#oh i know what it is it reminds me of some of the manga cover colours

[hinamie]

latent tg roots coming through heavy w this one i fear

[ozzgin]

I love your reader insert stuff!! The yandere yazuka series was vvvv entertaining, I wish I had a big scary gangster to scare away my stalker lol

If you are open to requests, how about Idol!Reader x Yandere!Bodyguard. I love the trope so much, and I'm interested and what you'd do with the idea. No worries if you're not interested tho!

Best wishes

-🌟

I just finished writing it and you've got me punching the air with your prompt. It wasn't really my thing but I'm now sold. Thank you for the trope idea. :’)

Yandere!Bodyguard x Idol!Reader (I)

Short scenario featuring your bodyguard that takes his duty a little too seriously. Not that you’d mind…

[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3]

TW: violence

(Cover from the manga “A girl and her guard dog”)

"Fantastic show tonight!"

The older man guides you in and closes the door behind him. You smile warmly and seat yourself on the sofa. He quickly follows, although at a terribly uncomfortable proximity. His legs are pressed against yours and he extends an arm behind you, pretending to stretch. You shuffle awkwardly and lock your hands in your lap. You can already tell where this is going.

"With your talent, I'm confident we could triple the number of attendants. We just need a bigger venue." He nods at you and taps your thigh with his other free hand as encouragement. You notice the wedding band digging into his skin. 

"Alas, let us not waste the evening with business talk. I'm sure a stunning lady like you has better things to do." He laughs at his own compliment and ponders for a minute. "In fact, why don't we have dinner together? I know a great restaurant in the area."

You open your mouth to speak, but are distracted by the sudden, mild pressure on your leg. Somehow, his greasy fingers have wandered further up in the time you listened to his shameless offer. You've been in this career for long enough to guess what such proposals entail. If you say no, best case scenario he presses further, calling you a stuck up bitch and reminding you who has the power in this partnership. Worst case scenario, he leaves the room and the calls and invitations to perform will gradually drop. 

Yet your situation is special, benefitting from an additional possibility. A loophole, if you may.

Should you scream? Oh, he always gets so angry when you act scared. It's an immediate trigger. He really has a soft spot for your glistening, frightened eyes. You glance up one final time at the perverted smirk silently disregarding you. If you are to be honest with yourself, you'd very much enjoy seeing it wiped off forever. Why not? You're feeling particularly mean today.

So without hesitation, you release a high pitched yell of help. The door bursts open and the hinges creak. A tall, toned man walks in, and without a word he lunges at the manager, pulling him by the collar of his cheap dress jacket. You hold your cheeks dramatically, and bat your eyelashes at your bodyguard.

"H-he tried to molest me..." you mumble between sobs.

That's all he needs to proceed. Now the real fun begins. You can hear the muffled screams of protest. The bones crack and the flesh bends under his iron fists. Standing before your bodyguard, they all end up looking like ragdolls. Comically limp and weak, folding and breaking with no resistance. It amuses you greatly.

When did it all begin? You can't remember anymore. You were in your early years and this scary looking stranger entered your little backstage room. His explanation was brief and to the point: as your fame increases, so will the threats to your safety. He was appointed as your bodyguard. You couldn't care less, so you just shrugged. 

You've always been on the playful side. Not necessarily rude, just some innocent tease and banter wherever it's well received. Seeing him so quiet and stoic, you couldn't help but try to push his buttons: changing in front of him and requiring his assistance, occasionally asking him to pick you up and carry you because you could no longer walk. Naturally you would've stopped at the first complaint, but that's the strange part: no reaction ever came. He went along with everything. You assumed it's part of the job. Celebrities aren't known for their good manners, so hiring someone that loses their temper easily would be a fast ticket to termination.

Then you had your first encounter with one of the unpleasant fans you've been warned about. You could only stare in terror at your bodyguard's feral, unhinged reaction. The unfortunate fan's face was so disfigured, you wondered if anyone could ever manage to fix it back into shape. The bodyguard was panting and you could see the sweat coating his face and chest. You were rather confident there were many other ways to deal with it and this wasn't on the recommended list. Thus you felt compelled to ask the million dollar question:

"You act like a jealous spouse. Do you have a crush on me or something?"

You kind of regretted your audacity towards a man that had just nearly killed someone. But his features softened instantly and he turned to you, wiping his forehead and straightening his collar. 

"I suppose so. Is that an issue?"

As you stared ahead, processing his unbothered act, you sensed your cheeks feverishly burning. Uh oh. You hadn't anticipated such a nonchalant confession. You thought back to all the times you stood before him, bare and flirty. Was he merely holding back his urges the entire time? Or was he finally paying you back for all the teasing? Then again, his face didn't betray any hint of humor.

"I've never heard you joke before", you decided to test the waters.

"I'm not. Why would I joke about something like this?" He gazed at you incredulously. 

As somber and honest as ever. Well, that would indeed explain why he'd let you get away with the cheeky behavior. The more you considered it, the more entranced you became with the idea of indulging in such a relationship. As a famous idol, you couldn't be seen dating anyone. One rumor of you having a boyfriend and the agency would've had your ass suspended. But no one said anything about messing around with your bodyguard. He has to be with you all the time, so no one would suspect a thing. And you could definitely expand his list of responsibilities. You'd been terribly stressed lately, after all, and an outlet to release your frustrations would be most welcomed. Your bodyguard would never refuse pleasing his beloved.

You chuckled and pulled him towards your dressing room, giddy with excitement. Something about his imposing presence, like a wild animal that had just escaped from the leash, aroused you to no end. You've had your share of crazy fans, but this was the cherry on top. 

"Should we leave?"

You're jolted out of your daydreams by his low, rough voice. Ah, you missed the grand finale. Too bad. The bodyguard approaches you, with the shirt wrinkled and the top buttons popped open under the shuffle of his vicious attack. You can feel the knot forming in your stomach.

"Not yet. You know how I get when you act like this..." You pout and look away. "You need to take care of me first."

He grins at your last statement.

"Of course. Is the sofa okay?"

You nod.

"Then let's get you undressed, miss."

Is this what they call a scary dog privilege? 

[sphireath-wisp]

Hihi!!! I was just wondering if you could do just little cute scenarios with sae, yoichi, and rin (gn! reader + all individual)

im sorry if this isn't as detailed as you wish but I'm just really craving tooth rotting fluff+ take your time (⁠≧⁠▽⁠≦⁠)

Sypnosis: In the busy hustle and bustle of life, it's sometimes hard to find time to spend together. When there's time, what are the hobbies/little things both of you do together?

Warning: My readers are always morally grey in some way because it's more realistic to me, not proofread

Author's note: Thank you so much for reaching out and giving me this ask! I'll try my best to weave my story together to match your request. I owe my friend a good favour, so I hope you don't mind me adding her BL favourite here. Thank you so much for your understanding ε(´｡•᎑•`)っ 💕

Featuring: Sae Itoshi, Yoichi Isagi, Rin Itoshi x GN! reader

SAE ITOSHI... finds himself most at ease during late-night drives with you in the passenger seat. The windows are down, you're sticking your head out of the car despite his multiple warnings, and he can't stop smiling. His free hand is reaching for you and tugging your shirt down, and his eyes drift to your pouting face in the rearview mirror.

Usually, his late-night drives together with you have no real destination. Acting purely on a whim, Sae always drives you wherever feels right. Sometimes, it's the port right by the beach. Other times, he's driving you to an empty parking lot. Today, he decides to let you have the privilege of choosing where to go.

And when you ultimately decide to go to a playground out of all places, he scoffs but does a U-turn without hesitation.

Is it currently 11 a.m. and does he have a schedule he almost-religiously follows? Yes, and he has a feeling that he won't have enough time to drink his salted kombucha tomorrow morning. Is he tired? Absolutely. Why would he do all of this when he knows damn well he has practice tomorrow?

Hell, he's asking himself that as he opens the car door for you and helps you out.

With a cheeky peck on Sae's cheek, you wash away his thoughts and he returns the favour with a kiss on your forehead. "Let's go get a new car, yeah?" Sae shuts the car door behind you. You're bewildered, to say the least, "I'll let you pick a design this time."

"Look! It's here, it's here!" Your boyfriend, YOICHI ISAGI, geeks out in the manga section of your local bookstore. "Oh yeah, didn't they release figures already? Season 2 is being released soon, right?"

His smile only grows wider when you nod. He's crouching down beside you as you tower over him, leaning down slightly to watch him stare at the various covers. Standing back up on his feet with two in hand, Isagi seems to have reached a slight dilemma.

"Ah... should I get the latest chapter? Or should I..." Oh, isn't that the romance manga you recommended to him? The main couple was cheesy, but it reminded you a lot of how your relationship with Isagi is. Turning your head away, you find yourself stifling a giggle - how cute.

After a moment of deep thought, Isagi sulks. His shoulders slump and he kneels back down, placing both the mangas back on their shelves. Like a defeated puppy, he crouches there for a moment in silence.

"What's up?"

"I can't decide, so it's better if I don't get one or else I'll spend the rest of the day regretting it," He's solemn, your heart clenches when he forces an awkward smile. It's not a big deal, but... "You can borrow my copy y'know, don't be shy."

He perks up. It's a simple gesture, but the simplest things in life have always pleased Isagi the most. With a bashful laugh, he picks out the manga he wanted - he can indulge a little, he decides. "Right, I'm sorry. You didn't need to see how let down I was over something so small." Honestly, Isagi's a little shy. It's only been a few months into the relationship. He wants to respect you and your boundaries.

"I'll get you something in return, thank you."

RIN ITOSHI yelps when he stumbles out of your bedroom to the dimly lit living room of your apartment, sucking back a hiss from the base of his throat when something jabs at his foot. His disappointment only grows when he lifts his foot to see the imprint of a Lego brick on the sole. "What do you think you're doing? At 1 in the morning?" The once groggy Rin Itoshi is now wide awake, meeting your avoidant gaze. As you continue to piece together your Lego set, you mumble, "...couldn't sleep. I usually don't have trouble, but I don't know what's up with me today."

Despite his reluctance, he walks over to you and plops onto the carpet beside you. "Aren't you a little too old for this?" Rin begins while mindlessly piecing bricks together. His back is against your shoulder, partially leaning his weight onto you.

You scoff once he grabs the manual. "You're one to talk," you retort as you pull apart Lego pieces, "In case you haven't realized it, you happen to be playing with my Lego set."

"In case you haven't realized it, I'm helping you, idiot," There's no real malice in his voice. He crosses his legs and straightens his spine, turning to gather the pieces in a pile and redo everything from scratch. You clearly seem to be struggling. He'll never admit it, but he doesn't like the aching gap in his chest when you're not in bed with him.

