#ren hana charms got me

[quinklequonkle]

Hnnghhhhh Dream time

I don't remember exactly how this one started but I know me and my mom were being chased by this crazy man with a knife.

We ran all over the house until we eventually came to a room but somehow he had gotten my mom and stabbed her a few times in the stomach and neck.

So now I'm really scared and I want to scream but I grab my mom and pull her inside the room, closing the door with my feet because for some reason IT DIDN'T HAVE A DOORKNOB!!!

Anyway, frustrating dream door aside, he pushed past it harshly. Now he had a butcher's knife and since I was on the ground, he raised it above his head with his bloodshot crazed eyes and I thought it was over for me. I really just waited for the pain

But it never came. Apparently certain times of the day he'd just be paralyzed for a couple of seconds. I got up as fast as I could, grabbed the knife, kicked the man over, and brought it down on the back of his head until it was clean off his body.

That man's brains were everywhere, it was a nauseating sight so I looked away from it and helped my mom up and somehow she was completely fine???

I helped her out of that place, a long with our cats and went back to the room to get anything we may have left.

That man's head was nowhere to be seen.

So now I'm having a pretty big oh shit moment and my heart starts to pound in my ears, then I back up before turning to run into the huuuuuge empty living room this place had and guess who was there with a wicked grin on his face?

THE MAN.

And he had his butcher's knife back so yay me! I had to constantly dodge his swinging, it didn't matter that it felt like he could teleport by how fast he moved, I needed to live.

Eventually I got enough distance from him to fumble with the outside door, successfully unlocking it and running outside.

But that didn't mean he was limited to that house, oh noooo, he followed after me with taunts. I banged on people's car doors for them to help me and the man goes: "you know I'm just going to come with you, right?" Which I reply with: "DON'T YOU HURT THESE PEOPLE!!! GET AWAY FROM ME" And took off again.

My feet were beating against the concrete to get away from him, breath hot and labored from all the intensity and yet he was still gaining on me. It was weird cause I also saw one of my cousins who passed away talking to someone and about to get in her car.

Even though I needed help, I didn't want to bother her and kept running up the block until I came to an empty highway. I could hear the man's voice like an echo in my ear: "No one would find you and I'll get away with it."

I had to keep it moving but at this rate, he'd catch up to me in no time. Thankfully though, there was a part of a fence where other people and joined them.

The man followed me of course but he couldn't do anything too drastic because now there would be many, MANY witnesses. So you wanna know what he did?

He picked up some random kid and took off. Like huh??? If his intention was to make me and a couple of other people follow, it definitely worked because that kid deserved to be safe. We eventually got to him which he eventually got to me somehow and now we were alone.

He didn't kill me right away which surprised me quite a bit, he said some really weird stuff that I can't remember... It gets very vague towards the end of the dream.

Now I'm in another one or maybe my dream just transformed but I'm inside a full classroom. It's so strange cause it's been years since I've been in one but apparently I was unintentionally funny cause the teacher would say things like: "do you really not want to get up?" In a: "oh you" fashion to which some students snickered.

In school I had super bad anxiety so it would make sense that I was reluctant about even walking where people could see me. I grumbled, got a pencil, and sat down.

This portion was so weirdly normal, it almost gave me whiplash. I looked at my desk to seeeee

My keys with my Ren Hana charms on it!

I don't know how it managed to slip into my dream, but it was welcome. I played with them and admired the smooth texture with a smile before waking up.

[larentsaloud]

gorya x emma

it’s been a while since I read Emma, but I distinctly remember her being a very confident matchmaker. in fact she got so giddy on her own success, that she has decided to make this one time pleasure of matching a good friend with a spouse; her hobby. 

while there are many differences between Gorya x Emma in class and wealth, they share the following character traits:

inability to read ANY signals 

lack of foresight in romance 

matching making others with delusional confidence 

fear of disrupting the status quo 

subservience to please others

for example:

Emma takes great pleasure matching Mr Elton and her friend Harriet, while Mr Elton has the hots for her.

When Emma finally thinks herself to be in love Mr Churchill, it turns out that her crush is taken. 

then, there is the second threat of Mr Knightley and her rival Jane Fairfax. Emma is insanely jealous and certain that she is about to lose LOHL to Jane.

At no point does Emma think that Jane and Frank Churchill could be a couple lol. she has the WORST intuition when it comes to love. 

so she is mad jealous of Jane, who is in fact Churchill’s fiancee, while forbidding her bestie to marry the guy who is the perfect match. 

meanwhile Mr Knightley couldn't care less for Jane or Harriet. 

but dummy Emma just carries on oblivious until the last minute. 

I see a lot of Gorya in that behaviour. that inability to spot who is right for whom, the way Gorya trusts Hana, until Hana betrays her and attempt to steal Thyme equals the mistake Emma makes when judging Jane. Emma considers Jane her frenemy if not nemesis. While Gorya is criminally not suspicious, Emma does the opposite with Jane but the result is the same. 

it’s error of judgement. They both trust the wrong people. Like Frank Churchill. Hana. Mr Elton. Talay...

the whole situation of Gorya pushing Thyme into Lita’s arms, comes from her lack of belief in herself, she underestimates herself. 

Gorya sends her first crush Ren into Mira’s arms, only for him to return broken hearted. 

Emma sends her best friend on a suicide mission by getting her to like Mr Elton who does not like her back, in fact he likes Emma. LOL.

on one hand, Emma overestimates her capabilities and charms, yet she doesn't see when people are interested in her, always supposing that Mr Elton fancies Harriet, or that Mr Knightley likes Jane. It’s that never being right thing they both share, never quite able to assess due to viewing the world through distortion that stems from innocence, and askew self- esteem. 

while Emma may come across outwardly overly confident in some aspects, she is also quite selfless and self-sacrificing as a character the way she looks after her father. and Gorya is like that with her family, with her love life. she doesn't see herself as good enough and willingly gives up in someone else’s favour because she sees herself as inferior. 

Gorya may seem confident, when she stands up to F4, her bravery causes a stir, but her actions are not based in bravery, they are result of frustration that her friend has been subject to injustice, therefore the saviour complex here is similar to Emma’s. they both share this ‘let me help you’ trait, while their own business is on fire! 

lot of Emma’s hilarious internal tantrums are based on her own inferiority complex, we see this in her interactions with Jane, how she is always dejected by her even before Jane speaks, the jealousy always there, disguised with acts of kindness. to me those misconceptions Emma holds are similar to Gorya’s although not at first glance but they are rooted from the same flaw- neither of them feels valid and seen or appreciated - they just exhibit their dissatisfaction in a different way. 

it's like both lack an objective view of who they are as people. this only comes from experience, it's called being assertive. you see it with the way Gorya resorts to aggression / violence or becomes passive when you'd expect her to gift i.e. for Thyme. 

with Emma, it's how oblivious she is to reality, wrapped in her own cocoon, until the bubble bursts and Mr Knightley has to open her eyes to reality and she finally has the light bulb moment. 

in Gorya, this is manifested the way she becomes the subordinate, to Mira and Lita and even Hana. she thrusts herself forward to save Hana, to save Mira’s and Ren’s non existing relationship and to save Lita’f father’s dream of becoming a politician. 

this martyrdom they both posses it on equal scale. 

Emma vows not to get married in fears of upsetting her father and causing him backlash, is hesitant to enter a relationship, and this subservience and putting other’s needs above hers is very much what Gorya does. 

so there. 

Emma X Gorya are quite alike as heroines. and those flaws make them multidimensional and loveable and relatable. 

Gorya needs to learn to believe that she IS GOOD ENOUGH, that it’s OK to put herself first. that she deserves ALL OF IT. to be happy. to be loved. 

while Emma needed to learn that she absolutely cannot trust her judgment LMAO and let go of her grand ideas and open up her eyes to see what has been in front of her the whole time.

I love them both! I'm sure they'd be besties. 

[papers4me]

Fruits Basket, SE03, Ep1

I’m here! The final season continues from where se02 oddly left, right in the middle of a conversation! XD.

-Tohru’s crushed heart (scarf): Excellent symbolism!

Tohru, burdened with trying to lift the curse of teen & adult sohmas, is now also troubled by trying to help Arisa’s romantic life is sad for akito! Too much for compassionate selfless tohru. Unable to help, protect & erase the pain, tohru crumbles. Freezes. Her white scarf (heart) flies away, gets crushed by cars & becomes dirty. But here comes a boy ( who thinks himself a monster) picks it up, cleans & returns it back. He thinks nothing of his deed. nothing heroic abt saving a scarf, really. But do we need to be heroes to save others? kyo saves tohru by being kyo. Not the zodiac cat & not the menacing monster. Her heart is saved by him, shown much care & returned back. Mind you, the heart (scarf) is not brand new after the delima. It’s not very clean after being crushed, some marks remain, but these are marks of growth!!! you walk away after hardships carrying minor scars of victory. This scene solidify kyo’s role in tohru’s life as an equal companion. Not a heroic prince charming. It is the little things he does that shows who he is. kyo isn’t abt big soft words, he doesn't say the best things. he is a man of action. His care, love & compassion comes so very easily & naturally to him thro actions. This is what yuki meant by saying he’s jealous of kyo. Yuki over thinks his steps & doubt everything before he acts. Kyo acts spontaneously then doubts himself later. He saves the scarf (heart) then tells her directly to buy another one if she feels it’s not clean. He failed to see how this trivial action meant the world to tohru. Tohru smiles lively cuz her heart is back to her.

Why is the scarf scene so important? (aka furuba’s best usage of symbolism yet!)

It symbolizes tohru’s toxic flaw that she must overcome! It represents tohru’s tormented heart over other ppl’s pain with severe neglect to her own problems & issues. Arisa’s love life shouldn’t be tohru’s delima, nor Akito’s complex or Kureno’s or the damned curse. Tohru toxically chooses to bear other burdens’ until they crush her.

Hana can’t come to save tohru from pain each time tohru indulges in it. Tohru must realize her own flaw & grow up beyond this toxic type of kindness. Feel & help others, but don’t use them to escape your pain & don’t indulge in their own struggles & neglect yourself. There is a reason hana’s knowing of tohru’s pain is thro “magical” waves, to symbolize that this can’t become a norm, not real. You can’t depend on magic to grow. I love that!

The white scarf bearing smudges of the tires even after kyo washed it shows that kyo’s love & care can’t magically heal all tohru’s pain. It parallels kyo’s words from se01, ep,24 when he said tohru didn’t heal all his pain, but he feels better simply cuz she stayed by his side. Tohru now is feeling better cuz kyo chose was there for her. Love doesn’t magically heal you, kids! But it sure puts you on the path! Also, this once again adds more depth to the (tohru/kyo) equal give & take dynamics.

This scene deconstruct the image of Tohru represented as an angelic mother throughout 2 seasons. Instead, It paints her as a real flawed girl with much need for growth. Exactly, like how we have learned by now that kyo isn’t a horrible monster nor a prince charming saving the day, but a flawed boy with much need for growth. However, these two push each other forward in a subtle way through daily situations! Excellent writing!!

-Kureno. (aka. who tohru should never become):

The harmful kindness: Kureno is someone who hurts himself & hurt many others (akito, arisa, shigure, & consequently the rest of the zodiacs) by giving the harmful types of kindness to akito, by completely erasing his own needs, desires & living for the sake of someone who would be far better without him. Kureno is who tohru might have become if she selflessly continues fighting solely for the sohma’s sake & trying to break the curse while ignoring her own life. She’ll become as miserable as kureno & the zodiacs will become dependable on her.

The destructive pity: Kureno pities this tormented child (akito) & chooses to stay with her until her tears dry. This pity is destructive cuz it is done while he wishes to be miles away with Arisa & it encourages akito to stay as she is. Look, a child whose mom hates her deserves pity. But an adult woman needs to learn to build relationships based on mutual affection & respect. This talk of pity reminds me of kyo & kagura. Kagura pitied the cat zodiac. The relationship was doomed cuz kyo refuses pity. It doesn’t matter if her pity turned into love later. Kyo doesn’t want that from her or anyone. There is NO equality there. We know tohru came to love kyo for all the times he was there for her & all the times he pushed her to improve, to complain, to want things! she said so in se01, ep, 24. But we also know that young baby tohru pitied the cat when her mom told her the zodiacs story. what if kyo thinks tohru’s affection is pity???? that’s a big NO for him & for every person. I really want tohru to be as far from any kurno’s traits as possible!!!

-Akito, the pitiful woman:

Akito was born a girl, forced to be raised as a boy by her mother’s demands? where is the father?? she was hated by her mother. why? she also hates her mom. (hate your child & they’ll hated you). So, akito is doomed by her mom. Akito tries to prove that she’s loved by the zodiac “she specified the male zodiacs” interesting! we saw how she hates both Isuzu & kisa & doesn’t give a damn abt kagura. This woman, forced to pose as a man, actually desires to be treated as a woman. As for the other zodiacs:

No worries abt hatori leaving cuz he’s 24/7 attending to her health.

Ayame makes tea exclusively for her & hatori.

she thinks Ritsu is too timid to attempt leaving.

Hiro’s a baby, momiji is hated cuz she can’t break him.

Kyo is destined to be locked. but Why she cares abt the cat anyway?? She publicly hates him & feels disgusted by him.

She used to control yuki but can’t anymore.

she uses intimacy to bound those who “can” leave her the most: kurno! & shigure? she sleeps next to shigure in the valentine ep. hatori remarked: don’t let akito catch cold. We saw the sexually charged rage in se02, ep10. So, she isn’t faithful to kureno. They don’t have a relationship. She doesn’t even have a relationship with shigure, either. to her, sex is a tool to tie them both to her?

It is ironic that the person who said she despises woman & accuses Isuzu of seducing hatori is herself seducing others. Except, tragically, kureno isn’t with her for herself, but cuz he pities her. We saw her slapping & embracing him. Next scene; her bare shoulders & his unbuttoned shirt clearly implies they got intimate which is what akito does to feel secure in kureno not leaving her. Kureno is not even interested in her despite submitting to her advances, needs & orders. He does it out of pity. Truly the most tragic form of physical affection: sex for pity. wow... how tragically pitiful is the abusive ruler of the zodiacs who looms over them & demands respect & eternal bonds. How can she find someone who’ll love her for herself, if she doesn’t learn to show good sides of her? Yuki wasn’t loved for who he is in school, but for being the “prince”, he showed his real character & got himself true friends & soon a lover!!!  Kyo, was feared & pitied for turning into a “monster”, but once he showed his kind & harmless self, he got himself true friends & a girl who loves him for his actual personality! Who will love akito for who she is if she only shows a spoiled child, horrible family head or a pitiful woman? What does shigure love in her? he doesn’t seem to pity her nor pamper her much, does he?  perhaps we’ll know more abt the real akito later.

Side notes:

Akito’s mom reminded me of kyo’s dad. Abused children, who are hated by their parents, don’t let go of the hurt easily. they’ll always try to either get their approval, show them they were worthy of their love, or they’re NOTHING like their parents think they are. eg: Kyo’s biological father’s hate has destroyed kyo. Kyo have kazuma & tohru & he still wonder why they love him. It took kyo 17 years to actually promise to call kazuma "dad” one day in se01 finale. You need time to heal the wounds inflected by the ones who should love you the most. Being loved by others doesn’t magically heal you! You need to take few steps forward.

Isuzu is Ren’s clone! finally understanding why the severe hate from akito towards Isuzu. I’ll wait for more Ren/Akito content before analyzing their relationship.

Ren is so sexy. ngl, the scene of the zodiacs touching her belly after she just *conceived* akito is so creepy~ ew! 

Hana picked up tohru first before kyo, cuz this show isn’t exclusive for romantic love as much as it isn’t exclusive for friendship. There is balance. 

Tohru needs her own future, so does Arisa & hana! Learn to accept the limit of what you can do as a friend, tohru.. forever loving furuba for steering away from “friends stay together forever~yay” anime trope! Furuba is abt independent & individual adult life! building your own future! Epic writing!

Forever fascinated by how much the little small ordinary daily life things has really built kyo-tohru love! It feels so real & very uniquely built! Excellent writing!

Arisa is stuck with an adult man trapping himself in the most unnecessary love triangle. Kureno’s cage is self made, no curse. A very sheltered boy/man not living in the real world. Only two options for kureno if he continues this path: he’ll hurt akito, or akito will hurt him. We know the answer from the trailer, don’t we?

Arisa letting go of kuron is growth! Let go & live, girl!

There is a subtle theme of learning to let go in furuba~

Yuki is the biggest kyoru shipper!

Tohru intentionally hitting kyo with scarf’s pon-pon is my fave side of her! intentional flirting shows change from her little girl’s good girl attitude to her own type of a feisty woman! after all, she’s nearly 18!

The way the camera moved when kyo spotted the scarf was so good!

The director is obsessed with flying!! did he work on attack on titans? cuz the Ren-akito flying fight reminded me of Titan Eren strangling Titan Annie in AOT se01 finale! but chibi version! XD. I’m sorry for akito’s pain, but I was distracted by laughing! XD

look, if you plan to dramatize a situation, know your budget & your skills. Obviously, the director knew the scene is badly done, hence, the wide far away, dim lit shot to hide as much as it can. Couldn’t he do without it? let akito strangle her to the ground without flying!

oh well~these over-the-top shots are now a furuba trade mark~ just praying they stick with one weird shot per season.

[chyrstis]

Hanarky for the ship meme? 👀💕

@geronimo-11 @amistrio @ma-sulevin @risenlucifer @himbopike

Let me just say that to get one ask is awesome. To get five asking for the same pair especially when it’s these two? <3 You’re all fantastic for asking, and I’m all too glad to dive into this for them.

Hana Vao / Sharky Boshaw

--

General:

Rate the Ship -  

Awful | Ew | No pics pls | I’m not comfortable | Alright | I like it! | Got Pics? | Let’s do it! | Why is this not getting more attention?! | The OTP to rule all other OTPs

How long will they last? - These two are full-on set on driving into that sunset together, and this last until they’re old and gray.

How quickly did/will they fall in love? - It’s pretty fast for both. Sharky was a little love-struck if not during their initial intro, then shortly after, wondering who the hell this woman was, yelling Die Hard quotes while handing him molotovs, and why he didn’t have a chance to meet her sooner. Hana on the other hand was immediately charmed by his brand of absurdity, and after a week or two on the road, found she didn’t want to go a day without it. It didn’t take much longer for feelings to set in after that.

How was their first kiss? - Oh, it was a doozy. Entirely on accident, especially since she just wanted to thank him for always being sweet to her (and for finding coffee, b/c going without it’s been rough), and wanted to kiss his cheek. No big deal. She lays one right on his mouth instead, and the residual shock and the holy shit of it all makes her immediately exit stage left. The kiss they share later on down the line’s one she’s much more content with, b/c there’s no grey area, no doubting it at all, and the minute he returns it she’s almost overwhelmed by it. Sharky’s easily in the same boat, b/c this isn’t wishful thinking, or him hoping for something that isn’t there. It’s her wanting him, and once he can shut his mouth for longer than a few seconds at a time they get to making up for all the times they should’ve kissed before.

Wedding:

Who proposed? - Sharky! It’s years down the line, but he finds a way to make a ring for her, and after checking to see if it fits, immediately proposes to her on the spot.

Who is the best man/men? - There’s no official ceremony, but Sharky would’ve wanted Hurk there for it, if possible.

Who is the braid’s maid(s)? - Hana would’ve definitely asked Grace.

Who did the most planning? - Sharky! Hana had no damn clue what he had in mind, or was planning, but he actually managed to get a little misty-eyed while watching a proposal scene from one of her movie picks, so...

Who stressed the most? - Sharky. Though the poor guy didn’t get hit with most of it until he’d slipped the ring onto her finger.

How fancy was the ceremony? -

Back of a pickup truck | 2 | 3 | 4 | Normal Church Wedding | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Kate and William wish they were this big.

Who was specifically not invited to the wedding? - N/A (Hurk Sr. gets an honorary mention here, though)

Sex:

Who is on top? - Both like the other on top so they’ll definitely switch, but Hana’s probably there the most often.

Who is the one to instigate things? - They’re both equally guilty of this with varying degrees of subtlety, and Hana’s absolutely burst out laughing at a few of Sharky’s attempts, but always gets right to kissing him soon after.

How healthy is their sex life? -

Barely touch themselves let alone each other | 2 | 3 | 4 | Once a couple weeks, nothing overboard | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They are humping each other on the couch right now - (hey, they’re making up for lost time here)

How kinky are they? -

Straight missionary with the lights off | 2 | 3 | 4 | Might try some butt stuff and toys | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Don’t go into the sex dungeon without a horse’s head

How long do they normally last? - A good couple of rounds if they’re in a safe place, and time’s no object.

Do they make sure each person gets an equal amount of orgasms? - They certainly try (though she grouses at Sharky whenever he gets a lead on her, leaving him wearing the worst shit-eating grin)

How rough are they in bed? -

Softer than a butterfly on the back of a bunny | 2 | 3 | 4 | The bed’s shaking and squeaking every time | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Their dirty talk is so vulgar it’d make Dwayne Johnson blush. Also, the wall’s so weak it could collapse the next time they do it.

How much cuddling/snuggling do they do? -

No touching after sex | 2 | 3 | 4 | A little spooning at night, or on the couch, but not in public | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They snuggle and kiss more often than a teen couple on their fifth date to a pillow factory.

Children:

How many children will they have naturally? - Two! Gabrielle, and I’m still trying to zero in on a name for their little boy. Rocky? Jack? Kurt?

How many children will they adopt? - N/A

Who gets stuck with the most diapers? - These two try to split this duty right down the middle.

Who is the stricter parent? - Hana, which is a feat. XD

Who stops the kid(s) from doing dangerous stunts after school? - Also, Hana, b/c no matter what she and Sharky got up to before this, it’s really for the best that neither of the kids try to emulate that.

Who remembers to pack the lunch(es)? - It’s a team effort, and any no-cult AU would totally involve Sharky handing bags of chips and jerky to each kid with Hana on his heels ready with a sandwich or two.

Who is the more loved parent? - They’re both pretty equal, but Gabby loves working with Sharky in the Pyrotechnics lab big-time, while Kiddo #2 loves racing around with Hana (and is a movie trivia buff in the making)

Who is more likely to attend the PTA meetings? N/A - Hana would be dragged kicking and screaming to them and hate it.

Who cried the most at graduation? - N/A due to the Collapse, but Sharky might win this one. He certainly sheds a happy tear or two whenever the kids hand him gifts or show him cool things they’ve made, and any award they’d earn? Whoops, he’d be a goner.

Who is more likely to bail the child(ren) out of trouble with the law? - Hana’s up to bat first going through legal avenues, but if she can’t manage to wing it, Sharky’s ready to step up to the plate.

Cooking:

Who does the most cooking? - They both would be take-out junkies, but Hana can make most of the basics.

Who is the most picky in their food choice? - Neither, really. She’d tease Sharky about deviating any from his jerky-heavy diet, though.

Who does the grocery shopping? - Probably Hana, but she’d drag him along for it too (and they’d race carts in the parking lot)

How often do they bake desserts? - Not frequently, but Hana would every once in a blue moon attempt a cake or brownies, and post-Collapse Sharky tries really hard to find a way to make that happen.

Are they more of a meat lover or a salad eater? - Meat, meat, meat.

Who is more likely to surprise the other(s) with an anniversary dinner? - Sharky, and although he’s not much of a cook, he’ll save her extra desserts for their anniversary week. Once they’re out he tries to go a little fancier, though, and doesn’t burn things to a crisp 60-70% of the time?

Who is more likely to suggest going out? - Sharky.

Who is more likely to burn the house down accidentally while cooking? - Sharky.

Chores:

Who cleans the room? - They’re both messy, so they try to take turns with chores.

Who is really against chores? - Sharky. He’s not thrilled with any of it, but puts up with it since

Who cleans up after the pets? - They don’t start off with pets, but Hana can’t help but feed a stray cat or two once they get to the surface, and gladly takes care of any messes they make.

Who is more likely to sweep everything under the rug? - Sharky, the sneak.

Who stresses the most when guests are coming over? - Both would usually be okay, but Hana does stress a bit more about cleaning when a certain someone John tends to visit.

Who found a dollar between the couch cushions while cleaning? - Sharky would probably find the dollar while trying to sweep things under it, to be honest. XD

Misc:

Who takes the longer showers/baths? - Hana. It’s where she can unwind, and it only gets longer if she has company (which she usually hopes for and Sharky 100% delivers on)

Who takes the dog out for a walk? - If moments with Boomer count, Hana would totally go jogging with him, and did a few times while heading out on patrol.

How often do they decorate the room/house for the holidays? - Hana’s a Halloween junkie, and loves throwing parties, so that's a must even when they don't have many actual decorations to hang. Sharky won't hesitate to help her find some prime picks, though, and can whip up some great ones in a jiffy.

What are their goals for the relationship? - Have the other’s back no matter what, and make the other the happiest they’ll ever be.

Who is most likely to sleep till noon? - Sharky.

Who plays the most pranks? - Sharky.

[kanasmusings]

[Translation] SOARA - Lapis Blue Short Story

Here’s the translations for Lapis Blue’s short story~! It’s a cute one that feels so Nozomu and Sora-ish~! Since Lapis Blue is their Tori-hen for Kachoufuugetsu, the short story, of course, is focused on the theme of “birds”. 

After this is the final one, “Ai no Hana” short story and then cast interviews for Ouka and Sho’s song followed by the translations of Sho and Ouka’s CD as well as infinit0′s CD translations~!  Please look forward to them, too ^^ 

※ Please don’t re-post and re-translate this short story under any circumstances. If you want to re-translate them into another language, I can provide the transcribed kanji of the short story.

Under the cut, enjoy~! 

[A Feather for Good-luck]

  “Look, look~!”

With a self-created sound effect, Nozomu took out a keyholder with a vividly coloured feather on it. The feather itself was maybe about 12.3 cm in length.

           On its own, it was a very simple keyholder, the usual one where it hangs off of a silver chain. But, with the feather attached to it, it was truly eye-catching.

           The feather was a very dark purple, almost akin to being black but, the gradation changes as it reaches the tip. The tip was a bright cobalt blue. Beautiful though it may be, it did seem a bit too artificial.

“… Well, that’s a pretty flashy feather, huh.” Soshi said.

“True,” Morihito chimed in.

           Soshi and Morihito gave their honest impressions and Ren, who was standing beside them, nodded his head in agreement.

           Sora, brimming with curiosity, immediately held his hand out and said, “Give me, give me~”

“Where’d you get it?” Sora asked.

           Nozomu puffed his chest out as if to say, “I’m so glad you asked that!”

“I got it from an uncle of mine. It’s a souvenir from his overseas trip~ It’s a feather from a bird local to the country and it seems like it’s supposed to be a good luck charm!” Nozomu explained.

“I see.” Sora handed the keyholder to Morihito standing beside him. After Morihito took a good look at it, he handed it to Ren.

“It is interesting, huh?” Ren said. “It’s really pretty… Here, Sou-nii, look,” Ren continued.

“Yup. Nozomu, what kind of bird did this come from?” Soshi asked.

“Dunno! My uncle really only bought it after hearing the tour guide explain so, the details are a complete mystery to me!” Nozomu said.

“Ah, I can definitely feel the Nanase Family DNA there,” Soshi said.

           Mori laughed.             Nozomu himself laughed, too.

“But, y’know? I don’t know how to explain it but, thinking of what kind of bird it came from while holding it is kinda fun, right?” Nozomu began.

“Ah, yeah! I totally feel you~!” Sora agreed so strongly with Nozomu that the members were surely thinking of the same thing.

(These two… They’re really similar, huh?)

Like how they’re both full of curiosity and aren’t scared to try anything. Or how excitable they are.

Either way, they’re both straightforward and like pulling along the people who are around them.

“To me, Sora-senpai and Nozomu are both kind of like good-luck charms,” Ren whispered to Morihito and Soshi.

“Yeah, I can totally understand why,” Soshi agreed.

“Yup, me, too,” Mori smiled.

           They were sure that there are really birds out there that can be a symbol of great luck.

※ Please don’t re-post and re-translate this short story under any circumstances. If you want to re-translate them into another language, I can provide the transcribed kanji of the short story.

※ If you enjoyed this, please consider buying me a coffee here. It’ll really help me out a lot.(o^▽^o) Thank you!!

[lefemmerougewriter]

Revenge of Pink Steven and the Bento Brawl

This was just a fun story I came up with on the spot. I thought it would be fun to bring together characters from Ben-To and Steven Universe. I didn't spend as much time on this as most of my stories, so this was just a spur of the moment thing. I may or may not write another one. Anyway, its relevant to what Steven is going through, so far, in Steven Universe Future. Enjoy! I used the pages on Connie and Steven on the Steven Universe fandom for some details. I rated this as mature because of the violence involved. If this doesn't get that many views, that's fine too, I just wanted to have fun, that's all.

Romantic pairings: Connie / Steven

Words: 1.3k

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21795643?view_adult=true

Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/1254857964-revenge-of-pink-steven-and-the-bento-brawl

Characters: Steven Universe, Connie Maheswaran, Lion, Yo Sato, Shaga Ayame, Yarizui Sen, Oshiroi Hana, Shiraume Ume, Nikaidou Ren, Sawagi Kyo

Sato gasped for air and woke up in a bed. He asked himself what had happened the night before. Looking over, he could see Yarizui (the Ice Witch) and Shaga (the Beauty by the Lake), one on each side of the bed. His perverted thoughts about these two women were interrupted by Yarizui.

"Sato, are you ok? You took a pretty bad beating in tonight's bento brawl. We're just glad you are recovering."

"Wait...I don't remember anything."

Shaga laughed heartily. She pulled out her phone and showed him a picture from the brawl, taken by Oshiroi.

"Maybe now you'll remember...Sato."

Staring at the screen, memories flooded back to him. He had gone to the local supermarket like always, but two new people had showed up. One had curly dark brown hair and the other had dark brown puffy hair, with bangs and hair clips. The one with curly hair wore a black shirt with a yellow star on it, a pink jacket, and blue pants, while the one with puffy hair had on a white blouse and blue shorts. He could even recall the conversation between them before the brawl.

"Connie, would you like to get anything for dinner tonight? It's our last night in Tokyo.

"Well...I heard bento is good...I'd like to try it before going back to Beach City."

Steven examined a flier in the store, announcing to her "and its half-price!"

As they both walked toward the back of the store, Steven saw people licking their chops, like wolves ready to pounce. He worryingly turned to Connie.

"I'm not so sure about this. I don't want to get in a scuffle."

"Steven...maybe you can get them to stop...you have the Steven Universe charm after all."

She smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "Go get 'em!"

As Steven walked toward the half-price bento, the "God of Discounts" as the "wolves" called it, left. As everyone readied to charge in, Steven tried to stop them.

"You don't have to battle each other...we can share the bento together."

Ren chuckled. He got right in Steven's face.

"You twerp...you think you can stop us...we're wolves and we're hungry...If you don't get out of our way, then we'll make you listen."

Not moving an inch and standing his ground, Ren then resorted to a threat.

"We'll just have to take care of your girlfriend...then...she'll enjoy a nice, good nap."

"Don't you dare touch...my Connie! I don't want to fight you...but I have no choice!"

Steven's skin turned pink and he exerted a pink aura, as he had become enraged. Everyone else stood by, waiting to see the results of the battle.

"Are you too...scared to face me?" Pink Steven taunted.

"No...I'm not...you...dog!"

Ren charged in with all his might, but he was no match for Pink Steven. Winding up his fist like a clock, he punched Ren, sending him sliding down the aisle and smashing through the store's front glass window with full force.

"Anyone else want to try me?"

Sato, the Ice Witch, and the Beauty by the Lake stood firm. The twin sisters, Kyo Sawagi, which formed Orthrus, stepped forward.

"Don't mess with us...we'll crush you...you are no match!"

"Bring it..."

Using shopping baskets as weapons, they dashed toward Pink Steven with fury. But, he blocked their blows and threw them across the store, so far that they hit the walls. The other wolves had run away in fear of what would happen to them. Only Sato, the Ice Witch, and Beauty by the Lake remained. They whispered, "let's get him together." Racing in his direction, the plan was to overwhelm him by working together. This made Pink Steven's powers grow stronger, as he let out a scream with burst all the glass bottles and windows of the store, throwing them back, and onto the street, bloodied.

No one remained and the store was a mess. The customers, and even cashiers, had fled for their lives, leaving the store deserted. Steven reverted back into his original form and saw the destruction around him. He shuttered in horror.

"Did...I...do...this?"

Connie ran up to him, crying profusely.

"Steven...are you all right?...you really scared me back there."

"Connie...I'm fine...but these people aren't...to think I caused all this destruction makes me sick to the stomach. Let's go before I end up doing any more damage."

As Steven and Connie left the store, Connie shamefully holding a bento box, an eager Oshiroi ran up to them with a big grin.

"That...was...so...amazing! I could only see from the outside of the store...tell me everything!"

"Ok...I'm Steven and this is my girlfriend Connie...are you writing a book or something?"

"Yeah, I'm a novelist...I write online stories about my friend Sato...and his brawls to get bento boxes."

"Oh...I see. We are in a bit of a hurry, but I wouldn't mind chatting later. Here's my email address and phone number."

"Thanks...Steven! Hope to hear from you soon!"

She skipped away, happily, only to see Yarizui, Shaga, and Sato on the ground, bloodied. She called an ambulance, which brought them to the hospital...or so she thought.

Sato sighed. He had remembered the incident as clearly as he could, while Oshiroi had told him the rest.

Suddenly, the walls around the room, likely sheets or projections, began to fall, Sato stared in disbelief.

Steven grinned and announced something that surprised him.

"Glad you are awake...welcome to the Steven Universe Healing Hospital. I'm Doctor Steven...how may I help you today?"

"YOU! Why are you here? Don't you dare hurt me again."

"Sato...its fine...just accept it."

"Would you like me to administer the treatment?"

"I guess so..."

Steven licked his hand, covering it with spit. Sato averted his eyes.

"I'm sorry...but this is never not weird."

Touching his hand to Sato's head, the wounds healed, as did some other injuries on his body.

"We're done! You probably still should rest for a bit."

Sato would take none of that advice. He threw off the bed sheet in a fury.

"Why did you attack us in the supermarket?...what in the world is going on!"

Steven grumbled.

"I'm truly sorry about that...this pink Steven mode came out...and I'm trying to control it...I didn't really know what happened...it's a bit out of control."

Sato shook Steven's hand.

"Next time you want to have a brawl over bento, let me know. I'll be ready."

"And I'll make sure not to turn into that pink form again. Let me transport you back to Tokyo, it's the least I can do. Remember to hang on."

"Lion, let's go!"

Sato, Yarizui, and Shaga yelled as they were warped back to Tokyo.

"Thanks so much, Steven," Sato said, and bowed.

Yarizui had a similar message.

"Steven, feel free to visit anytime...just don't beat us up like that again...we can't take it more than once...we'll be ready next time to face you...on the battlefield!"

Steven waved goodbye, and departed, riding Lion, disappearing with a flash of light.

Sato turned to Yarizui and Shaga.

"What...in...the...world...was...that? I can't comprehend what happened...how can someone be that nice after beating us up that badly."

"There are nice people in the world, Sato...ones that don't have the title of Pervert."

"Cut it out...I'm not a pervert!"

"Oh, really?...then why are you looking at my breasts right now?"

"I...."

"You'll always be a pervert in my book."

"The wolves stand to fight another day!"

As they walked off into the distance, Oshiroi joined them, wanting to know all about the fracas and how they got healed. Whether Steven or his girlfriend Connie ever returned was their guess...but they'd be ready the next time...no matter what.

[vocaotome]

Hi everyone! 3 more days until I move and I still have too much stuff to fit in suitcases (cursed weight limits) so adding even more items that I didn't originally plan to sell because they were from friends ;v;

See more details about the items under the cut! (Fandoms are Alice series and Dramatical Murder) Shipping is not included in price, I can use USPS priority mail(~$7 for 1-6 books), media mail (cheap, weight dependent, approx. below $5 for 1-5 books), or first class mail ($1-$3, best for when you only buy a couple of charms and prefer cheapness over insurance) depending on what you prefer! If you are out of US, priority mail and first class mail work outside US but are pricier than US prices on varying levels depending on the country (still cheaper than Fedex/DHL).

Anyone interested please message me here or mail me at aurora6290@gmail.com. I accept payment in paypal.

Reblogs would be highly appreciated! You can also support me by commissioning translations or sending me coffees! Also, if you buy stuff before I move out (Saturday) and ask for priority flat rate USPS shipping, I'll throw in a bunch of cosmetics as freebies that I got as gifts during christmas and really don't need. I still might do it if you ask for weight dependent shipping but in that case adding freebies would increase your package weight (and consequently shipping cost) and I might have to refrain.

(right click on the pictures to open in HQ)

Manga (English)

Alice in the Country of Joker -Nightmare Trilogy- vol 1~3 ($8 each volume, Job art with Nightmare/Alice), Alice in the Country of Clover -The Lizard Aide- ($8 -SOLD, Job art with complete one volume Gray/Alice story)

Alice series and dramatical murder Doujinshis (in Japanese)

-Row 1: Kuro Yuri no Hana (sfw, $15 -SOLD), Afureru Mizu (sfw, $15), Soba ni ite ne (nsfw R18, $16 -SOLD), Karenai futari (nsfw R15, $15)   -All Gray/Alice

-Row 2: at random, east castle collection comprising of 4 Blood/Alice, Ace/Alice, Julius/Alice doujinshis (sfw, $17 -SOLD), GIRLS STYLE , Alice series and Arabians lost anthology with short stories of many pairings (sfw, $16 -SOLD), Wachacha alphabet book, 9 pages with each DMMD character as a letter (sfw, $5)

-Row 3: 500 Man-bai baby!, Sandwich (nsfw, R18, $16), Sein: β (nsfw, R18, $17), Renao Anthology ($20, nsfw), Resonating blue, Renao anthology ($16, nsfw) -All Ren/Aoba

Badges

Blood food badge ($5), Wonderland themed DMMD badges (Aoba, Koujaku, Noiz , Mink, Clear, Ren, Sei - $4 each, Noiz/Clear/Sei sold)

Dramatical Murder straps and doujinshis (in English)

I loathe to let go of these because these are great and made by people I know, but I don't want to pay for overweight luggage so they need to go ;v; But I won't be making any profit off these, all items are original artist price so it'd be like you just missed out the preorders and bought the items through me:

-5 Dancing series djs by magemg ($5 each)

-Hidden end DMMD nude calendar ($18), Platinum fashion fanbook ($20), Drama Quest complete pack containing dj, 6 prints and 6 charms: Aoba+Koujaku+Noiz+Ren charms sold so remaining charms are $6 each, book is $10 and prints are $1 each) by paperbag

[ask-the-phan-site]

Phan Cam: Skull’s Debut

>D-4 Productions in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. KUROFUNE, including its newest part-time member had just finished practice for the day and would later perform that night.

Good work today, everyone.

Yes. Including you. We knew it was no mistake having you join us.

Thanks. But mostly have Harry to thank for this.

Yuto: True. But it was you who won our interest. Harry was just the guy who introduced you to us.

Ryuji: Fair enough. I’m just so happy to be here...

And still a little worried you know that me and my friends are the Phantom Thieves.

Yuto: You didn’t exactly hide it. You were practically wearing your Phantom Thief outfits while dancing.

Ryuji: Futaba told online that we were just cosplayin’. But I guess it didn’t take long for you guys to figure it out.

Keigo: Well, the places you were dancing were a little to elaborate to be done on a set.

True dat!

>Then suddenly, the door of the practice room opened.

Oh, sorry! We thought you were done.

Keigo: We are. Sorry for the wait.

That’s okay. That just shows how dedicated you are.

Oh, you must be Ryuji Sakamoto.

Ryuji: I am. So glad to be meetin’ you, DearDream.

>He shook their hands.

We saw your performance on New Years Eve. Including that beat boxing number you did. That was actually great.

Ryuji: You really liked it?

Well, it’s not something you find in the idol world very often. You’re probably one of the first to use beat boxing.

Ryuji: That’s something, I guess.

Kanade: Either way, you were great. I guess we better be ready for what you guys have in store tonight.

Ryuji: Well, I have been working on a new song, but I doubt it will be as great as what you guys have planned.

Keigo: Don’t sell your self short just yet. We haven’t even showed it yet.

???: But we’ve heard it’s a real heart taker.

Hey, you made it.

Like we told you, we’d be back.

We wouldn’t miss your debut for the world.

I wouldn’t miss it either. It will be a grand display tonight.

Itsuki: You must be Ryuji san’s friends. And Akechi, too. I’m sure it will be.

>We introduced ourselves.

Ryuji: Are the girls here, too?

No. They’re getting ready for the concert. We were just in the neighborhood and thought we’d just drop in and wish you luck like any good classmate would.

Really? I thought you wanted to know what it’s like to be in an idol agency building.

That’s enough out of you.

>We couldn’t help but laugh.

Keigo: By the way, congratulations to you, Akechi kun. You, Makoto chan, and Haru chan.

Akechi: Thank you very much.

Junya: Congratulations on what?

Akechi: Me and two of our friends took our college entrance exams a couple of weeks ago. (In reality, it was in January, but one of the admins writing this didn’t know that.) We just got our results... We got in.

Kanade: That’s great. Have you decided which college you’re going to?

Akechi: We’re all going to Tokyo University. Me and Makoto san are going into Law. Of course, I wouldn’t mind giving Science a try. And Haru san is going into Agriculture and Economics.

Yuto: That’s good. Those look like the best subjects for you three.

Mishima: I bet you four would be great at Todai (Tokyo University).

Yuto: Four?

Mishima: I mean, you are an idol. You must go to such a prestigious learning facility like that.

Yuto: You wish. I go to a community college.

Oh. I’m sorry.

Chizuru: Just be more careful about everything you find on the Internet.

Akechi: That reminds me. Next week, I’ll be moving out of the institution.

Ren: You mean that loft?

Akechi: Well, it’s more of a small apartment, but it’s closer to campus, so it’s no problem.

Keigo: What’s the apartment like?

Akechi: Yusuke was the one who told me about it.

Yusuke: I was just doing some people watching when I first spotted it. I was captured by its beauty. The vine covered building made with Japanese and European styles. It was almost...

It is almost otherworldly.

Chizuru: (interested) I see. I bet the people living there must be like that.

Akechi: I wouldn’t know. I haven’t met them yet and I haven’s even gone inside yet. But from what I’ve heard...

They’re quite the spirited bunch.

Ren: You had already left for idol training, so we thought we would check the place out. We still haven’t been inside, but I can definitely feel that kind of vibe. We were on our way back when we noticed that Ikebukuro was on the way, so we thought we’d drop by.

Ryuji: That’s great of you. Though, you coulda just texted me.

Ren: We thought this would be better... And Mishima wanted to look inside of here.

Okay, you already pointed it out.

Shin: It’s alright. You just wanted to know what it’s like inside the world of idols.

Mishima: Really, you understand?

Thanks.

Keigo: So, we’ll be seeing you guys there?

You bet. We’re just going to go home and change.

Ryuji: Ya know, I still don’t know why you’re in yer Shujin uniform when you don’t go there anymore.

Ren: ... It felt more natural.

Akechi: It’s no surprise. You’ve been going there since your probation.

Yuto: Probation?

Ren: It’s a long story. I’ll tell you another time.

Ryuji: Right. See you guys later.

>With that, we leave.

Ryuji: I better go, too. I promised my mom I’d take her to the concert.

Kanade: Same here. My mom and younger brother want to be there as well. We’re performing together.

>With that, they depart for now.

>The Sakamoto residence. Ryuji and his mother were getting ready for the concert.

I am so proud of you, Ryu kun. Your debut concert will be spectacular, I just know it.

Ryuji: Thanks, Mom...

But can you not call me that when we get there?

Mrs. Sakamoto: Oh, you’re not fun.

>They were just about to open the door when...

KNOCK! KNOCK!

Mrs. Sakamoto: I wonder who that could be at this time.

>She opened the door... Her jaw dropped.

Mrs. Sakamoto: Alex?

Hello, Hana chan.

What the hell are you doin’ here!?

Paine: I was going to pay you all a visit, but it looks like you were just leaving.

Mrs. Sakamoto: To Ikebukuro

Paine: Of course, I completely forgot that it’s Ryu kun’s debut concert tonight.

Ryuji: So what are you gonna do about it? Crash it and cause trouble like you always do?

Paine: Not tonight. I’ve already had quite the day. Tokyo’s as confusing as always. However, a J-pop concert doesn’t sound like a bad way to end it.

>The two were speechless.

Paine: Don’t worry. I won’t let anyone know the trouble about us.

Ryuji: ...

Alright. But you better behave yourself... He’s here.

Paine: Very well. I’ll be sure to behave as you please.

>With that, they leave for the concert.

>The Dream Festival Stadium, Ikebukuro. Ryuji had us come backstage.

Looks like the idol life is doing well for you.

And a new song to boot? That’s amazing.

Ryuji: Thanks. I so needed to see you guys.

Why are you asking it like that? Did something happen?

Ryuji: It’s... It’s nothin’. But I’ll tell ya soon enough.

As long as you’re alright. Just remember, we’re here for you.

Ryuji: By the way, I invited some other friends to come over to the concert. You should join them in the stands.

Your old tack teammates? I guess they would want to support you on your debut.

Ryuji: Yeah, Takeishi and Nakaoka would. They’re already here, but no, I wasn’t talking about them. The friends I was talkin’ about are from overseas. They’re with my mom now. But I havta warn ya...

They’re as crazy as me.

If that’s true, this will be an interesting transition.

Keigo: I agree. After what Ryuji san told us, I wonder they’re like.

Guess we’ll soon find out. DearDream is almost done with they’re performance. You guys are on next.

Yuto: Right. We’ll see you guys after the show.

>With that, we take our leave to the stands.

>We arrive up at the stands to find Mrs. Sakamoto... With five people around our age.

Whoa! Aren’t you...

Friends of your friend? Pretty much.

Mrs. Sakamoto: I’m so glad you could make it, Axel kun. And I’m also glad to be meeting your friends as well.

Thanks, Mrs. Sakamoto. After all... This would be good time to know what Axel was like when he was young.

(this was the only picture I could find, sorry Zach) You know, I could totally become an idol if I wanted to. I can sing and dance.

Yeah. You remind us everyday, dude... Especially since we can hear you all the way from the shower. (begins laughing)

>Hawk glares at Shark, but the rest of us were laughing as well.

I can see what Ryuji meant.

Well, you get used to it after a while.

How long is that? A hundred years?

Lioness: Ugh, did your bag just meowed?

Ren: ... It’s a toy.

Lioness: You went with that, didn’t you?

>It looks like I’m in a corner. Hopefully my level of Charm will get me out of this... But I have a feeling that Axel guy would beat me up if I did.

>Meanwhile, backstage, DearDream had just finished their song.

Kanade: Good luck, Ryuji san. Show them your talent.

Ryuji: Thanks.

>Ryuji was a bit nervous.

Keigo: It’s alright, Ryuji san.

...

Yuto: Look, I know your heart is racing. You’re worried that something will go wrong. I can’t promise nothing will go wrong, but only you can find a way to raise up to the occasion and set sail to the future. And with that song you wrote, it will be a show no one will forget.

You’re right. It ain’t over ‘less I say it’s over.

Yuto: Cool. So are we ready?

KUROFUNE: Ready!

>Onstage.

Alright, everyone! Are you set for the main event!?

>The audience, including us, cheered.

MC: Excellent! Ladies and folks, with their newest song and their newest member, I give you KUROFUNE!

>We all cheered as KUROFUNE got on stage.

Yuto: Now we shall began a new voyage to a new land.

Keigo: With words glowing with renewal and new adventure.

Ryuji: Some come aboard with us as we set sail to glory and love.

(with the rest of KUROFUNE) Let the hunt for the Treasured Hearts begin!

Dorkia Time!

Catch Your Cheers!

Keigo: Thank you for your cheers. I shall wear them with pride.

Catch Your Cheers!

Yuto: You give me the winds to go forward.

Catch Your Cheers!

(Still not a good enough artist. So you’ll still have to imagine.)

Ryuji: You are the stars that will guide the way.

(Reminder: The following images are not in violation of the Tumblr policy as they do not actually contain sensitive or adult contain. They only show the upper half. Please do not flag.)

(Imagine Ryuji wearing the same outfit, but Bronze in comparison to Gold and Silver.)

Innocent Pirates Series! Complete!

(I also like to apologize if this song sounds like the tune of You Are Mi・Amore. J-pop songs are one of my weakest points.)

Yuto We travel across the azure so deep A new goal of glory is what we now seek

Keigo This treasure that lies ahead is bright as fire A map to this prize is not at all required

Ryuji Sailing through time the shining blue

KUROFUNE For the real treasure of our journey is you

We seek your

Treasured Hearts Our spirits fly high Striking through the clouds like a bolt from the blue

Your Treasured Hearts Under ruby skies The real treasure of our dreams is you

Ryuji (Beat boxing)

>Everyone cheered and applauded when they finished their song. This was one of the greatest concerts I’ve ever been to. And I am sure there will be more.

>The dressing room. We came here to see KUROFUNE and congratulate them for such a wonderful song.

You guys kicked ass out there!

Oh! Sorry, Mrs. Sakamoto.

Mrs. Sakamoto: It’s okay, Ann chan. In your position, I would have said the same thing.

But there is a point to that. That was a most excellent performance.

Ryuji: Thanks, you guys. You’re the best.

Mishima: I already knew idols were amazing. But you, Sakamto kun, you and KUROFUNE were awesome.

Yusuke: Indeed. Even I couldn’t stop moving to the beat.

Ren: Same here. My feet were just itching to dance.

Akechi: As were mine.

Keigo: I’m glad to hear it. You know, Ren kun, Yusuke kun, Akechi kun, and Mishima kun, if you’re interested, you could try becoming idols yourselves.

Yusuke: That sounds like a nice offer, but I prefer to keep my style to a canvas with a brush.

Akechi: I’ll be book solid with my college work and the many cases I have to solve.

Mishima: I get stage fright.

Ren: I don’t think I could do it either. Besides, whenever I sing...

I sound like Lyn Inaizumi.

Well so do me, Ann, Makoto, and Haru!

Ren: Don’t get me wrong. I like Lyn’s songs. I especially like Life Will Change.

Makoto: I’m more prone to Last Surprise myself. Sis also likes Whims of Fate.

Hawk: If those clowns won’t take up your offer... I’m available.

Yuto and Kegio: ...

King: (Axel’s friend, not Tamaki) In your dreams, Bird Breath. Even if it is called the Dream Festival.

Shark: He’s right, dude... It would seem more like a Nightmare Festival. (laughing)

>Hawk glared.

?????: If only it were, but I wouldn’t want Ryu kun’s dream to be ruined.

>We turned quickly to see the new person in the room.

Y- You’re...

Ryuji: You’d you get past security?

Paine: I can be persuasive.

If by persuasive you mean you gave them a little touch of pain.

Paine: No, they just look one look at me and ran for it.

Axel: I can see that happening. What brings you here anyway, Paine? I don’t see you coming all the way to Japan for it’s new and old culture.

Paine: What? Are you saying I can’t visit them? I haven’t seen them in years and you’re forgetting the only reason you and Ryuji know each other is because of me.

Ryuji: Just remember what I said. Behave yourself and we won’t have a problem.

Paine: Oh, Ryu kun. If you think I came back to ruin your lives like I did before... I would have done it when I arrived. Anyway, I’m glad you achieved your dream. That’s all I wish to say. So I’m off. See you soon.

>With that, he leaves.

Lioness: He introduced you? Last time? Axel, explain.

Axel: It was back when Paine and my dad worked together. Dad brought me to Japan and that’s how I met Ryuji.

Haru: But do he and Paine know each other?

Ryuji: (looking down) ...

Mrs. Sakamoto: Ryuji, I think you should tell them. They going to have to learn the truth sooner or later.

Akechi: She’s right. You already told me, Harry, Peter, Yuto, and Keigo. I think it best if the rest of your friends know.

Ren: Ryuji?

Ryuji: ... Remember how I told you that my dad was an abusive d bag who abandoned me and my mom? ... That wasn’t the whole truth.

Makoto: Did your dad worked with Paine? Did they knew each other?

Ryuji: Let’s just say they are closer than you think...

Like the same person close.

>We were all very silent about this. It couldn’t be true... Can it?

Lioness: You mean, Paine is your...

Stop! I don’t think we need to hear anymore.

Futuba: He’s right. We get the picture. But why didn’t you tell us sooner, Ryuji?

Ryuji: Kamoshida already had some dirt on me. Do you think I wanted to give him more ammo? That the disgrace of the track team has a father who is not only an abusive drunkard, but a hardened criminal? And one who already has a daughter?

Ann: No, I suppose not.

Makoto: But that doesn’t change you are and what we think about you. Remember, some of us had a past like yours.

Akechi: I should know. I’m one of them.

Yuto: And if we cared about your past, we wouldn’t have let you perform tonight.

Keigo: You are a member of KUROFUNE. We care about you.

And so do us.

Ryuji: ...

Thanks, guys. You’re the best.

Keigo: Speaking of being an idol, I told the producer to let me give you your first paycheck for tonight. Here it is.

>Keigo gives Ryuji a check for ¥50,000 (about $450).

Ryuji: I’m gonna give it Mom.

Mrs. Sakamoto: Are you sure, Ryu kun? You earned this money.

Ryuji: Part of the reason I became an idol is so I can ease yer burden of havin’ to look after me. Since I couldn’t do it on the track team and Norman Osborn only used you to store his money, I hope this will make up for it.

Mrs. Sakamoto: Well... Thank you, Ryu kun. This should support us for a good amount of time.

Ryuji: You’re welcome.

>It was quite the dramatic night.

>My room in Cafe Leblanc. I know we already accepted Ryuji despite what we learned and I know it’s probably none of my business, but I asked Futaba to do some checking around. What is Paine really doing here?

Morgana: Are you sure you want to do this? Ryuji probably won’t be happy.

Ren: I know. But I’m worried about him. And I know Akechi is as well. Don’t worry. I already asked him. They should be contacing us soon.

Morgana: I sure hope you know what you’re doing. From what I’ve heard, Alexander Paine is someone you want to be careful around... Then again, he sounds just like the kind of person whose heart we should steal. But we should wait until we gather to discuss it.

>I nodded. Just then, my phone rang. I checked it. Ryuji, Futaba, Akechi, and Makoto were in the chat room.

I found something. Looks like you were right to talk about this.

I know kinda asked you to drop it. But now I’m a little curious myself.

What did you find, Futaba chan?

It turns out Paine didn’t come straight here from Landmark City. Before he left, he made a stop someplace else.

Where did he go?

Someplace with a lot of new and untested tech. He didn’t cause any trouble there. Guess it’s because of the big strong robots that guard the place.

Untested tech? Robots? That sounds like... Griffin Rock.

Griffin Rock, Maine? Max talked about that place in one of his online lectures... But in my opinion, the people there may be good with tech, but are not very bright.

What does he want from that place?

I don’t know... But I suppose we’ll find out soon.

>Just what is waiting for us? Guess we’ll know soon enough.