#might be I'm forgetting something crucial

[wonderinc-sonic]

Okay now latest idw issue has been out for a minute, smarter friends help me with the below question?

Can someone remind me why Lanolin is apologising like she's betrayed Tangle and Whisper? I can't flick back to read the previous right now, but all I remember is her being in the dark about everything, not immediately trusting Sonic and his instincts, and being ticked off about the danger he caused? Not to be type A, but I'm with her. All she had to be sorry about was being a bit difficult.

Tangle and Whisper were the ones who kept her in the dark and forced her to deal with things changing at shorter notice - something she's known not great at. I mean really, they should be mad at Sonic and co for putting such a risky plan in play and keeping them all in the dark, even though the diamond cutters could have been helpful. Whether or not we believe they would have all worked against restoration - fair enough. But that's the natural direction of rage, or at least would seem to be to me.

Am I forgetting something? I liked the story, but frankly this has made me like Tangle a bit less than I once did. Also didn't love how Mimic got outed, that made Whisper look quite stupid. Hope next time they clash she gets to be a bit cleverer and hold a few more of the cards.

[cowsabungus]

Make pride accessible for everyone!!!!

I made a post about this last year and the year before, and thought if I did it this way it gives people and orgs something to work towards. Often people forget that disabled people aren't just wheelchair users, and even those who are, need more than just that ramp!

My first ever pride, not only as a wheelchair but my first ever EVER pride, I went in expecting to feel at home.

Obviously I wasn't, I'm disabled, so why should I?

Instead there was just a ridiculous amount of uneven flooring, a steep ramp to the disabled toilet, no sanitary towel bin in the disabled toilet (???) no allowances to be let out of the festival to fetch things from my car, no where quiet and organisers who seemed genuinely surprised to see a wheelchair user!

My next pride, three years later, I was a seller, and while they had sorted their toilet problem (still no sanitary towel bin???), the hill to get in wouod have been genuinely impossible for me to get to if I hadn't been driving to get my stall in anyway, even with someone pushing me, no quiet areas, plenty of kerbs for me to get stuck at and again, genuine surprise.

Why is it so surprising to consider disabled people might be at pride? Not only do queer disabled people exist, but parents and family of queer kids and people, vendors and even entertainers!

Making pride accessible is crucial!

ID available in Alt Text

[jikookuntold]

The Untold Stories of “Are You Sure!?”

I know it's been quite some time since Jikook's travel show, Are You Sure?, aired on Disney+, and I've been wanting to share my thoughts about it here ever since. After watching the entire series twice, I've finally organized my reflections and found time to put them into words. Without further preamble or disclaimer, let's dive right in.

I’m Not Sure…

I must admit that a duo trip for Jikook and a reality show based on it wasn’t in the most optimistic Jikookers’ bingo card. But we got it in the best way possible, a whole Disney+ series with some of the most beautiful, meaningful, and intimate Jikook moments to gush about for years. Through the eight episodes, we saw them talking sweetly, laughing together, cuddling and touching intimately, being domestic, and taking care of each other. I can talk about those moments for hours, but I know many Jikookers have done it in the past few months, and I’m going to look at this show from a different point of view; What does this show add to our Jikookery encyclopedia?

For new fans, this show can be a guide to know more about Jikook’s real and special bond, but for veteran Jikookers like us, maybe there was not much new information. We cherished seeing them together, enjoyed their sweet moments, and learned more unknown facts about them and their dynamics. You may say we already knew how inseparable and couply they are and have been familiar with their domestic nature. But was that all we perceived from AYS, or we can go deeper and find more? Yes, there is always more to see without hallucination or delusion.

First of all, keep in mind that AYS is a TV show after all, and we know TV shows, including reality shows, can be scripted. These shows are often filmed and edited in ways that emphasize specific narratives or push certain agendas. I’ve discussed the topic of "Scripts in BTS Content" before (link) and concluded that the narratives in BTS reality shows, especially the paid ones, aren’t far from the members’ real dynamics, making them largely authentic. However, in the case of AYS, we have even more solid proof of this authenticity: Jimin and JK themselves confirmed that we see them as they are in the show.

But the thing is, what we saw in the show wasn't everything. No matter how honest and authentic they try to be, approximately 96% of the footage had to be edited out to condense an eight-day trip into less than ten hours of television series. This percentage would be even higher if we accounted for duplicate shots from multiple cameras and repeated scenes - though there's no precise way to calculate this. The truth remains: there was far more that went unseen, and I'm attempting to shed light on these untold stories from "Are You Sure?!"

USA

The first chapter of AYS was also the shortest, consisting of only two episodes, and it began with Jikook in New York, US. The timing of this trip was particularly interesting: JK traveled to the US on July 12th for his "Seven" promotions and GMA performance, and the next day, we saw Jimin at the airport heading to the same destination. Unofficial sources had announced that they were planning to film something together in New York - which turned out to be true, though not the full story. What many Jikookers overlooked was the significance of this moment for JK's career. As he embarked on his solo journey with a bold, sexy song and romantic music video, he clearly wanted Jimin by his side during this pivotal and stressful moment.

Meanwhile, Jimin’s presence beside JK served as crucial emotional support during this important moment in his career. While some might argue that Jimin similarly supported Hobi and Suga during their solo performances by traveling to the US, and JK is just another BTS member he loves and supports. But don’t forget that both times in August 2022 and May 2023 had coincided with Jimin’s own solo schedules in that country. This time, however, his trip had no purpose other than filming a potential travel show and simply being there for JK. This was when Jimin had just finished recording his second album, Muse, and "finally" had free time to spend with JK, plus, unlike Hobi and Yoongi’s solo performances, Jimin’s presence in New York for JK, wasn’t covered in the respective Bangtan Episode.

However, their journey immediately faced setbacks: JK's live performance was canceled due to heavy rain in New York, leaving him feeling gloomy, he even joked about being "cursed by water" on their first day. On the other hand, Jimin got sick and spent most of the day unwell, growing pessimistic about their show's prospects. Despite this streak of bad luck, they managed to uplift each other and enjoy being together. The second day told a different story, with Jimin feeling better and JK supposedly being happy about "Seven" topping the charts, their real dynamic emerged, leading to some of their most intimate moments. I’m sure you know which moments I’m talking about.

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: “Jikook discussing how they hadn't seen each other”. Their conversation in the first episode about this separation raised questions about their dynamic during the solo era, specifically the period between the YTC Busan concert and the release of "Seven". Despite the inaccuracy in the official English subs for this part of the episode, I have to remind you, the era Jikook were talking about was when Jin and then Hobi enlisted in the military after releasing their farewell gifts for fans, Namjoon and Jimin released solo albums, and Yoongi embarked on a solo tour after his comeback.

At the same time, we stopped seeing Jikook together as frequently as before. This coincidence between the solo era activities and Jikook's so-called separation fueled conspiracy theories among haters, with claims like "Chapter two revealed the members' true relationships”. But we already had the answer to these claims: Jimin was working intensely on not one but two albums simultaneously, leaving him little time to spend with JK or anyone else outside his work. Meanwhile, JK had more free time, which explains why he was frequently seen socializing with various friends and acquaintances.

So, the question is: Did Jikook really not see each other for six, seven months? We witnessed them together at least four times during this period and it appears our definition of "not seeing each other" differs from Jikook’s. They were specifically referring to their inability to spend meaningful quality time together, which simply wasn't possible during that era. However, immediately after finishing recording his second album, Jimin went straight to JK to create new memories with him. Personally, I think parts of this "separation era" weren't solely due to busy schedules. At that time, they still were not sure about their upcoming enlisting situation, and perhaps they were trying to do a trial for their eventual military separation, but they failed miserably, ended up pining over each other. So, this result possibly leading to their joint enlistment decision. Of course, this remains just a theory and I could be entirely wrong, and the simpler explanation might be Jimin's overwhelming workload at the time.

Now let's discuss the untold part of the story. After wrapping up their trip and filming, Jimin returned to South Korea on July 18th while JK remained in the US to depart for London the following day. Considering the time difference between Connecticut and South Korea, Jimin actually stayed for more night and day after filming concluded. This means they spent at least one full night and day together off-camera. Antoya, the New York restaurant, confirmed in an official post that Jimin and JK dined there twice, first time with cameras and staff and the second time without them, while the show included only brief footage from Antoya, mere seconds of them discussing JK's sore throat.

Based on their filming schedule, we can determine the second visit occurred after they returned to New York from Connecticut, following the completion of shooting. This confirms they enjoyed private time together, just the two of them. Jikook's time in the US wasn't just about their couple-like conversations during hikes or their casual touches on the boat or in bed. Their connection went much deeper: JK cared for Jimin when he was sick, prayed for his recovery, and prepared special meals for him. Similarly, Jimin supported JK through his stressful days, and as we realized by analyzing their travel schedules earlier, it was something that extended far beyond simply filming a show.

We never saw footage of Jikook's topless photo on the wharf or never witnessed how Jimin's nose got injured by JK's elbow in their sleep. While we were deprived of many potential moments, what we did receive were some of the most genuine and authentic episodes of the series. The impact of this trip on Jikook was big enough that we saw JK passionately discussing their experience on Suchitwa and begging Jimin to join his live just days after returning, the experience that was pleasant enough to motivated them to continue the show with more travel destinations.

Jeju

The next destination for Jikook’s travel show was Jeju Island in South Korea. These three episodes featured Taehyung accompanying Jikook, though his participation was included to the show only two days before filming began. While this last-minute addition sparked unnecessary controversy among some shippers, it’s important to recognize the benefits of Taehyung’s guest appearance; it proved that aside from the predetermined itinerary and props, nothing else about the show was scripted. Moreover, despite the presence of a third party, Jikook continued to display their unique and romantic connection - both on and off camera. Also, for viewers seeking an unbiased comparison of their dynamics, these episodes are valuable case studies.

Vminkook enjoyed numerous exciting activities in Jeju, from ocean fishing and kart racing to more mundane moments like shared meals, sleep, and playing together. Despite the Jeju episodes having the shortest average runtime (60 minutes compared to 63 and 77 minutes for the US and Sapporo) and including lengthy scenes like their 15-minute Japanese restaurant meal, we were still treated to precious Jikook moments. Highlights included their heartfelt conversation about enlisting together, the adorable pool scene, their casual cuddles in bed, and romantic interactions alongside playful bickering and roleplaying. These moments, authentic and unfiltered, reinforced just how deeply connected and inseparable they are, no matter who accompanies them.

Aside from what was shown on camera, there were some other interesting facts to notice. As we know, the Jeju filming officially began on September 26th and concluded on the 28th, just before Chuseok. I’m not sure if you were aware of the rumors from a credible source, about Jikook being spotted in Jeju during August that year, but I understand if you remain skeptical. Regardless of the rumor’s validity, Jimin himself confirmed their off-camera time together when he mentioned spending the night with JK right before departing for Jeju.

What makes this sleepover particularly special is the fact that JK had only arrived in Seoul the previous day, and we witnessed him rushing through the airport to go home. By his own admission, he hadn’t slept since landing, implying they stayed awake together all night. Even more intriguing, we later learned that Jikook received confirmation of their buddy system approval that same day. It’s highly likely they celebrated this news with a night of dining and drinks together alone—yet all we received was a vague mention in the show.

However, these off-camera moments extended far beyond their private date night. When JK’s mom mentioned Jimin twice during their phone call and inquired about their Chuseok reunion, the warmth of familial bonds was sensible. Throughout their trip, JK remained by Jimin’s side, even when Taehyung stepped away for personal activities, he lingered nearby even as Jimin slept, a quiet but telling detail. The show removed many intimate moments, for example the footage related to the iconic photobook image of JK proudly displaying Jimin’s name written in sunscreen on his belly. But I’m far from disappointed, if anything, I’m grateful for all the beautiful moments we got beyond our expectations.

Japan

As someone who doesn't particularly enjoy cold, snowy weather, I found these Sapporo episodes to be unexpectedly warm and sweet, and they left me emotionally attached. It's no surprise that Jikook themselves seemed to cherish this part of their travels most of all, as it marked their final trip before military enlistment. Japan has held special meaning for them since at least GCF in Tokyo, and winter has always been their favorite season. While their US trip presented some mishaps they weren't prepared for, and Jeju introduced a third party that altered their dynamic, Sapporo offered something different. Here, they seemed at ease - ready and willing to showcase their peak authentic, boyfriend behavior.

The Sapporo episodes featured some of the most memorable moments in the entire series, from their strolls along snowy sidewalks and playful antics on Sapporo's empty streets to listening to romantic songs while sharing AirPods on the train. Their indoor moments were also precious from playing and bickering to half naked Jacuzzi moments. At one point, Jimin remarked that is just how they are at home as laying on the floor singing, as JK effortlessly completing his verses like it is their everyday routine. Though their impending enlistment loomed in their thoughts and made the atmosphere bittersweet, these moments felt so natural and effortless.

There were so many sweet moments in these three episodes that I won’t be able to recount every one of them, I know you remember them as vividly as I do, and I cherish them all. As this post’s purpose suggests, I want to focus on the untold part of their Japan journey: Tokyo. We all saw them depart Seoul on November 23rd and return on the 28th, yet the three episodes of Japan only covered Sapporo. What went unshown were their two nights and two days in Tokyo. Yes, JK had his "Hate You" MV filming and an interview scheduled, but Jimin had no professional reason to accompany him, he could have joined JK later in Sapporo. Jimin was amid preparing Muse and might have used those days to rest or wrap up his work. Yet they chose to travel together, deliberately carving out private time away from cameras.

So, it's safe to say that the Tokyo portion of Jikook's Japan trip served as their private time together - a detail made even more meaningful by their personal history with the city. Throughout show promotions and commentary, they referenced their 2017 trip a few times, suggesting that they wanted to recreate those precious memories before enlistment. And so they did just for the two of them, preserving these new moments for themselves just as they had six years prior, never intended for filming or public viewing, and all we saw was a beautiful four-minute long edit created by JK himself, and of course Jimin’s sweet twitter edit. But this time, two photos of Jimin in Tokyo presumably taken by JK was all that we were allowed to see.

