#perennials in tokyo

[beyondfabric]

Drake's "Perennials in Tokyo" Editorial

For their latest Perennials campaign - an annual collection that comprises a classic Drake’s wardrobe, the staples and timeless go-tos that will never go out of style - the brand gathered a group of friends in Tokyo.

The result is impeccable as usual, with a range of preppy-inspired outfits that feel unabashedly sophisticated, but natural and relaxed at the same time - quite a delicate balance to achieve. Even in a suit and tie, there is an inherent coolness to the styling and wearer that never makes it feel stiff or overdressed.

[banjjakz]

convection currents ; yuuta x GN!reader

“Am I important to you, Okkotsu-san?” God, he can’t stand it. The way you look at him, the uneven lilt in your fragile, quavering voice; it makes him want to bury himself alive inside of you. “Yuuta,” he says. “Just ‘Yuuta’ is fine.” 

word count: 7.6k

warnings: horizontal hanky panky, obsession, possessive tendencies, unhealthy relationships, codependency, semi graphic descriptions of violence, major character death

‪♡‬ read on ao3 ‪♡‬

likes + reblogs appreciated!

Yuuta wants to like you. 

And he does – like you, that is. He really, really does.

But there have been some moments that give him pause.

Don’t get him wrong! You’re sweet, kind, doting, attentive, and very clearly an anxious bundle of painful self-awareness. He finds comfort in the kindred connection between your loner spirits. Training is made infinitely easier when he steals a glance at the gentle flash of your sweet smile, the soft flutter of your hair in the breeze, the twinkle of your laugh, floating through the air as a windchime’s ephemeral melody serenades the breeze. Everything about you seems to be perfectly enveloped and embedded within his daily reality at Tokyo Tech; natural, easy, right. That is what it feels like, to be at your side. 

The budding affection between the two of you kicks his foolish, stuttering heart into overdrive. How long has it been, since the blood pumping through his veins was motivated by a sensation other than mortal terror? 

You make him want to envision a reality wherein he’s embedded into the fabric of the living, breathing world, rather than continue to occupy his perch as a pariah, perennially scapegoated to the periphery. 

Each sidelong glance thrown your way is accompanied by the erratic twitch of his clammy hands, as he tries and fails to pay attention during one of Gojo’s rambling, nonsensical lectures. The light in his eyes revives when you call his name. Innards undulating in and out of place, he tracks your body’s every movement, your muscles contorting fast as quicksilver during scrimmages, lethal and alluring all at once. 

These are some of the objectively positive aspects of his attraction to you; the things that pull him from his bed in the morning, calling to him like the abyss compels a creature of the night to rise from its coffin.

And then, there are the more…er, complex moments.

“Did you just come back from a mission, Okkotsu-san?”

Like today, for example. Yuuta had just arrived back on campus after a fun afternoon spent with Toge traversing around Tokyo, patronizing various cafes and konbinis. You were lingering at the entrance of the dormitory, back to the front door, effectively coming between him and his bed.

“Ah, no. I was with Inumaki. We were hanging out for a bit.”

“Where?”

“Just in the city…”

“What did you do?”

He stills, uncertain. “Um…that’s…”

“I’m sorry.” Your head ducks in shame, hiding your face from his quizzical glance. “It’s been hard adjusting to student life as a mid-year transfer. I keep up well enough in classes, and on missions, but I don’t think any of the other students like me all that much. Forgive me, Okkotsu-san. To be honest, I’m jealous of how easily you get along with Inumaki-san and Maki-san.” 

Of course. How could he assume anything different?

As a non-lineage sorcerer, you were haphazardly discovered by one of the senior sorcerers on a mission gone south and roped into the jujutsu world without prior knowledge of its existence. From a firsthand perspective, he of all people should be able to understand how isolating that must be.

Kicking himself for his judgemental first reaction, Yuuta forces his skeleton to release the tension it harbors. “No, don’t worry. Have you been sleeping well? Did you eat dinner?”

Sheepishly, you shake your head.

This is how he finds himself alone, with you, in a secluded alcove on the outskirts of campus. The afternoon has matured into a thick, syrupy evening, the sky bruised with a smattering of warm hues. You sit on the grassy bank as a pair, shoulder-to-shoulder, your union celebrated by the rhythmic thrum of the cicadas’ song. 

“Here, take it.” He offers you the last flavored onigiri leftover from his spoils of konbini adventures. 

You protest, waving your hands in front of you. “No, no, no. I’m fine with just a plain one. Please. I don’t want to cause you any more trouble.”

“Plain is my favorite,” he lies. “I don’t even like yaki.”

“...Then why did you have one in your bag?”

“Haha! That’s a great question! I don’t know!” Beet red, Yuuta scratches the back of his head. 

Out of mercy, and perhaps pity, you graciously accept the yaki onigiri. Munching in companionable quietude ensues for several minutes, as you both watch the sun impale itself on the dark horizon, bleeding out across the sky in dark, inky tones. 

Without sitting face-to-face, it’s easier to speak to you, somehow. The insistent pressure on his chest lifts long enough for some words of actual substance to slip forth. “It’s hard, the first year.”

You remain silent.

“My first year was hell, too. Although that’s probably because I was being haunted.” 

“By who?”

He blinks, your question knocking him off balance. Not by “what,” but by “who” had he been haunted? You’ve always been observant. This is why you’ve survived for so long. 

“Um, it’s a long story… I’ll tell you in full one day. For now, I’ll just say that there was someone very special to me when I was a child… and it was hard for her to let go of me, when push came to shove.” 

“Ah. I see.” 

Although August has yet to conclude, the air around him is significantly chillier than what is characteristic of Tokyo’s late-summer hazy heat. Yuuta shivers, pulling his knees up to his chin. 

“Yeah. But, um, anyways. If you need someone to talk to…to be by your side… I would like to be that person for you.” He utters your name like a prayer, too concentrated on not stuttering to be embarrassed at the earnest tremble in his voice. “I wish I had a confidante when I first got here. It would have saved me a lot of trouble.” 

“A confidante? But didn’t you have your friend?”

Your reply jolts him into looking at you. The expression on your face tells him that you truly mean it as a genuine inquiry. 

“Well, um. I was being haunted…and Rika – er, she didn’t really listen to me. She actually got a little overprotective, I think.” 

“Do you think she was evil?”

“No!” The denial explodes from his mouth before Yuuta can even fully process the nuance of the question posed. “No,” he repeats, at an appropriate volume, this time. “She was clingy, and protective, and possessive, and honestly violent, but she wasn’t evil. I loved her. I think a part of me always will.” 

Love? What is he doing talking to you, alone, at night, about love? How embarrassing. He hadn’t meant to say all that! 

Quickly, he stuffs his mouth with the remainder of his onigiri. No more talking. Just chewing. 

If you are perturbed by his sentimental ramblings, you show no sign of it. If anything, your face remains impassive, serene, undisturbed like the surface of a tranquil pond. 

“You loved her for that, then. Was she haunting you if you were in love?”

After he finishes choking down the final, sticky remnants of his dinner, Yuuta frowns, mulling over your words which are heavy by the virtue of their implication, yet hang and sway in the air as an empty noose dangles from the gallows. 

“...I don’t know.” Yuuta says, at length. “That’s what I was diagnosed with when I came here. And it was hard for me to function, back when Rika was still here. I didn’t have any friends. And people close to me got hurt a lot.” 

“It sounds like she was always trying to protect you… even when you were apart. I only wish one day, I find someone who would have the capacity to care for me like that…”

“You want that?”

“I do.” Not an ounce of hesitation in your firm, forthcoming reply. “I’ve spent my whole life as something worth less than notice or acknowledgement. Always feeling invisible, never having anyone – not even one person – who cared about me. Up until this point, I’ve lived life wanting to die every day.” 

For lack of a better reply, Yuuta simply asks: “What changed?”

“...I met you, Okkotsu-san.”

Oh, wow. 

It’s kind of funny – where other people describe feeling hot, Yuuta has always been chronically, terminally cold. Your words induce a rapidly onsetting deep-freeze which permeates every layer of his skin, every molecule of his bones, every wretched atom of marrow lying dormant inside of him, all of it, every fiber of being rooted to the spot in an indescribable emotion. 

“I–I don’t know what to say.”

“It’s okay. I’m sorry, I don’t know why I said that. I apologize for making you uncomfortable.” 

That’s wrong. “No, you didn’t! You didn’t, I swear. Just… um, I’m also a person who is lonely, like you described. So I’m not used to, err, being, ah, important. To people? I guess?”

