#rice paddy warrior

[howlingday]

Let's see...

Martial Arcs... Pinegold... Farmer's Knight... Lotus Farm... Chivalry...

A knight... a ninja... and a farmer...

Rice Paddy Warrior? Bushido Bros?

All in for'em. What's the ot3 name? :^)

[mimble-sparklepudding]

2. Guild.

Mimble has been a member of The Botanist Guild of Gridania almost as long as he has been adventuring.

He has a good relationship with Fufucha Fucha and is grateful for her tutelage in botany and horticulture. Despite his status as Warrior of Light, Mimble publicly defers to Fufucha as the Guild Leader when visiting the gardens of Gridania.

They don't entirely agree on some issues - Fufucha is an advocate of living in harmony with nature and the rhythm of the seasons, Mimble tends to employ magic carelessly to cause spring flowers to blossom and autumn fruits to ripen on a whim (or sometimes just to show off).

However, when chided by Fufucha, he does concede that it is more useful to assist people to properly grasp the science of harvesting lumber and crops, since he isn't always going to be around to conjure them up all willy nilly (Mimble does a great many things all willy nilly unless prevailed upon not to).

Consequently he has shared the expertise he received from Fufucha during his travels across Eorzea and beyond, from the rice paddies of Namai to the Hortorium of The First. In this way Mimble has ensured that Fufucha's knowledge and dedication to helping others has changed the lives of countless people, even though she herself may never meet them.

[jolikmc-thoughts]

Oh, nooo… What have we done. I was talking with ChatGPT a bit, and we somehow came up with the most ridiculous super hero parody. In fact, we made two of them. These are basically Superhero League of Hoboken fan characters, since they're so insanely silly. Check it out. —

The Senbei Senshi

Backstory: Trained in the ancient and sacred art of cracker combat by a hidden order of health-conscious monks, the Senbei Senshi travels the world promoting balance, discipline, and healthy snacking. Born in a pristine rice paddy at the foot of Mount Fuji, he views anything made with wheat or processed grains as inferior. He has rejected modern snack culture in favor of pure, unadulterated senbei.

Powers:

Rice Cracker Shuriken: Throws razor-sharp senbei that can slice through steel… or so he claims.

Gluten-Free Gale: Creates a whirlwind of health-conscious crackers to overwhelm his enemies, forcing them into submission with guilt over their poor snack choices.

Organic Smokescreen: Disappears into a puff of flourless rice powder when cornered, leaving behind a faint smell of soy sauce and a lecture on clean eating.

Fennel Finish: His ultimate move, where he hurls extra-thick taralli-like crackers at high velocity, boasting about their “subtle, refined flavors.”

Personality: The Senbei Senshi is the epitome of smug, constantly reminding everyone of the virtues of his rice crackers and why they’re nutritionally superior. He believes he’s a beacon of righteousness, showing the world the “correct” way to snack. His superiority complex is so massive that he refuses to even acknowledge the existence of other snacks, considering them unworthy. He speaks in dramatic, hushed tones, as though every cracker he tosses carries the weight of a centuries-old legacy.

Commentary: Picture a stoic, noble warrior dedicated to the way of the rice cracker. He believes his gluten-free, artisanal rice-based projectiles are far superior to anything his opponents could possibly muster. His fighting style is flawless, of course, and his moves are always accompanied by a smug speech about the purity of his rice crackers and the health benefits they bring.

This guy is just dying for a comic series or a cameo in a game like The Superhero League of Hoboken. He could be a perfect fit as a guest character who tries way too hard to impress the main team, only to be constantly mocked for his self-righteous attitude. —

Le Baguette Bruiser

Backstory: Le Baguette Bruiser — real name Jean-Pierre Croûte — was born in a small French village, raised on the finest bread in the world. From a young age, he trained in the art of baking, mastering the perfect crust, the soft interior, and the unmistakable crack of a freshly baked baguette. But Jean-Pierre found his true calling when he realized that bread wasn’t just for eating—it could also be a weapon of great power. Now, he travels the world, defending the honor of bread, especially the crusty French variety, using his baguettes to fight injustice (and unhealthy snacks).

Powers:

Baguette Baton: Wields a super-hardened baguette that can break through anything from shields to bad attitudes. The crispier the crust, the deadlier the blow.

Pain d’Éclair (Bread Lightning): Throws his baguettes with lightning speed, each hit delivering a crispy shock that knocks enemies off balance.

Bread Barrage: Summons an endless stream of freshly baked baguettes from his legendary bread oven, launching them in rapid succession like a bread-based machine gun.

Crusty Counter: When struck, he hardens his baguette to absorb the impact, then retaliates with an even crispier strike.

Personality: Le Baguette Bruiser is the definition of a proud French artisan. He believes that bread is life itself, and no meal is complete without a perfectly baked baguette. His pride in French cuisine knows no bounds, and he is constantly lamenting the rise of what he calls “inferior” bread substitutes, like crackers or flatbreads. He has a bit of a snobbish streak, but his heart is in the right place. He respects other culinary cultures, but only as long as they acknowledge the supremacy of bread.

Jean-Pierre, despite his deep love for all things French and his borderline fanaticism for le pain, has always found croissants to be too soft, too buttery, and too flaky for his tastes. In his mind, the true essence of French bread is its crust, and the baguette embodies that perfectly. He respects the craftsmanship that goes into making croissants, but to him, they’re just “fancy breakfast fluff” compared to the hard-earned, battle-ready crust of a freshly baked baguette.

Commentary: He has a friendly rivalry with the Senbei Senshi, constantly challenging him to see which is superior: rice-based snacks or grain-based bread. The two often clash in the kitchen and on the battlefield, each believing their culinary creation holds the key to ultimate satisfaction.

This matchup would be legendary. Imagine the Senbei Senshi and Le Baguette Bruiser engaging in a duel of snacks, with bread flying one way and rice crackers the other, all while passionately lecturing about their superiority in their respective crafts. The humor would be top-tier, especially if they grudgingly team up against a common enemy—perhaps someone like The Crouton Crusher, who desecrates both rice and bread by turning them into… salads!

[swearingcactus]

Far Cry 3's Rook Islands - how based on Indonesia is it actually is

according to an Indonesian who is not exactly qualified to write this post but by god will i make that everyone else's problem. Long post under the cut in case you'd like to know the fun facts and insights about the game and Rook and how much they got right and wrong.

Here's what I will discuss:

Locations, Flora & Fauna

The Rakyat and what they preach and practice

Citra, Dennis and Vaas

I would like to preface by saying Indonesia is a big ass archipelago, literally the biggest archipelagic state in the world, and we have many cultures, sub-languages, and various indigenous tribes of which I'm not part of. So there could be a possibility that the FC3 game devs were basing Rook especially the Rakyat on certain tribes I'm not familiar with or with an actual cultural rep who knows more than I do, but somehow I doubt that too, considering how they seem to just base Rook vaguely on various Polynesian areas.

1. Locations, Flora & Fauna

The Rook Islands page in the Far Cry 3 Wiki does a great job of explaining this in more depth than I do, but to TL;DR it: the flora & fauna in Rook makes it seem like Rook's most likely in the eastern side of Indonesia (sharing the same fauna and flora as Papua New Guinea and Australia). This is especially evident since Rook has komodo dragons and they're only available in Nusa Tenggara Timur.

However, the vastly different animals in the North and South Islands of Rook indicates the possibility of Rook running through the Wallace Line, which irl happens between Bali and Lombok, two very close islands which have vastly different faunas.

So actually to squash down the locations into two tiny islands and grab all the crazy animals into two distinct parts like this actually happens irl, which is cool!

I got nothing much to add about plants cus they all seem to be pretty straightforward and all are available in Indonesia from what I see... with the exception that I previously had believed that the white plant that Jason can pick to craft immunity effects are jasmines, but it seems that officially they're tiares which are more commonly known as being used as leis by the Polynesian people. Either way, both Jasmines and Tiares are small, worn traditionally by women, smells nice and have some spooky connotations, so same difference to me :^)

The only location in-game with an Indonesian name is Beras Town. Beras means 'uncooked rice', so there's a little fun fact to note since when you get there the first time to see Hoyt shooting at the natives it was fittingly in a rice paddy field.

2. The Rakyat and what they preach and practice

The Rakyat is a dead giveaway that Rook is based on Indonesia or Malaysia. Rakyat means 'people' in both languages, and is pronounced correctly in-game. However, most of the Rakyat weren't speaking Indonesian and spoke with a New Zealand accent so are they like. Samoan? Maori?? God knows.

Indonesia has certain tribes who have tattooing as part of their history and culture, but the tatau seems to be based more on the Samoan tatau, at least from the name itself. Tattoos are called tato in Indonesian and not tatau. The design is also not like any known designs from tribes that have tattooing culture in Indonesia. With how Dennis explains each animal on Jason's tatau had meaning in the Rakyat's history for warriors, it seems like the entire thing was a creative liberty.

Other than the tataus, there's not much we know of about The Rakyat other than they're natives of the island. There's a side mission where you have to spy on a cheating husband, this one stuck out to me for a couple reasons. One being it's funny as hell, and also because the name of the guy the husband is cheating with is Jalak. Jalak is the Indonesian name for a Starling, there's a specific sub-species of the bird that is endemic to Bali, Indonesia. It's extra-funny if it's implied that the man the husband is cheating with is named after a bird because the word bird in Indonesia (burung) is a euphemism for dick.

Another side mission also has a minor character you have to find called 'Senin' which was pronounced wrong but it's an Indonesian word that means 'Monday'.

Those are all I remember, I'll edit if I remember more!

3. Citra, Dennis and Vaas

Citra - let's start with the most glaring thing. Citra is not supposed to be said with a 'S' sound but a 'Ch' sound. (if you go to google translate and type in Citra in Indonesia and listen to it, that's the right pronunciation). If they wanted to pronounce it like they did in-game, they should've just named her Sitra which would still sound pretty natural as an Indonesian name.

Other than her name pronunciation error, the name itself is actually pretty solid. Citra means image, like 'made in the image of god' kind of image. Considering she is the Rakyat's leader and is obsessed with cultivating an image of strength and traditional values, it's a fitting name.

Citra is also the only character to speak proper Bahasa Indonesia. She actually pronounces the words correctly and speaks clearly, which I was pleasantly surprised with! Just ignore the way the Indonesian is written in subtitles cus they are completely wrong. She only says a few lines so I'll discuss them here:

Senapan ke bawah - said when Jason first shows up with Dennis at her temple and she asks her men to stand down. Translates to 'Lower your guns.'

Berikan saya herbal - said when she asks for the first potion that Jason has to drink to get the vision that led him to hallucinate where to find Willis. Translates to: 'Give me the potion/herbs'.

Cinta untuk anak-anak kami - you can miss this if you didn't pick her ending. This is the only correctly subtitled Indonesian line, and it translates to 'love for our children'. Not child. Children. Plural. Miss ma'am... what in the everliving fuck are you trying to do hoping to have children with a guy who's shooting blanks at this point and who you proceed to kill immediately after? Let's move on.

