogated her. While this all happened, the team and Six quietly searched the house.

But, those thugs didn't just force her to answer some questions. They tortured her. Beat her up with their dirty knuckles over and over again at the same time. Her face was filled with bruises and blood, even though she healed already a few seconds later. She wasn't even in pain, though. It felt so light to her like they barely even touched her.

Lloyd had to watch all that from their car, in the surveillance cameras. He grimaced and slightly flinched every time one of them punched her. He could see her bruised eyes looking up at the camera for a second, just to tell him to not try anything. She knew he was watching.

Yet, of course, he ignored her. Especially after seeing one of the guys trying to rip her dress from her thigh and the other one pulled a gun out of his pocket to point it to her head.

He immediately went out of their car with a bulletproof vest on his chest and an enormous gun in his hands. He entered the basement, guns blazing and swiftly shooting every single man in there who was putting their hands on her. There were a total of eight men. They all collapsed dead on the floor, huge amounts of blood spilling out of them. The room only reeked of blood and the smoke from the gun. She wanted to throw up at the scene in front of her.

Lloyd was still holding the gun, breathing heavily while staring down at her, who's still tied up on the chair and he froze. Her big, brown eyes were wide, scanning the dead bodies on the floor as she gasped in shock. Everything happened way too fast for her.

"What the hell did you just do?" Elle breathes out, finally looking up at him in horror.

He doesn't answer her. Instead, he walked around her and untied her hands from behind the chair.

He goes to stand beside her. "We need to go." Lloyd flatly tells her, gently grabbing her arm to help her stand up.

But, she shrugs off his hand and easily rises up from the chair. She glares up at him with a scowl and their faces are only an inch apart. She could feel his breath against her skin and smell his signature perfume.

"What the fuck, Lloyd? You weren't supposed to do that." she argues.

"We'll talk about this later at home." Lloyd simply replies, his eyes bore into hers.

She rolls her eyes, her hand shoves his chest and he almost falls from how strong she is. "You fucking asshole. You couldn't just wait for one second? You had to ruin this mission?" she snaps sharply at him.

He huffs frustratedly, sighing heavily and he stares directly at her eyes even from a distance. Her chest is heaving as she frowns, looking up at him in anger.

His jaw clenches and he's trying his best to not explode. "They were about to shoot you. Or rape you. I don't know, but they were definitely about to do something worse to you." Lloyd hesitantly tells her. He's not exactly telling the truth and she knows it. She knows him too well.

She shakes her head, scoffing loudly. "I could've handled it myself. I didn't need your help. I'm not your damsel in fucking distress, Lloyd! This was an important mission for me." Elle yells at him, stepping closer to him.

Lloyd avoids her eyes. "The mission is fine. Six got the evidence." he informs her.

She sighs, nodding. "Great, then you didn't have to do that. I would've fought them and escaped by myself. Do you not think I'm capable of saving myself? Do I need another CIA training from you?" She confronts him, pushing his buttons.

She's not scared of him anymore. She used to be. But after getting to know the real him, she figured him all out. But right now, she's confused on why he saved her like that. He massacred everyone just like that. It wasn't like him. He takes his missions very seriously just like her. He would've never done anything like this.

He frowns at her. "They were dangerous guys, Elle. Maybe your strength wouldn't have been enough to fight them. I couldn't…" Lloyd trails off, not wanting to finish his sentence.

She squints her eyes, knitting her eyebrows as she tilts her head to the side. "What? You could've what, Lloyd? Tell me. What made you commit mass murder within seconds for me?" she asks.

Lloyd swallows thickly, glaring down at her and he takes her upper arm to pull her closer to his body. "I did it for you. I wasn't going to just sit there and watch you get ruined by a bunch of morons." he grits out, still not fully admitting the real reason why he did it.

She scoffs again, looking up at his blue eyes. "Fucking hell. You know how much I hate bloodshed. We were about to throw them into jail. And you just killed them. This is not a good look." Elle complains, actually making a point. She has no clue what she's going to tell Denny. The CIA doesn't sanction mass murders. Especially like this one.

He sighs quietly. "Their boss will be there. This whole scene will be cleaned up by the team. Let's just get back home. Say whatever you want to me there." Lloyd calmly tells her, extending his hand to her.

She huffs softly but takes his hand anyway and lets him guide her to the exit, carefully walking over the dead bodies.

***

Once they're all safely back at the penthouse, they all went to their own bedrooms so they could get all cleaned up. This was their usual routine after every mission.

It's already late at night now since the gala started at 8pm earlier. The city was quiet on their way back home. They all wanted to just jump on their bed and go to sleep right away. The debrief with Denny can wait until tomorrow morning even though they have no idea what they're going to tell him after that disaster.

After she came out of the bathroom all freshen up, Six was already sitting on her bed, waiting for her. He turns his head to her and he has that look on his face when he's very concerned. It's rare because he only gets worried for the only two people he cares about in the world. Lloyd and Elle.

He stands up, calmly walking to her as she looks at him up and down. He's wearing his usual white t-shirt and gray sweatpants, feeling comfortable already. "We need to talk about Lloyd. I'm worried." Court tells her, furrowing his eyebrows.

She nods slowly, standing close to him. "Me too. I have no idea what to say to Denny now. That was a fucking massacre." she remarks.

He shakes his head quietly. "It's so unlike him to compromise a mission. He's never done anything like this before. It's so weird, Elle." he admits.

She shrugs lightly, anxiously biting her bottom lips. "Maybe he shouldn't have watched the surveillance cameras." she says to him.

Six frowns before sighing softly. "He watched them, of course he did. I told him not to, no matter what. He didn't listen." he tells her.

She exhales, massaging her temples. "Fuck, why did he even have to step in? He kept telling me that they looked like they were about to rape me or shoot me in the head but I could've defended myself. I didn't need him to kill them."

Court nods, gently holding her hands between his. "But you're okay, right?" he genuinely asks her.

Her lips slowly curve into a faint smile as she nods her head. "Yeah, I told you I'd be fine if they were possibly going to torture me. It barely even hurt me. Their punches were very weak." she answers casually.

He breaks into a small chuckle. "Well, I hope that we don't have to do anything like that again. I wouldn't be able to just sit there and watch you get tortured like that. I'm pretty sure I'd do the same thing that Lloyd did. But�� still, that wasn't acceptable." Six bluntly admits.

She hums in response before realizing something and she knits her eyebrows. "Oh. Why would you have done that?" she curiously asks, trying to find a reason.

Court frowns. "Because you mean a lot to me and I don't want you to suffer through the same thing that happened a few weeks ago." he tells her the truth.

Her eyes widen and her lips part in slight shock. "That's it. That's why Lloyd did it." she figures it out, finally.

Six cocks his head to the side and furrows his eyebrows confusedly. "Really? I didn't know that he was still thinking about it. I mean, I did ask him several times and he kept saying that he was over it."

"Well, clearly not." she mutters before sighing softly. "Instead of telling me about it, he prefers to go on a killing spree for me."

He shakes his head. "That's just because he doesn't know how to express his feelings properly. You should talk to him, honey. Get things cleared up." Court murmurs affectionately.

She looks at him and exhales. "Alright then, fine. But wait here for me."

Six simply nods, caressing her cheek quickly and his eyes gazes openly at her. He's always liked how compassionate and kind she can be. Despite everything that Lloyd just did, she's still willing to come to him so she could comfort him. "Of course. Always." he replies.

She gives him a small kiss on his cheek before stepping away from him.

***

Her knuckles gently knock on Lloyd's bedroom door. "Hey, it's me." she softly says through the white door.

"Yeah, come in, Elle." he calmly tells her and she opens the door almost immediately.

Closing the door behind her, she slowly enters his room hesitantly as she looks around his very neat bedroom. He cleans it himself every morning after he wakes up. He hates to see anything messy or dirty around him. He's a perfectionist.

Her eyes search for him and find him on the white couch near the window, resting his legs on the coffee table in front of him. He's looking at the night view of the city while holding a cup of hot tea. He has been contemplating on what he just did earlier. It's still stuck in his mind.

"Are you here to yell at me again?" Lloyd asks weakly, without even looking at her yet.

She sighs, walking over to the couch. "No, I am not. I just want to talk." she gently says.

He shrugs. "What else is there to say? I know what I did was wrong, Elle, and I only did it because of you. I wish I'd listened to Six when he told me not to watch the surveillance cameras but I didn't." he admits to her, for the first time in his life. He's actually admitting that he's wrong, putting aside his ego for once. For her.

Elle sits next to him, placing her hand on his thigh. "I know why you actually did it. It's okay, Lloyd. You don't have to explain yourself. I understand now." she murmurs softly.

Lloyd finally turns to her and meets her eyes. His face looks shocked but also relieved. "You do?" he genuinely asks her. No one in the world has ever said that to him. That they understand him and his actions. Sometimes, he doesn't even understand himself. But she does, she truly does. He can see it in her eyes. It's real and sincere.

She nods, observing his face closely and he has a small scar on his temple, a result of some idiot slicing it with a knife. She didn't see this earlier because he was covered in blood and sweat. Plus, she was too focused on yelling at him instead of looking at his face.

She tilts her head to the side, staring back at his eyes. "Let me heal you," she whispers.

Lloyd's eyes slowly look down at her, quietly admiring her bare face. She's so fucking perfect to him. It's not only her beauty, but it's her kind and gentle heart that really impresses him. He has never met anyone like her. She's rare and precious. He wishes he could keep her forever.

He shakes his head lightly, gazing openly at her. "You don't have to. You're tired after all that." he softly says.

She slowly smiles at him and he fucking loves it whenever she smiles. He adores her beautiful smile. "Healing you doesn't really take that much out of me. It's a small scar, it's no biggie for me." she casually says.

Lloyd simply nods, not saying anything anymore because he doesn't have to. They can just sit here in silence while she heals him.

Her hand reaches out to his temple as her eyes move up to focus on his scar. She touches it and he doesn't even flinch. He used to hate it when someone touched his scar because it's a sensitive part for him. A vulnerable one. But right now, he's allowing her to do it because he trusts her enough to be vulnerable with her. Just this once. Just for her.

His eyes follow her every movement before she suddenly tips her head up and brushes her soft lips against his temple. He's frozen as she kisses his scar, which magically heals within less than a second. It's so intimate and affectionate. She usually only heals them with her hands but she figured out that any part of her body can heal anyone. She's so much more powerful than she thinks she is.

He feels so soft and light from her kiss. Her kiss might just be the purest thing in his life. It could save him from anything bad. She's the only thing in the world that matters to him. Nothing else matters. Not anymore.

She gives his healed skin one last kiss before pulling away from him. He regards her with a soft look and a small smile. "Thank you." Lloyd thanks her sincerely as she smiles back.

"Of course." Elle replies, leaning back from him as she lays down on the other side of the couch. Wordlessly, he gently grabs her legs and places them on top of his thighs. This was their usual comfortable position whenever they sat together on the living room's couch. They've never sat here before, on the couch of his bedroom. His room's usually a little more reserved for him only.

Lloyd rests his hands on her legs, staring at her and his face relaxes. "So, what are we planning to tell Denny tomorrow morning?" she calmly asks him.

He gazes openly at her and blinks. "The truth, sweetheart." he softly answers.

She tilts her head to the side and frowns. "Are you sure?"

Lloyd nods, without hesitation. "Yeah, I'm sure."

She shakes her head in disapproval. "No, come on, that's not exactly fair. You did it for me because you care too much about me to let me get raped or tortured worse. We can't tell that to Denny. Plus, he can't know about our… thing. It's unprofessional." She makes a point.

He sighs, knowing damn well she's right. She's always right. "Fine, we'll corroborate the right story. One that's closer to the truth. We'll tell him that they were about to kill you with a gun and you're not immune to a bullet to your head.'' Lloyd suggests a better story.

Her lips tug into a wide smile. "Yeah, that's more like it." she approves.

He shoots her a small smile, observing her face again up and down. "Shouldn't you be going to bed by now, with Six?" he plainly asks her.

She hums in response, her head leaning comfortably on the couch and her eyelids start to feel heavy. "Yeah, but I'm too sleepy to even get up or walk there." she mumbles softly.

"I'll carry you." Lloyd immediately responds.

He may just have committed mass murder a few hours ago, but he's still willing to help her with what she needs anytime. She's become his number one priority nowadays. She doesn't even have to ask most of the time, he already knows what she wants. He knows her. Too well, sometimes.

She scrunches her nose lightly. "No. I mean, sure, but later. I want to lay here for a while, if that's okay with you." she mutters, her hand weakly reaching out to his and he holds it gently.

Lloyd lets out a soft chuckle, staring at her deeply. "Of course, sunshine." he quickly replies and she's already shutting her eyes, falling asleep in his touch.

***

He's been too focused on watching her sleep that he's already let her sleep on his couch for almost half an hour now.

She's just so pretty when she sleeps. Especially when she lightly snores. He finds it so cute.

Her heartbeat is steady and calm as he's been keeping an eye on her breathing. To make sure she's alive and this is real. It's been a while since they've slept together, just them. The last time was the night before the whole disaster happened. That was almost two weeks ago now. And she only slept with him because she had a fight with Six and she couldn't sleep. He was always her second option.

But right now, he isn't. She chose to be here, sleeping in his not-so-big couch that barely fits both of them. She feels safe and comfortable with him and that's all that matters.

A knock on his door snapped him back to reality and he already knows who it is. He's not going to answer the door because he doesn't want to wake her up.

The door gently and quietly opens as Six slowly steps inside his room, searching for them on the bed. He turns to the other side of the room and finds Elle asleep with Lloyd wide awake, watching her sleep on the couch. Her legs are laid on his thighs and their hands are tangled together. It's a nice sight for him. He's always wanted them to be closer than they already are. Because he knows just how much Lloyd needs her in his life even if he doesn't think that.

Six's face finally relaxes and he genuinely smiles at them. He meets Lloyd's eyes as they exchange looks.

His lips form a thin line. "Sorry. I was supposed to carry her back to her room." Lloyd apologizes softly.

He shakes his head, walking to the other couch across from them as he sits on it. "No, it's fine. I'm glad you guys talked it out." Court calmly replies, talking as quietly as possible.

Lloyd nods slowly, almost smiling at him. "Yeah, I'm sorry about earlier. I know that weirded you out. You've never seen me do anything like that before." he genuinely says. He truly means it. He knows what he's been thinking since they came home but Six never is the type to directly say everything on his mind. Lloyd just knows him too well already. He learned to crack the unreadable man.

Six nods casually. "It's okay. I get it, you were protecting her. I'd do the same if I were you watching the footage of her being beaten up. You know that. We don't have any limits when it comes to her protection." he assures him, feeling relieved that Lloyd's telling him all this. He usually doesn't say everything on his mind. But as of now, he feels safe to tell all his secrets to Six. He trusts him more than any man in the world. More than Denny, even.

He hums in response, staring at him for a while as he contemplates. "You know, I was wrong when I said that she sees me as the bad guy. She doesn't. She gets me. And you do too. I'm very fucking lucky to have both of you on my side." Lloyd bluntly confesses, his lips tugging into a relaxed smile.

Six breaks into a soft chuckle. "Well, this is new of you, confessing things to me." he points out.

Lloyd shrugs, his smile still lingering for him. "Yeah, well, you're a trustable man. I trust you to keep all of my deepest, darkest secrets." he admits truthfully, looking down at her, still peacefully sleeping and it reminds him of her request earlier. She doesn't look too comfortable in this tiny couch and he could tell by the way her body squeezes in unconsciously.

He looks back up at Court. "I'll carry her to her room." Lloyd softly announces and the blonde simply nods, standing up from his seat.

She lightly stirs in her sleep when Lloyd carefully lifts her head and carries her entire body, bridal-style, while he gets up from the couch, effortlessly. Her head rests against his chest as his large arms hold her back and her legs, delicately. He quickly glances down at her again to check up on her and her eyes are still closed.

Wordlessly, Six walks to the door and quietly opens it for them as Lloyd brings her out of his room and into their hallway. The door closes behind them while they all walk towards her bedroom, which has already been wide opened. Somehow, he knew that she was already asleep in Lloyd's room so he was prepared to carry her here. He's always carrying her and he likes it. It's their special thing. But, he doesn't mind sharing it with the other man. He's willing to share everything with him.