“Oh… I see.”

Clearly, the higher function of critical thought has abandoned him; this is the only explanation for how he reaches to grab your hands, sending the half-eaten yaki onigiri tumbling down to the dark earth beneath your anxiously shifting feet. He squeezes you, tightly, and is delighted in a morose sort of way to find your digits even colder than his. 

“Let’s teach each other. How to be important to someone else.”

“Am I important to you, Okkotsu-san?”

God, he can’t stand it. The way you look at him, the uneven lilt in your fragile, quavering voice; it makes him want to bury himself alive inside of you. 

“Yuuta,” he says. “Just ‘Yuuta’ is fine.” 

;

Field missions have been a part of his daily life as a sorcerer since the day he arrived at Tokyo Tech. Battle has always been challenging for all the obvious reasons, but never before has Yuuta had to deal with the added hardship of fighting alongside you.

This, of course, is not meant to imply that you aren’t able to hold your own; on the contrary, your physical and cursed prowess has granted you the rank of semi-special grade despite this being your first year enrolled in any kind of formal jujutsu schooling. Your cursed technique is innate to your personality and sensibilities, which helps. But even if that weren’t the case, you would still be one of Tokyo’s top-performing students.

Missions are difficult because, despite all of this being true, Yuuta is powerless to curb the instinct to protect you during fights.

It manifests in small ways, at first: insisting to be paired up with you for assignments, always volunteering to partner up when splitting from the larger group during an investigation– things like this. 

His behavior starts to stray into problematic territory the longer he is allowed to get away with it, unchecked.

“After Ijichi casts the veil, we’ll sweep the building. Inumaki and Yuuta, you two take the upper levels. We’ll do the bottom half,” orders Maki, gesturing between you and herself.

Immediately, Yuuta objects. “No. I’ll do the bottom half. You and Inumaki should go up together.”

“What?”

“I have a phobia of heights,” lies Yuuta, shamelessly. “It will impact my performance.” 

“I have literally never heard you talk about being afraid of heights before.”

“Shake sushi,” agrees Inumaki. 

You remain silent, pupils trembling, bottom lip severed between your teeth in a display of bashfulness reserved only for Yuuta’s blatant favoritism, which he wields frequently, in hopes to catch a even a single glimpse of you just as you appear now. 

“I’m self-conscious about it,” he laughs, scratching the back of his head. “Thank you both for understanding.”

“Wait! Okkotsu, we didn’t–”

And with that, he grabs you by the wrist and pulls you away with him, sprinting into the abandoned love hotel before Maki or Inumaki can prevent you from absconding. 

The two of you are laughing, tickled as usual at the effects of pissing Maki the hell off. Consequences will rain down in due time, no doubt, but for now, it feels best to bask in each other’s presence. 

Once through the front door, Yuuta halts to an easy jog, guiding you past the cobweb-covered front desk, around the decrepit scraps of the once-ostentatiously decorated lobby, all the way to the far back corner, where a solid, heavy metal door obfuscates the emergency stairway. 

“Oh, it looks jammed… Should we–”

Your stumped musing is cut off by the ricocheting cacophony of Yuuta’s boot violating the door. The metal itself bends and warps, caving in on itself in a hurry to make way for the unstoppable force of the sorcerer’s impassioned blow. He didn’t have to activate any cursed energy.

“Let’s go!” Chirps Yuuta, cheerfully. 

In another context, maybe, it would be appropriate for his pulse to spike, for his hands to clam, for his breath to quicken, at the prospect of being alone with you. However, the reality of the current situation is that Yuuta is dragging you down into some dark, unknown depth, where neither of you will be disturbed. As you descend the concrete flights, visibility is increasingly hard to come by, and this, too, excites Yuuta. He is now forced to rely more heavily upon his other senses, which naturally prioritizes the scent of your sweat; the sound of your rabbit-paced heartbeat; the feeling of the paper-thin skin of your inner wrist; the taste of his own desire. 

The cursed spirit they’re looking for has been wreaking havoc on the surrounding commercial strip, to the point where several businesses have had to draw their shutters in the wake of the love hotel’s primary foreclosure. Evidently, recurring, unresolved muder-suicides did not bode well for business. 

“Um…if we’re supposed to be searching for the curse behind all of the couples’ deaths, shouldn’t we be looking in the bedrooms?”

Your voice echoes, tinny, in the thick, humid air of the emergency stairwell. They haven’t hit the bottom yet. 

“Eh, maybe. This doesn’t feel like that kind of case, though.” 

“Huh? How do you figure?”

Although moving swiftly, at the speed of light, your footfalls make barely a whisper against the aged concrete steps. Still, it’s enough for Yuuta’s hypersensitive ears to pick up on. Deprived of the sight of you, he drinks in the intimation of your existence, greedily. 

“Heat rises,” he says, slowing pace as they approach what can only be the door to the boiler room, which has been left ominously ajar. “Cold sinks.” 

“...Um, I’m not sure I follow.”

Stealthily, he slithers inside the slender crack between frame and the door itself. The angle of its opening doesn’t even waver. He pulls you along with him, replying as he moves, “Crimes of passion carry a kind of hot, frenetic energy. Panic, impulse, instinct – all of those things have lots of, hmm, friction? Like an explosion. Really hot at first, dangerously hot, and then it fizzles out into nothing.”

Unfamiliar pieces of enormous machinery tower in the dark. As much as you are able to while crouching so low to the floor, you take care not to trip over any errant pipes.

“So this isn’t a hot curse?”

“No,” Yuuta confirms. “The curse–” murder-suicides in a love hotel, how on-the-nose could it be? “–is premeditated by nature. Obsession solidifies over time. To act on that is a calculated choice.” 

He stops short. You would’ve crashed straight into his shoulder blades if he weren’t painfully cognizant of your whereabouts at all times. He preemptively steadies you on your feet before you can even begin to stumble.

“At some point in this building, someone,” says Yuuta, quietly, as he cautiously eyes the opaque blackness before them, “spent a lot of time thinking about their beloved.” 

“How can you tell?”

“Cold sinks,” Yuuta repeats. 

Violence explodes, seemingly, out of nowhere. The curse attacks all at once, aiming perfectly towards you as though it had been lying in wait, stalking your every move. Yuuta always takes point whenever you pair up together, because he always insists on taking the first hit. It is this presupposition that leaves you wide open, vulnerable for attack from behind. 

“Yuuta!!” You shriek, desperately dodging the grotesque appendages reaching out to you. Your body hits the floor just seconds shy of what would have been a gory fatality. 

When you lift your head to identify the exact form of the curse, you still in uncomprehending terror. 

“...Yuuta?” 

How can this be?

Not even seconds prior, Yuuta had been a whole, living, breathing, intact person, guiding you as solidly as your own personal anchor. Why, then, does he appear to you now as a corpse, brain matter spilling down his temples, bloated limbs belying days of decay, flesh pale and tender and loose around the bone. 

No, no, no. Had you been too late? Had the curse gotten to him first? Are you next?

Despair fills you, overflowing your sensibilities with the intrusive desire to rid the world of your miserable existence. How could you have let him slip through your fingers? How could you be expected to return to any semblance of a life, with Yuuta gone? You don’t deserve a future without Yuuta – you don’t even want to imagine one.

You’ll do what’s right, and offer your life in penance that you failed to protect his own.

Cursed energy welling within you, threatening to tear you apart at the very seams, you are about to implode with all the conviction of an abandoned lover– but a familiar, desperate cry of your name halts your ministrations.

That was Yuuta’s voice calling out to you.

But there he is, lying before you as nothing more than a desecrated body.

Unless…?

Yuuta calls your name again, sharply, this time in a tone adjacent to something scolding. The fear of disappointing Yuuta outweighs all else. It’s enough to snap you back to reality, to clear your clouded faculties and reveal to you the real Yuuta, who stands on guard just a few paces away, living, breathing, sweating, crouching, preparing for action.

“The curse,” he calls, eyes never leaving the thing in front of you. “It’s the curse. Don’t worry, it’s not real. You’re alive.”

“I’m alive?” You parrot incredulously. “That’s your corpse over there!”

“...Huh? My corpse? But I see yours–” He cuts himself off, face going eerily blank. “Okay.”

“Okay?”

“Close your eyes. Don’t flinch.”

In your defense, you try your best.

Remaining sightless and motionless is difficult as the rest of your senses are inundated with the disgustingly explicit soundtrack of slaughter. The sound of flesh forcibly sliding apart on the edge of Yuuta’s cursed katana is familiar, at this point, but no less gut-wrenching to bear witness to. When he deals the final blow, the evidence sprays all over the front of you, drenching you from head to toe in what should be the curse’s blood.