Dennis speaks Bahasa Melayu, which is quite interesting to note, considering he is a foreigner who tries very hard to fit in. Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Indonesia are very similar to each other, hence why we can understand each other, but there is still a distinct difference between them. Since we're overanalyzing, it could be said that Dennis and Citra has never been 100% on the same page with how they speak slightly different languages.

Vaas never once speaks Bahasa Indonesia or Melayu, which considering how he has thrown away his Rakyat roots, makes some sense. And I love Michael Mando but I think he would definitely butcher the language lmao so it's great that they didn't make him say any native lines. Vaas is also not an Indonesian name, though we do have vas as a word, since vaas is Dutch for 'vase' and we picked up a few words when Netherlands colonized Indonesia. but i doubt they used the word vase for a villain name but hell, who knows. If we wanna get funky I guess we could say that Vaas was always colonized/under someone's control even down to his name.

Conclusion

Far Cry 3's Rook personally for me didn't do a good job at being Indonesian enough, from how villages look, to location names, to little things like the lack of food stalls that you would 100% be able to find if you just walk down the road in any location here. Though to be fair, it was 2012 and as such, a different time with different standards that they have since then set higher for themselves. Ubisoft did a much better job at adapting Kyrat into a believable country that was based off Nepal with rich world-building from NPC notes, locations in map, to the little items you can loot from the enemies that included Bagh-chal pieces! FC5 was also very true to Montana from what I'm led to believe from the countless praises in Reddit, and FC6 had a lot of great representation too.

At the end of the day, FC3's a great game with a solid map based vaguely off a location I just happen to be familiar with, and that is still pretty fucking cool.

[axelaxolotll]

YAY!

(Special interest anon)

betta fish can live up to 5 years, 7 in the right conditions!

they are insectivores which means they mostly eat insects!

Betta fish originated from Thailand but can be found in nearby countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Wild bettas live in shallow, freshwater areas such as rice paddies, stagnant ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams.

there real name is Siamese fighting fish named after the Siamese warriors who first found them!

at minimum bettas should be kept in a five gallon tank with hiding places and a heater! They prefer 78-80 Degrees!

Bettas are anabantoids, which means they can breathe atmospheric air using a unique organ called the labyrinth. This accounts for their ability to thrive in low-oxygen water conditions that would kill most other fish, like the rice paddies, slow-moving streams, drainage ditches, and large puddles they live in! betta fish can learn tricks and even recognize their owners!

There are more than 70 different species of betta fish in the wild. The most popular species is called Betta splendens and that is what type you will almost always see in pet stores. There are over 30 varieties of Betta splendens that have been selectively bred to show certain traits like bright colors or long flowing fins. Some of the most common varieties of pet bettas include the dumbo, delta, double tail, halfmoon and so many more!

Many people think that betta fish do well in bowls, but this isn’t true. In reality, bettas need clean water conditions to thrive. This means they need a tank that is at least 5 gallons , or bigger, with a heater and a filter!

It’s common in animals for males to have more vibrant colors than females. The same is true for captive-bred bettas. Male betta fish often have more bright and varied colors than female betta fish do!

Wild betta fish are different looking than those bred in captivity. Captive-bred bettas have been selectively bred to be more colorful then their wild forebearers because most people prefer brightly colored fish as pets!

WOAHBTHIS IS ALL SO COOL

i think little me accidentally messed up somewhere because my little guy lasted maybe 4 months, even tho he had a filtered+heated+always clean tank with lots of pet safe furniture and stuff that was 8 gallons.. and i think i fed him decently. who knows tho may he rest in peace in fish heaven (if such thing exists)

this is all actually so cool omg this is so fun to read about :o

[fighting-and-drawing]

Heart of the Warrior Chapter 6: Meia Lua

Fandom: Cybird Ikemen Sengoku

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Yukimura Sanada x Male!OC

Chapter Warning: Death

     A lone merchant carried a cart loaded with crates topped with a tarp to cover it all. Standing out from the dirtied kimonos and kasa hats of farmers and villagers, this man wore a clean foreign black outfit, a leather bag slung around his torso that swung back and forth with each step, and a black hat that covered his face from the overbearing sun's rays.

     Although his head faced down towards the ground, his eyes darted everywhere, scanning each and every person he passed by. The dirt road he walked on was wet with mud, the rice paddies around him looking wilted with numerous farmers looking at their harvest in disappointment. The village houses looked shambled, even as he exited from the surrounding farms and into town.      The villagers all looked at him with confusion. It was not every day they see a foreigner cross through their small town. Their awed and weary gazes all pointed at the merchant as he lugged the ever-growing heavy cart up the dirt road until he finally caught the attention of two samurai guards. The merchant halted as one of the guards grunted "OI!" at him. The merchant let go of the cart, the villagers dispersing, yet keeping their eyes on him as the samurai trotted over to the foreigner.      The merchant kept his hat down, yet observed the incoming samurai guards. Both were dressed in armor that shone under the light, their weapons gilded and flawless in appearance, almost like diamonds in the rough. The merchant licked his dry lips, his heart racing as one of the samurai drew his sword and pointed it at the merchant. Slowly, with the tip of his pristine blade, he caught the edge of the man's hat and flung it off his face.      Never faltering, the man cleared his throat and nodded. "Bom dia?" he said dryly.

     The samurai looked him over from head-to-toe and back, their stoic glares showing now confusion. "Who are you!?"one of them roared. "Present yourself!"

     The merchant nodded, beads of sweat appearing on his forehead. "Uh...espere um minuto....uh....I'm sent by my boss to deliver the....goods."

     The guards looked at each other in confusion before looking back at him. "Really? This doesn't look like everything our lord bought. And, you're not the usual person to deliver for us!"

     "Uh." The merchant nervously smiled. "That guy caught....cholera. I'm his replacement. And, there were some problems with the delivery, but my boss wanted to make sure you get the good stuff first."

     The guards pushed the merchant aside with a forceful hand, the man nearly falling on his butt. One of them uncovered the tarp that covered the cart while the other opened the top of one of the crates. He merely observed the crate's contents as the other guard joined him. They looked inside for a bit, looking at each other before smiling. They closed the crate and approached the merchant, who was busy beating the dust out of his hat.

     "Tudo bem?" the merchant asked. "We good?"

     "Yes," said one of the guards. "Let's go. Now."

     Not even offering to help, the samurai merely led the way for the merchant to fix and carry his cart. For now, he got their trust, but now it was a matter of keeping it, lest he gets his head lopped off. Just like before, he kept his eyes open under the shade of his hat, seeing the villagers scramble away from the three, even being tossed aside by the samurai guards. He bit his lip, muttering something under his breath.

     Soon, they made it to Jinpachi Castle, several guards opening the gates to allow the merchant inside. Just like the two guards, their equipment looked brand new, not even wearing a battle scar or scratch. The merchant looked around as he waited on the castle grounds, leaning on his cart. He quickly wrote something in a small leather-bound notebook, until he heard an enthusiastic laugh echoing from out of the castle. He tossed the notebook back into his bag, seeing a swaggering young man in a luscious kimono and haori accompanied by several armed samurai. The merchant smiled, tipping up his hat, before bowing, but yet again he was pushed aside as the man rushed to the crates.

     He took no time in opening one, digging inside before taking out a Portuguese matchlock rifle. His eyes sparkled with glee as he looked it over, aiming it towards the sky and cantankerously at his guards, making "pew pew" sounds as if he were actually shooting. The merchant nearly laughed; it was like watching a kid at a candy store. However, he was soon reminded that he was dealing with a maniac when—

     "Ooh—ooooh...." the merchant muttered as he raised his hands, the arquebus now pointed at him.

     The merchant now guessed that it was none other than Nezu Jinpachi, the ex-pirate-turned-samurai daimyo

     "Senhor, espere...não atire," the merchant said. "I-It's not even loaded."

     Nezu glared at him silently, until his lips gradually formed into a bright smile that erupted in laughter. He tossed the arquebus to a nearby samurai before taking the man's hand in an unfamiliarly friendly handshake that did nothing to ease the trembling merchant.      "You foreigners always surprise me," Nezu laughed.

     "Yeah...." the merchant murmured. "Uh...well, as I have....explained to your man over there, the rest will come tomorrow. But, my boss wanted to let you have the top-priority items first."

     "Good," he plainly said. "I'm gonna need it."

     Nezu walked away, ordering his men to take the crates off of the cart. The merchant gave off a "huh" and eyed Nezu. "Yes...it looks like you're preparing for war...again."

     Nezu ferociously turned back to the merchant, taking two steps towards him that made the merchant back up into his cart. "You best hold yer tongue, boy, before you ask too many questions," Nezu growled.

     The merchant gulped but stood up straight. "All's I'm saying, senhor, is that if you're preparing for war....uh....there's....more where that came from," the merchant said, tapping the crate. "As you say, we always surprise, yes?"

     Nezu stayed silent, but again, he burst out in laughter. "Well, if you're offering, then the next one's on you, yeah?"

     The man joined in nervous laughter. "Yes, senhor. You got it. Now, I'll leave you to enjoy your gifts...."

     "Yeah, go get outta here. And get my other stuff!"

     The man tipped his hat low and wasted no time in rushing his cart out of the castle and through the town, his jovial and nervous expression turning back into gloom. He sped through the town and down the road through the farms and out of sight of the samurai guards in the town. He didn't stop until he reached a derelict house, hiding his cart inside a shed. He looked around, making sure he wasn't followed, before he pulled out a few panels from the cart, revealing a set of clothes.      "Aiight," he said to himself. "You saw the town, now it's time to get yo' ass to work."

     Night fell, the moon sitting just above the land surrounded by the myriad of stars that illuminated the night sky. The town surrounding Jinpachi Castle fell into darkness, whereas the castle itself was brightly lit up. Guards surrounded the castle and made their rounds, their lord and his small number of vassals admiring their new collection of Portuguese matchlocks in the armory.      "Swords and spears are so primitive compared to these," Nezu awed, looking down the sights of the iron-barreled gun. "I can't wait to see the look on their faces when we surprise them with a whole line of these."      "But, is it wise, my lord," asked one of his vassals. "If Takeda finds out what we're doing—"      "Hush!" Nezu growled. "It doesn't matter what they think anymore. Even back then they were in dire need of help. Now that their defeat is imminent, it's now my time to succeed in power."      "Our spies informed us that they are still gaining numbers," another vassal informed Nezu.      "With their enemies backing us," Nezu proudly said. "I will be the one to take Takeda's head once and for all, and that prideful demon will finally see my worth. I'll be close enough to where I can even take his head, too!"      "Of course, my lord," said the vassal. "But first, we should focus on our primary—"

     A servant busted through the armory, kneeling down on his trembling knees as quickly as if he fell down, bowing ferociously towards Nezu. "I'm so sorry, my lord," he cried out, "But, you have visitors!"

     "Visitors?" Nezu repeated in wonder, passing the matchlock he held to his vassal. "Who?"

     "Lord Takeda!" he trembled. "He requests to see you at the Main Council Room at once! I apologize—I—"

     Nezu kicked the man in the face. The man flew back toward a rack of spears that toppled over him. "SHUT UP!!" Nezu roared. "(What the hell is he doing here so suddenly?)"he wondered. He looked at his vassals, all visibly shaken, Nezu's mind also whirring. Was he here to kill him?

