#like if I say hey I worked at sea and taught in Japan you should say 'oh that's nice' but not 100% beleive me

[auspicioustidings]

If you see a Call of Duty fanblog that claims they are or were in the military I can say that 99% of the time they are lying.

A cishet white man who had a good experience in the military will not engage in fandom and will only brutally make fun of it, if he had a bad experience he is nowhere near the fandom.

A cishet POC man is the same, it's just a lot less likely he had a good experience.

A cishet woman who had a good experience in the military is, almost certainly, an ultra conservative who would despise fandom spaces.

Anyone outside of the categories above 99% of the time did not have a good experience with the military. They may have PTSD not from war zones but from how they were treated in their own departments. They may engage with fandom, but they will never idolise these characters uncritically and are not going to joyfully make it a part of their online fandom personality that they are ex-military so can totally help you with details (which given that all branches of the military function totally differently and countries again function totally differently they can't).

As a good rule of thumb, if anyone on the Internet is making something about them that conveniently relates to the fandom they are in a major part of their personality, treat that claim as unverified and move on with your day. You do not owe strangers on the Internet your blind trust and they do not owe you proof of their claims if they are not actively hurting anyone with them. If you think they are using their claims to actively try hurting someone, block them. These people thrive on attention and negative attention spends just as good as positive, do not give it to them.

[imperfekti]

Tenipuri Party: Fuji Shuusuke profile translation

TN:

In the absence of an official English version, this translation is intended to help those who can’t read the material in the original language. Please support Tenipuri by getting your own copy of this book - it is worth it! There are various ways of purchasing it even for those not living in or visiting Japan.

The pictures I have included in this post do not show full pages.

On the translation: I’m aiming for a more direct, “Japanese-sounding” translation to share the mood of the content more as it is. This will probably cause some sentences to appear weird in English.

On Fuji’s style of speech: he uses a lot of little additions that soften the tone, and most of them are pretty hard to include in English. In general his style of speech is a balance of casual but polite.

I’m still working on Japanese, so there might be mistakes. Please let me know if you spot any translation errors so I can fix them here!

Fuji Shuusuke

U-17 Japan representative player, middle schooler Seishun Gakuen Middle-school player

Towards the distant sky, reflected in the mind’s eye --  A noble youth, soaring like a refreshing breeze

Message

“This kind of wonderful placement… it’s rare to get to taste it. Everyone, thank you so much. I’ll have to meet those expectations. (*1) Following the guidepost that I have made myself… I swear I’ll advance to greater heights. I’ll definitely show a new scenery to you too.”

Extra prize: a surprise box decorated with memorable photos “There are even balloons attached to it. An exciting, heart-warming gift. The music box’s tune was to my liking, too.”

Profile

[DATA] Middle-school 3rd year / February 29 (Pisces) / Blood type B / 167 cm / 53 kg / Right-handed

Special techniques: Tsubame gaeshi, Higuma otoshi, Hakugei, Kagerou tsutsumi, Houou gaeshi, Kirin otoshi, Hakuryuu, Hecatoncheires no monban, Hoshi hanabi, Closed eye (*2),  Aoi fubuki, Hikari kaze 

Play style: Counter puncher

Family: Father, mother, older sister, younger brother

Father’s occupation: company employee (foreign company)

Hobbies: Collecting cacti, photography

Favourite saying: What is important is invisible to the eye 

Favourite color: Beige

Favourite foods: All spicy foods, 100% apple juice

Favourite book: Travel journals, travel photo books

Favourite music: Celtic music

Preferred type of person: A person who smells like flowers

Preferred date spot: An observatory where you can see stars clearly

Most wanted thing right now: Stimulus (*3)

Weakness: Sour things

Elementary school: Seishun Dai Daisan Elementary School

Committee: Graduation album committee

Strong subjects: Classics

Weak subjects: Science

Often-visited place in school: Photography room

Uses allowance on: Taking care of cacti

Skills beyond tennis: Winter sports, recognising constellations

His routines during tournaments: Drinking coffee from all over the world, contacting his brother

Favourite anniversary: Birthday of the person he likes

Preferred travel destination: Salar de Uyuni on a night with shooting stars

Present for a special person: A ring made of flowers

Scenes

For Fuji-senshu, who had specialised in counter tennis, a certain incident at the U-17 camp became an impetus for an awakening. (*4) Making the Critical wind ‘Aoi fubuki’ his new weapon, he changed his style greatly into offensive tennis.

(Quotes on pictures:) “Tensai Fuji Shuusuke.” “Now, shall we go one more time…” “Was there this kind of an tensai sleeping in Seigaku?” ���This team reaching the nationals championship, that’s my wish!” “Game and set… won by Fuji Shuusuke…” “Critical wind ‘Aoi fubuki’” “One of the Critical winds, ‘Hikari kaze’” “I’ve already stopped playing just defensive tennis.”

Sparked by a certain oath, I began to aim for my own guidepost

Currently, both among fans and people involved, Fuji-senshu’s change to offensive tennis has become a topic of discussion. Was there some impetus for this?

An impetus? Well… I exchanged private oaths with a certain person - is all I think I’ll say here. Fufu.

An oath...? Please give us at least a hint!

Well, just a little, then… Before, I used to draw out the opponent’s strongest skills, felt the thrill of defeating them with a counter, and enjoyed myself like that. But in the end, that depended on the opponent. The guideposts you need to traverse on mountains, you have to find by yourself - that is what I understood.

About Fuji-senshu’s new technique, “Hikari kaze”. How are you able to react like that?

By ascertaining the opponent’s muscle movements and breathing, the moment that information is intracerebrally linked as an image, it’s as if time stops and all noises and the scenery of your surroundings disappear - only the trajectory of the shot the opponent has hit emerges as an signpost of light. So, from now on too, I will follow the guidepost I’ve found by myself, and am aiming to go beyond my limits.

Then, to finish, your objective from here on out is… eh, you already talked about that just now, didn't you?

Yes. I determined the next question before it was asked, and responded to it.

As expected of the prodigy Fuji. You got me there.

Message for Fuji Shuusuke

I thought you seem like you’d be popular with the girls. Alles gute! (Bismarck)

Congratulatiooons! By the way, show me your homework for the report next week ☆ (Kikumaru)

I made a lot of wasabi sushi as congratulations, so please eat them. (Kawamura)

I need to update my data. Congratulations. (Inui)

As expected, Fuji. Next time, let’s play until we are satisfied. (Tezuka)

It’s not something anyone can do. My respects. (Kaidou)

Congratulations Fuji-senpai! I won’t lose next time! (Momoshiro)

Not bad. But, please be prepared that I’ll snatch that from you one of these days. (Echizen)

Hooray! Should we take a memorial photo with everyone! (Ooishi)

I’m amazed. I feel like I’ve caught a glimpse of your hidden inner strength. (Duke)

Congratulations, you are the pride of Japan. (Noa)

Party talk

Q: What was your family’s reaction to the placement this time? A: I think my sister said ‘as expected of my little brother’. Yuuta… He was here, so I’ll ask right now. Hey, Yuuta --!

Q: Th-that bright red food…? A: I wanted to taste even more wonderful, stimulating foods. What about you?

Q: The singing performance just now was lovely! A: Being the first to go on the stage… it was thrilling and fun. (*5)

Q: Who have you talked with, and what was the topic? A: Member of staff, Oliver-san taught me about places near the tournament venue where you can see the starry sky well.

Q: During the sideshow, you took a picture of the audience, didn’t you. A: Because it’s rare to see Tezuka making that kind of an expression.

Q: Is there anything that has piqued your interest in the venue? A: That flower stand with cacti, I wonder which country it’s from… Tube?

