#like why could i still take a man in combat over this. its been YEARS. I HAVE NEVER FULLY REWATCHED THE SHOW SINCE 2017

[coulson-is-an-avenger]

you would think after years of distancing myself from and not keeping up with Star Wars I would actually care less about it. And Yet.

[bet-on-me-13]

Bruce Wayne was never Batman.

So! The night that Bruce Wayne's parents got shot, he developed an Unbreakable Resolve. He needed to get rid of the Crime that had taken his Parents away from him, no matter what.

But that night, he also developed a deep-seated fear of Death. He was face to face with his own Demise and instead of dying himself he saw his Parents die instead. He was Terrified of ending up like them.

But he still needed to stop Crime. He couldn't just let criminals go unpunished, and while he was still using his wealth to try and prevent it before it began, he knew there needed to be something to stop crime After it had been committed. And the Cops were useless on that Front.

He eventually found a solution while looking through his Parents Family Heirlooms.

Ancient Books dating back to the founding of Gotham and even before then, telling of a Creature from another world who his Ancestors had helped in the Past. A Being of Fear and Shadow, who owed a debt to the Wayne Family. He needed that Being. A Monster of Shadows and Fear was exactly the answer to scaring criminals away from committing crimes and punishing those who did.

But he needed to find the Being from another world first.

So he left home, traveling across the Globe training with the best Magicians and Demonologists in the world in search of the Monster who owed his Family a Debt. His travels took him far, from the streets of LA where he met a man named Zatara, to the Snowy Mountains of Nanda Parbat where he learned of the Lazarus Pits and the Demon's that came out of them.

While studying the Lazarus Pits, he was trained by the organization who guarded them. They despised Weakness, and while their leader was in awe of his Intelect he was less impressed by his body's conditioning. If he was to study the Lazarus Pits, he would first have to earn the Right in Combat.

He eventually managed to pass their Tests and eventually left them, having handed over a Copy of his research as the price for being allowed to Study the Pits.

Years later, he finally returned to Gotham, fully equipped to Summon the Being that owed him a Debt.

Bruce drew up the Summoning Circle as perfectly as he possibly could, he had one shot at it.

A drop of his blood and a splash of Lazarus Water later, and the Circle began to glow an ominous Green. Slowing, a shifting shadow began to emerge from the Circle, at first only a mass of writhing darkness before their form Solidified.

The Books he had found on the Spirit said that it would take the form of the Summoners Greatest Fear, which just so happened to be Bats for Bruce. The Form that the Spirit chose reflected that, with large Dark Wings falling over their form as if they were a Cape, and horns looking like the Ears of a Bat. From the Darkness, two glowing eyes appeared.

"Spirit, hear me. My name if Bruce Wayne, and I am calling in the Debt owed to my Family centuries ago. My City is plagued with crime and malice, rotting from its Core. My efforts to prevent Crime from the side of the Light have been in vain, Crime persists despite my efforts. In order for my vision to be fulfilled, the Criminals of this City must have their hearts pierced by Fear. Fear of Retribution. Fear of Consequences. Fear of Vengeance."

Thoughout bis Speech, the Shadowed Figure stayed silent.

"That is why I have called you here. I want you to stalk these streets, punish the criminals of this City and strike fear into their hearts from the shadows, so that they know to stay in the light. I don't want you to Kill them, never kill them. Let them live with that fear in their Hearts until their final days."

After he finished his speech, the Figure finally spoke.

"Your Quest is an Honorable one. You seek the betterment of your people's, and are unafraid to resort to drastic measures to achieve that goal. It reminds me of my Liege's resolve." It Spoke, it's voice low and rumbling. "Very Well. From this day forth, I shall protect your City from the Darkness in its own Heart. I shall be your Dark Knight."

...

Had this idea out of nowhere and needed to write it down. In this AU, Bruce still wants to protect his City from crime, but is understandably traumatized from seeing the Deaths of his Parents. He has a deep-seated fear of Dying, so he chooses to forgo fighting crime himself.

Instead, he finds out about a Spirit that his Ancestors helped long ago, and decides that the most logical next step out be to Summon a Demon to protect his City. Instead of training his Body for a decade to become Batman, he trains his Mind and Studies as much about Magic and Demon's as Possible.

He still knows how to fight because he trained with the League. He approached them with an offer to study the Lazarus Pits and give them his findings, and they accepted. But Ra's didn't want a weakling on his Base so he also required Bruce to train his body. He saw his potential for combat, and was so disappointed that Bruce had chosen a different path. He could have been Great!

Bruce still has a thing with Talia that produces Damian, he is still a point of interest from Ra's since he is insanely smart and has huge potential, and he knows how to fight pretty well. Albeit not as well as in Canon.

Bruce becomes the Benefactor/Guy in the Chair for Fright Knight (who is the one he summoned if you couldn't tell), who looks like a "Bat Man" because of Bruce's fear of Bats. Fright Knight agreed to this because 1.) He had a debt to pay, 2.) Bruce reminded him of Danny, and 3.) He respected Bruce's ballsyness to Summon a demon and command it to protect people.

Bruce still adopts his Kids, but there are some changes.

Dick is adamant about fighting Crime, and eventually Bruce is forced to let him go on patrol with Fright Knight, who has started going by Batman. Thankfully Frighty managed to give him some blessings so he had minor powers and would be safer.

Jason is mostly the same, and he is so excited that Robin actually IS Magical. When he dies, Fright Knight, who had gotten attached to their Family, goes into the Zone to search for him. He is unsuccessful unfortunately.

Tim is kind of funny. He figured out that Dick was Robin, and Jason was the 2nd Robi , but assumed that Bruce was Batman. When he approached Bruce about becoming Robin so he would stop going down his violent Cycle, Bruce Redirected him to talk to Fright Knight, who was not taking his failure to find Jason well.

Damien grew up knowing that his Father was a Genius, and the Master of the Batman, which gave him a bit of an Ego. At first he thought of Fright Knight as a Servant, and tried to command him like he did with Alfred. Frighty corrected him quickly enough.

Any more ideas for this AU? I have so many, but I think I need to stop for now.

[willowed-wisp]

to the winter wedding (part two) [ ghost ]

part one

Growing up you had fated encounters with Simon Riley that would continue into your adulthood. You a combat medic and him, the one you ended up treating.

“Mum, I look like a dusty grape… I can’t go to that wedding looking like THIS!” The dress was sleek, as you hoped. However, it made you wholly self-conscious. It was just a spaghetti dress, long line lilac dress. But you hated yourself in it.

Though your mother objected, “You are ridiculous… you look better than I ever did in it. And besides, it’s not about you… Beth is the bride, you’re a guest…” That was what you needed to hear, it wasn’t about you. People weren’t going to be looking at you…

Everybody but Simon Riley…

You would be fine…. That was until you sat outside of the venue in your car, stalling to enter the church. Why did you feel like that? Simon wouldn’t even look at you like that, he would have made a move on you years ago if he intended to.

So taking a deep breath, hands leaving the wheel of your car. You left the vehicle, locking on the key. At just the right moment for the air to be knocked out of your date; your hair down and long lilac dress that matched his tie down to the fabric. His tawny eyes wide- more expressive than you’d witnessed previously, “Fuckin’ hell…”

That concerned you, “Does it look horrible? I told my mum I didn’t look good…”

He remained gobsmacked, “You’ve got nothing to worry about…” His arm looped, hooking your arm through.

Butterflies constant in your stomach that night: eyes on you and Simon arm in arm and managing to catch the bouquet- looking instinctively at your date. Wishing alcohol was in your system, unable to shake that overwhelming weight on your chest. Worsening when his hulking frame stood in front of you, “Need some air, ya comin’?” Nodding, passing the bouquet to a random bridesmaid. Following the man who stood out like a sore thumb to outside of the secondary venue.

Without hesitation, he brought his lips to yours; seeing if you tasted how he imagined. It’s all he had thought about the entire night… many nights… flutters in your middle were numbing. The slightest smile drawn on his lips while you were sure his hands, rested at your waistline were there to stabilise.

One intended peck turned into a series of kisses. Your eyes finally opened, meeting those of molten russet. His lips ghosted over your own, barely there but that warmth mixed with his laboured breathing. "Please say this isn't a dream..." Your breath tickled against him.

His eyes spoke numerous emotions; shock, longing, gratitude and adoration. Your breathing slowed while his heart beat grew furious under trembling fingertips. "I'm right here, Y/N… want t’ go to my place?”

Crashing against his front door, his mother still present at the reception while Simon’s tongue was down your throat. Breaking apart from you, “I’ve waited too long to do this…”

Whipping off the jacket from his structured arms, “You have no idea,” claiming him in a starved kiss. Your fingers in his thick hair, his hands spreading your legs.

His cheek to yours- a whisper in your ear, “Jump, love,” Hooking your legs around his waist; a groan slipped from your throat each step he took up the stairs. He could imagine why, not able to restrain himself with your legs draped around him- grinding against the tent in his trousers. An ache in you building by the second, no alcohol in your system. It was pure desire and fuck did you need him.

Your body caught air for the slightest moment, body on top of neatly made bedsheets, the moonlight loomed through the curtains. "You’ve been driving me crazy, Y/N…" Your name rolled so easily off of his tongue- wondering what other uses he had with it. The shirt that hung on his shoulders found its position at the base of the bed, before the weight on the bed shifted- Simon’s frame shadowed your fully-clothed body. His mouth tickled your neck until that sweet singe of pain, your head coaxed onto the pillows of the bed. Breath hitching every nip he took.

Unable to take action, as he was in full control. Pinning your hands with such delicacy to either side of your head as he laid waste to your arching neck; acute snappy breaths each graze of his teeth. Simon worked down the length of body- across the dress just leaving delicate pecks. All a euphoric blur.

Before you knew it he was hilted in you, every duty and purpose you had ever burdened put on the back burners. This was you and Simon, not the frontlines of a war. Shared breaths of laboured passion the only thing lingering in the world. Your head fuzzy with desire, nails scraping along his scarred, muscular back. A moan strangulated as his back dipped, hand coiling further and forceful in your hair. “Simon…” Fallen from your full lips, tickling the hair curved at his ear. The man kissed your temple.

His name fell from your lips again, shouting da curse. Scrapes along the blades of his shoulders and fingernails indented his neck while he took care of your bare chest and clavicle- love bites scattered north to south of your pretty body, just as your back arched before his eyes.

You weren’t thinking- the only thing you knew was his name, ripping a spasm through your core. An insatiable grumble from Simon- so light in the air, not like his usual rough tone.

Blood drawn from his neck, your grip like a vice back lifting off the bed. Simon’s cock lburied all the deeper, and your voice was crying out. Vision clouded in the bright haze by his chest then how he chewed at his lip slamming his hips into you, a sight enough to quiver at; dripped in sweat and flopping hair stuck to his forehead. His lips agape towering you. All but a glimpse as he devoured, a warm wave of salted sweetness.

It did little to smother the noise, it just made that craving for him peak- perched in his lap all while he throttled upward. Arms slack over the broad set of shoulders, left panting into his soft neck. Avoiding the fresh scars you had treated, so mindful of them even in the throes of sex.

Worlds apart to what you’d been used to. Nobody had fucked you out like this man, how could someone be so abrasive but so forgiving in the same moment.

You had never such peace, in a vintage dress on the naked lap of Simon Riley. His arms holding you close while sharing a fairytale kiss, holding his shaven jawline.

Resting at the side of him, rubbing circles onto his defined chest. Following old stab wounds, Simon’s nose buried in your messily clad hair, “Have you ever wanted to get married?”

You were caught in a daydream, “Well… I’ve never met the right guy. Never had luck with that,” You turned to look into those gorgeous eyes, “Have you?”

His face unreadable, though his hand rested around you, “I’m 25 and I’ve been in love with this one woman…” His warmth was scalding, or it might have been the jealousy running through your veins. Until the pin dropped.

“You don’t mean…” That knowing look intent on his smirking face, “You mean me?”

Fingers twirling in your hair, “You looked at me like there was something worth looking at… every time you ran into me…” His scarred, much larger hand fitted around yours- lacing his fingers. “You also saved my life, so that goes a long way…”

You were rendered speechless, at ease in the silence while in the safety of Simon’s body. “Don’t let me go… please…”

“Like I ever could…”

And he never did.

Stood in that same church a year later, this time you wore white and Simon in his military formals.

————

I hope I did a good job on this… and thank you for reading xx

————

cod m.list | request guidelines | ghost m.list

[posh--bee]

Ein Kompliment || König

pairing → König x Reader

summary → König comes home from deployment to find you singing and dancing to a German song in your kitchen—completely surprised by how well you speak his language.

warnings → none, just tooth-rotting fluff, no descriptions or pronouns used for reader, no y/n used

author’s note → This is just a self-indulgent domestic little oneshot because I felt nostalgic for some German music from when I was younger :) The title means “a compliment” and it’s also the name of the song. You can listen to it here. Also, I have literally no clue about CoD and never played one of the games for even a second, but this man still managed to steal my heart.

word count → 2.1k

König could hear the music blaring even through the closed front door of your home, the muffled sound of electric guitars, drums, and the singer’s voice greeting him when he put the spare key you had trusted him with early on in your relationship in the lock and turned it. 