We Are Sure

After years of promoting the OT7 (7-1=0) narrative, Are You Sure?! a travel show, exclusively featuring Jikook, emerged as a completely unexpected phenomenon. To be honest, this Jikook portrayal, unaligned with most of the Jikook narratives we have seen from Hybe in the past few years. Does this signal a future shift? A soft or hard launch? I can't say for certain, and I prefer to remain pessimistic, only time will reveal the truth. What's undeniable is that AYS was a gift and a blessing for anyone who genuinely loves Jimin and JK. The series offered us rare glimpses of their authentic dynamic, something we'll always be grateful to Jikook for sharing. Across eight episodes and 52 minutes of behind-the-scenes footage, their undeniable chemistry shone through. Their endless inside jokes and constant roleplaying revealed just how close they are off-camera, maintaining their special connection in their own private world.

After reflecting on all the beautiful moments in Jikook's exclusive show, I wanted to end this post on a positive note, but one issue demands acknowledgment. Jimin and JK openly expressed their love for this journey and the series itself, and asked us to give it love and support. Yet the harsh reality remains; ARMY collectively chose to ignore the show, even voting against it for iHeartRadio awards. While disappointing, this wasn't surprising, because these haters knew that any success for this show could signal Hybe to produce similar content in the future, an outcome they clearly fear. At the very least, I challenge those dismissing Jikook's bond as "fanservice", true fanservice caters to fans, and when the so-called fandom rejects the content, this label becomes meaningless.

Whether fans like it or not, and regardless of Hybe commercialization, Jikook will continue doing as they please, and their actions clearly demonstrate that being together is their priority. Their joint enlistment and little to no updates from the military proven this beyond doubt. Military service is no luxury vacation in some lavish villa with yachts and fancy meals; they aren’t being paid to film content. They consciously chose harsher conditions solely to remain together, knowing separation would be unbearable for them. What they share is a bond built to last a lifetime. I feel privileged to exist in the same era as Jikook, and I pity those who either cannot or refuse to recognize their beautiful relationship.

[oceansoul001]

After 170 hours I've finished Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 and I cannot even start to describe this emptiness I'm feeling now, knowing that there is no more of this great story waiting for me to experience (at least for now). What a wild ride it was and what a surprisingly amazing game, with all the twists and turns of the plot, all the memorable characters that I deeply cared about and rooted for, all the emotions of Henry's journey and all the thoughts about war, revenge, duty, and finally making peace with the past and moving on. The emotional spectrum of the game is astounding - it can so flawlessly switch between being extremely funny or delightfully absurd to being heartbreaking or devastating in the heaviest moments. But as the game’s content is so dense and rich, that writing down all my thoughts would require a whole book, or at least a dissertation, I would like to specifically touch upon one, nomen omen touchy subject. The Henry-Hans romance.

I'm not sure if it is possible yet, but I would also like to skip over all the controversy-driven discussions regarding this romantic subplot, clearly lead in bad faith and mostly by people not even engaging with the game, and be able to talk about this topic and analyze it as it is, without questioning its right to even exist in the game. Why do I focus on this quite small and optional aspect of the game at all? Well, I’m not gonna lie – I always find the RPGs with possible romances more engaging and captivating, as love – as a general emotion, with different shades of it – is in my eyes one of the crucial aspect of any hero. So if we are already talking about the love towards parents or other family members, patriotic love for your country, or king, platonic love between friends and comrades, and then all of a sudden omit only the romantic love, something is not adding up for me. If you want to give me a rich RPG experience, give me at least one good romance option, and I’m sold. But it is not easy at all, especially the “good” part.

But as KCD2 is a very unique game when it comes to its different aspects – like the demanding, slow-paced gameplay, or the unique blend of open-world with more contained main plot missions – it is also very unique when it comes to the romance options, or, let me say it aloud – when it comes to THE main romance option, the most integral romance option, the most naturally developing romance option in the game. The Henry-Hans (optional) romance that we can observe growing very slowly throughout this 100+ hours, is for me one of the best and most meaningful depictions of love in any RPG with player's agency. This relation, even if you opt out of romance, simply has it all - is intertwined with the plot, is rooted in character development and has the possibility to depict characters together during many different situations throughout the whole game. And this is how a good romanceable character should be written in a video game – as an independent character first and foremost, NOT as a character that was created with a sole purpose to serve as said romance option. In this case Hans ALWAYS plays a meaningful part in the story, and ALWAYS shares an important bond with your Henry, regardless of player's decision whether to engage with the romance or not. But many other games seem to forget about that, or don’t manage to create the bond between characters first, before the option to romance them appears.

And then comes the hard to describe aspect of THE FEELS. The slow development of this relation, the steady growth of feelings, up to the point, when you cannot deny it any longer, and when you cannot allow yourself to not act upon them - because of the circumstances, because of this sense of impending doom, that makes all the risks worth taking, as any of you might anyway be dead the next day. Audentes Fortuna Iuvat, remember? The risk that Hans takes in the decisive moment of this relation is THE epitome of his saying, and I don’t believe it is a coincidence when it suits so perfectly to the whole theme of the game and to Hans as a character in general. And this bold risk taking is so gut-clenching and heartbreaking, but also heartwarming in this one stolen moment of happiness that seems unreal. Say what you want, but you simply cannot tell this kind of story, invoke this kind of feelings - without first having two equally developed characters, that the player equally cares for and have cared for before any romance possibility was on the horizon. Add to the mix very real external hardships (all good romances need a hardship to overcome!), that due to the time and place make this relation tragically doomed before it even has begun, and there you have it - one of the most compelling romantic stories I have experienced in a video game, hands down.

And please don’t start with medieval this, medieval that, before you stop and think about greatest medieval love stories (that we know of) – these are always stories of impossible love, of doomed love, of forbidden love. Of two people, that cannot and should not be together because of the class they belong to, because of the promises made, because of duty, because of sin and religion dogma. Don’t tell me you cannot see the comparison between Henry and Hans, and, say, Tristan and Isolde, THE number one medieval chivalric romance couple, where they commit sin against God and betray their King at the same time, every time they are together. Don’t tell me that Henry, who clearly aspires to all the ideals that we associate with knighthood – chivalry, protection of the weak, devotion to land and rightful king, and generally noble idealism, let’s call it – is not the perfect hero of chivalric romance, with Hans being of course his damsel-princess, way above his league, already promised to another and soon to be in a loveless, political marriage, spending parts of the game either captured in some tower or stuck in some castle, having to wait for his knight to safely return to him. It is all there, I am sure not accidentally, and it fits all the themes and motifs known from both actual medieval literature and their pop culture representation SO WELL if you think about it for a second.

And there's one more component that elevates this particular relation to S-tier for me. You can have superb writing, you can direct the most impressive cutscene, you can have the build-up ready - all of these won't matter and won't work if the actors don't sell you the romantic feelings in the key moment. Which I assume is not easy, when for the most part you play other aspects of these characters and probably were not cast with this specific plot point in mind. But here comes Luke Dale, showing us the side of Hans Capon that we have not seen before, with the most heart-wrenching expression of his fears, with voice breaking at the exactly right moment, the trembling, the anger, the despair, but also the tiniest bit of hope - and in just two broken sentences he conveys it all, and it's all so bloody real. It's a masterwork, and I'm so happy that I could witness it in game, even more - become part of this relationship as the playable character himself.

I sincerely hope that the end of the main game is not the end of this subplot, as there is still so, so, so much more to explore with these characters in these circumstances. And their relation is so unique, comparing to popular fiction in general, but even more so in video games, that it would be a great loss to just leave them be as they are at the end of the game. I cannot wait for the possibility to go through more emotional turmoil with Henry and Hans, probably because I cannot even remember when was the last time I’ve fallen in love with fictional characters so much and so fast, as with these two. And as already said, love is the key. 

[satoruswifeyyyy]

grocery shopping with bratty satoru

masterlist

grocery shopping with satoru was supposed to be a quick errand. a normal task. something simple. but you forgot one very crucial detail: satoru is incapable of being normal.

“you’re pushing the cart too fast,” he whined dramatically, jogging to keep up as you walked down the produce aisle. “what’s the rush? it’s not like the tomatoes are gonna sprout legs and run away.”

“they might, if they hear you talking,” you deadpanned, grabbing a handful of tomatoes and placing them in a bag.

“how dare you insult my sweet tone!” he gasped, clutching his chest like you’d just slapped him. “my voice is a gift to the world.”

“your voice is why i wear noise-canceling headphones at home,” you retorted, moving on to the cucumbers.

he grabbed a cucumber and held it up like a microphone. “tell us, oh great shopper, how do you choose the perfect cucumber?”

“by shoving it into the cart before my overgrown toddler of a boyfriend can use it to embarrass me,” you replied, tossing the cucumber into the cart.

satoru grinned, leaning on the cart as he sauntered after you. “so mean, yet so cute. i'm starting to think you keep me around for entertainment.”

“i keep you around because the store doesn’t let me use the express lane without two people,” you teased, heading toward the snacks aisle.

“ih, the betrayal!” he gasped, trailing dramatically behind you. “i thought it was my charming personality, my good looks, my—”

“don’t forget your giant ego,” you interrupted, attempting to toss a bag of chips into the cart but failing to do so.

picking the bag from the ground, he threw it into the cart with unnecessary flair. “you’re lucky i’m forgiving. what’s next? chocolate? ice cream? no spicy food though!”

“how about something to keep your mouth occupied so I can shop in peace?” you suggested, grabbing a jar of salsa.

“you wound me,” he sighed, clutching the cart like he might faint. “if only,” you muttered under your breath.

but before you could add anything else to the cart, satoru wrapped his arms around your waist from behind, resting his chin on your shoulder. “you’re so mean to me,” he pouted, his voice full of affection.

“If i were nice to you, you’d think i was sick,” you replied, trying to wiggle free.

“no way. i'd just assume you finally realized how amazing I am.”

“amazing at being annoying,” you shot back, though the corners of your lips twitched upward despite yourself.

“ah-ha! I saw that!” he exclaimed, spinning you around to face him. “you’re smiling. admit it, you love me.”

“yeah, yeah,” you said, grabbing a box of cookies and shoving them into his hands. “i love you almost as much as i love grocery shopping alone.”

satoru laughed, leaning down to press a quick kiss to your forehead. “too bad, you’re stuck with me. now, let’s go find the ice cream before i start crying in public.”

as you turned toward the frozen foods, satoru suddenly lit up like a kid on christmas morning. “ooh, the cheese section!”

“do we really need five different types of cheese?” you asked, staring at the cart that was beginning to resemble a buffet.

“yes,” he replied confidently, tossing a block of gouda into the cart. “What if I wake up one day and feel like swiss, but all we have is cheddar? tragic.”

you grabbed the pack of gouda cheese and put it back. “we don’t need all this. you’re not a one-man charcuterie board.”

“but my refined palate!” he gasped, looking scandalized. “your refined palate eats instant ramen at 3 a.m. and thinks potato chips are a food group,” you deadpanned.

he smirked. “and yet, here you are, still madly in love with me.”

rolling your eyes, you pulled the cart away. “we’re sticking to the list. no more random luxuries.”

“random luxuries? excuse me, but this cheese is a necessity,” he argued, holding up a tiny packet with an outrageous price tag.

you snatched it from his hand and put it back. “no one needs $1300 pule cheese for their pizza,toru.

"fine, fine,” he relented, though you could tell he wasn’t actually upset. “but you owe me something sweet for being such a responsible adult.”

grabbing a pack of his favorite candy, you tossed it into the cart. “happy now, you spoiled brat?”

he grinned, ruffling your hair. “ecstatic. you’re lucky you’re cute, or i'd be unbearable.”

“you’re already unbearable,” you replied, laughing despite yourself.

with satoru, even the simplest tasks turned into a chaotic adventure. embarrassing, loud, and ridiculous—but also sweet in its own way. life with him was anything but ordinary, and maybe, just maybe, you wouldn’t have it any other way.

A/N: suguru coming up next :)

[yesimwriting]

Study Break

a/n halloween drabble <333 i wrote this while kind of sad so if it's bad that's why <3

Summary: Final-girl verse fic!! You want to catch up on homework before Halloween, unfortunately your best friends have other plans

----

Whoever decided to make October one of the most academically crucial months of the year was definitely not a teenage girl.

You sigh, attention shifting away from your textbook and towards the fabric hanging on your closet's door handle. The dress, a pale pink thing that you'll definitely regret wearing the second the late-fall chill settles over the night, is the main part of your costume. A costume the world may never see if you don't finish studying for your history test.

The thought of the totally unacceptable brings you back to reality. You turn your head, forcing yourself to reread a passage on the Treaty of Paris.

After familiarizing yourself with some familiar names, you pick up an orange highlighter--which is the closest you've come to being seasonally festive--as your study mix CD begins to play a new song. The soft notes that make up the intro are cut off by a sharp click.

It's not horrifying, but you can feel your back straighten out of instinct. Your back presses into your desk's chair. You turn your head slowly.

The door to your bedroom is open, but there's nothing to be scared of in the doorway. "Guys."

Stu grins at the recognition. "Your mom let us in." He moves his hand away from your CD player before letting his arm fall to his side. "We wanted to scare you."

Despite knowing better, you let the corner of your mouth pull itself upwards. "Well then I'm completely terrified."

"Good." Stu steps further into your room, approaching your dresser. He picks up a tube of lip gloss you keep forgetting to reunite with the rest of your makeup. "Festive." He twists the tube's lid--back and forth, almost fully off and almost fully on. "Now let's keep that up and go."

You blink. Stu's sudden shifts don't surprise you as much as they used to, but you still haven't figured out how to keep up. "Go?"

Billy straightens, his body shifting away from the doorway. "The movie theatre's playing the first Halloween."

Oh. It's the kind of thing you'd usually love to be invited to. "It sounds fun," you keep your voice light, doing your best to keep your tone enthusiastic enough to convey that you do want to go without coming off as overly chipper, "But there's this history test on Friday."

Stu stills, his fingers pausing against the lipgloss tube. You tap your nails against your knee. There's objectively nothing wrong with what you've said--the three of you didn't have any pre-established plans and they didn't even call ahead to ask if you were free. But saying 'no' to them almost always makes something in your stomach knot. It's not guilt exactly, but it's an uneasy enough feeling that you do your best to avoid it.

"Yeah, your mom mentioned something." Billy steps forward.

You frown at the thought of your mom making you sound a lot lamer than you really are. You're too old to be embarrassed by your study habits, but it doesn't mean you need them advertised. "Yeah?"

"She said to see if we have better luck pulling your head out of that textbook than she did." For a second, you think Billy might be smiling, but he turns his head too quickly for you to be sure. You narrow your eyes at him as he approaches your CD player. He presses play, letting the next song on your CD finally start.

An uncomfortable warmth begins to crawl up your neck. "I..." You busy yourself with placing the cap back onto your highlighter. "I have a schedule."