Lloyd enters her room first with Court behind him, closing the door silently. He crouches down to place her on the bed as fragile as possible and lays her down gently. Pulling the blanket up, he spreads it all over her and tugs her into bed.

"You don't want to sleep here?" Six genuinely asks him as he walks around her bed to get to the other side of the bed, his side. He stops to stare at Lloyd, knitting his eyebrows where as he's just blankly staring at him, confused.

He frowns, shaking his head. "No, uh, maybe next time. I mean, we haven't asked her yet. I just… want to give her space after what happened. But don't tell her that." Lloyd clarifies and as much as Six wants to tell her so there won't be any miscommunication between the both of them but he's still respecting his decision anyway. He trusts him enough to tell him this so the least he could do is keep it a secret.

Eventually, Six nods his head, understanding him. He knows that Lloyd also needs some space after everything. He knows the man. "Alright, then. Good night." he murmurs softly and he nods back, turning around to walk towards the door.

He slowly gets on the bed, pulling the blanket a little to spread on him too. Court lays down comfortably beside her and instinctively, she moves toward him in her sleep. She could feel his heat around her body. Always have. He looks down at her, placing his arm around her shoulders as her body automatically curls up against his. Her head buries down on his chest as usual and he chuckles softly at her.

Lloyd's hand hold the door handle before turning around for one last time. His eyes observe them both, cozily cuddling each other with no care in the world. He almost wished, hoped that someday, she would be as close to him like this, every night. Almost.

"Good night, Six. Sweet dreams." Lloyd whispers sincerely, actually meaning it. He cares about both of their well-beings. Only them. He didn't think he'd care this much about them, but he does now. Way too much, in truth. He'd do anything in the world to keep them safe. And that was his problem.

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aramonta · 5 months ago

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[ ni ni, cis-woman, she/her ] Look who just landed! ARAMONTA XIA WEI , I sure hope you packed all you need. Perhaps you’re not worried as the HEAD OF INTERPLANETARY MARKETS of REDROCK (INVESTMENT COMPANY). The city has plenty of spots for a 33 year old SIGHIR like you. You’ll be known in the city soon enough as THE SPEAR PILLAR, being ASSIDUOUS and SELF-CENTERED.

OOC INFO

Ven, PST, she/they

Muse’s Name(s): Aramonta Xia Wei, Reyna Jazmyn Dizon

Tagging System: HERE

Intro: HERE

STATISTICS

Full Name: Aramonta Xia Wei, 煒霞

Nickname: Monty

Date of Birth: November 1, 2372

Gender: Cis-woman

Pronouns: She/her

Sexual Orientation: Questioning

Romantic Orientation: Questioning

Current Age: 33

Modification: SIGHIR

Affiliation: Unaffiliated

Birthplace: New Jakarta, Mars

Current Neighbourhood: Sora

Occupation: Head of Interplanetary Markets of REDROCK, a multinational, multi-planet, near-galactic investment company

Known Languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesian, Japanese, English, Arabic, French

APPEARANCE

Faceclaim: Ni Ni

Height: 5'7"

Eye Colour: Reddish Brown, her near-constant Sighir usage leaves a red colour, like a filter or sometimes a luster, over her brown irises

Hair Colour: Dark

Clothing Style: loves silk, soft and breezy, custom designed clothing, often defaults to business casual/formal, has so many suit variants, reserves dresses and gowns for galas, doesn't understand dressing down, monogrammed everything

Jewelry: multiple rings on both hands, hand chains as everyday fashion, earrings for specific situations, necklace made from family heirloom gold, nipple stuff (cause she was curious and still doesn't understand the hype)

Tattoos: N/A

Marks/Scars: Scarification of three phoenixes over her spine (an homage to Bixia Yuanjun, the Chinese Taoist Goddess of the dawn, childbirth, and destiny)

Modifications: N/A

Scent/Fragrance: Tom Ford Myrrhe Mystère

PERSONALITY

Positive Traits: driven, passionate, adaptable, confident

Neutral Traits: pragmatic, amoral, reserved, realistic

Negative Traits: apathetic, impatient, unsympathetic

Peeves: Scraping silverware, loud people, meetings that should have been an email, being late

Fears: Society’s ruin, failure, losing her fish

Skills: business acumen & development, analytical reasoning, risk management, professionalism, rapport building

Goals: Hostile takeover of Redrock, social stability

FAVOURITES

Likes: Dumdum the goldfish and Alastair the Koi, numbers, watching popcorn pop

Dislikes: Wasting time, condensation that appears on food after you put it in the fridge/leftovers, doctors/hospitals

Hobbies: Football, Piloting, Meditation, Collecting Archival fashion

Habits: Using SIGHIR for pain transference, forgetting to drink water, keeping snacks in her pockets

One Cherished Item: Dumdum

OVERVIEW

Her father was a rags-to-riches story, who started as a boots-on-the-ground terraformer who rose up the ranks to become the President and CEO of the ASPECT company. Its name is an acronym for AeroSPace, Exploration, Colonization, and Terraforming. ASPECT made significant contributions to Mars colonization, habitation, and terraformation. Her mother became the CFO of REDROCK and was from a family with deep roots in global business which naturally evolved and scaled up to the interplanetary stage. When they met, she was charmed by the silver fox and it didn’t take long for them to embark on a journey to become a family. Aramonta had a warm upbringing and had never been without her parents’ love. She was free to find her direction and experience things independently, but her parents’ busy careers often left her without their gentle guidance. Maybe that was why things sometimes slipped through the cracks of their attention and they missed the initial signs of her illness. She was three when she wished she could tell her nanny that breathing made everything feel like knives stabbing inside of her whole body, but she couldn’t find the words through her screams or sobs. She thought that the pain would never stop, but just as the nanny was ready to call her parents, it did. While she caught her breath, she realized that her nanny was screaming in her stead, and for the first time, her eyes took on their reddish sheen. When her parents came home, they removed the hysterical caretaker and did their best to find a suitable replacement but each one afterwards suffered the same fate. This strange recurring situation wasn’t problematic for the Wei family. Instead, it was a complicated inconvenience. Through a series of secretive tests, Aramonta’s parents learned of her SIGHIR nature and recognized her need for stand-ins. They readily, and at one point, desperately, found staff members appropriate for her condition to buy more time. Still, this solution was nothing close to a permanent cure and not without lasting repercussions. Pain was an excellent teacher but Aramonta couldn't remember the last time she took a lesson from pain in the form of a first-hand experience. While her body tore itself apart, she largely lived her life painlessly by callously utilizing others to move toward the extremes and redefine expectations. Her parents, unable to part with their cherished daughter, did little to limit her. As part of her masquerade, she continued the family legacy and became an emerging leader in finance. Aramonta was quickly named the poster child for bridging the wealth gap and creating accessible avenues for financial well-being. Optically, she was a young and fit thirty-something uniquely positioned to change systems and influence industries toward equitable solutions. However, reality as she understood it was fundamentally unjust, and despite its imperfection, as her parents put it, it was still worth saving. Resources were limited and the systems to procure them were fragile, so her real purpose was to maintain the systems to ensure society's existence while selling market manipulation in a pretty box as inequity reduction. Raised by the belief that she could do anything, she met her family’s greatest expectations and exceeded them. She was already wearing shoes thought to never be filled by her so all that was next was to carry worlds on her shoulders. Between the tasks of caring for society and her race against time, the latter terrified her. After all, who could replace her?

FUN FACTS

The Spear Pillar refers to a spear in Shinto mythology, that was used to create a bridge between heaven and earth.

Dumdum the goldfish is an oranda goldfish with a multi-coloured cap that makes it look dog-like. She received Dumdum from her mother. Alastair the koi fish was given to her by her father. Every birthday, all she asks from her parents is for a fish. She has fish on Earth, in space, on ships, and on Mars.

She has a Filipino nanny turned personal chef named Magdalena Santos, or Maggie for short. Monty respectfully calls her Nanay Maggie, with Nanay meaning "mother" in Tagalog, her nanny's native tongue. She has managed to survive Monty's sighir.

She also has a butler named Walter. He typically handles the less-than-savoury tasks that would leave Nanay Maggie sick.

#about — aramonta #ignitedintro #ignitedtask01 #ooc [i'll return to make a better banner some other time. shakes fist]

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ignitedfms · 5 months ago

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00000 - - INTERVIEW INCOMING - - - 001

001101 1- - ARE you A LOCAL OF MARS OR HAVE you LANDED HERE RECENTLY? WHAT IS your OPINION OF THE CITY OF NEW JAKARTA? - 00011011

A glint of amusement danced briefly in her eyes before she smoothed her quirked brows and pressed her lips into a straight line. Aramonta tilted her head back against her chair, closed her eyes, and hummed. Though inconvenient, meetings like this broke up days of tedium and provided her with some entertainment. “Clearly…” She began, “A local.” she swallowed a chuckle as she lazily lifted a hand and drew small circles with her wrist, half heartedly gesturing at their surroundings. With vaulted ceilings, windows for walls, and bare essential furnishings, her office felt closer to a high end interrogation room than an executive’s chosen place of work. Largely empty, the office was spotless, free of any indication of her origins or the fiduciary chaos that normally accompanied multimarket manipulation. Still, she deliberately chose to have this meeting in the middle of nothing. If this overseer or the board was going to waste her time, it was only fair that she returned the favour.

Aramonta could feel herself almost yawn. “Repetition isn't always a good sign, but I don't blame you for crossing your t's.” Sometimes that was all that anyone was good for. “I was born here, as stated in the records, and it's home. Though, recently I came back from a business trip on Earth. Davos.” She followed her thought with a bloated pause.

“NEW JAKARTA certainly isn't like anything on Earth, but it is a necessary development.” She gently tapped her lips with a finger and allowed herself a small smirk. “Growth shouldn't be limited by planetary restrictions.”

0101022 - - ARE you AWARE OF THE CRIMINAL CIRCUIT OF NEW JAKARTA? WOULD you BE WILLING TO INFORM THE OVERSEERS IF you SEE ANYTHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY? - 001200

“If I didn't pay attention, I wouldn't be able to provide financial advice in good faith.” She kept the news on during work, often splitting her attention between Earth news and the UNN. Though if asked, she preferred the reporting at UNN; their reporters felt more polished than Earth based ones. “Here at Redrock, it's our goal to help others experience financial well being. Bad things can affect good people and markets. Generally speaking, if anything sets our financial institutions toward the dire straits, everyone is fucked. Those with the ability to ensure that resources keep flowing should be informed.” She didn't have faith in the overseers though. Societies and whole worlds were funded by corruption. If anyone wanted to go on a crusade to rid NEW JAKARTA of bullshit, Aramonta wouldn't be able to genuinely wish them good luck.

000111311 - - HAVE you BEEN TESTED FOR ANY TRACES OF SIGHIR? HAVE your TESTS ON THE VIRUSES COME BACK CLEAN? - 0012133

At this point, she decided that the meeting was no longer fun and let out a heavy sigh, hoping to rid herself of the pressure on her chest. She hated doctors. “Yes…” They always reminded her of how little time she had and that one day her body would betray her. She lived inside of a ticking time bomb. “Not a trace.” She lied. The only way she could manage through her pain was to capitalize on SIGHIR. It didn't make the chronic illness go away but at least she couldn't feel it. She imagined that her status as a SIGHIR would complicate her job and inevitably rattle the financial world, so her family provided the resources to erase that fact.

“Clean bill of health, in regards to the viruses.” She was already dying and had no interest in dying faster. The experience didn't seem all that intriguing to her and quite frankly seemed like a waste of time. “I have no desire to spread disease, just financial wellbeing~.” Aramonta sing-songed, trying to distract and move on from the topic of her health.

0113114 - - DO you HAVE ANYTHING TO DECLARE? WEAPONS, AUGMENTATIONS, MECHANICAL PARTS OR AI-RELATED? - 0012444

“Yes!” She answered the next question without batting an eye. “My goldfish. My fish passed customs with no problem." She wasn't going to regale her guest with a story about how she missed some of the business conference on Earth because she took her fish to an Earth based veterinarian. Aramonta believed that Dumdum the goldfish deserved some privacy, just as she did. “Obviously not. I have no reason to possess any of those assets.” It was easier for the entities and movements she invested in to handle those parts. If she didn't have to, she wasn't going to dirty her hands when they were already preoccupied with ensuring the flow of resources to and from New Jakarta.

“Time’s up. See yourself out.” She clapped her hands together. “The exchange is about to open and I've got a meeting with the economic committee shortly after that. Politicians get huffy when you're late and the last thing anyone needs is a follow up hearing. I bet even UNN hates reporting on those… but then again, you don't seem like the type to watch news so never mind your pretty little head. Off you go.”

#ignitedinterview #new rp #scifi rp #city rp #plot driven rp #crime rp #semi appless rp #lsrp #fantasy rp #mature rp #literate rp

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edupunkn00b · 1 year ago

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Decoherence, Ch. 7: Probabilities

Creative Commons 1.0 Public Domain

Prev - Probabilities - Next - Masterpost - [ AO3 ] - Playlist

“It takes two to tango, but only one to seriously fuck up some shit.” -Non-zero Probabilities by N.K. Jeminsin

WC: 1768 - Rated: T - CW: swearing -

2113, October 19, Jakarta, Indonesia

Remus woke with a start, a thin sheen of sticky sweat from the morning’s heat already coating his skin. He groaned and rolled out of bed, stripping off the sheets to let them hang in the sun. The barometer was steady, so while the lack of rain meant no relief from the oppressive humidity, it also meant he could leave the bedding to sun dry without fear of returning home to it being soaked in a sudden downpour. The sheets would do well enough with a little sun-freshening. He wouldn’t have enough of his water ration saved up until the end of the week, anyway.

Laundry would have to wait.

After a two minute sunshower, he dressed and dragged his hands through still-damp hair before stepping into his sandals and snagging his bag. He’d grab breakfast from a vendor, no need to heat up his tiny kitchen or open the fridge unless it was completely necessary.

He stepped outside and squinted against the sun’s glare, the flash of a passing bus and its rhythmic thud over potholes giving him the illusion of a subway blasting past. He shook his head. He hadn’t seen a subway since his university days, when Boston had finally decommissioned the CAT, Big Dig be damned, and converted it into the high speed tunnel between MIT and Harvard. Nirwan was out with his delicious-scented cart and he waved, jaywalking through slow-moving taxis and the stupidly rich—and richly stupid—who bothered with them. He could walk to work faster than the cars and rickshaws could get there. Backwards.

“Selamat pagi,” he grinned and bowed his head. “What’s good this morning?”

“Ah, Mr. Prince, it’s all good,” Nirwan laughed, playing along with his joke. “How are you this morning?” he asked and plucked a sheet of foil, flipping a kerak telor onto it without looking. “Any luck with your devices?” He tapped the side of his cart. “You should tell your boss, mine works great… Siti across the street offered me ten million rupiah for it.”

Remus laughed, “I’ll keep that in mind.” He bowed his head again and paid for the proffered packet before zipping it into his bag. Nirwan pretended not to notice when he overpaid for his breakfast. The man had long since given up on giving Remus change. “Smells great, Nirwan,” he smiled, looking at the rest of his wares. “Hey, can I get an extra order of roti ganjel for Lo? It’s his favorite.”

“Lo?” he asked, preparing another pocket with savory stuffed cinnamon bread. “I thought your nephew’s name was Virgil.”