The door opened and the music became even louder, clearly originating from the little radio you had in your kitchen, and a smile formed on König’s face when your cheerful voice joined the singer. From the sound of it, König guessed that you were in the kitchen as well and he carefully placed his bag next to your shoe rack, not wanting to give his presence away just yet. He had intentionally told you he wouldn’t come back home to you for another week just so he could surprise you. The lie had left a foul aftertaste when he had told you and the disappointment in your voice had nearly broken his heart, but in the end it would be worth it, he had told himself, seeing your face light up in delight when you spotted him and jumping into his arms, clinging to him and covering his whole face in the sweetest kisses, the sound of your joined laughter filling your home. 

König couldn’t wait to finally see you again, the weeks and months without you by his side were nothing short but torture for him, but he forced himself to take slow and silent steps towards your kitchen, not wanting to ruin the surprise so close before its grand reveal. Despite his size and mass his heavy combat boots made almost no sound against the wooden floor of your hallway, and he was confident that with the help of your music playing you wouldn’t notice him until he stood directly behind you and wrapped his strong arms around your smaller frame, probably giving you the fright of your life before you recognized your gentle giant, scolding him with giggles and kisses for scaring you like this.

König couldn’t shake the smile that pulled on his lips at the thought of it, but a sudden realization made him stop dead in his tracks, just outside of the open door of your kitchen. He couldn’t believe that he hadn’t noticed it sooner but the song that had been playing since he had arrived wasn’t in English—it was in German. 

And you were singing to it.

König’s eyebrows knitted together in confusion and he stayed still while listening to the sounds coming from your kitchen, wanting to make sure that all the blows to the head he had received during missions didn’t manifest as him suddenly hearing something that wasn’t actually real.

After a few more moments of concentrated listening, he came to the conclusion that he didn’t suffer from an auditory hallucination and that you were indeed singing along to a German song even though you had claimed to not speak his language. Your pronunciation was a little bit off, that much was true, but you more than made up for it with your enthusiasm while singing along to the lyrics and König wondered with a frown why you had never told him how well you spoke German. Needing to investigate this surprising discovery further, he peered into the kitchen, dimly remembering having heard the song playing on the radio from time to time over the years, the first time probably even before he had joined the German Armed Forces. 

The sight König was met with left him breathless in the best way possible, a warm feeling spreading in his chest while he watched you dance to the music in the middle of your kitchen, singing into a clean whisk with your back towards him, completely oblivious to his presence. He couldn’t tear his gaze away from you, couldn’t move a muscle or find his voice to let you know he was home, just watching you with pure adoration in his eyes, his heart almost bursting with all the emotions he was feeling at this moment. 

You were still dressed in your pajamas, your feet sliding along the tiled floor with your movements because of the fuzzy socks you were wearing, stumbling over some longer words in the lyrics of the song but continuing to sing all the same. The bright and clear morning light shining through the kitchen windows illuminated the room almost magically and created a halo around your head, and König swore if he had a ring with him right now, he wouldn’t have wasted any more time and go down one knee, asking you to spend the rest of your life with him—even though he hadn’t had the guts yet to tell you that he loved you.

Just when the second verse of the song came to an end you suddenly spun around and spotted him, freezing for a few seconds to process that your boyfriend was home already and standing in your kitchen before your eyes lit up and the smile on your face became blinding. König opened his mouth in an attempt to greet you, to tell you how happy he was to be back and how much he had missed you, but his voice was still lost, not being prepared to be caught by you, his grand reveal now ruined. 

You however weren’t deterred by this surprising turn of events at all, you were nothing short of ecstatic to see him again and König couldn’t help the big smile on his lips, readying himself to catch you when you jumped into his arms like you always did. But it seemed you had other plans and instead of your usual greeting you lifted the whisk back to your mouth with a twinkle in your beautiful eyes, pointing at him with your other hand. König lifted an eyebrow in confusion, wanting to ask what you were doing but you preempted him, joining the song still playing on the radio again, singing the refrain to him, your eyes never leaving his.

Ich wollte dir nur mal eben sagen

I just wanted to tell you

Dass du das Größte für mich bist

That you are the greatest thing to me

Und sichergeh’n, ob du denn dasselbe für mich fühlst

And to make sure you feel the same way about me

Für mich fühlst

About me

Your little performance left him speechless for the second time that day, still dumbfounded by how well you spoke German, not to mention that the meaning of the words you were singing to him pulled at his heartstrings. You were always vocal about your feelings for him, never hesitating to tell him just how much he meant to you, but hearing you sing something like this to him in his own language made him absolutely weak in the knees. 

And of course this was when you decided to run to your boyfriend and jump into his arms after all, completely catching him off guard and for a moment he struggled to hold you up which was something that had never happened before. But once you had your arms securely wrapped around his neck and your legs around his waist, he held you with ease and was promptly rewarded for it with a beaming smile and a kiss on his cheek.

“I missed you so much,” you sighed and pressed your forehead to his, overcome by a wave of emotions at his early return home. The weeks and months without him were always lonely, your bed feeling cold and empty without your personal heater holding you close at night and refusing to let you go, your whole house not feeling complete without your boyfriend lounging on your couch or sitting at the table and doodling in his sketchbook, quietly humming to himself. 

“I missed you too,” he murmured against your lips before kissing you deeply, blindly walking you both towards the kitchen counter and gently setting you down on it, only breaking the kiss when you ran out of breath. You smiled up at him and put the whisk down beside you in favor of cupping König’s face with both hands, your thumbs caressing his skin, running along the prominent scar on his lips and the slight stubble along his jaw.

His eyes fell closed as he leaned into your touch, his body relaxing against yours but still cautious not to put too much of his weight on you, feeling truly at home now that you were in his arms again. But there was still a question on his mind that he couldn’t shake off, so he quickly reached for the radio that was playing a new song by now and turned it down before asking, “When did you learn to speak German so well?”

The smile on your lips became bashful and it was one of the few times in your relationship that you had to avert your gaze from him, usually König was the one struggling with maintaining eye contact even after being with you for some time already.

“I started learning it when we got together. I used some apps and stuff and started to listen to German songs as well, that really helped. I wanted to surprise you one day when I’d more confident with speaking it,” you admitted in a small but proud voice, delighted that he thought you were good at his language already despite being caught before you considered yourself the same way.

König stared down at you while his mind struggled to process your words, wondering if you had made it your personal mission to render him speechless as often as possible today because so far you had been doing a fantastic job at that. He hid his face in the crook of your neck when you looked up at him again, too overwhelmed to from any kind of verbal response to your explanation, his heart beating violently against his ribcage. He hadn’t thought it was possible to fall even deeper in love with you but here you were, proving him wrong again and again, now by secretly learning German just for him.

With a sympathetic chuckle you allowed him the time he needed to collect himself, wordlessly rubbing up and down his back with one hand while gently running your fingers through his hair with the other one, making him hum in appreciation.

You smiled up at your gentle giant when he untangled himself from you again and took one of your hands in his much larger ones, calloused fingers nervously playing with yours, a blush creeping up his neck to his cheeks and all the way to the tips of his ears. You quirked your eyebrow at him, wanting to ask him if he was okay when he locked eyes with you, a resolute look on his face that made you understand just how important his next words would be to him.

You sat up straighter, your heart beating faster and a pleasant and warm feeling settling in your stomach at being in the center of his undivided attention, at having him look at you like you were the most important thing in the whole universe. 

And to him you were just that which is why he couldn’t let any more time pass without him telling you just how much you meant to him, making sure you knew that he felt the same way about you. 

König’s voice faltered slightly when he began to speak but he was determined to finally express the true depths of his feelings for you, his fingers tightening around yours, the feeling of your warm skin against his grounding and calming him, encouraging him to carry on.

“You are, without a doubt, the greatest thing that has ever happened to me and you make me the happiest I’ve ever been in my life. A-and what I’m trying to say with that is that I love you. I love you so much.”

Hearing his words and the sincerity in them made your heart skip several beats and you felt tears of pure joy welling up in your eyes, unable to say anything in response. König constantly showed his love for you in other ways and you had never doubted his feelings for you even once since the beginning of your relationship, but hearing him say it out loud touched you deeply, making you the happiest you had ever been in your life.

You gave him a teary smile and before König could even think about apologizing for making you cry you pressed your lips to his, pouring all of your emotions into the kiss, making him gasp quietly at the intensity of it. You chuckled affectionately at the displeased look on his face when you pulled back all too soon, but you just shook your head, lovingly gazing up at him before softly saying,

“Ich liebe dich auch.”

You loved him too.

[simp-ly-writes]

A Suit Filled Surprise

Pairing: Commander Philip Graves x teacher!Reader

Summary: its been awhile since you had last seen your husband; thankfully your coworkers are there to help.

Warnings: mentions of anxiety and a sprained wrist.

A/N: why do i love this man. WHY. feeling feral for graves rn.

Masterlist | Taglist | edited.

The kids were filling in their worksheet and continued to work on their printing as you continued to mark yesterday's grammar quiz; taking the time to place stickers and small motivational comments after each answer.

Pencils scrapped across paper in the background as the cheerful screams of other students on break coming through the floor level windows overpowered the small conversations happening between table-groups.

Checking in on the students you noticed as the curtains floated with the breeze. It was half-way to the summer break and the buzzing fan trying to combat the southern heat was struggling much like your sprained wrist. You smiled thoughtfully at the rows of desks while twirling your wedding band; thinking back to the card and chocolates they all bought you to get better soon.

Before you could make your way back to your desk to continue the mountain of papers and the ever-flowing flood of parental emails; your coworker Christina waved you over form your classroom joining door. Smiling and bringing your finger to your lips; she nodded and smiled widely herself before turning back around and explaining to her older grade that she would be back in a minute.

are you ready for parent-teacher night with your class? i could use some help with mine if you have time during your spare? Christina asked as she kept glancing towards your hall door. Yet just as you became growingly curious she held your arm and began to show you a list of planned material to prepare for over the summer. Nodding along while becoming a bit concerned over her obvious anxious figure.

You held her hand and opened your mouth; about to ask if you should look over her room so she could revive a much needed break early. Yet it would be the silence of your own classroom that overtook your concern for Christina; followed by a series of unanimous giggles that held your heel; about pivot to ask the class what was so funny.

You then felt Christina squeeze your hand before she asked your class to join hers; making sure she still held your full attention. Her eyes began to crinkle joyfully in a knowing look that had your anxiety reeling across your skin- turning pink.

As all the children joined the older class in the next room; Christina addressed the class while gripping on to your form, okay class! storytime together please- practicing their collaborative skill for their final report card. Looking at you once more than at the door; smiling widely she dropped your hand and walked back her room; closing the door behind herself.

Turning back to look at the now empty rows of desks; the children still played in the background as you made your way back to your desk. Shifting through the papers and submitting them on your records sheet you pen flew across the page. Marking a large red streak as you heard a throat clear.

Turning towards the door to glare at whomever decided, eyes going wide in seeing your husband, in a suit, leaned against the doorframe with flowers in his hand as you began to have flashbacks to prom all those years ago.

C'mon sweetheart is that anyway to greet your husband? Graves teased as you watched him stand upright and start to saunter up to your desk. Blinking in reaction; your body thought him to be an illusion; starting to shake; eyes becoming wet.

Baby, baby. He began to console you, kneeling beside your chair and taking your hands in his own as he began to rub small circles on the back side of your palms. You felt the cold matching ring against your skin as a smile began to form widely across your face matching his own.

Closing your eyes as you felt him cup your cheek and kiss the other; moving to your forehead next and then all the way down to your lips. Giggling at his scruff tickling your nose. You lightly grabbed the outlines of his suit jacket and pushed him away gently.

Large puppy dog eyes were all you had received in return. I missed you.

How about you show me how much? home is calling... he trailed off while glancing back at the door than back at you. He pulled your frame up lightly and then pulled you back into his lap. Starting to brush his nose against your neck, sighing softly; awaiting your response.

As you breathing and shakes still, you accidentally shift in his lap earning yourself groan, how could I ever say no to this suit?

I was debating between this and my field outfit; yet I figured I would become less of a scare with this... Laughing at your husbands commentary over a simple outfit, you felt yourself being lifted with a squeal escaping your lips and being carried out the door towards a black car. While exiting the building you saw Christina hold two thumbs up with a wink as you buried your face into his shoulder.

Placing you in the passengers seat he took off his coat jacket and threw it in the backseat and rolled up the sleeves of his dress-shirt to his forearms before leaning over and giving you a kiss. Igniting the engine, he placed a warm hand across your thigh.

Tracing the veins up his hands and arm; you saw his body shiver in response before moving his hand away and giving you a playful glare before moving his eyes back to the road. Let's just say that the drive home was a bit longer than usual...

[ominous-feychild]

CHARACTER INTRO:

RISING FROM THE ASHES

KIEVA CARON

(slightly sarcastically) “I'm sorry, it appears I must've left my sense of humor at home.” - Kieva Caron

Despite being the adoptive son of Caron—head of one of the world's most well-renowned academies and a man extremely prominent in the public's eye—Kieva himself is a bundle of mysteries.

When Kieva was only seven years old, a feral berserker appeared on the outskirts of Maunne. It brought ferocious storms, savage lightning, and a senseless brutality with them, attacking all who approached and causing dozens of casualties.