Stu walks towards your bed. He sits down with a much too heavy sigh. "You always have a schedule."

"Not true."

Your defense is immediately countered, "Kind of true."

You twist in your seat, neck craning in an attempt to look at Billy. He briefly holds your stare before letting his chin dip downwards, his eyes focusing on your floor. "You guys are being dramatic, I just want to do good on this one test."

"Come on." Stu's pulled your fluffy pillow onto his lap. "You study more than anyone I know." He drags his nails against the pillow, flattening tufts of synthetic hair. "You're gonna be fine."

With a sigh, you turn your attention back to your open textbook. You have been reviewing the first few units for days now... "I just..." You don't know how to make it make sense. You know that you study and that you try and that realistically you're not going to permanently damage your GPA, but it's not easy to let go of. "Worry, I guess."

Stu lifts his head. "Then you need someone to distract you." He combs his fingers through the pillow's fluff. "You don't want to end up like Jack."

It only takes you a second to realize that he's talking about the Shining. You fight against a smile, pressing your lips together in an attempt to seem neutral. "Pretty sure he had other things going on."

"Actually," Billy starts, "I think in the original draft it was a history test that drove him crazy."

"Very funny." With a sigh, you push your seat back, moving to stand, "Let's play it safe and not risk it."

Stu grins, moving your pillow off of your lap before standing. He's next to you before you can even think to step away from your desk. "You should always listen to us, babe." He places a hand on your shoulder. "We know best."

You roll your eyes at the comment, but let him guide you forward anyway. "Don't start."

"Ignore him." Billy pauses your music before stepping towards the door. "He bought Halloween candy today and he's already had more than half the bag."

You're not surprised. "Makes sense."

Something sharp presses into your shoulder--the pressure just pointed enough to be noticeable. Did he just--"Stu!" You turn your head towards Billy. "He pinched me."

Billy turns just enough to glare at Stu. "Really?"

"She's being dramatic." As if to prove his point, Stu makes a show of smoothing his hand against your shoulder. "And you can't let her get away with everything just because she's pretty."

You're used to Stu's compliments, but this one was sudden and indirect enough to take you by surprise. You're too distracted by the warmth crawling up your neck to say anything.

[paracosm-draw]

Oh that's it. The worst thing about the success of the ROTS release is having to read through all the bullshit and one-sided views concerning Anakin's fall and his actions before, during and after it, and the way some people try to appropriate his character (imaginary) to justify their own twisted moral (real).

Disclaimer, I don't pretend to know better than other people, this is just my point of view.

First, it's pretty hard to ignore that Anakin's fall to the dark side is multifactorial. No, he didn't decide to slaughter children because the Council was unfair to him once, but the fact that most of the Council members looked at him as a child and perceived that something was wrong* with him from the start, and decided not to provide the help he clearly needed while never completely trusting him probably played a role in his construction and future mindset.

*Wrong as in fearing for his mother's life - the only family/caretaker/reliable person he ever knew - which is completely normal for a nine year old kid being ripped off his normality. Normality being to exist as a literal slave with all it implies (not being considered a person, being deprived of rights, care, protection, dignity, needs, being sold to unknowns when you're not simply killed because you're "trouble" or not useful anymore.) Can you imagine the impact of being born a possession and having to live in survival mode every single day has on the psyche of any individual ? Let alone a child born in slavery ? Some people really conveniently tend to forget that.

So now imagine that you've lived your first nine years of life as literally nobody, and suddenly someone comes and offers you a future. Like a real future. And a status as a person, but not only a person with free will and the right to exist, but one of the most respected people in the Galaxy. Oh but there's more. Because you're special. You were no one and now you're special. Unique. Because before you even learn how to live for yourself, you're expected to bring balance to something you don't even understand yet. People have expectations for you, a plan already traced for your life when your home planet is still visible in the windshield and you just learned what freedom meant.

I'm not a psychologist but I can imagine the impact this duality can have on a person's ego and view of themselves. The switch of power dynamic might be exhilarating. Suddenly you go from saved to saviour. From outlaw to vigilante. From nothing to everything. That's exactly when I think Obi-Wan and the Order had a crucial role to play. Anakin was not a stable kid and couldn't have been considering the childhood he had. He has deep psychological wounds and trauma that nobody ever addressed. He should have been psychologically taken care of from the start, and especially during his teenage years, when unhealed trauma can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms and behaviours. Instead, the Jedi told him to let go of his past and not to take the path of fear and hatred, without ever explaining how he was supposed to do that. Instead, he got put under the care of someone who was just as emotionally immature and traumatised, and they were supposed to work this out on their own ?

Obi-Wan is not a bad Master, but he was probably not the best for Anakin at this point in his life. Anakin needed someone stable and able to help him, not someone in need of help himself. They grew up together, yes. They learned how to function together and became healthier in some ways in time, yes. They worked the best once they were equals, also yes. They considered the other as a brother/best friend/father figure and it helped them, still yes. The thing is, they didn't have a choice. They had to push through and bury all the traumas and move forward because life is like that and the Jedi life is especially based around those principles. But never talking about an issue doesn't fix it or make it magically disappear. A lot of things could be said about Obi-Wan's responsibility as well, but I think I already posted about this. (Briefly : lack of communication and denial for the most of it)

All of this to say that what's been broken in Anakin had never been repaired, and worse, ignored most of the time.

What better ground for an ill-advised person to work with ?

I've seen people refusing to acknowledge it, but you can call it as you want, the facts are : Anakin has been groomed his entire life by Palpatine and this is clearly shown in the movie. Compliments, gifts, manipulation, false empathy, establishment of a "friendship" and a trust bond for future exploitation purposes, they tick all the boxes. Palpatine plays on his lack of recognition and paranoia to get what he wants, literally all the time. He feeds his ego and establishes a very clever mistrust between Anakin and the only family he can count on. He carefully places seeds of doubt inside of his heart. He isolates him. He exploits his narcissistic tendencies. He constantly reminds him that he's better, stronger, more powerful because he's special, because he's the Chosen One. Allegedly. He also places himself as the one who sees the truth, the one who isn't corrupted and thus, who can be trusted when no one else can be. He's very very smart. And it works because Anakin is starving for attention, because he doesn't have a true father figure, because he feels wanted and important and useful. And because he never learnt (and nobody taught him) that you don't have to be useful to be loved. How could he, when his entire existence is actually based on being useful ? When he knows he's been created by the Force itself to kind of fix it someday ?

He has a completely distorted vision of his own value as a human being. It's either black or white. Actually, his whole perception of the world is rather black or white. He cruelly lacks nuance. This is also something you learn (or not in this fandom, apparently.)

That leads me to his own responsibility in his fall. I'm not saying all of this to diminish the role he had in his downfall, and even less to justify his actions. I'm just saying that we have to consider that several factors had an importance in the choices he made before, during and after turning to the dark side.

Having a shitty childhood full of unadressed/unhealed trauma is usually a common ground for people committing atrocities BUT all the people having a shitty childhood don't commit atrocities. Why ? Mostly because of the way they've been handled after that, because of their socio-economic background, of the support and care they received, because of their mental health and predisposition to resilience and a lot more factors psychologists could explain better than me. But also because at some point you have choices to make. And Anakin chose to make the wrong ones, every single time. What led him to those choices was partly conditioned by all the things we talked about, but ultimately, he was the one to decide. The one deciding to slaughter an entire village, the one deciding to betray and turn his back to his friends and mentors, the one deciding to hurt his pregnant wife and to pledge himself to his groomer. Ultimately, he was the one digging his own grave, but he's been given the tools to do it.

There are a lot more things to talk about, including the impact of the war on his psyche, Padme, his relationship with Obi-Wan and a potential mental disorder but I think this is getting way too long already

I'm sorry in advance for the typos, I wrote it in one go and didn't edit it, and also it's 3am. Hope you'll get my point at least aha

If you're still there, thank you for reading !

As always, I'm open to discussion 🫶🏻

[vers-kinky-asian]

Obedience on the Sand: Training with Master Walid

It was a bright, hot day on the beach as I arrived in my golden drone uniform, with my signature RM Williams boots. As soon as I changed into the Golden Team's beach volleyball uniform—topless, golden beach trunks clinging to me—I felt the sun hit my bare skin. Nervous, yet excited, I knew this was more than just practice. It was another lesson in my submission to Walid, one of the Golden Arab Masters.

The sun might have been shining bright, but my focus was entirely on him. Master Walid stood tall, muscular, and utterly commanding. As one of the Golden Arab Masters, his powerful Arab physique glistened in the sun—broad shoulders, toned arms, and the stance of a leader that reminded me who I truly served. Every move, every glance, screamed authority. His dark eyes locked onto mine, full of control, reminding me exactly where I belonged.

The game started, and I quickly realized it wasn't just volleyball—it was submission. I'm athletic, sure, but keeping up with Master Walid's effortless power and precision was near impossible. Each time he spiked the ball, I could feel his dominance overwhelm me, his strength undeniable. His commanding voice echoed through my thoughts, pushing me harder, reminding me no matter how much I tried, I could never match his dominance.

My body ached from the relentless heat, but the need to obey burned stronger. Even as my legs wobbled, each spike of the ball drove me deeper into submission. I wasn’t here to win; I was here to serve. I felt like a machine—a drone built for one purpose, to follow the orders of Master Walid.

During a break, I was almost relieved when he ordered me to kneel. As I dropped to my knees in the scorching sand, staring up at his imposing figure, my heart pounded. His body shimmered in the sunlight, a perfect reflection of the power he held over me. His control extended beyond the game, beyond the beach. His authority had infiltrated every aspect of my life. I could feel it—every decision, every action, all under his command.

"Who do you serve?" he asked, his voice calm but loaded with dominance.

"You, Master Walid," I replied, my voice barely a whisper.

His eyes, dark and piercing, locked onto mine. "Good. Never forget your place."

The heat of the sand beneath my knees was nothing compared to the fire burning inside me, a fire ignited by his control. He didn’t need to say anything else. His presence alone was enough to remind me of my role—his loyal gold drone.

As the day came to a close, Master Walid stood over me, a satisfied smirk on his face. He patted my shoulder, but the gesture wasn’t comforting—it was possessive. I wasn’t just his drone on the beach; I was his drone in life. Every order, every command, every moment in his presence only solidified that truth.

Exhausted from the physical exertion and mentally drained from the constant submission, I realized something crucial. This wasn’t just a game. It was obedience in its purest form. I wasn’t here to enjoy myself or show my athleticism. I was here to serve, to obey without question.

As I walked off the beach, drained yet fulfilled, I knew my purpose was clear. I wasn’t just part of the Golden Army—I was Master Walid's golden drone, built to serve him and the team, ready to follow his every command.

And with every step, every thought, one thing became more certain: this was my role, my destiny. I am, and always will be, his obedient golden drone.

Owned by @walidgoldpreppy

[thedevilsoftruth]

Romania, I'll Be Back

Chapter One: I learned about myself today

B. Barnes x f! Reader

Sum: Bucky Barnes escaped Hydra and fled the country to Romania. He finds moving in and trying to adjust to his new life difficult until he meets a baker who asks him if he wants a free sample of her famous dish.

Warnings: set after the events of CAWS. panic attacks, anxiety, love at first sight?? Mentions of Hydra, slightly sad themes. 3rd person pov.

Tags: @homiesexual-or-homosexual ( I love the username, btw )

W/c: 2.5k

A/n: I would like to give a big thanks to @shockercoco for being my beta reader for this chapter. I've been thinking of writing this for a very, very, very long time, and to be able to say that it's something that's actually happening now makes me very happy. Please enjoy. I have a lot planned for this fic.

Entry 1,

I ran. Really far. I ran and ran, and I couldn't stop. My feet kept carrying me, and I didn't stop until I fled the country. I took buses, trains, anything, anywhere--I didn't care. I needed to get out of there.

And here I am. Safe. Finally, I hope.

It had been nonstop storming where I had been, but the skies here were clear today, so that's nice.

I found an apartment, finally.

I don't think I can rest my head fully after visiting that museum. But I needed to see it, and it's because I saw it that I learned about myself today. A few things, actually.

The museum said I was a sergeant during WWII? I don't feel like a sergeant. Sergeants are strong and good leaders. They have good hearts. I do not.

And Steve? I'm curious about him, really. I don't think we will ever meet again, and if we do, I think he'd be really upset with me. I think there are a lot of people out there who are upset with me. But that's okay. I'm not too happy with myself, either.

I went to that museum today to learn about Steve, but instead, I learned about myself. I guess that's good. I still don't even know who I am.

Anyway, I have a thumping headache, and my anxiety is through the roof. I think I'm going to go lay down, but I will be back.

-- James Buchanan Barnes.

...Or Bucky.

Bucharest, Romania 2016

It had been a day since Bucky had moved into his apartment. All of his "unpacking" was done on the same day he moved in, not that he had anything at all to unpack in the first place. His first thought when he had woken up that morning was that he needed new clothes. And gloves.

Gloves would be crucial for him if he didn't want to be given any funny looks with his metal arm out in public, or worse: be found by Hydra.

When he went out that evening, he had on a simple black button-down and dark blue denim jeans that might have been a bit too big on him. Sizing charts were something he wasn't expecting to look out for at the time he bought the jeans. He wore a baseball hat to hide his face and had on his backpack. The backpack was more of a home to him than his apartment.

The apartment was cheap and worn down, but the backpack carried everything he needed–Cash, a few weapons, the old dog tags he found a long time ago as the winter solider that he was somehow able to hide from hydra for the many years he had it. It also held his journal–the most important item.

The journal would act as a guide to him in case he somehow found himself losing his memories again. He was hoping he would fill it with more memories once they came back to him.

He didn't know where he was going. He wasn't familiar with the layout of the area he was living in, but he thought that if he had stayed near the apartment complex, he'd be able to find it again quickly. At this point in his life, his biggest fear was losing himself again and forgetting things.

As he crossed the street and walked down the sidewalk near a train station, he passed by beggars, buyers, musicians, and other pedestrians just trying to get to where they needed without bothering anyone.

It was the middle of the day, and as Bucky passed by people cooking things on the street, he realized he hadn't eaten all day. He couldn't remember the last time he ate something that wasn't liquidized. Maybe he had his last actual meal in the 40s? The day he fell off the train, he hoped. Every day before that, he also hoped.

Food places should have been easy to find, but it was hard for him to know what he really wanted. He didn't even know what kind of food he liked. He walked by at least three different restaurants until he came across a little stand selling a variety of produce items. Tomatoes, grapes, cabbage, bananas, you name it, and it was there.