And yet, the liquid is frigid. Like you’ve been assaulted by the waves of the cruel, immortal sea. 

“You can look now.”

Hesitantly, your eyes flutter open. You’re met with the sight of Yuuta, also covered head to toe in the viscous liquid produced by the corpse’s demise. Now that the exorcism has been completed, the preternatural heaviness is lifted from the building. But still, you struggle to breathe.

“Why didn’t you let me fight?” Something horrible announces itself, crowing from an ugly, dark corner of your mind best kept away from public view. “Was I going to slow you down?”

He sheathes in katana without sparing the gory weapon another glance. The space between your bodies is quickly extinguished, as Yuuta crosses the space in a matter of heartbeats. Blood roars in your ears, drowning out all which does not consist of Yuuta’s fixed gaze, Yuuta’s shaky breath, Yuuta’s pallid, sweaty skin, Yuuta, Yuuta, Yuuta.

“No.” 

A large, wet palm meets your cheek. The soft squelch should be repulsive. Your stomach flips for entirely unrelated reasons.

“Why do you think all those murder-suicides happened?”

The question catches you off guard, but you answer, nonetheless. “The curse.”

“What do you think the curse made people see, for them to do something like that?”

You want to ask what the hell this line of questioning has to do with anything, with the mounting intensity in his stare, with the firm hand on your face, calloused thumb rubbing miniscule half-crescents into the crux of your jaw where the bone and flesh is pliant and breakable, could crack open like the shell of a creature already cooked alive, prepared to be split open for gluttonous consumption–

And then, rudely, the memory of mere moments prior hits you:

You’ll do what’s right, and offer your life in penance that you failed to protect his own.

“Oh,” you whimper, pathetically. “They see– the curse makes them see, um, someone special to them.”

“Not just ‘special,’” Yuuta corrects. From this close you can see the faint trail of blue-green veins spiderwebbing their way from his eyebags, metastasizing every which-way, just underneath his skin. “What is a curse?”

“The coalescence of negative energy secreted by human non-sorcerers.” You rattle off the elementary answer without second thought. 

“What kind of curse was this?”

The moisture evaporates from your mouth. “A cold one.”

“Why?”

“‘Obsession solidifies over time. To act on that is a calculated choice,’” you mimic back. 

Although, your tone doesn’t quite replicate the self-assured way by which Yuuta had originally imparted the information. No, your voice shakes apart, just as disjointed as the rest of your body feels at this moment. 

“What did you see when you looked at the curse?”

He already knows. He wants you to say it. You want to plead for mercy, if only to savor the eroticism of begging for something you know will not be spared for you. 

“I saw you, Yuuta.”

The curse’s blood is bitter and cold, like soured juice, when it is thrust upon your tongue. Yuuta is uncaring of the gore coating the both of you, the time-sensitive nature of this mission assignment, the way your knees sway and buckle as the adrenaline begins to leak from your body, replaced by a new, even more exhilarating sensation.

Opaque darkness still shrouds the boiler room; and yet, it isn’t enough to prevent your souls from recognizing one another. Hands wrestle with buttons, fingers grapple with zippers, teeth gnash into flesh, and the two of you take each other apart not with the reckless abandon of lovers under the duress of a transient liaison; no, you are methodological, thorough, all-consumed by the well-marinated desire that has been fertilizing from the moment you first came into contact with one another. 

Yuuta throws you down to the floor and moves his body at a preternatural speed so that he beats you there, his hand cradling the back of your skull before it can strike the concrete. 

“I saw you too,” he huffs into your mouth. 

“You were d-dead…” The way you struggle to say the word is cute. You’re so fucking cute. God, he’s no better than a fucking curse. 

It’s impossible to curb the temptation to sink his teeth into your neck, eagerly feeding off of the intoxicating effects of your pained, thrilled squeal. “You weren’t,” he murmurs into the abused flesh, pressing a kiss where he’d just gnawed. “You looked close, but you weren’t dead.”

“...Huh…?”

Can you even think right now? Do you understand what he’s saying to you? How could you possibly grasp the implications of what is transpiring, right now, when you’re laid out on the floor, snow-angeling in the blood and guts and gore of a murdered curse, delirious off of a heady combination of lust and adrenaline and fear?

“You were just barely alive. On the edge.” He moans, rocking the hard line of his body into your own. “Do you know what you said to me?”

“Tell me.”

“You asked me to finish the job.” 

Back arching off of the grimy, gritty ground, every fiber of your being reaches out for the fingers that tear at the cloth of your uniform as though it is nothing more than some cheap costuming. “You know what? I knew it wasn’t the real you, when it said that. ‘S not like you.” 

He’s monologuing to himself, it seems. You are far beyond the hope of verbally communicating in anything other than your strained, hoarse whines. 

“You’d never ask me to do that. You’d stay with me until the very end, wouldn’t you?”

Desperately, hopelessly, you nod, your fingernails carving your intentions into the meat of his shoulders. When had his shirt come off? Did you do that? 

Are you the one tearing away the last bits of offending clothing, or is that him? Do you growl in stoked desire as he breaches your entrance, or does that inhuman noise come from the both of you?

When Yuuta is buried inside of you, he feels like he’s finally been laid to rest. There is the warm, comforting embrace often described as death – but instead of an eternal bliss found at the conclusion of his life, Yuuta is able to access this euphoria by burying himself inside of you. You are his headstone, his tomb, his coffin: all of you exists to house the death of all of him, and without him inside of you, you would live on in aimless unfulfillment, anxiously awaiting the day a beautiful boy will come to die under your care and linger with you in eternity. 

You are–warm, hot, burning up, self-immolating beneath his fingers. Every thrust forward threatens to scald his hips on your molten flesh. 

“Fu-fu-fu-fu-fu–” you stutter, body shuddering to life, rising from the ground, seizing and contorting in strange shapes as you struggle and fail to cope with the insurgence of pleasure coursing through you. “Yuu–ta–”

“Promise me.” 

“Wha–”

“Promise me,” he hisses, hands coming to your throat. “Promise you’ll stay. You’re too important to me, I c-can’t lose you too, hnnnnn–”

Promise you, I’ll never leave you, is what you are able to only mouth, breath and voice held captive in his unrelenting grasp. Because you cannot voice it entirely, you pour all the contents of your heart and soul into the sentiment. Fingers rising weakly to clasp onto his, you tighten his grip on your windpipe and take comfort in the drowsy haziness that cradles your consciousness. 

When he comes, he holds you to him like he’s afraid you’re going to crawl off and die somewhere else if he doesn’t keep you right where you are, crushed against, his shivering frame, so tightly bound to him that he can hear your diaphragm contract and expand, over and over and over again, each breath cut short by a wheeze or a sob. 

Through it all, he cradles you. Naked, bruised, and forever scarred from the sight of not-Yuuta’s rotting corpse, you cling to him and release your sorrows into the dark, empty abyss of the boiler room. 

Back and forth, he rocks your body, soothing your nervous system into an illusion of safety. There is no such thing as “safety,” not for jujutsu sorcerers – but together, with limbs intertwined as one, this is the closest you can come to fooling yourselves into hoping, one day, for a safe place. A safe person, even.

“Shhh,” he simpers, thumb swiping your cheek, which is damp from an unholy mixture of cursed blood, sweat, spit, and tears. “We’re together. It’s all okay.”

“T-together…”

“Yeah. Just you and me.” 

;

“You don’t think that’s an issue?”

“I’m not saying there isn’t an issue. But we should tread lightly, here. We don’t know what could happen if we interfere.” 

“If we don’t interfere, the newbie might die.”

“It won’t get to that point. I won’t let it happen. Oi, don’t blow smoke in my face. That’s unladylike.”

“Don’t lecture me on what’s ‘ladylike,’ cocksucker.” 

“Wow! That burns!” 

“Come here, I’ll show you what else burns.”

Lingering outside the door to the infirmary, you shift your weight from foot to foot, unsure of the appropriate course of action to take. Clearly, Gojo and Ieiri are in the middle of a conversation that is not meant to be heard by prying ears – not that you can make heads or tails of what they’re talking about, anyways. 

All you wanted to do was come see Ieri for your weekly check-up, as was customary following the love hotel mission. The adrenaline must have numbed your pain receptors in the moment, because as soon as you’d arrived back on campus, your entire body felt like you’d been through a grinder. 