None of the local guards or mercenaries were able to do much more than escape with their lives or those they'd been tasked with protecting.

So they sent for aid from the king, who then dispatched Kieran Caron himself—a man well-adapted to combat and disabling opponents of all kinds—to quell the savage beast's fury.

Only for him to discover that it was a child.

A child incapable of speech, more animalistic than human... ignoring, of course, the fact that it wasn't human. But Caron still saw it just as worthy as protection and love as any other, and, recognizing its frenzied attacks were attempts at self-defense, petitioned to be allowed to take in and raise the child himself.

He was later named Kieva.

Due to Kieva's inability to speak, read, write, or understand language prior to his adoption, he was never quite able to tell Caron or any others why he'd been found in the frantic state he was. By the time he knew enough to share what'd happened, he'd long-since forgotten... and had grown comfortable in his new life as Caron's son and Tián's brother.

Kieva's history prior to his adoption is surrounded in mystery, but his life afterwards is easily tracked: he was raised no different from Caron's biological son, treated with love, all but pampered, and allowed to wander about Lotus Academy to attend any and all classes so long as he never disturbed other students.

Which... he didn't.

Even before Kieva officially enrolled in classes himself, he observed other students learning, lowkey participated in lessons when he could without disturbing others, and picked up various skills from his observations.

So Kieva had a major head start—alongside being raised and given self-defense lessons by Caron himself—when he officially started taking classes himself.

And that's not even mentioning his berserkerness.

Berserkerness?

Kieva Caron is a berserker: a creature gifted with enhanced senses, healing, and strength—both physical and magical—directly tied to their emotional state. Positive moods make them generally healthier and more resilient, while negative moods take a toll on their overall health, strength, and resilience.

Anger and fear can even further boost the strength of a berserker, amplifying it past "inhuman" to straight-up monstrous. They can crush bricks or trees with a simple grip, heal from near-fatal wounds within minutes, react to things with a speed and dexterity far beyond human capacity, and accomplish magical feats 10x their usual might. All it takes is for them to choose to lose control.

That's where berserkerness turns into a curse: tapping into that power slowly corrupts both their will and appearance, making them visibly less and less human while increasing their tendency toward rage and violence.

Even if they manage to stray from the path of wrath, their appearance will be forever warped, a reminder of what they've done.

Although it's unknown in-universe—and, in fact, theorized to be random or genetic at best—berserkers' appearances are warped relative to one (or both) of two things: what they want to be or what they see themself as.

Beyond his typical berserker antlers and fae-tipped ears, Kieva has two pairs of wings—a small set on the sides of his head, naturally covering his ears, and a large set stretching over his back and shoulders that let him fly.

Similarly, he sometimes can have talon-like claws for fingers and the taloned legs of a falcon.

Which brings up the last point—although it's next to unheard of in berserkers, Kieva naturally has mild shapeshifting abilities. On top of being able to mildly warp his limbs and features to hide parts of his berserkerness (but never remove his wings or antlers), Kieva is able to transform parts of his body into electricity. He uses this ability during fights both to avoid attacks and to move near-instantaneously across large distances.

Not only is Kieva an absolute mystery because of his origins, but he's a marvel in the face of what arcanists and scientists alike thought they knew about berserkers.

Fortunately, Caron has kept their investigations far away from him.

And may it forever be a mystery.

Appearance

Beyond his fae-tipped (pointed instead of rounded) ears, double-pairs of silvery-gold wings—one small pair often covering his ears and the other, large set stretching over his back and shoulders—and deer antlers, Kieva otherwise tends to look human when not tapping into his berserker strength.

Kieva is a pale, effeminate, 5'7 (170cm) young adult man with messy, shoulder-length white-blonde hair he often ties back into a bun, grey eyes, and thin-but-soft features.

Kieva overall has a wiry frame, bags under his eyes from a frequent lack of sleep, and often appears deadpan or unassuming.

After the beginning of RFtA, Kieva gains (non-continuous) burn scars over his jaw, chest, arms, and hands from the Disaster of Vemor.

Personality & Motives

Kieva, now aged 19, has long-since acclimated to his life as Caron's younger son. Early into his childhood, he would constantly wonder about his life before, where he'd come from, and what had happened to his biological family, but he's given up hope of learning.

Not only are the memories lost to him, but Caron's own investigations—incredibly thorough and the results of which were occasionally shared with Kieva—pulled up nothing.

So, instead, Kieva has fully accepted Caron as his father and Tián as his brother.

Caron's strong sense of justice—and the nobility of taking him in to begin with—has rubbed off on Kieva, making him incredibly stubborn, kindhearted, and protective of his loved ones.

Despite his known origins as the berserker that terrorized the outskirts of Maunne twelve years ago, Kieva is an incredibly calm and collected person, mostly minding to himself. He's overall professional, but turns deadpan sassy around his friends and casually intimidating with aggressors—both his own and others'.

He's spent his entire life learning about combat, had nothing but a loving family who've made him well-aware of his strengths and weaknesses, and has no problem turning the tables against those who deserve it.

Kieva wants nothing more than to become a knight, protect those in need, and, most importantly, make his family proud.

So... how's he going to feel when the investigations into the disasters around Kihroin start bringing up more questions about his past?

Rising From The Ashes Taglist:

@honeybewrites @the-golden-comet @illarian-rambling @ashirisu @urnumber1star

@the-letterbox-archives @48lexr @aalinaaaaaa @thecomfywriter @an-indecisive-nerd

@leahnardo-da-veggie @world-of-iridensia

Introductory Taglist:

@paeliae-occasionally @pluppsauthor @thelovelymachinery

(request to be added to the permanent taglist if you'd like to be! You will be dropped after a few introductory posts!)

Dividers made by @saradika!

[marabelle5]

Files

The Copper King walked through the hallways of the Emperor's HQ that they call Mangriovia. The walls were lined with torches and the sound of the Copper King’s sandals walking on the wood floor could be heard throughout the tunnel. There were many tunnels in Mangrovia each going to a different room or rooms. It was quieter than normal on a Sunday at noon. Then again he was headed to one of the rooms most of the Emperors didn’t take a second glance at. 

The Copper King put his gem in the stone and it lit up, beige ruins glowing as the Copper King heard rusty gears turning as the door opened and he stepped into the archives. The Copper King ran his hands over one of the millions of shelves. It was a big room. What made it feel bigger was the small table at the center of the room with only two chairs. 

“We’re dealing with Void and The Red King.” The Count’s voice sound strained over the comm

“The Farmer Queen and I will be there soon.” The Grand Wizard replied.

 The Copper King smiled as the Mage King replied about being there. Void and The Red King were going to have to fight the Wither Rose Alliance. He wished Void and the Red King luck. The Copper King sighed as he turned to look at the files he needed to look though. 

The Copper King was planning to take this afternoon to look at as many villain records as he could. There were only 20 something of them. How hard could it be? 

The Copper King strolled past the As and the Bs and the Cs and so on until he got to the Hs. 

“Hybrids…, hermits! Wait no, that's hermit crabs. Ah there are the Hermits.” The Copper King muttered to himself. He pressed his comm knowing that the fight was still going on so he put it to ‘Not The WRA’ mode. 

“Hey does anyone know why we have a whole box of files for hermit crabs?” 

“I think it was one of the things the Hermits did a few years back.” Spring replied.

“Shouldn’t that go in attacks then?”

“The Count wanted that to go in its own bin. I have no idea why though.” The Ice King added.

“K Thank you for answering my question.” And with that the Copper King went back to his work. He pulled out the file box and set it on the desk looking through it. Running though all the names thank the Vigil they were all in order and all of the files were there. When he finally got to the end he saw three other files in the box. 

The first one was unreliable with its scratch out ink. All the Copper King could see were the faint words of DECEASED. He put that one back in the box quickly. 

The second one was easier to read. It said on it in big bold letters: SLAYER. The Copper King had never seen this file. He flipped it open. And read

 GENDER- FEMALE, 

HAIR COLOR- RED, 

AGE- UNKNOWN THOUGHT TO BE CLOSE WITH THE CLEANING LADY, 

EYE COLOR- GREEN,

WOOD ELF 

TIER- A

 POWERS-UNKNOWN 

NAME- UNKNOWN

STATUS- NOT ACTIVE FOR REASON UNKNOWN     

DO NOT ENGAGE IN COMBAT IF NOT WITH MORE THAN 5 OTHER EMPERORS. 

IN A GROUP CALLED THE SOUP GROUP AND LIKES TO HANG OUT WITH BOATEM. SOUP GROUP INCLUDES SV AND THE CLEANING LADY

MORE ON SOUP GROUP AND BOATEM LOOK AT SV’s FILE.

The Copper King frowned, having way more questions now than when he got in here. He had faint memories of a villain being a really good fighter. They fought that Hermit a good bit; it must have been Slayer, so why didn’t they have more on her? The Copper King put the file back and made a mental note to check SV’s file later and to find out who this ‘Cleaning Lady’ character was.

So he went and picked up the last one. It said in big bold letters: THE CLEANING LADY. He opened the file with interest. It was the same format as Slayer’s.

GENDER-FEMALE

HAIR COLOR-LIGHT BROWN

AGE-UNKNOWN THOUGHT TO BE CLOSE WITH SLAYER

EYE COLOR- BLUE, SOME HAVE REPORTED THAT HER EYES ARE A GOLDEN COLOR.

AVIAN

TIER-A

 POWERS- CAN MANIPULATE MATTER 

NAME-UNKNOWN

STATUS- NOT ACTIVE FOR UNKNOWN REASON 

 IN A GROUP CALLED THE SOUP GROUP AND BOATEM. SOUP GROUP INCLUDES SV AND SLAYER. BOATEM INCLUDES SV, POULTRY MAN, MINNER, AND HOT GUY 

MORE ON SOUP GROUP AND BOATEM LOOK AT SV’s FILE.

How does this Cleaning Lady manipulate matter? The Copper King thought to himself. It would probably be in attacks. The Copper King looked at his watch. It was 4 pm and he was going to meet with the rest of the Recap team at 6. 

The Copper King pulled himself up from the chair and put the files back into place and opened the archive door. He walked down that same hallway to one of the bigger hallways and through a door which closed behind him. The Codfather was carrying a basket of arrows. He was looking down and seemed to be on a call with someone, he hung up. Now the Copper King was not ready for someone to be walking through the hallway and so the Codfather ran into the Copper King and with a yelp of the Codfather both fell down arrows flying everywhere.

“I’m so sorry, Pix.” The Codfather said getting up and picking up the arrows.

“No it’s alright. I didn’t expect anyone to be here.” The Copper King replied. They both laughed as the Copper King helped the Codfather to his feet. And they walked in silence to the main room of Mangroivia. Where they saw most if not all the emperors sitting chatting. The two men got a chorus of hello’s and hi’s from everyone. The Copper King pulled the Farmer Queen, the Grand Wizard, and the Count aside to ask about the files he found. 

“So I found these files in the archives. It didn’t bring them out here but tomorrow or later tonight we can take a look at them. But before do any of you three know who or what the Cleaning Lady and Slayer were?” 

“We fought with them a couple times. They always moved so in sync. The Cleaning Lady making platforms for Slayer. When the platforms came down alien like plants would still be on the ground” The Count replied his hand was scratching his red beard.

“I have never fought any of them nor have I seen them around.” The Grand Wizard said. “But I can do some research into them.” She looked at the Farmer Queen, who looked as if she remembered something fondly.

“I have fought Slayer before. That was fun, she has a whole different fighting style than the rest of the Hermits!” 

“Interesting.” The Copper King was thinking about this when he got a text from Zloy. 

‘Are you ready for dinner?’ It read.

The Copper King smiled and texted back. ‘Yep almost I’ll meet you two at House Blossom.’ He smiled and waved to his fellow emperors then exited the building. When he was at the Vigil, he took off his sandy color robes and put on his blue sweater. He set his crown and trident down. 

Pix ran up the stairs grabbing his notebook and pencil from his office before heading across the street and then down one. He smiled as he saw his zombie and fox hybrid friends. Lyarrah was jumping up and down waving.

“Come on Pix!” She yelled as he got closer.

“Hello Lyarrah.” Pix managed to get out as Lyarrah hugged him. When she released him: Pix turned to Zlop and gave the zombie a hug. The three entered the cafe and sat down and looked over the menu. 

Pix waved to Kathrine who waved back as her and Shrub were running around getting things done. The three reporters had been sitting down for only a couple minutes when they saw the Codfather slam against the glass covered in chicken eggs. 

Pix sighed and put his head in his hands. 

[toujokaname]

Card shuffle / Episode 5

Author: Akira

Characters: Kohaku, Niki, HiMERU, Hiiro

"This 'Matrix' is just a waste of a project that boasts an impressive facade yet remains hollow at its core."

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[ Read on my site for a better viewing experience using Ois~su ♪ ]

Season: Winter

Location: Café Cinnamon

Kohaku: Uh-huh, guess callin' it an end-of-year special program hits the nail on the head. With all the talented people wrapped up in the new year's developments, they're so busy that the leftover folks get the scraps.

Niki: *Munch munch munch* End-of-year specials always get ripped apart... Come to think of it, doesn't Rinne-kun always get on edge around the end of each year, too?

Kohaku: He's a surprisingly passionate man. Can't stand half-baked efforts, maybe?