It's a good excuse in his head. He's simply helping you out so you'll return to his embrace as soon as possible. It's just that. He's totally not enjoying playing with Legos with you - he convinces himself mentally with starry eyes when you both finish the overwhelming set at 2:30 a.m.

"Phew! Now to take it apart!"

"Hell no."

Taglist: @mikmwehehe, @saexy (while you did archive your old account, you are technically still on my list!! Please tell me if you want to get removed and I'll do it asap)

[absolutebl]

We've had recent disappointments with the endings to series. For me, Last Twilight, Only Friends, and 23.5 stand out. While I loved the Sign to the end, there was that unexplained Tharn getting his freedom from Chalothorn, which made the very ending not quite perfect. And while I loved Century of Love all the way through, I know some folks were disappointed at the ending.

What are some QLs that you consider to have really strong endings?

OOOO what a great question!

10 BLs With the Strongest Endings

Some BLs had better endings than the rest of the show deserved, and some were saved by the ending, while still others built up to a good ending throughout. So I suspect it kinda depends on ones definition of strong. But here are mine (you'll never guess what's at the top? but...) it's in no particular order

Seven Days - no but ACTUALLY think about it. That ending is truly phenomenal. It ties everything together, gives hope for their relationship without being cheesy AND is crazy romantic, plus it brings the narrative full circle. That ending shot, the direction, the plot, the characters, and the story ALL tied in a neat little bow. It ends by indicating that something is starting for them, something familiar it's just now they are together. Fabulous.

Light On Me - on the beach, the whole friendship group, the kiss that mirrors their couple habit of cheek squiging? Peak YA BL. It reminded me of Make it Right, and that's no bad thing... for me.

Our Dating Sim - domestic boyfriends and then the pan over to all their couple photos. So exactly them.

To My Star - yeah, the sex scene, but remember this was when we finally realized that JiWoo not only liked him all along but actually desired him all along. The tsundere character breaking open for us to see the soft underbelly. Suddenly, all of his behavior made sense in retrospect. They used the final ultra romantic sex scene as a CHARACTER REVEAL. Fucking genius.

Semantic Error - the BOYFRIENDS of it all, the harken back to both the anime and the manga (with that spank bank file), the teasing and then the breaking of the forth wall. It was multiple cheeky punches out to the audience in a tiny stinger of a scene. Not to mention it had a kind of BL "ending fairy" thing that connected to them both being idols. Perfectly executed.

Love For Love's Sake - back in beach territory but wow. I mean this show starts with an ending. And it takes a lot for me to believe in the happiness of a parable about death and self worth. They managed it with this show. But that ending was killer.

My Beautiful Man - the ending made me reassess everything about the show, the story, and the characters. The ending made me love the show. It changed my mind. It BLEW my mind. I might have kinda lost my mind. In real time.

Unknown - there were struggles with this show and not everyone enjoyed the ending but I totally flipping loved it. FINALLY. You can't tell me that "you don't even know what I dream of" line doens't live in your head rent free.

Unintentional Love Story - not the ending scene so much as the whole final episode, it's so good. It brings the story together, we get multiple big realizations, sad baby, learning that baby was abused too, defending baby, baby defending himself. RINGS!

The Eighth Sense - so much peak boyfriend after so much angst. The casual language play and teasing, the stealing of the drink, just everything, and also how very very college it all is.

10 Others I just LOVE

Be Loved In House: I Do - ultra pasteurized cheese fest

Laws of Attraction - THE CAPED WEDDING OUTFITS

About Youth - rainbow kiss cheese fest

Long Time No See - BLOOD COVERED KISSES

Restart After Come Back Home - the pan around lens flare kiss and everything it MEANS

Bad Buddy - It was so CLEVER

DNA Says Love You - the claiming and then the tussle at the cafe? Gorgeous. Adorable. No notes.

Oh! Boarding House - a family gathering while the dads are holding hands behind the couch, adorable

Where Your Eyes Linger - that damn glow up

Tinted With You - perhaps... poly?

Wow... so few Thai BL. I guess this is Korea's strength in the BL sphere? Also more Japan than I expected and outsized rep for Taiwan. (I actually could have stuck a few more from Taiwan on here but they just get SO CHEESY.)

(source)

dated mid August 2024, not responsible for great endings after that date

[purplink8]

Ace Light is so important to me. Like it's not just a headcanon but something more. Here are some instances of ace!Light imo:

When Sayu finds Light with a dirty magazine & he explains that 'no i was just looking at articles of Kira & L' and that makes Sayu go 'oh yeah! you're gonna be a detective in future so being the nerdy brother of mine that you are you're studying for that, too. wow.' LIKE SHE DOESN'T EVEN QUESTION IT FOR A SECOND. She just knows that Light's statement is true at its face value & since she knows him well: therefore I raise you ACE Light.

Then this exchange between Ryuk & Light:

Ryuk makes a reference to finger-banging and Light's response? 'Looks are all that count!' Light is so ace it's cute haha.

Instance #3:

Light looks at p0rno mags and Soichiro is SHOCKED. Now of course it's because he thinks that Light was too upstanding/well-behaved for this sorta thing but I cannot help but wonder... if Light being interested at looking at girls that way, might've seemed a lil too far-fetched to Soichiro. And just how is Light looking at the scantily-clad women? Take a look:

Of course, Light's goal is to pretend that this is why he was checking if anyone entered his room and yet he cannot look more disinterested. It's not convincing that he'd go all through the trouble of ensuring nobody entered his room and look like -_- towards the p0rno mags he had tried so hard to hide. He's in the privacy of his room (yes there are hidden cameras & no Light isn't meant to know about them) and the least he can do in what I remind you that it's a Shonen manga which means that it's targeted towards young male teens so they couldn't show him jerking off or anything is to look like he's interested/attracted to these women but nope.

Light with all his acting skills cannot manage to look interested (let alone sexually interested) in women shown in these mags. So Light is not straight confirmed. Ace Light strikes AGAIN.

This is just an aside:

Ace!Light is done with Ryuk & the ridiculous sexual positions he comes up with for Light & L lol.

Another aside:

"Misa: Hey, Light. Wanna come sleep with me tonight?

Light: Wh-what are you talking about…?

Misa: Ha ha ha! Just kidding! You're saving me for after we catch Kira, right? You don't have to be shy about it!

L: Yes, Light. There's no need to be shy.

Light: I'm not being shy!

L: No need to be so serious either."

Hahaha look at L & Misa bullying our dear ace!Light XD

Instance #4 (sorta):

If we needed more proof of Light not being straight- it's that look on Sachiko's face. She is positively stunned haha.

Instance #5:

Here is Misa hinting at something (presumably romantic/sexual) they'd do under covers and Light just completely dismissing it with a 'whatever'. #ace light

Canon shows us again & again how disinterested Light is in dating women (he does so only for achieving his Kira goals). Canon also hasn't hinted at Light preferring to date men (no offense to those who headcanon Light as gay as I'm one of those people (i hc him as homoromantic asexual)). So it's logical to assume that Light is ace. Yeah yeah I know you don't really need canon basis for your headcanons but as I said before Ace Light is more than just a headcanon to me :D

Oh and Light being an 'ace student' is literally canon ;)

[memethebum]

Finally got another fluffy lil oneshot out!!

—————————————————————————

Soul knew his life would change in a few substantial ways after their battle against Asura on the moon.

He’d expected to have an absolute awful time going about certain changes, but had ultimately found that the most annoying part of using his familial surname and being named the last Deathscythe was really just having to remind people that Maka was the one that’d honed him into reaching his full potential thank you very much and being very vocal about having no real desire to play in front of anyone for the time being.

The rest of his life was left relatively unchanged, which meant that most his days were filled with finishing his classes or cleaning up the cuts and bruises both he and his meister had earned through the missions they were assigned.

However, what he wasn’t prepared for were the last few hurdles that came before he and his peers would finally be able to graduate.

He’d tried not to let out an audible groan when Sid and Stein had announced that their super final exam would be graded by combining the scores of both the meister and weapon in a pair, causing him to look over his shoulder and feel his blood immediately run cold once noticing the fiery look in Maka’s emerald eyes.

The decision had ultimately left his final weeks of school as a boot camp for raising his C student status into a A- status at the very least in order to appease his obstinate meister.

“One more day and then I’m fuckin’ free,” Soul had mumbled into Maka’s pillow cover the night before the exam as Maka flipped through the pages of a study book she’d bought during the beginning of the school year.

He’d expected her to let out a small giggle or simply give him a sarcastic eye roll but had been met with a mischievous smile once she raised her head from the textbook to gaze into his scarlet eyes.

“I think I know a way to make this more exciting…” Maka then exclaimed as Soul watched her reach over towards her bedside table and fumble her hand around before eventually retrieving a stick of chapstick Liz had bought him after exclaiming he needed to delve into some extra measures to please the missus.

“Oh really? Does it involve more flashcards?” Soul snorted back while watching his meister pull the cap off the stick of chapstick and gingerly swipe the honey scented wax over her lips.

“Nope. It’s much simpler than that…” Maka hummed, probing Soul to prop himself up on one of his elbows and let out a simple ohh in response to her statement.

“I’ll give you a kiss for every question you get right on the study guide,” Maka then finished before Soul raised his eyebrows at the offer as he watched his girlfriend run one of her fingers over her tantalizing lips.

I hate how good of a strategy that is… Soul then thought while his vision trickled down towards Maka’s lips once more, which only heightened his thoughts about how feeling her lips against his own seemed to be a high his years of unrelenting pining could’ve never done justice to.

“I gotta deal with memorizing 30 pages of notes and now I’ve gotta earn a kiss from my girlfriend? You’re really trynna’ kill me this weekend, huh?” Soul replied with a faux groan of agony before Maka slid open her bedside drawer and flung a thick pile of flashcards onto her bed.

“If you don’t like that idea, we could always practice with these,” the young woman replied while using one of her fingers to toy with the large rubber band that kept the index cards in a neat and imposing stack.

“I’m jokin’, I’m jokin. Let’s play your lil’ game,” Soul then murmured before watching Maka’s lips turn into a grin while she shimmied herself across her smooth mattress until she was snug against his chest.

“Ok…let’s start with an easy one. Name a famous inventor that shaped Shibusen’s academic structure,” Maka questioned as she buried her face closer towards Soul’s chest, causing him to let out a giggle.

“That’s a lil’ too easy. Eibon, duh…” the Deathscythe exclaimed before noticing Maka angle her head upwards until the taste of wax and honey glided across the right corner of his lips.

“Good job! I guess we can move on to something more challenging. Hmm, how many countries engage in student referrals for Shibusen?” the young woman then hummed while gazing back down at her study book, leaving Soul to gingerly slide his fingers across her flaxen strands of hair.

“400,” the young man replied before feeling Maka place a quick peck onto his nose.