You were kinda confused, at first, because you didn’t even engage the curse in combat. In due time, of course, you remembered what–or who–had actually bruised your ribs, broken your skin, sprained your joints, left you carrying the contours of his wanting.

Why were they talking about you dying, anyways? Yuuta saved your life. Nothing was going to happen to you as long as he was by your side.

“Hey.”

Jumping out of your skin has started to feel good, kind of. You look forward to Yuuta’s unceremonious greetings as he creeps up on you in silence, futilely waiting for you to detect his concealed presence. 

“H-hi,” you demure. Why are you shy? He’s been so far inside of you he practically fused into your skeleton. Blushing because he caught you unawares is ridiculous. 

“Aren’t you going to go in?”

Wondering how he knows what you’re here for is pointless. Equally as useless is trying to deduce how he was able to figure out your recurring appointment time. He’s Yuuta – it’s natural for him to acquire knowledge about you, as easily as one picks low-hanging fruit from a tree. 

“Umm, I think they’re talking about something.”

He frowns. “About what?”

You hesitate. Should you tell him what you heard? “Ah, I don’t know...”

“Are you sure?”

You remain silent, unsure of how to proceed. Part of you wants to bare your innards at all times, whenever Yuuta is around. It feels natural, like a rabbit’s cowering. On the other hand…

Somehow, the thought of telling Yuuta the truth–yeah, Gojo-sensei and Ieiri-sensei think there’s a chance I might die soon–would not end well for anyone involved. If there was something you truly needed to know, you’re sure your senseis would tell you. 

Right?

“Please trust me,” you whisper, only feeling a little guilty. You’re doing it to protect him. If something dangerous is going to happen to you, Yuuta shouldn’t be involved at all. He must live. You must make sure of it. 

Reluctantly, he acquiesces, although he insists on accompanying you to your check-up that week. Strangely, neither Gojo nor Ieiri seem surprised that he is here with you, and make no effort to question why. Yuuta is allowed to linger at your sides as Ieiri takes your vitals, reviews the status of your various injuries, and even holds your hand when she scans your cursed energy levels. Thankfully, you are on track to make a perfect recovery. 

In fact, not only are you replenishing the strength and ability that had been impaired during the love hotel mission–you are regenerating cursed energy at rates which exceed your natural capacities. 

When Ieiri relays this to you, Gojo, who has been lingering in the infirmary for some unknown reason (you suspect it’s simply to annoy Ieiri with his very presence) speaks up: “Do you know what that means, kid?”

“Um…” You start, nervous. Everyone’s eyes are on you. It feels like you’re under a microscope. “I’m moving up a rank?”

Gojo bursts into a fit of giggles, doubling over at the waist. “Wow, what an opportunist! Haha, maybe in the future, if your cursed energy continues to compound exponentially. I’m asking you about the cause. Any idea why you’re suddenly overflowing with power?”

“No.” Your answer is as truthful as it is anxious. 

“Typically, a dramatic increase in output like this only occurs after a Binding Vow. Make any life-or-death promises, recently?”

It’s supposed to be a joke, the way Gojo says it. You can tell because his crow’s feet dip down just far enough away from underneath his blindfold that you can tell whenever he smiles with his eyes. And he is smiling, after he cracks the joke. You’re also able to intuit when he stops smiling, as the depressions on his face smooth out into a careful blankness. You are thirty seconds too late to the punchline. Instead of laughing along, you remain damningly silent, and Yuuta shifts uncomfortably at your side. 

“Okay,” says Gojo, clapping his hands. “Alright.” 

Although you’re fully clothed in your school uniform, it makes you feel chillingly exposed when what feels like all Six of his Eyes bore into the collection of dark marks ringing your neck in a brutal, makeshift collar. Those were not, in fact, the work of a curse. 

Yuuta fidgets with the flimsy paper lining the examination bed. You kick your feet like a child in time out.

“You owe me seven thousand yen,” Shoko deadpans. 

“Hey! Didn’t we say forty-five?”

“Don’t kid around.”

Am I in trouble? The terrified plea swells to the front of your mouth, begging to escape. You force the words to sit, stay, and curdle on your tongue. 

“Can we go now?” Asks Yuuta, uncharacteristically direct. 

Given the odd gravity in the room, you don’t expect Gojo’s easy wave of his hand, dismissing the two of you with a flippant hum. Not having to be told twice, you hightail it out of the infirmary, grateful to be released from the constant invasion of privacy and security that is a prolonged existence within the reach of Gojo’s Six Eyes. 

Finally alone once more, the training grounds are a welcome reprieve for you and Yuuta, who crash into the grass clearing hand-in-hand, heartbeats synced. 

“Did we make a Binding Vow? When we…you know…”

Yuuta’s voice trails off, lamely. 

“What if we did? Would you regret it?”

“Huh? No, of course not! It’s just…well–”

“Well, what?” 

“That’s kind of permanent,” Yuuta whispers, dark pools of obsidian sorrow holding your gaze in its cruel, captivating clutches. “And we don’t know what will happen if it breaks.”

For one second, the rawness of it hits you. Fear washes down your back, prickling your flesh, raising goosebumps, locking your spine rigidly into place. The two of you had certainly made a life-or-death promise, infused with cursed energy and blood and…other…bodily fluids. To inadvertently perform a Binding Vow meant that the sheer intensity behind both of your wills was purely, wholly devoted to the promise. 

Which is why you take a step closer to him, voice steady. “I didn’t make that promise with the intention to break it. Ever.” 

He sucks in a sharp breath. “Don’t…you can’t be sure of that.”

“I am.”

“You won’t be able to guarantee it.”

“I will.” 

Familiarly calloused hands grab your shoulders, jostling you with charged intention. “You don’t get it! My favorite person in the whole world already left me once. If that happens again, I can’t… I don’t know…”

“Yuuta.” You don’t have to lay a finger on him for his entire body to stand at attention, drawing tall and taught, when you call his name. “I will never leave you, even if I die.” 

The ensuing kiss tastes like metal. 

Despite the passionate fervor with which he devours you, his mouth his cold, and his digits even more so as they dig into your cheeks, your throat, your waist, your chest, groping and pulling and kneading your flesh to loosen the rigor mortis that has arrested your willingness. 

“D-don’t, ah, make any m-more marks…” 

Your protest is, at best, unconvincing, the person least of all convinced being yourself, as Yuuta’s teeth and tongue on the tender flesh of your neck make you feel like you’re about to leave your body. “Hnng–Gojos-sensei already knows, I think.”

“Good.” He’s crazed, nipping and slurping at your sensitive soft bits like a man starved. “Let him know. Everyone should know. I shouldn’t even–” he kisses “–have–” he bites “–to say it–” he licks you in between speaking, as though it goes against the grain of his being to part ways with you for more than just a few jagged inhalations. 

The ground hits you hard, reprimanding you for your clumsiness with a firm impact on your backside. Yuuta pursues with haste, hands slamming down on either side of your head, ripping the grass in retribution. 

“Yuuta,” you hiss, hands flying to his dark mop of hair, trying to reel him back – in vain, of course. “We are outside. In the middle of the day. Anyone could walk by!”

“Don’t care.”

His eyes are glazed, half-lidded, pupils blown wide and deeply dark as a gunshot wound, uncaring of your anxiety as he attempts to dive back into you.

“Wait! What if someone sees me?” Now, he rears back. “I don’t want anyone else to see, Yuuta… only you get to see me like this.” 

Even the ants traipsing across the clearing stop dead in their tracks, rendered motionless, silent, at the abrupt onslaught of highly charged cursed energy that washes through every living and non-living thing within a five-mile radius. 

“Okay.”

Wordlessly, your world upends as you are thrown over a wide shoulder clad in spotless, wrinkled white. You’ve always thought it was funny – how Yuuta’s uniform never managed to permanently stain itself with any of the gore he frequently encountered, and yet, there was always a noticeable depression in the seams, ever-lurking, complicating the otherwise flawless expanse, evoking a sense of pity. 

Even when the shirt flies off, abandoned to crumple sadly in the corner of his bedroom, you can’t get its image out of your head. That spotless white. Those gleaming gold buttons dripping in iridescent rivulets down the front of the garment. Only within the intricate designs etched into their surface is one able to glean the barest hint of blood, staining the metal a pale crimson. If you weren’t looking for it, you wouldn’t notice it.

But you have always sought out his ugly, twisted parts. Even when he tries to hide. Even when he might duck from them himself. 

That’s okay. 

That’s why he has you. 