“Huh?” Remus looked up. “Yeah, it is…” He tapped his sternum, just below his collarbone. “Yeah, and um, some of those coconut klepon, too.” He grinned again, a little weaker. The sun was already getting to him. Time to get to his workshop. “Thanks,” he murmured, tucking the treats away in his bag and hurrying off to the Senyan Research Center with another bow and a wave.

~~~

“Almost,” Remus muttered, slowly tightening the guide wires at the back of the dynamo. “Almost… and—” The wire snapped with a loud twang, the broken end smacking against the casing, and his socket wrench clattered to the floor. “Damn!” he swore, slapping the work bench and wiping the sweat from his eyes with a rag. It didn’t help much, the growing darkness in the workshop left the machine fuzzy on the edges.

He looked up. The room had gotten warmer, too. Remus caught sight of the clock on the wall and swore again as he picked up the wrench and unwound the busted wires from the dynamo.

“Fuck.” The building’s HVAC was cut off at 5 o’clock every night. They were luckier than most, with extra energy credits that allowed most floors to keep the power running for the full working day—and, when he was lucky, a little beyond. Higher pull machines, though… Those were all cut off. If Remus could just get this damn machine running they might be able to divert some of the energy credits they spent on lighting and the computer terminals into running the HVAC for longer. It was more efficient, anyway, to keep it going than to cycle through the power up each day.

With the HVAC out and only the barest of lighting still running, it truly was time to call it a day. He was close. The air buzzed with the energy the dynamo was collecting. He needed to find a way to store a bit more, to let it cycle in and start to run itself without the foot pedal. Unspooling the busted guide wires by feel, his fingers followed the now coiled copper. His hand grazed where the snapped wire had dinged the aluminum casing, an impressive dent for a thin, 2mm copper wire.

Maybe there was a way to salvage more of that physical potential energy. Old automatons were basically powered with something similar, if on a larger scale. Combined, it might be enough. Nodding, he coiled up a few meters of wire and tucked it into his satchel then finally called it a night and headed out into the only slightly cooler street.

~~~

On his way to Ro’s, Remus had picked up a steaming bag of mini hotcakes from a kue cubits stand. “A rat-a-tat-tat,” he called, knocking on the door, shaking the bag near the open window. “Beware geeks bearing gifts!”

Laughing, Patton opened the door, but before he could let him in, Virgil ducked under his legs and threw himself at Remus. “Unkca Re!” Virgil cheered, reaching to be picked up. “Sorry, Poppy,” he laughed, his voice rising up into a little squeal when Remus lifted him up into the air.

“No problem, Kiddo,” he grinned. “Why don’t we let Uncle Re come on in,” Patton ushered them both inside. “And you can both go wash your hands before supper.”

“Yes, sir!” Remus grinned and carried a giggling Virgil to the kitchen sink.

“Uncka Re, Poppy’s not ‘sir,’” he said, shaking his head and patting Remus’ cheek to get his attention. “He’s Poppy.”

Laughing, Remus hip checked his brother as they passed. “You did a good job with him, Ro Bro,” he winked. “None of that ‘sir’ bull—” He caught ‘Poppy’s’ eyebrow raise over Ro’s shoulder and shrugged. “Hockey?” he finished with another laugh as he set Virgil on the counter and pumped hand soap solution into each of their palms.

“Smooth, Re,” Ro laughed, tapping a wooden spoon on the edge of the saucepan. Re drew close, tearing off a bit of naan and dipping it in the soto betawi before Ro covered it. “Very smooth,” he said, gently slapping his hand away. ��Dinner will be ready in about a half hour.”

“Half hour?” Remus grinned again, eyebrows raised. “Whaddya say you help me with a little project, Vee?”

“Yes, p’ease!”

The very tip of Virgil’s tongue stuck out of the corner of his mouth as he sat on his knees next to Remus. Spread out on the patio table around them were bits of wire, several wooden blocks and a partially disassembled Slinky. The setting sun had finally brought some relief from the heat and Remus felt his second wind, a fog lifting away from his thinking mind. The last of his heat headache had dissipated and his smile had grown relaxed as he pointed to the tension point in the coiled wire.

“Now, watch,” he murmured and Virgil looked even closer, eyes wide as he nodded rapidly. “When I let go of this side, the other block will jump across the table.” The little boy giggled and he sat back before Remus had to remind him, plucking his safety goggles from the top of his head and placing them solemnly over his eyes.

“I’m ready,” he said, nodding again. He bounced gently in his seat and Remus chuckled when he realized he was doing the same, his own knee bouncing under the table.

“Okay, three-two-one,” he counted down aloud then released one side of the spring. He silently counted the bounces and picked up a pencil to mark the number.

“Four,” Virgil said and Remus nodded again.

“Yep, four bounces for five coils of the spring.” He marked the paper and turned it so Virgil could see. Remus wasn’t sure how much the kid could read yet, but it didn’t hurt to show him the chart. “So which one do you think was the best run?” he asked, looking down at the chart. They hadn’t hit a curve yet. Maybe they needed a different gauge of wire, or a smaller spiral?

Virgil stared at the paper and finally pointed to a row in the middle. “That one,” he said, voice full of Ro’s confidence.

Remus laughed. “I think so, too,” he said, ruffling the kid’s hair. “Don’t tell your Daddy but I think you’re gonna give Lo a run for his money someday.”

Head tilted, Virgil frowned. “Uncka Woe’s not here,” he said, patting Remus’s hand.

His head jerked up and the pencil rolled off the table. “What did you say?”

“Uncka Woe! Uncka Re!” Virgil’s sweet voice carries down the stone steps, not a shout, but loud and confident, just like Ro. “Papa says it’s time for dinner!”

“We’ll be right up!” Lo calls back and winks at me. “Go on,” he grins, “We have time for one more try.”

Lo’s excitement is palpable, buzzing under my skin as I give the dynamo one more crank. “Ready?”

“Ready!” he says and steps back, taking my hand in his as we watch the electric bulb glow on top of the new motor.

From the top step, we hear Virgil’s delighted laugh. “You did it, Uncka Woe!”

Reaching for Virgil’s hand, Remus crouched low to try to catch the little boy’s eyes. “Wait, Vee, what did you say?” Had he imagined it? Virgil’s words echoed in his head, layering over with phantom repetitions. A quiet whisper in a dusty barn. A murmur before he fell asleep.

“Did you hear? Dinner’s ready!” Janus called from the patio door. With a cheer, Virgil scrambled out of his seat. Shaking his head, Janus laughed. “I swear you two would stay out here all night if we let you.”

“Dinner’s ready, Uncka Re,” Virgil smiled back at him. Remus shook his head, the muffled rumble and roar of traffic, a bicycle’s bell, and someone singing two doors down rushed back into his awareness. He blinked at Virgil, who simply tugged at his hand until he stood and, slowly, followed him inside.

“Yeah… dinner,” he said, and closed the screen behind them.

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annisa--adler · 11 months ago

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TRIGGER WARNING: mental illness (depression, ptsd), eating disorders, suicide, drug mention

❀ *◦ brianne tju. genderfluid. she/they. gay. ⇝ hey, isn’t that annisa adler ? i think that the twenty-four year old from anchorage, alaska works as a receptionist at lightning griffin tattoos & dance instructor at alister’s dance hall & studio, but outside of that, people describe them as singed angel wings & the smell of burnt sugar. i hear they are secretive & overly sensitive, but they are also known to be kind-hearted & gentle. consider giving them a visit at their home in seal harbor apartments and get to know why they’re called the dreamer.

BASIC INFORMATION

NAME: Annisa Jane Adler NICKNAMES: Nisa BIRTH NAME: Bulan Susanto AGE: 24 BIRTH DATE: July 1, 2000 ZODIAC SIGN: Cancer ETHNICITY: Indonesian, Chinese GENDER: Genderfluid (she/they) ORIENTATION: Gay BIRTHPLACE: Jakarta, Indonesia OCCUPATION: Dance instructor at Alister's Dance Hall Studio & part-time receptionist at Lightning Griffin Tattoo

RELATIONSHIPS

SIBLINGS: Kurt Adler (brother, deceased), Ava Adler (sister),Cyrek Fawn (brother), Marisol Adler (sister), Donnie Adler (brother) RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Single CHILDREN: N/A

PHYSICAL TRAITS

FACE CLAIM: Brianne Tju EYE COLOUR: Brown HAIR COLOUR: Brown HEIGHT: 5′1″ WEIGHT: 115 lbs. BODY BUILD: Petite

HEALTH

ALLERGIES: N/A SMOKES?: Yes DRINKS?: Yes DRUGS?: Yes, weed on occasion CHRONIC ILLNESS: Early onset osteoporosis due to anorexia

DISORDERS

ADDICTIONS: N/A MENTAL DISORDERS: Depression, PTSD, anxiety, anorexia (in recovery) WHEN WAS THIS DIAGNOSED?: Annisa was diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and anorexia when they were 17; they were diagnosed with PTSD when they were 19

BIOGRAPHY

EARLY BEGINNINGS

Annisa was born in Jakarta, Indonesia and put up for adoption soon after birth. They were adopted when they were an infant by Carolyn and Howard Adler and were brought back to be raised in the United States

When Annisa was adopted, Carolyn and Howard already had one child that they’d adopted, Kurt. He was older than Annisa and he fiercely looked after them from day one, always playing the role of the protective older brother

At the age of 3, Annisa took their very first dance class and they were instantly hooked. Their entire life revolved around ballet and they dreamed about one day becoming a prima ballerina. Although there was pressure to look a certain way in ballet, Nisa tried their hardest to not let it bother them

As the years went on, the Adlers took in several children: Ava, Marisol, Cyrek, and Donnie. All the children became life-long siblings and the fact that not one of them shares blood makes no difference to any of them. They're a family, through and through

From a very young age, Annisa had known that they were gay. However, being raised in a religious household, they were in denial for a while before they finally accepted themselves and came out to their family as gay when they were 17

Though the children’s mother had nothing but love for her children, to bit a of fault even, their father wasn’t as forthcoming. While their mother was warm and welcoming, their father was cold and distant and eventually, push came to shove and they split

When Cyrek was 16, he attempted suicide and though Nisa wasn’t there to witness it, they’d been scared to death of losing Cy and had clung to his side in the hospital

THE BREAKING POINT

The Adlers’ lives came to a screeching halt on a spring day in 2014. Annisa was picked up early from dance class by her distraught father and she quickly found out why--Kurt had committed suicide. Suddenly, Nisa's world was in pieces

In the aftermath of Kurt’s death, Annisa felt utterly lost and blamed themselves for their brother’s death, positive that there must have been some way they could’ve helped him. They fell into a deep depression and soon after developed anorexia. They quit dance and nearly failed out of high school before their parents placed them in a treatment center to get help for their eating disorder at the age of 17

Annisa was in inpatient treatment for over a year and even after getting out of the hospital, they suffered through a cycle of recovery and relapse for years. While Nisa was lost in their disorder, they became a stranger to their family. The person that had once been soft and sweet was now deceitful, manipulative, and angry. They lashed out at anyone who questioned them too closely. While stuck in their disorder, they lost their family’s trust and for good reason

After treatment, Annisa worked to earn their GED and then went on to get an Associate’s degree in business with the goal of someday owning and opening their own dance studio

WHAT COMES AFTER THE DARK

In 2022, Nisa finally succeeded in becoming a dance instructor specializing in ballet

Annisa has now been in successful recovery for almost two years

While Nisa had identified as a woman for their entire life, recovery has helped them to rediscover themselves and in 2021, they came out as genderfluid

Within the last few years, Nisa learned that Kurt had a daughter named Ju-mi and has since become very close with her niece, whom they babysit regularly

#anchorintro #tw: mental health #tw: depression #tw: ptsd #tw: anxiety #tw: eating disorder #tw: suicide #tw: drugs mention

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celtalks · 1 year ago

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38th Golden Disc Awards: A Global Spectacle Unveiling K-Pop Excellence

K-pop enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for the highly anticipated 38th Golden Disc Awards, set to take place on Saturday, January 6, 2024. While the awards program has traditionally been accessible on YouTube, this year marks a significant shift, with Hellolive emerging as the exclusive provider for global live streaming through its dedicated app and website. The move aims to offer fans a front-row seat to the entire ceremony, from the red carpet extravaganza to the main stages, making Hellolive the eyes and ears of K-pop aficionados worldwide.

HelloLive Takes Center Stage as Exclusive Provider for Global Live Streaming

In a groundbreaking move for K-pop enthusiasts worldwide, HelloLive has stepped into the spotlight as the exclusive provider for global live streaming of the 38th Golden Disc Awards. Breaking away from the conventional YouTube platform, HelloLive's dedicated app and website will be the sole gateway for fans to witness the grandeur of the prestigious event in real-time. From the glamour of the red carpet to the electric atmosphere of the main ceremony, HelloLive aims to be the ultimate destination, becoming the eyes and ears of K-pop fans seeking an immersive and unparalleled experience of the Golden Disc Awards. This strategic shift promises a new era for live streaming platforms, placing HelloLive at the forefront of delivering the excitement and magic of the awards ceremony to a global audience. As the red carpet event kicks off at 19:00 KST (PM) and the main ceremony at 20:30 KST (PM), HelloLive's 'All In One Package' becomes the gateway for viewers to immerse themselves in the Golden Disc Awards experience. Priced at $3.9, this comprehensive package includes live streaming of both the red carpet and the awards ceremony, complemented by a real-time AI subtitle service for a seamless and inclusive viewing experience.

Notably, the replay option, available from January 7 to January 11, 2024, at 09:00 KST (AM)

Beyond the technological intricacies, the Golden Disc Awards, since its inception in 1986, has played a pivotal role in elevating the visibility and acclaim of Korean musicians. Serving as a platform for listeners to discover and support the diverse talents within the Korean music scene, the annual award event has been a cornerstone of growth and promotion for the industry. Scheduled to unfold at the Jakarta International Stadium in Indonesia, the 38th Golden Disc Awards will be hosted by actors Cha Eun-woo and Sung Si-kyung. The star-studded lineup of performers, featuring names like Seventeen, Stray Kids, ENHYPEN, IVE, and TXT, further heightens the anticipation among K-pop fans. With Ilgan Sports and JBTC Plus at the helm, this prestigious event continues to be a beacon for artists seeking recognition on a global stage, solidifying its reputation as a key accolade for the ever-evolving world of K-pop. Read the full article

#38thGoldenDiscAwards #K-pop #korean

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dafriamaskurie · 1 year ago

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Exploring AI Art Potential: Denny Ja Painting Exhibition at International MLF

Art and technology are increasingly closely related to the times. One of his manifestations can be found at the Denny JA painting exhibition held at the International Machine Learning Festival (MLF) on June 17-19, 2021 at the Jakarta Convention Center. This exhibition features 12 paintings created with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) or artificial intelligence. Denny JA uses AI algorithm technology that can produce unique lines and determine different color palettes for each work. When we see these works, we will find elements of a beauty. Just look at the work of "Sun", "Line", and "Water" that is able to display the beauty of nature and amaze the eyes of anyone who sees it. Compared to traditional paintings, paintings with the help of AI have more dynamic and futuristic characters. The algorithm technique used in this work allows Denny JA to create lines and shapes to be more complex and interesting. At this exhibition, visitors can also experience a different experience by looking at work from a different perspective. An experience that can only be felt in this digital world. Many assume that art with the help of AI is a form of dehumanization because there is no human intervention in its manufacture. However, Denny and the team have a different view that technology can help humans to convey deeper ideas and emotions. These paintings show that art and technology have great potential to create extraordinary works. They can also open the door for the younger generation to see art in different perspectives and thus open the door to the opportunity for creativity. In the world of art, paintings with the help of AI are still classified as small surprises. However, great potential in creating extraordinary works still exists. Hopefully this exhibition can open our insights and spur our enthusiasm to create unexpected works of art with AI technology.

Check more: Exploring AI Art Potential: Denny JA Painting Exhibition at International MLF

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bolabambu · 1 year ago

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Denny JA built the power of the state through cultural diplomacy in the new era.