History

Age 0 February 29 Birth

Age 4 After napping with Yuuta, is frightened by Yuuta who saw a bad dream and tears up

Age 8 Goes out sea bathing with Yuuta and Saeki

Age 9 Gets a camera from grandfather, starts taking pictures Is deeply impressed by the form of a swallow (tsubame) found in an aquarium

Age 12 March Graduates from Seishun Dai Daisan Elementary School

April Enters Seishun Gakuen Middle School Division Plays against Tezuka, is not satisfied

August Goes to Kawamura's house for the first time, wasabi sushi is made for him

December After Yuuta ran away from home, searches for him all through the night in the snow

Age 13 March The extremely spicy food he makes at gratitude-party is unpopular

April Proceeds to second year in middle school

June During the athletic festival cavalry battle, has a showdown against Tezuka (unsettled)

July Is scouted at his older sister's commemorative publication autograph signing party

February Succeeds(?) in a triple spin jump at the neighbourhood skating rink

Age 14 April Proceeds to third year in middle school Kikumaru, now in the same class, comes over to play for one consecutive week

May Start of the Tokyo Prefectural District Preliminaries Plays against Gyokurin in the quarterfinals, wins against Nakano in S1 Advances to the Semi-Finals November Plays against Mizunofuchi in the semifinals, wins against Egawa, Yamanishi pair in D2 Plays against Fudomine in the finals, defeated by Ishida-Sakurai pair in D2 by forfeit Wins the Tokyo Prefectural District Preliminaries championship, has a celebration at "Kawamura Sushi"

June Start of the Tokyo Prefectural Tournament Plays against Kamata in the Third Round, wins against Ishizaki in S3 Plays against Akiyama Third in the Fourth Round, wins against Morishima-Nishikawa pair in D2 Plays against St. Rudolph in the quarterfinals, wins against Mizuki in S2 Plays games with Yuuta who came to stay at home, loses Plays against Yamabuki in the Finals, defeated by Nitobe-Kita pair in D2 Wins the Tokyo Prefectural Tournament championship

July Start of the Kantou Tournament Plays against Hyoutei in the first round, wins against Akutagawa in S2 Bowling tournament with the Regulars Plays against Rokkaku in the semifinals, wins against Saeki-Itsuki pair in D1

July 27 Plays against Rikkai in the finals, wins against Kirihara in S2 Wins the Kantou Tournament championship Beach volleyball tournament during the joint training camp with Rokkaku

August 11 During a practice match with Tachibana, his Triple Counters are broken

August 17 Start of the National Tournament Plays against Higa in the second round, wins against Hirakoba-Chinen pair in D2

August 19 Plays against Shitenhouji in the semifinals, defeated by Shiraishi in S3 Participates in the yakiniku battle, drinks Aozu and drops out

August 23 Plays against Rikkai in the finals, wins against Niou in S2 Wins the National Tournament championship Is inspired when visiting a hollyhock gallery with Kawamura

October Is invited to an amusement park by a student whom he saved from groping, but declines

November Participates in the U-17 training camp Wins against Yuuta in the “friendly fire” matches The restaurant’s tabasco runs out, a restriction for use is put in place Plays against Tezuka who is leaving Japan, swears three things

December On the overseas training camp right before the U-17 world cup, faints from eating Akuto meshi at the pick-up tournament In Australia, enjoys coffees from all countries with Jackal U-17 pre-world cup begins Plays against Germany in the first match, wins against Bismarck-Siegfried pair U-17 world cup begins Plays against Australia on the second round of the qualifying league, wins against Mac-Milky pair in D1 Japan is qualified to play in the championship tournament

What I most want to photograph now is Australia’s starry night sky

During the camp and on off days, what do you do for a change of pace?

I guess the main one would be taking pictures. Especially on an overseas trip like this, taking a lot of pictures of sights I don’t usually see arouses my creativity.

Since coming to Australia, what kind of pictures have you taken?

When you go a bit outwards, there’s a desert, so I’ve taken a lot of pictures of cacti. But though you may say “cacti” in one word, there are tall ones, types that have a form that is round like a tennis ball, and so on - there are many different kinds. Besides that, I took pictures of koalas. Tanegashima-san recommended a good place to me… I could even hold them in my arms, so I had fun. What I’m thinking I most want to photograph next is the starry sky. Since it’s the Southern hemisphere, the scenery of the night sky totally differs from the sky in Japan. The Southern Cross, or capturing the Milky Way - I’d really like to take such pictures.

Do you show the pictures you take to someone?

I often send them to family and friends. I sent a lot of pictures of the koalas to my brother Yuuta, fufufu. It seems my sister likes cacti of weird shapes.

I think the fans also really want to see Fuji-san’s pictures.

I brought many with me today, so sure. I’d be happy if people would like them.

Photo

In Australia When I find the time within the U-17 tournament, I take pictures little by little. Don’t you think this koala looks like Yuuta?

Cacti We often go for walks together. Even if it’s a familiar scenery, it becomes fun when cacti are around. 

Family trip A camera is a magical tool that can cut out a scene that will not happen again. I can’t miss doing that when I’m traveling.

Fashion

Fuji really likes knits! Are you wearing the hat with ears that I gave you? (Kikumaru)

I’m not that interested, but protection against cold is important. It’s good to warm your body properly with a stole. (Ochi)

“I guess I wear a lot of clothes in white or beige. Especially in winter, I choose clothes that don’t clash with the snowy scenery.”

“After all, the feel when wearing something is important. Clothes with natural, smooth feeling materials are to my liking.”

Before, he used to wear things like shorts a lot, but it seems that’s not the case anymore. (Saeki)

Room

I’m aiming for a room with a Nordic taste Since around autumn, when I’ve had the time I’ve been changing the design little by little. I found an antique lamp, and I think I want to establish unity by using Nordic furniture. Next to my cacti, plants I got from Yukimura and Shiraishi have joined the group.

TN:

*1 Or “respond to those feelings.”

*2 Furigana says “closed eye”, but the kanji is actually for “kokoro no hitomi”, mind’s eye.

*3 "Shigeki": stimulus, impetus, incentive, encouragement, motivation, provocation, excitement, thrill.

*4 Literally enlightenment, spiritual awakening, opening one’s eyes to the truth.

*5 It’s not clear whether he is talking about himself, and I haven’t read the overall story yet, so this is my assumption.

[angstytieflingbard]

Hero’s Journey - Chapter Three: Study Session

Summary:  Link has an unfortunate run in with the press, and Bakugo saves him. Later, he has a study session with some friends. Someone leaves a gift on his windowsill.

Warnings: None? 