He looked through the assortment with his backpack slung over his shoulder for easier access to his cash in case he actually did buy something.

He had his eyes on a certain fruit–They were little purple balls that were no bigger than his fist. He had noticed a few people around the stand with the fruit in their hands. They were golden inside, and they looked incredibly juicy. Bucky could feel his mouth watering at the idea of it.

" How much for 2 of these? " He asked the clerk, picking up two of the purple fruits from the bamboo basket they were settled in.

The clerk, short, chubby and older with streaks of silver running down his dark curled hair, gave him a quick glance.

" For the plums? " The clerk asked him, looking between the basket and Bucky.

Plums. So that's what they were called. Bucky nodded his head at the old man, unzipping the front pocket of his backpack.

" 30 ron. " The clerk told him, clicking a pen open in his shirt. Bucky rummaged through his bag and fished out 3 sets of 10 ron and gave them to the clerk. He was given a tiny white plastic bag for his fruit, and the second he was given them, he was rushing back to his apartment complex.

That was Bucky's first time purchasing plums in Romania, and from that day forward they would become his favorite fruit.

--

Bucky had a simple objective; go in, grab some plums--maybe some bread too, then get out.

But god no. He'd barely even been there for about a minute, and he was already overstimulated.

It was the first day of the town's local homemade goods market, and the event was going on for about two weeks. It was just a little thing they did; where small businesses came together to share what they sell for slightly cheaper prices. That was the synopsis of the paper he picked up and read on his way home the day before. The produce shop Bucky had bought his newfound favorite fruit day before was going to have a stand in the little market. Or so he thought.

He could not for the life of himself find the shop he was looking for. He walked and walked along the market in hurried repeating circles, looking up and down for the stand, but he just could not find it! Perhaps they weren't set up yet? Maybe the owner got sick?

He wondered anxiously about the infinite possibilities of what could have happened. He didn't see the shop open when he passed by where it was the day before on the street.

He wasn't leaving the damn place until he bought his stupid plums!!

As Bucky walked past the crowd in the street, he bumped into at least four people as he searched for the stand. He was just so annoyed and upset about the whole situation. Maybe he'd try again tomorrow?

Great. Tck. How freaking great.

His gloved hands gripped the white bag full of bread he was holding tighter, and he turned his heel to walk back to where he came in. As he made his way up to the front, he was getting more and more irritated by the second.

His chest felt heavy all of a sudden. a dark cloud of anxiety began circling above his head before it violently started pouring down conflicting emotions and memories that had nothing to do with each other. He didn't understand why he felt so panicked all of a sudden, but what he did understand was that all he wanted was to go home.

But right as he was about to leave, he heard a voice speaking to him as he held his head down and walked towards the exit.

It was a soft voice. A rather quiet one that didn't quite fit with the loudness and chaos of the rest of the market. Yet, it was a voice so beautiful and pleasing to his buzzing ears that it made him stop in his tracks immediately and turn his head to where he believed it was coming from.

" Would you like a free sample, sir? " The voice said. When he raised his head, he made the figure out to be a woman, standing in front of him with a red apron around her waist and a tray in her hands. It turned out that the voice matched the face.

She was beautiful, and that was the first thought he had when he laid his eyes on her. She was so tiny, it was like she could fit within the palm of his hand, and her smile was softest one he'd ever seen in his life.

He didn't know why, but he found himself frozen. Unmoving and still.

" These are my famous plum dumplings. " She told him, holding the little round battered dessert that was set in a tiny white paper cup.

His eyes flicked from her, to the desert, then back at her face. He was unsure whether or not he was allowed to take it. She noticed his hesitation, and she suddenly felt bad for putting him on the spot. He looked like he had places he needed to be, after all.

" Are you not interested? " She asked, her smile all of a sudden a frown that sent his mind into a panic.

He began stammering, shaking his head frantically. " No--I--sorry I--" He blinked, holding his hands out and waving them chaotically. He took a moment to gather himself together, his chest heaving up and down as his panicked mind searched for the next words to say and how he could frame them correctly.

" I would like one. " He told her, his eyes repeatedly flicking from her to the gravel on the concrete. He held out his shaking gloved hand nervously, and when she put the tiny pastry in his palm, he almost flinched like she was going to hurt him. He knew she wasn't a threat, but he might be one.

She looked at him with a growing smile as he picked up the round pastry from its holder. He was an interesting fella to her. She'd only known him for barely a minute, and he was already her most interesting customer that day–By far the most handsome, too.

As he bit into the pastry, she waited in anticipation to see his nervous frown turn into a delighted smile. And to her surprise, it did not take long for that to happen. The moment the tip of his tongue came into the soft, sugary, and crunchy taste of the dumpling, his eyes fluttered shut, and a pleased moan left his lips.

" It's good, isn't it? " She asked, tilting her head to the side while leaning into him a bit.

Bucky found himself smiling rather foolishly as he wiped the crumbs from the corner of his mouth.

" It is. " He responded almost robotically, his voice coming out scratchy and pitched from his lack of speaking during the day.

The cute baker didn't realize it, but her cheeks were glowing with a light tinge of pink. It looked good on her, and Bucky couldn't stop himself from catching her eye. It was the first time during their entire encounter when the eye contact didn't feel awkward.

" Sorry, " he chuckled, looking down at his feet once he realized he had been looking at her too long. " I don't get out of the house often. " He said, rubbing the back of his neck with his left hand, his right holding the remaining half of his pastry.

" That's alright. " She told him. " But I hope to see you back again tomorrow or some time soon. " Now it was time for her gaze to fall on her feet, and for his gaze to fall on her face. He looked at her for as long as he could, trying to memorize every detail of her for the next time he would come back.

" Yeah, yeah." He whispered under his breath mindlessly. " Me too. "

She lifted her gaze, and their eyes met once more. She searched him, and he searched her. They didn't quite know what it was, but they felt drawn together somehow. The path that was set for the both of them differed drastically.

They were two strangers who met on a chain of very unlikely events that somehow got laid out in a very strange yet perfect way. It was almost like they should have never met in the beginning because their stories were so different, but like people always say, ' everything happens for a reason. '

For several moments, they stared at each other, unsure why they were staring but certain that it could mean something. That was until she had broken up the silence.

" I just realized I never got your name. " She told him, squinting her eyes at him, fiddling with her fingers rather anxiously.

Bucky stumbled over himself for a moment, her words breaking him out of his dazed trance. He suddenly became embarrassed by how long he had been staring at her.

" I--Its Bucky. " He told her, sheepishly averting his gaze from her. She nodded her head. Not only was he an interesting fella, but he had an interesting name. She gave him her own name, and once he had it, he was on his toes to zoom out of the place due to how fast his heart was beating. He could feel sweat beading at his forehead.

" So, mister Bucky, " She began in a rather cheesy sense, " See you sometime soon? Have a nice day. "

Her words were making him feel such strange things, things he was sure he hadn't felt at least since the 40s. He had no idea how to handle things, and he exhaled deeply to try and calm himself down.

He didn't look at her at all for the rest of the time he was there with her. If he looked at her, he was going to fall in love. And Bucky Barnes didn't know how to fall in love. At least not anymore.

" Yeah, yeah. " He muttered, pursing his lips and running his gloved hands down his thighs. " I'll be back. "

And just like that, he was off, speed walking as fast as he could to get out of there before something terrible happened.

As he walked back to his apartment, his mind kept racing and spiraling. He was dealing with the worst conflicting emotions he had ever had in his years. He couldn't go back. He just couldn't. Bucky knew that all good things come to an end, and whenever he would ever get the smallest bit of something good In his life, it would be snatched out of his hands before he could be able to savor it.

But even though he told himself that he wouldn’t go back the next day, when he woke up, he couldn't seem to get his feet to stop.

Maybe that was a good thing? no. It was the best thing he could have done because that one singular decision he made would change his entire life. He just didn't know it yet, and neither did you.

[ikamigami]

I don't know if anyone ever mentioned this before but I think that it's really important that Circus' habitants don't remember their real names..

Name is crucial part to one's identity so when we don't remember our name what happens then?

Or let's look at many references to Bible that show has..

Many Apostles received a new name when they followed Christ..

And our Circus' habitants also received new names and Cain is considered a god of the Circus..

I wonder what would happen if one of characters one day remembered their name.. would the Circus break?

Or maybe nothing would happen.. or just maybe it just won't ever happen xnnxnxnnxnx

But I think that this is important.. all names have meaning behind them so them not remembering their real names and receiving new ones has to mean something, right?

If the Circus' habitants are tormented by their own trauma and we know that Jax deserves to be there the most.. maybe them losing their real names is also symbolic of them being stripped away from their identities..

Maybe they're really in hell..

Or maybe they're in purgatory..

I'm spitballing right now bxbxnxnxn

Anyway another thing that I realized after seeing that other people think that Pomni might be a reference to Russian word "Помни" that reads the same way and means "to remember"..

And Kinger told Pomni that it's okay that he'll forget because Pomni will still remember..

And I think that this is also important.. I think that if someone will one day remember their real name it'd be Pomni..

Other characters names probably have also important meanings but for now I'm too tired to think more about it..

[ttjisung]

back 2 u 𝜗𝜚

p. jisung x fem!reader smau - exes to lovers

in which jisung does his best to avoid you, his ex, until he realizes his mistake far too late cw: suggestive themes, bad angst, cheating, swearing

i'm not going back, back, back, back, back

masterlist

previous next

chapter xi. (wc: 2.1k + social media near the end)

Renjun had a plan, and it wasn’t going to be easy. According to his conversation with Dejun, it was crucial to find proof of Jaemin’s misdeeds before informing their mutual friends - yet finding a time alone with said boy’s phone would be near impossible, considering there’d be a large sum of people in his apartment. 

After a while of organizing a scheme during his late night hours, Renjun had settled with mistaking his bag with Jaemin’s, and taking it into the bathroom to quickly shoot a video of his shared messages with Jisung. There were two flaws in this plan: Renjun had no bag that could be nearly mistaken with Jaemin’s incredibly unique and decorated tote, and even if he was able to jump over this hurdle eventually, he was not aware of his password. That being said, Jaemin was extremely predictable when it came to those things, so he assumed it’d be something along the lines of the anniversary of getting his cats. 

Regardless of whether he was ready or not, Renjun was insistent on getting this evidence, feeling insanely guilty for the way he treated you. It didn’t entirely hit him until he saw you at a mall and waved at you, causing you to flinch and frown once you located him, that he realized how much he must’ve hurt you, and he knew he’d have to start working immediately to gain your forgiveness if he was to ever make up for his actions. You two had such a deep bond before the mishap, and he wasn’t willing to forget it so easily as he had before. Using that as encouragement, Renjun was prepared when the sun came and he was setting up snacks. 

Jisung was the first to come, having a lot of spare time since your breakup, considering he was attached to your hip before. After him was Jeno, then Donghyuck, then lastly Jaemin. The rest had informed him earlier on that they’d be unavailable, which served as a breath of relief, because he knew it’d be harder to sneak around with two other nosy individuals watching his every move. 

“I have to use the bathroom, but can you guys continue setting up in the kitchen? Leave your stuff here, I don’t want a mess on the table.” Renjun tried with all his might to appear unsuspicious, and it worked mostly since he had a very neutral tone, yet he missed one flaw in his plan - Donghyuck could not follow directions if his life depended on it. While the rest of the guys headed into the kitchen, Renjun took the green light to grab Jaemin’s bag, and he felt pride swell up at his success until a voice interrupted him. “What are you doing with his bag, Jun?” The voice was inquisitive, noticing how unusual it was for Renjun to confuse his own belongings. 

“Oh, umm.. I just… There’s something I forgot… Umm-” “Don’t lie to me. Fess up.” “Fine, but you have to come into the bathroom with me.” “Are you flirting with me? I never thought this day would come-” Donghyuck’s quirky remark was stopped by Renjun pulling him by the ear. 

“Okay. You have to promise to not blow my cover or snitch about any of this, it’ll ruin everything.” Donghyuck simply nodded, encouraging the older male to continue. “Dejun contacted me…” “That loser? Really?” “New rule. Don’t interrupt either. Anyway, he basically proved Y/n’s innocence to me. I know you’re like dead set on hating her and trust me, I was too, but they genuinely had all the proof necessary.” Donghyuck’s eyes widened at the revelation, almost in a shocked trance as he recalled all of his cruel words, yet Renjun continued. “Someone framed her, and all signs point to Jaemin. I knew from the beginning that he kind of had his eye on her, right? But I never knew it was this bad. Dejun told me he told Y/n that he and Jisung were fighting, which is a lie, and so Dejun told me to record his messages with Jisung to show her proof that he’s lying. After that, I’m allowed to tell you all that Y/n didn’t cheat. They already have a plan to confront Jaemin.” 

The scene in front of Renjun was not one he was expecting - tears ran down Donghyuck’s closed eyes, and he quickly sniffled, raising his hand to wipe his cheeks. “Renjun… It’s… It’s all my fault, shit. He told me! I swear he showed me a photo… But I didn’t know…” “It’s okay, Hyuck. Calm down. What are you talking about?” “Jaemin! He showed me a photo of Y/n supposedly cheating, and I told Jisung, but now that I think about it - it probably wasn’t her, she just had similar hair. Fuck, she’s going to hate me. She probably already does… All I’ve done is tear her down and accuse her online.. Renjun, what do I do?” His desperation was obvious as he kept crying, reaching out to grab his friend’s arms and plead. “Help me distract Jaemin, Hyuck. It’s the best way you can help prove she’s innocent, and once we do this we can all apologize.” Renjun’s words were enough to make Donghyuck calm down and nod, rushing out of the bathroom to do as he was instructed. 

Once he left, Renjun was quick to pull out his own phone, recording Jaemin’s messages with Jisung. Unsurprisingly, his password was his cats’ anniversary. Not even bothering to read them all, he just caught glimpses of the shared words, and it was clear to see Jaemin was lying. The feeling of hope surged in his body, knowing this would definitely be enough to both clear your name and prove to Jisung that you were innocent. The hope was diminished a bit, remembering Dejun’s words - you weren’t looking for Jisung’s forgiveness anymore, and the feelings you felt for him were no longer positive. 

He thought back to the day after the breakup, when he was at Jisung’s apartment and you had left gifts at his doorstep. The fact that you were innocent throughout that exchange, and this could’ve been communicated earlier, as he assumed the letter you left was your attempt at explaining yourself, made his grief grow. Maybe if Jisung had known at that time, you would’ve gladly taken him back, yet it appeared that wasn’t an option anymore. 