“You finally got that one right,” Maka beamed, only to slot her lips against Soul’s before he could even give her a witty response.

“Mmm, ok question three…” his girlfriend then huffed out as he prepared himself to keep sifting through the plethora of information she’d shoved into his cranium over the week.

“What’s the acronym that describes the proper way to dispose of a pre-kishin soul?” Maka read aloud, forcing Soul to let out a grunt as his concentration seemed to diminish the more he thought about the question.

Fuck, I don’t remember that bein’ on the study guide… Soul mentally noted while watching Maka’s lips turn into a pout at his lack of an immediate answer.

“I dunno’ Earn.A.Treat or somethin’?” the Deathscythe coughed out before Maka shook her head and then shuffled one of her hands through the stack of flashcards laying on the edge of her bed.

“Nope, it’s Absorb.Or.Supervise, so AOS for short,” Maka added as Soul gently reached down and traced his thumb across one of her cheekbones.

“I don’t suppose I could get a free kiss for that one, considerin’ it wasn’t on the study guide?” the Deathscythe probed, earning him a chuckle from Maka before he felt her plop the stack of flashcards onto his lap.

“It might’ve not been on the study guide, but it was definitely in the flashcards, so no kisses for you,” Maka tittered, eliciting Soul to let out a groan and pry the textbook out of her hands.

“Oh yea, if you’re so sure of yourself why don’t I quiz ya’ instead?” Soul grumbled, knowing full well that Maka had not only memorized all of the flashcards in that insufferable stack she’d compiled but had also reread their textbook at least three times by now in hopes of earning a perfect score for their final test.

The Deathscythe then watched as Maka’s eyebrows furrowed at the question, only for his face to morph into a devious grin once she shrugged her shoulders at him.

“Try me…” his girlfriend responded before Soul let out a low chuckle at how easily she had taken the bait.

I wonder if she knows I’m cheatin’ the system.. the Deathscythe mentally noted while flipping through Maka’s study book and ultimately landing his eyes on a set of questions sprawled on the page.

Eh, doesn’t matter which one I choose. It’s all gonna lead to the same thing…

“Alright, question one. Which continent has the greatest population of individuals with a sword transformation gene?” Soul questioned before feeling Maka rest her head against his midriff and release a languid hum.

“Europe,” the young woman immediately responded, probing Soul to let out a jubilant chuckle as he reached down and placed a small peck against the crook of her neck.

“Question two. Name a famous individual who had once been a meister for Shibusen,” the young man then mumbled into Maka’s neck, only to feel her swat a hand against his head a moment afterwards.

“Ugh, you could at least check the study book to see if the first one was right. As for the second one, I’m gonna go with Albert Einstein,” Maka added, causing Soul to release a quick chuckle before placing a chaste kiss onto her jaw.

“Why would I need to check the book when I’ve got the smartest girlfriend in the universe?” the Deathscythe sang in between a quick peck onto the back of Maka’s palm and then her wrist.

“Mmmm you’re just using this as an excuse to get more kisses, aren’t you,” Maka replied before Soul felt the warmth of her palms smack against the sides of his face, serving as his sign to look down and notice her mildly irked expression.

“Ok ok last question,” Soul breathed out while feeling his girlfriend’s fingers begin to slide away from his stubbled chin as he rested his forehead against her own.

“Who’s gonna get a perfect score tommorow?” the young man rumbled out before feeling his heart begin to skip a few beats as Maka giggled against his touch.

“We are,” his girlfriend exclaimed before catching his lips on her own once more, although this time she’d decided to step things up another level by sliding a firm hand onto the back of Soul’s head as she gasped between their lips moving against one another.

It didn’t take long for Soul to notice that they’d somehow become tangled in a pile of limbs and needy hands ontop Maka’s satin bedsheets, causing him to let out another groan while his girlfriend nibbled on his lower lip before sighing against him once they both decided to pull away.

The Deathscythe could feel his breathing begin to even out while Maka nuzzled herself into the crook of his neck, allowing him to stretch out his arm in order to wrap it across her shoulder and hold them snug together.

“I’m gonna miss this…” Maka eventually murmured, probing Soul to dip his head down in order to lay his chin ontop of her scalp and let out a hmmm in confusion.

“Y’know, just having enough free time to relax like this. Papa was pretty busy as Lord Death’s Deathscythe, so you’re probably going to be pretty busy being Kid’s weapon-“

“Hey hey, it’s gonna be ok,” Soul hummed over the young woman as he felt her fingers scratch against the loose fabric of his t-shirt with every word she’d uttered out.

“Me n’ Kid both decided that I’d just be his personal prop if we partnered up, so I’d only be needed for special events. Plus, I think Liz would come after my ass if I just took her and Patty’s job like that,” Soul giggled out while he pushed a few of Maka’s sleek bangs aside in order to have a clear view of her cool emerald eyes shooting up to gaze at him.

“You…really mean all that? You’re not just saying it to make me feel better, right? Maka then questioned, eliciting Soul to fidget his arms around until he could gently fit his fingers between each of Maka’s knuckles.

“Course’ not. Our partnership is the most important thing to me, Maka. And besides, I said I’d follow ya’ to the ends of the earth, didn’t I?”

[storytellering]

When and how did you discover DMC? And what makes you love the franchise?

Ohh, great question anon! Personally I was always kinda peripherally aware of DMC as a franchise - when I was early in middle school (around 10/11) I started really getting into anime and manga, and that was before I really spoke fluent english that much, so I was primarily looking for stuff that was either dubbed or subtitled in my native language - there was one TV channel that broadcasted dubbed anime, and it was really not that many back in the day... but somehow, the dmc TV anime was one of those! I really loved it, and I must've rewatched it a billion times - it was one of the late night programs so I remember sneaking out past my bedtime to plug my headphones into the TV and watch it, haha. But still, I didn't own any game consoles, and I didn't know how to use the internet too well yet, so all I could do was think "oh, dmc sounds so cool, sure wish I could actually play the games and get more context some time.", and it kinda stayed that way for the rest of my life! In 2019, even though it was completely out of my immediate sphere, I heard word of dmc5 out on the internet, and though I'd forgotten most of what I'd gathered back in middle school with the anime, I did remember it being something I'd been peripherally interested in for a long time, and then - I admit it, I was startstruck by how hot the main 3 characters looked on the cover art, LMAO. I still couldn't play most games (all I had was the aforementioned nds, a wii u, and and older mac laptop), BUT exactly for that reason I'd learned to just watch playthroughs of the games I was interested in - and i was immediately interested in dmc5, like I said at a glance just bc every character was very attractive to me, but you know how it is, my dick has lead me to places I wouldn't even go with a gun, etc etc. I just had this almost fugue state moment of reading everything I could on the wiki about the plot, the lore and the characters, saving a cutscene movie video of the game to watch later, and being SO into how pretty much every ship would be incestuous and very drawn to what that would entail for the characters, going on a fic reading binge..... and then literally forgetting ALL about it within the week. Like, literally, if you'd asked me if any of that had happened before I actually properly got into dmc, I'm not sure I would've been able to remember that happening at all. AND THEN, finally, this backstory comes to a head in december 2020/january 2021 - that was the year where I got my first job, (i know, what a year to do that, LMAO. it was a waiter job too) so for the first time in my life I had a little bit of extra money to spend, and so I decided to get myself a ps4 as a christmas gift so I could finally catch up with all the franchises I'd been wanting so bad to get into but had missed out on, or those I'd had to get into via watching someone else play, and could finally experience firsthand. DMC5 was one of the very first games I got myself - and I still have texts with my best friend from that time to remind me exactly when the very first time I booted the game was (january 15th, 2021). I'd like to say it was love at first sight, but it actually... kinda wasn't. I had forgotten most of my past interest, and at the time, I just kinda experienced it as a game that was really fun, really cool, and kinda put to the back of my mind (though I will say - my immediate reaction WAS that I'd genuinely, honestly never had that much fun playing a game before. Like - maybe it's because I hadn't really played any console game up to that point, but... video games had always been something that, while i was really interested in, I just kinda suffered through to experience a story, or something I powered through because I wanted to see it through to the end, actively enjoying the process on the way there was rare, for me - and dmc was genuinely just fun. Even without the plot to drive it forwards, I liked playing it just to play it, and that was like an INSANE concept to me back then lol).

(I'll have to continue this in a RB bc it turned out I have way too much to say and going way over the character limit WHOOPS stay tuned lol)

[spooky-bunnys]

Part 2 for south

So since plan a failed he decides to go with plan b buying the perfect apology gift

Little does he know the reader is out minding he’s business maybe doing some shopping for himself and the reader crosses paths with imma say is an gang enemy of south’s gang (if that makes any senses) and before the gang member can land a hit on the reader he’s immediately taken down by south with just one punch (since he is strong and unrelated note he’s like 7 feet tall)

Teehee~ Enjoy!!!

Just a friend

Part 2

South was extremely frustrated. It's been over a week and (Name) still hasn't come back to him. After his failed attempt to serenade him. He figured since plan A failed he'll go for plan B. Apology gift. So here he was. Walking down the street. Looking for a gift for (Name).

He knew he should've asked Kakucho or one of the brothers on what to get for (Name). But the trio has been hanging around (Name) more then they used to. Honestly it was upsetting, thinking about how okay (Name) was without him. Not that he'd tell anyone but....he missed (Name). He missed the cuddles. The way (Name) hung off him. The way (Name) always called him those disgustingly cute pet names.

South groaned loudly. He always swore that he'd never get attached. He swore he'd never fall in love. After everything that happened he never wanted to rely on anyone. But here he was attached, in love, and relying on someone. It was official. He needed his (Name) back. South ran a hand down his face and sighed.

This love stuff is harder then he was hoping for. South walked into a random store and started looking around. He noticed there was manga on the shelf. He perked up. (Name) loved manga. He was always carrying one in his school bag. South smiled faintly. He remembers last time they cuddled. (Name) was reading the newest manga he had. He wouldn't stop talking about how the couple reminded him of them.

The smaller guy was always getting in trouble and the bigger one would always save him. (Name) used to call him his knight in blond armor. South chuckled sourly. He missed those times. When South gets him back he won't let him go again...well if he gets him back. South frowned. No. He was getting (Name) back. He wouldn't stop until he does.

South shook his head. Skimming through different Mangas trying to find one (Name) would like. He stopped when he heard arguing. He rolled his eyes. It wasn't any of his business. He went to walk away until he heard a voice he knew. Very well. "Dude literally let me go!" (Name). "No way. This is a prime moment. South's bitch by himself. Without his guard dogs. I can't pass that up."