A/N: Admittedly, this chapter is mostly just about Link and setting some of his background and home life. Also I feel I should note, I'm using ASL rules for his sign language, though there hasn't been much so far. I know this takes place in japan, but I am far more familiar with ASL and how it works than any other sign language. It won't make too much of a difference except for the use of fingerspelling, which, while possible in JSL isn't used very much if at all most of the time.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy and as usual don't be afraid to tell me what you think!

~~~

School had been... difficult, today. It had started with the press outside the school gates, swarming like flies to rotten fruit, blocking off nearly all entry or exit. 

“Hey! You there, you’re a UA student, right? What’s it like being taught by All Might?” The reporter had asked, already in his face before he’d even reached the bulk of the press. Link blinked in surprise, and then his expression returned to the tired one he’d been wearing before he was accosted. He brushed past her as politely as he could. 

“Hey, what’s the deal? You think you’re too good to talk to us or something?” She’d said accusingly, and he flinched at the familiar anger. It was common, of course, for people to misunderstand his silence. And of course it only made it worse, not that she could know that. 

Link was determined to just slip through the crowd altogether, but then she grabbed his shoulder with surprising strength, perfectly manicured nails digging into his shirt jacket. The hero-in-training sighed, turning to face the woman. She sneered, which he imagined was her sarcastic way of giving him a smile, and then- 

“Oi, gremlin!” He heard a voice shout, and suddenly he was surrounded by the smell of burnt sugar as Bakugou grabbed the back of his blazer collar and hauled him back like some sort of cat. He huffed, expression somewhere between grateful and annoyed as the swarm of reporters parted like the red sea for the spiky blond shoving and growling at anyone who came anywhere near the two of them. 

Finally, he dropped him just inside the barrier of UA’s gate, and Link fixed his clothes, frowning cautiously at the boy. 

‘Thanks’ Link held the card out, and Bakugou scoffed, pushing the hand - and card - away from him with a surprising lack of malicious intent. 

“Don’t bother with that shit, dumbass gremlin. I didn’t forget what you said yesterday, you know.” Bakugou leaned in slightly to say it, and Link felt his hackles rise, all too aware of when he was being threatened. Link didn’t have a card on him for this particular scenario, so instead he just huffed and bared his teeth. Bakugou seemed to get the point, anyway, because his eyes narrowed like he was considering something, but then he stepped back and walked off, Link following a short ways behind. 

School had been fine after that, though the class officer elections were surprisingly high energy. Link himself didn’t have much interest, but it’d taken some thought as to who he’d vote for. Midoriya was his first thought, remembering his quick thinking and determination in the battle trials only a few days earlier, but he was also incredibly anxious, and, he thought with an apologetic wince, a bit of a pushover. He’d settled on Yaoyorozu in the end, appreciating her general kindness and level-headedness, something he knew would come in handy to deal with some of the rowdier students. 

It’d ended in a tie between Yaoyorozu and Midoriya, and a secondary vote declared the girl the winner. Midoriya seemed flustered that he’d gotten voted for at all, though there was a bit of a relieved glint to his eye that Link attributed to the boy not actually being made president. 

After that was lunch, and with it came the break-in. He was in the classroom at the time, along with Yaoyorozu (Momo, as she insisted), Tsuyu, Jiro, Shouji, Ojiro, Koda, and Hagakure, so he’d thankfully been away from the mass panic that’d apparently ensued down there. He wasn’t surprised when he’d looked out the window to find the press swarming around the door just as they had the gate, Aizawa and Present Mic keeping them from getting into the school. 

Eventually, though, that crisis passed as well, and his classmates started to filter back in. This also saw him reassuring a frazzled Midoriya that yes, he did still deserve to be vice president even though he hadn’t helped (it’s not like any other classes’ representatives had stepped in, after all) and no, he shouldn’t hand the position off to Iida even if he had been a great help in that situation. 

“I guess…” Midoriya murmured, still unsure.

‘You need to work on your confidence anyway. You have the leadership skills, and being vice president will help you get where you need to be to use them.’ He wrote, turning his notebook around to show, and Midoriya gave him a small, grateful smile. 

“I suppose you’re right.” Midoriya nodded, and headed back to his desk just as Aizawa returned to start class again. 

The rest of the day passed without incident, thankfully, and now he was packing his backpack up to go home, most of his classmates doing the same. 

“Hey, Link!” He turned at the sound, and found Uraraka inches from his face, a wide smile and warm eyes pointed up at him. Link didn’t move back, ignoring the short look of surprise on the girls face at his seeming lack of discomfort. He raised a brow at her, and she giggled. 

“I was wondering if maybe you’d want to have a little study group today? Just you, me, Deku, and Iida?” She asked, expression hopeful. He sighed, faking a thoughtful expression as though he wasn’t sure. 

“C’mon, please please please! I wanna have group bonding time, and there’s no better way to do that than with shared suffering!” She exclaimed, puffing her cheeks out and bringing up her hands in fists in a show of determination, and he huffed out a laugh, finally conceding to her. He gave her a nod and she cheered, hooking her hand in his elbow and pulling him over to where the other two were waiting by the door. 

“He said yes! Well, there weren’t any words, but he nodded!” She informed them.  

“We still haven’t decided where we’re going, Uraraka.” Iida reminded, expression as serious as ever. The bubbly girl only shrugged, smile still on her face. 

“Well, I mean, just one of our houses right? Mine’s a bit busy, bit if you don’t mind that, then…” She trailed off, offer lingering in the air for a moment. 

“Mine’s not exactly… busy, per se, but my mom can be kind of a lot for new people…” Midoriya said softly. Link pursed his lips thoughtfully. 

‘I could always invite them to my apartment… ‘ Just as he finished the thought, Uraraka turned to him. 

“What do you think? You look like you wanna say something.” Her smile turned a little reassuring as he pulled out his notepad, writing quickly with the attached pen. They waited patiently for his response, shuffling a bit out of the way of the door to make way for their classmates trying to leave. 

‘We could go to my apartment. I don’t think anyone would be around, so it’d be quiet.’ They all read the note. 

“That sounds perfect then. We can all head there together!” Iida gives a little chop to the air with his hand as he says it. 

“We should get going then, we don’t want to miss the train!” And with that, they were off. 

~~~

A little less than an hour later, they were all walking into Link’s apartment, giving curious glances around. 

“So this is where Link lives..?” Uraraka mumbled to herself, picking up a telescope on the table covered in little paintings of seagulls, carefully turning it over in her hands. Link pulled out his notebook again. 

‘That’s my cousin, Aryll’s. The school she goes to has dorms, so she only comes back on weekends and holidays. She left it here to “remember her by”’ The pink cheeked girl laughed, setting the telescope down. 

“Your cousin seems like quite the character.” She said, though her expression made it seem more like a question. Link nodded solemnly, making her giggle again. 

“So, where are we going to study?” Midoriya asked. He seemed a little uncomfortable, as though he wasn’t sure what he should be doing in this situation. 

Link made a gesture to follow him, and led them through the small, blue and green themed galley kitchen into a cozy little dining area, with a white table and chairs and blue curtains speckled with orange-red flowers. They settled in, studying and working on homework together. It was nearly an hour later that the conversation started to stray from their studies. 

“I almost forgot to ask, but where are your parents?” Uraraka asked casually, backtracking at Link’s grimace. “Oh, you don’t have to answer that of course! I was just curious-” Link cut her off, putting up a hand to signal for her to wait, and he wrote in his notepad, as he’d been doing for most of the afternoon. 

‘My dad was a pro hero, he died ten years ago, when Toxic Chainsaw first became active, and my mom died when I was still a baby. My uncle’s usually traveling for work since he’s a businessman, so usually it’s just me and sometimes Aryll.’ Uraraka blanched. 

“I’m… so sorry, Link.” Link shrugged. 

‘It was a long time ago. I barely remember my dad.’ The three glanced at each other. The mood of the room felt stifling now, so Link stood and headed for the kitchen. 

“Well, I guess we’re taking a break now.” He heard from behind him, and he couldn’t help but snort at the somewhat exasperated tone, working on getting the cooking utensils he needed. 

Link had always loved cooking. It was cathartic, and helped him clear his mind in the same way a good workout often did. Plus, Aryll always seemed to enjoy it, which helped. He set a pot on the stove, cranking up the burner all the way and starting to put his ingredients in. Carrots, butter, milk, some flour for good measure, and then left it to cook. 

When he finally brought the food out to them on a tray, they all gave him grateful smiles (well, Iida’s expression couldn’t be considered a smile, but it was the intent of the thing Link cared about), and set aside their phones and notebooks to eat. Uraraka was the first, and she immediately froze as soon as her lips closed around the spoon. Slowly, she pulled the spoon away, and they watched as she chewed and swallowed with some amount of effort. 