When he bites you so hard that the wound draws blood; when his palms squeeze around your windpipe so deftly that you lose vision; when pins down your bruised hips, ignoring their wriggling avoidance; when his unquiet nature makes itself known, eclipsing the carefully bashful performance he puts on for his peers so that he might be liked, or loved, even–that is when you feel most connected to him. That is when your affections burn brightest. 

And during the comedown, as he holds you close and rocks your brutalized body back and forth and back again, you are well aware that it is he himself who he seeks to soothe.

He doesn’t know, you realize, broken out of your post-coital mental haze with a pointed moment of clarity. 

Yuuta has no clue what lurks inside the haunted catacombs of his soul. 

What does it say about you, then, that his naivete only serves to further incense your want, smoldering like an inferno brewing at the base of a pyre, threatening to engulf your sorry corpse in entirety? 

;

As third year trudges on, instruction takes less time in the classroom, or on campus. More frequently, you find yourself out on missions from sun-up to sundown, running around Tokyo-to and even surrounding prefectures. The grades of the curses you go up against only increase with time, and so, to, does your proximity to mortal danger.

Through it all, Yuuta is present. Indignantly so. Despite your rank as a semi-special grade sorcerer, you have yet to embark solo on an assignment. The pair of you are one combative unit, at this point so intertwined in sentiment and instinct that rarely is it necessary to reach for verbal exchange while engaged in battle. It is as though the reserve of cursed energy you draw from is a pool shared between you, a combination of your innate abilities plus an additional overflow, supplied by the Binding Vow you had consummated all those months ago. 

So close are you, now, that Yuuta grows comfortable – confident, even – with your hold on his proverbial leash. These days, he is less neurotic when you inquire as to his whereabouts. Your prying questions provoke within him nothing other than a deep-seated sense of reassurance. He no longer doubts where he stands with you, as he once did when you were still a fresh-faced, mid-year transfer adjusting to life at Tokyo Tech. 

In retrospect, he recognizes that he should never have let his guard down.

It’s his fault, really. Entirely his fault. The extra strength provided by the powerful effects of the Binding Vow deluded him into a false sense of security. 

He shouldn’t have been so careless with your life. He shouldn’t have strayed so far from your side. He shouldn’t have let you out of his sight. He shouldn’t have left you alone, even if it was only for a split second–not even. 

Once again, he has failed to save the most important person in his life. Somehow, losing you is worse than losing Rika. He is no longer a child. He possessed both the skill and ability to save you. 

And yet, he had been absent in your time of need. 

The one time you’d been off on a mission without him. The one and only time. Principle Yaga’s sorry excuse was that the higher-ups found it strange that you, as a semi-special grade, had never completed a solo assignment. Apparently, your rank was being threatened if you refused any longer to display independent capability. 

Well. Now there’s no rank for you to claim, anymore. 

After news of your death reaches him, he roams campus like an aimless specter, as though he is the one who has been robbed of life. 

In a way, he has. Half of his being has perished. He limps, lopsided, dragging the phantom weight of your body with him wherever he goes. 

It takes a while to get used to the absence of your physical, living, breathing manifestation. As a fellow sorcerer, you have been wholly eradicated from the fabric of his reality. 

But as a spirit…?

Death is not enough to break a Binding Vow – this, Yuuta knows better than anyone. He retains his augmented cursed abilities, along with your presence. The two of you join once more in battle, as he summons you to protect and guard him in life as he failed to do for you. Your selfless nature has never been more clearly evident. Not a single call goes unanswered, not a single need of his unmet. 

Is this a haunting?

No, he doesn’t think so.

When the two of you had still been skittish and shy around one another, nothing more than a pair of innocently covetous children, you’d dared him to reflect on his relationship with Rika. What had been translated to him as a haunting, you reimagined as something more corporeal, something genuine, something worthy of gratitude, and love.

This is how he chooses to think of you – the both of you, together, still joined in perfect union. No matter the fact that you will watch him age, change, develop, and eventually die, one day, should he be so lucky. You do not haunt his waking hours. You do not terrorize his dreams.

You love him in a way that transcends the bounds of space and time.

He has not been cursed. Rather, he has been blessed with your unconditional love.

To earn true forgiveness, he must show you his, as well. You must occupy his every waking thought. You will invade his every intention. You are at the forefront of his mind when he rises with the dawn, and the memory of your breath against the shell of his ear whispers to him good night. You dress him. You urge him to sustenance. You machinate his combat. You heal his wounds. You wipe his tears when he sobs, alone, terribly alone, sobbing into his knees after each time the life of a friend meets a senseless, violent conclusion. 

You are still there when he wraps a rough, harried palm around his throbbing arousal, thrusting up into an elusive, now long-gone pleasure. You guide his hands’ journey across the hazardous dips and valleys of his rib cage, the grotesque concave of his stomach, the sharp blades of his hip bones. His skeleton threatens to crawl outside of his flesh. It yearns for something beyond this senseless cycle of bloodshed, grief, and rage.

 Never does he feel closer to salvation than when he is on the precipice of ecstasy, dehydrated, underfed, delirious, heart beating so fast that it limits his vision, his lung capacity. When he occupies this liminal space, it is not the brink of orgasm which he straddles. As he approaches climax, he yearns not for an explosion of wet heat, but for the euphoric embrace of a final ending: your arms around him once more, real, tangible, warm. 

Until then, he will trudge onwards. Miserably alive. Cold inside and out. Numb to physical pain, constantly inundated with the wounds inflicted on his spirit, his sentiments, his soul. 

Solace finds him in the fact that you committed to remain by his side, forever. How could he wallow in total despair when this remains true?

You chose this, after all.

You chose him.

You did. 

Didn’t you?

[oxfords---notbrogues]

Drake's "Perennials in Tokyo" (2025)

[shisasan]

and in the murmuring chasms where unseen faraways entwine, the perennial dreamer of realms, the eternal seeker of truth.

Tokyo International Forum (東京国際フォーラム) Tokyo (東京), Japan April 2024

Aleksandra Alba IG: tanzdreamer

[pix4japan]

In the Shadow of the Peak: Chasing Clear Views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Tanuki

Location: Lake Tanuki, Shizuoka, Japan Timestamp: 07:29・2024/02/28

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP 31 mm ISO 100 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/9.0

Embarking on my photo shoot at around 4:00 a.m., I arrived at the southwestern shore of Lake Tanuki by 6:30 a.m. The drive from central Tokyo takes just over 2 hours via the Tomei or Chuo Expressway, assuming you don’t take any breaks along the way.

Depending on the time of day and season, and if the water is tranquil without any surface ripples, you can capture a near-perfect reflection of the volcano on the lake's surface.

A snow-capped Mt. Fuji remains my perennial favorite subject to capture, especially considering the countless times I've seen the peak shrouded in haze or cloud cover in stark contrast to the rare, cherished days when the entire scene is revealed on a clear, crisp day.

Google Maps links, and links to source references available at my full write-up – a short 1-minute read (https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20240228-tanukiko2).

[strawberryclementine]

The remaining chapters of They Were Perennials are up!

[translationandbetrayals]

Lycoris Radiata: A personal Appreciation

There is a flower that every fan of anime knows about and is the lycoris Radiata, or by her Common Name: corpse flower, red spider.

Botanically speaking, this flower is part of the clade of the angiosperms and in the order of the Asparagales and is originally from Asia. Specifically, from China, Japan, Korea and Nepal, but it can be seen even in Seychelles. The problem is that, in Japan, it only can be founded female versions of this plans in natural environment, which it means that they only can reproduce by asexual reproduction via bulb division thanks to the absent of masculine plants (the inconvenience to be a monoic plant…)

  This plant is a bulbous perennial, and, like the dandelion and the sunflower, it isn’t 1 flower, but a lot of flowers in a structure called inflorescence. Specifically, the name of the type of inflorescence is “umbel”. The androecium are those filaments that stand out in the inflorescence. Each “real flower” has 6 petaloid tepals (it means that the structure that appears to be a petal is in fact, a mix between a petal and a sepal). That number of tepals says that this plant is, in fact, a monocotyledonous.

  The bulbs in general, like onions, are eatables. However, the bulbs of this plant are toxic and cannot be eaten. In fact, it´s Fruit isn’t eatable either, being a simple dry Capsule. Its grows better in low profundity, not dry spaces and cold places.