Oh hell no. Absolutely fucking not happening. South stomped towards the voices. Nobody puts their hands on his boyfriend and survives. Calling him a bitch? It'll be a quick death. When South arrive he realized three things. One, (Name)'s lip was busted, bruises everywhere, blood running down his face. Two, a busted pipe and guys surrounding the two. Finally, the guys surrounding and holding him were from a rival gang that South didn't even try to remember.

South slowly marched his way towards the arguing duo. Not only did they call him a bitch, grabbed him, but they made him Bleed? Oh. South smirked evily. This was gonna be fun. When he made his way behind the gang member, the guy stopped. (Name) looked over the guys shoulder and smiled brightly. South gripped the back of the guys neck. His grip was tight. Making sure he wouldn't get away.

"What. Did. You. Call. Him?" South's hold got tighter. The guys began struggling. Releasing (Name)'s wrist letting him back away. Rubbing the place (Name) knew would bruise. Well. (Name) looked over himself. He was gonna be covered in bruises anyways. He looked up when he heard a heavy thud. South had his knee dug in the guys back. His grip on the guys neck still tight.

South frowned deeply. "So let me get this straight. You tried jumping my (Name). Then when he kicked your ass, you tried playing dirty. Then you call him a bitch?" (Name) slowly made his way over and laid his head on South shoulder. South leaned back a little. Giving (Name) a better placing for his head. He knew it was probably hurting him badly.

He could feel the blood seeping into his shirt. When he tried to readjust again he felt (Name) flinch. Oh these guys were dead. Without taking his eyes off the guy under him, he pulled out his phone dialing Kakucho. When he picked up South didn't let him talk. "I need you and the Haitani Brothers to come to (manga store). Also tell Ran to bring (Name)'s pack and a first aid kit." South looked over at (Name) seeing how droopy his eyes are.

"Scratch the first aid kit. Just get here quick." He ended the call and held the phone behind him. "(Name)? I know you want to sleep but I need you awake and to call your brothers okay?" He barely felt (Name) nod when his phone was taken out of his hand. He heard clicking before ringing. He heard a voice before his phone hit the floor. South felt (Name)'s body get heavy and knew he'd passed out.

Clicking his tongue in anger. South grabbed his phone putting it to his ear. "Which twin am I speaking to?" "Hey! What the fuck are you doing calling me?!" He knew this was the smiling twin. "Listen. (Name) was jumped by an enemy gang at his favorite manga store. I don't know his exact injuries but I know he has a blow to the head from a pipe." He heard silence on the other end. "Hello?" "YOU MOTHER FUCKER! IF HE HAS ANY BRAIN DAMAGE I'M KILLING YOU NEXT!" The call cut out.

South felt a shiver go down his spine. Now he knows where (Name) got his temper. Few moments later he heard a dig from the front with multiple fast moving foot steps. Kakucho, the Haitani brothers, and the Kawata twins froze at the scene before quickly getting into action. The twin immediately made their way to their brother. Checking him over while the other three made their way to South. Anger written on their faces.

The brothers started tying the members up while Kakucho tied the leader up. Still being kneed by South. When they were tied up Ran called the rest of the gang about collecting the gang that was tied up. South looked behind him at the twins. He saw worry all over their faces. "I can take him to the hospital." Their head snapped to South. Worry replaced by anger. They blamed him. He knew they did

The angry faced twin got (Name) on his back before making his way out of the store quickly. The usually smiling on stayed. "We'll take him and...." He sighed lookin down before looking back at South. "And I'll let you know what they say and what room he's in once it's settled." South rose a brow confused. They'd let him see (Name). "It's only because you saved him. What happens afterwards is all (Name)." The other twin quickly made his way after his brothers.

South looked at the trio behind him. "Do what you want with them." The brothers smirked. "But" they frowned. "Him." South pointed at the leader who was gagged and glaring hatefully at them. "He's mine to deal with." The trio nodded and soon members started showing to take the rival gang to the hideout. They avoided looking at their leader. Already knowing how upset he is. South frowned and looked around him before noticing a book on the floor.

It was the next manga book in the series (Name) was reading. South picked it up and paid for it before making his way to his bike. He heard the others behind him but paid no mind to them. He sat on his bike for a while before his phone buzzed. It was a text from some number with an address and a three digit number on it. He knew that address. It was the hospital down the road from (Name)'s house.

South looked at the members behind him and nodded before speeding off towards the hospital. When he arrived he parked his bike turning it off and getting off in a speed he didn't know he had. Making his way inside South ignored everything around him. His sight laid on the elevator. He opened is phone looking at the numbers before clicking a floor. He put his phone away staring forward.

Please be okay. Please be okay. Please be okay. The saying kept repeating in South's head the whole elevator ride. Once the doors opened again he made his way to the room (Name) was in. Once again ignoring everything around him. All he cared about was making sure (Name) was okay. He can't explain the relief he felt when he made his way into the room. (Name) was awake softly talking to his brothers.

Bandages wrapped around him. The thickest bandages were wrapped around his chest and head. South quickly made his way to the side of (Name)'s bed. When (Name) saw him his face brighten. He looked so happy to see him. "Hey babe." South felt his shoulders drop. That's what he's been waiting for. That damn pet name. South smiled softly and kissed (Name)'s temple.

(Name) winced since that's where the pipe hit him. South quietly apologized and kissed the top of his head. "What's the damage?" The peach haired brother interrupted. "He has a concussion. A broken rib. Two fractured ribs and sprung right wrist." South nodded. Okay. Could've been worse. Could've been WAY worse. But his (Name) is okay. South slowly sat on the side on the bed. (Name) scooted making room for him.

The twins watched the interaction. They shared a look. South had two stikes. If he made a third strike? Smiley popped his neck. Angry cracked his knuckles. (Name) looked over at the two from his spot cuddled in South's side confused. His brothers brushed him off. Gave their own soft smiles and (Name) shrugged. Snuggling back into South's side releasing a breath.

Bonus:

"Am I still just a friend?"

*WHACK*

"Ow! Sorry...."

[suna1suna1]

Never Like in the Books | MD Oneshot

Finale spoilers!

Angst

N/V (kinda, one-sided)

N/Uzi (Background)

Just a little bit of angst, but it's not too sad I don't think. I have a goal for after this, and it's semi-related to this fic I posted yesterday

V didn't like talking about it much, but she was a book nerd. She enjoyed reading a lot of things, but... weirdly enough, she hated sad endings. Maybe it was because they reminded her too much of her own life. Her and N's story had ended the moment the Solver had come into their lives. They just didn't notice. 

Well, V didn't think N had ever noticed that it had even started. 

Not that it mattered now. At least she could escape into books, where no one disappointed you. Where the hero always got whomever they were in love with, always had more people in love with them than they knew what to do with. In books, V could escape herself. Could escape the memories and the Solver and... Become a little closer to whom she used to be. 

"Hey!" 

She looked up from her book to find N sitting on the floor next to her in the landing pod, grinning. "Watcha reading?" 

V narrowed her eyes, more out of habit now than any real malice. Uzi had been the primary Solver host for a while now, and she seemed to be keeping it well under control. That, and Cyn was dead. She no longer had any reason to keep N at arms length, but she still caught herself doing it. 

Not that it had ever really worked. N had a weird way of worming his way into everyone's hearts. Except J's, though V had never understood her hatred of him even in the mansion. 

"Nothing," she replied. "Just some trash I found in their bags." V gestured to a couple of frozen human corpses she'd dragged into the pod. One of them had been wearing a cute skirt that was surprisingly in decent condition, and if Lizzy didn't want it, V certainly did. 

The "trash" in question was a dystopian YA novel, and honestly, it was pretty decent. The characters were okay, and the plot was cool. All in all, she would rate it a solid three point five out of five. 

N tilted his head to try and get a look at the cover. "Could I borrow it when you're done with it?" he asked. 

V shrugged. "Sure. But isn't Uzi trying to show you that one manga where like, the humans have to eat other humans and stuff? I don't know, I wasn't listening when she tried to tell me about it." 

"She is! But we can't find the next volume." 

"Oh, that's always the worst." 

N groaned. "Right? And we left off on a huge cliffhanger!" 

"What was it called again?" V asked. If she knew the name she might be able to help them find a copy somewhere. 

"I... I forgot." 

V laughed quietly. "Don't let Uzi catch you saying that," she said. 

N chuckled, then his smile faded. "You haven't really been around much. Are you doing okay, V?" 

Wow... That was abrupt. 

V sighed. "Kinda?" she said. "It's... weird that Cyn's just... gone. You know? I spent... so long doing everything I could to protect you from her, to appease her just so she wouldn't kill you. And I guess... I feel... kinda useless now. Like, my whole reason for holding on, for still existing, is gone." 

"Well, that's kinda cool, isn't it?" N said. "You get to choose what you want to do!" 

V smiled and shook her head. "Yeah, but that's just it. I have no clue what I want to do. Well... Actually, I do know, but it's not happening so like... Who cares?" 

"I do," N replied. "What is it?" 

V looked at him, and she immediately realized that was a mistake because he was giving her the damn puppy eyes. She sighed. "It's nothing," she said. "Like I said, it's not happening." 

"You don't know that!" 

"Yeah, I think I do, N." You're already with her. "Can I read my book now?" 

N seemed to deflate, and even though she'd seen that look over and over again through the years, it still made her core feel like it was breaking in two. "Okay," he said. "You still up for that scavenging run later?" 

V nodded and turned back to her book, and N stood up and left the pod. 

Yeah, she got enough sad endings in her life. What was one more onto the pile? 

[mtdthoughts]

The Twins' Departure (Migi & Dali Thought)

The reader may or may not know this, but I also have an account on Twitter/X. Originally, I used it to just follow my favorite users from the Japanese fanbase of Migi & Dali. Eventually, I became a bit more active there. I had a lot of fun doing this, and a few of the fans that I followed actually interacted with me! I only wish that I had done all this back in October of 2023.

Oh well, it is what it is...

One of the aforementioned Twitter/X users (074gnRONSU) posted a keen observation that I missed. Do note that the post is in Japanese, so you may need a translator for this.

Anyway, Ronsu pointed out that the twins might not have left Origon Village right after they found out about Metry's death on Christmas Eve.

Although the anime shows them burying her on that night, the original story in the manga isn't very clear about this. In fact, they might not even have buried her right away, since I'd imagine it would be very difficult for a 4/5-year-old to firmly grasp the concept of death, especially their own mother's.

In fact, they may have waited at the cliff for a long time after taking her back, hoping that maybe one day she would wake up from what seemed like a long, long slumber. If that's the case, then that is way sadder than I originally thought...

This idea is hinted at with the following images, where the first two are from Chapter 6, and the third is the cover of Chapter 44, likely a reference to the second image.

The first image shows the twins with their mother looking at the Christmas lights in Origon Village. Also, notice that the tree where they found her dead body has no leaves.