HiMERU: Well, not all specials are so ostentatious.

However, this "Matrix" is just a waste of a project that boasts an impressive facade yet remains hollow at its core.

Kohaku: What a way of puttin' it...

HiMERU: There is a reason for HiMERU to say so.

The producer leading this project isn't held in high regard at ES.

Not gonna lie, it's an individual notorious as a LandmineP.

Niki: Uwah, HiMERU-kun used youthful language like "not gonna lie"~♪

HiMERU: Rather than youthful, you could call it anachronistic. Anyway, if ES is labeling it as a major event, the producer in charge should have a solid track record and skill.

Niki: Like Anzu-nee-san, maybe? She looks like an ordinary girl, but it surprised me to hear she's a very reputable and talented producer!

Kohaku: There's no way you didn't know that...

Niki: I've got her food preferences down pat!

Kohaku: Why can't ya put that enthusiasm into idol work?

HiMERU: Fufu. Well, you're right about that. Seems like Shiina's unusually understanding today.

If it's being touted as a major event, someone like Anzu-san should have been put in charge.

But in reality, Matrix is a landmine project with a low budget, a useless producer, and numerous unfavorable conditions.

Hiiro: Fumu, is it really that bad? That Matrix thing?

HiMERU: Yes. It's a textbook example of a hopeless project.

Matrix will take place over a month, during which Crazy:B and ALKALOID are supposed to have a total of ten matches—so it's said.

Despite the unnecessarily long time commitment, there are no specific dates or instructions mentioned in the plan.

Niki: Ah~ That's a problem, even I can see that... If I dunno in advance when it'll be busy, I can't adjust my part-time shifts.

HiMERU: Do you even need to work part-time at a restaurant anymore? Compared to the summer, we've been earning a reasonable amount of money through our idol activities, haven't we?

Niki: Being a chef's my main profession!

Kohaku: He says, eyes all sparkly...

Hiiro: Hehe. Actually, what HiMERU-san mentioned was on my mind too.

We're supposed to have ten matches, but what exactly does that entail?

If it involves physical combat, I might be in a bind. If Nii-san's skills haven't dulled, he'd still be stronger than me, and I don't want to hurt Aira and the others.

HiMERU: It seems unlikely that it will escalate to physical violence...

Niki: Why keep the details secret? Such a hassle!

Kohaku: Maybe it ain't set in stone yet, rather than bein' kept secret?

HiMERU: Yes. HiMERU shares this suspicion, as it tends to be the case with hopeless projects.

On paper, the plan looks grandiose, but in reality, its purpose is only to gain approval, devoid of any substance.

There's no preparation, no specific plans, absolutely nothing.

Niki: Is it like starting to chop veggies without even knowing what dish you're making?

HiMERU: Right. So you understand it by comparing it to cooking, Shiina. You can't make a good dish with such a haphazard approach, can you?

Niki: Well, even with that, I could whip up something decent~

HiMERU: A skilled chef like you could. However, it seems that this producer lacks such an ability. Sadly.

Kohaku: Still, if we're called upon, we can't refuse. That's the tough part of bein' newbies... Even if we spot a landmine right in front of us, we've got no choice but to walk that path.

Unpleasant stuff like that always seems to find its way to the most vulnerable.

[ ☆ ]

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[salon-maiden-anabel]

figuring out teams for characters who dont have canon teams/only partially full kinda fun sometimes .

I already have talked abt Argenta's team previously bc of CiaCM but im still sticking to my decisions . Meganium specifically is her old starter/possibly child of her original starter? still trying to decide. But Meganium is just such a Her pokemon to my brain in no way i could explain. Same with ninetales it just feels right. Dragonite from the tcg cards and Skarmory from pokemas. Apharos and Floarzel have less explanation else then the vibes just felt right for her

thorton bottom text. Most are from pokemas/one a reference to pokespe team. Rotom just Feels like a thorton 'mon and Cyclizar just feels right in my heart

Darach keeps his canon 5 + gains Haxorus as once again. Trust Me Bro.

Dahlia swaps out Medicham for Quaquaval ! It fits her dancing theme to a t as a fighting type more then Medicham. and also the more i can ignore medicham the better. Gourgeist and Dragapult reserves have just been smtn ive been thinking abt for a couple years now. Which accidentally means she has a lot of ghost types lol

Palmer doesn't change his team. lmao

for the hoenn brains i don't think most of them would shuffle their teams too much and stuff down the line but i do have Thoughts abt additional pkmn they'd have. Specifically how much Greta with a Zoroark would suck so severely it should be banned from the Battle Arena. which is exactly why she should have one. Same logic for Aegislash. "How would she have a Sneasler?" how do half these people have the legendaries they canonically have. Its free real estate.

Tucker's is mostly just following his trend of pokemon that would all later receive mega evolutions bc HOW did all his canon mon receive them. He's the reason the battle frontier didn't return /j

behold the worlds most unique Brandon team /j. Anyways all canon mon else then Gimmighoul which just FEELS like a brandon pokemno but specifically not a fighter. It just sits in his office and torments Samuel

Lucy is Lucy. Lucy has snakes. I imagine Serperior would run a contrary based set to rough up people unprepared. The entire second row are non-combat pokemon though! Arbok being an old pokemon from her youth who was already old when she caught him and is now a little too under the weather to battle all the time. Dunsparce. Typhlosion Mamoswine and Skitty are based off some of her anime-only housecats but i let the first two evolve over time! Skitty is a menace to society. Skitty will make everything Your issue. Lucy refuses to accept anyone trying to tell her that her Skitty is the worlds biggest problem causer skitty.

Noland. Running out of things to say. Gestures with my hands.

I have not added any new pokemon to Anabels list of pokemon. She just has so fucking many between sun/moon and the anime originals

However. That was Fallerbel. Mega-timeline/non eeby deebied Anabel gets a different team layout then her since their life experiences after a certain point are completely different

Spenser gets a Tangrowth bc that just feels right. Given its been a little over 10 years im not sure he works at the frontier anymore though that man is over 100 :sob:

I'm still to this day deciding who takes over the Battle Palace in his place [ive been thinking abt wally but am mortified of being accused of copying other people :sob: so i gotta think] But since Anabel gets deebied to megaverse theres a spot open in the Tower for a new Tower Tycoon so. Slaps oc that needs to be redesigned so badly in here, Dia. She's Perrin's cousin but i created her before Perrin existed :sob: so feeling meh on her design. Anyways.

[sincerely-sofie]

still cant get over travailshipping. i remember when you first tested the waters with it (which i believe was some time before the tpiag chapters started coming out?) and at first i thought it was pretty funny. ark slowly but surely falling headfirst for twig, who if she had a tagline it would be "if i could turn my feelings into weapons, mine would be a goddamn nuclear bomb", and her at first just being oblivious to it and thinking that the letters that expressed love and care that were written in cursive in her mailbox were just funny and she wanted to show them to ark with the guy just looking at her with the most "well that backfired in the weirdest way possible". but when tpiag finally ended i finally connected the dots as to why these two are just. augh. i wont go into detail here in your askbox but i wanna know is: HOW DID YOU DO IT. HOW DO YOU KEEP MAKING SUCH GOOD IDEAS FOR THE FUNNY DIGITAL ANIMALS. TELL ME.

(thinking to myself) "Ugh I should stop posting so much travailshipping stuff... It's probably so annoying to everyone who sees it. I feel bad for my poor followers. I'll check my inbox real quick and then commit to shaking up my content by—" *gets obliterated by your niceness*

Oh man. I remember posting that poll where I hesitantly described a possible Darkrai/Twig pairing in the tags while proposing Twig/Kip as an alternative route, despite it not being the direction I wanted to take the characters, because I was so scared of what people’s reactions might be. If I remember right, I posted it a little bit before I had just barely reached 5k words in the first draft of TPiaG.

I've been trying to write up detailed responses to how I come up with good ideas for travailshipping in particular, but there's one rule I use that defines everything after it and speaks for all of them: I have fun with the characters.

That's it. That's the rule. If I don't want to write a subject, I don't. I stick with what I find enjoyable and resonant. Does a joke make me laugh? Does a scene make me cry? Does a villain make me punch a hole in my wall? Does a cute gesture make me squeal? If so, then into the project it goes. I think people can feel when someone is having fun with their work, and that fun radiates out into their own experience consuming that work. It's like laughter— joy is something we're sharing with others as long as we feel it. Fun is contagious.

Also: when you don't force yourself to make things you hate, you attract people who like the same things as you. These people will find your work even more fun— because not only did you have fun making it, they're having double fun consuming it.

An important tangent I'll go off on is that I think that every creative project idea is a good idea. There's so many beloved bizarro ideas in the world, even the ones who try to be cool about how weird their premises are. There's this weird show where the main character works as a service industry worker in an underwater setting that's ruled by a Roman deity— he lives in a piece of fruit, and his pet gastropod makes cat noises. This show sounds like word salad garbage on paper and could be tossed out for its nonsensical nature, and yet SpongeBob SquarePants has made Nickelodeon over $13 billion dollars and is a treasured part of many childhoods. There's also a character who spends his time locked in intellectual and physical combat with a wannabe clown and wears a costume with bat ears while doing it. Batman's been an icon for over 80 years.

All of this is to say:

Ideas are always good ideas by virtue of existing. They don't derive their goodness from external sources. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Make more of what you love. Don't make things you hate making.

If you have fun while making the thing, people will have fun while they consume the thing's content.

I hope this makes sense. I didn't touch on idea generation as much as embracing existing ideas. Fingers crossed that was the right response. I'd just woken up from a nap as I was writing it, so hopefully it's not too meandering and managed to answer the question and—

— Oh shoot. Was that a hypothetical question??? Uh. Sorry if I went off on this rant when you were just trying to voice your niceness. Oops. 🫥

[styrmwb]

I beat Yakuza 3 Remastered

Why can't this poor man have a happy life

I've had the itch to pick up a Yakuza (a LaD) again for a minute now, and I think the announcement of Pirate Majima finally kicked me into gear.

It's been like... 3 years? Since I played Kiwami 2, which I actually think was a good thing for this game. Rather than going from modern Yakuza immediately into old, still growing Yakuza, and feeling that whiplash, I feel like I got to have a pretty fresh experience with this guy, and kinda judge it on its own merits rather than comparing it to the great remakes before it/the Objective Superiority that is 0 (I feel like this isn't a terribly hot take)

I've seen the comments people leave, the rumors, people fuckin hate this game; so it was good to finally get my own feelings on it (and now this is the part where I say those feelings)

Chapter 1: Gameplay 第1章：ゲームプレイ

The Big Controversial Part. The Evil.

To start on a positive, more general note; this is Yakuza. You Cannot Go Wrong With The Formula. It's a completionist's dream/worst nightmare, it's perfect for whatever tone you want, it's tried and true. This is the 3rd time they have done it and they are becoming exceedingly efficient at it. If I didn't like the baseline of this series I wouldn't be at the 3rd entry. I love doing fight, eating food, filling up the numbers on the completion, it's fun, it makes my monkey brain happy. I love being in the same city I've always been in and seeing how it's changed this time around, as well as what hasn't changed. It's such a unique feeling that I don't think other games have.

Coming from the previous entries, I wasn't used to random battles having dialogue instead of a smooth transition; I was iffy at first, but honestly the rewards having silly adjectives won me over and I was entertained until the end (I don't even want to know why this ¥50,000 is lukewarm). I also actually really liked the running sequences. It took some getting used to for the rhythm of dodging around pedestrians, but once I got the hang of it I actually looked forward to them. I do wish Mack's training came earlier, though, and also came with more diverse benefits other than More Stamina and Strong Tackle.

Minigaaaaaames. As with every entry in this series, they are wide and diverse; some I love, some I despise. My favorites ended up being Karaoke (this is every game though, and I love rhythm games this is no surprise), Koi-Koi (a love I've obtained from previous games), Darts, surprisingly enough (once I figured out The Strat I cleaned house), and Bowling (another classic, figure out The Strat). Least favorites were Fishing (I generally don't like fishing in games though), and that God Damn Batting Center. I HATE the batting center I swear I just could not get that timing right. I also don't like mahjong but I knew that from previous games so I didn't touch it. One day I'll learn but not today. Aroma Massage was frustrating but I didn't need to do it much so it gets a pass (also the baby failure was fuckin FUNNY), and Boxcelios was actually pretty neat but it didn't wow me. Also getting put here is the Hostess Maker; I respect it for being the start of good minigames later, I do not care for it, and I swear I had constant garbo luck.

Alright, now the main part. Combat. I think from the start, I was aware of "Blockuza 3"; and I'm not sure if having that awareness affects my bias of analyzing it at all. Like I said, it's been 3 years since I last played a Yakuza game, so I don't.... really remember the general combat flow of those? I remember bosses have always been a bit frustrating. Start of the game was fine. I didn't have issues, and I felt like I was using grabs, weapons, and heat actions a lot more than I remember doing in the past (I also think me thinking of heat action completion more helped this). I vibed with it for a good while! No issues. Bosses took a little bit, but they always did. However, once I hit late game, especially when I was doing the coliseum, I understood. There's an issue here.