  It is possible to found white versions of this plant, but the one that we will talk about is the red one, the most used variety. It blooms in the start of the fall and in the Japanese culture, they grow in hell and guides the death to their next reincarnation. These flowers are also used in funerals, so it has a strong link to the death for various Asian cultures. Their toxicity doesn´t helps to that inflorescence to get away to that reputation. It also can contain trichomes that may generate itching if you touch it, so it’s a very beautiful and full of defences plant (If it were originally from USA, I’m sure that they could relation this plant to the “femme fatale” archetype…)

  Also, their toxicity helps as a natural repellent of herbivores of any type, like mices, earthworms, etc, that’s why it is very good to plant these flowers around rice plantation to avoid losing the rice plantation. It also helps to repel carnivores to protect the bodies who passed away and that could be buried in the superficial layer of the earth.

This knowledge and culture around this plant could say a lot about how a culture can influence a lot of animes.

  ///ATTENTION: THE FOLLOWING PART OF THIS EESAY WILL HAVE SPOILERS. CONTINUE BY YOUR OWN RISK//

  Higanbana (the common name in Japan) appears in a lot of animes that has correlation with the death, the danger and/or the spiritual world.

  In Tokyo ghoul, the white carnation flower, that symbolise innocence, when is stained by blood, it transformed to our favourite flower, as a metaphor, again, of the death of their former self.

  This flower also can be interpretated as a lover´s separation symbol, thanks to how this flower blooms. Biologically and evolutionarily, their tepals doesn’t touch when a flower blooms. And their leaf and their tepals of all the inflorescence never touches. This interpretation can be seen in Madoka magika in the head of a witch that is unable to reunite with their beloved one.

  We said before that it exists a white variant of this flower. That also has an interpretation, as an antithesis of the red one, being a heaven flower and one that purified the karma of a person. In some animes with day temples scenes, it can appear.

In conclusion, its very cool to see that a simple flower that grows with self-defences and need specifically needs could be so important to a culture to use it in their art and how that influence can be seen in our very favourites animes, like Kimetsu no Yaiba, Madoka Magika, Tokyo Ghoul, Inuyasha, and others.

- Pedro Maizares

[falseandrealultravival]

A Plan: Action Guidelines When I Decided to Live in the Mountains(Essay)

Hot milk(Goat)

October 30, 1986

Rei Morishita

Basically, I will be the manager of "F's House" and the guide of "K's Forest". Of course, as a sei-katsu-sha, I live for myself.

@ Renovate the attic on the second floor to make it a living space, atelier, studio, (library). Even if it's a little messy here, it's fine. (That will give you more motivation to create.) The first floor can be used as before, whether I'm there or not.

@ Open a cram school. "Iraku cram school" ... "Nyaku" from "Konnyaku" was changed to Niraku → Iraku. It's just that I don't just teach you to study, but I'm also taught. I want to value communication with the local community. So, not only do we become lecturers, but people from Tokyo and locals become lecturers and listeners. (basically for elementary, middle and high school students)

@ Cultivation of forest land. ~especially perennial crops, e.g. Basically, K town is a slash-and-burn culture area, so from the beginning it is not particular about rice, and aims to be self-sufficient in buckwheat, barnyard millet, foxtail millet, and millet.

@ Cultivation of medicinal herbs - currently under study. (Again, it has high commercial value.)

@ I want to keep goats, rabbits, bantams, gamefowl, etc. (I love goats!)

＠I make paper…. I make my own paper. Fortunately, nearby Ogawamachi in Saitama Prefecture is a famous production area. Research paper materials.

@ "House of F" considering water and soil - I want to make use of water as a specialty in my daily life. Need to explore. For example, composting toilets, gray water, garbage. Fundamentally, I want to get rid of a life that "relies on devices."

@ Making tableware using wood.

@Make a map for playing in the mountains.

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

@I personally have doubts about "cars" as a means of transportation. People who say "Of course" are in trouble. (Even so, I think it's my responsibility to respond.)

@Suggestion about food ~ It's interesting to bring your own portion, spread out everyone's portion, and think about cooking.

that's all.

[thanksforthedinosaur]

lappy - booty shorts

rebecca black - sugar water cyanide

camoufly - give u everything

holly hebe - ultra love feat. ella rosa

viviz - full moon

alex andre - whoa

bébe yana - icy on my neck

erika de casier - lucky

ella rosa - fun

camoufly - on my mind

berryblue - uh oh

chanpan - ooweeooweeoo

frey - wanting u back

st. south - big sads - remix

ca$hrina - birthed you

evil - d099 (sped up)

ceci - glitter gun (call it love)

chelmico - summer course (feat. neibiss)

elley duhé - money on the dash - sped up

tobi lou - gentle monster

ihasamic! - slayin the draggin

glen check - dreaming kills (2024 remix)

charlotte plank - ellen

leaf - lil secret

cassie marin - fuzzy feeling

joe goddard - moments die - 1-800 girls remix

elxnce - limerence

banny bugs - when u loved me

m·vantasy - i like it - vocal version

flo - check

emocosine - sparkle

hyperlock - starlight

ferst - break free

fusq - strangers (searching for you)

higma - echo - sasanomaly remix

templime - こえがする

nyarons - a

alohaii - rose

twice - like it like it

iri - pick you up

brothertiger - stained glass

kidnap - lost without you

kasbo - this is it

wavedash - all ur luv

biig piig - ponytail

choi jungyoon - swim

emerald - in the mood

alex sloane - lovergirl

abby holliday - crack a smile come on stay a while

we're ok! - tell me where

city girl - throw myself

bella poarch - sweet delusion

carobae - noise

dyln - facts

cray - eat dirt

chloe tang - i see u

agnes hartwich - damn wauw

carlie hanson - covering faces

corook - blankets

easha - exciting! exotic! evil!

ezi - stop

honeymoan - crush

ehle - when i lie

awfultune - things

flung - intrinsic

christian french - too shady

emeline - 99 boys

jasimi - absinthe & oj

isabel dumaa - different

echos - over & over

dreamer boy - bubba

isabel pless - i joined a cult

heights - swinging as i go

cifika - little drama

leanna firestone - keeping score

frances forever - weeb

calica - red mary janes

tessa violet - my body's my buddy

alessia cara - (isn’t it) obvious

career woman - stage play

addy - rosemary

jordana - charm you

housewife - divorce

dacelynn - cracked teeth

beeson - ritual

alexia avina - perennial

devon gabriella - how could you?

the greeting committee - tell me i'm wrong

allie kelly - doormat

chandler leighton - half-life

cate - rocket science

avery lynch - somebody new

kahlla - night drive

chrissy - honey bee

fanclubwallet - complex weather

sydney sprague - reason for season

sarah su - nyquil

evangeline - the last song

allegra krieger - roosevelt ave

delaney bailey - honesty

earth dad - regular times

jax anderson - hyper life

girlpuppy - champ

the hidden shelf - mayflowers

homecomings - angel near you

club 8 - sunny

fromm - far golden

chastity belt - clumsy

castlebeat - moonlight

rinse - stranger

caoilfhionn rose - wandering mind

baths - sea of men

great good fine ok - let's talk

birthmark - butterfly

sweet pill - cut (unraveled)

amy allen - choices

runo plum - simple things

andrea von kampen - sister moon

florist - this was a gift

great grandpa - doom

field medic - a book worth reading

molly parden - wash me in rosemary

pieta brown - wondering how

grace gardner - firing sideways

ichiko aoba - flag

fox capture plan - tokyo

galaxy fingers - walnut paneled idiot

goon - death spells

penfold - sea of crisis

remo drive - empty promises

nanashi mumei - it’s not a phase

thursday - white bikes

centershift - birthmark

envy - lingering echoes

big|brave - canon : in canon

another silent weekend - palms

fujitsu - yesterday

eevee - nourish

purpl3alien - sea foam

chromonicci - a message for dreamers.

the lonely island - sushi glory hole

huckleberry p - stomp!

joey valence & brae - no hands (feat. z-trip)

yungin - no lowkey

stress eater - giving back to the universe

smino - hoe-nouns (feat. thundercat & reggie)

kota the friend - blah

grlwood - i pledge allegiance (2girlpen15)

ben beal - playing dead

blackstarkids - escapism

jon rivera - the hunt

namebuddha - pain less

femdot. - the ok song.