“How is it?” Midoriya asked with increasing concern. Uraraka hesitated, a calculating look flashed across her face, gone so fast Link wasn’t sure if he actually saw it. 

“It’s actually pretty good!” She smiled cloyingly sweet at the green-haired boy. Link was still watching them intently for their reactions. Midoriya’s brow furrowed. 

“Come now, Midoriya! What reason would Uraraka have to lie to us? Besides, we’re in Link’s house, it would be rude to not eat what he made for us.” Iida lectured, and the other boy All trelented, each of them trying the soup. 

Midoriya choked, face drawn tight as he swallowed down the bite. Iida’s expression was unreadable, and he put the spoon down almost robotically. Link gave them a satisfied nod. 

‘I’m glad you like it. Aryll used to react like that when I first started cooking for her. Now she barely even blinks. It’s nice to see people so openly enjoying my cooking again.’ Link dug in to his own food, missing the horrified looks his friends exchanged. 

“Hey, Link… Where did you learn to cook?” Iida asked slowly. Link gave them a gesture to wait a moment, and quickly downed the rest of the soup before turning to the notepad again. 

‘I taught myself, why?’ All three of them sighed. 

“No reason. We were just curious…” Uraraka told him, expression unreadable. Link nodded sagely. 

‘I could teach you guys too, if you want.’ 

“Link, don’t take this the wrong way, but I really don’t think that’s a good idea…” Midoriya murmured. 