To be blunt, the AI sucks. EVERYTHING ELSE is fine, the AI sucks. There are two things here. Everyone knows the blocks; they're all the time. So ok, I'm gonna work around it. I'm gonna go for grabs, I'm going to tiger drop to negate all damage. I'm going to use the counter mechanics it's given me cause I can't quite get in otherwise. This would be ideal, if the AI did anything. The most egregious example of this, and the summarization of my point, is the final training with Komaki. I need to parry his attack, and then use ultimate dragon king essence. Awesome! ...why isn't he attacking? He's just... dodging. And looking at me. He doesn't do anything until I throw a punch in his direction, which then he freaks out and kicks my ass. How am I supposed to parry him if he doesn't attack? How am I supposed to get around the invincible walls if they won't interact with me? How is tiger drop supposed to negate all damage if there's no damage!?!?! There's workarounds of course. I learned some good rhythms, I figured out the combos that could get in, and When I had weapons they were useful, but those have durability and I can't rely on them forever.

There is a clear problem here, but I do think it is only apparent on the higher level play of the game. Generally, for the most part, I had a perfectly fine time, and I got to do that one scene from Avengers where Hulk throws Loki back and forth and it worked so frequently it was hilarious. I can imagine if I played above normal, I would be more upset (But I didn't cause I'm not looking for a punishing experience and I'm cool with that!).

One last thing, super minor; I definitely prefer the later games' leveling. They give you more stuff more often, where here my leveling really started to slow down giving me less things which made me sad. It's not huge but it's there.

Chapter 2: Story 第2章：物語

This is the REAL treasure of this game. I Love This Story. Kiryu Dad Simulator is the greatest thing ever. How do you make the Father Fantasy even better? By adding several more children, and giving you time with each and every one, letting you love, and appreciate them, so that way you care for this orphanage in the same way that Kiryu does. Honestly if I just left Kamurocho for Okinawa and there was no crime the entire time and it was just take care of your foster children I would be so so so so ok with that.

Anyways, there's two major reasons why I enjoyed this game's story so much more than the rest. 1. The characters were all great, and 2. I think it felt a little more cohesive than some of the previous entries.

Substory 120: Characters

Kiryu - I really felt for the man here. This is a man who has been dragged into bullshit for far too long now, and finally literally got to run away, and spend time doing something fulfilling, only for him to be dragged right back in yet again. You could really tell how much he cared for everyone around him in this game, which only served to make his self-sacrificial nature worse. It makes me think of The Incredibles: "I'm not strong enough to lose you". I love this man, give him a break.

Haruka - Not a forefront, but one of the best parts of this series so far is seeing Haruka grow; and this game really gave her a huge leap. Putting her in that big sister role was such a good play. I can almost see the Kiryu in her here, the caring for others, with that little bit of stupid self-sacrificing for others being shown in her section with the credit card running.

The Morning Glory Orphans - My children. This game introduced 8 new characters, and (like I mentioned above), through giving you time with each of them, their own dedicated stories as well as their times in the others'; I love them! They did such a good job portraying them all as kids, but also as a family. Taichi was my favorite. This big ol big brother type with a big heart.

Rikiya - MY BRO. MY ANIKI. I LOVE THIS DUDE, I LOVE HOW HE LOVES HIS HOME AND HIS FAMILY. He was such a fun character and I think Kiryu having a brother character is highly needed, something he really hasn't had since (in-universe, not irl) 0. I could feel his fate coming from a mile away, but it didn't make it hurt less. You fucking dumbass you should have just STAYED BEHIND AAAAGH

Mikio - Another bro character; a younger type compared to Rikiya, but still someone I cared about. This dude is full of love, and for a criminal, someone that I would trust around children.

Nakahara - Grandpa. Yeah I know dad/brother is more accurate, but he's old so grandpa. I like him and I loved how him being a positive influence (again, Despite Being A Criminal) spreads to his whole family clearly being beloved in Okinawa (DESPITE BEING CRIMINALS). I'm so glad him and Saki get to be a happy family by the end. (I'm not gonna give Saki a full section but that poor girl went through so much unnecessary pain and she gained a whole family by the end of the game, she deserves the world)

Majima - I think this is where Majima really started to become Friend. He got back into the game for Kiryu, he was loyal and doing what he promised to the end, and he was a great support. I loved the truck scene, and his genuine concern for Kiryu.

Daigo - My favorite princess. He was literally the damsel in distress this game, but his impact is something I appreciated. You can tell that this is a decent man, and even though he's in power, treats those below him as equals. His good character was literally part of the reason of why the final boss was so interesting.

Kashiwagi - :( A very similar role to Daigo, where his character, rather than his actions, set his role in the game. A decent man, setting a good, honest foundation inside of a criminal empire. The fact that he set up an organization to get people safely out of the business was huge, and I'm gonna miss Kiryu's big brother.

Tamiya - I'm going to steal a joke from the other game set in Japan that I beat in 2024: You can tell this is a fictional game because there is an actually decent politician. I actually felt surprised that the angry dude pushing for the military base was like, the best person involved in everything.

Mine - Such an interesting character. A very very hurt man that never learned how to love, finally finding A Purpose, but throwing it away out of pain. I really liked him as an antagonist, and I loved that he wasn't the traitor, that he wasn't some Secret I Planned Everything For Power; he just happened into place. A series of unfortunate events put Mine where he ended up, and I found that really cool.

Joji - He's a bit of an asspull, but not one that ruins anything. Like yeah "character has a secret twin" is some comic book shit, but I actually enjoyed his presence here. He gave an interesting mystery to the story, and became a good support towards the end.

Andre - He's definitely the most... Nothing, in the story, but I didn't hate him. I thought his voice acting was surprisingly decent (hearing that constant SHITTO... in the coliseum didn't give me high hopes). I think every Yakuza needs to have that weird side villain that's the main cause of everything, but this dude didn't feel as disruptive as Jingo, or as insane as the Korean Mafia. He's fine!

Hamazaki - I Genuinely think, that presenting this huge threat with connections out of country, but then having you not even fight him, and having him offed by his own hubris, was SUCH a neat play. Absolutely a twist that I did not expect. He might have seemed as wasted potential, but I kinda really liked how he ended up being off-screened.... and then.... then you bring him back? You bring him back for... a final cutscene... that doesn't mean... anything. A guy that should be dead.... stabs the main character, who ends up being perfectly fine. This dude is like... the one cause, of the one problem, I had with this story. Why couldn't he just stay in the ocean

Kanda - He sucks hard which is good cause I get to beat him up and I don't feel bad about him being a head, you love a character that's easy to hate.

Tamashiro - Absolute scum of the earth, that dude deserved a bullet in his head. I hate you I hate you I HATE you.

I feel like whenever I write a characters section it doubles the length of my already long post, but again, they are such a huge reason of why I loved this story.

As for the cohesiveness, I think the little point I made with Andre is a good summary. Previous entries have had this like, last minute What The Fuck plot twist nonsense that completely go wild and kinda tie together all the plot points. But in 3, I didn't feel that What The Fuck. I got it. I think the Okinawa land, the opposing bills of Resort vs Military Base, the involvement of the CIA, Black Monday, and the Yakuza, as well as the inner turmoil of the Tojo Clan; I honestly think it all tied together pretty smoothly. Andre was just the strangest part of it but he was so nothing compared to the rest that I literally don't care. (I Am Trying My Best To Ignore That Second To Last Cutscene)

I think overall, the general theme I got from this game was love. I felt the Essence of Love (press Heavy Attack at Blue Heat near Family) infused through nearly every part of this game. In Okinawa, with the Orphanage, with the Ryudo Family. In Kamurocho, with Daigo, with Mine, with Joji. Even in some of the substories, they generally felt... kinder? than usual? Like maybe I'm crazy for that, but there wasn't a lot of mean spirited things in the game I don't think. Hell, there was a whole sidequest that literally said trans rights lmfao. It all made me very happy.

Chapter 3: Aesthetics 第3章：美学

I've seen some criticisms on how this game looks (like one time when I was trying to google something one of the suggested was literally "why does yakuza 3 look bad"), but honestly, I kinda like it. It's absolutely the start of what modern LaD looks like, with a bit of that PS3 edge (and I mean that literally, bit of polygonal action). I think the best looking area is Morning Glory Beach, I love the water, the sands, and the greenery there. Music is classic Yakuza, there's not much to say beyond it's good, but doesn't always have tracks that stick out to me (there are some; Fly, Dead Run, and Another Demiworld I think are the standouts (also D2A lmfao)).

Chapter 4: Similar, But Not Equal To, A Dragon (aka the rest of my thoughts and the finale) 第4章：似て非なるもの、ドラゴン（感想の続きとフィナーレ）

Yakuza is usually beloved and infamous for its tonal dissonance. My favorite quote I saw once was "Yakuza is a serious crime drama occasionally interrupted by an episode of The Simpsons". I think 3, for the most part, felt a little bit more on the serious or genuine end. But from my research (light googling) on what the original 1 and 2 were like, 3 is the start of what we know now, what eventually turns into 0. Karaoke is getting its ridiculous start, we have revelations giving us more over the top comedy. But I think the balance it gives is something I appreciated. The serious parts had a genuine feeling to them that really grabbed me, but I still got my silly fix.

It's such a shame that this game has that stench of combat attached to it, cause it really was a good experience. I think it's overhated, and especially because you'll naturally play it after more modern games doesn't help.

While I could absolutely feel The Inevitable Yakuza Burnout towards the end, I still think I'm gonna look back at 3 positively.

8/10. Amazing story and characters in a genuinely heartfelt wrapping, just with kinda clunky gameplay. Fix that AI and my major issues are solved.

also like wasn't it super fucked that Sayama became a love interest for Kiryu, but then just fucking dipped and went to go date an American dude in the side text

[chromantlks]

Workin on art at 5:30am and watching Vendetta, so to procrastinate even longer, here is:

Resident Evil Vendetta: Why Leon and Rebecca’s Positions Should Have Been Swapped

• Rebecca is not a damsel in distress please stop doing this to RE women (female characters in general, hate to be that guy), let Rebecca be the prodigious badass tyrant slayer she has been since day fucking one

• Leon’s entire arc would be improved in the way Chris’ sort of was if he was kidnapped and had time to think about who he is and why he’s come as far as he has, as well as accepting that he can’t always be the dashing hero and that sometimes he needs help too

• We could FINALLY re-explore the dynamic between Chris and Rebecca!! Don’t get me wrong, I love the relationship between Chris and Leon I love the part where they said “it’s gay sex Thursday” and then started making out on the chopper, but cmon. These were the ORIGINAL guys, the goobers, the oomfies, they were partners then and they could have been again

• We might have had more of a chance to catch up with what Rebecca has been doing all this time, we haven’t seen her since 0, or the stage play if you’re insane like I am, and I feel like we deserved to see her in action. It’s totally in line with her character to take more of a backseat to the action, having more of an interest in the science and medical aspects, that’s all good, but she’s still trained in combat and marksmanship. Can you imagine a scene of Rebecca showing off her skills, especially to Leon? Dude that would rock so unbelievably hard cmon.

• Chris has this continued theme in his life of losing people close to him and it reflects in the way he treats his partners/teams. This is just a flaw with the movie in general (which I continue to enjoy despite its. Yknow. Everything~), but we never got to see much of that. Obviously that whole theme was generally resolved in 5 and then continued into 6, but I feel like whether it’s Leon or Rebecca, Chris should have been, like. Way more freaked about it? Staying professional and all, but Jesus Christ man, you’re gonna exchange one liners and cool gun slow-no scenes with MCR over here in the hallway while you have less than 20 minutes to both SAVE and CURE someone who has been by your side for upwards of 20 years whom you have befriended and relied on numerous times??? Whatever! Whatever!

• Arias should have had a MUCH higher interest in obtaining Leon if he wanted his revenge plan work out. He’s already a suuuuper iffy character, I too would be mad if the government dropped a bomb on my wedding and killed almost everyone I held dear, but also I didn’t do arms dealing and bioterrorism so. Maybe reflect on that man. But anyway, the A-Virus already has a lot in common with the Plaga. Arias ABSOLUTELY could improve this connection via a sample of Leon’s blood and an examination of whatever’s left in his nervous system; if done right, this could have handled the virus nearly unstoppable. But instead, he opted to, uh…steal a woman that looks like his wife? Yeah, her blood with the antibodies made the virus stronger, but he had NO IDEA OF THAT. He totally lucked out there. Now, information about the Plaga would be easily attainable for a man of Arias’ profession and status among the underworld of crime or whatever, all that shit, and Leon’s name would absolutely be among that information. It’s just so much more convenient? Makes so much more sense?? Literally aids his evil plan???

I’m sure there’s more reasons I’m forgetting because the amount of times I’ve ranted about this is ridiculous, but like. Cmon cmon cmon I beg

If someone makes art or like rewrites the story like this tag me in it I beg of you like idk if this will incite any inspiration this is just my special weird take on a my special weird movie

[mdhwrites]

Why Do I Keep Trying Gacha Games?

I'm mostly looking for something ongoing to be invested in. My disability causes my days to be LONG and having something that even takes up fifteen minutes of them is nice. It's something I've appreciated about Star Rail during a time when my brain won't let me stay invested in ANY video games it feels like. It's something reliable that I can be excited for, can discuss and be passionate about.

It's not that it needs to be gacha even. I've tried Marvel Rivals, wasn't for me, not at the moment I feel, but gacha is kind of the BIG name right now in such titles for genres I like. I'm not someone who does shooters after all but a potentially Spider-Man influenced game like Ananta? Yeah, no, that is way more up my alley. I haven't seen Madoka but it has a turn based game coming out next year supposedly with mechanics like Star Rail's and I LOVE turn based stuff so yeah, I'll almost certainly check it out.

Of course, all of this is easier said than done. Genshin's combat turned me away from it four years ago. Zenless Zone Zero has combat I ADORE but writing that is INFURIATING. Just to linger for a second: The best way I can describe my core problem with ZZZ's writing is that they are making correct choices for what they're going for but that they're correct, not good or compelling. Speaking of not compelling: Hello Girls Frontline 2. I played a few hours of it on launch and found it to be fine. Like the definition of fine. Still better than the proper noun salad that was Ash Echoes before finding out that my character belongs to a corporation that doesn't care about having displaced thousands of people from their homes, even if not technically by their fault, which is YIKES. And Infinity Nikke has the core problem of I am function over fashion in most games. A dress up gacha just isn't for me and its writing in its opening is... Well, very functional. Not even bad, just extremely bland and lacking much in the way of character so it could get across its concepts clearly.

So yeah, I will keep looking but I also still argue that part of why HSR is dominating a market that by all means should have been hard to win over, turn based gacha is nothing new, is because it's a game that is good that happens to be a gacha. In fact, not just good but FUCKING GREAT. Like I recently finally finished base Persona 5 and had to go "Oooooh. So Hoyo looked at this final boss, went "What if we tried this theme but not dog shit?" and then made Penacony. Cool." Its combat and team building is way more engaging to me than most turn based RPGs, to the point where I have an old blog gushing about what makes it break the mold compared to your Personas, Pokemons and Dragon Quests. Like I imagine the way I talk about Star Rail sounds akin to how FF 14 people talk about that game where the money spent each month keeping up with the game is more than worth it because it's just blowing everything around it out of the water.

And, well, for my hopes, that's a pretty rough place to start but hey, maybe I'll manage to find something eventually. Also, I would ask for recommendations but I refuse to try things like Arknights because knowing I've missed five years of content, goodies, etc. like that makes my brain scream in terrible ways. sigh I hope you all are taking care of yourselves though and see you next tale. I just wanted to share a ramble.

[ripp3dh3art]

The Villain Arc. - Ch.1 Inevitable Encounter.

"Sorry ma'am but we still haven't had any update on your hero course application." The receptionist said to me not even bothering to face me. As she continued to fill out some paperwork she was doing before I came in. This is the 5th time this month I've come to check on the status of the application. I walked out of the office building into the empty ally nearby. I pressed my back onto the cold concrete wall as I slid down and buried my face into my knees. This is so stupid I've been waiting for the past few months and still nothing no update or anything. Maybe a little reassurance would help even a little bit. Oh, who am I kidding I'm just giving myself false hope.

"It's dangerous for you to be around here alone," a raspy low voice trailed off followed by a flickering sound. The man walked over towards me his beaten-up shoes now being in my peripheral vision. I could see that he stood in front of me as I looked up just to be greeted by an ominous figure that could easily tower over me at any given moment making me feel a bit vulnerable. But instead, he crouched down to my level as I still was sitting down on the ground, he held a cigarette between his lips inhaling it as he blew the white clouds of smoke away from me. What is he doing? I couldn't put a face to the voice his hood shadowed his features making him unrecognizable. I froze still not knowing what to do. It's not like I can do anything since I'm still trying to learn more about my ability, I can't control it hence why I can't even defend myself.

"Hey R-." A harsher voice echoed through the ally as it came from behind the hooded man. This other person was trying to steal a glance before speaking up. "Who the hell is she?" he said trying to step closer before the hooded man pushed him by his legs with his arms. "I don't know but she isn't a threat to us at all. Let's hurry up and leave," he spoke once more before standing up towering over the guy that was walking towards us a few seconds ago. Who the hell are these guys and what are they up to? Should I try stopping them? No that can get me killed. I mean if they are criminals. "Yeah, sure let's go I got what we needed." The hooded man's friend said walking away and waving the files from his hands almost flaunting it. "See you around. Also, small tip don't let these heroes push you around." the ominous guy said chuckling before putting out his cigarette using the wall and flicking it to the side. Just like that In a blink of an eye, I lost sight of them.

"Hey Ilia I finally found you! Guess what!" My childhood friend Tora said as she ran towards me once she spotted me from the end of the empty ally. "What's wrong Ilis looks like you've seen a ghost or something" Rin chimed in as her heels clicked behind Tora’s short frame. I adored yet envied Rin she was already a S-Rank hero by the time we finished the academy. It has always been Tora and I since the day we discovered our abilities in grade school. After a few years when we began the academy, Tora introduced me to Rin since she was the new transferee. Rin was also known as 'Koa' which we call her by when she's in her disguise she has such an amazing ability called Desires which made her able to send someone into a physical illusion of their biggest desires if she gets near enough making them go in total shock. On the other hand, Tora had a support ability called Internal Restoration. Anything she holds onto fully restores to its original state but if she holds on too long it can cause Internal pain.

Then there's mine I've always gotten poked fun at for having a more 'different' ability called Bloodthirst which I have no control whatsoever hence why I want to take the college hero course since the S-Rank heroes help out with lessons. I do know that Bloodthirst physically makes me stronger and gives me more resistance during combat but that's all I've been told of.

"Earth to Ilia?" Tora sang as she nudged on my shoulder. "Sorry I kind of zoned out there for a moment" I mumbled before standing up and dusting off my pants. "Lightened up because we have big news! I was able to pull some strings for your application and got you a spot in the hero course! I know how much it means to you. Thank me later" Koa smiled clapping her hands together as Tora jumped onto my back. " I love you guys so much what would I do without you. I’ll be one step closer to becoming a hero. To celebrate we should go out for dinner my treat!" I jumped pulling all three of us into a warm group hug.

It's been a few hours since Tora and Koa told me the news and since the incident happened yet it keeps replaying in my head. "It's dangerous for you to be around here alone." His scent was almost luring he smelt so soft yet sweet but the cigarette he had drowned it out. His aura was deceiving in a way that it gave me this unsettling feeling. While the other guy I was able to get a glimpse of him he had dirty blonde hair that was tied half up and grey eyes that even looked dead in a way yet he covered his lower face with a file until he turned around and walked away.

What did he even mean by "Don't let these heroes push you around?" Whatever maybe I'm just overthinking this whole thing. I lifted myself off the couch deciding to wash my face with ice cold water to snap me out of this train of thought.

But I can't help but think who were they and what were they doing? So many questions running through my head.

Who was he?

Tw: Emotional Abuse, Violence, Self Destruction, Drugs, Vulgar Language, Hostage Situation.

[itsuki-minamy]

"K - RETURN OF KINGS" (Novel)

CHAPTER 9: NEKO'S DREAM (Part 3)

* List of Chapters

Translation: Naru-kun Raws: Ridia

"What are you going to do?"

Actually, no such voice was heard.

However, the gazes that were directed from everywhere said so. Curiosity, animosity. The reason why they were so obvious was not because Kuro's senses were particularly good, but because the people looking at him didn't know how to hide their feelings.

"You can't be stupid!"

"Photos, photos. Even information alone will earn you points!"

He took a deep breath.

It wasn't even a problem and he didn't attack. He could have thrown it away, but he didn't like to take advantage of a reluctant enemy. "Jungle" is definitely his enemy. He doesn't know what to do with the photos, but he can't let them serve as a "mission."

His body submerged for a moment and Kuro jumped high.

From railings to streetlights, kicking over traffic lights and signs, moving in a zigzag trajectory. It was a very slight distraction that a normal psychic could detect, but there was a scream from behind.

"Ah, he ran away!"

"Damn, I couldn't take a photo!"

After all, "Jungle" is that kind of group of people.

Humans who can't even be called psychic to the extent that ordinary people have grown hair. He can't even fight a decent battle, and if he ever gets into that kind of situation, he'll run away as fast as he can. Originally, they were not Kuro's enemies.

He thinks that's why it's so troublesome.

They are not combatants. These are the countless eyes and ears of "Jungle". There's no point in destroying it, but if you leave it alone, it will deal damage. Kuro couldn't even imagine how Hisui Nagare, the core and brain of "Jungle", would handle the information he received from his eyes and ears.

This is happening more and more every day. Neither "Scepter 4" nor "Homura" were able to capture "Jungle". It's only natural that there hasn't been any movement since the decisive battle a month ago...

At that moment, an explosion sounded nearby.

Kuro took a deep breath and immediately went into a fighting stance. While he was holding a shopping bag, he placed his hand on the sword at his waist. In front of his gaze was a man with an unearthly light that seemed to have caused the explosion.

But...

"Oh, it's not me!"

The man was completely confused. Pushed by the surrounding gazes, he took a few steps back and put his hand on the fire hydrant. Then, the red light shining on his hand moved towards the fire hydrant, and in the next instant, the fire hydrant exploded, spraying a large amount of water.

"Kyaaaa!"

A passing woman reached out her hand to block the fall of water. And this time, a blue light inhabited her hand, creating a distorted shield. The shield barely repelled the water, but its distorted shape spread the water over a wider area, drenching even more people.

"Wow?! What the hell is this?!"

"Ah, that guy! He's a psychic!"

Anxiety and fear created chaos that spread like an epidemic. It was as if he could see it in Kuro's eyes.

"What?!"

With the shopping bags still in hand, Kuro ran outside to clear up the confusion. There is no way that they, who until just now were ordinary people, knew how to calm down and control their supernatural powers.

Cursing Hisui Nagare in his heart, wondering if that was his purpose to unnecessarily sow confusion, Kuro extended his hand towards the people who had become makeshift Strains.

Overhead, the announcer from the street television was announcing with a serious expression.

"Next is the news about the incidents involving supernatural powers that are rapidly increasing across the country!"

++++++++++

"Since the beginning of the year, the Cabinet has introduced a special emergency bill for countermeasures at the national administrative level in response to incidents involving singular abilities that have been occurring frequently throughout the Kanto region."

Underground temple, "Secret Base".

Hisui Nagare continued his work while listening to the voices of the news echoing through the six mat room.

In the same room, the executives of "Jungle" met. Sukuna was enjoying the game as always and Mishakuji was doing strange poses one after another on the yoga mat. And Iwafune was slowly drinking beer while he was watching the news on TV.

"Oh, the "Slate" test is going well, isn't it? Old Kokujoji's information control doesn't work anymore."

"Yes, everything is going well!"

Nagare stopped working and looked at Iwafune.

"Yes, the number of people receiving special powers from the "Dresden Slate" is increasing. It's working well."

Mishakuji muttered in ecstasy as he moved into the "pigeon pose" on the mat.

"Fufufu. A new age is coming where everyone will shine with their own individuality. A chaotic jungle age full of life. A paradise for the fittest."

"Paradise. Isn't that what people call "hell"?"

Iwafune laughed as he said that, but Nagare didn't let it slip that there was a cold, hollow feeling in his voice.

Iwafune is his ally. There is no doubt about that. However, if he were to ask if Iwafune affirmed everything Nagare wanted in the world, it would not.

Sukuna, who was still lying down, shot teasing words at him.

"Hm, what's wrong? Are you scared old man?"

"Old man, old man! You coward!"

Iwafune didn't resist and shrugged slightly.

"Not that I have any complaints. The hell I can see is a little better than the hell I can't see. That's my choice."

Iwafune lied and started drinking beer again, while Nagare operated the device in his wheelchair. A window appeared in the air behind him and a real-time image of the "Slate" was displayed.

"Currently, about 40% of the unlocking of the "Slate" has progressed. As a result, the people who become Strains are constantly increasing. There are probably some who have managed to control their powers and are cleverly hiding their supernatural powers, so that the actual number is much higher than the data. It doesn't seem to be directly proportional to the progress of the opening and the awakening of the supernatural powers."

Added various screens to the "Slate" of the video. Display of seals, mostly gold and some blue.

"The special protection that the "Golden King" had over the "Slate was about to be released naturally. The "Blue King" reinforced that. As expected, he governs the "order" and precisely separates the supernatural powers surrounding the "Slate". But that will soon be fixed."

"If that happens, all 7 billion humans will become kings."

Nagare nodded to Mishakuji, who smiled in "bow stance".

"Affirmative. In order to make the arrival of the next era faster and safer, we have also issued a series of special missions for "Jungle" players."

The image in the window changed and an electronic map of Tokyo was displayed. The "Jungle" seal, which indicates the mission in progress, continues to move slowly.

After hearing about the mission, Sukuna stood up. He looked at the map skeptically and muttered to himself.

"Is that the "starter plan"?"

"Capture and scout newborn Strains, monitor and restrain other clans, and lay the groundwork for our future movements."

"Hmph, don't bother."

The reason why Sukuna pouted was probably because he wasn't involved in the "Boot Plan". Maybe he didn't like the fact that he didn't have the opportunity to participate in a mission that seemed interesting.

Mishakuji scolded Sukuna as he took the "Hero Pose".

"Delicious food requires preparation, Sukuna-chan."