santana davinci - melancholy

the doppelgangaz - cloaked out style

idk - flow

moses yoofee trio - green light

lowgo - lacy

jake hope - frequency

amelia moore - see through (remix) [feat. coco jones, absolutely & samara cyn]

jae stephens - better boy

ellery bonham - soak

cole bleu - best friend

ella mai - one of these

chymes - ufo

wafia - something

khalid - ground

andrea valle - badder not sadder - sped up

kruu - mine - 2025

429 - atami sunbeach

bearwear - find out

mitsu - dahlia

dom! - restore

capo2 - late night texting

yashio - notice

may - antidote

d1v - m3ss up

cheeto - snowtires

nothing,nowhere. - baby blue

eunhae - composure

yeil - 6&45 (feat. kairo6k & vin0)

kurse11 - flattered

food house - special

hollons - her decision

biteki - nowhere to go

emorave - sleepytime

mixty - kagayakume

shin kikuchi - yoko

gia margaret - mourning dove

bvsmv - and waves of dreams

36 - axiom haze

six missing - sitting beachside - remix

celer - gems iii.v

alonefold - snow under the horse

jogging house - weather room

hollie kenniff - linger in moments

[mayakshethra]

The Ultimate Guide to 2024’s Best Travel Destinations

As the world continues to evolve and travel trends shift, 2024 emerges with a selection of travel destinations that promise to captivate and inspire. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking to unwind in luxurious settings, this ultimate guide will help you discover the best places to visit this year. From vibrant cities to serene landscapes, explore the top travel destinations that offer a mix of excitement, relaxation, and cultural richness Best travel agency in munnar

1. Tokyo, Japan: A Dynamic Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Tokyo stands as a testament to the seamless blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. In 2024, it remains a top destination for those seeking an exhilarating urban experience enriched with cultural depth.

Cultural Highlights: Visit the historic Asakusa district to explore Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Wander through the bustling streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, and take a trip to the Meiji Shrine, a serene oasis amidst the city’s hustle.

Modern Marvels: Experience the futuristic side of Tokyo in Odaiba, an entertainment hub with stunning architecture and attractions. Don’t miss Akihabara for electronics and anime culture, and the luxury shopping district of Ginza.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for beautiful fall colors.

2. Cape Town, South Africa: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Cultural Riches

Cape Town is an exceptional destination in 2024, offering a stunning mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and luxury. This South African city captivates with its dramatic landscapes and vibrant culture.

Natural Wonders: Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Explore the beautiful beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, and visit the Cape Winelands for world-class wine tasting.

Cultural Experiences: Discover the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and stroll through the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood known for its vibrant houses and rich history.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (December to February) for beach activities and winter (June to August) for whale watching.

3. Barcelona, Spain: A Cultural and Culinary Paradise

Barcelona is a must-visit destination in 2024, offering a vibrant mix of artistic heritage, culinary delights, and Mediterranean charm. This Spanish city is renowned for its architectural wonders and lively street life.

Architectural Wonders: Explore Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, including the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. Wander through the Gothic Quarter and visit the stunning Palau de la Música Catalana.

Culinary Delights: Enjoy tapas at local bars, savor Catalan cuisine, and explore the bustling La Boqueria market for fresh produce and gourmet treats.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, offers a unique combination of natural wonders and urban charm. Known for its dramatic landscapes and geothermal activities, it’s a top destination for 2024.

Natural Attractions: Soak in the Blue Lagoon, explore the Golden Circle to see geysers and waterfalls, and experience the otherworldly landscapes of Thingvellir National Park. For a true spectacle, hunt for the Northern Lights during winter.

Urban Exploration: Discover Reykjavik’s vibrant arts scene, enjoy local cuisine featuring Icelandic specialties, and explore landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall.

Best Time to Visit: Winter (November to February) for Northern Lights and summer (June to August) for Midnight Sun and outdoor adventures.

5. Bali, Indonesia: A Tropical Escape with Rich Culture

Bali is a perennial favorite for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. In 2024, this Indonesian island continues to offer a perfect blend of serene beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Relaxation and Wellness: Stay in luxurious resorts in Ubud surrounded by rice terraces, indulge in spa treatments, and participate in yoga retreats. Relax on the pristine beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua.

Cultural Experiences: Visit traditional temples such as Uluwatu Temple, explore local markets for handcrafted goods, and experience Balinese dance and ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit: April to October during the dry season for ideal weather and outdoor activities.

6. New York City, USA: The Ultimate Urban Adventure

New York City is a top destination in 2024 for those seeking an exhilarating urban experience. With its iconic landmarks, world-class entertainment, and diverse culinary scene, NYC offers something for everyone.

Iconic Attractions: Visit the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. Explore world-renowned museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art.

Entertainment and Dining: Catch a Broadway show, explore diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and Harlem, and enjoy a culinary journey through upscale restaurants and street food vendors.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

7. Kyoto, Japan: A Journey Through Japan’s Heritage

Kyoto continues to be a premier destination in 2024, renowned for its well-preserved heritage and serene ambiance. As Japan’s ancient capital, it offers a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture.

Historical Sites: Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of torii gates, and the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Explore historic districts like Gion for a glimpse into traditional geisha culture.

Cultural Experiences: Participate in a traditional tea ceremony, savor kaiseki cuisine, and explore Kyoto’s many temples and shrines.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage.

8. Buenos Aires, Argentina: A City of Passion and Elegance

Buenos Aires is an exciting destination in 2024, offering a mix of European elegance and Latin American passion. The city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and culinary scene make it a top choice for travelers.

Cultural Highlights: Explore the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, visit the historic Recoleta Cemetery, and enjoy tango performances in San Telmo. The city’s rich architectural heritage is evident in its grand boulevards and historic buildings.

Gastronomy: Savor Argentine beef at traditional parrillas, explore the city’s diverse food scene, and sample local wines in the Malbec-producing regions.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) for mild weather and vibrant cultural events.

9. Lisbon, Portugal: A European Gem with Rich Heritage

Lisbon offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and modern charm in 2024. The Portuguese capital is known for its stunning architecture, scenic viewpoints, and lively atmosphere.

Top Attractions: Explore the historic Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the charming Alfama district. Enjoy panoramic views from the São Jorge Castle and the city’s picturesque viewpoints.

Culinary Experiences: Indulge in pastéis de nata (custard tarts), sample fresh seafood, and explore the Time Out Market for a diverse range of local and international dishes.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

10. Sydney, Australia: A City of Vibrant Life and Stunning Landscapes

Sydney, Australia’s largest city, is a top destination for 2024, offering a dynamic blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and urban excitement.

Iconic Attractions: Visit the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, relax on the iconic Bondi Beach, and explore the Royal Botanic Garden. Enjoy the vibrant arts and cultural scene in neighborhoods like Paddington and Surry Hills.

Outdoor Adventures: Take a coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee Beach, explore the Blue Mountains, and enjoy water sports in the Sydney Harbour.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) for mild weather and outdoor activities. As 2024 unfolds, these top travel destinations offer an array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. From the exhilarating adventures of Queenstown and the luxury of Paris to the cultural depths of Kyoto and the tropical escape of Bali, the world is full of remarkable places to explore. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, these must-visit spots promise unforgettable experiences and memories. Start planning your next journey and embrace the diverse wonders that await you around the globe Homestay in wayanad

[blogger200066]

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Exhibitions in 2024

In the bustling landscape of global tourism, where wanderlust meets practicality, travel exhibitions serve as pivotal events that bring together dreamers, planners, and industry leaders under one roof. Among these, the India International Travel Mart (IITM) stands as a beacon, showcasing the best of what the world has to offer to eager travelers and seasoned explorers alike.

Understanding the Essence of Travel Exhibitions

Travel exhibitions are not just trade shows; they are immersive experiences that transcend mere brochures and booths. These events pulsate with the energy of diverse cultures, promising a glimpse into destinations far and wide. Whether you seek the sun-kissed beaches of Bali, the historical marvels of Rome, or the wilderness of the Amazon rainforest, a travel exhibition like IITM brings these possibilities closer to reality.

India International Travel Mart (IITM): A Key Player

Among the myriad travel exhibitions worldwide, IITM holds a prestigious position. As India’s premier travel exhibition, it unfolds annually across major cities, drawing participants from across the globe. From tourism boards to hospitality giants, travel agents to adventure enthusiasts, IITM is a melting pot of ideas and opportunities.

Read these articles:

The Wonder of Travel Expos: A Journey Through Beauty and Inspiration

The Excitement of Travel Expos: A Journey Through Adventure and Inspiration

Experiencing the Wonder of Travel Expos: A Journey Through Beauty and Culture

What to Expect at IITM 2024

The 2024 edition of IITM promises to be a grand affair, featuring an array of exhibitors showcasing everything from luxury resorts to eco-friendly travel options. Visitors can expect interactive displays, cultural performances, and enticing offers designed to cater to every travel preference. Whether you are planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, IITM provides a comprehensive platform to explore, compare, and choose your next destination.