Nonetheless, you deserved to be apologized to, and Renjun was planning on helping this occur, so he swiped up until it was undebatable that you were being lied to, and after doing so, he snuck back into the living room, slipping the phone back into Jaemin’s bag and making a grand appearance in the kitchen. 

It was truly hard to not make a scene right then and there, confronting the male, yet he knew it would be much more satisfying for you if you and your friends did so, so he held back, acting like nothing happened.

Throwing a glance at Donghyuck, who appeared to recover from his sobbing moment quickly, he nodded his head as to let him know he had succeeded, and a small grin grew on Donghyuck’s face. The rest of the night went as planned, yet every time either of the two interacted with Jaemin, there was a small disdain. On one side, Jaemin was their best friend and they had grown up together, yet on the other, he clearly didn’t value friendship as he was quick to throw away Jisung’s happiness, alongside yours, for his own selfish motives, so with all the strength Renjun could muster, he continued his plan until the very end. Once the night had ended and the boys had all left, he picked up his phone, navigating to his messages with Dejun and sending the video, in which he strategically clicked on Jaemin’s contact at the last minute, to make sure there was no excuse he could use, such as saying it wasn’t his number and the profile was fake. His part of plan was finally finished, and it was up to Dejun and Yangyang to take over now.

It was around midnight when a knock on your door disturbed your sleep. You had assumed, being as late as it was, that it must be a friend in an emergency, so you gathered yourself before approaching the door, yet as you checked through the peephole, the guest was not who you had expected.

“Donghyuck? What are you doing here?” With no verbal answer, the male quickly approached you and took you by shock by embracing you in a hug. Your eyes widened and you failed to reciprocate the affection, feeling uncomfortable instead of the usual warmth you once experienced with him. After a while of his embrace, he realized you weren’t accepting his hug and stepped back, and the tears came back concerningly quick.

“Y/nie,” he started with the nickname he used to address you by, which brought back several memories, yet the shell you had grown took over once more, refusing to find comfort in what he was saying, “I’m so, so sorry. You have to believe me… I didn’t know.” Putting two and two together, you gathered that he was unconsciously addressing the elephant in the room - he was aware, now, that you hadn’t cheated. 

You should’ve felt angry, honestly. You should’ve kicked him out of your apartment and cussed him out before slamming the door on his face, yet all you could feel was sorrow. Sorrow for how quickly he abandoned your friendship, sorrow for the fact that it took him this long to realize you weren’t capable of cheating, and sorrow for the fact that you couldn’t find it in yourself to forgive him. You weren’t mad at him, you were simply disappointed, and this disappointment prohibited your mind from allowing him back in, so you shook your head at his words, taking a step back into your familiar living room. 

His eyes faltered as he noticed you weren’t accepting what he was saying, and his desperation grew once more as he stepped forward, trying to follow you, yet you stopped him with an arm to his chest. “Donghyuck…” He flinched at the tone in which you said his name, also noticing that you didn’t call him Hyuck as you once did, yet he didn’t believe it was at his liberty to ask you to, so he let you continue. “I don’t know how you found out but… But I don’t want you guys coming over here please. I assume you all know now… and I don’t want to see you. Any of you. Please understand where I’m coming from… I’m not mad, I just… We aren’t friends anymore, you made that clear, so please leave. And tell the others to not come either.” Donghyuck’s tears increased at your words, and a part of you would find this scene humorous - he wasn’t even the one who broke up with you yet he seemed so torn by what you said - had you not been so miserable at the current situation. 

“Y/n, please. I… I get why you don’t want to see us, but we’re all so, so sorry, and we want to make it up to you. I know why you said we aren’t friends - none of us have treated you like one, but we can make it up to you and we will.. Please… Jisung loves you and I know when he finds out, he’s going to feel so horrible, and he’s going to seek you out. If you can’t forgive us, please at least listen to him.” Donghyuck didn’t miss the way you lightly flinched at the mention of your ex, and it was then that you began to cry as well, mirroring him. “No.” Your tone was hushed, almost a whisper as you shook your head, “I tried… I did… He ignored me, he called me a whore Donghyuck! I don’t want to see him please… Don’t tell him the truth, I’d rather he think I cheated. He doesn’t love me, because he doesn’t trust me at all… You get that, right? We were together for years, yet at a mere mention of me being supposedly unfaithful he… he left me… You can’t love someone and not trust them.” Your words were rambled and the tears grew tenfold, “Please go. I have to go to sleep-” “Y/nie, please…” “I have to sleep. Please don’t tell him. Goodnight.” Not letting him continue to plead, you stepped back and closed the door in front of the male, staring at the darkness of your living room in shock for a few minutes, before falling to your knees against the door, and it was only then that you began to sob loudly, hiding your face in your arms. 

The only thought flooding your mind was the pitiful question, repeated over and over again, until you grew tired from crying and eventually fell asleep in the uncomfortable position. Why did it take him this long to understand how much you loved him? You would’ve trusted him… 

a/n: haechan's part lowkey reminded me of my ex so i spiraled into our old messages and cried to sienna gosh its so hard being a lover girl in this world </3 (don't take me seriously this was months ago and i've moved on... mostly...)

this isn't as long as i thought itd be please forgive me guys... i'll be posting the next chapter soon :3 and it will be so ANSGTY! possible jisung y/n reunion (not dating lol i hope no one's hopes are high cause i'm dragging this outttt) but at what cost?

i'm working on a taglist bc one of you beautiful readers helped me tysm!!! so that will be done soon >.< let me know if you want to be on it in the notes or in my inbox <3 i'll add everyone who's asked so far

anyway... i will dedicate this chapter to all the readers who have also been heart broken... i hope we all heal. for now i personally heal by fangirling over nct because they've helped me sm ^_^ so expect a LOT more fics and smaus to come >:3

[differentpostrebel]

Lost and Found: A Pirate’s Promise

Chapter 10: Navigating the Unknown: Destination Punk Hazard 

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 (Here)

AN: Chapter 10 is finally here! Im not gonna lie Im inspired to continue to write more so Chapter 11 might get dropped early today! This is a relatively short chapter. But its needed for the plot. Like always the chapters are all linked! And without further ado, heres chapter 10. 

Y/N is an established pirate and a formidable warrior, with the third highest bounty in the Straw Hat crew. She's not just another member; her strength and skills have earned her a respected spot among the crew.

Sanji, our favorite lovesick cook, falls head over heels for Y/N almost immediately. True to his nature, he tries every trick in the book to catch her attention, from cooking her favorite meals to showering her with compliments. On the other hand, Y/N may have a small crush on Sanji, but she’s cautious and focused on her goals as a pirate.

As the story progresses, that small crush gradually blossoms into something more profound, but their journey together won't be easy. With the chaos of the New World looming, the dangers they face will test their bond and loyalty to each other. Will their love be strong enough to survive the trials ahead, or will the perils of their pirate life tear them apart?

Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster filled with angst, action, and a dash of romance. I'm thrilled to take you on this adventure with Y/N, Sanji, and the rest of the Straw Hat crew!

Word Count: 2.8K

Sanji x Y/N, OP X Reader, Sanji x Reader

Chapter 10: Navigating the Unknown: Destination Punk Hazard 

Our journey to Fishman Island was both rewarding and crucial, as we uncovered key information that will shape our adventure ahead. The island faced a major upheaval as an anti-human faction of fishmen, led by Hordy Jones, ignited a rebellion to stop cooperation between merfolk and humans. Fortunately, Luffy managed to defeat Hordy, and we took down the New Fishman Pirates, restoring peace to the island.

Robin discovered a crucial Poneglyph that revealed the tale of Joy Boy and his ancient promise to the royal family of Fishman Island. It also spoke of Poseidon, an ancient weapon, which turned out to be none other than Princess Shirahoshi herself, possessing the incredible power to command the Sea Kings.

After the dust settled, Luffy offered Jimbei a spot in our crew, but Jimbei declined, explaining his need to first sever ties with the Big Mom. Meanwhile, the rebellion had caused significant damage, including the destruction of the candy factory, which left Fishman Island unable to fulfill its monthly candy quota to Big Mom. In response, Luffy stepped in to protect the island from her wrath. When Big Mom herself made contact, Luffy boldly declared, "I'm ready to kick your ass!" and hung up the transponder snail with confidence. I placed a hand on his shoulder and told him, "This is going to be a good fight, Captain."

After freeing Fishman Island from Hordy’s grip, Neptune and the royal family threw us a grand celebratory banquet. But, I know what some of you are wondering—what about me and Sanji? Well, the truth is, Sanji didn't exactly live up to his promise. Not only did he flirt with almost every mermaid in sight, but he also went as far as turning to stone for the Princess herself!

Sanji was pulling his usual stunts on all the women, completely forgetting the promise he made to me. I had to pull him aside and tell him, "Sanji, it's clear you can't control yourself. Maybe it's better if we just stay friends instead of being in a relationship."

Sanji, of course, wasn't thrilled with that idea. He looked at me, his eyes wide with shock. "But Y/N, I— I can change! Please, just give me another chance."

I sighed, trying to keep my voice calm. "Sanji, it's not about changing who you are. But if you can prove to me that you can control yourself, that you can keep your promises... then maybe, just maybe, I'll give you another chance."

Sanji's eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. "You mean it, Y/N? I'll do whatever it takes, I swear."

I nodded, though there was a part of me that remained cautious. "Actions speak louder than words, Sanji. Show me that you can keep your word, and we'll see where things go."

Sanji opened his mouth to say something else but I could tell this decision weighed heavily on him.

Now, as we set sail for Punk Hazard, I find myself sitting with Zoro, sharing some sake and venting about what happened with Sanji.

"I just don’t get it, Zoro," I say, taking a swig from my cup. "He promised, you know? But then he went right back to his old ways like it didn’t mean anything."

Zoro smirks, his eyes sharp as he refills our cups. "That's just how the cook is. Can't keep his nose out of trouble, especially when it comes to women. But if you ask me, you’re better off not getting tangled up in all that."

I nod, appreciating his straightforwardness. "Yeah, maybe you're right. Just feels like a mess, you know?"

Zoro takes a long sip, his gaze shifting to the horizon. "Stick to what matters—fighting and getting stronger. Everything else is just noise. Besides, you deserve someone who won’t make you feel like an idiot, Y/N."

His words hit me harder than I expected, leaving me momentarily speechless. I looked at him, but he just stared ahead, as if what he said was the most obvious thing in the world.

I let his words settle in, the truth of them resonating deeply. Maybe he was right. Maybe I did deserve better—someone who wouldn't make me second-guess myself, someone who wouldn't break promises. I stayed quiet, just letting what Zoro said stay with me as we sailed onward toward whatever challenges awaited us at Punk Hazard.

Just then, I overhear Nami on the other end of the ship, her voice tinged with concern as she talks to Franky. “There’s something seriously wrong about this place. The fish are dead!” she says, her tone rising with alarm. “They’re all bone!”

Brook, ever the optimist, chimes in with his usual humor. “And what’s wrong with that, hmmm?” He laughs, his skeletal form perfectly matching the description. The absurdity of the situation makes me chuckle, and I was about to take another sip of the sake when a distressing sound interrupts us—a cry of someone in distress.

“You guys, check this out!” Luffy’s voice echoes through the hall, filled with curiosity. “Looks like the transponder snail picked up a signal,” says Sanji, who had just walked in. He notices me entering with Zoro beside me and quickly looks away, his earlier bravado deflated.

“What’s wrong, buddy?” Luffy asks the transponder snail, already itching to take action. “Should I pick it up and see if they need help?”

“Wait, Luffy,” Robin interjects, her voice calm but firm. “This is often a trick used by the Navy to lure pirates. Once you pick up, they can pinpoint your signal and launch a surprise attack.”

But, in true Luffy fashion, he doesn’t hesitate. Before anyone can stop him, he picks up the call, leaving all of us stunned. “My name is Monkey D. Luffy, and I’m going to be King of the Pirates!” he declares with unwavering determination.

Usopp and Nami immediately smack him on the head, yelling in unison, “Don’t tell them all that!”

The voice on the other end of the transponder snail is weak and filled with desperation. “Someone help! Please, it’s cold! We need Boss! My friends are getting cut down! One after another! The Samurai is going to kill us!”

“Where are you?” Luffy demands, his concern evident as he grips the snail tighter.

“Please, hurry! We’re on the island… Punk Hazard,” the voice continues, before it ends in a chilling scream, followed by the sickening sound of gurgling blood.

The room falls silent as we all process what we just heard. I exchange a glance with Zoro, my heart racing.

Luffy, now hanging up the call, says with a grin, "Hmm, sounds like trouble is brewing out there."

Usopp’s face pales as he waves his hands frantically. "What do you mean, trouble?! He’s dead! That scream... it wasn't acting!"

Robin crosses her arms, her expression calm yet cautious. "Maybe he was acting, and this could be a trap. The Navy isn’t above using desperate measures to catch pirates."

"Whatever it is, it doesn't seem good," I add, glancing at the group. The uneasy atmosphere is palpable as we all look towards the flames rising from the distant island, the seawater connected to an icy landscape. The contrast is eerie, foreboding.

"The guy mentioned Punk Hazard," Franky speaks up, his mechanical eye zooming in on the island. "You think this is the place?"

Robin nods, her gaze fixed on the distant shore. "Most definitely. Those transponder snails have limited range, so it’s likely we’re close."

“Let’s fight through the fire and help him!” Luffy cheers, already fired up for the challenge ahead.

I glance around, seeing the worry etched on everyone’s faces. The unknown is always the scariest part, but Luffy’s infectious energy makes it hard not to feel a bit braver. Despite the fear in the air, Luffy just laughs, confident as ever, as we approach the ominous island of Punk Hazard.

But as we near the island, none of us could have known that another enemy was also making their way to Punk Hazard

Marine G-5: 

“My name is Monkey D. Luffy, and I’m going to be King of the Pirates!” “Dont tell him that!” “Were on the island.. Punk Hazard!! We dont have much time left!” 

Tashigi’s eyes widened as she recognized the voice. “That’s Luffy!” she exclaimed, her hand tightening on the hilt of her sword.

“Punk Hazard, huh?” Vice-Admiral Smoker muttered, looking down at his log pose. His face was serious, but there was a flicker of something close to satisfaction in his eyes. “Damn, not the most ideal place, but at least we know where the Straw Hats ended up.”