In the midst of the increasingly complex dynamics of world development, cultural diplomacy is one of the important instruments in building the power of the state in a new era. In the Indonesian context, figures such as Denny JA (Julius Usman Arsyad) have played a central role in promoting and developing cultural diplomacy as a tool to strengthen Indonesia's image and influence in the international world. Denny JA, a prominent intellectual and Indonesian writer, has long realized the potential of cultural diplomacy in strengthening the position of the country in the eyes of the world. He, who is also the founder of a research and consultant institution named Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Jakarta, has been dedicated to lifting Indonesia's profile through innovative and creative cultural diplomacy activities. One of the steps taken by Denny Ja in building the power of the country through cultural diplomacy is to utilize the richness of Indonesian culture. He believes that through the introduction of Indonesian culture to the world, the positive image of the state can be improved, and thus, the acceptance and influence of Indonesia in the international arena is increasingly strengthened. In carrying out this vision, Denny Ja has initiated various cultural activities involving artists, cultural figures, and other cultural practitioners. One of them is through the exchange of artists and writers with other countries, where they can share their experiences, knowledge, and cultural works. This exchange not only enriching and broadening artists' insights, but also strengthens diplomatic relations between Indonesia and partner countries. In addition to the exchange of artists, Denny Ja has also held various cultural festivals and exhibitions that display the wealth of Indonesian arts and culture. Festivals like this are not only a place to appreciate and promote Indonesian arts and culture, but also become a platform for Indonesian artists to interact with artists and artists from various countries. Through these festivals, the image of Indonesia as a country with extraordinary cultural wealth can be increasingly known and valued by the international world. In addition to prioritizing activities involving artists and cultural practitioners, Denny also understands the importance of cultural education as an important component in cultural diplomacy. He has supported various cultural education programs that introduce Indonesian cultural wealth to the younger generation. By building a strong understanding of Indonesian culture from an early age, the younger generation can become an effective cultural ambassador in the future, and in turn, strengthen Indonesia's image and influence in the world. In addition to the activities mentioned, Denny Ja has also used the development of information and communication technology to strengthen cultural diplomacy. Through social media and other digital platforms, Denny Ja and his team have succeeded in promoting Indonesian cultural wealth to a broader international audience. By presenting interesting and informative content about Indonesian art, culture, and tradition, Indonesia's positive image can be spread quickly and effectively in various parts of the world. In this new era, where competition between countries is getting tougher and complex, cultural diplomacy is an important instrument in building the power of the country. Check more: Denny Ja: Building State Power through Cultural Diplomacy in a New Era

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blogkarisman · 1 year ago

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Through the author’s eyes: Reflection of Riots Wounds 98 in Denny Ja’s work

In 1998, Indonesia experienced a riots that shook the country and left a deep wound to its people. The riots that occurred at that time not only caused material losses, but also destroyed the trust and integrity of the nation. In literary works, many writers try to reflect the wounds of the event. One of the writers that stands out in raising this theme is Denny JA. Through the author’s eyes, Denny JA described the riots 98 in works that were full of meaning and touching. Denny JA, or complete Denny J.A. Renggana, is a writer, poet and activist of Indonesian literature known for his critical and brave works. Born on August 25, 1960 in Jakarta, Denny Ja grew up and experienced important events in Indonesian history, including riots 98. Personal experience and his testimony of these events became a source of inspiration for his literary works. One of Denny Ja’s deep and inspiring works is his novel entitled “Through the Eyes of the Author”. In this novel, Denny Ja described the riots 98 from the perspective of a writer involved in the student movement. Through the author’s eyes, the reader can feel the atmosphere of anxiety, fear, and hopes felt by the perpetrators and victims of the riots. In the novel “Through the author’s eyes”, Denny Ja uses a straightforward but emotional writing style. He described violent scenes with details that could make the reader carried away by the atmosphere. In addition, Denny Ja also presents strong and complex characters, so that the reader can feel the struggle and suffering they experience. In this novel, Denny Ja also raised various social and political issues that became the background of the riots. He discussed about injustice, corruption, and people’s dissatisfaction with the government. Through the author’s eyes, Denny Ja gave a sharp criticism to the political and social system that existed at that time. He highlighted the injustice experienced by the community and explored the roots of the problems that caused riots to occur. In addition to the novel “Through the Author’s Eyes”, Denny Ja has also produced other literary works that raise the theme of the riots 98. One of them is his poems that are full of emotion and meaningful. In his poems, Denny Ja expressed feelings of loss, despair, and hopes that arose after the event. He uses a simple but hit language, so that it can touch the reader’s heart. In Denny Ja’s works, the riot wound reflection 98 became the center of attention. He not only describes the violence and physical struggle that occurs, but also explores the emotional and psychological injuries left by the event. Denny Ja invites the reader to see and feel the wounds through the author’s eyes, so they can understand and appreciate the struggles and lives of the victims. In his conclusion, Denny Ja’s works that raised the theme of riots 98 are a form of deep and meaningful reflection. He succeeded in describing the wounds and struggles that occurred, as well as giving criticism of social and political conditions at that time. Through the author’s eyes, Denny Ja invites us to see and feel the riots wounds 98, so that they can learn from the past and try to prevent similar events in the future.

Check more: Through the eyes of the author: Reflection of Riots Wounds 98 in Denny JA’s work

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blogmagnum · 1 year ago

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Seeing Denny Ja 4's chosen work with critical eyes: Dry flowers for farewell in the spotlight

In the world of art, artwork is often the center of attention and public spotlight. Many artists have created extraordinary and inspiring works. One of the artists who has stolen the attention is Denny JA 4, who is famous for his work entitled "Dry Flowers Farewell". In this article, we will see the chosen work of Denny JA 4 with critical eyes and explore the meaning and influence of this controversial work. As an introduction, Denny JA 4 is an Indonesian artist who has created many works that describe the social and political reality in Indonesia. His works often invite debate and controversy, and "Farewell Dry Flowers" are no exception. This work was first exhibited in Jakarta in 2010 and has since been a hot topic of conversation. "Dry Flowers Farewell" is an art installation consisting of dozens of dry flowers arranged in a bright room. These flowers symbolize lives that have passed and leave their traces. In this work, Denny Ja 4 invited the audience to reflect on the meaning of separation and fragility of life. One of the interesting things about Denny Ja 4's work is the use of dry flowers. Dry flowers symbolize fragile and death conditions. In the context of "Dry Flowers Farewell", dry flowers illustrate separation that cannot be avoided in human life. This work invites the audience to think about the limitations of life and respect every moment we have. In addition, the setting of flowers in a bright room provides a strong visual effect. The light that radiates from dry flowers creates a tense and melancholy atmosphere. The placement of these flowers is also irregular, giving the impression of chaos and uncertainty in life. With this complicated arrangement, Denny Ja 4 managed to create an interesting atmosphere and captivate the audience. However, the work of Denny Ja 4 also reaps controversy. Some argue that this work is too pessimistic and does not give any hope. However, I am of the opinion that this work actually invites the audience to reflect on the importance of understanding the limitations of life and celebrating every moment we have. Although there is a melancholy impression, this work actually gives an important message that can motivate the audience to live more fully and meaningfully. In his conclusion, Denny Ja 4 chosen work, "Farewell Dry Flower", is an interesting and controversial art installation. Through the use of dry flowers and bright room arrangements, Denny Ja 4 managed to create an interesting atmosphere and captivate the audience. Despite reaping controversy, this work gives an important message about the importance of understanding the limitations of life and celebrating every moment we have. Thus, this work has managed to steal the attention and leave a deep impression on the audience.

Check more: Seeing Denny JA 4 Chosen Work with Critical Eyes: Dry Flowers Farewell in the spotlight

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bankterkiniindonesia · 2 years ago

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“SHINE Project” Rangkaian Transformasi Sistem IT Teranyar dari KB Bukopin

Kian fokus dalam meningkatkan layanan perbankan khususnya dalam transformasi bidang Information and Technology (IT). PT Bank KB Bukopin Tbk ("KB Bukopin") memperkenalkan rangkaian transformasi sistem IT teranyarnya yang bernama SHINE Project. SHINE Project sendiri merupakan nama baru dari pengembangan sistem IT yang sebelumnya ada ditahap perencanaan yang dinamakan Next Generation Banking System atau NGBS. KB Bukopin telah melaksanakan kick-off ceremony pada 22 Februari 2023 lalu yang bertempat di Kantor Pusat KB Bukopin, Jakarta Selatan.

Pertemuan tersebut dihadiri oleh seluruh jajaran Komisaris, Direksi, dan Karyawan KB Bukopin secara hybrid. turut hadir pula perwakilan DXC Technology yaitu Yves Cramazou selaku DXC Technology ASEAN Managing Director, Ramesh Swaminathan ASEAN/ AMEA Director, Park Young Bae General Manager Korea, dan Arif Arfanto General Manager Indonesia. Sedangkan perwakilan dari Ernst & Young (“EY”) yaitu Hendra Godjali Indonesia Consulting Lead, Evan Wiradharma Project Director (FSO Consulting Lead), Lusi Lubis People Advisory Services Lead, dan Hery Atmadja Technology Consulting Lead.

SHINE Project merupakan proyek dari pengembangan sistem IT yang sebelumnya pada tahap perencanaan dinamakan Next Generation Banking System (“NGBS”), yang diharapkan dengan nama SHINE Project dan tagline Change Everything dapat memberikan semangat yang lebih besar bagi seluruh pihak dalam mensukseskan proyek ini. SHINE Project akan melalui beberapa fase yang akan berjalan selama 19,5 bulan. Sistem ini akan memuat sejumlah penggunaan teknologi terkini, seperti peningkatan core banking yang akan memberikan kemudahan bagi nasabah dalam layanan keuangan.

Direktur Utama KB Bukopin Woo Yeul Lee menyampaikan bahwa “SHINE Project memiliki tujuan menjadi One Stop Banking Solution, Integrated KB Bukopin, serta Costumer-Centric. Proyek ini memberikan keleluasaan bagi KB Bukopin untuk menciptakan inovasi produk dan layanan. KB Financial Group akan selalu mendukung, salahsatunya melalui transfer knowledge mengenai implementasi pengembangan sistem serupa di Korea”.

Sebelumnya KB Bukopin telah menunjuk DXC Technology sebagai IT Master Contractor untuk SHINE Project. DXC Technology adalah perusahaan layanan dan konsultasi teknologi informasi (IT) multinasional Amerika yang berkantor pusat di Virginia, Amerika Serikat. DXC Technology memiliki lebih dari 110.000 tenaga professional yang tersebar di benua Amerika, Europa, Asia and Australia.

DXC ASEAN Managing Director Yves Cramazou menyampaikan “Kami mengucapkan terima kasih atas kepercayaan yang telah diberikan oleh KB Bukopin dalam menjalankan proyek ini. Dengan menggabungkan kekuatan dan keahlian DXC secara global, kami akan memberikan solusi teknologi transformatif untuk memastikan kesuksesan proyek ini.”

Sebagai informasi NGBS (sekarang : SHINE Project) merupakan proyek transformasi sistem teknologi informasi dan bisnis KB Bukopin yang menyediakan berbagai pelayanan yang terpusat pada kepuasan nasabah, memperbaharui sistem untuk mendukung kebutuhan bisnis lebih baik, serta secara agresif memenuhi kebutuhan di pasar. Rencana pengembangan NGBS sebelumnya telah mulai disampaikan ke publik oleh KB Bukopin pada akhir tahun 2021, dimana penerapan NGBS merupakan hasil dari inisiatif KB Financial Group (“KBFG”) selaku ultimate shareholder serta merupakan implementasi teknologi perbankan terbaru yang telah juga telah sukses diterapkan di KB Kookmin Bank.

Pada pertengahan tahun 2022, KB Bukopin mulai melakukan peningkatan kapasitas Data Center dan Disaster Recovery Center (“DC & DRC”) sebagai langkah awal dari pengembangan platform layanan finansial yang akan secara aktif memberikan nilai tambah bagi pengalaman finansial nasabah melalui Customized Offer yang didasari oleh Behaviour Analysis dari nasabah KB Bukopin. Selanjutnya, sebagai bagian dari penerapan manajemen risiko dalam penggunaan IT untuk menghasilkan sistem dan data yang terjaga kerahasiaannya, terintegrasi serta mendukung pencapaian tujuan Bank, KB Bukopin resmi menunjuk Ernst & Young (“EY”) sebagai Project Management Officer (“PMO”) dari proyek NGBS.

Source:

#kbbukopin #perbankan #indonesia #SHINEProject

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ignitedfms · 5 months ago

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[ kathryn bernardo, cis-woman, she/her ] Look who just landed! REYNA JAZMYN DIZON, I sure hope you packed all you need. Perhaps you’re not worried as a STREET RACER. The city has plenty of spots for a 28 year old HUMAN like you. You’ll be known in the city soon enough as BAKUNAWA, being TENACIOUS and RASH. ( Ven, 30, PST, removed for discretion )

00000 - - INTERVIEW INCOMING - - - 001

001101 1- - ARE you A LOCAL OF MARS OR HAVE you LANDED HERE RECENTLY? WHAT IS your OPINION OF THE CITY OF NEW JAKARTA? - 00011011

She kept her mouth shut, so there was no reason to panic. It’s not like X Academy told on her, right? Still, being around the OVERSEERS gave her the heebie-jeebies. “Yeah…” She shifted in her seat to straighten her back. Remember, self, you didn’t get charged. “Well no, but yeah, I was born here and then went off-world for a while to complete my degrees. California was nice…” She paused, pursing her lips as she thought. “The sun’s different on Earth and it’s been five years since I’ve been off-planet, so I think it’s safe to say that I don’t hate this place enough to leave.”

It took her years to separate her feelings about her childhood from the city. Things could be complicated in NEW JAKARTA, but it had good bones. Shelter and comfort were easy to find in the shadows of New Jakartan buildings and as rough as things could be, it wasn’t always bad. However, the wounds caused by her separation from her former employer were too raw and her first gut feeling was yelling at her to find a way out.

Lie.

“If I’m being real though,” she wasn’t, “if I had a choice, I’d go back to Earth.”

0101022 - - ARE you AWARE OF THE CRIMINAL CIRCUIT OF NEW JAKARTA? WOULD you BE WILLING TO INFORM THE OVERSEERS IF you SEE ANYTHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY? - 001200

Reyna stared blankly at the Overseer for what felt like a few minutes. She then blinked a couple of times and furrowed her brows.

Lie.

“Uh… No?” Street racing was dangerous, but she didn’t think it was criminal enough to be labeled a crime. At least that’s what she hoped for even if she knew she’d get put on a hot seat. “I’m a law-abiding citizen who pays her taxes on time. Wait…” Her eyes widened, feigning realization. “Is something going on around my block? I have one of those camera doorbell things.”

Lie.

“Oh definitely.” She said one thing but meant another. “It’s my civic duty.” While the OVERSEERS seemed better poised to take on crime these days, she believed they had failed to protect her all those years ago from her father. She watched them lock away good people and ignore the bad ones, so she couldn’t see herself helping them. Doing so would feel like burning holes in her stomach. The more she thought about NEW JAKARTA, the more she wondered what kept her here.

000111311 - - HAVE you BEEN TESTED FOR ANY TRACES OF SIGHIR? HAVE your TESTS ON THE VIRUSES COME BACK CLEAN? - 0012133

“No. I elected not to.” What was the point? “There’s no reason to since I don’t have signs of all that.” Her former employer tested her for everything given the nature of her work there, but she hadn’t paid much attention to what she was tested on. After all, what mattered most was that she was clean and her health wouldn’t affect anything. Now that she was a free bird and no longer caged by a job, she had other things to worry about and couldn't care less about updating her medical history.

“I need some clarification though… what’s all this for anyways? Are you doing a… census thing?” She cocked a brow and of course, didn’t receive much of an answer.

0113114 - - DO you HAVE ANYTHING TO DECLARE? WEAPONS, AUGMENTATIONS, MECHANICAL PARTS OR AI-RELATED APERTURE? - 0012444

And deny.

“No. Once had access to HEXTECH. They were supposed to be a part of my severance package since they helped me with engineering GUI and using the Hextools suite, but the separation documents had me return them.” Things hadn’t worked out between her and X so of course, they took away all the tech.

Oh right. She re-centered herself. The rest of the questions.

As she answered earlier, she was a law-abiding citizen and law-abiding citizens had no reason nor the intent to carry around weapons. “Nope. I’ve got nothing else ‘side of that, but hey, if something’s shady is happening on my block, let me know.” She got up and walked the Overseer out of her home. “The world’s pretty crazy and maybe I can check the footage on my doorbell for you. Anyways, have a good day.” Reyna gave them a final wave and after she shut the door, she released a sigh that she had been holding in.

#ignitedinterview #new rp #crime rp #plot driven rp #semi appless rp #fantasy rp #lsrp #city rp #literate rp #scifi rp #mature rp

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ewh111 · 2 years ago

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2022 Annual List of Favorite Film & TV Experiences

Happy new year!

2022 brought back some semblance of normalcy. Highlights include: virtual Sundance Film Festival seeing 16 films in 4 days in January, my first in-person Super Bowl and seeing the LA Rams win in February, return after three year absence of my special fundraiser dinners that I cook (back-to-back nights of a 16 course dinner focused on Shanghai & Sichuan cuisine) in April, attending my 35th college reunion in May, helping to celebrate the life of dear friend and colleague Ted Walch at the end of summer, and in November, going on my first global travel since the pandemic on a work trip (postponed from March 2020) that took me to Sydney, Singapore, Jakarta, Tokyo, and Kyoto. And on the family front, we continued our weekly Sunday family Zooms which began at the outset of the pandemic, still going strong at 146 weeks and counting.

Hope you have had a safe and healthy holiday season and all the best for a fabulous 2023!

Cheers, Ed

And greetings from my girls Freddy and Maxie, aged 10 and 9 respectively.

Now on to this year's compilation of my favorite film and other streaming experiences. I’m still limiting my visits to the movie theater with off-peak visits, so my most of my film intake is still via streaming. Please let me know your thoughts!

Best of the Year

Everything Everywhere All At Once

One of the trippiest film experiences ever! My first question after my initial viewing was "What drugs were the Daniels (as the directors are collectively known) on when they wrote this film? And what kind of pitch did they make to get it made? One of the most original, absurdly outlandish, and description-defying films in recent memory. What seemingly starts as a Chinese immigrant family drama centered around harried traditional mother (Michelle Yeoh), rebellious lesbian daughter, and sweet, endearing father (Ke Huy Quan of Goonies and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom) quickly turns into a bonkers, multiverse journey to save the world. Along the way, laundromat owner Yeoh’s embattled audit brings her face-to-face with a delightfully droll Jamie Lee Curtis as meticulous IRS bureaucrat with hilarious interludes involving googly eyes, hot dog fingers, dildoes, butt plugs, and everything bagels. For those of you thoroughly confused, EEAAO does boil down to a story of redemption and reconciliation between mother and daughter and finding joy and meaning in the things that matter in our hectic, fractured daily lives…told in an absurdly funny and crazy way and gets even better after multiple viewings. Trailer: https://youtu.be/wxN1T1uxQ2g

Black Comedies Set on Islands…With Donkeys

Triangle of Sadness

This Cannes Palm d’Or winner intrigued me with its trailer which evoked a luxury yacht-based White Lotus-esque send up of the wealthy, but this dark dramedy threw a completely unexpected curveball, desert-island third-act that stuck with me long after I left the theater. There’s very sharp writing and performances—the verbal jousting over a dinner check, Woody Harrelson’s hilarious Marxist captain trading drunken barbs with a manure-selling Russian capitalist guest, and the ship’s Filipina toilet manager portrayed by a commanding Dolly De Leon who is largely responsible for the memorable third act. The film continues to grow on me with repeated viewing. FYI, this film is not safe for the emetophobic, as there is an overlong scene with projectile vomiting, the likes of which have not been seen since Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life. Oh, and be warned that there is also a donkey-beating. Trailer: https://youtu.be/VDvfFIZQIuQ

The Banshees of Inisherin

Great to see the In Bruges duo of Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson back together, this time as best friends whose friendship is abruptly cut short by one party which results in ever-increasing, devastating consequences in this bleak but humorous and deeply affecting black comedy from writer-director Martin McDonough. Oh, and Jenny the donkey deserved better. Trailer: https://youtu.be/uRu3zLOJN2c

N.B. It seems to be quite the year for donkeys. I am excited but have yet to see EO, Poland’s Academy Award entry, about the adventures of a donkey named EO.

Pretentious Rich People Getting Their Comeuppance…On An Island

The Menu

As a fan of food, I really enjoyed this comically dark film with Ralph Fiennes playing to perfection the mad genius chef of the Hawthorn, a fictional restaurant on a remote Pacific Northwest island. With a fine ensemble cast directed by Mark Mylod (Succession) and with helping hands from the creator of Chef’s Table as well as the Michelin-starred chef Dominque Crenn, an exclusive $1,250 a head night at the Hawthorn turns into a twisted horror/satire of elevated food experiences and those who partake. Trailer: https://youtu.be/C_uTkUGcHv4

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

If you liked Knives Out, you'll thoroughly enjoy Glass Onion, which gleefully brings back Daniel Craig as dandy Southern super-sleuth Benoit Blanc, this time for a murder mystery party on an island presided over by tech billionaire played by Edward Norton with his friendly band of disruptors including Janelle Monae, Leslie Odom Jr, Dave Bautista, Kathryn Hahn, and Kate Hudson. Trailer: https://youtu.be/gj5ibYSz8C0

Films About Musical Royalty

Tár

While I thought this might go down the road of a #metoo or #cancelculture themed movie, this is actually a towering, slow-burn character study with an intense and sensational Cate Blanchett as the fictional Lydia Tár, the EGOT-winning, brilliant and demanding world-class conductor of the Berlin Symphony whose trail of manipulation, abusive behavior, and hubris eventually catches up with her and the resulting finale is…well, I’ll just leave that for you to watch and react. All the accolades for her tremendous performance are well deserved. Trailer: https://youtu.be/Na6gA1RehsU

Elvis

A sensational Austin Butler brings the King back to life on the big screen. Butler truly embodies Elvis in his heartfelt performance. Baz Luhrmann’s film is not so much traditional biopic as it is a musical that captures the spectacle and cultural phenomenon of Elvis, bringing America out of the innocence of the 1950s, as seen through the eyes of Elvis’s notorious manager Col. Tom Parker (Tom Hanks)—and Luhrmann does it in the grand, dazzling style that only he can do. Perhaps a bit garish and bombastic for some, as an unabashed Luhrmann fan, I loved it. Trailer: https://youtu.be/wBDLRvjHVOY

Action Epics Based on Real Life Rebels

RRR

Wow. I was not expecting to be totally enthralled by S.S. Rajamouli’s Tollywood (Telugu language) film. Hands down, RRR (which stands for Rise Roar Revolt) will be the most glorious, hyperbolic, action-bromance-musical political epic spectacle you'll see all year. The laws of physics-defying action scenes are reminiscent of the operatic violence and stylized fight scenes of 300 and John Woo films. Taking place in 1920s British colonial India, the story centers on two men (loosely based on real life rebels), one a tribal warrior and the other an Indian policeman working for the British forces, who become friends, then enemies, and then eventually friends again and team up as Indian revolutionaries against the British Empire in action sequences that are just bonkers. And to top it all off, there are the exuberant Indians vs. Brits dance-off scene and the joyful credits dance number celebrating Indian freedom fighters (check out the extra links below). Don't miss it. Trailer: https://youtu.be/NgBoMJy386M

Naatu Naatu Dance Sequence: https://youtu.be/OsU0CGZoV8E

Solay Credits Sequence: https://youtu.be/2cyzCReoNgU

The Woman King

Based on the true story of a fierce all-woman warrior unit in the West African kingdom of Dahomey in the 19th century, Viola Davis’s powerful performance and Gina Prince-Bythewood’s confident directing elevates this to a full-blown epic with warmth and inspiration. Trailer: https://youtu.be/3RDaPV_rJ1Y

Nope, Not Your Typical Horror Films

Nope

Yup. Jordan Peele has done it again, this time with a UFO pic that raises questions about our society’s fascination with spectacle, as well as obsession in the pursuit of the perfect shot. With stunning visuals (much of the film was shot on IMAX to create a totally immersive feel) and tingly suspense, Peele has created a film whose meaning you can debate all day—Erasure of Black and marginalized people from history? Dangers of taming nature or exploiting trauma for profit? But at the end of the day, Peele has created yet another impressive and indelible piece of work. Trailer: https://youtu.be/In8fuzj3gck

Bones and All

A film about cannibalism? Yup. I was intrigued with where the appeal in this would be. But seen as a metaphor for queerness and addiction, Luca Guadagnino has actually created a tasteful (pun intended) and surprisingly tender romantic cannibal road pic—a flesh-eating Bonnie and Clyde-like trek across Reagan-era middle America. Guadagnino superbly depicts outcasts living on the edge of society, searching for identity and place. Not for the faint of heart, as it does not shy from the gruesomeness of their addiction. Strong performances from Taylor Russell, Timothée Chalamet, and Mark Rylance with memorable cameos by Chloë Sevigny and an almost unrecognizable Michael Stuhlbarg. Trailer: https://youtu.be/0Nu7Z9AxGNg

More Global Cinema

Decision To Leave

An engrossing, enigmatic slow-burn noir detective mystery with heavy dose of seductive romance and obsessive longing and tinges of Hitchcock’s Vertigo. Winner of the 2022 Cannes Best Director award, Park Chan-wook steps aside from the violence and sex of his earlier films and masterfully pulls you into this intricate web of intrigue, and just when you think you've figured out the tricky complications between the obsessive married insomniac detective and the wife of an apparent suicide victim he’s investigating, Park takes you in a different direction and ultimately to its devastating end. Trailer: https://youtu.be/9aMHyTqvIvU

All Quiet on the Western Front

An impressive and truly stunning German adaptation of the famous German novel about the horrors of war as idealistic and naive boys get swept up in nationalistic fervor only to find the stark realities of being on the front lines of the Great War. A memorable performance by Felix Kammerer in his screen debut as lead character Paul Bäumer, as he experiences the unending hells of war in intimate and personal ways. WWI’s trench warfare with flamethrowers, hand-to-hand combat, and surging tanks is terrifyingly and vividly experienced by Bäumer and indelibly depicted. This epic rivals Sam Mendes's 1917 in its beautifully shot, immersive portrayal of the bleak and brutal wretchedness of pointless war and perhaps the best war film since Saving Private Ryan. Trailer: https://youtu.be/hf8EYbVxtCY

Bullet Train

Ok, this is not an international film, but it does takes place on a Japanese bullet train. High-octane, fun thrill ride of a comedic crime film with code-named hired guns like Ladybug, Tangerine, and Lemon, each with quirky traits, all crossing paths on a Shinkansen in pursuit of a silver briefcase. The smart-alecky, joyful, and fun cast is led by Brad Pitt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Bad Bunny, and Sandra Bullock. Enjoy the ride. Trailer: https://youtu.be/0IOsk2Vlc4o

AND OTHER ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCES

Top Gun: Maverick, The Fabelmans, Cha Cha Real Smooth; Good Luck to You, Leo Grande; The Batman, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, The Exiles, Downfall: the Case Against Boeing, Wildcat, My Policeman, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (Nicolas Cage playing himself), Navalny, Turning Red, Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio

IN THE QUEUE

Empire of Light, Women Talking, Till, The Whale, Avatar: The Way of Water. Bardo, She Said, Emancipation

FAVORITE STREAMING EXPERIENCES

Heartstopper—LOVE LOVE LOVE this sweet, charming, and adorable story of first love between two British school boys based on the bestselling YA graphic novels. For those who need a total antidote to Euphoria, this is it. Trailer: https://youtu.be/FrK4xPy4ahg

Young Royals—Take Heartstopper, add a large dose of The Crown, and plunk it down in an elite Swedish boarding school and you get this gripping drama involving a teen prince and his love interest from the other side of the tracks. Teen drama that feels real and natural. Trailer: https://youtu.be/rHmw87EpGIM

The Bear—Superbly intense and stress-inducing drama that I couldn’t stop watching, revolving around a young fine dining chef (Jeremy Allen White) who returns home to run his late brother’s Chicago hot beef sandwich eatery and oversee its colorful cast of employees that comprise a dysfunctional “family.” And if, like me, you’ve worked in a restaurant, The Bear is fully capable of giving you PTSD, especially the one-take episode 7. Trailer: https://youtu.be/y-cqqAJIXhs

The White Lotus—Season 2 in Sicily surpasses the first and brings back Jennifer Coolidge!! Trailer: https://youtu.be/Baflc_0XVfY

1899—From the folks who brought you Dark—this time trippy things happen on a cruise ship at the end of the 19th century. Trailer: https://youtu.be/ulOOON_KYHs

Slow Horses—If you like Gary Oldman, you’ll love this spy drama where he runs an outfit of MI5 castoffs. Trailer: https://youtu.be/O9ZJChzPn0U

The Old Man—Another spy vs. spy drama, this time it’s in America with the CIA, pitting Jeff Bridges vs. John Lithgow. Trailer: https://youtu.be/xDu1Q9r6HDo

The Righteous Gemstones—I’m not sure how I missed this when it first came out, but this hysterical series is the mega-church version of Succession led by patriarch Eli Gemstone played by John Goodman and two sons played by Danny McBride and Adam Devine. It’s an absurd hoot. Trailer: https://youtu.be/t383UpoLV5k

Abbott Elementary—Top notch mockumentary style workplace sitcom that gets teachers and schools with a great cast. Trailer: https://youtu.be/cO-_7oi-61Y

Euphoria—Not for faint of heart. I thought season one was fine, but season two went to a whole different level. Zendaya is amazing. Some of the most realistic and gritty portrayal of addiction and its ripple effects. Trailer: https://youtu.be/0BG3c1ika48

House of the Dragon—For the GOT crowd. Love the dragons! Trailer: https://youtu.be/DotnJ7tTA34

#Favoritefilms2022 #FavoriteTV2022

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yasuhitoyano · 2 years ago

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Day 1. 12月11日（日）＠Pusat Pelatihan Seni Budaya Jakarta Selatan. Lab Teater CiputatとTheatre Company shelfとの合同ワークショップ／クリエイション1日目。午前中は、Bambang Prihadiのファシリテーションで、午後からは矢野のファシリテーションで合同ワークショップを行う。 Bambangのワークショップで面白かったのは、ムーブメントの作り方。あるいは身体のコントロールについて、どこに集中を持ってきて、その集中をどう身体全体に広げていくか。 2列に並んで特定の相手の動きを1対1でコピーする。コピーした動きを徐々に自分のものにかえていく。集団で動くときには、リーダーの動きを全体がフォローする（マネする。）リーダーは次々と入れ替わっていく。重要なのは、相手の動きそのものをマネるのではなく、動きのもとになっている衝動、感情、動機といったものを上手くキャッチして、そこから動きをマネていく、という点。あと、もう一つ面白かったのは、眼から動きを駆動させるワーク。対象となるオブジェクト、それは虫とか、何か小さなもので動くもので、且つだんだん動きが激しくなって最後には自分の体の中に入って来てしまうのだけれど、とにかく対象を捉えて、眼が最初に動く。そして眼から繋がって身体が、眼が受け取ったものによって駆動させられる。その身体の扱い方が、shelfのそれとは違っていてとても興味深い。とはいえ、集中と観察とを重視している点については共通するものがある。最初の相手の動きをマネるムーブメントについても、アウトプットのかたちではなく、インプットである身体の衝動を捉えるという点、身体全部を点の集中からダイナミックに扱うというところは、shelfとの共通点も多い。上りたい山は同じで、登山道が違う感じ。ランチには初日ということで、みんなで食べる伝統的な一皿料理を振舞って頂いた。儀式的な料理なのだけど、今回は2劇団の初めての対面での共同作業のスタートを祝うという��図で。最初に矢野とBambangとがそれぞれお皿に料理を取り分けて、お互いに交換する。（まるで結婚式のファーストバイトみたい。）楽しかったし、美味しかったです。午後からは矢野のワークショップ。呼吸のコントロール、重心のコントロール、感覚を開くといったshelfが大事にしているメソッドを中心に、いくつかのアクティビティを実施。終わってからはホテルにチェックインして、Festival Teater Jakarta 49 Lebaran Teaterの僕らと同じ参加団体でジャカルタの劇団Sun Comunityの演目、サラ・ケイン「4.48 サイコシス」を観劇。いろいろ思うところはあれど、非常に興味深い体験。 Joint workshop/creation day 1 with Lab Teater Ciputat and Theater Company shelf. The morning, it was facilitated by Bambang Prihadi, and in the afternoon, facilitated by Yano. What was interesting in the Bambang's workshop was how to make the movement. Or about controlling the body, where to focus and how to spread that focus to the whole body. Line up in two lines and copy the opponent's movement one-on-one. Gradually replace the copied movements with your own. When moving in a group, the entire group follows (imitates) the movement of the leader. Leaders are replaced one after another. The critical point is not to imitate the opponent's movements themselves, but to capture the impulses, emotions, and motives that are the basis of the movements, and then imitate the movements from there. Another interesting thing was the work that drives the movement from the eyes. The imaginary target object, such as an insect, is something small that moves, and it gradually moves more active and finally it enters your body. Connected from the eyes, the body is driven by what the eyes receive. The way the body is treated is quite different from that of shelf, which is remarkably interesting. Nonetheless, there is something in common about the emphasis on concentration and observation. Regarding the first movement that mimics the movement of the opponent, it is not in the form of output, but captures the impulse of the body as input, and the whole body is dynamically treated from the concentration of points, which is also common with shelf. The mountain we want to climb is the same, but the mountain trail is different, like that. Since it was the first day, we were treated to a traditional one-plate dish for lunch. It's a ritual dish, but this time it's meant to celebrate the start of the first face-to-face collaboration between the two theater companies. First, Yano and Bambang put the food on their plates and exchanged them with each other. (It's like the "first bite" at the wedding ceremony, I felt.) It was fun and delicious. Yano's workshop in the afternoon. Several activities were carried out, centering on methods that based to shelf's values, such as controlling breathing, controlling the center of gravity (inner core of your body), and opening the senses. After that, checking-in the hotel and went to Taman Ismail Marzuki and watched the play of Sarah Kane, "4.48 Psychosis," by Sun Community, that participated in the Festival Teater Jakarta 49th Lebaran Teater. It was an interesting experience, even though I had felt some critical questions about it.

#Crossing text: International collaboration project between Tokyo and Jakarta

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the-starless-sky · 5 years ago

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The Resurrection Puppet

Second chapter of Jujutsu Kaisen’s first light novel, featuring Nanami and Gojou.

The Resurrection Puppet

Nanami doesn’t hate going on business trips.

It’s not like you couldn’t call it going traveling on a budget, and it could also become a reason to go somewhere you normally wouldn’t.

Much less, somewhere like Hokkaido.

And above all else, even though one’s a sorcerer, for a working adult a chance to to be apart from your coworkers is an irreplaceable moment to cool down. In other words, it’s a ventilation for the soul.

If there are no change of airs, one will feel down.

Whether or not you can take enough time for a breather is the secret of being able to continue working for a long time.

For someone who thought so like Nanami, having a senior sorcerer following him on his business trip isn’t amusing at all――and if that senior’s Gojou Satoru, it’s even giving him a headache.

“Nanami, let’s do a Hokkaido quiz!”

“Please do it by yourself.”

“Okay, here’s the first question. Which famous sweet ‘Sanpouroku’[1] is my number one favorite Hokkaido sweets?”

“Please come back after looking up the definition of ‘quiz’ at least ten times.”

“Well then, let’s play the jaga-butter[2] game. The rules are easy. The one who likes jaga-butter the most wins. Okay, that’s my win―since I’m the guy who loves jaga-butter second in the whole country.”

“Who’s the first?”

“Matsuyama Chiharu.”[3]

“You lie more than you breathe, don’t you?”

“Reduces the carbon-dioxide, don’tcha think?”

“It becomes even with the carbon-dioxide produced by my sighs, is it not? Why do I even have to go somewhere as far as Hokkaido with a man, another sorcerer?”

“Isn’t it fine? It’s like a reality show.”

“Where in the world does this kind of a boring reality show exists?”

Nanami and Gojou walked through the lively main road with expressions polar opposite of each other.

Sapporo’s townscape is identical to Kyoto’s: like the intersections on a Go[4] board.

If you’d just walk as you look at the signs, you wouldn’t get lost.

It’s a bit of a pain to grasp the one-way roads, but it’s very easy to sight-see on foot in the central district. It is also very easy to compare it with a map.

“Well, it’s not as if everything’s on a grid, but it’s easy to set routes to tour around spots, huh.”

Gojou said, as he pulled out a pamphlet folded into two.

When opened, it was a simplified map of the central district, with some red circles written on it.

“What’s with that map?”

“Oi, oi, oi, Nanamiii. Oi, oi, oi, oi!”

“That’s irritating in a crude way.”

“Get a grip! There’s only one map I’d pull out in a place like this, right? What else is it if not the Gojou Satoru Sweets Map?”

“That’s why I told you, please go by yourself.”

“It’s really not worth it trying to be senior-like around you, isn’t it?”

“Since long ago, you are also a senior not worth idolizing, you know?”

Nanami sighed so many times he felt as if his lungs are flattened.

The things Gojou talk about in private is 90% of the time, nothing serious.

He fundamentally only talks in his own pace, so if you respond to him properly you’d just feel tired, but even if you gloss over him, you’d still feel irritated.

One wouldn’t be able to understand the stress of having such a person as your superior, senior, and someone absolutely above you in terms of abilities if one doesn’t deal with Gojou Satoru directly. Though, perhaps, Ijichi has it harder than him.

“...... But rather, seriously, why are you even following me? It’s not a case that requires two sorcerers. Much less――”

“Much less the strongest, super handsome sorcerer Gojou Satoru, right?”

He decided to ignore the remark out of exhaustion. Even so, Gojou continued to speak.

“Of course, I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. Even though it’s a one-man investigation, if it’s you, you’ll definitely be able to finish it without fail.”

“So, why did you come?”

“To turn a case that’s probably nothing to worry about, into a case that’s absolutely nothing to worry about. Even though you alone is sufficient, it’s a case that required a first grade sorcerer going, right? And I’d even heard it has something to do with an evil curse user or those ‘pseudo-users’.”

“...... So you’re saying that the enemy might be a first grade or a special grade curse user?”

“It’s only a hypothetical, though.”

“You’re not the kind of person who’d go out just because of such vague possibility, are you not?”

“The sympathizer act’s going to seep to your core, you know. Well, isn’t it fine to just leave it like that for now? Unexpectedly, it might be that I’m just tired of my busy days and want to go on a vacation in the North.”

“So you’re saying that that isn’t your actual reason?”

“Ah, Nanami. Look, look at that!”

“Please listen what other people are saying. It’s useless telling you that, though.”

On the other end of Gojou’s pointed hand was a small food stall.

On the bright yellow signboard, the words ‘jaga-butter’ was written with a huge, red font - anyone’s self-assertion has never been this strong.

“If you think about it, a jaga-butter stall’s kind of bold, isn’t it? It’s just roasted potato topped with butter they’re selling. They’re not hard to make at home.”

“They’re similar to stone-baked sweet potatoes[5], are they not?”

“Now that you said that, that’s kinda true. As expected of you, Nanami. Your focus’ deep in those sunglasses.” [6]

“That’s just the location of my eyes.”

“By the way, Nanami, what’s the jaga in jaga-imo?” [7]

“There’s a theory that said jaga-imo is imported to Japan from the Jakarta Harbor.”

“How could you answer instantly!? Scary.”

“Conversely, how could you not know? You’re the man who loves jaga-butter second in the whole nation, aren’t you?”

“After all, number two will always be number two. If you’re going to do something then you have to aim for number one, huh... that’s that, so Cap’n, I’ll have one jaga-butter!”

In the middle of the conversation, in a very natural way, Gojou had moved closer to the stall, so Nanami’s reaction was a bit slow.

“You’re going to eat?”

“Of course. After all, I’m the number two jaga-butter lover in the nation.”

“Even though we’re actually here for a job.”

“Then you don’t have to eat, I’ll just savour the taste of Hokkaido by myself.”

“I’m eating.”

“See, you’re eating too.”

Two men sat on the bench at the main street park. One wore casual, all-black clothes, and the other a neat suit. Both wore sunglasses. They sit side by side, eating jaga-butter.

Sapporo is a metropolis city in which you’d just pass off performers and cosplayers with ‘guess people like that exists’, but even taking that into account, the two still attracts attention.

“Uwah, delicious! It’s soft and flaky, y’know, fresh from the oven!”

“It wont turn out like this if you roast them at home.”

“Yeah, you’re seriously right. I underestimated jaga-butter... guess it is stall-worthy.”

“This makes me want to drink some beer. As I thought, it would’ve been better to have this at the end of the job.”

“Beer, huh? I don’t really understand the thought of eating something delicious by itself with sake. ...... Eh? Huh?”

“What’s wrong?”

“Don’t your jaga-butter looks kinda different to mine?”

“It’s because I put shio-kara[8] on it. It’s delicious - but I’m not going to share.”

“Nah, don’t need it. It looks kinda like the cursed spirit I exorcised the other day.”

“............”

If everything goes well, Hokkaido was supposed to be the place Nanami could have a change of pace in.

Stress were piled up inside of Nanami just a little bit.

✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈«

Because they are proper adults, after they enjoyed the soft and flaky jaga-butter, they tidied up neatly and headed to the east of the main street park, towards the television tower.

The main street park ended there, and near the bus center a large road crossed from the north to south.

It was a large road - a very important traffic route for the city, yet unexpectedly there were not that much people walking on it.

This has something to do with Sapporo’s city structure.

“So, what kind of cruel curse user are we going to investigate, again? Though, whether or not it involves a curse user is still vague.”

“Did you follow me despite your uncertainties?”

“You’re the one who’s going to deal with it, so.”

“I want to say ‘then please don’t come’, but... Rather, how could you eat soft cream after you ate something so filling?”

“Aren’t you also eating!?”

As he licked the cheese and milk twin soft cream skillfully as to not let it spill, Gojou naturally walked in front of Nanami.

Nobody knows where he’s heading to, still he moved in a way only someone who knew the details of the case would be able to do.

According to Gojou, he couldn’t believe Nanami’s choice of neither milk nor chocolate soft cream but cookies and cream soft cream despite being in Hokkaido, and that he doesn’t want to even see it[9]. Nanami wondered what he’s on about even though he’s wearing sunglasses.

Nanami wanted to tell Gojou to not walk around as he pleased, yet he thought that explaining the situation would be a faster choice.

Because if it were the usual Gojou, he wouldn’t even have to ask Nanami for the details.

So, the fact that he actually asked Nanami shows that Gojou didn’t have any information at all. In sum, Gojou knew that the case wasn’t one that needed his intervention.

Yet, Gojou still followed Nanami.

Nanami knew that Gojou wasn’t that free a man he could go to the northern part of the country just to kill time. Nanami wanted to know what Gojou’s true aim is.

In any case, in order to make Gojou talk about his true intention, Nanami had no choice but to to quickly explain about the ‘puppet uproar’.

Nanami thought about efficiency and decided to explain the case concisely.

“It seems that everything started with a website called ‘Yomotsu Hirasaka’.” [10]

“What an amazing naming sense.”

“It seems like it’s a website established with an independent server so no one could find it through search engines... Ijichi managed to find the website through some information.”

“He’s an excellent guy.”

Gojou remarked plainly, as if it’s the most natural thing in the world.

Hearing that, Nanami inferred, “Ah, this guy must’ve forced Ijichi to spill out my destination.”

It was not as if Ijichi Kiyotaka was a super hacker.

Even so, if he’d only know what to look for, the man called Ijichi would be able to find out ‘the ways to search’ for it.

In this information-saturated society, the ability to search was, most of the time, more useful than technical knowledge.

In that sense, Ijichi is valued highly.

Well, even though he’s valued highly, whether one would reward kindly someone who had leaked out information is another thing altogether. Nanami decided to scold Ijichi later.

“So, that bad taste of a website... what’s it for? Don’t tell me you use it to watch amusing videos?”

“The website was a simple and plain one. Makes you feel nostalgic, even.”

“The ones with an access counter where you have to report back if you hit the kiriban?” [11]

“It does have that kind of feel to it.”

“I hate myself for feeling nostalgic.”

“That’s because we are already at that age, too.”

As his soft cream flattened, Nanami munched at the cone, paused a breathe, and continued.

“In the end, it was found that that website’s a teller window for contacting a curse user.”

“Teller window?”

“There’s a simple form, and if you write your request in the form and send it, the website will show you a registered mail to send your money to. You’ll be able to buy their products that way.”

“Ain’t that a mail order service with mailing payment? The analog one.”

“The address leads to a certain building in Hokkaido owned by a small real estate agent. It’s a two tatami, one ken wide share house.” [12]

“What are you even going to share?”

“It has twenty mailboxes. It seems that a shady lot is using the place as a simple post office box.”

“The modus operandi’s a yakuza front, huh. It’s not something a curse user would think of.”

“For good or worse, sorcerers from historical families wouldn’t even think of establishing such routes, would they.”

“...... So, in the end, what are they selling? If it’s a stray curse user, they’re probably selling some ripoff cursed object to repel cursed spirits the size of a fly head or just trying to make small earnings by cursing other people, but... Nanami wouldn’t get called out just to handle small fries like them, right?”

“What great comprehension you have.”

“Think well about who you’re talking to before you say that. Even though you got called out, I wasn’t told anything at all, so it must be something those higher-up old men wanted to hide from me, right?”

“If so, don’t you think there’s a possibility that I am ‘forbidden to talk about the details’ by them?”

“That’s unrelated. If I feel like it, I’d be able to make anyone talk, after all. The only thing they could do is to at least make it so that ‘the mission itself isn’t known’. So my being here is already their failure.”

“I always think about this, but if your head works that well then could you please look up the case yourself without having me to explain it?”

“Even if it’s not impossible for me to do it by myself, letting my juniors handle bothersome things is the fastest way.”

“... Sigh...”

Nanami’s sigh was a long one.

It wasn’t as if Nanami’s hesitating whether or not to talk about the details, it’s just that he wanted to sigh at the tyrannical senior sorcerer.

After he inhaled, Nanami finally touched upon the heart of the matter.

“――the resurrection of the dead.”

“...... Come again?”

Gojou, quite unusually, doubted his hearing.

That was how absurd Nanami’s words were. Nanami himself also realized this, which was why his tone was full of exhaustion.

“The thing that website is selling is a ‘new vessel’ to call back the soul of the dead... they are calling it the ‘Resurrection Puppet’[13], it seems.”

“... Another senseless joke, huh?”

“In all probability it’s bogus, is it not. However...”

“Nah, I understood already.”

Gojou waved his hand.

In the short exchange they had, he understood the situation so well he got fed up.

“In all probability, it’s 99% confirmed that it’s a bogus business... yet, if there’s even a one in a million chance it’s true, they can’t ignore it. Am I right?”

In this world, there are some truths that one doesn’t have to think to understand.

For example, things like after dawn breaks, morning will come. That ice is cold. That apples would fall off the tree.

Because there are laughably simple, yet definite rules, the world holds up.

Conversely, if these truths are overturned, the world will collapse.

If 1 + 1 isn’t 2, then every calculation will crumble. If the dawn breaks and morning doesn’t come, just because of that this planet will perish.

We wouldn’t be able to laugh if things that are laughably simple don’t stay the way they are.

The irreversible nature of time is one of those truths.

Spilt water wont go back to its tray. Regret don’t come first. Time wont go back to the past.

The most symbolic, easiest to understand example of this has to be the phenomenon of ‘death’.

“Of course they wouldn’t want me to know. As the lot who wanted to certainly erase Sukuna’s host.”

“It seems you understood.”

“They’re really looking down on me, aren’t they? Do they think I’d count on something like that?”

“Fearing even only 1% of chance, and destroying it. That’s the reason why people in power keep reigning in power, is it not?”

“It’s certainly 100% bogus, though.”

“Surely. If one could do something like that――”

“If one could do something like that, this world would’ve ended a long time ago.”

The dead will never come back. Because they don’t come back, people can give up on their past. Because they don’t come back, people could at least pursue the right death.

If bringing people back from the dead is possible, it is likely a curse too big for this world.

Truly, an absolute curse deserving of the name ‘King of the Curses’.

“Although the subject of this suspicious business seem to be limited to ‘resurrecting babies’... the chance of it being real is still zero.”

“Babies? What’s with that?”

“I’m not sure. The target customers are limited to those. To investigate everything including that fact is my job.”

“Even though resurrecting the dead itself is totally fake.”

“Even so, the investigation still has to be done. That’s what working is.”

Gojou lifted his head as he munched on the soft cream cone.

After he licked the cream dripping off his thumb, Gojou put on a very exhausted face, and he looked at Nanami from the depths of his sunglasses.

“Y’know, Nanami. Is being a salaryman shittier than being a sorcerer?”

“If you don’t put into account an individual’s suitability, then I’d say it’s fifty-fifty.”

“This society’s re~ally cursed, huh.”

“There’s no helping that expression, isn’t it.”

“So, Nanami. The guy who’s selling those puppets... let’s just call him the ‘Puppet Maker’. You’d at least already know his location, right? Where should we go?”

“We’ve walked past it, because a certain someone decided to move around as he pleased.”

“Eh, it’s my fault?”

“Please don’t make me think that being a salaryman is better because you’re not around.”

Nanami, just a little bit, looked back on his resignation.

✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈«

A city is not something that only expands vertically.

A city that has passed the limits of density above ground would mostly expand their space horizontally.

In other words, they either pile their building upwards, or expand their space underground.

“I see, an underground shopping center, huh?”

“It’s still alright because there are a lot of entrance to the underground in the above ground, but we did make quite a detour.”

The existence of underground space reflects the liveliness of the railroad network, thus it could be said that it is one of the indicators if a town is a metropolis or not.

Now then, the underground walking space in front of the Sapporo Station is a relatively new and vast road, and from there you can access almost every major establishments between the station and Susukino[14].

That’s the reason why, despite there being a large road above ground, the amount of walkers are not overly dense. One can truly call this vast underground space where traffic lights and the weather don’t matter the other city piled below the city.

“How fashionable. There are sky lights even though it’s underground.”

“There’s even convenience stores, book shops, terraces, library teller windows, and even beauticians as well as fortune-tellers. If all of those exist here, I guess it wouldn’t be a long shot for a ‘Puppet Maker’ to be here.”

“Anyways, why didn’t we just come down here in the first place?”

“That was my plan in the first place. It’s just that there’s someone who wouldn’t listen and started eating jaga-butter instead.”

“Seriously? I’ll make sure to scold them when I see ‘em.”

“If it’s a mirror you’re looking for, there’s one in the toilet.”

“But for real..... this place’s really fashionable. There’s an exhibition space with an event currently on going, and even performers. It’s like all the liveliness gathered here rather than the above ground. Though... that’s also bad in itself.”

There was a good reason behind Gojou’s frown.

Sapporo is a peculiar city.

Humans are all unique. There are as many personalities as there are humans.

If it were Tokyo, each area like Shibuya, Asakusa, Shinjuku, Akihabara, etcetera have their own characteristics - and people too, gather at those places depending on their personality. Perhaps it’s easier to understand with terms like Shibuya-type and Akiba-type.

On the contrary, Sapporo is chaotic.

In the shopping district where young people gather, there are also anime goods store for maniacs, old, longstanding shopping street, and red light district where the desires of adults jumble together.

All of these exists on the same street, intermingling in an extra close proximity.

Naturally, the ‘energy’ gathering there is also intermixed.

Resentment, jealousy, anger, partiality, attachment, envy, disgust, selfishness.

Negative energy should, by nature, disperse depending on the city’s disposition - yet, this city doesn’t differentiate between dispositions.

Furthermore, it’s an underground walking space.

A long and wide road, as well as a vast underground city.

The cylindrical structure passing through most of the city’s major establishment, calculated to have the maximum convenience, brought the diverse people riding on the train into the same space, complete with their negative energy.

From a sorcerer’s perspective, the underground city that looked brilliant and lively at a glance is truly people’s melting pot of energy.

“Though ‘cause of that, it’s easier to pick up on the fishy direction.”

“Yes. Because you can feel unpleasant feeling at a glance.”

The stagnant air is bad already in this underground city where a lot of people come and go.

However, even in the middle of that, there’s certainly a presence of gloom worth mentioning.

For a sorcerer capable of chasing cursed spirits through the remnants of curse techniques, one could say that it’s even easier than tracing the source of a gas leak.

As they weave their way through the crowd of people, Nanami and Gojo pursued the presence, walking south of the underground city.

As they walked for some tens of minutes, the smartly organized new area ended, and they stepped into the old area with rather different tastes.

Compared to the new area, there were a lot of places where the structure is complicated, like the side ways and the road to the subway.

Though that’s not to say that the amount of people there decreased, so as a result it becomes an even crowded place.

In the middle of the people coming and going.

In the middle of the stream of people, as if an overflowing river, there it was...... the ‘stagnation’.

“Nanami.”

“Yes――that must be a lead.”

On the other end of the two sorcerer’s line of sight was a pair of parent and child.

A mother holding a baby in her arms, and a boy around five, six years old.

Gojou and Nanami pricked up their ears as they carefully closed in on them.

“――Geez, Akito. Why won’t you understand?”

“No!! Mommy, don’t bring something like that with you!! I don’t wanna, don’t wanna!!”

“You’re the big brother, don’t say something strange so egoistically. Look...... Natsuki’s crying again.”

“No!! No!! I’m not a big brother!!”

The mother corrected her hold on the baby called Natsuki, her expression troubled.

Of course, the child called Akito was also important for her.

Yet, parents are just no match for young children. The swaying expression of the mother holding the small body in her arms held an almost maddening amount of love.

At a loss with her crying child as she comforted her baby, the everyday figure of a mother.

If normal people were to look at it, it must’ve been a usual, pleasant scene.

A small child getting irritated because he felt his mother being taken away by the younger child. If it was an adult, they would’ve concluded that it’s a normal thing and go on.

However, the state of the boy, Akito, looked too desperate to call it mere irritation.

It was certain that what he felt are feelings of not wanting his parents to be taken away.

Yet, that hostility was too sharp for something you’d point at your blood-related brother.

The mother most probably realized it also, as her expression - at first a just a bitter laugh, gradually turned into that of discomfort, into exhaustion, and finally anger.

“Why do you say that!?”

“’Cause, ‘cause...!”

“He’s your little brother, you know? Don’t you feel bad for him?”

“That thing’s not my little brother!”

“Akito!”

The enraged mother followed her emotions and raised her hand.

However, even though she’d swung down her hand, there wasn’t a painful sound of it hitting her child’s cheek.

All because Nanami had held her wrist.

“Wha... wh-what’s with you!?”

Of course, the mother was flustered.

From her point of view, Nanami and Gojou were suspicious people who broke into her family’s everyday.

Even though she knew violence was something to reproach, she has to scold her child who’d made harsh remarks towards her baby. A stranger’s intervention was something she couldn’t accept.

However, there was a reason for Nanami and Gojou’s reproach of her.

As a sorcerer before an adult.

“Please let me go! This is a problem between parent and child!”

“I cannot do that. Do you understand what it is you’re holding in your arms?”

“What do you mean ‘what’...?”

“I see, so this is what they meant by puppet.”

“Ahh!”

Gojou closed his head in from the opposite side of Nanami, looking into the baby in the mother’s arms.

“Just as I wondered what’s going to come... so it’s something like that. To sell something like this and call it resurrection, what a huge scam.”

“P-please stop! Don’t touch Natsuki!”

“Hee... ‘that thing’s’ that important to you? Even more than the child crying and screaming at your feet?”

“Of course! I also gave birth to this child――”

“You bought it, didn’t you?”

Hearing Nanami’s words, the mother froze.

It was as if a hand was shoved into one’s guts, as if one’s spine was gripped tightly, that kind of despair-causing chill.

It was clearly words one couldn’t utter unless they know of the situation.

✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈«

“――Cursed corpse?”

The mother repeated after Nanami’s words, as if ruminating it.

Perhaps because it was an unfamiliar word, the mother’s intonation was a bit awkward.

“Yes. To explain it simply...... Ah. Perhaps calling it a cursed doll would be easier to understand.”

One could feel Nanami’s consideration towards non-sorcerers through his explanation.

If you’ve experienced being a working adult, you’d be reliable in this kinds of things - Gojou quietly acknowledged.

“Doll, you said... but... this child is so...”

“It’s very well made to the point of surprise. If a normal person were to look at it, they wouldn’t be able to differentiate it with real babies.”

“...... This child is, my real...”

“You, as the one who made the transaction, knows best that it’s not, right?”

“......”

“Usually, there aren’t many sorcerers that could make such a human-like cursed corpse. ...This is just my guess, but in order for it to be made, they asked you of something other than money, didn’t they?”

“Uh...”

The baby in her arms was truly well made.

Swaying its arms and legs as if grasping for the sky, the cherry blossom colored cheeks itched. It was a textbook way to appeal to a woman’s motherly instincts.

Even so, that was only about the looks.

From a sorcerer’s perspective, there was only repulsiveness.

It was a matter of course. After all――

“Perhaps it was――”

“You were asked to give them your baby’s remains, weren’t you?”

“......Gojou-san.”

“Of course they’d limit their service to just a babies. ‘Cause there’s no way to drag an adult’s dead body around.”

Nanami, who had tried to get information out of the mother with ambiguous words dropped his shoulders at Gojou’s frank remarks.

From the mother’s discomposure, it seems that Gojou’s words hit the nail on the head.

Using a dead body as material to make a cursed corpse that moves as if it’s alive.

If one has an understanding of curse techniques, one would know how twisted, blasphemous, and depraving this technique is.

However, that was enough to show ordinary people the sweet nightmare of having “resurrected the death”.

Indeed, the cold, harsh truth uttered by Gojou was needed to wake her up from the nightmare. It sounds good if one were to say he purposefully took the role, yet it nobody’s sure if Gojou actually did that while thinking of Nanami’s position.

Whatever his true intention is, Gojou’s words continue.

“It looks alive, but actually it’s no different than a programmed pet robot, y’know? That thing.”

“That’s a lie! After all, I heard about it! ......I heard that Natsuki will come back, so I paid money...”

“If one’s a parent, shouldn’t one know? Of their children’s smallest habits, how they express their feelings...... and the fact that no presence of a living soul could be felt from that baby.”

“............”

“Further more――”

For a moment, Nanami moved his gaze under the sunglasses towards Akito.

The boy, looking about five years in age, clung on to his mother’s legs and looked up at her with a worried, yet determined expression on his face.

“――It seems that that child understands. That his mother’s heart is about to be snatched away by something unknown.”

“That’s......”

“The shape of truth is different for each person. If the truth that you chose was the one in which ‘you have not lost any children’, then I have no right to say anything, but......”

He pushed his sunglasses up with his middle finger, and breathed once before continuing.

There are times when children prepared themselves much more determined and firmer than adults thought they could.

The boy named Akito surely knows that ‘he has to hold on to his mother no matter what’. It’s commendable, yet the cruel reality that forced such a small boy to take on that role felt more painful.

That’s why, Nanami put in quiet prayers into his next remark.

“It is also true that you are turning your eyes away from ‘the present in which your living child is worrying about you’.”

“......I......”

That mother too, deep down in her heart understood.

That Nanami’s words are right, that what she’s done is nothing but escapism.

Even so, Nanami also understood that it wasn’t something one could easily reply ‘yes, I understand’ to.

To regain the person once lost, only to lose them again.

Nanami understood the cruelty, yet he has to keep pressing for her to choose, no matter what.

✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈«

“It’s really harder to cut down people’s attachment than to exorcise curses, huh?”

What made Gojou mutter such a thing was that so much tears and weeping were involved until they finally managed to collect the cursed corpse.

From underground one wouldn’t know, but outside the sun has already set considerably. If they were to use force to retrieve the cursed corpse, then the wound in the mother’s heart wont ever heal. They had to wait until the mother let it go by herself.

You didn’t work at all, so you could at least carry the luggage, he was told, and though he was unwilling and declined at least three times, in the end he was made to carry Nanami’s bag.

Inside was the cursed corpse they retrieved from the mother.

“Nanami, this is a bit too heavy to be put inside a hand bag!”

“We can’t just throw it away, can we? Moreover, it’s an important lead. If we compare the curse power inside the puppet, we could pursue the creator through even the smallest remnants.”

“Yea, I guess. The ‘Puppet Maker’ who sold it looks like he had the intention to hide the traces of his curse power, but... as expected, the guy’s unqualified. There’s a limit to being sloppy.”

“Yes, indeed.”

In the end, they managed to find the ringleader’s stronghold very easily, a little bit too fast.

It was an especially old area even in the underground city.

Branching off of the wide area, a road connecting to a certain building’s underground floor. On the back of the stairs leading to the floors above, a complicated zig-zagging road.

Perhaps it was formerly rented by an izakaya[15].

Judging from how nasty the place look like, it certainly doesn’t fit to be a place for respectable businesses. Yet, it is a perfect location to run fishy businesses in.

Using a technique of the same principle as a ‘curtain’, at the very least the place was hidden from the people.

Even so, for a concealment it was nothing but crude.

For Nanami and Gojou who are following the remnants of the curse technique, it was as if there were footsteps continuing non-stop towards the place.

“Makes you really feel the fact that we’re short of sorcerers. To let a third-rate like this boldly create a base like this...”

“Strong curses are concentrated in the metropolitan areas. It is proportionate to the sorcerers’ activities as well. No matter what we do, our guard tend to be duller on other regions.”

“Though, usually it would’ve been fine to just let this level of evil curse user do as they please.”

It wasn’t only one of them.

However, it wasn’t as if they gave each other signals, yet the two of them stepped one leg forward,

“Now that they have made such a damage,”

“As expected, we have to crush them, huh?”

At practically the same time, the two sorcerers kicked down the door.

The sound of wood and latch creaking echoed flashily, as dust danced in the air. The two sorcerers appeared in a boorish way as if they’re from a yakuza movie, it made the owner of the room――the ‘Puppet Maker’ to reflexively rise on his feet.

“......Wh-what the fuck are you bastards...?”

“If you think we look like customers, then have your eyes checked in the hospital, you small fry.”

“We’re sorcerers, you see. Proper ones.”

“Different from you.”

Especially strong contempt filled Gojou’s voice.

The inside of the room they forced into could only be described as shabby.

The look of the interior was inconsistent, it wasn’t clear if the owner wanted it to look Japanese, Chinese, or Korean, as if they only cared about the ambiance.

From a lion decoration to a synthetic-looking mummy. A pit viper in formalin. A mask covered in paint, one you’d see being sold in souvenir shops.

And to complete the look, the master of the room, ‘Puppet Maker’s’ clothes.

The fabric of his clothes - that’s even unclear if it is an onmyouji’s[16] or a Shinto priest’s - look cheap as if it was borrowed from a rental shop.

And on top of that, he had talismans - that barely works as as a good luck charm - all over his body, tied around it as if bandages.

From the eyes of a sorcerer, it looks like nothing but a costume.

Even if the other party’s an ordinary person, it’s impertinent to think they’d get deceived by such looks.

No - in reality, there are people who are deceived and damages have emerged, so it’s really hopeless.

One could say that from head to toe, this person is nothing but an insult to sorcerers.

“Sorcerers...? I-I-I, I-I see, so you guys, y-you guys are also sorcerers...!”

“What the hell’s with that ‘also’? Don’t tell me you count yourself as a sorcerer?”

“Please, don’t put up unskillful resistance against us. It’s exhausting having to hold back.”

The feelings Nanami held are most likely the same.

The creases between his eyebrows behind the sunglasses he wore was deep.

In there, Nanami’s instinctive disgust towards the existence of the ‘Puppet Maker’ as well as his inhumane acts showed.

Right now he wields no weapon, but he’s in a stance where he could go into his battle mode in a moment’s notice.

Even though the Puppet Maker was a sham sorcerer, the strong, intimidating air the first grade sorcerer, Nanami let out could even be felt by an ordinary person’s senses.

Conversely, if one could still be relaxed in this situation, they are either an idiot... or they’ve lost their consciousness already.

“Ah, a-a-aaaah... wha-what are you, here for?”

“If you still don’t understand what we’re here for even now, just don’t talk, wont you? Stupidity stops being lovable when it’s too much.”

“I, I-I, I have no time left, no time!!”

“That’s our line. Soon it’d be four. Even if it’s on a business trip, I don’t want to work on off-hours.”

Nanami and Gojou, whilst keeping their side-by-side position, stepped towards the Puppet Maker.

In this small room, if the two of them were to block the way in, there’d be nowhere to escape.

It was a checkmate.

Now that it had turned this way, the action the Puppet Maker could take is limited.

To prepare himself to be rash and thrust through Nanami and Gojou to run away, or try to put up an unsightly fight by waving around a blunt weapon or something of the sort. Another one is to resign to his fate.

――in the end.

The action that the Puppet Maker took was neither.

“H-h-he, he――help mee!!”

“Huh?”

“I-I-I, I’m g-gla-glad. I was going to look for you guys! Real sorcerers! He-help me, if it’s money you want I have it! That’s why, that’s why...”

The Puppet Maker clung on to Nanami’s legs――and begged the latter to save him.

In that moment, both Nanami and Gojou felt a sense of wrongness.

Indeed, this man - this Puppet Maker couldn’t even be called a sorcerer.

It doesn’t have to be Nanami - even the high school’s first years would be able to control the situation. That was how weak this Puppet Maker is as a sorcerer and curse user.

However――he’s too weak.

The curse power inside the cursed corpse certainly wasn’t strong at all.

The technique used was also a simple one - to mechanically respond to a human’s calls, nothing but deceit.

Even so, he was too weak.

The person clinging on to Nanami’s legs was too weak, so weak he couldn’t have possibly used even that level of curse technique.

However, certainly the same curse power leaked out from the man.

In other words, they’ve finally reached the one truth.

“――Nanami.”

“Yes. We thought he’s cursing people just for fun――it seems that he’s the cursed one.”

As if the short exchange was a signal, the mutation started.

Ripping off the talismans binding the Puppet Maker’s clothes――countless ‘arms’ flew out from under the clothes, just like a whip.

“Tch,”

Nanami tried to dodge with the littlest possible movement, yet changed his judgment in a moment’s notice.

It was because on the tips of the ‘arms’ swinging around, jumped out some insect-like creatures. As he dodged the arms’ direct hit, Nanami took off his suit’s outer garment and brushed off the insect-like creatures.

The Puppet Maker’s body has truly become that of a puppet’s.

Human flesh and puppet colluded in a warped way to form a disarrayed contour. His neck and left arm still barely holds their flesh and blood, but there was nothing more tragic than his left chest below.

The puppet head distorted in hatred bit at his heart.

Sharp, wooden skeleton akin to a bamboo spear penetrated through his flesh, joining with his body. That body was already over 70% turned into a puppet, drawing a spider-like silhouette.

“Ah, aaaaaaaaaaaahh, help, he-help! Money, I-I have money, I’ll pay, so please exorcise this!! This thing, this thing this thing this thing this thing, get it away from me, away away away away AWAY AWAY!!!”

The Puppet Maker struggling from pain and fear waved about his countless arms as if whips.

That power by itself was just like a storm - if you were to take a hit with your body, your bones will definitely get crushed into pieces, yet that wasn’t its real threat.

The most repulsive thing is the countless small insects that came out of the puppet’s stomach, squirming over its skin.

No...... if you were to look closer, you’d realize that it was actually a swarm of small cursed corpses.

They were eating the Puppet Maker’s body, as well as the ‘babies’ corpses’ hidden below his clothes, as they propagate and grow.

“......A cursed corpse that’s also a production factory that propagates itself, is it.”

Knitting flesh and hair, even now some cursed corpses are being produced in a slow pace.

The man’s body had been too corroded that there’s no longer any need to tell of it.

And then, the last question was finally answered.

“I’ve been thinking... ‘If the baby’s skin is used in the creation of the cursed corpse given to the parents, then what did the culprit do to the rest of the flesh?’, but... I see, so he’s supplying the flesh for it to eat.”

“Even though he’d used dead bodies, I was still unsure how this kind of man could create such an elaborate cursed corpse, but...”

“It wasn’t something a modern day sorcerer could just make. If not a shadow of an old sorcerer family member’s former self, then it’s a cursed tool dug out from the depths of a warehouse... or rather, a cursed object on a rampage, ain’t it?”

“Considering how he’d prepared such a complicated transaction route, at first it must have been simply a way to make money. It is certain that there are evil intentions. There is no room for taking extenuating circumstances into consideration in the first place, but...”

Nanami sighed, completely exhausted.

“It’s something that devours not only dead bodies but also living things. We can’t take it slowly, can we.”

Gojou dropped his shoulders listlessly.

A puppet that eats human flesh and gives birth to other puppets.

Even though he’d collected flesh to provide meals for it, the Puppet Maker couldn’t feed it on time, and he’s now possessed by the puppet itself.

Whichever one of them shouldn’t exist in this world.

Nanami and Gojou has the same kind of expression on their faces.

The feelings held was resignation.

The face of a human who has accepted the situation.

And the Puppet Maker, who’d sought their help doesn’t take to it kindly.

“Eh, ah, aAh, aren’t you guys, go-going to he-help-heElp me......?”

“Naw, that’s impossible. You understood yourself, don’t you?”

“Although if it hadn’t progressed to this stage, perhaps Ieiri-san could have cut it off.”

Nanami reached his arm to his back.

On his back, he has a large blade befitting to be described as a nata[17].

Nanami carries it.

As someone who had quit being a salaryman and chose to become a sorcerer instead. He carries the blade that he must swing down.

Nanami thrusted the sword towards the Puppet Maker.

“Wa, wait, what is thAt?”

“7:3.”

Nanami swung his blade to cut the air.

“My technique allows me to cut my target into 7:3 segments... and by doing so, will forcefully create a weak point in them. It doesn’t matter if the target is an living being or an inanimate object. Even someone like you, who are a fusion of both, will be counted as one being.”

“......whA, whAt are you talking about......”

Disclosing your technique.

The amplification of the effects of a technique by means of binding. Under the condition of explaining your technique - a demerit - you could increase your attack power.

In other words, for Nanami it was like a a declaration of intention to absolutely annihilate the enemy.

“It’s not as if I don’t pity you because of your appearance, but it’s clear that in the first place, you’re the one that started it all by making money with a dangerous curse technique.”

“...O, oO, oI? You’re joking, right? I-I-I, I’m a human, you know? What’s a sorcerer like you try-trying to do to a-A-a a human with that blade?”

“It’s already too late for that body.”

“No, no, nonononono, ah, what’s with thAt treatment!? I, I, I resurrected the dead! And I saved them! The people’s hearts! I saved them! Yet, I’m the onLy one who su-su-suffers...! S-suffer... th-the he-hearts... hearts! Hearts!! He-he...”

“Your words and your consciousness is already unsteady. More importantly――”

Nanami skillfully swung his sword in the narrow space.

It was clear even to the Puppet Maker that Nanami’s movement was filled with a certain intent to kill. When you are cornered into an absolute predicament, there are only so little actions you can take.

Fear and impatience controlled the Puppet Maker.

And then...... the one who broke the tension was Nanami.

“――You who had scattered curses to other people are already a curse yourself.”

“I’ll KILL yOUuUuuuuUuuuuUUuuU!!!”

Thus, the Puppet Maker jumped towards Nanami.

Nanami did not move.

He only used his body’s recoil, and slashed the wind with his brandished blade.

“If you are an adult, then bear your responsibilities.”

A single stroke.

“――――Ah,”

The Puppet Maker couldn’t even let out a sound of agony in his death.

The technique power-upped by disclosure of information accurately cut the Puppet Maker’s body to a 7:3 ratio.

The body was cut diagonally from the shoulders, cleanly dividing the puppet part and the flesh and blood, and it fell to the ground.

The separated puppet body that had probably used the Puppet Master’s soul as nutrient to move made robotic clattering sounds before it finally stopped moving.

And then.

“......Ah..... Ah...... A, ah... Ah...... Aah......”

The Puppet Master muttered feebly in a voice that didn’t even form words, and finally stopped moving as if a puppet whose strings were cut. A few moments after, as if a child whose umbilical cords are cut down, the cursed corpses that looked like small insects also stopped moving one after another.

Ironically, even though only for a moment before his death, the flesh and blood of the Puppet Master that had been cut off from the puppet died as a human.

Even if that truth couldn’t clear one’s heart..... it was also true that Nanami’s single stroke was able to turn him back to a human.

“Good work there, Nanami.”

After Gojou patted his shoulder, Nanami swung his arms in a circular motion to ease its stiffness.

“It would’ve been way easier if you were the one to do it, though.”

“Even though he’s this kinda guy, if we still want to bury him as a human, then your technique is better suited than mine, y’know.”

“I really don’t want to be suited to this kind of job.”

“In any case, let’s take down just the curtain and let the others deal with the rest. As expected, disposing dead bodies are beyond my capacity.”

“This time you didn’t do anything at all, though, did you?”

With Nanami’s deep, long sigh as the last thing uttered by the two of them, the room turned silent.

The lion decoration, the synthetic-looking mummy, the pit viper in formalin was, as ever, enshrined in the room that has lost its master.

Was the owner of the room a human? Or a puppet?

At the point in time during which the two sorcerers arrived, the answer’s already vague.

However, the traces of blood spread out on the floor looked fresh and vibrant, as if proving his humanity.

Before long, those traces too, got wiped clean as if it was never there.

In the end, only silence remained in the depths of the underground.

✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈«

“There’s a saying that goes like, ‘heal thyself’, right?”

Gojou suddenly muttered, as he swayed his glass on the bar counter.

Gojou started the conversation without any preface, so it took Nanami a moment to realize that he’s being talked to.

“......Are you talking about the Puppet Maker?”

“About the entirety of sorcerers. To deal with a curse ultimately means to deal with people’s negative energy. Jobs that make you feel bad will increase.”

“So you’re talking about the dangers of accumulating curses within yourself.”

“Even if you’re used to it, it doesn’t really feel good, right? Makes you want to get drunk.”

“The drink you ordered was ‘Florida’, wasn’t it? That’s non-alcoholic.”

“I didn’t do anything, so I don’t have to get drunk.”

“Please don’t say that so confidently.”

As he looked at Nanami, who’s currently gulping down ‘Gimlet’, Gojou laughed.

“Nanami’s actually a compassionate person, right?”

“What’s up with you, suddenly?”

“You could divide your feelings, but it’s not like you’re okay. An adult more or less have a way to handle the frictions born from such a situation, right? That’s exactly why sake is a wonder drug for the heart.”

“That’s quite an uninteresting talk, but are you going to continue?”

“I’m really not teasing you at all,”

Nanami had a suspicious eye behind his sunglasses, yet when he made sure that Gojou doesn’t have his usual frivolous smile on, Nanami quietly returned to a listening stance.

Realizing that, Gojou continued.

“Seeing that the ones giving birth to curses are humans, then the students I’m in charge of, too, will one day have to face the evil intentions of shitty humans.”

“......That’s because they’re sorcerers.”

The world is full of irrational things.

People’s evil intentions, and the curses it gave birth to.

Not only sorcerers, every person has to bite into such bitterness, know what it means to give up, and pile up despairs to become an adult.

Nanami knows that.

And Gojou knew that Nanami became an adult by going through all of it.

That’s why, he made this speech to him.

“People like us knows how to release out such poisons that runs through the heart. However, youngsters that are on their sensitive period are different. There are cases where one poison could destroy their hearts.”

“To deal with the poison left inside children is the role of an adult. Shouldn’t someone in a teaching profession like you know that better than I do?”

“I know. That’s why I came to talk to you.”

Gojou gulped down the contents of his glass and ordered to the bartender.

“‘Cinderella’ for two, ‘kay?”

“You must be joking.”

Nanami narrowed his eyes at the fact that a cocktail even sweeter than the one Gojou ordered before was prepared for him, too.

Of course it was non-alcoholic. It’s a type of mixed juice.

Gojou ignored Nanami who seemed to want to complain as he turned his gaze towards the shelf behind the back bar and continued his words.

“There’s a child I want to try to leave in your care for once.”

“It’s not Fushiguro-kun, is it?”

“Itadori Yuuji. You know him, don’t you?”

“.........I heard he died.”

“He’s keeping the King of Curses inside of him. He’s on a different level than the bogus ‘puppet that could resurrect the dead’.”

The bartender slowly put down two glasses on top of the counter.

Golden colored liquid that looked like the setting sun.

Considering its name, perhaps it was the color of full moon. Or, possibly, the hair color of the young man whose name was mentioned in the conversation.

That cocktail was sweet, as if a happily-ever-after fairy tale overflowing with romanticism.

As he held up his glass and swayed it, Gojou continued.

“I’m also really busy, so a chance to talk to you without anyone bothering is somewhat valuable, y’know?”

“I understand that you hate the current sorcery world, but even so I am a person of regulation. I don’t know what kind of expectations you hold for Sukuna’s vessel , but......”

“Not Sukuna’s vessel. This is, to the bitter end, a talk about an individual by the name of Itadori Yuuji.”

“Surely he’s not in such a light situation that one is permitted to talk whilst separating the two?”

“You know, Yuuji is a really honest child.”

Gojou’s fingertips caressed the rim of the glass.

The sound that seem like the high note of a stringed instrument quietly rang.

“He has resolution and courage, as well as the decisiveness needed in battle. Even so, there are parts of him that are just too straightforward. It’s really worrying when a child like that gets his heart broken even once.”

“What do you want me to do now that you’ve said that to me?”

“I told you, didn’t I? I’m really busy. I can’t say I could get around to caring for his mental growth too. It’d help me a lot if there was a chance to leave him in your care even once.”

“You think I’m going to listen to your favor?”

“That’s why I’m making a request to you. Whether he’s a sorcerer or Sukuna’s vessel...... as an adult who wishes for one young man’s healthy growth.”

It was usual for Gojou to speak frivolously, irresponsibly, to line up words that you couldn’t ascertain whether he’s serious or joking. That’s why, you’d know when he’s talking earnestly.

“Because I want to leave him in the care of an adult who understands other people’s pain. Someone like you.”

“...You came here just to say such sugary-sweet[18] words?”

“You know that I have a sweet-tooth, don’t you?”

As he laughed, Gojou passed the other glass to Nanami.

A sweet yet sour golden cocktail.

For a short while, Nanami quietly stared at the cocktail that look almost as if it’s filled with youth’s awkwardness.

“I’m not good with sweets, though.”

Without particularly signaling each other, the two of them gulped down the contents of the glass at the same time.

“Sweet,”

“Delicious, isn’t it?”

In the quiet bar, two contrasting voices echoed.

The two sorcerer’s night wears on,

As it embraced the multitude of whirling hardships and the sweetness that remains in their tongues.

Notes

[1] 三方六 (Sanpouroku) is the name of a Hokkaido local sweet (kind of like baumkuchen). So yeah, it's not... really a question.

[2] じゃがバター (jagabata―)Literally potatoes with butter on top. I heard they're really tasty.

[3] Matsuyama Chiharu is a Japanese folk singer and songwriter. He was born in Hokkaido.

[4] Go is a Japanese board game.

[5] 石焼き芋 (ishiyaki imo). Some people make it at home.

[6] 目の付け所がサングラスの奥 - this phrase is usually not about sunglasses, but rather how one notices things that other people dont (目の付け所が違う） - because he changed the last word, it just became him pointing out where Nanami's eyes are.

[7] じゃが�� (jaga-imo) means potato - though you'd probably be able to infer that anyways, lol.

[8] 塩辛 (shio-kara) is salted fish entrails.

[9] Hokkaido is very popular for its dairy farms, so it's strange for Nanami not to try the local delicacy, but cookies and cream flavor instead. Also, Nanami's questioning why Gojou cared that much, after all he wears sunglasses so he most probably couldn't tell the difference just by looking at the color.

[10] 黄泉比良坂 (yomotsu hirasaka), according to Japanese mythology, is a hill that's also the border between the world of the living and the dead.

[11] Old Japanese websites usually have access counters. When you hit the kiriban (good numbers like 10.000, 15.000, etc.), you report back to the owner and sometimes they'll give you presents.

[12] Two tatami, one ken is approximately 3,65 x 1,80m. Super small, so Gojou asked what's there to share (since it's a share house).

[13] 反魂人形 (hankon ningyou), literally Anti-Soul Puppet, I think.

[14] Susukino is a shopping district located in the center of Sapporo.

[15] 居酒屋 (izakaya) means a bar, pub or tavern. You usually drink alcohol while eating snacks.

[16] 陰陽師 (onmyouji) is a kind of exorcist.

[17] 鉈 (nata) is like a hatchet? It's a traditional tool that has a wide blade and short handle, exactly like Nanami's.

[18] 甘ったるい (amattarui) also means sentimental.

I am super happy and excited that I managed to finish translating this chapter! The hardest part was definitely the fight with the bad guy...! Can’t wait for the second light novel to come out!! This one only has two stories left, the one with the curse group and the one about Ijichi. I reaaaaaaaaaaally want to read Nobara and Toge’s story TT.

#translation #light novel translation #jujutsu kaisen #gojou satoru #nanami kento

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