"A moment ago you said: "Survival of the fittest". Winner takes all, right? Eat or be eaten?"

Sukuna manipulated the PDA into calling a certain news site. The person reflected there is none other than Mishakuji Yukari. Wearing an elegant suit, he smiled as if he were spinning on a potter's wheel.

"What the hell is this?! Why are you interviewing me without permission?!"

Sukuna looked at him and expressed his own impressions of him.

"It says here: "Beautiful CEO, Mishakuji Yukari. Member of "Jungle", which stretches into the future." Hey, you said something big."

"Oh, it's a cheap camera, but it looks pretty good. Let's spread it later."

"Hey, Nagare! Are you alright?"

Sukuna seemed to realize that he couldn't understand it and pointed at Nagare in a fit of anger. Nagare responded with an inorganic expression.

"Since the "boot plan" is a plan for us to make public, there is no problem in being exposed to the media. The method of exposure is entirely up to Yukari."

Mishakuji said confidently as he moved into the "Standing Tree Pose".

"In a group, something called a "flower" is necessary. That's right, the "flower" is me. With that, they will unite like bees attracted to honey."

"Don't say the same as the interview written here! Damn, the King of "Jungle" is Nagare! You're just a decoration!"

"I can't go to the "front" yet. If I make my whereabouts clear, it might invite other clans to intervene."

"Boot Plan" is a great mission to advance "Jungle" to the front. Since it was a plan to advance to the "table", a person was needed to be the representative. Nagare for the right reasons, Iwafune because of his personal beliefs and Sukuna because he is a boy, the white arrow was Mishakuji. That could be the reason why Sukuna was irritated.

However, Sukuna was right. In other words, it is a standing position, like a panda attracting customers, a clown. He was a little worried that it would go against Mishakuji's aesthetics.

"The decoration is not good. If it is a role that draws people's attention by beautifully decorating the whole body, I would appreciate it."

Surprisingly, Mishakuji was quite enthusiastic. Even if he is a clown, it might be a treat for him if he gets a lot of attention.

"I also really like the CEO position. There are many unique people among the VIPs in various fields, and various seeds are sprouting among the clan members."

As Mishakuji murmured in delight, the marker on the electronic map made a sound in response. A mission accomplished report. A great mission of 3000JP. What is shown there is a picture of a suspicious person wearing a black mask.

Iwafune reacted while he drank beer.

"Oh? Is this the ninja girl you mentioned?"

"That's right, Douhan Hirasaka. During the first attack on Mihashira Tower in October, she was captured by "Scepter 4" and lost a lot of points, but in the last month she regained points and returned to U-Rank."

"As expected of Douhan-chan. But she seems like she has recently become a good person."

It was a glamorous way of speaking that seemed to be typical of Mishakuji, but it was somewhat deceptive. Nagare tampered with the device and summoned a new person.

Iwafune put down the beer can and widened his eyes in surprise.

"Oh, this guy is..."

"It is rumored that he is a new face."

"Wow! News, new face!"

Everyone was staring at the person. He has a listless look and for some reason holds a knife in his mouth. It can be said that he is the person who is currently attracting the most attention within "Jungle". After all, his predecessor is his predecessor.

"Fushimi Saruhiko. Former number 3 of "Scepter 4". He has also rapidly increased his points since a month ago and has risen to U-Rank immediately."

"I know. This guy is a bounty boss."

Sukuna crossed her arms with a dangerous smile. Nagare, who understood what he was thinking, immediately stabbed him.

"Right now, the bounty on Fushimi Saruhiko has been suspended. I won't stop you if you want to fight, but I wouldn't recommend it. He is a promising player."

"Hmm."

Sukuna snorted and turned to the side. Iwafune asked as he stroked his beard.

"I for one am curious about the old "Scepter 4". If you think about it normally, he might be a secret agent, right?"

"Of course, we have the highest level of surveillance on him. However, no evidence of his contact with "Scepter 4" was found on any network. For now, we can only consider him as a target."

"Hmm, isn't it that kind of thing?"

The Fushimi icon made a sound signaling that the mission was accomplished. Seeing that point, Iwafune raised his voice.

"Hey, he has over 90,000 points!"

"It's not a point that can be earned in about a month. There's a chance some kind of trick will be used. It's fun."

"Hey, is that a trap?"

Sukuna clucked and Nagare quoted from the data Hirasaka sent the other day.

"According to him, it's not a trap, it's a glitch. If there's a hole, use "Jungle". I agree."

"......"

Sukuna's disgust grew stronger. But unfortunately, there was no adult there to calm him down. Mishakuji said happily as he gradually turned his body into "Hero Pose 2".

"If he completes the next big mission, he might even go up to J-Rank."

"Very likely. I have high hopes."

"Wow. This room is getting a bit lively."

The elders said what they wanted and Sukuna stood up as if he had been frustrated.

"Hmph, this is always not a big deal."

"Oh? Where are you going, Sukuna?"

"I'll catch some small fish."

Saying that, Sukuna headed towards the exit. Mishakuji cast a mocking voice behind him.

"OMG, a newcomer caught me and I got nervous~♪"

"Hey!"

Is it a sign from the stars that they looked at it? Sukuna, who must have realized that, didn't say anything else and left the room with wild steps.

Nagare bowed his head.

"I have a question. Why is Sukuna angry? An increase in our combat strength should be a joyous thing for us."

Iwafune laughed out loud, but did not answer the question. Instead, he fixed his gaze on Mishakuji.

"Yukari-chan, don't have fun and provoke the child. You are mean."

"Even if it's bad, it's love."

Smiling charmingly, Mishakuji made a heart symbol with his hand and, seeing that, Nagare bowed his head again.

++++++++++

"I am at home now."

When he opened the door to his room in the student dormitory, two voices greeted him at the same time.

"Welcome home~"

"Sorry to bother you."

One voice belongs to Isana Yashiro, who is a roommate. And then, the owner of the other voice left the room. Kukuri Yukizome. A common friend of Kuro, Shiro, and Neko. The smile she had on her face turned into a surprised face when she saw Kuro drenched.

"What? Is it raining outside? Towel, towel..."

Saying that, she retreated to the bathroom and threw down the bath towel. With a wry smile, Kuro accepted it gratefully.

"No... today I also had some problems with supernatural beings in the city."

Saying that, as he dried his hair, Kukuri frowned painfully.

"Oh, yes, there's a big ruckus here and there. I know, it's pretty scary when you first see it."

Kukuri crossed her arms and nodded. A year ago, she too experienced a similar situation when the school was occupied by "Homura". It was there that Kukuri first touched a supernatural power the world did not know.

Kukuri quickly waved her hand away.

"Ah! Sorry, I wasn't talking about Kuro-kun, okay? Kuro-kun and Wagahai-chan aren't scary at all!"

"I understand. Thank you, Kukuri."

"Hahaha... Ah, I have to go to the student council. Kuro-kun, I'll leave you some cookies, so please eat them."

In response, Neko's voice echoed from the living room.

"Wagahai is eating! It's delicious!"

"Well then Shiro-kun too. Good luck with your studies~"

"Yes, thanks."

And so, leaving only a bright smile, Kukuri lightly left.

Kuro put the used bath towel in the laundry basket and entered the living room. There, Shiro and Neko were sitting next to each other. A small table was placed on the raised tatami and a large amount of materials was spread out on it. With chimaki wrapped around his head, he looks like a student in the middle of a race.

"Thank you for shopping, Kuro. How is it outside?"

"The security situation is getting worse and worse. A month ago, the ''Slate'' that fell into the hands of the ''Green King'' surpassed the clan's boundaries and began to grant special abilities to common people."

After encountering a supernatural incident along the way, Kuro calmed down the panicked new Strains and then handed them over to ''Scepter 4''. Of course, they didn't cause it on purpose, so it shouldn't be a crime, but the confusion and fear that flashed in their eyes were vividly etched in his mind.

''Fortunately no one appears to have been injured, but that is within visible range. I've heard there's damage elsewhere."

For a moment, Shiro's movement stopped. He slightly tilted his face.

And Neko next to him took a cookie.

"Shiro!"

Out of reflex, Shiro opened his mouth. Neko tossed a cookie there and Shiro nodded slightly as he munched on the cookie.

"Yes. Take immediate action. We have to complete this investigation as soon as possible."

"No, I don't blame you, but you have a very auspicious attitude."

Shiro looked at Kuro and smiled with concern.

"Ahaha... I completely failed in the Christmas matter. But I can't give up. This time we have to properly stop the "Dresden Slate" and the "Green King" Hisui Nagare."

A month ago, the "Decisive Battle of Mihashira Tower" ended in complete defeat.

Although no one was killed, the "Dresden Slate" was captured and its subsequent whereabouts are unknown. "Scepter 4" continues to search with all its might for it, but due to the frequent incidents of supernatural powers, it seems that he is not going smoothly. It was only natural for Munakata to reject Shiro and Kuro's offer of help. Dogs are fond of "tracking."

However, it seems that Shiro didn't take the news of the force knocked out seriously.

There are things that only Shiro can do. How to deal with the "Dresden Slate" stolen by Hisui Nagare. Only Adolf K. Weismann, who discovered the "Slate", can come up with it.

"When I was a child, my sister scolded me a lot. "If you make a mess, clean it up yourself", she said."

Suddenly, Shiro looked into the distance and stared at the photo frame on the dining table.

There are sepia-toned photographs of three people, two men and a woman. Adolf K. Weismann, Shiro's predecessor, his sister Claudia Weismann, and a young Daikaku Kokujoji.

"I'm the only one who can clean it up. If I don't finish it properly, they'd both get mad."

Kuro has no way of knowing how Shiro feels about his late sister and best friend. He just looked down at the ground and speak with a vague thought.

"You've been doing great for the past month. I can't do anything, so I'm not worthy."

Right now, the only thing Kuro can do is calm down the commotion caused by "Jungle" and Hisui Nagare. It's not even a symptomatic treatment, it's just a cleaning. Even while he was doing that, the thought of Nagare constantly breaking the seal made him feel more and more impatient.

And while Neko nodded to that Kuro.

"That's right, Shiro is fine! Kurosuke is the useless one!"

"I don't want you to tell me that...!"

Kuro was a bit upset by her cheerful words, but he still felt relieved somewhere in his heart.

Because Neko had fully recovered.

Even after learning her true identity and choosing to stay with Shiro and Kuro, Neko still showed signs of depression from time to time. Neither Kuro nor Shiro clearly know the cause, because Neko didn't want to talk.

Maybe it's due to Neko's past. Shiro speculated that she had sealed her own memories due to some kind of trauma. She was very scared because it was about to be resolved.

She couldn't face the past that was so painful that she had to abandon it and be reborn as a different existence. Therefore, the only thing Kuro can do is be by her side. Together with Shiro, he snuggles up to Neko. That's all he can do.

A series of thoughts arose again, but...

"Kuro cooks for us every day."

Suddenly, Shiro said that. Kuro shook his head with a bitter face.

"Don't mix things up. It's serious."

Shiro smiled.

"It's a serious story. If Kuro doesn't cook for us, we'll die. If I don't do something with the "Slate", humanity will be in trouble. That's why I have to complete the countermeasures against the "Slate", and Kuro has to cook for us."

"That's right!"

Kuro smiled wryly at Neko to which she nodded. Just when he was wondering if she really understood, Neko nodded and said happily.

"Kurosuke works hard on his food! Shiro works hard on his studio! Wagahai works hard on supporting them! It's fine!"

Neko then took Kukuri's cookie and threw it at Kuro. As he looked at the cookie that he received, he thought that it was correct.

Do what you can. Step by step, move on. Ultimately, that's it. There is no point in rushing and if you try to find a way out, you may fall into a trap. She seemed like she was saying something irrelevant, but what Neko said was definitely the truth.

"That's right. I think so too."

Shiro reluctantly agreed and turned to the mass of material.

"I think I'll go with the "Sounding Hammer" plan for the "Slate". The Sanctum, which is deployed in a special state, causes an irreversible transition into the Weismann phase of the "Dresden Slate". This is an application of my sister Dr. Claudia Weismann's "Schwert Second Control Methodology", and it looks like this."

Shiro showed him a notepad with a diagram of arrows and spirals. No matter how you look at it, it's a child's doodle, but it's probably imbued with immeasurable meaning.

"Fufu, yes, that's good."

After all, Neko nodded. Looking at him, Kuro said.

"I see. For dinner, it's curry."

"Hurrah!"

"Curry! Yes!"

Neko and Shiro jumped for joy and clapped their hands. With a quick smile, Kuro headed to the kitchen to put on his apron.

++++++++++

Fujinouchi, Tokyo. Millennium Hotel.

New Year's Day is over, and the neighborhood, back to normal, was tremendously lively that day. Luxury limousines and stylish sports cars arrive one after another, spitting out beautifully dressed people. The relaxed and dignified appearance was exactly that of the upper class, and they entered the hotel one after another while chatting in groups.

Among the crowd were a couple of familiar people. A man and a woman.

As for the man, he is quite handsome with a soft gaze and a sweet mask. The elegant figure standing in a suit looks like a model somewhere.

The woman is a beauty with her glamorous limbs draped in an evening gown. Her chest, daringly open, is adorned with a pearl necklace.

It is about Izumo Kusanagi and Seri Awashima, number 2 of "Homura" and "Scepter 4".

They talked in secret.

"Still, I didn't expect to receive a date invitation from Seri-chan. And at a celebrity party like this."

"We are currently understaffed. In the first place, it was you who brought the information about this party."

The way they link arms and whisper in each other's ears is like a perfect lover. However, the sharp glances that Awashima occasionally displays as she watches the guests cannot be attributed to those of the upper class.

With a smile, Kusanagi brought his lips to Awashima's ear and pointed it out.

"Seri-chan, Smile, smile. Here, the daughter of the president of R&B Corporation, "Kusakabe Lise", I want you to behave appropriately."

"...I know."

After answering briefly, Awashima gave an awkward smile. The dress that makes movement difficult and the smile that hides her true face are far from the usual Awashima. She's not used to it, but work is work.

It was none other than Kusanagi who got the information that "Jungle" was planning a large-scale party.

The party, dubbed "Jungle Bootup Reception", was to be hosted by a new company "Jungle", which operates an advanced SNS, and invited celebrities from various fields. Many celebrities accepted the invitation, although they were not that famous, because they were starting to get the hang of it.

Concepts like clans and supernatural powers were hidden by "Tokijikuin". But that's just on a general level. It was an open fact for people who extended their antennae, even a little. And the recognition of "Jungle" was proof that the story of the capture of the "Dresden Slate" was widespread.

When she told him that information, Kusanagi said something reluctant.

"Those big boys have light footwork. Riding the winning horse, he's too cheeky. I wonder if that's the case."

That comment resonated with Awashima, from "Scepter 4," with a sense of coldness.

After they were defeated in the "Decisive Battle of Mihashira Tower", the loss of "Scepter 4" was clearly visible. The information provided by other public institutions stagnated and some began to blatantly ignore their requests. Even when she informed Munakata, all she could hear was a single word: "Are you sure?" That weakness was going to produce the result of being despised again.

Hearing such insults being openly uttered by some people about youths trying to seize hegemony in a country without knowing where they stood and were left on their knees after clumsily failing, Awashima felt her blood rise again.

However, Awashima said nothing. She is the deputy commander of "Scepter 4" and is in charge of all practical matters. Undercover investigation into this match was the "practice's" top priority. "Jungle, who hadn't been caught by his tail until now, dared to appear on the surface... No matter what, it was necessary to capture the information there.

Awashima said with a sigh.

"If Fushimi was here, I wouldn't have bothered you."

Fushimi Saruhiko left "Scepter 4" after the "Battle of Mihashira Tower", and his whereabouts were unknown.

The last time Fushimi was seen was in the "Scepter 4" detention center, when he escaped with Hirasaka Douhan.

She kept it inside "Scepter 4" and didn't tell other clans about it. Even Kusanagi shouldn't have known either.

"I see. Fushimi hasn't been found yet. What about Munakata-san?"

"I don't know. The chief's thoughts, Fushimi's feelings."

Awashima frowned as if to bear the pain. Kusanagi gently hugged Awashima's shoulder.

"Well, that's a disappointing face. It's a fun party, Seri-chan."

"Don't be silly."

Reflexively she tried to push his hand away from her, but she stopped. Actions that inadvertently attract attention should be avoided. Awashima looked at Kusanagi with an angry smile, and Kusanagi, with an unfamiliar attitude, continued to escort Awashima.

The receptionist at the "Jungle Bootup Reception" place was wearing a mechanical mask.

Awashima frowned. She has seen that mask many times. For Awashima, it was a symbol of a coward who wants to hide his true identity while he commits crimes. Awashima is frustrated and righteously outraged that such a coward would openly work as a receptionist at a luxury hotel.

Kusanagi gave Awashima a light pat on the back and stepped forward.

"Please sign in on the spot."

Kusanagi brought his face closer to the PDA that was outstretched. The PDA made an electronic beep and scanned Kusanagi's retina, displaying his ID. The receptionist smiled; although he couldn't see his face, he reached out and pointed to the door of the place.

"Kusakabe Izuru-sama and his wife. Welcome. Please head to the entrance there."

"Ok."

Awashima looked at Kusanagi as she walked arm in arm.

"So, I'm your "wife"?"

"Yes, my love."

Kusanagi doesn't feel uncomfortable at all. Awashima sighed softly, put on the domino mask she was given, and entered the venue.

The party venue was quite big. It is probably the most prestigious place in this hotel and you can see the night view of Tokyo from the windows that stretch along the wall. Under the luxuriously shimmering chandelier, celebrities in domino masks converse and are entertained by tuxedo-clad members of the "Jungle" clan. The only strange thing was that they were wearing a mask that covered their entire face.

"Hmm, this is a celebrity party that's better than you've heard."

In response to Kusanagi's admiration, Awashima quickly determined the customer's physiognomy.

"Senior government officials, businessmen, movie actors, writers, even the current prime minister."

The anger rose again. It is a well-known fact that it is none other than the current Prime Minister Kanichi Samukawa who is spearheading the condemnation of Munakata. First of all, "Jungle" is a terrorist, and it could be said that the Prime Minister's attendance at a party organized by that terrorist was a serious problem.

"Seri-chan, smile, smile."

"I know."

When she answered in a tone that he didn't understand at all, a voice suddenly blared from the ceiling speaker.

"I would like to thank everyone here for coming to the "Jungle Bootup Reception". On behalf of the organizers, "Jungle" Corporation CEO Mishakuji Yukari would like to greet everyone."

The lighting dimmed and a spotlight shone on the person who appeared on the stage. Both Kusanagi and Awashima are well acquainted with the man, with his hair slicked back and dressed in a smart suit.

"Everyone, welcome to the new era!"

The dignified behavior of him is almost the same as when he faced Kusanagi and Awashima in the "Decisive Battle of Mihashira Tower". Kusanagi muttered bitterly.

"Mishakuji Yukari from "Jungle", both his face and name are exposed. How bold."

"So he doesn't even feel the need to hide anymore."

As Mishakuji extended his arms, the screen behind him projected a huge "Jungle" logo. A confident speech echoed throughout the room.

"Everyone here is very lucky, because we can be the pioneers of a new era! Our information network "Jungle" will go beyond mere communication tools to redefine human beings as a next generation social infrastructure. The possibilities that before us are, yes, infinite..."

For Awashima, it was excruciating nonsense. No, her job is to make a fool out of it. Awashima winked softly at Kusanagi, leaving him and slipping into the crowd of people hanging out here and there. The voices of them gossiping whispered in Awashima's ear.

"The supernatural incidents that have been going on for a while have become a tailwind, haven't they?"

"It seems that the "Jungle" system will also be introduced to related ministries and agencies."

"There are rumors that that power will be ours."

With the power of her will, she hardened the expression that was about to turn hard. She knows there will be a headwind. She came all the way here to do something about it.

Then, she saw a middle-aged man waving his wine glass and laughing out loud.

"Well, it's a very happy day! Now that disgusting young man can't play any role! Is this the first year of "Jungle"? Hahaha!"

After stepping on the foot of the current Prime Minister with all her might with her heel, Awashima proceeded smoothly. It would be a lie to say that she couldn't stop drinking when she heard the screaming behind him, but Awashima quickly forgot. Because the target appeared right in front of her.

She pretended to trip in front of an attendant wearing a mechanical mask and then fell. The attendant immediately held Awashima up with one arm, and Awashima dared to press her chest against her arm.

"Oh, I'm sorry!"

From the other side of the mask, she could clearly feel the turmoil within. Awashima frowned in annoyance and looked at the staff with moist eyes.

"Excuse me, I'm a little dizzy."

"Oh, customer? Are you okay?"

"I wonder if I had too much to drink. I want to go somewhere quiet."

The attendant's throat rose and fell at the charming whisper.

++++++++++

And the officer collapsed on the ground.

He went down unconscious with a blow to a vital point, but it shouldn't be a lasting injury. Kusanagi turned to Awashima, who was next to him, after apologizing with a single bow.

[demonfox38]

Completed - Ys II: Ancient Ys Vanished – The Final Chapter

Do we need to do the GDQ Orb chant?

Jumping into "Ys II" after finishing "Ys I" may have been a touch masochistic on my part. Not that I didn't get through the game in a decent amount of time or didn't occasionally enjoy myself. But, that final boss…woof! What a goodwill shredder! Having said that, I still have my goal of 12 games to beat this year in front of me (with 9 being from my Steam library.) "Ys II" was right there, packaged right in with its predecessor. I figured if I was going to tackle it, now would be better than later. At least I would be going in prepped for the full abuse that the "Ys" series could throw at me with the memory of the Push System fresh in my fingertips.

I went in, prepared to take grenades to the face.

"Ys II" opted for tomatoes instead.

"Ys II: Ancient Ys Vanished – The Final Chapter" is the second in line of the "Ys" games. Notably, nowhere near the last. (I guess "final" here is about as final as the finals in "Final Fantasy!") Produced a year after "Ys I," it has since followed its counterpart in several ports across multiple PC platforms, providing an extended story arc for its predecessor. Is it a story conclusion? A contradictory twist? Continuing the twin theming from the previous game? Well, it's at least a couple of those things. Ya know. Things coming in twos and all.

Having defeated the wicked mage Dark Fact (yeah, I know; snicker snicker) and reunited all six tomes of Ys' sages from the first game, hero Adol goes from being gently bathed in light and surrounded by goddesses to being punted headfirst into a floating island. So much for his dignity and inventory! Oddly enough, this would happen to be the titular country of Ys that has been missing for over 700 years. Having been recovered once again by the locals, Adol takes their advice and journeys out to Solomon Shrine, where the two goddesses of Ys are said to—

Wait, I thought I was there last game. How is this shrine up here, too? Did I go into the past or a parallel dimension? No? Then how did nobody notice this floating island before? Does that have something to do with the storm wall in the first game? Translator, help? Did I misunderstand something from the last game? Why are you busy making "The Room" jokes?

Did "Ys II" need a sequel? Fiscally, sure! Plotwise? I thought we had solved enough problems last time. I guess not. Not that I mind killing demons, but going back-to-back with the previous game, it does feel a little bit unstable in terms of its plot's foundation. Most of the pieces I found interesting had to do with side elements, like the drama with Sada's failed rescue of his fiancée, as well as whatever hell the human-friendly demon Keith was going through. Even the main quest and its resolution is…fine. Good enough. I think I just got sick of everyone trying to hook up Adol with this game's lead girl.

Look, man. I'm just not into moe. I kind of need something more than a girl being cute and sweet going on to form an attachment. Especially when said character keeps getting in trouble every 30 seconds.

So, the plot's whatever. It happens. What I am surprised with is how well tuned up the gameplay is from the previous game. It's still got the base Push System for dealing with enemies. However, it felt way better to me this time around. I don't know if it had to do with wider hitboxes/environment design, or if I was doing better at paying attention to my attacks, or what changed. Something clicked, this time. I didn't feel so much like I was walking into a meat grinder as I was the meat grinder.

Additionally, the game grants you access to a variety of spells. This allows for ranged combat, which in turn greatly improved the boss design of "Ys II" over its predecessor. Last time around, it was all about fiddly movement. This time? The bosses felt more like something out of a bullet hell game, requiring you to respond in kind with your own fireballs. Like, actual boss design. "Gradius"-style boss design! And, hell! I can handle that! I was trained on those kinds of boss battles! Even in later battles, where your sword strikes were required, the game was not nearly as cruel as it was last time around. Like, it even pitches you extra healing items and a revive item, if you need it! Way more approachable!

The overall progression in game felt more logical as well. While you get more sets of armor and weaponry, it all flows upwards (not requiring the user to downgrade their weaponry to fight the final boss, like in the previous game.) The auto-health regeneration item also shows up way earlier, which I appreciated! There are more levels to be gained, but the statistic caps are the same (255), so it doesn’t feel too different there. A greater variety in environment design also helped. It wasn't just village/cave/shrine/tower, this time. Fire and ice environments in particular helped to break up some of the exploration monotony. The same labyrinthine looping is still happening, but it doesn't feel quite as snarled as before. Some places can feel huge or confusing, but not to the extent I felt with the previous game.

About the only other twist with "Ys II" is the implementation of a rudimentary affection system. If you equip a regenerative item (think food, flowers) and bump into a townsperson, you can offer them said item. Giving certain characters multiple items might get you little mascot charms of them, as well as bonus items. Me? I was about getting extra food. Not that I needed it much, but hey. I'm not throwing out a cheap steak.

My feelings on this game are weird. Very confusing. See, there's really not all that much difference between "Ys I" and "Ys II." There's still maze exploration, shoving monsters around, a difficult economy, and an occasional escort mission (complete with weird and/or creepy achievements.) Having a ranged option and some tuned up boss designs just made that much of a difference, I guess. Shit. Is this what "Mega Man 2" fanatics feel like?

Getting "Ys II" on Steam does necessitate getting "Ys I" as well, so I guess I would wait for a sale, if the sequel did sound appealing to you. Like, 50% off? 0.5 is just an inversion of 2, right? Makes it thematically appropriate. Somehow. I guess.

I mean, you don't have to play everything you buy. But, I certainly don't want to burden you with something extra. Then again, if we finally hit that triple A gaming crash that we're due for, maybe you'll finally have time to tackle your backlog! Maybe then, this won't feel like a burden to add.