Navigating the Exhibition

Navigating a travel exhibition like IITM requires strategy. Begin by identifying your interests—do you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion? Armed with this clarity, engage with exhibitors who specialize in your preferred destinations or travel styles. Collect brochures, attend presentations, and leverage networking opportunities to glean insider tips and exclusive deals.

Top Destinations to Explore in 2024

Every year, travel trends shift, unveiling new destinations that capture the imagination of globetrotters. At IITM 2024, keep an eye out for emerging hotspots such as Georgia, with its blend of ancient architecture and scenic landscapes, or Costa Rica, celebrated for its biodiversity and sustainable tourism initiatives. Additionally, perennial favorites like Paris, Dubai, and Tokyo continue to charm with their timeless allure and modern amenities.

Industry Insights and Expert Talks

Beyond the glitz and glamour, travel exhibitions serve as incubators for industry insights and expert knowledge. Attend seminars and panel discussions hosted by travel veterans and thought leaders to gain insights into sustainable tourism practices, emerging technologies in travel, and strategies for enhancing travel experiences. These sessions not only inform but also inspire, offering a deeper understanding of global travel dynamics.

The Rise of Sustainable Travel

In recent years, sustainable travel has emerged as a defining trend in the tourism industry. At IITM 2024, expect to encounter exhibitors committed to eco-friendly practices, from hotels powered by renewable energy to tour operators promoting responsible wildlife tourism. Engage with these pioneers to align your travel choices with environmental conservation efforts, ensuring that your adventures leave a positive impact on the destinations you visit.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

For travel professionals, IITM serves as a fertile ground for forging partnerships and collaborations. Whether you are a travel agent seeking new tour packages or a hotelier scouting for international guests, the exhibition floor buzzes with networking opportunities. Exchange ideas, explore synergies, and establish meaningful connections that can propel your business forward in the competitive travel industry.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your experience at IITM 2024, plan ahead. Register early to secure your spot, especially if you intend to participate in exclusive workshops or meet with specific exhibitors. Consider attending on quieter days to engage more deeply with exhibitors and avoid the crowds. And don’t forget to pack business cards—a simple gesture that can open doors to future collaborations and friendships.

Conclusion:

As you navigate the vibrant tapestry of travel exhibitions in 2024, remember that each booth holds a story waiting to be discovered, each destination a journey waiting to unfold. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your maiden voyage, let IITM and similar exhibitions ignite your passion for exploration and broaden your horizons. For in the world of travel expos, the journey truly begins with a single step onto the exhibition floor—a step that promises adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

[digidevtv]

Media Blasters Studio channel contains various titles including, Animeworks, (Japanese animation), Tokyo Shock, (Asian film), and Shriek Show, (Horror). MediaBlasters is home to such groundbreaking titles as the perennial blockbuster, “Berserk,” cult classic “Ichi the Killer,” and the legendary original “Voltron Defender of the Universe” TV series. http://dlvr.it/T7WwZy Pinterest DigiDevTV

[oxfords---notbrogues]

Drake's "Perennials in Tokyo" (2025)

[viaslibrary]

"He's grown more and more plebeian, hasn't he?" I sometimes get wind of such mindless backbiting, and each time I do, I hear my heart's vehement response: I was plebeian from the beginning. You didn't notice? You've got it all backwards. When I was prepared to make literature my life's work, the fools agreed I'd soon be put in my place. I could only smile to myself. Perennial youth is the realm of the actor. It doesn't exist in the world of letters.

Dazai Osamu, "Eight Views of Tokyo" in Self Portraits

[strawberryclementine]

20 questions for writers

Tagged by @conartisthaiji ! Thanks for the tag^^

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

32

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

116,881

3. What fandoms do you write for?

I've written mostly for Tokyo Revengers and Monster, but I've also got a couple of fics for Beyond Evil and Pluto :) the list can grow forever I guess

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

too sweet, Pythagoras, second-hand lipgloss, I've got you Covered!, and beginner's luck! This is almost all Kisaki/Takemichi lol

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

Yes! Feels polite and more fun that way~

6. What's the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Probably they were perennials? The end has a lot of grief

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Uhhh maybe hand in hand since it's about the final happy timeline of Tokyo Revengers

8. Do you get hate on fics?

No, and I'm happy that everyone has been friendly so far~

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

No

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

No, that's not occurred to me yet. It would be cool, though...

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

No, thank goodness

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

No

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

No

14. What's your all-time favourite ship?

Tough question. Maybe Sawako and Kazehaya in Kimi Ni Todoke? They have a special place in my heart<3 I don't write about them though

15. What's a WIP you want to finish, but doubt you ever will?

I don't really have one since my ideas have never been very long or complicated yet. It's pretty much always one shots. I'd like to write a sort of second installment / part 2 to a one shot I wrote a while back, though. Let's see if I do it¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯

16. What are your writing strengths?

Maybe imagery? Idk

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

I struggle with dialogue. Also sometimes I worry my prose is awkward

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

I've not thought about this a lot, but if a character switches the language they are speaking, then that makes sense. I don't know if I understand this question correctly or not..

19. First fandom you wrote for?

Pokémon! when I was in grade school. I wrote it on lined paper in a duotang and it was about Pikachu becoming a pop star haha✨

20. Favourite fic you've ever written?

Idk.. maybe Perfect! which lol the name sounds like I'm calling it perfect, which it isn't by far. But I had so much fun researching for that one and discussing themes with my beta reader ^^

Thanks for the tag! I'm not going to tag anyone, just consider yourself tagged if you see this✨

[msmunifystudyabroad]

Exploring the Top Study Abroad Destinations for 2024

Hey there, globe-trotters and knowledge-seekers! If you're dreaming of studying abroad and broadening your horizons, you're in for a treat. We're diving into the hottest study destinations for 2024, where adventure meets education, and cultural immersion awaits.

Unveiling the Ultimate Study Spots

Let's kick things off with a spotlight on the crème de la crème of study destinations. Whether you're drawn to the allure of ancient history, the buzz of modern cities, or the tranquility of picturesque landscapes, there's something for everyone.

Paris, France: A Timeless Classic

Ah, Paris – the City of Lights and a perennial favorite among students worldwide. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine, studying in Paris is nothing short of a dream come true. From strolling along the Seine to exploring world-class museums like the Louvre, every corner of this enchanting city is brimming with inspiration.

Tokyo, Japan: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

For those craving a taste of the future with a nod to the past, Tokyo is the place to be. This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology, offering students a one-of-a-kind experience. From the serene beauty of traditional tea ceremonies to the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku, Tokyo is a feast for the senses.

Barcelona, Spain: Sun, Sea, and Sangria

Looking to soak up the sun while pursuing your studies? Look no further than Barcelona. Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coast, this vibrant city boasts a perfect blend of sandy beaches, world-renowned architecture, and lively street life. With a thriving international community and a laid-back atmosphere, Barcelona invites students to embrace the Spanish way of life.

Sydney, Australia: Down Under Delights

Down under, where the skies are blue and the vibes are laid-back, Sydney beckons with its irresistible charm. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House to pristine beaches like Bondi, this cosmopolitan city offers a wealth of opportunities for academic and personal growth. Plus, with its diverse population and booming economy, Sydney is a gateway to endless possibilities.

Rome, Italy: The Eternal City

Last but certainly not least, we have Rome – the eternal city that needs no introduction. Home to ancient ruins, world-class cuisine, and a vibrant street culture, studying in Rome is like stepping back in time while embracing the present. Whether you're marveling at the Colosseum or savoring a scoop of gelato, every moment in Rome is an adventure waiting to unfold.

Choosing Your Adventure

So, there you have it – a glimpse into some of the best study abroad destinations for 2024. Whether you're drawn to the romantic streets of Paris, the bustling energy of Tokyo, the laid-back charm of Barcelona, the sunny shores of Sydney, or the timeless beauty of Rome, the world is yours to explore. So pack your bags, sharpen your pencils, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. The classroom awaits – wherever you choose to roam.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world is brimming with incredible opportunities for students looking to study abroad in 2024. Whether you're captivated by the romance of Paris, the innovation of Tokyo, the vibrancy of Barcelona, the beauty of Sydney, or the history of Rome, each destination offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and personal growth. So, don't hesitate to embark on this enriching journey. With the right mindset and a spirit of adventure, overseas education can be a life-changing experience that shapes your future in ways you never imagined. So, seize the opportunity, spread your wings, and let the world become your classroom. Safe travels, and may your educational journey be filled with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons.