#probably no illust until like

[kruinka]

kaiser needs to give ness some headpats. please.

art still wonky but au where kaiser is NOT totally horrible toxic trash stinky smelly man to ness

[nebmia]

Reviewing every rpg book on my shelf: 4, The Stygian Library

It occurs to me that I should be including links to these things... so here you go or here if you like pdfs.

The Stygian Library by Emily Allen is a depth crawl (a term originating with her previous iteration of the concept The Gardens of Ynn) where you delve into a spooky extradimensional library that generates as you explore it.

As the party explores the library you roll on tables of location, detail, and event, with the rolls modified by the depth you are at so things will tend to get weirder and more dangerous the further you get (and you will uncover more about the 'lore' of the library).

The first thing that Library excells at is atmosphere. The whole thing evokes a great blending of creepy and whimsical (aided by Alec Sorenson's evocative illustations). Somthing that helps this that many of the situations generated will not require combat (at least until the party does enough to piss off the denizens of the library to move from rolling on the 'encounters for visitors' table to the far less friendly 'encounters for intruders').

So long as you don't make a nuisance of yourselves it's possible to spend most of your time in the library fiddling with interesting stuff and chatting with amicable (if creepy) academics.

The book advises that you do not need to roll on tables to generate the library ahead of time. It's true that you don't need to but I would suggest that you probably should, unless your players have a fair bit of patience. Rolling all the tables and then looking up the details and stats blocks can take some time and a decent bit of cognative load. On generating my first room I ended up needing to roll a lot of times as I hit the jackpot on 'results that direct you to roll on different tables', which did put some of my more storygamer players backs up a bit.

I ended up calling a 5 min break and quickly prerolling enough rooms to get a good buffer going and I would suggest that as a good plan for anyone else running it. I also found it beneficial to have an idea what was going to be coming next as it gave me the option of linking the events in different rooms together. for instance I had rolled an encounter with some librarians that turned up badly injured and, as I knew what monster I had rolled in the next room, I was able to link those together and set up the next encounter.

Its a great book, but be prepared to flip back and forwards through it a lot (or be more sensible than me and print out some of the things you will need to keep referencing)

[computerpeople]

in my rewrite i'd be doing away with all of the multiple choices, especially since i'm not a game developer and i'd likely eityher make it fully written or partially illustated, but not a game or animation in any way, and focus on the characters themselves and build up on what i can. the butterfly effect will still be present but in a lot smaller, less meta way. the butterfly effect will have deeper ties to the idea of "small little choices can lead to massive, massive consequences" much like how the prank started off small and lead to not only hannah and beths death but also created a chain event that lead to josh attempting suicide and eventually pulling HIS prank, and how all of these things were just a build up of small little mistakes all of them had made.

i think the butterfly effect doesn't make any sense in the game, it was a big boom around that time and a hot topic (considering there are multiple other games from 2015 that also had it as a theme) but i think until dawn probably executes it the worst. it's not a game related to TIME in any way? i mean, it is, for sure, considering the name and the time limits, but the butterfly effect only makes sense if youre doing small, minuscule changes that affect things in unforeseen ways later in the future. but then its like "you gave matt the gun, butterfly effect moment!" and then the 'butterly effect' it has in the future is. matt using the gun LIKE COME ON

[hugepolecat3298]

that one stupid pancake image but it’s international milgram fans and there are only 2 pancakes and one of them is ‘after pain es cover’ and the other one is ‘mikoto mv announcement but for real this time’

[lonelyvomit]

abby, can we have an arty analysis of the album cover (now it's confirmed) 🙏🏻🎨🖼🤲🏻

dunno about an analysis but I'll happily give an uneducated art rant ✨😌

what stands out to me first is that using a band feature photograph it's a step out of line from their previous album covers, which in the past have been 2 designed graphics and a stock photo. but it's not like band feature covers are out of character for them either - they've done a lot of those with their singles (I didn't even realize they did it this much until now lmao). it's not uncommon for bands to use a mix of covers, but I've noticed most bands do have their preferences in terms or illustative vs. photograph covers, and whether or not the band itself is featured in it. so far BC has definitely favored band photos for single covers, but leaned towards design heavy covers for the main album releases.

that being said, LOTSAD follows Violent Pop really closely with the black and white color theme, heavy texture filter, fairly similar font choice, and most of all opting out from having the band name on the cover and counting on the logo to do it's thing. if the album name wasn't there and you told me the LOTSAD cover is just the cover for Violent Pop Deluxe Edition, I'd probably believe you.

in terms of the photo itself - I like the composition and the visual flow. it has Kiril's signature style (which Niko confirmed on ig literally while I was writing this lmao), and the result is great. there is however some things with the editing that I'm sure work perfectly fine in most people's eyes, but I'll nitpick it anyway.

first is the fact that it's impossible to mangle someone's face like that, stretching it from natural live proportions into a hanging mask, without messing with the skin texture and lighting. which means there's some little spots where the lighting bothers me or I think there's been some airbrushing. tho not much, because most of it gets blended with the scratchy texture filter. which is my second point - I'm not a fan of the texture overlay. it can be an artistic choice, BC does love their heavy editing, and it does include the words "sick & dangerous", so it was clearly created specifically for this cover. but filters are also a quick way of hiding photoshop mistakes, so something this heavily edited always makes me squint to see if it's something that was actually planned from the start, or if there's some photoshop fuckups it's being used to hide or distract from. knowing how much stretching people's faces does undeniably fuck shit up, I think here it's a case of both. it's fine, it fits BC's aesthetic and is hell of a lot easier than trying to reintroduce the old skin texture to every part you've had to edit. Ossi did a good job with what he had to work with and what he was asked to do, and I do appreciate the texture overlay being personalized for the album.

overall it's an awesome cover, it's extremely on brand for them, and well executed 🔥

[amaya-chwan]

Hinohara Meguru Exhibition Original Goods Preview/Listing is up!

Hello lovelies! ❤️💛💜❤️🤍💙

Hinohara-sensei just dropped all the upcoming goods you'll be able to find at her upcoming exhibition from Thursday, the 23rd of September!! 😍🥰✨

These particular images are from this Dear+ Twitter post! Alternatively, you can also view the complete listing on Hinohara-sensei's Gengaten webpage here!

If you're not in Japan and would like to purchase these goods, remember:

🎉 These goods will be available on Animate Online after the exhibition for mail order! 🎉

If I am correct in my assumption, you probably won't be able to get these goods through Animate International. So your best bet would be to order through a Japanese Proxy Shopping Service!

Also, can I just take a minute to gush over all the illustations?!?!?!?!??

*Internally: ASDFGJLDFJKBWLIUVBLKDSJVB OH MY GAWD! 😍😍😍*

The exhibition runs until Monday, the 4th of October, so we should see the listing soon after on Animate! (Gives us time to prepare, haha!)

Not too sure how long these goods will be available on there, so my only advice is to prepare your selections well in advance, and to order when the items go live to order!

Thank you for reading this far! 💜 Good luck in your preparations and let's continue to support Sensei in her current and future endeavours! 🎉

As always, take care and stay safe~ ❤️💛💜

[imaginesfora3]

the juza one is a daily illust countdown until the new act unlock on jp server! prevs days were sakuya, misumi and azuma!

Oh well I knew that I just didn't know the specifics behind what it will entail! I've heard there's people discussing it on twitter too which is why it's confusing because i was like... its probably just for a new play in Act 3? I just know the only detail about anything we go is the picture of him

~Writer Admin

[twst-florenetta]

6th November: Lucetta Montague | Birthday Interview 🐴

Part 1

Happy birthday, Lulu!

🐴: Thank you, Prefect!! I’m super excited today!!

I was going to ask how did you feel about the celebrations, can you explain why you’re so excited?

🐴: I never had a big party growing up, not enough friends for that. It was usually just me and my parents.

🐴: I love how they changed out the slacks for a lolita-style skirt, but the sash is kinda uncomfortable, it keeps shifting spots.

🐴: It’s really nice because I can get away with more pranks than I usually do! Nyehehe~

What about your family?

🐴: They called me this morning! Ma got me a cute dress I had my eye on and Dad sent some tea bags!

🐴: I’m really happy that Ma bought the dress even though she shot it down almost immediately a few months ago since it’s pricey~

🐴: Dad had probably been gossiping with the neighbours because I got gifts from a bunch of them too!

🐴: They mainly sent some stuff like food, some practical things like stationery, and some even gave me money!

Is your family close with your neighbours?

🐴: Dad mostly, me and Ma are too rowdy for them. (laughs)

🐴: He shares the gossip with us at dinner anyway so same thing~

Your family seems really carefree and easygoing!

🐴: Again, just Dad. Me and Ma are stubborn as hell. (laughs)

🐴: Then again, no one would try to argue with us. Too much work to try and win over people as stubborn as us.

———

Part 2

Why do you like playing pranks so much?

🐴: I get to have fun and I can piss off whoever I like!

🐴: I used to straight up beat people when I was younger, but there’s only so many times you can do it before you get expelled.

You’ve gotten expelled?

🐴: Yep! Don’t regret it!

🐴: Went to some supposedly fancy school before and the other kids would yank my ears and tail, or they’d ruin my schoolwork ‘n stuff.

🐴: I couldn’t do anything about it. My parents couldn’t do anything about it. The school didn’t want to do anything about it because corruption, y’know.

🐴: Ma taught me how to fight cause I felt like if I transferred I’d lose, and I hate losing.

🐴: It was wild cause they kept thinking that I’d stop after punishment but I continued beating them up until I got expelled.

Well, I hope that things are better for you now!

🐴: Thanks Prefect~! I don’t wanna get expelled from NRC cause I like everyone here, or most people at least.

🐴: Still gotta get my fun one way or another though!

🐴: Plus, it’s not like I’m setting fire to the school or anything, it’s just harmless fun for the most part!

———

Part 3

How did you learn how to rap?

🐴: It came relatively easy to me I guess?

🐴: I did struggle a bit in the beginning because it was so hard to pronounce things clearly and quickly without messing up.

🐴: I got pretty used to it over time though!

What about productions with Florenetta?

🐴: I like it a lot! It’s tiring but fun! Plus we get parties after!

🐴: It kinda sucks that I’m so short because I don’t really stand out, if you can even see me...

🐴: But I also like moving things, surprisingly! Having the weight of something in your hands can be calming sometimes!

🐴: To be fair, I get a lot of roles in Florenetta’s covers. I’m usually the main rapper in vocal ones, and main dancer in, well, dance covers.

🐴: It does even itself out...kinda (laughs)

I think your voice is lovely, and your rapping is really cool!

🐴: Thanks Prefect!

🐴: Growing up, it was pretty funny because people never expected my voice to be as deep as it is.

🐴: While I don’t like being mistaken for a lost kid, I never get tired of seeing people be so shocked that my voice sounds deeper than they thought it was.

🐴: I like it a lot though! It helped with my ‘cool and powerful’ image, and my fans like it too!

Thank you for answering all our questions! Once again, happy birthday!

[End illust: Lulu winking at the camera as she enjoys her birthday cake. Her birthday suit is hung on the wall in the background, and instead, she’s wearing the dress that she got from her mother.]

[my-oc-database]

ok to compile shit cleanly:

(lots of these characters r unnamed pensive emoji.. none of the stories have names either so i just used a vague descriptor that theyre associate w to refer to them)

also this is incomplete cause im working on diff parts of the story at diff times and i dont feel like filling out details of the ones im not focused on rn! this will be edited in the future!

Cube:

Playable Characters

Mantis/? - Main Protagonist. Storybook illustator.

Stats: Low HP, High Speed, Medium Attack, Medium Defense

Double Jump+Wall Jump

A bit nervous a lot of the time, and also kinda sad. Cares about people a lot.

Was kinda just doing whatever. Only left their hometown on the request of Clay who was apparently struggling to find someone to help with... something that they were vague about but the existence of Hand showed there was validity to.

Likes to draw

Gift: Coat

Color Theme: Green

Crab/? - Deuteragonist. Mechanic.

Stats: High HP, Low Speed, Low Defense, High Attack

A fucking TANK

Very outgoing and talkative. If left to their own devices WILL cause trouble.

Left their hometown because they wanted to help Mantis. They just care about Mantis a lot and want to help out :)

Likes to mess with machinery

Gift: Bow

Color Theme: Orange

Clay/? - Plot-Based Main Character

Stats: Medium HP, Medium Speed, High Attack, Low Defense

Good with weapons, some undecided plot-based trait

Friendly and extremely blunt. Generally optimistic but gets uncomfortable fairly fast.

Was trying to find someone to help with the situation going on with their siblings. Just sort of... travelled around looking for someone until Mantis agreed to help.

Likes to dance

Gift: Cape

Color Theme: Purple

Bunny/? - Main Character

Stats: Low HP, High Speed, Low Attack, High Defense

Dashing, exploring tight spots

Quiet and ominous but cute :)

Was a kid that just sort of... showed up at one point and wouldnt leave. Was somewhat trying to find someone to help out their own siblings who are struggling, but failed to even try to elaborate on it and got distracted by the things going on.

Undecided interests

Gift: Scarf

Color Theme: Indigo

Water/? - Main Character. Ice Cream's girlfriend.

Stats: Medium HP, Medium Speed, Medium Attack, Low Defense

Walking on walls, swimming. Doesnt jump

A bit rude and deadpan. Doesnt have much of an interest in others.

Only came along because Ice Cream wanted to help Mantis.

Undecided interests

Gift: Hat

Color Theme: Blue

Ice Cream/? - Main Character. Water's girlfriend. Baker and general chef.

Stats: High HP, Medium Speed, Low Attack, Medium Defense

Healing

Quiet but charismatic. Is able to make friends fairly easiĺy, but not closer ones.

Came along because they wanted to help Mantis with what was going on.

Likes to cook

Gift: Headband

Color Theme: Pink

Eye/? - Main Character

Stats: Low HP, Low Speed, High Attack, Medium Defense

Flying

Quiet but tries very hard to make friends. Very sweet but finds interaction a bit difficult.

Just wanted to help out

Undecided interests

Gift: Bracelet

Color Theme: Red

NPCs

Mantis' Hometown

Ribbon/? - ?

Mantis' pet/? - Is an animal commonly found near Mantis' hometown. Is Mantis' pet :)

Bunny's Family

Otter/? - Bunny's brother, oldest of the 3

Nervous and stressed a lot. Has no clue what hes doing but trying so hard to do it

Color Theme: Undecided

Bird/? - Bunny's sister, middle child of the 3

Very optimistic :) Has no clue what she is doing and doesnt worry about it that much. itll Probably work out. Can be a bit ominous

Color Theme: Magenta

Lab

Robot/? - Head of the lab

Wants to be evil so bad. Fails

Color Theme: Grey

Astronaut/? - Works at the lab. Sibling of Ferret

Quiet. Doesnt care all that much. Very level-headed

Color Theme: Purple and Blue

Ferret/? - Works at the lab. Sibling of Ferret

Loud. Cares SO much but not in a compassion way so much as an "AAAHHH" way. Easily annoyed

Color Theme: Purple and Pink

Water Town

Frog/? - Minor NPC

Unspecified

Flower Pot/? - ?

Butterfly/? - ?

Honeycomb/? - Possible minor antagonist

Camel Spider/? - Possible side character

Dog/? - Possible side character

Two/? - Possible minor antagonist

Snake Puppy/? - Minor NPC

Mushroom/? - Minor NPC

Mouse/? - Possible Minor Antagonist

Pieces/? - Possible Side Character

Tree/? - Minor NPC

Star/? - Minor NPC

Coat/? - Minor NPC

Tail/? - Minor NPC

Cat/? - Minor NPC

Knight/? - Lore-based NPC

Apple/? - Lore-based NPC

Plant/? - Minor NPC

Metal/? - Major NPC. Puppet's partner. Smiths weapons and armor.

Very quiet and sweet. Doesnt really like to talk to people

Color Theme: Blue

Shopkeepers

Potions/? - Potion shopkeeper. Makes and sells the potions they make

Tries so hard to be funny. Tries SO hard

Color Theme: Green

Puppet/? - Weapons and armor shopkeeper. Metal's partner. Sells the weapons and armor Metal makes.

Deadpan but friendly. A bit sarcastic

Color Theme: Red

Dinosaur/? - Clothing shopkeeper. Tends to give clothes in exchange for (often minor) favors.

Sweet but very ominous. Cares about people SO much

Color Theme: Lime green

Plot-Important Characters

Space/? - Created the cube that surrounds the planet. Mother of Sun, Cloud, Cell, Clay, and Dinnerware.

Ethereal but in more of a fucked up way. is loving very sad but can be very controlling

Color Theme: Blue

Sun/? - One of two main antagonists. Oldest sibling of Space's children.

Asshole. Is trying his best but also is an asshole. Cares about others but is an asshole still

Closest with Dinnerware

Color Theme: Yellow

Cloud/? - Second oldest sibling of Space's children.

Outgoing but can be a bit rude. Pretty dismissive

Closest with Cell

Color Theme: Magenta

Cell/? - Middle sibling of Space's children.

Easily annoyed and basically always is. Very distrustful

Closest with Cloud

Color Theme: Teal

Clay/? - One of the playable main characters. Second youngest sibling of Space's children.

See Playable Characters

Not particularly close with any of their siblings

Dinnerware/? - One of two main antagonists. Youngest sibling of Space's children.

An asshole but nervous. Theyre trying theyre best just fucking shit up in the process. Wants to be poggers but isnt

Closest with Sun

Color Theme: Gray

Hand/? - Minor antagonist. A creation of Sun's.

[from here stuff isnt filled out fully]

Maze:

Main Characters

Mermaid/? - Main protagonist. The only playable character.

Blob/? - Side character

Dragon/? - Side character

Shrimp/? - Side character

Shopkeepers

8-bit/? - ?

Antagonists

Pumpkin/? - Main antagonist

Computer:

Main Characters

Side Characters

Game:

Main Characters

NPCs

Shopkeepers

Platformer:

Main Characters

NPCs

RPG:

Main Characters

NPCs

Shopkeepers

Plot Based Characters

Antagonists

[nana-lin]

being born as minority in this country, having history laid in front of me with mass crime targetting women from our race in 1998, having had our race being the target of massive hatred and violent taught me that this wall exists.

Our skin color and our eye shape is not what makes this wall stand tall, but our history. How do one forgive what happened in the past, when it was never properly addressed by people in power? How do one accept that she is not in danger just because it is not present? 

Through out time tho I make friends and became best of friend, sharing the same thoughts from the people of this land. I learned that we worship our God different way, I kneel, they bow down. We both do fasting to each of our religion rule. We dress differently. And all that differences showed that when we want to understand, sometimes we can. This wall exists still, but we will respect that while from time to time we build windows and door for friendship to bloom within this wall.

We had that, until one day hate speech risen, slowly from beneath the surface. One day I feel like the windows are shut, the doors are locked, and once again this wall grows taller, thicker. And that time, I also locked my door, shut my window. Hate is two ways, you know.

However some time passes and I realized I focuses only on the locked doors and shutted windows, not realizing the other doors, some of them open their door wider, some of them reach out from the windows, telling me that they dont know our pain as minority, but they understand that was wrong. Hate speech is wrong. Framing one as crime and less than is wrong. 

The world is grey. I can’t say that the people who shutted their door were wicked, because I don’t know what kind of frame the other people showed them. Because when we learn the whole story, then we have bigger frame, then our lens become clearer, and we see the world different way.

This pandemic strangely, instead of locking doors and shutting windows, it opens them. The high walls became shorter. Lending hands, helping hands, come not from the highly trusted religion speaker, but from the people who holds little power. The ordinary people. The people who is probably busy whisking dalgona coffee, but they also send however little money to those they know need them. Through crowdfunding or whatever media. 

See this people are much less significant than those who speak to thousand people congregation, but they do things, no matter how small.

I like this illustation my friend wrote, when the roof is leaking water because there is heavy rain, is it wrong to fix the roof? is it wrong to mop the floor? Is it wrong to grab a pail so the water wont spill larger?

What is the purpose of being the ‘light of the world’, when one cant see their own darkness?

[bigskycastle]

ask

Yup! I’m gonna use this ask to answer the other ones finally lol

Hehe that’s a cute idea.. that’s sort of what I imagined the “special ready” effect is, but it would definitely be cooler if instead of just glowing/moving a bit their hair cycled through a bunch of colors

Hi! Oh that’s pretty broad uhhhhhhhh id say.. well. it’s N from pokemon bw but most of the characters I end up liking are just, like, silent protags lol

Honestly? at first nervous and uncomfortable because I very much forgot how to draw humans. But i’m feeling tons better about it now and having a lot of fun with it^_^

Awh thank you ! ❤ you’re also cool

Good at the moment! Got a 4 day weekend every week now so I should (maybe?) be able to be more active here. Also FINALLY have a doctor’s apptmt today so i can see someone about my mental health shit and possibly, perhaps, potentially actually get help lol

You’re sweet, thank you❤ I’d like to redo my spectrum piece at some point just because i think i’ve evolved a little stylistically since I finished it, but I still like it despite that. And ty again! They’re very relaxing for me now lol, I’m glad we (against all odds) got a zelda game with one

I think I first saw a streamer playing it when I dropped by their twitch page on a whim, and I saw all the clothing options and immediately decided “i must buy a switch just to play this game”. The fashion aspect is still one of my favorite things about it lol. 

I think my Favorite part has to be the singleplayer modes, in partic agents though (predictably), bc they’re exactly the sort of “mostly blank slate” characters+worlds I get attached to.. I’ve always rly enjoyed sort of filling in the gaps left behind in media, even if that means what I end up loving at the end is 90% headcanon stuff. I think that’s the best way 2 interact with media anyway. making it more personal. 

It’s always very cool seeing everyone’s different takes on the agents/splat world, and it’s Very cool how I can post a pic of, like, agent 3 and have a bunch of different people each see a totally different character, you know? But yeah i like the shoes in splatoon

Honestly kinda rough but I’m trying! I’ve started college now and the people there are nice enough, plus it’s got incredibly cushy hours and is pretty light on actual “learning”, but it’s good, I needed some kind of break from academia before I straight up died

I’m happy you enjoy it anon!!!!!! I will :-)! I’ve got a lot planned for zelda art in the near future, i just have to finish some commissions and stuff before I can properly work on it

I’ve never “studied” officially, but i’ve been drawing for like, 5-6ish years now? I didn’t pick it up until I was about 10 and didn’t rly commit until I was maybe 12. The course i took at college is meant to be art-focused, however, the stuff they’re teaching is like.. not a brag! but stuff I do already know. Like, a tutor tried to explain what “pixel art” is to me on my first day. I mostly took it to try and learn some Maya skills because I do want to pick up 3D art one day!

Ty! This question’s pretty similar to the last so i’ll put it here. I’ve been slacking on my actual studying a bit, most of what I do is force myself to draw anything every day. Doesnt matter if its a wonky doodle of a face on the back of a napkin or if its a full illust, its practice, it counts. Also, trying to shove myself out of my own comfort zone by doing things like environments and very detailed things (motorcycle.). It’s very rewarding just to look at something you made and think “I thought this was impossible before right now”.

hmmmmMm... I can’t think of any just off the top of my head but my friend @nickymemer (I think?) put the idea of Zelda, whenever shes sick of link and her dads’ collective shit, just running off to gerudo town to hang out with urbosa and the rest of the gerudo court, in my head and i love that a lot

Thank you thank you! As of rn it’s botw but that’s probably because it’s the only one i’ve played by myself. I watched a 30 hour longplay of twilight princess and really loved that though. I did watch an lp of both majora and ocarina but I get the feeling i’m missing a big part of the experience of both bc i’m not playing them. (That or they’re overhyped.) If i get a bit more cash at some point I’ll probably get both on my 3ds.

Alright that’s all I think! Thank you everyone ❤

[rockethorse]

uhhh

Am I imagining it, or do the Freezer Bunny wall decals from Seasons bear a resemblance to my 2013 Freezer Bunny calendar fanart?

(TS4 Seasons)

(The tiny resolution I uploaded to DeviantART)

Obviously a lot of these are nothing alike, and many of the others are common ideas, but then you remember the concept of “wall deco that uses flat-coloured illustrations of Freezer Bunny to abstractly represent times of the year and holidays/celebrations” is actually kind of niche to be a coincidence in the first place

There are a few that are kind of similar, and together they add to be a bit suspicious (cupid, new years champagne, Freezer Bunny in gift wrapping, etc.), but I was still like “I’m just being paranoid/dramatic/egotistical-” UNTIL i saw THIS one

(left, Sims 4 Seasons: Right, mine, 2013)

THIS, to me, does not seem like it could possibly be a coincidence, and I’ll tell you why

First. I secretly do have experience doing artwork for big companies on a similar level to EAxis (different genre but same idea). They ABSOLUTELY hand artists random uncredited reference pictures as “inspiration” for what they want. Second, this illust series was featured on the official Sims Facebook page for a while after I posted it, so I know EAxis is aware of it.

The colours of the flowers, the PROPORTIONS of the flowers (Freezer Bunny is not canonically depicted as being this small), the expression, and the way the flower is positioned around FB are all, IMO, too close to be coincidence. I know some of you are already thinking I’m wrapping myself in tinfoil, BUT consider: each of those factors, each of those steps in the concepting/drawing process, would have to be independently conceived. At EACH step the artists have to ask themselves what direction they’re going to go (”what colour should the flower be? what shape? what size? what position? what about the flower it’s holding? what about its expression? what about its pose?” etc) and for EACH of those to line up as closely as they do... well, it would be very, very unlikely to be a coincidence, just like it’s unlikely to “coincidentally” write the exact same essay as your classmate with a few words changed.

I know just how slap-dash “mood”/”reference” pools can be (I’ve had executives literally email me the blurry Google preview thumbnails of uncredited art as a “reference”), it’s totally plausible (to me) that my old art could‘ve been floating around on someone’s computer at EAxis and it ended up in some outsourced artist’s pile of reference materials, who probably thought it was EAxis content. And again, if this had been an isolated piece of art, I would probably still think it’s a coincidence, but not only is it visually similar the CONTEXT is exactly the same (a calendar abstractly representing different seasons/holidays)

I know some of you are definitely reading this like

But I’m telling you! This is what happens in the industry lmao!!

After all that though I don’t... care. Even if I could prove they referneced my work, it’s not tracing or copying any direct elements, so it’s not plagiarism. And I still just don’t really care. IF (and it IS still a big “if”) some intern somewhere was given a low-res copy of my old art ripped from Facebook and told “quick, we want something like this we can throw into the Seasons EP,” then I’m flattered, but for now all I can really do is look at it and wonder if maybe, just maybe, this is the spiritual successor to my old calendar, LMAO.

[abripikuunah]

Thalassophile

Pairing: Odazai (Oda Sakunosuke x Dazai Osamu) || Word Count: 5201 || Rating: Teen and Up (Imply Suicide, Light Angst, Fluff)

A/N: My first submission for Odazai Week! Day 3 ( Gakuen Au ) !!!!This has illustations so I hope you would like this gift of mine!  Comments and Criticism is very much appreciated and I want to here your thoughts! I hope you have enjoyed this fic <3.

Summary:

The footprints in the sand carries the existence of our adored past, but the waves full of painful memories has swept it all away...

Only the moon and the starless sky was present that time.

It was cold, so cold that the temperature feel like it was squeezing him, from his flesh reaching through his nerves and bones, leaving him breathless, but it felt right.

Water fills his insides as he let himself drown in the salty water. His hazy eyes watched the light of the moonlight reflect on the sea, imitating a barrier between his pathetic life and the afterlife he desired. He's so close to it, as he could feel the corner of his sight blurring. His insides are screaming in the burning sensation as they're about to be filled with ice prickling water.

So cold, very cold.

Just how it should be.

He closes his eyes, and let the flash of white overcome him and his senses.

But before that happens, a certain red stained all of it.

 “Oh…”

.

.

.

THUD!

That’s the last thing he heard before his vision was turned into complete darkness. He didn't know what happened after that. There's nothing to see, nothing to hear, just blankness. Had death finally consumed him whole, and threw him away from his miserable life?

No… that felt too cheap.

He isn’t sure where he is today, but the next thing he knew, he was staring upward at a white ceiling with a fan rotating to circulate fresh air.

‘I’m not dead.’

“Hey.” A voice calls from behind him.

He looks at the corner of his eye to see his company, just to make sure his guess was right. Red eyes that resembled the warm hues of the sunset in some sky; it felt so warm and comforting. Its radiance was soft, as if those eyes could relax Dazai just by looking at him. The two kept staring at each other, as Dazai smiles while turning his head, twisting his body for a bit before greeting back, “Hey-” Only to feel a sharp pain pricked somewhere in his brain  “Ow, ow it hurts…” The brunet mumbled, massaging his temples.

“Careful. What happened almost caused you to get paralyzed.” The other man sighs as he inserts a bookmark in the book and scooted closer to inspect the injured man. Dazai gave out a chuckle and was about to retort to assure the man he's alright, but his breath was caught in the air when he felt a thumb caressing his unbandaged cheek. He bit his lower lip before they hesitantly turned upward into a faint smile. “I'm fine, Odasaku. Of all people, you should be the one who knows that a mere slip wouldn't kill me.”

The red head looks at him with disbelief, “You never know Dazai.“ he says, his voice bold and strict. The younger man frowned at him, much like a toddler whose toy was taken. But can you blame Oda? Dazai might have survived all the punishments of his past mishaps or attempts, but in the end Dazai is still a human, born with flesh and bones just like the rest of them. Not immortal nor a being that could regenerate his wounds quickly. Granted, his body does have an impressive remark on healing himself for such a surprising speed but there would always be the time Dazai won't be so lucky.

“Geez Odasaku, I told you, I’m fine and as you can see, I'm well.” he opened his arms widely for emphasis, but was only given a raise of a brow in reply. “Though my heads hurts a little- but my body can manage.” A grin was etched on his face to assure his companion, and Dazai quickly changed the subject. “Getting gloomy when I just woke up, no? Let talk about something else shall we?” He then points at the hardcover book Oda was holding, “All those books that you've been reading, are they for your upcoming program?” He inspects the title as the red head nods. “My, you seemed excited to become a teacher~”

“Student teacher.” He corrects the brunet who sits up, “It'll just last two months. Starting from the second half of the semester until the last week of your third quarter. After that I'll go back to college and finish my degree.” Oda adds.

“Wahh!” Dazai immediately twisted away to raise his arm to cover his eyelids and make a dramatic fuss, ”Odasaku will leave me alone and rot at campus all by myself. So heartless and cruel of you, leaving your dear friend and lover like this.This pain is much worse than being tortured to sweet, blissful death-”

And he let out another exaggerated cry when a throb pulsed through his head.

The older could only watch the younger complain about his concussion without giving any help - until he decided to hold on Dazai's chin so he could reprimand him with a stern glare, “Maybe if you didn't keep yourself getting injured. We’re both college students attending the same campus now.”

Dazai opened his mouth, ready to protest, but when no words are able to form to escape his mouth, he immediately closes it before puffing his cheeks and shot back, “So mean,  Odasaku-sensei.”

That phrase causes butterflies in Oda’s stomach, but he doesn't want to cater to those thoughts for now. He gently pinches Dazai's cheek, who whines in protest. “Don't call me like that when we're both alone.” Despite the warning, Dazai gripped Oda's hand and smirked mischievously, “What was that, Odasaku- sen~sei~?”

Oda pinches a bit harder and Dazai yelps, “What am I gonna do with you?” the older sighs.

When he stops pinching, they stare into each other’s eyes. Dazai's pupils traced every feature of his partners face looking for slightest bits of changes other than the heavy eyebags that took toll on his skin - probably for staying up to check on him, Dazai deducts. But that mere thought gave a fluttering feeling in Dazai's chest.

At the same time, Oda just gazed at him tenderly, but noticed a little bit of redness in younger man’s cheek. Oda takes the initiative and leans towards Dazai's face to give a chaste peck on his crimson skin as an apology. When he pulls away, Dazai sits up properly and snakes his arms around Oda's neck while the latter placed the book on the nearest coffee table and lets the brunet take the initiative. Dazai then tries to catch his lips and soon after, their lips connect and share a innocent kiss, hopefully to express the words ‘I miss you’ and ‘I'm so worried’ through the contact. Dazai tilts his head to coax himself closer -

That is, until another pulse from his migraine hit him. He quickly pulled away, yelping a little while massaging the sides of his temples to relieve the pressure a little. “Rest for a bit, Dazai.” Oda instructs as he let out a deep exhale, “I'll let the doctor know you're awake.” He stands up, only for a hand to grab his wrist.

“Stay for a bit will you? “ the brunet pouts. “I don't know how long I was unconscious and I don't want to see the doctors immediately after I just woke up from that cold, soundless sleep.” He gently adjusted himself to the side, careful not to trigger anymore pain and extended his arm out, “Come here and snuggle with me, Sensei!”

“Stop that.”

“Never~” Dazai continued to tease.

Then Oda gave another glare down at the floor and was silent, but Dazai shyly looked up at him like a stray kitten.

“Please?”

Oda huffs in amusement as he shook his head. Honestly speaking, Oda doesn't have the will to refuse his lover, even if he didn't have to put up that adorable act. “Fine.” he declares as he walks back towards the brunet who smiles in victory.

“Okay but after ten minutes, I'll call the doctor.”

“An hour!”

“Dazai… Twenty minutes or I won’t make curry for you.” Oda argues.

“Ehhhh?! Fine.” He scoffs childishly.

When he walked towards the brunet, Dazai asks “That look on your face… Did I worry you too much?” he smiled as he watched Oda sit on the bed, the bedframe underneath squeaking in protest. When Oda’s weight sinks in the mattress, he helped Dazai settle in next to him, careful not to bump the syringes and pads connecting Dazai to the heart monitor and IV tube. Lanky arms wrap around Oda’s chest while the redhead gripped Dazai’s hips and pulled his body closer. Dazai sighed with bliss as he let his head rest on Oda’s chest. “See? I'm still warm Odasaku. I'm still breathing, alive. You don't have to worry.”

“Well you did fell on the stairs four steps away from the ground.” His companion says in defense, resting his cheek on Dazai's hair. “That alone is concerning and you can risk yourself bumping your head pretty hard and having an internal hemorrhage. Thankfully you didn’t break your spine either, since-”

“Odasaku,” the brunet stops him, “How many times do I need to tell you that I won't die that easily? Geez, a mere trip down the stairs is an embarrassing death after all. I don't want the neighbors to brand me, Dazai Osamu, the bandaged man that died because he fell of the stairs. I would be the laughing stock of the century if that happens!” He huffs, grimacing at the thought. “I would rather have a sweet romantic suicide with a beautiful lady. That alone is poetic.”

Dazai really likes to slip words in his tounge like water without thinking any consideration, Oda thought with a grimace on his face. Despite Oda getting used to hear his whims about suicide and tantalized about death accepting him from this ‘miserable cruel’ world, Oda can't shake off the thought of seeing Dazai in his deathbed. Even with spending much of his time lecturing the young man, the words coming from the third year’s mouth stings painfully in Oda’s chest.

But despite it all, he still continues to be with him, willingly to check up on him and make sure he's not alone because-

Because he loves Dazai.

“I'm just scared to lose you…” he finally admits under his breath.

“Not like last time...”

None of them uttered out a word after, Oda was only waiting for Dazai's reply, wanting to know how he would react, but knowing Dazai, he won't show anything at all. Dazai's breath was stuck in the air, unable to reply to his confession. He's glad that Oda cannot see his expression at this angle or he would probably jerk away from him if this man had witnessed the redness of his ashamed face. When he felt the grip on his waist tighten, he scooted closer and hid his face in Oda’s chest. “Heh, silly Odasaku…”

They continued to stay like that for minutes, Oda keeps stroking the fringes of his hair, Dazai keep listening to Oda's heartbeats pounding, thump thumping in his ears. They chatted about him being unconscious for two days, then onto the news that's happening in their neighborhood. The middle school graduates, including Nakajima and Tanizaki, were becoming first years and they would soon be Dazai's schoolmates. The other piece of news they discussed is that Kunikida, one of Dazai's ex-classmates, was offered a student teacher position at Dazai’s school by none other than Fukuzawa himself. But the big news they talked about was-

“What?!” Dazai exclaimed.

Oda had to live at his university for a whole semester - and to make matters worse, he was going to be leaving tomorrow. “Just how? The semester doesn’t start for another week or so, right? I thought you're okay with commuting?”

“It was sudden, but Natsume-sensei offered me to stay at his place for the time being since he thinks it'll be more practical and I would lose a lot of opportunities just by traveling everyday for a long period of time.” he kissed Dazai's cheek to lighten up his mood and assure him. “I'll be back next month. Don't worry.”

“Hmph, fine. But you better bring me something when you return back home.”

Home…

Those words make Oda chuckle as adoration bubbled up his chest, “Will do, Dazai.” As his lips pressed against his forehead.

This continued on until Dazai looks out the window and sees the view of the ocean from afar. A thought came into his mind, but Dazai hesitates if he should even mention it. But then again, this would be the last day the two of them would see each other until three whole months passed.

“Odasaku.”

So it doesn't hurt to try.

“You know, I made you worry for no good reason.” He starts, shifting from his position to meet his lover’s gaze. Oda looks at him with a brow raised. He smirks, “As an apology, I'll be doing you the favor of going to the beach with me. I think I’ll get discharged today anyway, since I think I'm a good shape now. It's been a while since we visited there together, what do you think?”

The older blinks at his partner’s invitation and looks at the ceiling to ponder. “Well…”

“Beside, I won't see you in months.” He adds, hoping to finally be able to convince the man besides him.

The redhead took a deep breath. He seems to be contemplating with his thoughts while Dazai waited for a reply, but then he felt Oda pulling away from his grasp. Oda stands up and fixes the collar of his shirt, “I'll go fetch the doctor then. I'll be back quick.” he turns around and gave a small tilt to check on Dazai, who just smiles.

“Hurry up then, while the sun is still up.”

----

Only the moon and the starless sky was present that time.

It was cold, so cold that the temperature feel like it was squeezing him, from his flesh reaching through his nerves and bones, leaving him breathless, but it felt right.

Water fills his insides as he let himself drown in the salty water. His hazy eyes watched the light of the moonlight reflect on the sea, imitating a barrier between his pathetic life and the afterlife he desired. He's so close to it, as he could feel the corner of his sight blurring. His insides are screaming in the burning sensation as they're about to be filled with ice prickling water.

So cold, very cold.

Just how it should be.

He closes his eyes, and let the flash of white overcome him and his senses.

But before that happens, a certain red stained all of it.

---

Scarlet eyes worriedly trailed behind the lean figure as Oda watched the boy excitedly take of his shoes while examining the beach. Fortunately, the doctor said Dazai was free to leave, but has to be cautious, not move his head so much, and not perform any heavy activities for quite awhile. “Be careful.“ he reminded the exuberant Dazai.

But his words seems to be ignored in the playful breeze as Dazai turns around, waving at Oda and shouting “Odasakuuuu!” before running back to him and yanking his arm to invite themselves closer to the sea. “Come on! You can't have me just enjoying the sea by myself! I would look stupid.”

“But the doctors said that you're not allowed to move your head too much-” he was interrupted when a finger was pressed against his lips.

“Oh hush and do me a favor by not reminding me about those cruel instructions by that doctor, and let me enjoy this last day of summer with you for a bit, okay?” Dazai fumed, but when he notice the darkness of Oda’s expression, his face shifted into worry.

Oda… Oda wanted to say no, the anxiety that's pounding inside his chest was demanding for him to decline and be strict. He wished to say he's already being considerate, escorting him to the beach despite these disturbing emotions that crawling up his spine. Yet he doesn't want Dazai to be upset, but in the end, he was afraid of both outcomes. He thought of himself as nothing but a coward.

A coward that let those horrible memories of the two of them being wrapped by the ocean’s deadly embrace be the sole reason behind why he’s scared to visit the place they used to favor so dearly.

Dazai, the genius that he is, seems to read the toll on his mind. So his expression softened, “Hey.” He calls out to Oda, who blinks and then stares toward him in acknowledgement. “I told you, this is my apology for falling down the stairs, so I promise I won't do anything stupid or do things that will make you even more worried, alright?” He smiles, brown eyes softly gazing at his partner.

The older man studies Dazai before he finally tilts his head down in defeat just by seeing those big eyes, as stubborn as they were soft. “Fine.” He saids before adding, “But if I see any small signs that you’re getting worse, we'll go home immediately.”

Dazai's mouth forms a grin of agreement and continues to drag his boyfriend along the shore. Oda watched Dazai - his face beams in delight, so bright and cheerful, but is he feeling happiness in his heart right now? Is he truly happy? He doesn't want to ask, but he wants to believe it. And if it was reality, then Oda wishes for him to hold unto those emotions till the very end.

The shore is where they're free, like the birds that flew away from the depressing earth and bathed in the warm glow of the radiant sun. This feeling of warmth and freedom is what he missed years ago.

Until that tale of a boy whose blood spilled over the shore would never leave his mind, no matter how hard he tried. In the end, those tales would only lead him to break.

But he wants to throw it all over the edge of the horizon and let him forget the uneasiness in his chest. The echoing reverie to see Dazai smiling again caused determination to well up inside him. If he could treasure and let that smile last, where his skin radiates brighter than the sun, those chocolate eyes that twinkled like the liquid gems of the sea, then Oda would do his damndest to suppress the dark memories and his overall agitation that has been mocking him.

A quiet smile etched up in Oda's usual expressionless face as he cherished the moment.

When they're close to the ocean water, the brunet lets go of Oda's arm, scoops a handful of water and throws it towards his companion.

“H-hey!”

Dazai lets out a childish giggle from seeing Oda glare at him.  Rolling his eyes, he starts to take off his shoes and decides to play along with the younger’s antics. “So you want to play it that way, huh?” He lets his voice sound murky and dark, like an overly dramatic villain.

“Uh oh. Sensei’s getting mad.” Dazai teased as he moved away urgently from Oda’s impending wrath. When Oda finally placed his shoes and socks on the beach, along with Dazai’s necessities, away from the ocean’s reach, he followed his partner with a smirk on his face. “Are you testing me?”

“And what if I am?” Dazai grinned, “Bring me your best shot Odasaku!”

Then Oda rushed towards Dazai, pulling him close in a tight embrace as their laughs echoed across the neverending sea.

------

His throat hurt, desperate as he gasped for air…

It feels so hard to breathe, his lungs are burning, it all felt dry.

He hears someone screaming, shouting, calling, its voice clawing deep in the night, but he doesn't realize who and why.

But when scarlet red was stained in his palm that has slowly been seeping away towards the water, a sign of a promising fate that would end in tragedy, he knew why.

It was his own bruised throat and no one else but himself who has been screaming underneath the dark night.

And the whole village were able hear the mournful screams of Oda Sakunosuke as he desperately tried to save Dazai Osamu, the boy whose blood was spilled in the never ending sea.

------

Eventually, darkness came and the moon has replaced the sun, soft light reflecting off the sparkling water of the ocean. The breeze was chilly as it softly caressed their skin that was still damp with the ocean water. Their fingers are laced while their bare feet sink into the sand as they walked around the shore.

They quietly talked about small things, between hushed voices and whispers, their fingers playing with each other as their conversation leads them nowhere in particular. They let themselves be steered away from the cruel reminder of time’s existence, away from reality, just away from everything to forget the burden in their outside worlds. They revelled in the normalcy as young adults who just wanted to be together, and enjoy each other’s presence.

But now that it's dark, it feels like they're slowly breaking away from their own illusions.

So they talked and talked as if tomorrow would never come.

Until they finally have nothing to say to each other anymore, and only the rushing water singing a soft melody to accompany the evening air could be heard. Their arms are close as if they could feel each other's pulse, both are alive and well. Dazai watches the waves reaching towards them, occasionally kicking the salty liquid half-heartedly for amusement, while Oda's eyes travels at him. Both men are buried their own thoughts.

If Oda wants to guess what's going inside Dazai's mind, it would probably be about his fascination about suicide.

Drowning is the method he always favored, Oda know this, it pains him to say it but he has witnessed it many times before. Dazai told him that whenever he sees the beach, it feels like an open gate for him to escape his way to escape reality. The place where he looks upon to to let his thoughts be free within the wind and a place where he can enjoy himself.

A place where he would marry death.

Oda blinks for a moment as they halt their movements, none of them utter a single word but Oda stared at Dazai expectantly. The brunet eyes however, despite uninterested, traveled towards the cliff making Oda followed his direction of sight.

Oda would admit that there was something that always worried him about Dazai. Dazai’s mind was so sharp and intelligent, far more than was good for his sake, and it reminded him of a cliff towering over the sea, enticing humans to explore it but like a promising death and despair should they make one false move, even if it was to turn back and flee. Breaking the wild silence, Dazai finally mutters, "It's been eight years since we both visited here, no?" Oda was only able to hum in reply. "Eight years..." He repeats, as if he trying to properly taste of those words in his mouth. Before the older has the chance to interrupt, the other continues to speak, "Since then, everyone treated me differently. People started to be distant. They're always worried, they think that I could blame them. Though I'm not sorry, either. After all, even I wanted to be distant away from myself." 'Away from this world...' It was unspoken but nevertheless, Oda can hear it out loud in the heavy air. "Dazai-"

He interjects with a small voice, "But you..." He pauses, biting his lip until he was able to form the proper words , "You treated me the same. You always gave me normalcy, no matter what." “Despite this disturbing tendencies of mine, you still accept me as who I am.” But then, Dazai turned his head and faced him as he gave an unpleasant stare, almost starring past Oda. "If I wanted to be honest Odasaku, I want to read all the pages of your book to understand." Oda felt his fingers were gripped tightly as if they would slip in mere seconds away in his grasp the moment it loosens.

“What don't you understand?” He asked, rubbing his calloused thumb at Dazai's to provide comfort, gesturing him to tell his thoughts out and not to be afraid to speak the truth.

“I…” His voice trails off. Eyes watching their laced fingers for an encouragement.

“You still kept seeing it right? That moment where I almost died.” he breathed out.

Oda will always remember, he will never forget how terrified he is to see Dazai in the bed, heart weakly beating, skin colder and whiter than the snow of winter. How everyday it pains him to see that time, when his life was held by a single thread, ready to snap both Dazai's life and Oda's sanity.

Dazai's eyes looked deeply into his, searching for a sign if he should stop or not. Oda doesn't speak but he nod to beckon the younger to continue.

“Since then, you hated going here because you always remembered, and despite knowing that, I was still selfish and asked you to go with the beach with me. And you made an effort to grant this wish of mine and went along.” He breathed out as he finally asks.

“How do you do it?”

He was gazing so deep into Oda's eyes, that he flinched for a bit when he felt a warm hand stroke his cheek and brush the hair on his face. He really doesn't understand why; it was so foreign, so new no matter how many time he did that. Regardless, it was still comforting and serene.

Oda glances down before he looks back at him again and gave out a small smile. “We are all humans. All born with our own flaws and our selfishness. I don't want to sound like a hypocrite, but whatever selfishness and flaws you have, it still adds the fact that it made you the Dazai Osamu I fell in love with.” He admits.

Dazai pretended not to be flustered but the redness of his cheeks betrayed him until Oda casually added, “For me, one of my selfish desires is to see you smile and grant the promise I made.”

His eyes widen, mouth hanging, If the brunet's face was dusted with red before, then his face right now is almost at a tint of a tomato.

“Seeing you happy today is enough for me.” Oda continues, leaving Dazai breathless. It wasn’t the first not going to be the last, but...

Never once can a person leave the garrulous Dazai hanging wordless. He cannot think of any befitting words to shoot back at his lover. But he still felt obligated to continue the conversation. In the end, after what felt like an eternity, he was only able to say

“Thank you.”

The voice was low and faint but the wind managed to carry it to Oda’s ears.

“I had fun today.” Dazai murmured, after having the courage met those scarlet eyes once more with his, a sincere smile etched in his face as the dimples pops out of his cheek to signify how genuine his expression is. “And I'm glad you have as well.”

Oda can can feel the tip of his ears burning and was only able to pat Dazai in the head. “I'm glad. After all, anything we do together is fun.”

Dazai huffed out a breath and forged a knowing smirk, “Not as fun as yourself.” He reciprocated.

Oda was only able to raise a brow out of confusion, not knowing what he meant as the other could only laugh in delight. Dazai pinched Oda's nose while the latter grunted in protest.

After rubbing his nose, Oda noticed the full moon staring up at the sky. Dazai followed his gaze and mumbled, “Time really flies fast, huh. It feels like yesterday we were just kids playing here with Ango, and I just woke up a minute ago from being unconscious. But the reality is, many years have already passed since then.”

Oda can only hums in concordance. “It's getting late.” He finally reminds Dazai and himself about the unfortunate reality of the world they live in. “It's time to go home.” He sighs as he watched Dazai groaning in disapproval.

“I don't wannaaa.” He whined, eyes begging for consideration from Oda. He clings on the Oda’s arm and continues protesting. “Besides, where Oda is is my home.” He declares but after a few seconds of a starting match with his boyfriend, he finally, reluctantly, agrees.

“Come on. Let's go at your place and get you showered.” Oda then walks, escorting Dazai towards the exit where the main street is. The prodigy walks in tow, a mischievous smile on his face.  “Aww, then why not we shower together so you can warm me up?” His voice tingles with a certain promise.

Oda, however, chuckles at the sly suggestion, “That is nice, but I have something else in mind”

“Oh?” Dazai eyes glistened with curiosity. He leans toward Oda's shoulder and pressed his cheek against it affectionately, “This better be interesting since you're able to turn down such an offer. Tell me about it then.”

“Well.“ he paused, and looked around the beach so he could let the revelation of the surprise be dragged on longer. The brunet still saw through his own antics and kept nudging him to go on. Finally, Oda said, “While you're taking a shower, I would prepare a dish I just learned how to make a while ago.”

Dazai tilts his head for emphasis, “Oda will cook something for me! Does it have crab?”

“Crabmeat and Zucchini with Kofuki and homemade mochi.” He announced.

Excitement flashes on Dazai's face as he then took the lead, dragging Oda hurriedly behind him like a child, “Let's hurry then, I’m hungry - and snuggling can come after!”

Those words sowed warmth in Oda's chest.

To see Dazai's heart right now set in the right place, his mind not hidden away in the shadows where his demons kept whispering to him. To be able to witness his genuine smile and hold his now warm hand. It's enough to Oda. Even though he rarely, if ever, displays this sincerity to anyone else, if he kept holding his hand and let him know his presence will always remain there, to encourage him and support him, then maybe he would finally fully open up to them.

They might be back to reality now, where the complicated system of life and all its problems would never change. But there would be a time where they have nowhere else to go but wander aimlessly. Regardless of what life brought them, they will face it nonetheless and survive through the cruel seasons. They will hold each other close and take each other's hand and never let go.

After all, that's their oath towards each other.

--

‘Even if you will drown in your own abyss that will consume you alive… take my hand’

In a small little ward, a young boy vowed a pledge to a dear friend of his, who looks at him with hollow eyes.

‘But what if I don't take it? What if it's all too late?’ He asked, studying his redhead companion carefully. The redhead suddenly grabs his hands, and without hesitation he declared-

‘Then I'll catch you in my arms and won't let you go.’

…

It was a memory that they would forever hold.

For once, light was evident to the young patient’s eyes. For once, he didn't feel alone. For once, he had seen the faint ray of the light . For once, the boy who accepted that he would never be loved believed a promise.

A promise to hold him .

And Oda will stay true to his words, and he will never let go.

Not now...

Not ever.

.

.

.

Sadly though, their paths followed the unpredictable ebb and flow of the stormy waves of life.  

And the only certain things within life is the bittersweet endings and broken promises.

-THE END-

[akemilena]

Tsukino Demon Parade special drama CD (Summer) tracks 1-2

序

Preface

Translation index || Track 3 

Tsukino Shrine.

It’s a place where the Black and White Tenko, who possess an extreme power which surpasses even that of the gods, exist. It’s an ancient, ancient shrine.

During the day, it serves as a place for relaxation and refreshment for humans.

During the night, it serves as a place of gathering for many mysterious creatures.

Apparently, a strange party is held every night.

月野神社の鬼二人

The two onis from Tsukino Shrine

Shiki: Hm. *drinks* The sake is delicious today too. Ah… the moon is beautiful too. A relaxing shining full moon, huh… Not bad. Soushi, how about you join me for once?

Soushi: Nope, I’m, technically, your guard. It’d be bad if I got drunk, right? I’ll refrain, boss. No, Shuten douji-sama.

Shiki: Every time I hear words like “boss” or “sama” coming from your mouth, it doesn’t sit well with me… it’s disturbing.

Soushi: But it’s true, isn’t it?

Shiki: So what if it is? Call me by my name like always: Shiki. In the first place, Soushi, you’re not my guard or anything, and not my subordinate. You’re my cute little brother. No need to hold back.

Soushi: Not a little brother, but like a little brother. When I was just born from the darkness of the human world, you picked me up and looked after me until now. I do feel indebted to you. I’ll do my utmost to serve you well.

Shiki: Someone who really intends to serve well won’t expressly say it.

Soushi: *chuckles* Well, that’s true. As a matter of fact, this position is just an appeal to the outside, a kind of self-defense. If I talk too familiarly with the boss, there are some noisy people that will complain.

Shiki: Hm. It’s not like I mind, though.

Soushi: I’m sure there are people who honour hierarchy and discipline too.

Shiki: If you say that, then what about me? Even the self-important guys from the heavens are merrymaking at the knees of those who are called the administrators of justice, the Black and White Tenko. It wouldn’t be strange if we got a divine judgement right now.

Soushi: Ahhh… I agree with that too. Because here, the Tsukino Shrine, does work as a shrine, but… in short, is a sacred place where the Black and White Tenko sleep, right? It is because of their powers that gods, youkai and humans, all creatures of existence are in all cases equal, and naturally exist. It’s right in the midst of this mysterious world. Wouldn’t it be bad if you’re not a bit more reserved?

Shiki: Yes, it’s exactly that. You know it well, Soushi. In this place, hierarchy doesn’t exist. Worthless titles, differences in power, rules set by someone whose face you don’t even know… all of them don’t matter. That is to say?

Soushi: Ah… ahaha. So you’re taking it there. Okay, okay, I got it. Follow me no matter what happens, right? Can’t be helped. I will accompany you, Shuten douji-sama.

Shiki: Soushi.

Soushi: Correction, Shiki-san.

Shiki: Good.

Soushi: *drinks* This is really good.

Shiki: Right? To tell you the truth, it’s Rikka’s handmade.

Soushi: Aaah, that beautiful snow woman… no, snow man… that’s what I should call him? It’s his handmade? Then no wonder it’s so good. That person is super good at cooking, right?

Shiki: Apparently it’s an indispensable ability for the snow women tribe to seduce human men. The ability to do housework. Cleaning, laundry, cooking. You name it.

Soushi: That’s nice… won’t someone introduce me to Rikka-san…?

Shiki: Oh? Ohh… you’re at that age, Soushi?

Soushi: Well, I’m… unlike you, young and active.

Shiki: Wait. Wait, wait, wait. Don’t call me a withered old man.

Soushi: Eeeh, but you’re actually an old man, aren’t you? How old are you now?

Shiki: Hm? If I remember right… a young and energetic 1200 something years old, I think…

Soushi: You’re already out for not being able to say your age properly. Anyway, “young and energetic” sounds like a bit of a stretch.

Shiki: Why? Look at this supple and radiant skin.

Soushi: Your appearance was that of an eternal 26 year old, was it?

Shiki: Exactly. If I was a human, it would probably be the age where I’d be more productive, both mind and body-wise.

Soushi: And you’re saying it yourself?

Translation index || Track 3

TL notes:

HELLO it’s been 84 years but it’s finally here!!! Tsukino Demon Parade!!!

For those who don’t know, Tsukino Demon Parade (月野百鬼夜行, Tsukino Hyakki Yakou) is an official youkai AU (?) that was made for a collaboration with Animate shops, and includes some drama tracks broadcasted in Animate shops and buses, which then were collected and released in a drama CD along with a special track.

This is the summer edition which was released back in August, and includes the following characters: Shiki, Tsubasa, Shu, Eichi, Sora, Mori, Soushi, Kouki and Mamoru. The winter edition with Rikka, Dai, Ichiru, Issei, Ren, Nozomu, Ken and Ryouta will be released next January, so look forward to that too.

I’ll be refreshing the settings of the characters that appear in each track so from this track we have (click on the character names for illusts):

Shiki: Shuten-douji (酒呑童子), a mythical oni leader and a heavy drinker

Soushi: Oni (鬼), a kind of youkai in Japanese folklore, variously translated as demons, devils, ogres, or trolls.

And they don’t appear mentioned as characters per se but:

Haijme and Shun: Black and white Tenko (天狐), a high-ranking fox spirit and the leaders of the Tsukino shrine

I wasn’t sure if I should split tracks 1 and 2 until the very end because track 1 is wayyy too short so I decided to put them together, but if it’s confusing just tell me and I’ll split them!

Well then, enjoy this little AU with our beloved characters as youkai~

[echo-ism]

Seal of Approval . #echoismInktober, 18/31 . Reading through all those requests for diplomatic missions sure is hard, but one more press of the paw and... . So yesterday’s smaller drawing was a cinnabar inkpad 😊 More virtual🍪🍪🍪 to @woodsiemakesthings for guessing 😁✨ . Swipe for details, and the materials used for the entire series 😊 . My last Inktober piece during the month of October 😂 Last year I only managed to do 10 before I broke down miserably and gave it up 😅 I was lucky some lovely fellow artists on IG told me it was ok to let myself give up on the challenge and not feel like a failure. This year, I managed 18, and I lasted until the end of the month! 😊 If I had not been sick for a week, I would probably have managed at least 5 more (3 small ones and 2 large ones 😅). I still really want to draw the remaining ideas I had for Inktober, so I’ll just keep going in November, but there will also be other things ^_^ I’m thinking of making postcards/prints/a small zine out of the completed set, any votes for which ones to prioritize? 😊 . In November, I’m thinking of maybe joining the Folktale week challenge, even though I told myself to leave off challenges for a bit 😅 What could go wrong? 🤔 . In other news, I’ll be tabling at a small Christmas market in Antony this coming 7th & 8th of December (south of Paris)!!!!! This will be my first time doing this, I’m so scared and excited at once! Please come if you are around 🤗 I’ll have handcarved stamps, prints and cards, small original paintings, origami earrings and probably other things I’m still thinking about 😊 . #inktober18 #inktober #inktober2019 #ink #acrylicink #illustration #sketchbook #instaillustrator #traditionalart #Inktober #ilustracion #inkdrawing #artistoninstagram #instaartist #墨 #イラスト #illustrator #絵 #illust #illo #inkdrawing #inktober2k19 #trempetonoignon @assosansoignons #sansoignons #encre https://www.instagram.com/p/B4S3-iRqplx/?igshid=xdnyuxmkvull

[larissa-ixd]

Three Ideas

Three Ideas ===========

Idea 1: Cocktail Illustrations -----------------------

I believe people like buying nice artwork whether its for their personal use or advertising. I believe that cocktails ar becoming bigger in belfast from more elaborate menus to how do make it yourself books. I feel id be able to design a series of well illustrated funky designs that people will want to purchase.

Pros and Cons -------------

### Pros

+ I enjoy designing nice illustrations which attract people to them.

+ I would start with a couple of designs and if i enjoyed it i could create more.

+ I feel that doing research into this area would be fun.

### Cons

+ Im not the best illustrator but i would like to build on my skills.

+ There may not be a huge market for the illustations.

+ I think I’d need to launch with at least 5 illustations and to do this properly would take quite a lot of time.

How might it be built? ----------------------

I think I’d probably use Sketch create the illustations as that is the software i am most comfortable using and i would like to build my skills even more in it.

Who’s it for? -------------

I feel like the illustations could be targeted at anyone from individuals who want some quirky artwork for their house or business's who would like to advertise selling cocktails. .

## What’s the business model?

The illustations would be a series, one would come out at a time until the end of the series. The illustations would be purchasable once released and then when all of the series out there would be a bundle to buy all the illustations together for a cheaper price. I need to undertake further market research to establish a price point.

Idea 2: Travel Icon Set -----------------------

Designers are always looking for pre-designed icon sets as they speed up their job, they are cost-effective as a small amount of money saves a large amount of time.

Pros and Cons -------------

### Pros

+ I have experince in designing icons.

+ They would be simplistic so i would be able to make alot of them in a short time..

+ I could continue to make other icon sets if i enjoyed it.

### Cons

+ There are a large range of travel icons out already.

+ I may miss out on some icons which people want to see in the set.

+ Some icon sets are out their for free.

How might it be built? ----------------------

I would probably use sketch but i could also try to start to use illustartor and get used to another software.

Who’s it for? -------------

This product would be aimed at designers who would rather spend their time on more detailed parts of web design that the simple icons which could be purchased for a small price. It would be cost effective for the business to spend less time creating the icons and using little money instead to purchase the same content. Although there is maulitple of these sets already out there i believe there is still a market as different companies have different styles.

## What’s the business model?

I am unsure whether i would sell the icons as there are so many sets on the market for free. There is the option to just sell them but then i may get less interest than if they were for free. If they were for free i wouldnt earn any money but could  build my brand awareness which could lead to other deaigning opportunities.

Idea 3: Shopping UI Wireframe -----------------------

I believe there is a gap in the market for UI wireframes specifically for shopping apps. This would be similar to what UXKits have to offer but on a smaller scale and also focusing in on wireframes specifically for creating a shopping app. This idea would be quick and proffessional for designers.

Pros and Cons -------------

### Pros

+ I love shopping using apps.

+ I know what the customer needs for a good shopping experince online.

+ I spend time reading about UX design and I think I know how to simplify the layout for the user.

### Cons

+ This may take a large amount of time to create as i havent made one before.

+ I only have experince using sketch.

+ There are many more elaborate wireflows out there already.

How might it be built? ----------------------

I would use sketch as i am used to it but it would probably need to be offered to the customer in their perferred software such as XD and illustrator which i have no experince in using. I primarily use Sketch. If I adopted the above strategy, I’d need to consider learning XD and Illustrator – just enough – so I could create the example UX files in more than one format.

Who’s it for? -------------

I think there’s a growing body of designers who are self-taught and who didn’t go to art school. They’re looking for advice on how to build UIs that work well and are nicely designed. I think that market’s a reasonable size. I also believe that designers in that market would happily pay for good quality.

## What’s the business model?

I would sell my UI wireframe as a package for a fee. (I need to undertake further market research to establish a price point.) Some research – looking at UX Kits – shows me that I can sell the different formats individually and also as a bundle. For example, UX Kits’ kit is sold as follows:

+ Illustrator: $29 + OmniGraffle: $29 + Sketch: $29 + Bundle (3 Formats): $39

I suspect most people will pay the extra $10 to get the two extra formats, so this might lead to more profit.