‘That’s fair. The kitchen can get chaotic when more people are involved.’ The three exchanged a look of relief. Link pushed his notepad a bit away from him to resituate his notes, and the other three quickly did the same, stacking their own nearly untouched bowls of carrot stew on his to clean up later. 

~~~

‘That went well.’ Link thought as he waved goodbye to his friends. They all waved back, saying their farewells as they went, and Link closed the door behind them. They were all heading to the station together, so he wasn’t too worried about them despite the sun setting low on the horizon. 

The apartment seemed a lot colder now that they were gone, he noticed absently as he cleaned up. He hummed to himself as he did, voice soft and hoarse with its typical disuse. 

Link could only really bring himself to talk around Aryll, or by himself, and even then he still had trouble. He hated it sometimes, how he could be confident and happy and relaxed, but the second he even thinks of speaking his throat seemed to close up, lungs burning like he was out of air and eyes stinging as though ready to cry. It made things difficult, especially when people didn’t understand, and the way he was treated in those times only made it worse.  

He was glad he had friends now, ones who were kind and understanding to him about his inability to talk. He was glad for a lot of things really. 

Link found himself back in his room after cleaning up, and he paused in the doorway as a glint on the windowsill caught his eye. Approaching, he realized it was a small, green gem, glasslike in its translucence, propped up against his window to make it visible over the frame. He opened the window carefully and grabbed it, quickly shutting the window after himself and glancing out suspiciously, even knowing whoever did it was likely gone. 

He laid down on his bed, ignoring the fact that he still had his uniform (sans blazer) on and inspecting the gem in his hand. It was odd, for sure, but…

There was nothing he could really do about this. It didn’t seem dangerous, so he put it in a drawer of his desk, ignoring the strange familiarity he felt for it. He looked out his window again as he closed the curtains, and for a moment he was sure he saw a flash of white on a balcony across the street, but it disappeared as soon as he noticed it, seeming to be swallowed up by the darkness of the evening. Link frowned apprehensively, shutting the curtains tight and heading over to his bed. 

He was the only one home, and no one would believe him if he tried to bring it up, so he decided to leave it be. If it was something dangerous, then he’d just have to deal with that as it came. He was a hero student, after all. He could defend himself, even from weird people (or animals maybe, he reasoned) who left gemstones on peoples windowsills at night. 

Despite his own justifications, he didn’t fall asleep until the sun was starting to rise over the horizon.

[haven-raven012591]

The real Prince (part one)

I was new backstage and it was my first major job away from home. Really away from home, as in another country away from home. Which to most should have made it more nerve racking but to me I looked at it as an adventure. I had been briefed about who to avoid and when to do so. Most of the roster for New Japan were guys and some were married but the main one I was told to avoid was definitely not married to anything but wrestling. His name was Prince Devitt, ok so that was his ring name but his real name was Fergal Devitt. He was from a small sea side town in Ireland. He didn’t have the red hair that you think of when you think of anyone coming from Ireland would have. He had black hair, not a lot of it mind you since it was shaved on the sides so the only hair he really had was on the crown of his head. He had these amazing blue eyes that looked like they were older than what he was. Now he had been in New Japan for a while before I got there and that was his playground mostly. He was a six time tag team champion, Jr. Heavyweight champion and was now going for the Heavyweight Championship.

         That match was going to happen before I really started with the company but I was there to watch it and let’s just say that the man everyone had warned me about was now my new crush. The pictures that I had been shown did nothing to capture his gorgeousness. It was like a spell had been placed on me and it was something I’m not sure I wanted taken off anytime soon. I started the next week and he was there walking around like he owned the place and that was when I realized that the cocky Prince Devitt I had been warned about was true. When I watched him win the match he seemed confident but now watching him strut up to me was almost a complete turn off….almost. I had to admit seeing him so close and seeing the confidence that was coming off of him in waves was the perfect combination. Confident, cocky, a little arrogant, gorgeous beyond words, a complete professional in the ring.

And what I would come to find out is that off camera without the fans around Prince Devitt was surprisingly quiet and reserved, he was the watcher of the group of friends that he had. On the other hand he was also a complete Fuckboy, god he thought any woman within sniffing distance was his. To call him a dog may have been an understatement. He stood close to me and I moved back. “Personal space please.” I said. He laughed and I rolled my eyes. “I like a challenge.” Devitt said. “I am not one of your little groupies Devitt I work here with you I am a coworker, which means all this arrogant I own the company shit doesn’t work with me.” I said. He smirked and I sighed. “What’s yer name doll?” Devitt asked. I blinked surprised and licked my lips. “It’s, (Y/N).” I said. He smiled and took my hand I stuck out on reflex.

He shook it then kissed it softly. I laughed nervously and licked my lips again. It was like electricity ran up my hand when he touched me and I prayed that only I felt it. Devitt noticed that when he touched (Y/N) that something clicked inside him. “I have to go, your dressing room is down the hall and to the left it’s the last door.” I said and moved passed him. He walked down the hall and I turned the corner and sighed. He was gorgeous and all I wanted was to feel more of him, to feel his kiss. It was bad I had it bad for Prince Devitt. Karl looked at me with knowing eyes as I sighed and gave him the kit to hold. “I’m not a nurse ya know.” I grumbled. Devitt looked up at me and I sighed. “Alright just stay still this time ok.” I sighed and looked at his arm. “Damn Devitt, what did you do put your arm through glass?” I asked looking at him. He looked away from my Hazel eyes. He had for weeks now.

I licked my lips and took out the rag that was in the kit. He winced when I started to clean the scratches. “Ay don’t do that it fucking hurts.” Devitt snapped. I stiffened at his harsh words. “Get someone else to do this I’ve got more important shit to do.” I said and threw the rag in the kit walking out. Fuck him just that was it. All I had done was touch his arm and try to clean the blood off his arm. I stopped dead in my tracks and something so natural happened and I ran back to the dressing room. “Ay fuck Karl that shit hurts worse than what (Y/N) was doing yer gonna fuck my arm up.” Devitt yelled. “Karl go get another rag and a luke warm bottle of water.” I said forcefully and pulled my dark brown hair behind my shoulder. I had been taught that you pull your hair back to do anything. Karl looked at him then at me. “Please Karl I’ll fix the big baby up.” I said. “Oi I’m not a baby.” Devitt growled.

He stood up and I looked at the scratches on his chest as well as his arms. “Karl do as I asked.” I said. He left and I sat in front of Devitt. “I fucked up.” Devitt said. “Yeah no shit.” I said. He let me move close and inspect his wounds as I put my hand on his chest. “Good thing you have a week off or at least ICW can cover up all these scratches with paint spider-man.” I teased. He laughed and looked at my hands. “Yeah.” Devitt said. I just looked at him and looked at the scratches on his neck. “I’m not touching the ones on your neck you can get your girl to do that.” I said harshly. He looked away and I shook my head as Karl came into the room. I washed the scratches on his chest and watched a drop of water roll down his abs and wanted to lick it off him.

I was at a bar listening to the music that I couldn’t understand but it was beautiful. I loved where I worked it was absolutely beautiful the whole country. “I don’t know why yer here when there’s bars ya can understand the music in.” Devitt said. “I like listening to it, it’s beautiful Devitt you’ve been here like 3 years and you don’t speak the language like Karl can but you’re going to pick on me for loving the music.” I said. He sat down and I looked at him and he saw the tear run down my cheek. “What’s wrong?” Devitt asked. “It’s nothing.” I said. He walked off and I got up and went home. “This is so stupid.” I growled as I slammed the door. I changed into my bed clothes and flopped on the bed trying not to think about Devitt. As gorgeous as he was, he was also beginning to make me mad. I liked him more than a lot and it seemed like he liked me as well but then again he didn’t want admit that he could love or like one woman.

Things kept going and it seemed like the universe just wanted to keep throwing me and Devitt together. I was standing backstage in my little black dress with silver accents on it and it was pretty comfortable and I loved it. I had paired it with my combat boots so that if anyone dared to mess with me I could kick the shit out of them. That was what I had told myself anyway but when it actually happened I was kinda taken aback because of the one that it came from. “Hey babe.” Kenny said. I looked over my shoulder moving my long brown hair out of the way and looked at him. My eyes stared into his and I just raised my eyebrow. “I don’t know who you’re calling babe, Omega but it isn’t me.” I said. I didn’t have a very high opinion on him since he came a few months back he just seemed like a cocky little peacock and not in a good way.