He paused, thinking back to the recent events. “Makes sense, considering the battle at Fishman Island. But the real question is: did they answer that call for help, or did they move on?”

Tashigi looked up at him, awaiting orders. Smoker’s expression hardened as he made his decision. “Tashigi, set course for Punk Hazard.” 

Smoker turned to his men, his voice booming with authority. “Alright, men! Get ready—we’re heading to Punk Hazard!

Back to the Thousand Sunny: 

Sanji lit a cigarette, exhaling slowly as he addressed the group. "So… how many of us are going to the island? We don’t know what we’re dealing with, so some of us should stay and guard the ship."

Luffy, always eager for adventure, turned to Franky. "Franky, I need the Mini Merry!"

Franky gave a thumbs up, grinning. "Gotcha, Luffy!"

Nami, however, wasn’t having it. "Are you crazy?! You aren’t going alone!"

“I agree with Nami,” you chimed in, giving Luffy a concerned look. “You can’t go by yourself, Luffy.”

Luffy, unbothered, looked around and caught your eye. “You want to come, Y/N? That’s fine with me.”

Before you could answer, Sanji cut in, his tone sharper than usual. "No!" Everyone turned to look at him, surprised by his outburst. He quickly cleared his throat, trying to play it off. "I mean, if we let Captain Belly Warmer over here"—he pointed at Zoro—"go with Luffy, they’d be lost for days."

Zoro shot Sanji a glare. "What did you say, Curly-brow? At least I’m not some lovesick cook who can’t focus when there’s a pretty face around!"

Sanji’s eyebrow twitched in irritation. "Oh yeah? Say that again, Mosshead, and I’ll kick you all the way to the island myself!"

The two of them started bickering, getting right in each other’s faces, neither one willing to back down. It was the usual heated exchange, with insults flying back and forth as if it was a sport.

Nami, rolling her eyes, decided to put an end to the chaos. "I knew it would come to this. Everybody, draw straws!"

With that, she pulled out a bundle of straws, each with a single red line on one of them. Everyone gathered around, drawing their straws one by one. You pulled yours out and looked at it—no red line.

"Man, I really wanted to go too," you pouted, disappointed.

Zoro smirked, leaning back with his arms crossed. "You’re going to miss out on the fun!"

Robin, standing nearby, gave a small, mysterious smile. "This should be fun indeed," she said, her eyes glinting with curiosity and amusement.

Usopp, on the other hand, looked like he was already regretting his luck, holding the straw with the red line. "Why is it always me?!" he groaned, clearly not as excited about the upcoming adventure as the others.

Luffy, completely unfazed by the tension and excitement, just laughed. "Alright, let’s go! Adventure awaits!"

As the Mini Merry was prepared, the crew made their final checks, each one gearing up for whatever awaited them on Punk Hazard. You waved them goodbye, a mix of excitement and concern in your expression. "Good luck out there! And try not to die!"

Nami nodded in agreement, her usual worry showing through. "Yeah, don’t do anything reckless!"

Chopper chimed in, waving both of his tiny hooves. "Be careful! And make sure to come back in one piece!"

Franky, with his usual enthusiasm, gave them a hearty thumbs-up. "You guys got this! Just remember, the Mini Merry is SUPER, so take care of her!"

Brook, ever the optimist, added with a laugh, "Come back alive, everyone! Yohohoho!"

And Sanji, standing beside you, looked back at the departing Mini Merry with a soft smile. "Goodbye, everyone. Stay safe out there!

As the Mini Merry began to disappear into the flames, you could feel the heat intensifying, and your cropped shirt was starting to cling uncomfortably to your skin. Turning to Nami, you asked, "Do you have anything cooler to wear? It’s getting pretty hot out here."

Nami glanced at you with a knowing smirk. "Yes, I do. Come with me!"

Sanji, who had been nearby, looked over with an enthusiastic grin. "Sanji, can you get us something cool to drink?" you requested.

Sanji swooned dramatically. "Of course, ladies! I’ll whip up something refreshing!" He headed toward the kitchen with his usual flair.

Nami led you to her room, where she handed you a light blue mini corset that left little to the imagination. You hesitated for a moment but then put it on, feeling the coolness of the fabric against your skin. You decided to stick with your skirt and ankle boots, opting to create a tight ponytail to keep your hair from sticking to your sweaty neck.

When you and Nami reappeared in the common area, Sanji emerged from the kitchen with a tray of drinks. His eyes widened as he saw you in the new attire, and he stopped mid-sentence. "Ladies, I bring you a nice cool, delicious—" He trailed off, clearly taken aback by your appearance.

Nami chuckled softly beside you. "Looks like Sanji’s lost his words."

Sanji quickly regained his composure, though his cheeks were slightly flushed. "Uh, right, right. Here are the drinks! They should help you cool off."

You took the offered drink, trying to ignore the heat on your cheeks from both the weather and the attention. "Thanks, Sanji. This is just what we needed."

As you and Nami shared a drink with Chopper, the conversation shifted to the unusual clouds in the sky.

"You guys see that?" Nami asked, her gaze fixed upwards.

Chopper squinted. "I don’t see anything."

"Yeah, what about the clouds?" you chimed in, your curiosity piqued. "Something seems off."

Just then, a strange, chemical smell hit you, causing you to wrinkle your nose. "You guys smell that?" you asked, struggling to stay conscious.

"Yeah, it's making me a bit sleepy," Chopper admitted, his voice growing drowsy.

Before you could react further, your vision started to blur, and you felt an overwhelming wave of fatigue. You crumpled to the ground, unable to keep your eyes open. Sanji tried to reach you, but soon he, along with Brook, Franky, Nami, and Chopper, were all succumbing to the same mysterious force.

As darkness closed in, you caught a glimpse of men in suits with hazmat gloves and masks approaching. One of them crouched down beside you and spoke softly, "Master, we found the intruders. We are taking them to the base now."

With those final words echoing in your ears, you felt the last vestiges of consciousness slip away, and the world faded into darkness.

.

.

.

.

We have now entered Punk Hazard!!! Sanji and Y/N decided to not pursue anything after Fishman island. But don't you guys worry our favorite lovesick cook will redeem himself! I have faith! Gotta trust the process! But the upcoming chapters will be cooking! Once we hit Whole Cake Island along with Wano!! Ohh the plans that I have! But for now Sanji has to prove himself! And Zoro coming in with advice like that (Hmmm wonder why?! heheheh) I'm actually going to start on chapter 11 tonight because I'm on a roll with these chapters. Who knows there might be a surprise drop tonight also… Thank you guys for following along! Along with sharing, liking and interacting! I hope you guys are enjoying it as much as I love writing it!. The next chapter tho (we have a few surprise guests) ;) again all is fair in love and war…

[domxmarvel]

Celebs-Wedding dress

Masterlist

Taylor

After insisting that you join your friend in trying on wedding dresses you agreed,looking through the racks for something that would catch your eye. You found one,it was the exact style that you loved. Trying it on only drove the point home,it was perfect. It fit you perfectly, hugging you in just the right places. You decide to snap a photo and send it to Taylor,wondering what her reaction would be.

"Oh darling, it's as if the bridal gods themselves crafted that dress with you in mind. You look like a vision woven from dreams and fairy tales. Utterly enchanting" You chuckled to yourself,at her reaction.

"Poetic as ever Tay"

"I had to do justice to your stunning look, darling! But honestly, that dress is a masterpiece on you. You're going to knock everyone's socks off at the wedding"

"You're already planning aren't you?"

"Guilty as charged! I can't help myself. Weddings are just so dreamy, and seeing you in that dress is only fueling the imagination even more."

"I think you forgot something though" She seemed to be so excited that she forgot she hadn't even asked you.

"Oh my goodness, how could I forget the most crucial part?! Will you, my dear friend, be my maid of honor?"

"Hilarious Tay-Tay"

Sabrina

You never wore dresses,finding them uncomfortable but your friend insisted that you try some wedding dresses. It was her wedding but she insisted you'd join her and try some. After some convincing you agreed and tried one on,watching yourself in the mirror. It looked good, it fit perfectly and accentuated your curves. While trying it on you felt...pretty. You found yourself unexpectedly taking photos,debating sending them to your girlfriend your finger hovering above the send button. There was a knock at the changing room door,making you jump and press the send button. You turned to the door,dismissing whoever it was with a .

"I'll be out in a minute"  Looking at your phone you saw that it had been sent. The girl at the other side of the door didn't reply but you still could see her feet below the door. You waited for a message, your heart beating fast. It's been a minute or two since you've sent the picture. Your phone vibrated,you looked at it and saw that you got a reply. She knew you didn't like wearing dresses very much so you wondered what she had to say. It wasn't just a dress,it was a wedding dress.

"You look stunning in that dress. Wish I could see you in person right now."

"You like it?" Somehow a part of you almost didn't believe her,you knew she wouldn't lie but your insecurities got the better of you right now.

"Honey, I love it. It makes you look even more beautiful than usual." Her reply sent butterflies to your stomach.

"I might try on a couple more"

"Oh, you should. Especially if you look as good in them as in the one you're wearing now." You couldn't see her right now but you had a feeling that right now she was smirking. "And send me pictures, will you? I'd like to see how beautiful you look in other dresses." You felt your face starting to heat up again, at the thought of sending her more pictures.

"I'll send you some more"

"Can't wait. Maybe I'll even send you something in return." She replied, teasing you.

"Sabrina!" You texted but you knew your tone would be understood.

"It's not my fault you look so good in that dress. You're teasing me too, you know." She was right. You had a vague suspicion that you might have overdone it a bit with the pictures you have been sending. "I'm just saying I could return the favor,love." She replied, grinning knowing how riled up you were.

Sadie

This wasn't how you imagined the day going,trying on wedding dresses with your friends. Trying on dress after dress,for the afternoon. You tried one more one,one of your friends suggesting you should send a photo of it to Sadie. So you did,snapping a photo and sending it to your girlfriend. You soon received  a text back from Sadie,almost like she was waiting for that text.

"That dress is absolutely stunning on you. I could stare at you for hours in that."

"You're too sweet" you tried some more,sending her various photos.

"I have something to tell you" she replied

"What is it?"

"I know that this is a weird request, but could you send me a video of you in the dress?" You had one of your friends film you twirling around in the dress. Sending it to her. "You look so beautiful in that dress. It's even more stunning when it's in motion" she responded. Quickly followed by another message. "I just wish I could see it in person"

"Maybe we could go some time,just us"

"Just us sounds perfect"

[yawnderu]

Bruises That Bloom Purple — TF141 x Reader

>This was originally going to be a part of my 141 x Reader fanfic Stray, though I decided to change the ending, so have this angst one-shot instead.

When Johnny left them, they mourned. But he also took a part of Stray; the part that made her human.

The journal in your hands was a reminder of everything you lost— everything that Johnny had in mind ever since he met the task force. Pages upon pages full of scribbles, drawings, plans. His mind poured into the paper as if he didn't want to forget, some pages stained with coffee and blood, some fully clean. Your hands shook as you held the small book close to your chest, sob after sob escaping your lips for so long that the migraine became a second part of you.

"Johnny..." You cried out, hoping he would walk through the door. Hoping he would appear out of nowhere, hoping he would take you with him, hoping for anything, anything at all that allowed you to see his pretty blue eyes again, to be held securely in his arms again, to be kissed by him again. Fuck, even the image of him hurt.

You didn't lose a teammate— you lost a soulmate. A piece of you, of your soul, a piece so crucial to you Makarov might as well have ripped your heart out and left you to bleed pathetically on the cold floor of the underground tunnel.

You're sobbing so loud you don't even hear the polite knock on the door, eyes screwed shut tightly, sealed by the tears that come flowing down like a broken dam. You don't register anything going on around you until you feel a bare hand on your cheek, vision blurry, yet you can recognize that burly figure anywhere— Simon. You don't do anything other than to keep sobbing, pressing the journal closer to your chest, maybe hoping it'll start sinking into your skin and will allow you to have a part of Johnny within you.

"I'm here, love." He whispers softly, his tone more gentle than anything you've ever heard. He slowly lays in bed with you and brings you closer to his chest, not minding the mess of saliva, tears, and snot now staining his shirt.

"Somethin' to keep your heart safe." He pressed something cold into your hand— Soap's dog tags. You instantly hold them tightly, using them as a lifeline to stay with it. Simon presses a soft kiss against your forehead before his hand presses on the back of your head, holding you even closer, allowing you to cry on him.

"Johnny had the braid you gave him with him all the time, did ya know? Kept it tucked away in his jacket. I r'member him talkin' about it all the time, braggin' about how you gave 'im that." A small chuckle escapes your lips for the first time ever since he died, the sound full of pain and bitterness, yet it was something. It gave Simon all the confirmation he needed to keep talking.

"He kept everythin' you gave 'im. If it wasn't the bloody braid, it was a picture. If it wasn't one of those... it was a letter." And you know it was true. You've read his journal for what feels like hundreds of times, some of the letters you gave him were tucked away in pages with drawings of you. If a letter wasn't there, it was one of the many polaroids he had of you. Some alone, some together, some with the entire task force, including a masked Ghost.

Your throat is too sore from sobbing, you couldn't even speak if you wanted to, so you simply nod while laying your head against his chest. There's something about Simon that has always glued you together— something about the man who, even when you didn't get along at first, gave you an odd sense of comfort. Perhaps it's his smell, perhaps his voice, and maybe even his soul, that always seems to be one with yours.

"For Johnny, 't was a reminder that he was never alone." He kisses your forehead again, one of his hands gently massaging your scalp while the other one rubs up and down your back, spreading the warmth of his hand all over your trembling body.

You remember the exact same moment you gave him that braid. A protection braid made with a small strand of the bottom of your hair, sealed with words of affirmation and wishes of the future, a few months after your relationship with the men started. Love. Survival. Companionship.

"When we..." You began, voice wavering and weak, yet it had Simon's full focus. "When we scatter his ashes, can you do me a favor?" He'd do anything for you.

At 15:30, the 141 arrived at the cliff. You're all stuck in silence for a few minutes, mourning in your own ways while looking at the sunset and the ocean below you. The view is nothing short of breathtaking, yet the heartbreak is too great to fully appreciate it. You can't help but think Johnny would have loved this view, but the thought is quickly interrupted.

"He was the best of us." Price says, gravely voice growing even deeper at the pain of losing such an important part of his soul.

"The toughest." Gaz continues, looking into the ocean.

"He'd've fought the world bare handed..." Simon replies and all you can do is look into the water, trying your best to hold it together. Simon leans down, grabbing the urn from his backpack. He holds it up and you all put your hands on it, holding a part of Johnny for the last time.

"Who dares wins..." And win he did. At the very least, Johnny found a family.

"Sleep easy, soldier." More than a soldier, Johnny was the son he never had.

"See you down range, brother... we'll take it from here."

"Rest easy, my friend. You’ll never be forgotten." You fought off the urge to call him your love, your soulmate, yet they all knew what was in your mind.

"Rest in peace, Johnny." The words barely came out of his lips. It was like losing Tommy all over again. Simon opens the urn and lets the wind take Johnny's ashes, flying away, freeing his soul. You all look at him go and you manage to let a small smile take over your lips, watching proudly as he flies away, despite knowing he took a part of your soul with him.

Simon and you stay behind, knowing Price and Gaz will be waiting in the car for you. You slowly sink down to your knees, hands resting on your lap. It doesn't take long before Simon kneels behind you, hands gathering your hair before he begins to braid.

Revenge. Death. Vengeance.

His free hand pulls out a combat knife that belonged to Soap, lining up the razor sharp blade to your hair. With one smooth motion, he slides through the hair easily, letting the now shoulder length strands fall free. He places the braid on your lap and you look down at it, eventually letting the hair go down the cliff the same way you let go of Johnny.

You never let go of grief— you grow around it. And despite the agony your soul is in, you know these three men will do anything for you, the same way you'll do anything for them.

[redux-iterum]

Sorry for all the questions from me recently,, but I've been planning to write a fanfic that takes place before pinestar exists in riverclan, blast to the past if you will! I just wanted to ask if you have any tips or advice because I really look up to your writing!

No worries about questions! I'm happy to answer if I can. I'll try to give some advice on writing in general, and hopefully it'll help you.

Figure out what pace will help you keep going on the project, fanfic or original, and work with that. If writing 200 words a day every day or 1k words every three days is your comfortable speed and keeps you from getting exhausted, then don't force yourself to Stephen King it and write an excess of 2k every single day. Your goal is to enjoy yourself here and keep going until it's completed. It won't be worth it if you suffer the whole time.

That being said, at times you may need to strap yourself down and just get through the part you don't want to write. This requires some discipline and self-training, but it is doable. The reward of getting to the part you're excited about is completely worth the work of writing when bored. I can very much promise you that. Every single thing I've ever worked on, I've had to force myself to keep writing/drawing at some point, and every time I've been happy that I worked until I got my reward of the part I was psyched to get to. Hell, I'm doing that right now with the next book in this series! And, fun fact, the more you do it, the easier it gets. Sort of like exercise!

If you need to plan ahead of time to finish a project like I do, then you might could borrow my method of planning: write down one or a couple sentences describing the overall, most basic idea of the plot (literally just something like "[Character] in RiverClan finds a secret plot by [other character] to overthrow the leader, stops them, and then discovers that they were right to be suspicious about the leader's secrets and helps oust the leader"); write down all the story beats and character moments you have in mind in no specific order; break down the plot into more chewable chunks using the aforementioned beats and moments to help you figure out the connecting veins to each chunk; and from there, go smaller and smaller as needed until you have enough to work with that you're comfortable writing. I personally like to write a summary of each chapter as well - all of them - before starting to actually write those chapters. It helps me keep track of everything and prevents me from fucking up the story I had in mind by being impulsive and forgetting the plan.

Even if you love a moment, character or line of dialog, if it isn't working with everything else and is disrupting the flow of the story, don't be afraid to throw it out. It's hard and I hate doing it myself, but sometimes it's just time to get rid of something you're attached to. "Kill your darlings" doesn't just mean killing a character you like, it means taking out things that you love no matter how much it feels like ripping out a tooth. You can always find a way to use whatever it is later in something else.

If you have a willing beta/editor, by GOD, ask for their help. A second set of eyes is crucial to ensuring the quality of your story. The thing is that you're too close to your creation to know for sure if it's good to everyone else - even if it genuinely is amazing, you have no idea because you made it. Having someone outside the circle of sentiment to read and say, "Hey, this dialog doesn't sound very realistic" or "Huh, I thought this piece was foreshadowing something else, maybe clear that up a little" is, while painful to your ego, more precious than a pot of gold. Appreciate the critique you get. It's awesome for your growth. Do know that not all critique is going to be helpful to your specific writing style, but a lot of it is very much worth paying attention to and taking a minute to mull over and decide whether to humor it or not. This, too, you will get better at differentiating over time.

All this said, remember that if you're not getting a paycheck, you're doing this for fun. You are under no obligation to finish a story that's making you miserable. You'll have to learn the difference between "fic I'm in a boring moment of" and "fic that's actively harming my mental wellbeing because I feel obligated to complete it", and sometimes you'll need a second person to voice your thoughts to in order to judge that. If it sucks, hit da bricks! Don't punish yourself for having to stop, or even just taking a break. A fanfic is not worth your sanity. Trust me on this.

That shit got long and I apologize. Hopefully this helped!

[mirai-e-jump]

Hero Vision Vol.38 (2010/Autumn) ft. Kamen Rider OOO Cast Members Watanabe Shu x Miura Ryosuke, Asaya Kimijima Yamada Yusuke x Hashimoto Taito Interviews (translations below)

Publication: December 12, 2010

"From "Kamen Rider OOO," comes Watanabe Shu-kun, who plays Eiji Hino and Kamen Rider OOO, and Miura Ryosuke-kun, who plays Ankh and Izumi Shingo. At the time of this interview, it's been about 4 months since filming began, but, this is actually their first face to face interview. While talking about each other in a somewhat clumsy manner, as the conversation began to focus around the production, it became clear that they both have a passion for it, and that they couldn't talk about enough."

-Freedom and Loneliness?-

Miura: This is actually our first face to face interview.

Watanabe: It's been about 4 months since filming started (laughs). The first time we met was at a rehearsal. If I'm remembering right, you told me a simple recipe for carbonara.

Miura: I was like, "The first part is crucial!," and then explained to you how to make it from scratch……you probably still haven't made it, have you?

Watanabe: That's how the conversation started (laughs). I wouldn't stop talking to you.

Miura: You suddenly thrusted yourself into my personal space. To be honest, it startled me.

Watanabe: Miura-kun is the type who dislikes that kind of thing, right? I did it while thinking, "I'm sure he doesn't like it."

Miura: That's right. I was actually thinking of taking a step back…..I think we both got off on the wrong foot in the beginning (laughs).

Watanabe: Don't worry about it. The show will last a year, so we can start over during that time! (laughs).

Miura: Watanabe-kun was more firm when we first met.

Watanabe: Eh? You don't think so now?

Miura: You're very free (laughs). As I mentioned in the previous issue, there's nothing Watanabe-kun can't say or do now since becoming an adult. When I look at Watanabe-kun, he reminds me that I shouldn't forget about being honest.

Watanabe:……I've been wondering for some time now, but you've been addressing me as "Watanabe-kun."

Miura: Forgive me. It should be "Watanabe-san"

Watanabe: It's always either "Shu" or "Shu-kun," right?! (laughs).

Miura: It's because this is our first face to face together. When you print this, have him referred to as "Watanabe-san" (laughs).

Watanabe: It sounds like we're not on good terms.

Miura: Now, now (laughs). I like Shu-kun because he's free and honest. He'll usually say something on set like, "I'm hungry," as he naturally speaks on behalf of what everyone else is actually thinking, so it's nice being around someone like him. Also, when I look at your attitude toward the performance in Kamen Rider OOO, I feel that you're always looking at things with the feeling of, "What should I be doing now?" I think it gives off incredible energy, and it in turn makes me feel like, "I can't give up." I'm grateful for him.

Watanabe: You praise me too much.

Miura: Occasionally (laughs). I'd never say such things on set though.

Watanabe: That's for sure (laughs). Miura-kun, in a good way, hasn't changed since we first met. As his junior, this might be strange for me to say, but he's a very considerate person. It's amazing because he doesn't force it, it's just natural.

Miura: What have you seen that makes you think that way?

Watanabe: You casually moved your bag off a bench, and it give off an aura that said, "It's fine if you sit here."

Miura: That's it?! (laughs).

Watanabe: I feel like you're nicer to everyone else except me.

Miura: There it is! You often say stuff like that in interviews, don't you? Every time I do an interview, the interviewer says to me, "Miura-kun, Watanabe-kun said, "I wish he'd be alittle kinder to me," you say that right?!

Watanabe: Ahahaha! (laughs).

Miura: It's true that I haven't had a chance to have such deep conversations with Shu-kun…..I should be the one saying, "Be nicer to me." You're so close to (Asaya) Kimijima-kun, that I tend to become jealous.

Watanabe: Eh? Really?

Miura: Well, it's because you've always admired him since you saw him modeling, right?

Watanabe: That's true, but I still haven't gotten to know Kimijima-kun that well yet, you know?~.

Miura: No. I'm always thinking, "What? Am I really all alone?"

Watanabe: No way (laughs). Ah, I noticed something different about Miura-kun since the beginning. He's started to tell jokes!

Miura: That's right! (laughs).

Watanabe: At first, he wasn't really into funny stuff. He was like, "Hmmm, is that so?," and it felt like he was ignoring me. Then suddenly, he started to say funny things on his own, and started to open up more. What happened?

Miura: It's because I wanted to get to know everyone better. I'm one of the older people on set, so I'm very conscious and careful in that regard. Still, as expected, the atmosphere is different between the teen group (Watanabe-kun, Riho Takada-san, Mayuko Arisue-san). It's like there's some kind of obvious wall between us…..

Watanabe: No, no! It's more like Miura-kun was the one who put up the wall first.

Miura: Yeah. I'll admit to that (laughs).

-Eiji and Ankh are Incomplete?-

Miura: The episodes from when we first started filming, I remember them well, and I think they're nostalgic.

Watanabe: Like the scene where we first performed together?

Miura:……Hmm?

Watanabe: You don't remember! (laughs).

Miura: No, no! If I remember correctly, I was Shingo, right?

Watanabe: Wrong, it was Miura-kun!

Miura: That's right! (laughs)

Watanabe: I made a mistake (laughs). I meant it was Ankh!

Miura: Yeah. At the end of the first episode, Ankh possesses Shingo.

Watanabe: There's that one scene where Ankh quickly grabs him by the chest and yells, "What do you mean?!" When I saw Miura-kun's performance, I really thought, "He's scary! I see, from now on, Ankh will be getting mad at Eiji like this all the time….."

Miura: Eiji had a calm face, but Shu-kun looked terrified (laughs). When I performed it with Shu-kun, I thought it was very fresh, and I still think about it even now.

Watanabe: What do you mean?

Miura: Shu-kun acts naturally, which is how he becomes Eiji. On the other hand, I'm a pretty well defined character, so it's interesting to see the contrast in the way we act and the characters we portray. From the first time I read the script, I knew I wanted to create a contrasting relationship, so I'm glad to see that I've been able to make it happen.

Watanabe: Eiji and Ankh have a really strange relationship right now. We don't know if they'll stay together or not, if they understand each other or not…..

Miura: We don't know what'll happen in the future, but……Whether Ankh and Eiji continue to work together, or decide to separate, either way, I think it'll be interesting to see what direction OOO heads in. No matter what scene we're in, I enjoy them all. Isn't it fun thinking about where and what Ankh and Eiji are doing, and then finally finding out?

Watanabe: I know! Ankh's a bird monster, so he'd be eating chicken meat (laughs).

Miura: Ankh isn't just about being in high places. Even though he's a bird, maybe there'll be a scene in the future where he goes into water?

Watanabe: Currently, I like the scene in episode 8, where Eiji goes to save Ankh from completely falling apart due to being beaten by Uva. From there, I felt that the two of them were rapidly getting closer. If Eiji had just met Ankh, he would've never done such a thing, but I guess he gradually began to realize that he needs Ankh.

Miura: If someone's in troube right in front of him, Eiji's the kind of guy who can't leave them alone, but is it not the same for Ankh?

Watanabe: Ankh's the one who approached Eiji to take advantage of him. At first, he didn't know that he couldn't transform without Ankh. In episode 8, I think I understood that both Eiji and Ankh are incomplete without each other. I was acting as if it was an important scene for both of them.

Miura: I see.

Watanabe: But, Ankh isn't honest, so he doesn't say "Thank you."

Miura: He'll say, "He's a useful idiot." Basically, he's got a bad mouth (laughs).

-A Role is Coming….?-

Miura: At first, I thought Ankh stood at the top, but Eiji tends to drag him around alot, huh? Now, the only place to stand is at the top of a tree.

Watanabe: Is that what you mean by standing on top? (laughs). It's true that after giving Eiji the medals, he'll often be on a higer spot to view things.

Miura: I think that's what it means. Also, I really like the scenes where the two of us stand side by side. At first, I was wondering how it'd turn out, but when I saw the broadcast, it looked great.

Watanabe: I thought that too!

Miura: The image of two contrasting people standing side by side, it's really good. I don't want to lose to the Kamen Rider W duo (Renn Kiriyama-kun, who played Shotaro Hidari, and Masaki Suda-kun, who played Philip).

Watanabe: For me, when Eiji's next to Ankh as he plays with his iPad….I like the casual feel of those scenes. Even if you think, "What's the point of them being together now?," they're still casually together. Will there be more scenes like that in the future?…..

Miura: As Ankh continues to become more emotional, there'll probably be more conflicts between them.

Watanabe: Eiji's inner self is also coming out. We still don't know whether they'll continue to fight or understand each other. Either way, I'm interested in seeing how Ankh becomes more human like and cute. Especially since Chiyoko-san keeps making him look so cute (laughs).

Miura: I feel bad for Ankh these days (laughs).

Watanabe: From episode 10 onwards, Chiyoko-san starts to discipline him, and Hina-chan uses her incredibly stupid strength to knock him around. Also, in episode 8, Eiji ignored him by saying, "Ah, I see."

Miura: That's right! Gamel's Yummy won't drop that many medals even if it's defeated, so Ankh says that there's no need to fight, but Eiji just ignores him with, "Ah, I see," and fights. It made me think, "He can really say such a thing!" It was an incredibly cold, "Ah, I see." It made me feel lonely. I thought it was Shu-kun's true feelings……

Watanabe: What? Is today the day Miura-kun spreads rumors that we don't get along?! (laughs). But, we've been discussing our thoughts on the broadcast, right? There's that one scene with Ankh that I really like. In episode 6, while riding the motorcycle to the apartment with the Piranha Yummy, he makes eye contact with Hina-chan.

Miura: It was through the helmet.

Watanabe: It was just the expression of his eyes, but it was really cool. Your eyes held various implications.

Miura: Hmm~. That's a nice way of putting it.

Watanabe: There's also episode 5. When Eiji's being chased by Uva, he sends his Battacandroid to Ankh for help, where he scolds him with, "Would you stop playing around?" That's Miura-kun's true nature.

Miura: What? That previous push back? (laughs). That's how Ankh should be! But, I did think, "Huh? This is something I'd often say to Watanabe Shu" (laughs).

Watanabe: Does that mean we're getting closer to our roles? We've only done alittle over 10 episodes so far, but looking back, there's so much to talk about.

Miura: That's because we're enjoying OOO just as much as the viewers.

Watanabe: That's true, I'm a fan (laughs). Everyone who's reading this magazine is watching the relationship between Eiji and Ankh grow deeper and deeper, so I hope you're enjoying it. Also, the songs that play during the combos are rather impactful, so I hope you're enjoying them as well! (laughs).

Miura: We're all working on the show with the hopes that the viewers will enjoy it more than we're enjoying it. I want to capture that feeling better through the filming. OOO still has a long way to go, so let's enjoy it together, with me, Shu-kun, Ankh and Eiji.

Watanabe: We should go to a hot spring together.

Miura: You mean you want to have a naked relationship like Eiji, and open our hearts to each other?

Watanabe: Hmm?

Miura: In the show, Eiji often talks to someone while in his underwear. I thought it symbolized facing the other person while being naked in both body and soul. Maybe that's what we're missing (laughs).

Watanabe: Right, right. I think it'll help bring us closer in our performance.

Miura: Well then, please make a plan and give me a call. I can't do that kind of thing (laughs).

Watanabe: You got it! _

"Shintaro Goto is a 22 year old former police elite, who now works for Kousei Kougami, the Chairman of the Kougami Foundation, as a Ridevendor captain and an observer of OOO. He may have a cool attitude that makes others feel unwelcome, but in reality, he's a passionate person who's determined to "save the world." Asaya Kimijima-kun plays Goto, who becomes more human and appealing as the story progresses. We could see that he's learning and enjoying himself as he performs the constantly changing Goto."

-"Shintaro Goto" is changing-

Kimijima: It's been about 4 months since Kamen Rider OOO started filming, and I'm still learning everyday. I haven't really seen much from the Kamen Rider series, since it wasn't being broadcast when I was a kid. That's why when I found out that I was going to be in OOO, I was happy, but at the same time, I was worried with, "I wonder what's going to happen?," as there were so many unknowns. It's the first time for me to play a role in over a year, and it's also the first time for me to shoot action and CG scenes. What's more, Kamen Rider is such a "big stage." I was always confused, because I couldn't see how my performance was going to be captured on film. But, it's also a fun way to learn about something you don't know.

First off, there's the character Goto. Currently, The image I had of him in my mind has changed alot. In the beginning, I was told that his set up was a quiet and expressionless former police elite, who's now a cool guy who loyally performs his duties as a subordinate of Chairman Kousei Kougami of the Kougami Foundation. I was trying to be mindful of those characteristics in my performance, but as the story progressed, he started to fall apart as he was being pulled around by Eiji, and saying, "I want to save the world with my own hands, but I can't." He seems to express his desires and dissatisfaction with just his attitude, huh? He's becoming alot more human. Once I realized that Goto isn't a person who feels no emotions, I began to think that both Goto and I need to be more flexible in our performances.

However, his character is still abit of a mystery. My own view of Goto, which isn't depicted in the script, is that he's always had a strong sense of justice, never made any friends, worked hard to join the police, and did his duties without wasting time on a personal life. That's probably why the way Eiji acts is so hard to understand. I don't know if Eiji is passionate or not when it comes to fighting.

Most importantly, while Goto avoids interacting with people as much as possible, Eiji lives his life while always interacting with someone. He's got a different sense of distance from others. I guess they can't easily understand each other, because their lifestyles are so different……What's more, when Goto gets swayed by Eiji, he ends up becoming someone with a comedic side (laughs).

In episode 7, he's struck in the face with cake. I was surprised, being like, "This is going too far for Goto. What should I do?" (laughs). Goto's not trying to be funny, he's just being serious, and I think that makes him even more interesting (laughs).

Around episodes 9 and 10, Goto's gun action started to increase. One word I could use for it is "difficult." Even though I have experience in sports, this is my first time in action, and shooting a gun is something I'd never do in my normal life. Since my body isn't familiar with it, it's difficult just to take a stance. Actually, before acting, I watched a few movies for reference, but I think I made a mistake in my choices……If you watch war movies or mafia movies, the way they shoot is very clumsy. I guess it's because it takes place in an intense world, where everything is life or death. Later, I realized that I should've watched some detective movies (laughs).

Once filming actually started, I was amazed at how much I learned on set. The Action Director taught me every step of the way, from how to handle weapons, to how to get on and off a motorcycle. Rather than being told by the Director, "This is the kind of Goto you should play," I get feedback on Goto that I've personally thought of, and sometimes I notice things myself and make corrections, so I feel like I'm creating Goto together with everyone else. I go into filming with my own idea of, "How I want Goto to be" in advance, but when I actually play him, he becomes something different just by the way he's portrayed. You can't create Goto with just your own ideas alone. I believe that by talking with everyone on set, we're able to present a, "Good Goto" for the broadcast.

It's difficult to look at the broadcast objectively, but regardless, my opinion is, "The story is interesting!" Each character is interesting, and the various combinations of the medals are interesting……Huh? Surprisingly, I'm enjoying it objectively (laughs).

-"Asaya Kimijima" is changing-

When I first met (Watanabe) Shu-kun, who plays Eiji, he told me, "I saw a magazine where Kimijima-kun was a model," and it honestly made me very happy. We had conversations like, "If you have any clothes you don't need, please give them to me," and I'd say, "Alright then," but many people also asked me the same thing, and I wouldn't act on it. Then, every time I saw him, he would ask, "When are you going to give me some clothes?" I realized, "Ah, he's being serious," and so……I gave some to him. That event made me realize that Shu-kun is not the kind of person who tells lies or makes ups stories (laughs). He's exactly like Eiji. Although we've never been alone together due to the filming schedule, (Miura) Ryosuke-kun, who plays Ankh, is someone who's very particular about how he presents himself and is an artistic person. I feel inspired just by looking at him.

(After learning that Watanabe-kun said in the previous issue that he wanted the 3 of them to be in the same dressing room together) Unfortunately, there hasn't been any news of the 3 of us being in the same dressing room yet (laughs). Shu-kun often invites me to go out to dinner with everyone, but we haven't been able to do that because our schedules don't match up…..

By the way, people often ask me, "What kind of things do you talk about with your co stars?" It sounds like something that guys in their teens or 20s would normally talk about (laughs). I'd rather not talk about our performances. As I'm still learning, there's nothing I can say about the performance, and I don't think acting is something that should interfere in personal talk. When Shu-kun saw the broadcast, he said, "Goto's really cool," and, "OOO is interesting, right?," but all I can say is, "It's interesting, isn't it?" (laughs). This is normal for me, because I'm not the type of person who talks alot. On the other hand, Shu-kun is the type who talks all the time, and seems to love it when someone jokes around with him. That's why I'm also making sure to joke around too (laughs).

Considering this project will last a year, the filming and broadcasts have only just begun. I wonder how Goto will change in the future. He works under Kougami, and has doubts about not being able to save the world with his own power. During all of this, he gets involved with Eiji and Ankh, and he's definitely being influenced by them, as he continues to recognize their actions and ways of thinking......His way of life will gradually change, and you'll see a new side to him. I'll do my best to show off Goto's range, so please keep an eye on him in the future. I myself hope to also change for the better through this show. I hope you'll watch over me warmly. _

"Among the elite monsters known as Greeed, who are hostile to Kamen Rider OOO, is Yusuke Yamada-kun, who plays Uva, an insect based monster, and Taito Hashimoto-kun, who plays Kazari, a feline based monster. Not only do they have to play the roles of special monsters, but they also couldn't hide their confusion, as there were alot of first time experiences for them, but it seems that they're quickly discovering their own ways of acting. The efforts of these two are firmly connected to the existence of their characters in the story."

-The gap between the role and what was envisioned?-

Yamada: Taito, have you gotten use to things yet?

Hashimoto: (while smiling proudly) No! I'm new to acting, so there's alot I still don't understand. During the dubbing, I was overwhelmed by the performance of Yukana-san, who plays Mezool. I thought, "She can do such a powerful performance with just her voice!" At first, I was struggling to watch the movements of Kazari, played by Suit Actor (Jun) Watanabe-san, and to check the voice counts. Now that I've got this role, I think I need to increase the variety of my voice for the fighting scenes.

Yamada: It's difficult to get the intonation right, isn't it? I heard the person who voices Yummy do the dubbing, but the Yummy don't talk, so he just goes, "Gwah!" with a human touch. I immediately tried to imitate him, but he got angry and said, "Weak" (laughs). I wonder how you make a strong sounding voice? If you overdo it, it makes me look weak.

Hashimoto: Children watch the show, so I think it's important to act in ways that are big and easy to understand. I think it also depends on how much I can get immersed in the world by watching the dubbing footage. However, lately I've been able to see alot more moments where I think, "Ah, now!," as the footage and my own voice become linked. It feels really good!

Yamada: For me, it was more difficult not being able to approach Uva in the beginning.

Hashimoto: Because he keeps away from others?

Yamada: What I envisioned and what was expected of me didn't work together. The image of Uva I had, was that he was a weak and insecure guy. It's because, Kazari is clever, Gamel acts like a child, and Mezool is full of mystery, so I thought it'd be nice to have at least one character with those traits. But, what the Directors wanted was to have Uva be "tough."

Hashimoto: "OOO" is also the plural form of "King" (Ou-zu). You just need to have more style.

Yamada: That's right, isn't it? I thought too much about it, and at first, I acted in a way where I was still trying to figure things out. But, I was able to change direction by talking with the Director on the set, and I think I've made up my mind. Originally, I had set my methods at 100% from the beginning, but then I tried it at 50% and would gradually add to it, which seems to have been a good idea. I don't know if this is the best way of doing things, but I'm someone who can't give less, so I think it's faster.

Hashimoto: I'm thinking about alot of different things. I try thinking as much as possible before going to the set. If I were to create something different from what the Directors envisioned, the current set up makes it impossible to change. I'm just trying to respond to what was said to me on set.

Yamada: What kind of advice do you get on set?

Hashimoto: Mostly about my movements I guess. In particular, I learned alot about hand movements.

Yamada: Earlier, you were doing it while taking pictures, but do you think about the small movements of Kazari's hands as Taito's?

Hashimoto: Some parts I thought of myself, and some I came up with after receiving the advice. However, I was relieved that none of them were too different from the Kazari I wanted to play.

-On a set full of confusion….-

Yamada: Are you still not getting used to the set?

Hashimoto: Unlike in stage plays, there's alot of on the spot work involved in film production, isn't there? You have to do the rehearsals yourself, and that's something I'm not used to yet.

Yamada: It's confusing because some Directors are very specific when it comes to what they film, while others tell me, "Feel free to do whatever."

Hashimoto: Now that you mention it, there was a time when a "certain someone" broke a bottle on set when he was told, "It's fine to act freely."

Yamada: That "certain someone" was me, and it's something I did because the staff gave me the OK, alright? After all, I only broke one bottle.

Hashimoto: I'll expose you myself then (laughs). After he smashed it, the atmosphere on set included the words, "Did you really break it?!" Then Yamada-kun whispered, "I'm sorry….." I could barely watch~ (laughs).

Yamada: I wanted to break down after that…..

Hashimoto: Everyone understood that you did it as a good way of expressing yourself. But, you learned the horrors of miscommunication (laughs). I've made mistakes too. The first scene we shot was the one where I appeared on a skateboard in the abandoned building where the Greeed hang out. I didn't know that filming started after they hit the clapperboard, so I started before they hit it, and the Director started to say, "H-hey!" Then, the Director said, "Stop! Stop!" so I stopped…..I was riding the skateboard with alot of enthusiasm (laughs).

Yamada: You were (laughs). Furthermore, when the clapperboard is used indoors, the sound echoes and is delayed, making it difficult to count. Sometimes the delayed sounds and our lines overlap, so it's a good idea to wait atleast one beat before starting to act.

Hashimoto: Eh?! I haven't been told that! Yamada-kun, if you know anything else, please tell me! There's so many things that are confusing me right now, and it's really tough!

Yamada: Eh? Really? Like what?

Hashimoto: They'll shoot one scene in one take, so often times I'm like, "I want to say this line after hearing the previous one!" I want to create Kazari's feelings by hearing the other person's words, but how do you act when you haven't heard them yet?

Yamada: You mean you want to act without getting a "trigger line" first? I can't really answer that. After all, we're in the realm of individual performance.

Hashimoto: Then please, tell me everything else you know!

Yamada: O, Okay……I wonder why I'm so upset (laughs).

-Will you try action in the future?!-

Yamada: Yesterday, I heard about various future developments from the Producer.

Hashimoto: I made an appeal, asking for what I wanted Kazari to be like.

Yamada: I couldn't think of anything (laughs). Well, all I want is that if Uva dies, I want him to die an enemy.

Hashimoto: Have him go, "Gwaaah~!," while looking evil.

Yamada: I don't think that'll be conveyed well in the magazine (laughs).

Hashimoto: From now on, I won't take my eyes off future developments, and I think the Greeed side of the story in Kamen Rider OOO is a really interesting. There aren't that many shows that have so many established characters and relationships among the enemies, or that the story develops around only the enemies themselves.

Yamada: I think it's fun that adults and children alike can imagine some exciting developments, like whether all the Greeed's will one day become complete, or what kind of combos OOO will show us in the future. (suddenly) Oh yeah, did you know that Director Osamu Kaneda is JAE's (Japan Action Enterprise) President?

Hashimoto: Really?! (is surprised)

Yamada: I also found out about it yesterday, and I'm looking forward to having him teach me about action. I heard that Director Kaneda almost never uses CG when filming.

Hashimoto: I think I can do all the actions that the Yummy do! Like the backflip belly flop! As the name implies, you do a backflip and land on your stomach.

Yamada: I think so too, so I told the Producer. He said, "That kid can do it." It'd be nice to see more pre transformation action.

Hashimoto: You did?! Thank you Yamada-kun! I'm really motivated now!