Meanwhile, the second image shows the twins by themselves, looking at Origon Village with what appears to be blossoms scattering in the wind. Notice that there are no Christmas lights, and the tree where they found her dead body now has its leaves grown back.

Given that this image is shown as the twins remind themselves of their revenge, I infer that this moment was when they finally decided to leave Origon Village, specifically some time during the spring (maybe April?). They might not have understood what revenge was, but certainly they left knowing that their mother would never be with them again.

Coincidentally, this seems to be around the same time of year when they found her button on April 4th in Chapter 14. Perhaps this is meant to be the 7th anniversary of the day that they left Origon Village? Maybe their birthday as well?

Anyway, the idea that the twins left the following spring after they buried Metry makes more sense now as it really captures their loss of innocence as they came to terms with their grievous loss.

That's all I had for this post.

Bonus: If all this is true, then this means I made some rather embarrassing mistakes when writing my fanfiction! Hopefully, these can be fixed rather easily.

Credits to Ronsu on Twitter/X for this discovery, and if you're on the platform I would highly recommend following them! Ronsu's art is really good too!

[nothingtoseehere1-2-3]

the true meaning of strength

A/N: Hi! It's me again back with another pairing....this is an Akaza x F!Y/N pairing, and I hope you enjoy!

warnings: profanity and some violence and slight manga spoilers idk ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ not to mention character death and also HEAVY ANGSTTTTT ;-; so if you don't like really really sad stuff then ✨goodbye my friend, keep on scrolling✨

Your footsteps echoed throughout the vast forest and leaves crunched beneath your feet, a flickering lantern clenched in your sweaty palm.

Suddenly...

BOOMF.

Your body collided with another, causing you to stumble backward, trip on a twig and fall backward onto your bottom. You look up to see a man, standing at five foot eight towering over your small frame. His hair was a light pinkish-orange color, his entire body covered in strange blue markings. His eyes were irregular, the sclera a light blue that reminded you of the sky. Engraved in his yellow pupils, was the kanji for 'Upper Three'.

Oh, wait.

Shit!

This was a demon....an upper rank demon....Upper Three, at that! You weren't sure what to do...run? Talk to it? Oh, why would you think of having conversation with a killing machine?! You scrambled to your feet, running a few feet back in the direction where you came, only to stop short when your lantern's light flickered out completely. "Dammit!" You swore out loud, then squeaked slightly and turned to face the demon that was still there behind you.

"Why are you outside so late? It's dangerous....especially for a woman."

Um. Weird. He was concerned? Okay....

"Um, I was actually going home......before I bumped into you....." You trailed off, still sort of uncomfortable you were making conversation with a man-eating demon.

"Very well." The demon suddenly walked away, leaving you flabbergasted. You didn't get his name, but that shouldn't matter...you won't see him again...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dammit.

That was your first thought after seeing the demon again, almost six weeks after your first (quite embarrassing) encounter. You didn't even know why you were pissed off, you didn't have anything against him personally! Yet!

He seemed to notice you, and turned around.

"You again..."

You blink, taken aback by the underlying attitude.

"Um yeah it's me again. Anyway I never got your name. Who even are you??"

You might have said too much. Shit.

"I am Akaza, Upper Three of the 12 Kizuki."

"I'm Y/N L/N."

He nods. You decide to ask something you've been pondering for a bit...

"Why didn't you kill me? I'm a human, and you're supposed to kill humans..."

"I don't hurt women."

Oh.

Okay.

Good to know. You manage a small smile, and can't help but giggle at the pink blush that spread across the demon's--Akaza's--cheeks.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

(Time Skip)

As the weeks passed, you and Akaza became closer. Weeks turned into months, and you two became best friends. You were able to bring light back into his life even after the death of his betrothed, Koyuki, when he was human. You two spent every day together, either to run around in the starry meadows, or to look at the moon, or just talk. It wasn't long before Akaza began catching feelings for you, and he wanted to tell you, more than anything, but didn't have the courage to.

On the day he decided to finally tell you, it was a dreary, rainy day with fierce weather. You didn't dare leave your house, for the unforgiving conditions would surely seep through your kimono like it was paper and chill your bones. As Akaza trudged through the rain on the roads and in the woods' clearings, his skin was crawling with a bad premonition, the same sensation he had just moments before finding out Koyuki had died all those centuries ago.

He sped up now, scared for your wellbeing. Even several yards from your home, the rainwater on the ground was mixed with red...mixed with blood.

Bursting into your home, he was met by a gruesome sight of your home destroyed, a demon sitting above your lifeless form, eating away at your flesh as the blood pooled on the ground.

His eyes widened in horror, his breath hitching as he took in the scene before him...

He just lost another loved one. First his father, then Keizo and Koyuki, then you. This wasn't fair, he might have been a demon, but this was too much.

The only thing he thought, as he looked down at your body with tears streaming down his cheeks, his sobs echoing throughout your now-empty house, is that he failed to protect another person he loved. He didn't even get to tell you he did love you! But if he was even a fraction of how strong he always said he was, he knew he'd have to keep moving, not to give up because of your death.

No matter how much it may hurt.

[anueutsuho]

ANOTHER LONG PREDICTION (I'm starting to think I've written more on this than ZUN did):

Oh yeah, I do think a lot of what is currently happening in Detective Satori is part of some larger plan by Yukari. Every other Touhou manga has had one of the sages be instrumental to its final arc.

Mizuchi has already proven to be a danger to Gensokyo's very existence... but not for the reasons we previously believed. It's not because of how particularly powerful she is. Many vengeful spirits are easily contained. It's because of what she's mad about. Her anger is at Gensokyo's very existence, which means that unless she's pacified in some way, she'll never really stop.

And it really only makes sense that Yukari knows the real reason that Mizuchi is vengeful and is just actively covering it up. I don't think Yukari wants to redeem Mizuchi out of the kindness of her heart or anything. She's simply pragmatic enough to realize that Mizuchi needs to be properly "introduced" into Gensokyo for the land to accept her. And, for Mizuchi to accept Gensokyo, if that's possible.

Many people have noted the lack of fanfare surrounding Yukari being possessed by Mizuchi (though they're wrong, it's mentioned multiple times how Yukari being possessed pretty much meant that nobody is safe and that Mizuchi is a Big Deal). Now that we know how deep Mizuchi's grudge goes, it raises even more questions regarding that. Some people have suggested Yukari is at least not directly guilty of whatever Mizuchi is mad about besides her founding Gensokyo. Also, it's clear Mizuchi is prejudiced enough against Gensokyo's youkai that she doesn't really blame any individual among them more than the others.

Basically, Yukari agreed to seal away Old Hell to prevent Mizuchi from just running away from everyone she saw. She'll have to meet at least SOMEONE there that she'll be able to get up close and personal with. Mizuchi will become genuine friends with a youkai of Gensokyo and realize that many of them have issues with the way Gensokyo is run, too. She'll begin to think she has an actual home in Old Hell.

And I do believe it might end with Yuugi and Mizuchi beating the crap out of Reimu until she surrenders. Simply winning against the Hakurei Shrine might mitigate Mizuchi's grudge enough for her to back off. It just reminds me of Hopeless Masquerade with Kokoro defeating Reimu and resolving her own issues with a little help from Mamizou. I don't think Yukari cares if Mizuchi beats Reimu or not. Either way, you can say "because Reimu was there, Mizuchi won't be causing as many problems now". The grudge of Miyadeguchi against Hakurei will be acknowledged by both parties, and Gensokyo won't just have to deal with a single vengeful spirit attacking every so often.

[takeshitakyuuto]

Trigun Book Club update volume 2/3/who knows

One more week until Trigun Maximum! Then my volume numbers won’t be off :’)

I feel like every time I sat down to read this time around, I got interrupted. Anyways, this is a long one, so buckle up

Ch 13. get his ass cobbler-san

Yaaaaaay ice cream on Vash! Me too me too!

Quite the introduction for Mr. Collarbones

I’m sorry that it’s just kinda funny to me whenever characters call Vash by his full name. That’s Mr. ヴァッシュ・ザ・スタンピード to you

Knives! Your reputation precedes you

I love when Vash puts on his shooting glasses and immediately my spotify switches to FFXIV battle music

Okay so maybe I kinda spoiled myself probably not really, since the beginning I’ve had the question (that the reader is obviously supposed to have) of why does Vash have such a big bounty on his head, but I saw someone say that he’s the Jesus character of Trigun and like. okay question answered I know enough about Christianity to fill in the blanks here, anyways with that it mind it’s really interesting to see how Vash mentions that his goal is to send Knives to hell

This guy kinda reminds me of that guy from Yu Gi Oh. Kaiba? Yeah Kaiba

12 pieces of coin, twelve assassins, twelve disciples. im making big brain connections here (joking)

There’s a ...head in that bag? [insert “so no head” gif]

Ch 13.5 [I think this is an extra chapter] i like the little background we’re getting on Vash and the visuals with him standing over the mass amounts of crosses like a graveyard is really cool

Alright cut it out Nightow we don’t need to get weird here

Even though I rarely read manga digitally anymore, I feel so spoiled with how much manga is published online nowadays. These very obvious scans of paper volumes is so much harder to read, I’m sounding out like half the words I read

You know that chapter of Kino’s Journey (okay I know you don’t bear with me here) where Kino goes to that country where everyone is obsessed with this one guy’s painting of tanks and they’re all like “it says so much about war and society” and then Kino meets the painter and he’s all like “nah I just think tanks are really cool”. Yeah that painter is Nightow

Which is more elegant, this girl’s dress of Vash’s coat tails?

Has Vash always worn an earring? Have I just never noticed? I see but don’t look? How coquette

The interspersed English that Nightow uses always adds a bit of humor. I’m not even a translator but sometimes I think about what I would do with those bits. Would I keep it to make extra work? Would I translate it into a different language that’s more commonly understood than Japanese but not English (such as Spanish)? Translations are weird man....

Vash has the best pouting face of all time

Okay sorry I said a lot in that chapter but I don’t think any of it was serious. Not that that was a very important chapter anyways, other than the bits of world building we got at the very beginning

Volume three! Ch 14. Omg I see that big cross in the cover. Do we get to meet Nicholas Wolfwood himself? God I hope I’m right and he’s the one with the cross because I’m blasting this post for the Trigun Scholars to see. Blease be kind I know so little

Seems like this volume or at least this chapter is going to be a lot of Vash vs Kaiba

So we’re seeing Rem’s death scene and how it displays her love for humanity, sacrificing herself to save some, even if she can’t save everyone. And seeing that Knives has been a bit fucked from the beginning huh. And why Vash hates him so much (cue Losing My Religion by REM playing in the back)

Vash is typically painted as an angelic type of character (thinking back to chapter nine[?] with the angel/plant they met on the sand steam) so having him depicted more as a devil character is really interesting. They even called this his true nature, although that could just be this villain character giving him shit. I’m excited to see how Vash’s character is fleshed out in future volumes and how these seemingly two sides of him create a whole

Ch 15. I don’t know (yet?) if Knives’ plan was to kill Rem along with a bunch of humans but damn. backfiredddd

So this spirit/angel urging Vash not to kill must be Rem right? Since he said that if he kills here, she’ll be gone for real? I’m taking this to be more of Vash’s memory of her and not a literal angel or spirit

Ch 16. I was totally about to rag on them for having all this insane technology and Meryl still having to use a typewriter but then I remembered that this series is from what. the 80s? Earlier? Honestly who could’ve imagined the technology we’d have in just twenty years from then, it’s insane.

Oh that’s cool! Vash is called “Humanoid Typhoon” right? It’s usually written as 「人間台風」which literally translates to human typhoon but at the beginning of this chapter, Meryl calls him 「人間災害」with furigana instructing the reader to read it as “humanoid typhoon” (same as with the other times), however this translates to “human disaster” rather than typhoon

One coin part down, eleven to go...

We’ve finally officially established that Vash has a prosthetic arm, I was wondering when that was gonna happen

First of all what is Vash carrying with him second of all holy shit that panel of the person(?) nailed on the cross

That thing was set up specifically for him? Is this another one of the twelve assassins? I feel like I’m gonna get bored of this set up real quick if it continues on like this

oh man I’m struggling with the blurriness of this volume, I keep messing up さ and き in the furigana and if anything’s got a dakuten I’m a gonner

Ch 17. I bet these poor citizens see someone in an over the top ridiculous outfit and just think to themselves, aw man this bitch is about to blow up the city again. Good thing I renewed my insurance last month

Yaoi proportions are back!

Having the guy who’s pissing you off rip out his own still-beating heart with his own bare hands is pretty badass ngl

Is Kaiba (okay I know his name is Legato but this is funnier) trying to bring about the apocalypse or something? Or rather eradicate enough humans to be able to live peacefully, whether that means all humans or just the ones he considers “evil”? Right now he’s giving me a lot of Light Yagami vibes

Ch 18. Cross guyyyyyy hell yeah. You know, maybe you wouldn’t collapse in the street if you didn’t carry a big ass cross with you everywhere. Just food for thought

Wolfwood speaks in Kansaiben???? Help I’m falling in love it’s my one weakness in this world

I’ve decided that I never want to see Wolfwood written in katakana ever again.

Wolfwood just needs to say あかん and ホンマ and I’m already head over heels

I really like Wolfwood and I promise it’s more than just the Kansaiben! I love how nice he is and he seems to be able to read people pretty well and also he’s kind of a dork. But the Kansaiben helps too

Ch 19. Omg the one guy who I was immediately like 🫵 yaoi proportions ended up being Hornfreak. Yep that’s just how it is

Isn’t it so fun when words you learned from anime pop up elsewhere? There’s “human trafficking,” which I learned from Yona of the Dawn

Oh? It’s Dominique not Dominic? That explains the かしら. Honestly I do like Nightow’s style of “I can’t tell what gender this person is”

Nightow also really likes drawing Vash ass up this is not the time for a dirty joke

Oh my god hes going super sayan also oh my god im so stupid i just closed out of my trigun tab trying to switch jfc

Ch 20. The cat stepped on my laptop and flipped all the images omfg I am having such a time trying to read today oh my god I can’t get it back I guess I’ll just restart my laptop for now? holy shit

Yeah okay closing out of the site didn’t help, restarting my laptop didn’t help, all files were flipped, but luckily someone suggested clearing the cookies for that site and it actually worked. I am so bad with technology. What a ridiculous day.

I’m gonna be honest I don’t know how you all can read this in English, I could only figure out who was speaking based on the fact that Legato used だ where Wolfwood would’ve used や

Lol jump for your coin bitch (Vash I love you but it’s funny I’m sorry)

Wolfwood’s 「ちう」is causing me so much stress. What the hell does that mean, boy. Luckily I have friends in high places (Japan)

I’m so obsessed with the fucked up angel imagery here in Knives’ rebirth

Please no romance between Meryl and Vash please no romance between Meryl and Vash please no r

Guy who only reads shoujo manga: I’m getting a lot of shoujo manga vibes from this (no but really, there’s a bunch of artistic choices in Trigun that I mostly associate with shoujo manga, but I think it has more to do with the age of the manga. Probably Ikeda Riyoko’s influence)

Knives is such an overdramatic bitch, I love that

Angel Vash! The inherent danger of the divine! Although a god can be kind it can also be cruel! Power can be used in many ways and thus is its danger!

We’ve finally established that Vash and this power that Knives brings out of him is the reason why July Town was destroyed. This is probably also the reason why he’s got such a high price on his head

Also really enjoying the implications that these human forms aren’t Vash’s and Knives’ “true” bodies

Extra chapter. Thank god he didn’t shoot the egg oh my god. The irony of consistently taking the lord’s name in vain so much here (term used ironically but also because what else can I say) while reading Nightow’s bible fanfiction just now hit me

I admit it, I totally skimmed that. In my defense, it’s past midnight.

Final thoughts: Having officially finished up the original trilogy, that was pretty damn good! The ending was great (yes, I know there’s much more to go) and quite bittersweet. The pace really picked up for me in this last volume. My only main issue was just friction between me and the genre, which is no one’s fault but my own. I could definitely do for less action scenes, but again, my favorite genre is the “nothing happens” genre. I’m really excited to see where Trigun Maximum takes the series, especially in the ways that these angels/plants are developed. I’m also excited to see more of Knives and Wolfwood and especially how they both interact with Vash, since they obviously have extremely different perceptions of him. I’m not quite sure where the plot is going to go from here, since it seems like Vash took Knives along with him in his disappearance, but I’ll follow Nightow wherever he leads us in this series. What I’m not looking forward to is having to read more of Nightow’s handwriting. God. Even so, somehow it’s still not the worst I’ve seen from mangaka. Oh, also, there was significantly less of that black cat than I expected. I’ll just assume it comes back in Maximum. And (sorry these thoughts are so unordered) wow the art was so stunning, especially there at the end, that I definitely have half a mind to pick up the physicals for my personal collection. Especially with a fanbase revival due to Trigun Stampede, I’d be more shocked if it’s out of print than if it isn’t. Oh and one more thing, we went through three of the twelve coin assassins. Does that mean that we’re going to go through the other nine in Maximum? Also, I’m not quite clear on why Vash has to collect the coin fragments like this is Dragon Ball (disclaimer: never seen or read any of the dragon ball franchise). Was mystical object collection just a trend back then? What’s going to happen, or supposed to, when Vash gets them all? Hopefully this will become clear as the series continues.

[justanothersnakeblog]

My thoughts on Weston College Arc

Episode 1

Wow! This was a fantastic start, like amazing!!! I noticed a couple of scenes out of order, but I actually love how they did it here. The first like 5 minutes reminded me of UP, and the pendulum swing was so mesmerizing.

My favorite sounds were the bells, the pendulum swing, and the crackling of the fireplace, too. I experienced the first episode with headphones on, and it automatically enhanced the experience!

The way MacMillan said “P4!” made me snicker. I wasn't expecting his voice, I'm sorry.

I gasped at its beauty and when Sebastian walked in, I felt his presence! It was demanding and domineering? but welcoming! He looks so damn good, I bit my finger. 🫦

This first episode got me fucking hyped! Oh and “Yes, my lord” with his hair falling out from behind his ear was perfection!

The only nitpick I have is the change from fags to drudges but I understand why and I'll get used to it. It just… feels too vague to me while fag was used for a specific reason since Weston (Eton) is a British school and not because teehee f slur.

Episode 2

I didn't enjoy this one as much as episode 1 but still liked it nonetheless. The animation of the cover, best fucking part! I fucking gasped. Oh and want the fucking tea and the lemon myrtle soufflé glacé… ca cest toujours delish!Seeing

Soma at the end was great!

Episode 3 

Best one yet! I liked that they added a recap. 

I awed when Agni showed up and cried for his master. 🥺 It was better than in the manga! The sound design fucking wowed me once again! 🤩 The hooting, bells, and organ were perfection.

Maurice Cole is more tolerable now re-reading the manga but I still don't like him. His scenes with Soma and Ciel exposing him were funny and satisfying af, cooked to perfection! Edgar breaking his bond and seeing his devastation and his fucking ugly ass were the cherries on top!

The expressions were on point, especially with Maurice Scowl and Ciel's face when he said he wouldn't know what it's like to be a second son, forever untitled. His voice changing from soft and feminine/innocent to his real one was also perfect.

I'm glad they included the elephant scenes because I loved them and the sound the elephant made. It was not as great as the manga, but the scene with MacMillan and Ciel sharing a bed was nice, too.

Ciel is such a manipulative bastard and I love it! I'm glad he shared a laugh with the P4. They're buying his performance and good vibes all around. The organ music playing while he accepts the flower to be Clayton's fag? Magnificent. That devious smile sells it and sets up for a great viewing experience next time. 

The only nitpicks I have are I wished Ciel was asleep while Sebastian rummaged through the trash and the chibi demonstration while Ciel explained vibrations was kept.

Episode 4

The footsteps, clinking of the teacup, and pouring of the tea sounds so clean. The sound design scratches the itch in my brain. The crunch of the bread!

That whole scene under the Swan Gazebo was the best one. I love it when Ciel masks and laughed at Violet, not drawing Greenhill, who got clonked with a piece of bread. I gasped because I knew the scene was coming.

*dramatically gasps for air* That charcoal snapping off and hitting the ground was fucking perfect! 🤩 It didn't disappoint me one bit! This sound design is fucking fire and crisp as hell! They really sold me on this whole scene.

I've been looking forward to this scene as well as a few others. It captured the intensity of that scene and the comedy of it as well! I'm glad they put no music and showed everyone's reactions rather than something dramatic playing in the background.

The scenery around Swan Gazebo is beautiful! I rewinded it. They also changed embroidery to poetry for some reason?

This episode had me laughing with Agares falling down the stairs. I also love Sebastian's reaction to him and how he looked at his hand. That's enough of a giveaway to anime onlys that something about him is off.

Lantern scene: Manga vs Anime

I also finally watched the fire scene where Ciel threw the lantern, and I like it more now that I've seen the episode in full. I think the music here was wonderful, and the whooshing sound/smashing of the window while the dorm caught fire was great!

Manga

Is it inconsistent and makes less sense for Ciel to throw it that far? Yes, and yes. I like it, though, because impossible things happening is the beauty of fiction, and he is doing something himself.

He also has agency and he does have Sebastian use his powers to find Derrick but only after he gives the order. He had an option because of the dialog. Of course you can argue Sebastian is doing what he can help his master.

Sebastian teased him in that scene, though, thus bringing up how Ciel is going to go about this. I like that teamwork makes the dream work, but in the manga, Sebastian gave Ciel an option to make his own decision, and that's what I like about it.

Episode 5:

Yes!!! Burn. Burn! I like the burning and crackling of the fire in any scene. I also love the glow of his eyes and the negative effect used in the anime (as seen with Undertaker and in the intro).

Like, ooh! Ah!

That poor elephant. I like his sounds and scenes, too, like Soma telling him he did a job. I give props to Soma for calling out Violet but a mayor of purple house? Lol. I'm sure he meant prefect.

I like that Clayton being hit comes into play later. It's not really significant, though. It's just funny that he gets hit twice in the same fashion. Next time, don't have a voice that makes you sound like a crabby old professor.

"Shit! There's people around, and I better act normal." *runs gayily toward his "teacher" and places his hands on his chest rather than a normal thank you* Love these two, especially when they share a conniving smile and a brain cell.

I love their entrances, especially Violet Wolf but maybe I'm biased because their my favorite house. It's cute that Lizzy cheers them both on. Ciel should have Edward Midford down as cause of death on his death certificate, lol.

The individual fires are so pretty and combining them are even better!

Pfft, Violet Wolf dormitory eating like gremlins.

Lawrence sisters have really lovely designs, and the little sister they offered to Ciel as a wife looks the best. Soma looks good as well, and Sebastian winking at them... hot! 😍

Edward is clever but couldn't figure out who Mr. Michealis was, lol.

Start of the Sapphire Miracle fashback: *sniffles* Those men are beautiful! I love me some Vindee. ~

Episode 6:

I love that we continue with the flashback of the "Blue Miracle." Vincent may be a cunt who likes to mess around and cheat but he won't let anyone speak badly about his house, even another prefect. The wind and the shadow shows he means business.

I like the sound of birds and the water and the music as well while they talk. The transition from "You better hold up your end of the bet/You as well" to Green House losing was absolute perfection! 😂👌🏻 The music is wonderful, and the sway of his hips as heads toward the boat just... the ✨️ sassiness and sexiness. ✨️ People don't like Vincent's eye color but they made both men beautiful.

Dee swimming after the boat had me rewinding and snorting this time around. Lmao! His voice actor did a wonderful job. I know Alexis is the original fanboy. He ships them! Anyway, their faces at the end of the flashback was priceless. Everyone else is either o.o or 😒 while MacMillan is just 🤩✨️. I wish we saw it.

Imagine being named Coward. That's unfortunate because your teammates could yell at you like: "Get the ball, Coward! Defend the wickets, Coward! We lost the game because of you, Coward! 😤" I'd cry.

Okay, so I don't have much to say about the cricket part overall, except it's beautiful, the hits are satisfying, and like father like son. The Ciel is evil, and that part with Harcourt being sent to heaven DID NOT disappoint! One of my favorite moments, and they did it justice! 😂 There are smaller but significant moments I like, but I'll get to those when they come.

The bit between Tanaka and Sebastian is always great. The old man knows they use dirty tactics but still respects them for it. I like his new VA, too.

Purple Burnout is so pretty! Not so significant, but Edward observing other people and making their moves his own is what makes him great. It's like a fanfic of an original work. He's playing homage to it or gets inspired, and/or even if he copies it, he still respects the author who created it originally.

I love how he can see through Ciel's tricks quickly and that he's there for the Queen, but not that Sebastian is Professor M. God bless him, lol. At least Greenhill sees that he's a genius.

The Radetsky March was done nicely. There's not much to say there.

I honestly thought that removing the cricket explanation and funny bit with Bard's pie missing is sad and fucked the pacing first time around. Also, no Snake. 😭 Stop doing this to my boy!

I love the last shot of Sebastian taking off his disguise, though. Possibly, my all-time favorite part is next. Go, Sebastian!

Episode 7

I like how when Ciel imagined Sebastian, the heart had little sparkles and it floats away! I love when Lau pulls the "Sorry! My English no good" shit! 😆 Lmao, on top of it, Cole is so salty.

The tiny flags waved by Tanaka. 🥺

Yesss!!! The principal vanished?! That would make a cool ending of an episode, but I like how they did it here.

I love it when they do the demon eyes all staring at you twice: First when Ciel trespasses at Purple house and now with Blue House players surrounding the wickets. The first batter for that round feels dread, lol.

The chant "It's not cricket!" to complete silence with no music is wow! That was so good. The cliff tactics visual is really cool and I like the sound of thunder and the batter falling of the cliff.

They went from laughing to being in awe, and the wickets clattering was satisfying as hell. Ooh! I love the visual of Bluewer and the Owl, too. I like the flashbacks they put in the games as well. That smack made my mouth hang open. Like, damnnn Greenhill. The ball damaged the seating area!

Is that a piano version of "The Parade of Battlers" when Ciel is giving Bluewer a different ball? That's awesome until... Ciel gets hit with the bat. 😆 It's the dramatic, and the sound of Ciel grabbing the ball is good like their sportsmanship, and they WON the game!!!

Episode 8

The moment they moved everyone to tears to Sebastian tending Ciel's wound was just beautiful. That Eton looks delicious too. Love anime food! 🤤

They all look so good in the uniforms, and I like the photograph and how short Ciel looks in it compared to the rest. The music is heavenly!

Okay... both the boat scene and the festivities are where the visuals and sound design fucking shine! They are at their best thus far and probably won't get no better! The sword draw was clean and fireworks sound so nice along with the music and other stuff. I want to be there celebrating the festivities with them! Just wow... Amazing. 🤩

The owls cooing, crickets chirping, and the piano music playing while everyone's asleep... "Weston College is blanketed in a silence that sharply contrasts the day's clamor." That's actually worded better than how I would've put it. That flower and teacup/saucer is really pretty! I wouldn't mind having a bouquet and teased like that. It's even prettier when it blooms. *gasps* The bells, the organ, the moon and garden, the opening of the passage, and the clinking of teacups... I love it!

I like how the shadows are over the other boys in the photos and Derrick in the middle as he is the minor antagonist yet main focus of the entire arc.

Great ending with him showing up as if nothing happened. Fabulous!

Episode 9

I like the petals. The voice going from normal to like demonic... that's good. I don't know the sound made after Ciel points his gun at The Headmaster, but I'm down for such a heavy sound. The wind is back with the brief silence, and I have no complaints. Ooh... Derrick's death reveal! 💯 They made Undertaker being Ryan's research partner more obvious, lol. Omg the heartbeat growing louder, yes!

Teeth, teeth, teeth! And Sebastian's red eyes. Lovely!

The visuals and music/sound design for his reveal in this scene is everything! I'm glad Junichi Suwabe returns to voice Undertaker! The cinematic record, the ink, splatter, his smile... absolute 🔥🔥🔥! Not to mention the style and colors, too. I adore that they added this, and it's the coolest way to recap and remind us who he is/what he did up to this point! ❤️

One of the students being hit made me bear my teeth. 😬

Episode 10

I don't think I like people being hit in general but I'm okay with it in Derrick Arden's case. 😌

*chants* Teeth! Teeth! Teeth! Teeth!

Yes! Rock and wobble while laughing in that chair, I love you crazy old man! Also, the whole explanation and imagined fight were so awesome! It shows the difference between Sebastian and Undertaker and how the soul he crafted and molded to be stolen away from him as well as the person he cares most about.

I didn't know Edward came back with a sword. Does that mean he was going to fight and/or protect? In the words of Lizzy: "Big brother! You're so cool!"

Love the shot of the bloodied flower.

My boy is back! I missed the chaos and enjoyed it more in the anime with the sheep chasing Meyrin and Tanaka riding one, lol! I wish they kept "bastard" but I can't complain because my boy is back!!! 😄🥰🙏🏻😭

The striking of the match and crackling of the fire is always pleasant. I wish they kept the photo, though. 😔 It does look like the oven or stove is like the ones they had back then!

She's got to be the antagonist. That bitch is up to something! There's one episode left but this was a very nice wrap up for WC Arc!

Episode 11

We wrap up this arc with chapter 85 and end it with the beginning of GWA after the credits. Let's talk about it!

Okay, so the beginning scene is really nice! My baby is back, and he's looking beautiful! 😍 Finnian humming is really cute, and a scene that confused me was explained. I was confused because I thought she walked toward another cabinet, not backward!

Who is Agni's VA? They did a wonderful job, though brief, I loved seeing him again! 🥹❤️ These two are always a riot.

Everything looks so pretty, and I love the stuff they add, which made the scenes better imo. The servants are so fun and adorable with the glasses and Ciel the hat!

The Snake and sexy girl scene made me laugh and the cigarette scene was done well, too. Finnian with a lollipop! 🥺 I like that they gave Bard a scene to explain Somerset House.

I like the clinking of the mourning hair jewelry, and it looks really pretty!

They didn't lag in the second half either! I enjoyed the music and the cards gracefully floating down to the audience with sparkles for pizzaz! Miss Irene is looking beautiful in both her appearances as herself and Juliet. This part also got laughs outta me, such as Sebastian pulling the carriage, the crowd rushing toward them, and Ciel's "Sebas-chan!" when he got pulled back and held up. Plus, Sebastian's little clapping bit, lol.

The last couple of minutes after credits like omg! They get you hyped, and there's no down in the quality either! They also actually speak German, and it sounds SO good! I can't wait for my favorite arc to be animated!!! 🤩

In conclusion:

Very solid anime with gorgeous animation, voice acting, and 100/10 sound design that stayed faithful while adding its own touches. The outro isn't bad and is super gay while the opening plus visuals is a banger! Episode 10 is my favorite. I'm over the fucking moon for GWA being animated and I actually enjoy Weston College Arc a little bit more now. Thank you for your excellent work, Cloverworks!

[themusedump]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞

The following is a collection of quotes from Vinland Saga. These are taken from the manga. Chapter 1 - 54, the series prologue which is covered in season 1 of the anime. Feel free to change as needed. Warning for violence, slavery, and other dark themes.

---

"Oh geez. The attackers just retreated."

"Idiots performing a full frontal attack on a fortress..."

"I'm not looking for some cheap reward."

"Your warfare is pitiful and I can't bear to watch."

"We will pave your way to victory."

"Guarantee a reward for me."

"Ooh. You're so scary."

"I saw no deception in his eyes."

"We've got to get over this mountain before the moon rises."

"Just as I thought. They're powerless to resist."

"You're a tough kid, know that? Are you hurt anywhere?"

"That was the deal. I'm not taking no for an answer."

"Can it wait right now?! We need to get out of here!"

"Look at all the treasure."

"You'd be dead in three days, you klutz."

"Bring out some good liquor."

"Do you really love gold that much?"

"So anyway... Can you be a witness for me?"

"There is a different way to correctly control any person."

"Hey, isn't he kind of cute?"

"... You've grown, haven't you? How old are you now?"

"Things don't come back to you as fast when you get old."

"This isn't some big mistake inside your head, is it?

"Oh right. Now I remember! He was the fool who gave in life in exchange for his kid's!"

"Can't get emotional in battle."

"He is bound by his pride and past."

"If I had to live without pride, I'd kill myself."

"What a pitiful sight!"

"Every man alive is a slave to something."

"I suppose it would be a waste of breath to tell you not to get back at them."

"Are you a slave too?"

"For some reason, you remind me of myself."

"I wouldn't know how it feels to be a slave."

"I couldn't... kill."

"Enjoy your life as a slave then. You deserve it."

"I can't afford to be optimistic."

"That looks painful. What is it? Whips?"

"He's a slave on the run."

"But I don't have anywhere else to go..."

"He's stopped breathing!"

"A chain is the only necklace suitable for a man."

"Only steel chains around the neck will turn a man into something useful."

"Don't make me chain you."

"I shall not stand for those who make light of the law."

"Only by chains can an outlaw join the ranks of good humans."

"Do you really think you have removed his chains?"

"You will be joining us in this battle."

"A long time ago, I made a living by killing men. But one day, I came to hate it."

"I grew tired of killing. Tired of death."

"The time has come for me to pay the price of all my actions."

"The sword is a tool to kill others."

"Who are you going to kill with this?"

"Who is your enemy?"

"You have no enemies. No one in the world is your enemy."

"There is no one you need to hurt."

"Does that mean he's going into battle alone?"

"As usual, your men have no class."

"They just don't like the Christians."

"I'm just in it for the money. Consider the job taken."

"I didn't realize you were strong enough to jest with me so."

"Tell me about your heroics, man!"

"Do you think they'll let us go if we surrender?"

"He's more than a monster..."

"Aha! Very perceptive!"

"I like guys with a good brain in their head."

"Forgive me. I cannot spare you the brunt of my might."

"You're a strong man. Strong enough to lead an army."

"The only reason I am forced to rely on this sword at all... Is because I am immature."

"A true warrior needs no blade."

"Learn to treasure your life a little."

"Men are all talk."

"Run."

"Why did you come here?! Didn't I tell you to run away?!"

"I don't fight for money. I fight for the killing."

"If we want to stand out, this is the place to do it."

"... Promise me a reward."

"Only those that work on the battlefield get what they want. That's the way of the warrior."

"My life won't come cheap."

"This lovely fool is mine!!"

"I'm willing to indulge this boy's wild suicide mission."

"Uhg. What a mess."

"Looks like they left you behind."

"Poor guy. And you tried so hard too."

"Ooh? Dead already?"

"Still got your will to fight, eh?"

"Oh dear... There he goes."

"My shoulder is dislocated. My right ankle sprained... And a few ribs broken, I'd say..."

"Blast him. Damned crazy madman!"

"If you can't walk, we're just going to leave you here."

"Insane rat-bastards...! What's so fun about all this battle stuff!?"

"I want you to forget about revenge."

"Do you think that will make me happy?"

"You're up early. The sun has yet to rise."

"Too noisy for you to sleep, eh?"

"...... Don't talk to me."

"Are you getting the wrong idea? I'm not one of you."

"You might think you're so clever, manipulating me. I'll let you keep thinking that way. Until the day I slit your throat."

"Hmph! Very scary."

"Time is on your side."

"You will grow older and I will grow old. One day, you will beat me."

"... This is a tedious story. What's your point?"

"So impatient, we are!"

"You ought to listen to this old man's words of wisdom."

"The world of man is slowly but surely... Growing elderly."

"Look, one of the great ironies. Dawn of the age of twilight."

"It's the twilight of all time. No use in letting it pass without a fight."

"They're madmen. Fools drunk on battle."

"I'm here to rescue you. I'll guide you out."

"A man's faster on his feet when he's unnerved."

"Love is the thing that gives all other things value."

"Pathetic. Are you really the same age as me?"

"What? Are you sulking? A big lump like you?"

"Say what it is you've got to say with your own mouth. Your tongue ain't cut out, is it?"

"I am not keeping my silence because I am a coward! I... I am being cautious, I must be cautious!"

"I... I'm different from you lot."

"I am a prince. I have my status to think of."

"Hpmh. Not bad for an excuse."

"I have never seen such an impudent knave!"

"Nobody has ever spoken to me like that!"

"Then it's a fine new experience, ain't it?"

"Shut up and sit down."

"Bah... It's started to snow."

"I can't do anything about the weather no matter how much you complain."

"I'll free you from your worries."

"If only the whole world was always at war."

"There is... No father that does not love his son."

"Do you always eat alone?

"Looks like the battle is over."

"Hmph... The stew's gone cold."

"Unhand me, you knaves! You dare defy my commands?!"

"I can tell what a man's like just by looking at his face."

"I have hated every single one of you. You're worth less than swine."

"Not bad, you whoresons."

"You can't die until I kill you!"

"Lay a single finger on him and I'll kill you!"

"Touch him and I'll kill you!"

"Your courage ain't bad."

"I don't know if you'll be in any condition to talk once I'm done teaching you your lesson."

"Are you telling me to live in this world alone?"

"Do you truly think I can survive?"

"Don't go... I love you."

"Now nobody who loved me remains on this earth."

"Death is that which completes man."

"Is there no love in the heart of man?"

"It seems that the battle has come to an end."

"I grow tired of this."

"I do not wish to see any more fruitless struggle."

"This fight has no meaning. Do not die for nothing."

"Didn't ask for your help. Look after your own wounds."

"Get away from me! Don't touch it!"

"Good. The sentries have gone away. Let's go."

"Damn it... How pathetic."

"Fuck off. I'll kill you, you bastard."

"I was hoping that you'd show a bit more guts."

"Are you wounded?! Are you alright?!"

"Are you in position to fight?"

"Are you shittin' me?! Do you have a death wish!?"

"You've grown to be quite the smartass in a short amount of time, haven't you?"

"God is probably watching us right now, as we speak."

"We will take back what has been taken from us."

"You had me scared shitless back there."

"I had to change. And now I have to change everything."

"If I ever see you on the battlefield, I'll kill you. Ally or not."

"You're smart and strong. I admire you."

"Aren't you lonely?"

"I wanted... to be your friend."

"Aye. You're my... only friend."

"Do you understand what I'm saying? The fight is over."

"Someone had to save her. Not a god. Not a hero. But somebody."

"After spending all that time in the middle of those bastards, I'd have happily killed all of them."

"I can't let that debt go unsettled."

"Bah... Bastard making me chase after him..."

"You're alive..! What a relief!"

"So... you are seeking revenge..."

"Everybody's obsessed with conspiracy bullshit."

"You're disgusting,"

"That's not the face of a true king."

"....? Screams...?"

"Is this the first time you've ever stabbed someone?"

"..... Well done."

"Stand up straight. This is a crucial moment."

"How could you act so stupidly reckless and get yourself stabbed, you idiot!?"

"Come on! Get up! We can get you fixed up later!"

"Cone closer so I can talk to you..."

"Just kill me."

"So kill me. After all, aren't we enemies?"

"Are you really going... to... die...? You're lying, right?"

".... Still looking down on me, you bastard..."

"I'll never forgive you! How dare you die on me like this!"

"What will you do with your life?"

"That's enough. It's time to move on."

[semi-imaginary-place]

Trigun manga

I thought the Vash ass was a one time thing but Nightow gives us an ass shot panel like 3 times every chapter.

As someone who entered the franchise through Stampede it's interesting to see what Stampede changed (I mean besides the obvious timeline stuff). Like Stampede left out Vash getting a vent cover dropped on him while using a urinal and that whole subplot. It really is a rewrite, reminds me of the Evangelion movie series in that way, a reinterpretation of the major concepts of the series.

Vash's Stampede design better matches my sense of aesthetics. I never liked the BDSM leather harnesses and straps aesthetic but I gotta give it up for manga Vash's design, it is the most iconic and unique Vash design, it really stands out. 10,000 leather straps with a sleeveless leather harness with cutouts isn't my thing (seriously what the hell are you wearing Vash!) but it is definitly a Thing. Gotta recognize Nightow's dedication to giving Vash long shapely legs.

In stampede the Plants look like bulbs with roots or when unfurled Avatar alien plant people, in the manga there resemble living cells with amalgamated human faces and wing things and are feathery when unfurled. Trimax has stronger angel/demon imagery while Stampede sets up a stronger dichotomy between terraforming vs. Plant technology as the future of humanity. Manga plants are also giant in comparison

Milly is peak character concept. Bigg woman with a giant gun who loves her family, I'd go cafe with her and eat cake.

Oh hey Gunsmoke has pigeons.

Vash Legato telepathy?

I was wondering just how delusional vashwood shippers were. I mean shippers WILL see something when there's nothing this always happens. Wolfwood and Vash have no chemistry in Stampede season 1. Manga tho? Vash is instantly smitten when Wolfwood 3 way splits his last 3 coins with some street kids. And then they start flirting immediatly, yeah this is what chemistry looks like, "Your smile itself is a compliment", "a smile suits your face" damn.

Interesting interesting, in the manga its Vash's fleshy right arm that merges with the gun, in Stampede it's his mechanical left arm that merges with the gun. Although given Stampede is pre-July the right arm could also still happen.

I can see why people like the manga. I can also see how Stampede is playing a longer game planning farther ahead and has a more constructed narrative. The manga was always in jeopardy of being cancelled and then it was and you can see Nightow writing like every few chapters would be the last. Stampede has the advantage of knowing everything and being able to reconstruct the series while having the whole picture. I do like Meryl and Milly in the manga better than Stampede's Meryl and Roberto, but I like Stampede's Vash better than the manga's, he's cuter. In terms of story and format I like both, the more meandering episodic and the more straightforward story.

Maximum! So Knives blew Vash's angel gun again and now there's a hole on the moon and that dyed half of Vash's hair black… somehow I rather how with the artstyle you can't tell if the black is because his hair color changed or if its dramatic shading. I do think Stampede made the right call with the July incident leading to Vash's Eriks phase and 2 year gap instead of having another moon hole incident. The original 3 volume manga almost feels like a gaiden.

Wait wait. 2 year timeskip as Eriks and then we jump another 11 years!! Year 113 Meryl is 23, moon blast was on year 100. No way Meryl was 10 and a senpai insurance agent. Huh?? Between year 100 and year 113 2 years passed. Is this a translation error??

I need to go rewatch Stampede, Vash was able to keep far less secrets like Meryl and Wolfwood found out about him being a plant much earlier