“It is you and you know you like it.” Kenny said. “You’re pretty convinced of that to bad your wrong.” I said. I walked off and he followed me. “You’re just too hung up on Devitt.” Kenny said. I turned and looked at him and tilted my head. “And where did you get that idea Omega?” I asked. “I’ve seen you look at him.” Kenny said. “I am one of the only girls that he talks to that work here.” I pointed out. He moved closer and I looked at him. “Personal space Omega now back off or I’ll drop you.” I growled. He grabbed my arm and I slapped him. “Oi, Omega!” Devitt yelled. I smirked and Kenny turned taking me with him. “Let her go.” Devitt growled. I was taken aback by how angry he looked. He was red and panting from his match but those eyes of his said it all. “I think I’ll keep her.” Kenny chuckled. “I am not a fucking toy!” I growled and slapped at his hand on my bicep. “I think you are babe.” Kenny whispered. I dropped the clipboard I held and blinked at him. No one had ever been so vile to me and to say something like that to me when I wasn’t one of those groupies.

Devitt took three steps and Karl stopped him. “You have an interview to do.” Karl reminded him. Devitt moved him and took two more steps and was in Omega’s face. “Are ya the reason she was upset last weekend too?” Devitt accused. Kenny only grinned and looked at Devitt. Kenny’s grip tightened on my arm and I yelped in pain. Devitt grabbed his arm and pushed a pressure point making him release me then he punched him so hard Kenny hit the wall almost going through it. He looked at me and I licked my lips picking up the clipboard. “Devitt you have an interview to get to.” I said my voice still shaking. “I’ll get ta it later.” Devitt said. “They won’t be here later I will be.” I said. He nodded and I walked with him to the interview. He waited while I got my stuff that night. “I want ta know what he said ta ya.” Devitt said. I dropped my keys at that and he picked them up. “That’s not good.” Karl said. I looked at him and then at Devitt.

“Fergal listen what he said is…it’s messed up but I’m not going to be the reason you two fight again.” I said. He gave me my keys and I leaned up kissing his cheek. “I want ta know, I need ta know what he said ta you (Y/N), now.” Devitt said. “He said I was a toy ok you figure out what that means.” I said. He and Karl both growled and I licked my lips. “Ya know what it means yer not some air headed groupie.” Devitt said. “Which is the only thing you seem to want.” I snapped. He blinked at me and Karl walked away like someone had called him. “Tat isn’t all I want.” Devitt said. “Oh, no then how come your relationships don’t last longer than maybe two month’s?” I asked. He smirked and I rolled my eyes. “I get bored easily.” Devitt said. I laughed at that, he did and I knew that but on the other hand I wanted something with him and I wanted it longer than two months too.

We walked out and that night I went out with him and his boys just hanging out like friends do sometimes. It was a blast just sitting and listening to them all talk about what they wanted to happen and what they didn’t want to happen. Every now and then Devitt would look at me and smile a little. He was the one that was the quietest of the group and it was nice. The way he could turn it turn it on and off was a nice thing to know about him. He was loud and could trash talk with the best of him but the one thing that he did that made him more endearing to me was that he let what he did in the ring speak for itself. The Bullet club went onto become one of the most dominate factions in New Japan. I was just happy to know the guys and to know that I was safe from anyone that wanted to hurt me with them around.

Kenny waited for maybe a month before he tried again. “I know you love that cocky little prince.” Kenny said. I turned and rolled my eyes at him again. Go away Kenny just go away and that cocky little prince as you call him will have no added cause to kick your ass again.” I said on a smirk. He laughed and I just walked away. He grabbed me and I gasped as he shoved me into the wall this time so he was face to face with me. He was trying to kiss me when I head butted him and then he slapped me. “Listen you little slut if you can fuck him then you can fuck all the top talent.” Kenny said. I laughed and shoved at his chest hard. “I haven’t fucked Devitt you dipshit he has others to do that for him.” I said and scratched down Kenny’s face. He grabbed my wrists and pinned them above my head. I froze as he gripped the lace of my red dress I had on. “Kenny stop please just stop.” I pleaded.

I panted hard as he laughed and licked his lips ripping my dress. Devitt, Luke and Karl came around the corner talking and laughing. I waited for one of them to notice and when Devitt’s ocean blue eyes met my hazel ones I saw them go from warm to ice in a split second. He was there and Kenny was being held by Luke while Devitt unloaded on him. I was in Karl’s Arms shaking hard and he was watching and smirking as his friend told Kenny how they expected me to be treated. I found my voice and went to Devitt touching his back. “Stop Fergal, please.” I said softly. He turned and looked at me then back at Kenny. “If I ever see ya put yer hands on her again I’ll end ya Omega.” Devitt said. I stared at Devitt and he took my hand and led me away. “If ya ever run into that piece of shit again ya scream for me ya understand, (Y/N) I don’t give a fuck what anyone says if I’m not here ya yell for Karl or Luke ya understand?” Devitt asked. I only nodded and then he held me against his chest. “I need ta hear ya say ya understand.” Devitt whispered. “I understand Fergal.” I breathed. He held me closer and I started crying hard.

@soulofaravenheartofawolf @wrestlingxbalorxrollins @crayzeebizkit@wwesensualfanfics @loveroflive78 @devitts-girl @briqueenofthenorth@adriennegabriella @iwritewwe @empress-with-the-crown @2sweetqueen @scuzmunkie @meremaidqueen @dolphinpink310 @balorbj @alexnine

[whereiputtheotherstuff]

In this series Yurio (Yuri Plisetsky) is a more similar age to the other guys, so about 20+

(Gif note mine but writing is)

The Book - Part 2

To read part 1 click here

You begin to feel dizzy as the both of you become completely intoxicated with each other. A perfect moment forever frozen on the ice. Slowly Yurio pulled away, both of your faces now completely red in colour. You leant forward, nearly slipping up on the ice, grabbing onto his shoulders to steady yourself.  "Maybe we should get off of the ice." he chuckled. You laugh whilst nodding in agreement. Gently he guided you to the edge of the rink. 

After rummaging in your bag, you check your phone. The screen illuminated with the words across it reading '1 new message'.  "I have a message from Yuuri, inviting me to eat at a restaurant nearby in five minutes." you say to Yurio.  "Crap, I have the same message from Victor." he growled in a huff. 

Luckily the restaurant was close to the ice rink as you still did not know your way around Hasetsu. Not a single word was spoken in the short five minute walk there. Your mind wondered, you could not get the thought of what had happened in the ice rink out of your mind. So what should we do? announce what happened? or just pretend it didn't happen? You thought it best to follow Yurio's lead.

After entering the building, Victor waved the both of you over to the table where he was already sat next to Yuuri. Approaching the table, you watch Yurio eagerly as he gestured for you to decide where to sit. You took the chair opposite Yuuri, smiling at him as you did so. Yurio slumped down in the seat next to you, opposite Victor. You stared at the frown on the blonde's face. Denying everything that had happened it is then. 

"Thank you for inviting me here." you say politely.  "You're welcome. It is one of my favourite places to eat here and I thought that you must visit. The food is devine." Yuuri said smiling. The food arrived quickly and you all hungrily devoured it. Yuuri was right, it really was delicious.  "So (Y/N), did Yurio make today worth your while?" Victor asked. Your breath hitched in your throat. Did he already somehow know what had happened? "W-what do you mean?" you stuttered. Yuuri and Victor looked at you, confused by your odd reaction.  "Well after being such an ass to you, he wanted you to watch him practice on the ice for two days in a row. It's a bit mean to put up with him for the entire day twice." Victor laughed and he laughed harder when Yurio yelled "hey!" at him.  Thinking on your feet was never your strength but you gave it a try.  "Oh yes. He showed me some new moves he had been working on." you said in a slightly shaky voice.  "New moves? And how were they?" Victor asked whilst raising an inquisitive eyebrow.  "Pretty incredible." you smile. You could see out of the corner of eye a light blush fill Yurio's cheeks and a smile flicker across his face at your answer. 

You did not like being the centre of attention, it always made you feel uncomfortable. You bring your hands under the table and nervously start to play with the hem of your dress which covered your knees. Twisting the fabric in between your fingers. You jumped slightly as a hand covered one of yours under the table. It was Yurio's. He started to gently stroke your hand with his thumb. The physical contact calmed you, despite a light blush filling your cheeks.  Looking up you saw that he still had the same serious expression as he continues to frown at Victor. 

Feeling more at ease now you attempt to steer the conversation in a different direction.  "So did you boys have a good day?" you asked eagerly. Yuuri and Victor started to talk about how their practice went. How even though Yuuri had lost weight Victor was still not satisfied with his fitness level.  Little did they know what else was going on whilst they were talking. Underneath the table, you move your hand so it now held Yurio's. Your fingers entwining with his. A smile crept onto your face when this caused Yurio to let out a sigh of happiness. The evening's conversation continued and was full of laughter. Though the scenario at the ice rink continued to play in your mind. 

"Please excuse me for a moment" you say as you stand up and walk away from the table as you go to use the bathroom. Suddenly Yuuri's smiling face turned sour as both he and Victor stared at Yurio. His eyes widening slightly in reaction to the change in their expressions.  "Yurio, what did you do?" Yuuri questioned him.  "What are you talking about Pig?" Yurio growled.  "(Y/N). You must of scared her or something. She is so jumpy. She was shy when we first met but she seems uneasy tonight." Yuuri said accusing him. "Also Mari told me that she heard you yelling at her yesterday when you came back from practice. Something about a book?" Yurio paused for a moment with wide eyes.  "That was... Me being an idiot." he confessed. " Well what's new?" Victor chuckled which made Yurio frown at him again.  Despite still being unsatisfied with Yurio 's answer, you returned to the table before Yuuri could interrogate him any more. 

Even though all three men were smiling you sense the tension in the room.  "I-I was just wondering if we could walk somewhere and see some sights tonight?" you ask. It was true that during your stay so far you had not really had the time to stop and have a proper look around Hasetsu.  "What a perfect idea" Yuuri agreed. 

You all were walking by the beach which was lit by the setting sun. Staring out at the horizon you felt a little homesick, thinking about the large number of miles that now distanced you from your country and home. However you must enjoy the present and make the most of your time here in Japan.  "Guys please can I take a selfie with you three? I could post it on social media, my family would love to see who I'm staying with. They have already heard so much about you." you ask.  "Do we have to?" Yurio protested.  "Yes you do." Victor said, pushing Yurio towards you so he could be ready for the photo.  After deciding that Victor had the longest arms, he took a photograph of the four of you on your phone. The setting sun on the beach was the perfect backdrop.  After thanking him, you noticed that Yuuri whispered something in his ear and he nodded in reply. 

Walking closer you look out to sea. The sun rays causing the waves to glisten. Upon hearing approaching footsteps, you see Yurio walking towards you out of the corner of your eye.  "It's beautiful isn't it." you say.  "It is." he softly replies. Little did you know that he was actually looking at you rather than the beach. Appreciating how the colours of the setting sun lit your frame. He wondered to himself that the beach wasn't the only beautiful thing here.  Turning to face him, you stare into his eyes as they sparkled in the fading light. The both of you stood there in silence, looking at each other for a moment as you forgot that you were not the only people there. 

Suddenly you both snapped back to reality upon hearing Yuuri's voice.  "Is it OK if I talk to (Y/N) for a moment?" he asked. You frown when Yurio nodded and moved away as Yuuri cut in.  "So are you enjoying Japan?" he said in a positive tone.  "It is beyond amazing. Thank you so much for inviting me here." you smile. Yuuri looked down as he shuffled his feet. Sometimes it was easy to read Yuuri. It was obvious that there was something more pressing that he wanted to say.  "What is it?" you asked, unable to stand his needless fidgeting any longer. He took a deep breath to calm himself before speaking.  "(Y/N), are you OK?" he said in a serious tone. You tilted your head to one side confused by his question. What was he getting at?  "It's just... You seemed a bit nervous today... Has Yurio upset you? My sister Mari said that she heard him shouting at you yesterday whilst Victor and I were out. It's OK, you can tell me." he said worried.  "Oh... That was a misunderstanding. Besides we're friends now." you giggled nervously.  "Really? I don't think Yurio has ever been the one for making friends or at least so quickly." Yuuri chuckled. You could believe that. Also it was obvious to you that he and Yurio did not always see eye to eye. Now was definitely not the time to tell Yuuri about Yurio and you.  You giggled at Yuuri's unnecessary sad expression. You took one of his hands in yours, lifting it slightly whilst staring into his eyes, so he knew that you were telling the truth.  "Really" you said in a serious tone with a smile, making him chuckle. 

As the sky darkened, you all decided to head back to the Inn. Whilst you walked back Victor offered you his jacket as he noticed you shiver because or the sea breeze. He lazily hung it over your shoulders as you expressed your gratitude.  "Hey (Y/N), seeing as you had to put up with Yurio for two whole days in a row. Why don't I teach you some of the basics of skating for an hour tomorrow after practice?" Victor said as you all walked through the front door of the inn. You froze a little. A grin flashed onto Yurio's face, which he quickly tried to cover with his blonde hair. You started to think about yesterday and all that he had taught you. It would take no time for Victor to find out that you were no longer a beginner. But then again, to have Victor Nikiforov teach you ice skating was an absolute dream come true.  "I would love that Victor, thank you!... I must admit that since arriving here I been watching quite a lot of skating videos on YouTube, so I may know more than you think." you smiled and Victor chuckled. 

"Just try not to tire yourself out when you watch Phichit practice. Victor is a very thorough teacher." Yuuri added. Of course you nearly forgot that tomorrow you were watching Phichit practice in the next town. You must remember to bring your book so you could sketch him. Automatically, you looked at Yurio whose eyebrows had turned into a frown as anger burned in his eyes. He must have forgotten that too. Little did you know that he was not at all happy that he would hardly be seeing you tomorrow. Especially now that you had grown closer. 

Raising your hand to your mouth, you attempt to stifle a yawn.  "I think my bed is calling me. Have a great night guys." you say as you start to walk towards your bedroom. Suddenly you feel a hand grip onto your arm which stopped you in the middle of the hallway. Quickly you turn around to see Yurio stood there. You had hardly spoken to each other since being at the beach. Looking around you realised that the both of you were now alone together and walkway from prying eyes. 

He continued to frown but there was a sadness in his eyes. After a minute or two, it was Yurio who broke the silence.  "You don't have to go with Phichit tomorrow if you.... I mean it will probably will probably be boring... I mean.. I.. I don't want you to go... I'll miss you." he admitted as his cheeks blushed red. You giggled. It was the first time that his hard exterior had completely melted away to reveal his vulnerability. You raised your hand moved some of the stray hairs out of his face.  "It's just for tomorrow." you giggled, unable to believe that he was jealous. Your hand stayed on his face and started to stroke his cheek as you smiled.  Slowly you leant forward and pressed your lips on his.  "Ok" he whispered with a smile as he pulled away.  

[thefinalcinderella]

DIVE!! Book 1 Chapter 7-WHAT DO I HAVE?

Hey this was supposed to be up earlier but I was busy sorry

On the bright side I’ll probably put up two chapters this week (in anticipation for ‘’’’that scene’’’’’ next week OMG)

Also I kind of have mixed feelings about some of the changes about the rivals’ characterizations in the anime, but at least they’re still kinda pathetic like they are in the book

List of translations here.

Previously on DIVE!!: Foreshadowing. Oh, and that Beijing thing that takes up like two chapters in Book 2.

The Asian Joint Training Camp in August. Their goal was to try to be able to participate in it by any means, and the practice of Tomoki and the others suddenly heated up, with the drive and tension in each dive being entirely different. Everyone aiming for the qualifying trials at the end of July had begun a fierce spurt towards it.

Youichi’s resolve to abandon all of this summer’s three biggest competitions was especially amazing. He had already possessed abilities far above ordinary people, and if he continued to do the extraordinary practice like he was doing now, his dream and being awarded the first prize at the qualifying trials will not be unlikely, not to mention being chosen as one of the training camp participants.

Tomoki, Reiji and Ryou were presently struggling with the degree of difficulties of their entry dives, which were all on the same level as each other’s. Although, their level was considerably below the bar as to whether or not they would be one of the chosen six at the qualifying trials. From this unfavorable position, Tomoki was undergoing special training to turn the tables around with his forward 3½ somersaults in tuck position. Judging from its degree of difficulty of 2.7, it wasn’t a very complicated move to dive with. However, the impact of a middle schooler taking on the 3½ was great, and when they learned that Tomoki was striving for that event, Reiji and Ryou immediately went to talk with Kayoko.

“Please teach us the 3½.”

Kayoko, surprisingly, easily agreed.

“Of course. If you are motivated, I will teach you. But, 3½ is a huge challenge in every way, and I think the possibility of being ready to perform it in time for the qualifying trials is low, so you should just properly polish your current skills.”

They joined the 3½ practice with joy.

When tackling a new event, before divers perform it in the pool, they must first of all thoroughly grasp the intuition of the performance on land. For that, they use a special equipment called spotting equipment. (1)

Imagine that there was a four- or five-meter-high iron bar crossed over a trampoline. A rope is passed through the bar, and is tied to a round metal fitting secured to the waist of the athlete on the trampoline. There were two coaches on both sides of the bar, and they hold both ends of the rope. Every time the coaches jerk on the rope, the body of the athlete is pulled up into the air with great force. By rotating in the air, they could get tips for movement and timing. This teaches the sense of rotation to the body.

This exercise synchronises your breathing exactly with the coaches who are pulling on the ropes for this practice, and if you mess up the timing, the metal fittings attached to your waist will bite into your stomach and cause you great pain. Usually, Tomoki and the others avoided it, but this was the only time that no one complained about it.

Youichi, Tomoki, Reiji, and Ryou. While they made the MDC flourish in this way, it was always the new member Shibuki who raised a louder voice than anyone else.

Okitsu Shibuki. Until now, he had his own way of diving, and he flared up at anything from the MDC coaching methods, which were the standard methods and didn’t feel right in his skin at all.

“Saves (2) are unneeded. That’s what Gramps said. I won’t do it.”

Every time he quarreled with Kayoko, Shibuki always quoted the words of his grandfather Okitsu Shiraha, the phantom genius diver.

“Saves are one of the most important techniques for divers. When you dive from the platform, if you enter the water perpendicular to the surface, there would be no water going up. A beautiful rip entry will be settled upon. However, in reality, the angle will be too shallow or too deep, and a deviation will occur, to a greater or lesser degree. Saves will help you control that deviation in the water.”

“So, you’re saying it’s a cheater’s technique. Gramps taught me thoroughly on how to enter the water upright, rather than that cheap trick.”

“That’s an outdated way of thinking. In order to decrease the burden on the body that is the cause of injury, it’s essential for today’s divers to learn saves.”

“I don’t need it. First, I don’t know you like rip entry dives so much. Diving was always about competing with beautiful and powerful aerial performances. When did it become a contest for counting splashes?”

“From the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. An American athlete performed a flawless rip entry dive and got into the limelight. Since then, that technique spread rapidly.”

“Did I come here to dive so that I get too scared to make splashes? This is ridiculous.”

“There are ridiculous people in the world who watch a soccer match and wonder why the players don’t use their hands. Sports have been like that from the start. Getting into rules and values made by people you don’t know, and seizing anything sublimated (3).”

“The quality of the judges has fallen. Because they don’t have the power to observe aerial performances, they only focus on the splashes that are easier for them to understand.”

Losing the argument, Shibuki became sulky and started to blame the judges for being petty. Since he had never been in a competition, he had no way of knowing about the quality of the judges, so that must have also been second-hand knowledge from Shiraha.

Kayoko was again reminded of just how much influence of Shiraha’s shadow had over Shibuki. In order to build up trust with him, that shadow must be removed. However, that would require considerably drastic measures. Thinking about this, Kayoko was feeling increasingly anxious about the future.

Because usually, the living could not easily defeat the deceased.

                                      Death of the Genius Diver

“August 29, 1991. A small fishing boat fishing off of the coast of Aomori Prefecture was hit by a large wave caused by Typhoon No.19, and capsized. The passengers onboard were Okitsu Shiraha-san and his eldest son, Hiromi-san*, who both died…”

Seeing this article appearing in a corner of a newspaper at the end of last month, it seemed that I was not the only one that suddenly had the memories of bygone days come and go.

Okitsu Shiraha. Once you have heard this name, you will never forget it. It had a great meaning for us who knew the Japanese diving world in the 1940s.

He was the darling of that era who created a huge sensation in the Japanese diving world at that time. If everything went smoothly, he definitely would have been the top diver of the world. I only saw him dive once—at a Takarazuka pool after World War II—but his grandiose, almost ghastly performance was still burned into the back of my eyes. I have never seen an overwhelming dive like that since then. Of the blessed people who were able to see Okitsu Shiraha’s performance even once, didn’t they all harbour those same feelings?

Nevertheless, despite having such power, Okitsu Shiraha was also a diver from a tragedy.

He gave up on the 1940 Tokyo Olympics. He didn’t participate in the 1948 London Olympics. Due to the aftermath of World War II, at that time Japan had been away from the Olympics for sixteen years. In the era where Okitsu had peaked both physically and technically, it wasn’t just the Olympics, but also the Japanese sports world who were in total self-restraint mode, so it was hardly a situation where they could participate in competitions.

If Okitsu was in an environment where he could fully demonstrate his abilities in that era…even now my heart still aches thinking about a natural talent aging and leaving his abilities unused, and the regrets of this genius going home uncrowned. In 1952, when Japan finally returned to the Olympics, Okitsu was already over thirty. What were his thoughts beneath the sky of his hometown as he gazed at this grand occasion that came too late?

Fortune and misfortune shadow a person for their entire life. This was all the more true for athletes. However, Okitsu’s bad luck wasn’t just limited to himself, but it seems to have been bad luck for the entire Japanese diving world.

If Okitsu at his peak was given the door to the world in that era, he would have opened it and spread his wings to the farthest reaches. However, that door remained tightly closed. And even after more than fifty years, the Japanese diving world is still unable to spread its wings out into the world.

Now, the door is given to all athletes. But, there is no one with the power to open it.

The spirit of the former genius diver sleeping in the sea of Tsugaru might never rest in peace, no matter how much we pray for him.

--Iwamoto Shouzou, director of the Japanese Swimming Federation

“Wow. This is a good find.”

Tomoki said in admiration as he raised his eyes from the booklet spread out on the table.

“My mom helped out with some JASF work. She was in charge of all the bulletins like that. When Dad was talking about Okitsu before, she pulled this out.”

Youichi said, then sucked at his unmuddied iced coffee through a straw.

They were at the Mizuki Sports Club after dryland training. The two of them went to the coffee shop Top on the first floor. Only housewives and office workers who went to the gym went there, so there were no faces from the MDC there. Because they tended towards cheap fast food, this place was more favorable for confidential talks.

“So, what do you think about that article?”

“What do I…well, anyways, I was surprised. Okitsu-kun’s father and grandfather both died at sea.”

Grandfather and father. How would I feel if I lost them both at the same time? That happened eight years ago. Tomoki couldn’t imagine what the then-eight-years-old Shibuki felt.

But, Youichi seemed to be more interested in something else.

“Do you feel a grudge?”

“A grudge? From who?”

“Okitsu Shiraha, of course.”

“Why?”

“You really are too good-natured.”

Looking like he thought this wasn’t even worth talking about, Youichi leaned back in his chair.

“You see, according to this article, Okitsu Shiraha had his best years as a diver stolen from him by the war. He couldn’t go to enough competitions, so he grew old without being able to compete against divers from overseas. How would you feel if that was you?”

“Well, I guess frustrated, but…”

“Okay. Watching Okitsu Shibuki, Okitsu Shiraha seemed to have hated diving. Okitsu’s diving is certainly incredible, the scale is huge and daring, it’s rough, but his power makes up for it. But, I can’t help but feel that power seems to have come from something like hatred and anger. It’s the anger of a diver who had talent but died without ever being rewarded for it.”

“But…the reason he was not rewarded was because of the war, so you can’t really blame diving for that.”

“It’s not that simple. Okitsu Shiraha only had some half-baked talent, and ended up having to sacrifice everything for diving. He had to endure many things, dedicate himself to diving, and what’s the result? Diving gave him nothing at all. The only thing diving did was to steal everything away from him.”

“Aren’t…”

Aren’t you reading too much into it, Tomoki wanted to say, but he hesitated, since it seemed like Youichi’s words were directed at himself. He might have also been living at the expense of everything just because of a half-baked talent.

Friends. Studies. Girlfriend. Having fun. The caramel on pudding. Even for the not-very-talented Tomoki, the amount of sacrifices he had to make were not insignificant.

“Of course, sometimes I think that I don’t want to do diving. And when I’m in a really bad mood, I really regret it, but…”

Tomoki trailed off. He thought back to when he first met Youichi six years ago, and the mysterious words that he had told him bluntly. You’ll regret it.

You’ll regret it, and become stronger.

Every time he failed at trying a new event, Tomoki remembered those words.

Looking at the unexpectedly silent Tomoki, Youichi grinned and raised an eyebrow.

“It seems like you’re struggling with the 3½.”

He was as perceptive as ever.

“Don’t give up. And don’t forget, it isn’t just Asaki Kayoko who’s expecting something from you, you know.”

“Eh?”

“My dad was saying that Okitsu Shibuki’s diving is certainly incredible, but as a diver, he has a fatal flaw. On the contrary, Tomo has the strongest weapon.”

“Weapon?”

“Asaki Kayoko noticed it. That’s why she had her eye on you.”

Tomoki took in a deep breath and looked down at his hands. Of course, there was no weapon hidden in his hands clasped on the table. Compared to Youichi, his body was embarrassingly scrawny and unreliable, so why on earth would it have any kind of power?

“Most of what my dad says is like gas from a senile fossil, but I think there’s some truth to it with regards to you. It’s probably that there’s something in you. I don’t what it is yet, but when I watch you dive, I get drawn in by something. I’ve been drawn in for a long time, which is why I’ve been watching you.”

“Watching me?”

“Don’t get careless. I’m looking out for you like this, but maybe I’ll trip you up one day as a consequence of that.”

With a straight face, Youichi left words that were neither joking nor serious, and stood up to leave the dumfounded Tomoki.

Towards that beautiful profile and body which were headed for the cash register with a sales slip in hand, the women in the shop glanced at him repeatedly with rosy gazes.

Okitsu Shibuki had a fatal flaw as a diver.

Conversely, Tomoki had the strongest weapon as a diver.

The words that Coach Fujitani had told Youichi didn’t leave Tomoki’s head for a long time afterwards.

What is the strongest weapon?

Why on earth would he say that when I can’t even do the 3½?

There was Youichi, who was the model of a precise and beautiful performance, and there was Shibuki, who had an unconventional personality in a powerful performance.

Tomoki wanted to know what he had.

He didn’t want to just aim for succeeding at a technique. He wanted to be like Youichi and Shibuki, and grasp the kind of diving that only he himself could do. This was the first time that he had ever thought this.

Translation Notes

1. Spotting equipment: you can see some examples of it here.

2. Entry saves are a technique that helps the diver look like they’re entering the water vertically for a rip entry, since it’s impossible to make the body perfectly vertical. Read about it here.

3. Sublimation is that phase change where solid turns to gas. Not sure what that was doing in this sentence

4. Remember when I mentioned in Chapter 4 that the Okitsu family have sea-themed names? Here’s more: Shiraha (白波) means “white wave” and Hiromi (大海) means “great sea”.

Next time on DIVE!!: My favorite chapter!!