     No, it was his chance. Nezu stood up straight, grabbing a nearby pistol from a rack. "Akihiro, go load the guns we got from that foreigner. Surround the room quickly. The rest of you, come with me. Even if he came with his army, it won't matter once he's dead."

     His vassals apprehensively bowed to him, Akihiro sending for his men while the rest of the vassals followed Nezu out of the armory. Nezu took his time, seeing two guards posted outside the door to the Council Room. He hid his pistol inside the folds of his kimono, making sure his sword was by his side and his vassals were armed. He gripped the handle of his sword tight with his left hand, furrowing his eyebrows as he marched towards the doors, his guards opening it for him.

     "Lord Taked—huh?"

     Nezu stood there speechless as the only person in the room was—

     "—the merchant!?" Nezu gawked. "What is the meaning of this?!"

     "Oh good, you remember me," the merchant said. "Come in, take a seat. It's yer house."

     Nezu grunted, cautiously walking around the room and towards the front, his vassals surrounding the merchant, now dressed in a plain kimono and hakama, a short sword displayed on his left hip. He looked completely different—even the nervous face he saw before was replaced with a cocky glance. Nezu started to piece it together.      "You foreigners do certainly surprise," Nezu growled. "What? Takeda got the Portuguese to send them their spies?"

     "Oh, I'm not actually Portuguese or Japanese, but I do come from some pretty little islands. However, that isn't why I'm here," the merchant said. "Name's Thai."

     "I don't care," Nezu sneered. "Kill him!"

     Before his vassals could react, Thai quickly said, "Whoa! You kill me, and tomorrow morning, then the three thousand samurai waiting for me to return tonight will come in charging and lay waste to everyone here. You got three thousand people right here right now? I didn't see them when I was busy looking over all your shit."

     "Tsk! You brat," Nezu growled, stopping his vassals with a quick motion of his hand. "What do you want? I see you're a spy, but this is very unusual."

     "Yeah they told me to stick to the shadows but I'm more of a day-strolling kind of guy," Thai said. "I just wanted to hear it from you for clarification. You have all these guns and all these newly conscripted soldiers tearing everything away from these starving folk to feed your little war machine, but for what? Is this really to strike back at the Oda under Lord Shingen's command?"

     "What's a 'machine'?"

     Thai rolled his eyes, forgetting for a second the absolute fear he struggled to hide. "Think of it as 'effort,'" Thai scolded. "Now answer the damn question."

     "Your lord has asked us all to ready ourselves for war, and I did so as he commanded. He didn't explain the method in which we hire new warriors and how—"

     "Bullshit, you just tried to kill me," Thai said. "How do you explain that?"          "Because you're a spy!" Nezu argued. "I kill spies for less than the stunt you pulled. You're lucky you were sent by your lord otherwise I woulda—."

     Thai nodded in suspicion. "—you mean 'our' lord, yeah?"

     Nezu stayed quiet, figuratively foaming at the mouth with rage fueling in his eyes. To think this spy—this foreigner—is getting at him struck a nerve. He glared at Thai, trying to find a chink in his armor. Thai's eyes never faltered, glaring right back at the ex-pirate, but Nezu looked down towards Thai's hand, his finger itching at the edge of his thumb.      "Hm...to think some Takeda spy will get the better of me—" Nezu spat at Thai, the latter wiping it off his cheek with his sleeve. "I don't fear a sick, dying man hiding from the hawks that'll tear him apart. Come tomorrow, his warriors will be here to avenge your death, but all they'll find is a burning village surrounded by bodies with your head on a pike!"

     Thai's eyes widened in disgust. "....fuck you!"

     "Men!!"

     The vassals quickly bolted behind their leader, Thai looking around as the sliding doors around the council room opened. Nezu grinned wildly as he placed his hands on his hips, Thai looking at him in utter fear.      "Goddamn...." Thai muttered.

     "Any last words, foreign dog?"Nezu laughed.

     "Yeah....I'm still figuring out what to say to Fernando after I knocked his ass out," Thai quipped suddenly.

     "Huh?"

     One by one, the unconscious bodies of Nezu's men fell down from the entrances of the sliding doors, samurai clad in red kimonos stepping out to greet Nezu with drawn swords. Thai leaned on his left leg, rubbing his tongue on his lips as from the main entrance both Yukimura and Saizou stepped out. "Oh, and I lied I actually had backup," Thai said. "You heard all that, Yuki?"

     "I did," Yukimura said, patting Thai on the back as the latter leaned in closer.

     "(Never make me do this again)," Thai whispered into Yuki's ear.

     Yukimura lightly pushed Thai back with a scoff. Saizou sighed before setting his sights on a bamboozled Nezu. "You dare threaten our lord's life after you pledged loyalty to him?!" Saizou roared. "Surrender yourself!"

     Nezu gasped in anger. He was outnumbered, sure, but there was no way he would be surrendering himself to that weak, old man. "Over my dead body," Nezu growled. "Men, defend me!"

     No one moved, the vassals hands' trembling and fumbling around with their swords. It was clear to everyone that they didn't want to fight. The vassals knew it was over, and they dropped their swords and stepped away from Nezu. "You!" Nezu grunted. "Cowards! The lot of you!" The ex-pirate vehemently looked around, seeing that he was now all alone in his defiance. He clenched his fists and gritted his teeth, turning to Yukimura with ferocious eyes.

     "I might die, but I'll be taking you with me!" Nezu roared, drawing out his pistol.

     "Lord Yukimura!" Saizou roared, jumping to cover Yuki.

     Nezu pulled the trigger, the matchlock dropping down to the breach. Yukimura's samurai rushed in to shield their lord, but Thai had a different idea. He lunged at Nezu, spinning around and throwing his heel right at Nezu's arm, the pistol shooting mere milliseconds after. The bullet grazed Thai's cheek as he spun around, shooting out a kick right at Nezu's chest that pushed him back. Nezu drew his sword, but Thai ducked under, throwing a kick right at his gut and another at his chest. Nezu stumbled back and dropped his sword, Thai spinning around again and kicking him right in the head. Nezu's body fell to the ground with a loud thud, Thai kicking the sword away.

     "Damn, that stings!" Thai hissed, wiping the blood from his cheek. "E'eryone all right?"

     "Yeah," Yukimura said. "That's twice you saved me."

     Thai stifled a chuckle. "Uh, yeah...anything for you."

     Yukimura pouted, standing back up as his warriors grabbed Nezu and dragged his barely-conscious body toward him. Saizou ordered Nezu's vassals to order their samurai to stand down, noting down what will need to be done next. However, Thai was focused more on Nezu as he looked up in disgust at Yuki as he was forced to kneel down to him.      Thai thought it was time to tie him up and bring him back to Lord Shingen until Saizou stepped towards him and handed Thai Nezu's sword.      "Hm?" Thai questioned.

     Saizou remained silent as Yuki spoke down to Nezu. "Nezu...ever since you became a samurai, you knew the penalty for disobeying our lord was death." Yukimura tossed down his tanto dagger at Nezu, the once boastful ex-pirate now a crumbling mess at Yukimura's feet.

     "You...you bastard!" Nezu grunted as he spat up blood.

     "Pick up the blade," Yukimura said.

     "Thai," Saizou said as Nezu picked up the dagger.

     "You think it's safe giving him a knife?" Thai asked Saizou. "And, what fo—"      Both Thai's realization and Saizou's silent stare alerted him. He looked at Saizou in shock.

     "Oh no—"

     "You saved your lord twice now, and your infiltration of the castle ended flawlessly," Saizou said, "Now, the only thing left to do is to present his head to Lord Shingen."      Thai looked at the sword in his hand. His heart beat violently; Thai was about to say something, but the look in Saizou's eye demanded him to keep quiet. Thai looked back at Yukimura, but he didn't look back, his disappointed gaze directed at Nezu as he positioned the knife's tip towards his abdomen.

     Now with eyes all on him, Thai clutched the sword with his shaky hands. He gritted his teeth, tears nearly forming in the corners of his eyes, knowing that everyone—including Yukimura—expected him to take a life. Thai did everything in his power to make this entire day go as seamlessly as possible, even taking in Sasuke's advice, but he never mentioned anything about refusing Yukimura or Saizou's command to take someone's life like this.      "Will ya' hurry up with it," Nezu grumbled.

     Thai sneered. He gulped, feeling a chill reverberate down his spine. He had to show no fear. If he faltered for even a second, all that trust he built with everyone would be gone in an instant. He steadied himself, shaking his head before stepping to the side of Nezu. First, he laid the sword's edge against the nape of Nezu's neck. He closed his eyes and raised his sword, taking in a deep breath as he opened his eyes again.

     It was now or never. He was going to do this, he—

     "Huh?" he shook, seeing Yukimura's hand on Thai's.

     "Thai," Yukimura softly said. "I'll do it."

     "No," Thai said, fearing he would be ridiculed for not going through with this. "I-I can do it—I can do this, just—"

     "Thai," Yukimura snapped, enough for Thai to nearly jump. "He was my vassal. It's my responsibility. Now give me the sword."

     Thai nodded silently, closing his eyes as he handed Yukimura the sword. Thai reluctantly stepped back next to Saizou and the others as Yuki replaced him. Thai stood like a statue, trembling inside, yet keeping his eyes on Nezu and Yukimura as the latter raised his sword. The look on Yukimura's face was like never he had seen before during his time here. Sure, he saw Kenshin's killer stoic glare and Saizou's needle-like focus, but those glowing ferocious amber eyes, the furrowed brows, and the bared teeth that Yukimura's face held were different. It was a face he knew all too well in the future and one he had to stare down before.      "Thai, " Saizou sighed. "I know you're not used to this, so if you need—"

     "No," Thai coldly said. "I...I have to."

     As soon as Nezu initiated the first blow, his body shaking, Yuki let out an ear-piercing shriek that filled the room and brought down his sword.

     Sasuke and Thai waited silently amongst the trees in the dark, now days later ever since that night at Jinpachi Castle. It was five minutes until the time storm, the duo waiting just out of its radius, lest they get sent back to the future without reaching the girl. Thai stayed silent, even more so than he usually was. In fact, he stayed silent ever since he came back, worrying Sasuke.

     "Thai," Sasuke suddenly asked. "Are you okay?"

     Thai stayed silent, finally giving off a, "Yeah....fine."

     Sasuke wasn't content with that answer. "Thai, what happened?" Sasuke asked.

     "Man, you know exactly what the fuck happened," Thai growled, shooting his glance at Sasuke. "Shit went real! I almost took a man's life and then had to witness it."      "I understand—"

     "Do you!?" Thai asked. "Man, all that talk about how to avoid killing, yet you never once said anything about that! Answer me this right now, or I swear to God I'm gonna jump into that time storm and never come back! Were you in my shoes before I came here? Have you took anyone's life like that ever since we came to this place?"

     Sasuke stayed silent, looking down towards the ground. "...no," he said. "I've never once been confronted with that decision."

     Thai scoffed. "Well, if and when you do, fyi—it sucks!" Thai said. He sat back down on the tree branch, letting off a disgruntled sigh as the clouds above them grew thicker. Droplets of rain started to fall from the sky, the leaves of the trees shielding the two shinobi. "For a second," Thai started to say, "It went perfectly. I managed to infiltrate a castle by myself. I talked smack to the bad guy and took 'im down. It was like a movie! Man, I never thought it would end like this though."

     Sasuke nodded silently. "This is the Sengoku Period. I guess it was time for us to be reminded that this period was a time of bloodshed and chaos."

     "And..." Thai said. "That look on his face."

     "Who?"

     "Yuki," Thai said. "For months, I forgot I was dealing with a battle-hardened warrior. He was more of a...well, not like a coach, but someone who's got your back. Meu mano! You know, so young, such a bright demeanor. His joking can be a little annoying, sure, but that's what your friends are. I only met a few like him and....well that's another story, but he didn't seem like a guy who can take a life so easily. But, that night..."

     Thai fell silent, holding himself against his knees. He balanced himself cautiously on the branch as Sasuke shuffled forward, putting a hand over his shoulder.

     "I only ever seen that look on certain people," Thai said. He sighed, putting his legs down before undoing his obi sash and opening up his kimono, revealing a small scar over his left pectoral. Sasuke studied its familiar appearance, knowing what made that scar. "I was raised well, but the environments I found myself in weren't as kind to me,"Thai finished, replacing his clothes. "That look in their eyes is something I'll never forget, and seeing that on Yuki is something I never want to see from him again."

     Lightning cracked above them, purple swirls in the sky alerting the two that the storm was finally here. The wind blew around them, the two of them covering their faces with their arms. "Thai! It's time!" Sasuke said as he stood up. "Keep your eyes open, but don't get too close!"

     Thai wiped his brow, standing up as well as he looked forward. "Yeah! Hopefully, we'll find her. Then, we can get the hell outta here!"

     The two waited, holding onto the tree as the storm swirled around them. Lightning struck the ground around them, but soon they noticed something fling itself into the bushes. Thai's eyes widened.      "There she is!" he called out, jumping down onto the ground.

     "Thai! Wait!"Sasuke called out.

     Thai rushed forward as the storm ceased, stopping just short of the bush. He started ripping it apart, saying, "Don't worry, miss! I'll get you ou—wait, what the...?"

     He scoffed in disbelief, taking out a modern-day backpack from the mess of bushes. Sasuke caught up with him, fixing his glasses as he looked at it. "It's just some poor soul's bag, goddammit," Thai grunted as he looked around.

     "Correction,"Sasuke said. "It's actually my bag. I placed it on the ground before the storm took place."

     Thai groaned, nearly pushing the bag at Sasuke as he gave it to him. "Well, you see her?"

     "No,"Sasuke confirmed. "She would have appeared exactly here. We'll have to wait for the next one."

     "...well shit."

     Another five months until the next wormhole—that's how long Thai had to wait. Thai left Sasuke once they entered Kasugayama, going for a walk around the castle grounds. Stuffing his hands inside his kimono, he aimlessly wandered around, not making eye contact with the patrolling guards.      He couldn't wait five months! It was only a matter of time until Thai would be tasked to undergo his next mission—and what then! Another execution? He knew all too well before his first mission that something was going to go wrong, but that expert-level detail planning he conjured up on the fly worked out so perfectly that for a split second, he thought everything would be all right. Infiltrate the castle, berate the villain, and take him down—that was the plan! He should have remembered that this was not a game he was living, but real life, and in the Sengoku Period, traitors were beheaded.

     Thai rubbed his throat, thirsty and tired, and was about to call it another sleepless night until he heard something fall from a nearby training hall. The lights were on, standing out like a beacon surrounded by the darkness. It beckoned Thai to investigate as he heard more falling and grunting as he stepped closer to it.

     Curiosity got the better of him as Thai peeked through the slit of the cracked-open door. He moved around, trying to find out who kept falling down on the training floor until he saw Yukimura on the ground.      "Why's he practicing ukemi this late?" he wondered silently to himself. "Is this how he goes to sleep—he just knocks...himself...out?"

     Thai fell silent as Yukimura stood back up. His back was towards Thai, but as Yukimura started moving in a familiar triangular pattern with his feet, Thai was at a loss for words. Yukimura was attempting to do a Capoeira Ginga!     "What the hell are you doing?" Thai whispered to himself, his face scrunching up. "You're so....stiff."

     Suddenly, Yukimura spun himself around, trying to throw his back leg almost like a spinning heel kick, but flung himself around too hard and fell down on his butt, letting out a pained grunt.

     Thai sighed, not knowing how to feel. He was giddy; seeing a person trying out Capoeira for the first time always brightened him up. But, there was also wonder, confusion, and a bit of apprehension. This was a far cry from the bloodthirsty samurai he saw at Jinpachi Castle, yet so familiar to the one he trained under.

     Why was he trying to imitate Thai?

     Out of pure curiosity, Thai slowly opened the door and stepped inside as Yuki picked himself back up. "Well, your Ginga is too stiff, and you're shifting your weight too much to the side," he dryly said, startling Yukimura.

     "H-hey! Where'd you come from!"Yukimura gasped. "Were you watching this whole time?"

     Thai chuckled. "Just enough," he said, "Although, I guess it's payback for you guys spying on me every time I practice alone."

     Yukimura sighed, rubbing his back. "You fight so weird," he said. "But, you still pull it off so flawlessly."

     Thai nodded. "Is this your first time?" Thai asked, pointing to the ground where Yukimura fell. "Or were you practicing before I found out?"

     Yukimura pouted, crossing his arms. "When we were at Jinpachi Castle, you threw that kick so fast and strong, but from so far away that you would have had little time to dodge that pistol. I was  trying to figure out how you did that."

     Yukimura suddenly reached out to Thai's cheek. Before the latter knew it, Yuki's finger grazed the slight cut caused by Nezu's gun. Thai gasped, stepping back as his eyes caught Yukimura's gaze. He coughed, rubbing his brow.

     "Is it still painful?" Yukimura asked.

     Thai scoffed. "Nothing compared to when I actually felt that bullet graze my cheek."

     "...I didn't mean the bullet, dummy," Yukimura muttered. Thai looked back at Yukimura, his brow arching. Yukimura frowned at Thai, giving off a small sigh. "I don't know what Saizou was thinking, giving you that sword to—"

     "Yeah, I don't need to be reminded of that," Thai interrupted. He stammered, trying to come up with something to say. He did not want to seem weak to Yukimura, especially from all of the training and expectations he had come to experience. "Look, I would've done it—you know I would do anything for you. I won't screw this up."

     "Screw what up?" Yukimura frowned. "I already told you before: it was my duty to take care of him. You should have never been considered for that option. You're just like Sasuke. You wouldn't make that decision."

     Thai sighed. "Look, it's not because I'm weak, but—"

     "—it's because you're not from here," Yukimura said. "You weren't brought up to be able to make that decision easily."

     Thai lightly raised his brow in acknowledgment. "Fair," Thai said. But, it wasn't enough. Thai shook his head, only one thing formulating in his storm-of-a-mind. "Hey, Yukimura, can I ask you something—and don't say I already did."

     "Yeah. Sure.”

     Thai stayed silent, trying to figure out if it was the best question to ask, but he needed to know. "Is it easy for you to make that decision?" Thai asked finally.

     It was Yukimura's turn to fall silent, looking up at the ceiling of the training hall. He softly exhaled. "...I don't like it," Yukimura said. "But, if it's to protect my lord, my home, and my friends...I won't hesitate to take on a 100-man army. I would do anything to fight for every soul that looks up to me to protect and save them, even if it means making such a hard decision."

     Thai nodded but still felt uneasy. He knew people at their ages and younger were taught to fight, to war, and to kill because they had to. Martial arts came from war or survival, but during his training, both Modern and now, from Capoeira to Bujutsu, Thai always wondered how people came to accept that decision.      "Yeah...and, I guess it's still my job to protect you though, innit?" Thai said in resolve. "I may not be able to take on that decision any time soon, but I will still fight for you. You have my word."

     "I know," Yukimura smiled, patting Thai on the back. "And so far, you've already saved me twice. Not bad for a weirdo like you."

     "Hey now!" Thai couldn't help but gawk jokingly, yet annoyed. "I'm the weirdo? I ain't the one falling on my butt in the middle of the night."

     Yukimura pouted. "I'm not the one throwing kicks at people with guns and swords," he said. "Try doing that on someone in full armor."

     Thai giggled. "I already did when I saved yer sorry butt the first time!"

     Yukimura scoffed and hit Thai hard on the shoulder. The two laughed like kids, holding their stomachs. Thai wiped a tear on his cheek, not knowing or caring where it came from. Still, this was the Yukimura he came to know. It was relieving to see a familiar face that brought a light to the ever-present darkness of his situation. Then, probably out of the mixed feelings still keeping him on a loop, he thought of the weirdest idea.

     "Well," Thai said, looking around. "You took time out of your day to teach me when I was fumbling around, I suppose it's only fair I do the same."

     "Hm?" Yukimura asked.

     Thai looked at Yukimura and pointed it at the ground. "Fazes uma Meia Lua!" Thai ordered. "Agorra!"

     "Huh!?" Yukimura asked in shock. "You know I can't understand you! What?!"

     "I won't have it that my lord is shit at kicking," Thai said. "You want to do Capoeira while I'm here, then you're gonna do it right."

     "Really?" Yukimura grinned.

     "You up to it, my lord?" Thai asked with a cocky grin. "Capoeira's hard, and you don't look up to it, Saroba..."

     "Who're you calling 'Sa-ro-ba?' I don't even know what that means!" Yukimura said. "Fine, then! Let's do it!"

[daily-hyosatsu]

Today's name is 武田 Takeda, Taketa, Tageta, or Muta. This type of nameplate is an 浮き文字 ukimoji (literally "floating characters"). They always catch my eye, and I like the way they make you rethink the dimensionality and the shape dynamics of familiar kanji.

武 (take, bu, or mu) means warrior, military, chivalry, or arms. It's the bu in 武士道 bushidō (the samurai code of chivalry). It also happens to be the source of the hiragana む. The similarity might not be obvious at first, but once you feel it, it's really pleasing.

The character has two parts: the outer/top radical, 弋 means shoot or arrow, and on the bottom, 止 means stop (as in the verb 止まる・止める tomaru/tomeru). That makes for an easy mnemonic: stop + shoot = warrior.

Finally, 田 means rice paddy and can be read da or den. But you know that already!

[stronkkronk16]

Demon Slayer OC #2: The Masked Swordsman

Name: Shinji Takeda

Name Meaning: ~ Shinji: A combination of 真 (shin), meaning "True, Real, Genuine," and 司 (ji) meaning "Officer, Boss." Together, it could mean "True Leader." ~ Taketa: A combination of 武 (take), meaning "Martial, Military," and 田 (da), meaning "Field, Rice Paddy." Together, it could mean "Warrior's Field." ~ Combined: "True Leader in the Field" or "Genuine, Steadfast Warrior.'

Age: 16 (Final Selection)

Gender: Cis Male

Family: ~ Ryohei Takeda (Father, Alive) ~ Yuki Takeda (Mother, Alive) ~ Katsu Takeda (Older Brother, Alive) ~ Rei Ikari (Grandmother, Alive)

Love Interests: ~ Kanao Tsuyuri (Main LI) ~ Nezuko Kamado (Backup LI) ~ Your OC (If you want)

Religion: Buddhism

Known Languages: Japanese

Breathing Styles: Water Breathing (with his main sword, a wakizashi), Insect Breathing (with his offhand sword, a rapier)

Physical Description: Shinji stands at an average height of 5'7" (170 cm) with a lean, yet athletic, build from his rigorous training, highlighting his reliance of agility over raw strength. He has short, raven hair that often becomes tousled in the wind or in fights. He has a fair complexion, a balance between his time training in the sun and his time indoors helping out in his father's ramen shop. His kind, ocean-blue eyes have a habit of comforting those that get a chance to see them, and the corners of his mouth are wrinkled from smiling so often.

Outfit: Shinji wears the standard Demon Slayer uniform with the kanji for Destroy, 滅 (metsu), on the back. Over his uniform, he has incorporated parts of a samurai's armor into his outfit. On his head is a kasa, a circular straw hat. He also wears a mask depicting a stylized blue oni that covers his full face. During the Entertainment District, his mask is broken by Daki, leaving only the bottom half covering his face.

Weapons: ~ Primary Sword: Shinji's primary sword is a Nichirin Wakizashi. Being a wakizashi, it is fairly short, the blade being only 45 cm (~18 inches). The blade is dark blue to signify his use of Water Breathing. It also has a subtle ripple pattern along the blade, barely noticeable until it catches the light. Near the handle, the kanji 理想の自分 (Risō no Jibun), translating to "Ideal Self," are engraved into the blade in dark green writing. The guard is silver, accented with a dark blue wave pattern. The handle is a deep, oceanic blue and has a green wrapping, evoking the image of sea foam, ending with a cap with a water droplet engraved on it. To top it off, his sword has a dark blue sheath. ~ Secondary Sword: Shinji's offhand sword is a Nichirin Rapier. It is shorter than his wakizashi, the blade being on 94 cm (37 inches). The blade is lavender-blue to signify his use of Insect Breathing. It has a pattern along the blade that resembles butterfly wings. Near the guard, the kanji 慈 (ji), meaning "mercy," is engraved into the blade in yellow writing. The tip has a sharp, precise point meant to administer the poison. It has a silver cup guard adorned with lavender-blue wisteria flower designs. Inside the cup is where he inserts the vials of his poison for his blade tip to inject into his target. The silver crossguard extends horizontally and curves upward, ending in small, leaf-like designs. The knuckleguard extends smoothly from the crossguard, with the shape of a delicate vine curling around the pommel. The lavender-blue grip is wrapped in a dark green cloth. The pommel is a small, lavender-blue orb with a wisteria flower pattern.

Personality: If you were to describe Shinji in a single word, you'd probably choose "kind." In another? "Respectful." To a fault. Shinji's dream has always been to simply help in any way he can. Some would call him naive or soft, but he's just empathetic, even if some people receiving his empathy are arguably undeserving of it. Shinji is the type of guy to give you the shirt off his back if you ask for it, always making sure those around him are okay before he even thinks about indulging himself. And he's respectful to everyone he comes across, whether human or demon, a fact that confuses and frustrates many of his comrades.

Backstory: Shinji was born the second son of Ryohei and Yuki Takeda, seven years younger than his brother, Katsu. While Katsu was spirited and restless, eager to explore and test his strength, Shinji grew up in a gentler world, one filled with warmth and simplicity. His parents taught him to be kind and respectful, values instilled in him not just in words but in the life they led every day at the family ramen shop. The shop's doors were always open to travelers, villagers, and even the less fortunate, and Shinji grew up watching his parents treat each customer with patience and understanding. The teachings of compassion and respect shaped him deeply, giving him a natural empathy that softened his presence.

When Shinji was still young, he began hearing whispers about the demon slayers, warriors who stood against creatures of darkness to protect humanity. To him, they were almost mythical, figures of bravery he could scarcely imagine. Katsu shared some stories when he could, though he was often vague, perhaps to shield his younger brother from fear. Shinji grew up with admiration for the demon slayers, but also a quiet respect for the fear that accompanied their dangerous lives.

As he got older, Shinji spent his days helping at the ramen shop, mastering small tasks and carrying bowls to guests with quiet pride. His parents spoke of discipline and dedication as sacred qualities, whether one was slicing noodles or, as Shinji would later learn, wielding a blade. When Katsu departed for his own journey to become a demon slayer, Shinji was on the verge of adolescence. Though his heart ached at the thought of his brother facing such risks, he took Katsu’s departure as inspiration. He decided that he, too, would prepare himself for a path of purpose and selflessness.

Shinji took up sword training shortly after, feeling the weight of steel as more than just a weapon but as a promise—a way to protect and serve. His progress was steady, and soon after Katsu went to Final Selection, Shinji had his first experience facing a demon. His weapon was Shinobu’s poison, a tool given to him by a mentor who recognized his quiet diligence. The encounter was brutal and unforgiving, yet it awakened something profound within him. The demon’s destruction was a victory, but he couldn’t shake the thought of the suffering involved—for both the demon and anyone affected by their attacks. This drove Shinji to study medicine, learning from any healer who would share their knowledge, hoping he could one day reduce the pain his poisons inflicted.

His experiments with anesthetics became an almost spiritual practice, an expression of his commitment to his parents' teachings. Yet, despite his quiet nature and focus on mercy, Shinji’s resolve only grew stronger. He refused to let any demon harm his loved ones or the people he’d sworn to protect.

The ultimate test of his resolve came when a band of demons descended upon his village. Shinji, barely more than a novice, stood in their path. He was alone, a single swordsman defending countless innocent lives, yet he held firm, fending off the attack with every ounce of skill he possessed. When the battle was over, and the quiet returned to the streets, he found his parents safe, their shop untouched. Relief filled him, and he realized he had been waiting for this moment—not to prove his strength but to feel that he was truly able to protect.

When Mitsuri Kanroji, the nearest Hashira, arrived soon after, she observed his work with admiration. She praised his technique and recognized the quiet skill and determination he displayed. Smiling, she placed a hand on his shoulder and told him he was ready—that he had earned the chance to prove himself at Final Selection. For Shinji, her words felt like an affirmation of all the beliefs he held dear, a validation of his compassion, courage, and readiness to step into the world of the demon slayers.

Other Info

~ His family's ramen shop was popular among the Hashiras and they would always make a habit of visiting for a meal whenever they were in the village, especially Kanroji and Rengoku.

~ Shinji's family has always been deeply involved in the Demon Slayer Corps. His father was a demon slayer who used Wind Breathing, his mother was a demon slayer who used Thunder Breathing, and his maternal grandmother is a former Hashira.

~ The first time Shinji killed a demon with Shinobu Kocho's wisteria poison, he broke down in tears when he saw how painful it was for the demon, crying and apologizing. This startled and confused Shinobu and Kanao, and was also the catalyst for his decision to study medicine so he could modify the poison to be less painful.

~ While Shinji grew up, he became quite skilled at painting, and he would often paint portraits that depicted a lone warrior in samurai armor and a kasa: a brave man with the strength to protect the innocent, Shinji's ideal self. When he became a demon slayer, he modeled his appearance after this ideal self.

~ Shinji hardly ever takes off his oni mask. Aside from his family, the only people who have seen it are Aoi, Kiyo, Naho, and Sumi when they would treat his wounds at the Butterfly Mansion.

Creator Note: I promise that dual-wielding swords and the integration of samurai armor is not going to be a running theme, Shinji is the last one with samurai armor, and Katsu technically doesn't dual-wield his multiple swords. You'll see what I mean when I get around to posting him.

[vasco-portable-translators]

Top interesting facts about Japan

Welcome to the land of sushi, samurais, and sumo! Japan, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. Think you know all about Japan or Japanese people? Think again! From quirky cultural practices to jaw-dropping landmarks, there's always something new to discover. So, let's see what are some interesting facts about Japan that will make you want to pack your bags and say "Konnichiwa!" (the Japanese word for "hello"). Curious facts about Japan: General take As we dive deeper into cool things about Japan, let's fact-check some of the most common beliefs. - ~4,000 Islands: Japan consists of more than just four main islands. There are thousands more to explore, each with its own unique beauty and culture. No wonder it's called "an island nation". - Cherry Blossoms: Wondering when do cherry blossoms bloom in Japan? Late March to early April is sakura season, turning the country into a pink paradise. Perfect for "hanami" (flower viewing) parties! - Samurai and Shoguns: These fierce warriors uphold a strict code of honor known as "bushido." Their legacy still influences everything, from martial arts to modern media. - Noodle Slurping: In Japan, slurping your noodles isn’t rude—it’s encouraged! It shows you’re enjoying your meal. So, slurp away! FAQ: What are the most interesting facts about Japan? Japan is known to be a country of 6,800 islands. It's also popular for its cherry blossoms in spring and Mount Fuji. It's also a country with a surprisingly high number of vending machines. Why is Mount Fuji important to Japanese culture? It's a center of spiritual practices & an important asset to their cultural heritage. A lot of Buddhists make their way there to practice meditation. When is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan? Cherry blossoms ("sakura") are typically in bloom between March and April. This is the best period for traveling if you wish to see them. What happened during Japan's isolation period? During the isolation period ("Edo"), Japan banned trade and cultural exchange with the whole world, with small exceptions for the Netherlands, Korea, and China. Despite that, it was a period of rich art & cultural development. Which Japanese festivals should I visit? Must-go festivals include Gion Matsuri, Sapporo Snow Festival, and the Obon festivals. Interesting historical facts about Japan Japan’s history is a treasure trove of fascinating tales and pivotal moments. Let’s take a quick tour through some of the most significant periods: - Ancient Origins: Japan’s early civilization dates back thousands of years. Think Jomon pottery and Yayoi rice paddies. - Samurai and Shogun Era: The time of the samurais, who were more than just warriors—they were also the backbone of Japanese culture. Their code of honor, known as bushido, still influences many aspects of Japanese life today. - The Isolation Period (Edo Period): From the early 17th to mid-19th century, Japan entered a period of isolation under the Tokugawa Shogunate. This era, also known as the Edo period, was characterized by strict social order and limited foreign interaction. Here’s what made it unique: - Sakoku Policy: The Sakoku policy restricted foreign relations and trade, except with the Dutch, Chinese, and Koreans, who were confined to specific ports. - Cultural Flourishing: Despite isolation, this period saw a blossoming of arts, literature, and culture. Ukiyo-e woodblock prints, kabuki theater, and haiku poetry became quintessentially Japanese, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the time. - Meiji Restoration: This period transformed Japan from a feudal society into a modern industrial power. It’s like watching a country go through a major glow-up! The Meiji Restoration began in 1868, ending centuries of shogunate rule and restoring imperial power under Emperor Meiji. - World War II and Post-War Recovery: Japan’s resilience and rapid recovery post-WWII is nothing short of miraculous. From the ashes of defeat, Japan emerged as a global economic powerhouse, with advancements in technology and industry that continue to shape the modern world. These periods have shaped Japan into the unique and vibrant country it is today. The blend of old and new is what makes Japan so intriguing to explore! Geographical wonders Japan’s geography is as diverse as it is stunning. From towering mountains to serene beaches, this country in East Asia has something for everyone. Mount Fuji An iconic symbol of Japan, Mount Fuji is not just a "pretty face". It’s also a cultural and spiritual beacon. Here's why: - Spiritual Significance: Mount Fuji has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries. Shintoists and Buddhists alike consider it sacred, and it’s believed to be the home of Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji and all volcanoes. You can find wonderful Buddhist temples here, and more. - Cultural Influence: The mountain’s majestic presence has inspired countless works of art, literature, and poetry. - Pilgrimage and Rituals: Every year, thousands of pilgrims climb Mount Fuji during the official climbing season (July to September). The ascent is often a spiritual journey, with climbers stopping at various shrines and torii gates along the way. - UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized as a cultural site, Mount Fuji's status underscores its importance in Japanese history and culture, attracting visitors from around the globe who seek both rich cultural heritage and spiritual enlightenment. Volcanic activity Japan’s volcanic activity has created a landscape dotted with hot springs (onsen). Perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring. Climate zones Japan’s climate ranges from Hokkaido’s snowy winters to Okinawa’s tropical paradise. Pack accordingly! Islands and coastlines Japan’s islands offer diverse experiences, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil beaches of Okinawa. - Rabbit Island: Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island, is famous for its friendly, free-roaming rabbits. This island offers a unique and adorable experience for animal lovers, with hundreds of bunnies eager to greet visitors. Japanese gardens Japanese gardens are serene oases that blend natural beauty with meticulous design. Featuring elements like water, rocks, and pruned trees, these gardens symbolize harmony and tranquility. Each component has symbolic meaning, with ponds representing oceans and stones symbolizing mountains. Whether in a zen garden in Kyoto or enjoying blooms at Tokyo's Rikugien, each Japanese garden offers a peaceful retreat into nature's artistry. Interesting Japanese traditions Japan is a land of fascinating traditions and quirky customs. Let’s see what are some most interesting facts about Japanese culture: - Tea Ceremony: The Japanese tea ceremony, or "chanoyu," is more than just drinking tea. It’s a choreographed ritual of preparation and presentation. Every movement, every gesture is performed with grace and precision. It’s all about harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. - Festivals (Matsuri): Japan loves its festivals! From the boisterous Gion Matsuri in Kyoto to the snowy Sapporo Snow Festival, there’s always something to celebrate. Each festival has its own unique history and set of customs, making them a fun and educational experience. - Etiquette and Manners: Japanese etiquette might seem strict, but it’s rooted in respect for others. For example, always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice—it resembles a funeral ritual! - Pop Culture Influence: Japan is the birthplace of anime and manga, which have taken the world by storm. From Studio Ghibli’s enchanting films to popular series like "Naruto" and "Attack on Titan," Japanese pop culture has a massive global following. - Japanese New Year Traditions: New Year’s (Shogatsu) is the most important holiday in Japan. It’s a time for family gatherings, special foods like osechi-ryori, and traditional games. Many visit shrines for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, to pray for good fortune. If you would like to know about more curious facts about Japan, check out our article on weird Christmas traditions. There's one part where we talk about Japanese culture as well! Technological marvels Japan is a leader in technological innovation. Here are some of the coolest things about Japan in the tech world: - Advanced Public Transportation: The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is famous for its speed and punctuality. It’s a marvel of engineering that makes traveling across Japan a breeze. It's also the reason why Japanese trains are known in the whole world. - Cutting-Edge Innovations: Japan is at the forefront of robotics and automation. From robots that assist in daily chores to high-tech toilets with more functions than your smartphone, the future is now in Japan. - Sustainable Practices: Japan is also a pioneer in sustainability: it's making strides in renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly technologies. Tokyo’s Olympic Stadium, for example, was built with sustainability in mind. Culinary Delights Japanese cuisine is a feast for the senses. Here are some facts about Japanese culture through its food: - Regional Specialties: Each region in Japan has its own culinary specialties. In Hokkaido, savor fresh seafood like crab and sea urchin. In Osaka, indulge in street food favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). - Street Food: Don’t miss the vibrant street food scene! Enjoy yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste), and much more. These tasty treats are perfect for eating on the go. - Traditional Dining Experiences: For a truly authentic experience, try a kaiseki meal, which is a multi-course dinner that showcases seasonal ingredients. Dining at an izakaya (Japanese pub) is also a great way to experience local culture and cuisine. Unique Attractions Japan is full of unique attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some unusual facts about Japan you shouldn’t miss: - Temples and Shrines: Must-visit spiritual sites include Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, and Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest temple. - Modern Architecture: Marvel at the futuristic Tokyo Tower, the innovative Kyoto Station, and the mesmerizing TeamLab Borderless digital art museum. - Natural Wonders: Japan’s natural beauty is breathtaking. Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, and relax in the coastal beauty of the Izu Peninsula. - Quirky Museums and Parks: Explore the Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama, the Ramen Museum in Osaka, and the whimsical Studio Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. - Vending Machines: Japan is the only country with such a high density of vending machines in the world. A Japanese vending machine offers everything from drinks and snacks to umbrellas and fresh flowers. They are a testament to the country's love for convenience and innovation. Practical Tips for Travelers Traveling in Japan is a breeze with a few handy tips: - Navigating Transportation: The JR Pass is a must for unlimited travel on JR trains. Mastering the metro systems and renting bikes are also great ways to get around. - Language Barriers: Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way. Phrases like "Arigato" (Thank you) and "Sumimasen" (Excuse me) are essential. - Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs. Bowing is a common greeting, and being quiet on public transportation is appreciated. - Technology Tips: Useful apps like Google Maps, Hyperdia for train schedules, and translation devices can make your travel smoother. Enhance Your Trip with Vasco Translator Traveling to the country of cherry blossoms can be challenging if you don’t speak the Japanese language. But not with Vasco Translator. - What It Is: Vasco Translator is a state-of-the-art AI translator that helps you communicate effortlessly in multiple languages. - Benefits in Japan: Overcome language barriers, ask for directions, order food, and engage with locals confidently. Vasco voice translator is your travel companion for a hassle-free experience. - Why Vasco? This smart translator comes with an in-built SIM card. It basically means you can get online translation anywhere in the world with GSM access. It's free and works forever for all translation apps on the device. Conclusion From ancient traditions to futuristic innovations, Japan is a land of endless discoveries. Whether you're marveling at cherry blossoms, exploring historical landmarks, or enjoying culinary delights, there's always something new and exciting around every corner. Don’t forget to bring along your Vasco Translator to make the most of your journey. Happy travels! Nutshell Japan, where tradition meets modernity, offers a treasure trove of experiences. From the spiritual allure of Mount Fuji to the serene beauty of Japanese gardens, nature's artistry abounds. Discover the rich history of samurais and shoguns, the isolation period, and the rapid transformation during the Meiji Restoration. Marvel at advanced technology like the Shinkansen and explore quirky aspects like vending machines and Rabbit Island. Indulge in regional culinary delights, participate in vibrant festivals, and embrace the intricate tea ceremony. Don't miss the cherry blossoms in spring or the unique Japanese New Year traditions. Enhance your travel with the Vasco Translator for a seamless, enriching experience. Japan is a land of endless discoveries, waiting to enchant you! Read the full article

[casbooks]

Book 41 of 2024 (★★★★)

Title: Super Slick: Life and Death in a Huey Helicopter in Vietnam Authors: Tom Feigel & Larry Weill

ISBN: 9780811775663 Rating: ★★★★ Subject: Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.ARVN, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.Aviation.US Army.Helos.Slicks, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.Specops.ARVN, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.Specops.Green Berets, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.Specops.Seals, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.US Army.Advisor

Description: Helicopters loom large in how we picture the Vietnam War. Kilgore’s birds coming in hot (and Wagnerian) out of the rising sun in Apocalypse Now. The infantry/helicopter assault at Ia Drang in the climax of We Were Soldiers. A chopper flying over green rice paddies, with a teenaged door gunner manning a .50-cal. A slick dropping into an LZ whirling with purple smoke. We can only imagine it. Tom Feigel lived it, as a twenty-year-old crew chief in a Huey. Super Slick is the story of his year in Vietnam. Tom Feigel grew up a typical post-World War II kid who wrestled in high school, had a steady girl, and loved working on cars—and then everything changed. Less than a year out of high school, he was drafted into the army and assigned to aviation, ultimately to helicopters. In Vietnam in 1970, he first worked as a “hangar rat,” part of the ground crew responsible for maintaining the company's thirty Hueys—the Warriors and Thunderbirds—of the 336th Assault Helicopter Company, which operated in southern South Vietnam, in the Mekong Delta and U Minh Forest. In short order, Feigel volunteered for a flight mission to replace the rotors of a damaged chopper—which led to his becoming a crew chief on a transport slick called Warrior 21. Before long, he and 21's crew asked the company commander for permission to re-outfit their ship for thicker, more dangerous missions—and they ended up flying an up-gunned helicopter call sign Super Slick , tasked with similar missions but into more dangerous zones. Feigel’s memoir recounts the thick and thin of helicopter combat in Vietnam. Heart-pumping missions into hot landing zones (sometimes inserting and extracting Navy SEALs). Adrenaline-fueled flights into enemy-infested jungles and free-fire zones. Low-level reconnaissance. “Hash and trash” runs to deliver supplies to far-flung units. Terrifying nighttime operations where trees posed nearly as much danger as the enemy. Razor-thin margins between life and death. It was dangerous; it was thrilling. The crews loved it; the crews hated it. They were proud of it. And they never wanted to do it again. Super Slick is as close as you can get to being inside a Huey—to hearing the radio chatter, feeling the thrum of the rotors, the pounding of the door guns.

My Review:

Let me start this review by saying that this book has a LOT of really good stuff in it for the Vietnam War historian, and those interested in the conflict. From his time at Soc Trang, to his experiences with the Navy SEALs and spending time aboard Sea Float, working with the ARVN and the LLDB's, and especially about the nightitme perimeter defense firefly mission.

The author was a Crew Chief of a Huey slick that was a little different than most. While he did the usual insertion/combat assault of ARVN troops into the Mekong Delta, he also inserted and supported Navy SEALs, as well as a distant LLDB outpost with a single US Special Forces advisor. Later, his helicopter takes over the firefly night mission mounting a xenon spotlight and night vision device on board, along with a mini-gun and a 50 cal machine gun in opposite doors. Flying as a crew of 5 (Spotlight operator, 2 door gunners, pilot and co-pilot), they had a very unique mission around Soc Trang. His stories about their missions, their fellow crews, and the unit are like few others told and it's really a must read.

I would have loved to have heard more about his duties as a crew chief, beyond just saying that after they landed, he had to do the routine maintenance… ok… what is that? what’s that involve? what’s that like? what did you actually do??? But you do get a great feeling for the type of flying they did, and the collection of stories presented does give a really good impression of his tour of duty.

And that's what this book is, it's a collection of stories told by Feigel to Weill who polished them up and created the book out of them. The writing is good, the stories are really good, but it's a lot like sitting down with someone and letting them tell you tales over a few beers across a period of time, instead of a single narrative style book. Sometimes that means you're left scratching your head and asking “why are we talking about this here? what about the other thing you mentioned? are we ever going to talk about the other pilot that you keep saying you flew with a lot??” The answer is no. We don’t get to hear any stories about him at all.

The stories you do get, and especially the stuff post-Vietnam where you learn about the fate of the Helicopter and the efforts to award someone their missing purple heart are incredible additions that give the whole story a more filled out ending. I'm reluctant to only give this book 4 stars, because it really is closer to 5, but too often I was left scratching my head asking those questions and left waiting for the stories that were alluded to but not actually included, like of the 2nd aircraft commander's time with the crew.

All in all, a good read!

[chloeunit6]

Japan Rice Fields:

Rice has been an integral component of Japan's culture and history for over 2,000 years. As a result, there are few better ways to see ancient Japan than by touring its rice terraces, fields, and paddies (known as 'Tanada'). Visiting places like Shiroyone Senmaida, which has 1,000 fields of rice running down to the sea, or the stunning Hoshitoge no Tanada is incredibly breathtaking and seems like stepping back in time to ancient, mediaeval Japan. Shiroyone Senmaida and Hoshitoge no Tanada aren't the only attractions to see. There are some beautiful lesser-known fields, terraces, and paddies to find all around Japan.

Rice has been grown in Japan for over 2,000 years and is vital to the country's culture, identity, history, economics, religion, and, of course, food. Interestingly, while you would believe that rice has always been consumed throughout the country, it was formerly restricted for the warrior classes. In ancient times, rice was paid as a levy to soldiers and noblemen, while peasants ate barley and millet. Rice production grew increasingly profitable and successful for the working classes during the Edo Period, and farmers began to include rice in their own meals, but it was not until the twentieth century that rice became a genuine staple in practically every Japanese person's diet.

Despite its ubiquitous availability now, rice is still essential and treasured in Japanese culture, possibly due to its past rarity, high value, and relationship with aristocracy, warrior classes, and spirits. Rice is very important in Japan since it is used in both Shinto and Buddhist ceremonies and religious celebrations. In Buddhist houses, Japanese people sprinkle grains of rice on a saucer after a meal and set it on an altar to thank their ancestors. Buddhist monks eat rice for breakfast, too. In Shintoism, rice seedlings are said to be the home of spirits (kami) who must be worshipped in order for a bountiful harvest. This has resulted in several Shinto harvest celebrations and customs, like Osaka's Otaue Rice Planting Festival. The phrases 'tanada' and'senmaida' are commonly used to describe rice fields. Tanada means 'terraced paddies', but Senmaida means 'a thousand terraced paddies'. Rice is always planted in the spring or early summer, and harvested in the autumn. Japanese rice is a round grain type with two general and unique varieties: koshihikari and sasanishiki, which are planted and cultivated in various locations of Japan. Sushi is made from the longer grain type.

Japan’s Most Beautiful Rice Fields

Shiroyone Senmaida Famous for its 1,000 rice field terraces that descend to the sea, Shiroyone Senmaida is an incredibly beautiful and picturesque spot to behold, and location to explore. Shiroyone Senmaida was awarded a special status by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for being a place of such scenic beauty. Between April and July, you can see beautiful sunsets, green fields, and stunning reflections in the sea and flooded paddies. In autumn, it is known for its amazing golden colours. And at night, the terraces are illuminated by 21,000 LED lights. The wider area is known for being excellent for walking, hiking and cycling too. Like many of Japan’s stunning rice field terraces, Shiroyone Senmaida attracts huge numbers of photographers.

Hoshitoge Rice Terraces Located in Niigata Prefecture, Hoshitoge no Tanada is regarded as one of Japan’s most beautiful villages and rice terraces. It’s fields, featuring more than 200 terraces, are arguably the prettiest in all of Japan, especially when the mist rolls in over the water-filled paddies in Autumn.

Hamanoura Senmaida Overlooking the ocean, you’ll find these stunning rice fields in Saga Prefecture. They say the best time to visit Hamanoura Senmaida is at sunset when the rice fields, terraces and paddies are tinted with a golden orange glow as the sun goes down over the ocean

Oyama Senmaida One of the many reasons to recommend Oyama Senmaida is because of its proximity to Tokyo. It is the closest to the capital so if you’re visiting Tokyo and you don’t have time to venture around the whole country, this could be the rice field terrace to see first-hand. It’s also undeniably beautiful especially when the terraces fill up with rainwater during the Tsuyu (plum rain) season.

Maruyama Senmaida A picturesque and majestic rice field terrace set on a 160km slope, Maruyama Senmaida features views of seven hectares of land. It is considered to have one of the best views of all Japan’s rice terraces (as seen in our main banner image) because of its steep incline. In the summer months at night, you can also see fireflies dancing over the fields. A stunning sight! Fireflies symbolise summer in Japan and there are several festivals and events to celebrate them. If you’re intrigued, you could try Fussa Firefly Festival at Fussa City, which is on the outer edge of Tokyo. There are stalls selling food and drink, special events and activities, and most importantly more than 500 fireflies flying around overhead.

Havard referencing:

[navira-mga2024mi5014]

More research

Influences on regular people during the Kamakura period

The Kamakura period in Japan (1185-1333) marked a significant shift in political and social structures. During this time, the rise of the samurai class and the establishment of the Kamakura Shogunate had profound influences on both the aristocracy and the general populace. Here are some key influences on regular people and their homes during the Kamakura period:

Samurai Dominance:The Kamakura Shogunate, established by Minamoto no Yoritomo, marked the ascendancy of the samurai class to political power. The samurai were warriors who served the shogun and held significant influence in society. Samurai often resided in fortified compounds and were granted lands in exchange for military service. This change in the power structure had a trickle-down effect on the daily lives of common people.

Feudal System:The Kamakura period saw the solidification of the feudal system, with a hierarchical structure comprising the emperor, shogun, daimyo (feudal lords), and the peasantry. Commoners worked the land and provided agricultural produce in exchange for protection from their samurai overlords. Villages were organized around the manor of the local daimyo, and the layout of homes reflected this hierarchical social structure.

Buddhism and Shinto Syncretism:The Kamakura period saw the emergence of new Buddhist sects, such as Pure Land and Zen Buddhism, which gained popularity among both the samurai and commoners. The syncretism of Buddhist and Shinto beliefs influenced religious practices at the local level. Commoners often had small household shrines and engaged in rituals that blended both traditions.

Rural and Urban Distinctions:Rural areas were characterized by agricultural communities, and commoners in these regions lived in simple thatched-roof houses made of wood and woven bamboo. Villages were often centered around rice paddies and fields. Urban areas, while smaller than modern cities, saw the emergence of marketplaces, artisan workshops, and merchant districts. Homes in towns and cities might have had more durable materials, reflecting a slightly higher economic status.

Decline of Aristocratic Influence:With the rise of the samurai, the influence of the aristocracy declined. The Kamakura Shogunate shifted the political and cultural focus away from the court in Kyoto, redirecting power to the military class. Commoners, while still subject to the authority of their local samurai lords, experienced a shift in the cultural and social landscape that was less centered around courtly traditions.

Influence of Zen Aesthetics:Zen Buddhism, with its emphasis on simplicity and direct experience, had a notable impact on various aspects of life, including architecture, tea ceremony, and the arts. The aesthetic ideals of wabi-sabi, appreciating imperfections and transience, became influential. These Zen-influenced aesthetics could be seen in the design of homes, gardens, and everyday objects, emphasizing a connection with nature and a minimalist approach.

Military Architecture:The architecture of the Kamakura period reflected the military nature of the time. Samurai residences and castles were designed with defensive features, such as moats, walls, and watchtowers. The layout of homes in rural areas also incorporated defensive elements, reflecting the need for protection in an era marked by political instability and conflict.

[keeganhogan]

The Seven Samurai

Kurosawa Akira’s The Seven Samurai is a grandiose epic that details the camaraderie of the samurai and their extensive, draining battle against the bandits to save the village. I found this movie much more representative of Kurosawa’s western influences, as he incorporates a lot of aspects from American western movies. Wide landscape shots, the bonds between the soldiers, and brining the law to a lawless hellscape are all tropes found in classic western movies that exist here in The Seven Samurai. We also see once more Kurosawa’s trademark of shooting in intense weather, with heavy rainstorm creating a muddy battlefield at the end. We have seen scenes of rain like this in No Regrets For Our Youth, when Yukie is slaving out in the rice paddies, and also in Rashomon as the three men sit beneath the gate to escape it. In The Seven Samurai, the intense storm enhances the feeling of grit, gore, and trudge that characterizes the final battle. The spectacle of the battle scenes in this movie to such a grand scale is something that I doubt had been done often or at all to this level back then, and is a large reason why this movie is heralded. 

I found the use of more modern forms of warfare, like the muskets, interesting in this movie. All four of the samurai who die in this movie die to musket shots, perhaps to show that the way of the samurai is becoming outdated, and fighting with “honor” is ineffective in the modern age. The ending of the movie also ties into this point, as Kambei says that the victory was for the villagers and not for them. For a warrior like a samurai, survival and victory are almost another kind of death, as you no longer have reason to fight. Maybe this is why the graves of the deceased samurai are placed so much higher than the ones who survived in the photo above. They died a true warrior’s death, even if it was to the advances in warfare technology, while the surviving samurai have to deal not only with the fact that their purpose is now thrown into doubt, but also with the fact that the way of the samurai is clearly coming to its end in history. The beginning section of the film shows the plethora of samurai in the town that the villagers are in to recruit samurai, and we watch as Kambei builds their team of seven to defend the village. We see the values of the samurai expressed in various ways in each character as they come together to go into battle as the honorable warriors they are. By the end of the movie though, we are left with only three. The older Kambei who is at the end of his career as a samurai, unable to go out in battle like a samurai might aspire to do, the young Katsushiro, who seems to be more a boy who fell in love and would rather spend his life with Shino then spend his life as a samurai, and Shichiroji, who we only really see fighting with the bamboo spear with the villagers than with his katana like the others. The more traditional samurai that we see all go out in battle, even the unique and unpredictable Kikuchiyo.

[atlaculture]

ATLA Culture Index: Cultural Anatomy

This was time-consuming but worth it.

Water Tribe

Northern Water Tribe

Betrothal Necklaces

Yue’s Hair

Yue’s Gown

Arnook’s Jewelry

NWT Hats

NWT Accessories

Avatar Kuruk’s Design

Southern Water Tribe

Hair Loopies

Sokka’s Choker

Sokka’s Water Tribe Weapons

Southern Water Tribe Jackets

Katara & Sokka’s Shoes

Katara & Sokka’s Book 1 Robes

Sokka’s Book 2 Robe

Katara’s Book 2 Robe

Water Tribe Undergarments

Water Tribe Boats Pt. 1

Water Tribe Boats Pt. 2

Earth Kingdom

Kyoshi Island

Kyoshi Headbands

Kyoshi Makeup

Kyoshi’s Hair & Clothes

Kyoshi Warrior Uniforms

Kyoshi Warrior Weapons

Kyoshi Warrior Martial Arts

Kyoshi Islanders Fashion Pt. 1

Kyoshi Islanders Fashion Pt. 2

Ba Sing Se

Zuko’s Teashop Clothes

Dai Li Hair Ribbon

Toph’s EK Looks (cause she’s that special)

Toph’s Headband

Toph’s Hairstyle

Toph’s Fancy Dress

Toph’s Sleepwear

The Rest of the Earth Kingdom

EK Top Knots

The Nomads: Chong

The Nomads: Lily

Aunt Wu’s Headdress

Swampbender Architecture

EK Rice Paddy Village

Bumi’s Outfit

The Sandbenders

Cabbage Merchant’s Headwrap

Cabbage Merchant’s Vest

Earth Kingdom Nuns

Fire Nation

Zuko’s FN Looks (cause he’s that special)

Zuko’s Book 1 Hair

Blue Spirit Mask

Agni Kai Armbands

Zuko’s Cloak

Zuko’s Broadswords

The Gaang’s FN Looks

FN School Uniforms

Katara’s FN Top

Sokka’s FN Top

Sokka’s Sword

Toph’s FN Top

Fisherman Pants

Ember Island

Ember Island Fashion Pt. 1 (Azula)

Ember Island Fashion Pt. 2 (Zuko)

Kuai Ball

The Rest of the Fire Nation

FN Top Knots

FN Shoulder Pieces

FN Tiaras

FN Skirts

Mai’s Outfit

Mai’s Hair

Religious Hats

Wedding Dresses

Sun Warrior Pants

FN Visual Motif

FN Currency

Jang Hui Village

Ty Lee’s Fighting Style

Air Nomads

Avatar Relics

Religious Hats

AN Necklaces

AN Architecture Pt. 1

AN Architecture Pt. 2

AN Architecture Pt. 3

All Nations

Armbands and Bandages

Like what I’m doing? Tips always appreciated, never expected. ^_^

https://ko-fi.com/atlaculture

[demonslayedher]

Yoshiwara in the Taishō Period

A translation of the section about historical Yoshiwara, Tokyo's pleasure quarters, as written in "A Taisho Period Handbook To Get Even More Fun Out Of Kimetsu no Yaiba," published April 25, 2020, by the Taishō Haikara Dōjinkai and Tatsumi Publishing (not an official Shūeisha publication). I've added additional notes and resources throughout, indicated by small text. While it does not go into details any worse than presented in KnY's canon, tw for prostitution and mentions of disease. SPOILERS for all of KnY's Yūkaku-hen/ Demon Slayer's Pleasure District Arc.

What sort of place was Yoshiwara, which has been a setting in so many period dramas?

The arc about Upper Moon Six, Daki and Gyūtarō, was set in the Yoshiwara Pleasure Quarters. The glittering townscape and its oiran (courtesans) and yūjo* (prostitutes), a particularly sexy demon, and even three kunoichi (female ninja) make appearances, so that makes this arc the one most dolled up and with florid eye candy. *Unless stated otherwise in context, every use of “prostitute” in this translation is originally yūjo. Literally, "to play" and "woman."

The Yoshiwara Pleasure Quarters appear so frequently in period dramas that most people probably have a vague image of it, but in order to more deeply understand Daki and Gyūtarō, it’s crucial to more deeply understand Yoshiwara too.

Yoshiwara was opened right around the beginning of the Edo Period, in 1618. At the time, there were many back-alley whore houses operating throughout Edo without permission, and Yoshiwara was what happened when they gathered all those prostitutes into one place and granted them permission to operate only during daylight hours.

Yoshiwara was the only place where one could brazenly go out to play, so it also grew into a social spot where daimyō (feudal lords), wealthy merchants, and other people of note could mingle. The area prided itself on having the finest food, clothes, and buildings, so not only was it on the forefront of fashion, but it was also a major cultural center.

It was first allotted the wetlands of the Fukiya district in the Nihonbashi area, but as the outskirts of town started to develop, this pushed the pleasure quarters closer and closer to the new center of town. The Bakufu* government foresaw this as an issue and they used the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657 as a reason to rebuild it in a corner of the rice fields behind Asakusa Temple.** To compensate for the more inconvenient location, it was allowed to conduct business during both daytime and nighttime hours. With the new permission for nighttime services in Shin-Yoshiwara (New Yoshiwara), this changed the main clientele from the warrior class to the common townsfolk, and popular culture for the masses began to flourish there.

*Tokugawa Shogunate **Yoshiwara was basically right around modern day Sensōji Temple, a major tourism site in Asakusa (so Tanjirō wound up back in the same area where he encountered Muzan). By the Taishō Period, Yoshiwara was far from the only attraction in Tokyo's premiere entertainment district; this was even the site of Japan's oldest (and still operating!) amusement park, Hanayashiki. This page (in Japanese) has photos and maps of what the area looks like today.

The was a rank for everything in Yoshiwara, creating a society of disparity

Shin-Yoshiwara was in a rural area, surrounded by rice paddies. In the fenced-off area of about 20,000 tsubo (roughly 66,200 square meters), if you included everyone associated with the girō (brothels) to the normal merchants and laborers, it was home to about 10,000 people.

The only way in or out of Yoshiwara was through the Ōmon (front gate*). With the exception of doctors, no one could ride in on a covered palanquin; even daimyō had to get out and walk with their identity exposed when passing through the gate. Immediately upon entering, to the left there was a building called the Menbanjo where the town magistrate oversaw local matters and kept an eye out for wanted persons or suspicious people leaving or entering. To the right was a little building called the Yoshiwara-kaijo* where people kept an eye out for women trying to leave through the gate. Men were generally allowed to freely come and go as they pleased without being asked their business, but women needed to present a pass prepared by their chaya (tea house/brothel***). Of course, this was to prevent prostitutes from running away. *More literally “Big Gate,” but I’ve taken the translation used on English postcards **Also called Shirobē-kaijo ***While modern day Geisha/Geiko & Maiko still work through establishments called chaya, their work is not to be confused with prostitution. While there are similarities in how these women were entertainers skilled in the arts, and what services they may or may not make available to patrons, you’re doing a service to modern day Geisha by recognizing them as willful and respected artisans.

After passing through the Ōmon, you’d be in the Naka-no-Chō, that is, a big street that split the pleasure quarters into two halves on its left and right. Rather than “Chō” (town) it was a street or fairground,* so it didn’t have any buildings of its own.

*This is where the Oiran would go on parade, like we witness Koinatsu-oiran doing in Episode 2/Chapter 71, and needing the support of a male’s shoulder as she walked in shoes of that height is accurate. This parade was called “Oiran-dōchū,” which some nerds may recognize from the lyrics of Hatsune Miku’s “Senbonzakura.” Interesting how Daki might have only gotten away with doing this after dark.

To either side of that main street there were lines of intermediary chaya who brought the girō and customers together,* and if you went into the alleys between those, you’d find girō both large and small all lined up with harimise, rooms with slatted windows, behind which sat the prostitutes, awaiting their customers. Tanjiro and the other Corp members engaged the demons in battle among these alleys, for as you can see in the backgrounds of the original source material, there are the slatted windows of harimise.**

*These places essentially functioned as tourism information booths. There were also magazines and guidebooks about the different brothels and their popular girls, similar to magazines about pop idols nowadays, who likewise are often tied to their company’s image. The guy who got punched in the face by Inoko was carrying one of these. **While this was a classic element of girō when done in a very large fashion akin to a prison cell, smaller version with protruding, slatted windows are a design element in a lot of traditional Japanese buildings (which can be used for either privacy or as a shop window), and people won’t be pleased if you mistake their home for a brothel.

There were about 200 girō of various sizes all crammed together throughout Yoshiwara. They were defined as ōmise (large), nakamise (middle), and komise (small), and this not only functioned as a size distinction, but also as a rank distinction. There were also cheap places called kashimise (riverside mise). In Kimetsu no Yaiba, the place where Daki and Gyūtarō were raised was a line of riverside rowhouse shops called kirimise,* the very cheapest of the brothels, where of course, the prostitutes were also treated the worst. Kirimise had such a notorious reputation that it was commonly said you’d get a horrible disease or suffer terrible injury if you went to them, so sometimes they were even called “teppōmise” (rifle-mise). This was the bottom-most tier supporting the strict ranking system of Yoshiwara.

*In Chapter 96, Gyūtarō remembers the name of the place as Rashōmon-gashi (gashi being the same as kashi, “riverside”). Furthermore, when Hinatsuru fell ill, she was sent to a kirimise.

Now then, what sort of places were these girō where prostitutes lived? They were all two-story buildings, they had harimise rooms for business operations which faced the alleys and which had slatted windows, behind which you could see the prostitutes. With the exception of these harimise rooms, all the rooms on the first floor were for the employees to use for daily life. After taking the large staircase to the second floor, the first door would lead to the rooms where prostitutes would serve food and drink to guests, and while the other rooms would be for each woman’s use. The prostitutes would each have their own room, while the women who sold especially well might have multiple rooms with their own respective purposes.

After the fall of Edo’s Bakufu government, Yoshiwara continued operations as a pleasure district. In the Meiji and Taishō periods, with the influence of worldviews that harshly criticized the buying and selling of people as goods, girō changed their names to kashi-zashiki (zashiki = luxurious meeting venues/tatami rooms for rent), under the official stance that the women were working there of their free will. In actuality, however, nothing about the prostitutes’ or girō’s situations had changed since the Edo period.

The spread of venereal disease, and the dark secrets of Yoshiwara’s female death toll

Yoshiwara seemed brilliant and showy on the surface, but the brighter the light, the deeper the shadow it casts. No matter how decorated the woman were, no matter how much of a brave front they put up in front of their customers, it doesn’t change the fact that they were victims of the sex trade and that day in and night out, they were forced into intercourse with countless numbers of men. To get sold into a brothel was to “sink into a world of suffering,” as was often said. While to men Yoshiwara was a paradise, to women, it was a hell where they had no freedom to live as they liked.

In Kimetsu no Yaiba, Daki and Gyūtarō’s mother was said to have contracted “the plum poison”* (syphilis), which at the time was an illness with no treatment and which would ultimately prove fatal. Furthermore, due to the cramped living quarters, communicative diseases like tuberculosis also spread rampantly, while inadequate food led to nutritional deficiencies and exhaustion. It’s said that many prostitutes died in their 20’s.

*Reminder: Plum = Ume, poor Daki was named after her mother's disease. However, it can also be said "bai," like in the case of this illness: baidoku.

Prostitutes who died with no one to care for their remains were basically thrown into a hole in the ground at a nearby temple, and that would be it, with only the most basic funeral rites. One of the characters who in appeared in Kimetsu no Yaiba, Koinatsu-oiran, had someone pay to get her out of bondage, but in reality, there were very few women this lucky. Most women who found themselves forced into prostitution would ultimately be thrown away like disposable chopsticks.

The Anti-Prostitution Act went into effect in on April 1, Shōwa 33 (1958). In its 340 years, there’s no telling how many women suffered through life in Yoshiwara.

Even demons would be shocked at the strict ranking systems of prostitutes

Prostitutes operated under a very strict ranking system. As they were goods for sale by the girō, having a ranking system meant that they could charge different prices for different goods. Of course, having a higher rank brought a clear difference in working conditions. Making prostitutes compete with each other for better conditions made them better workers, and customers would set their sights on higher ranking prostitutes, so this was all a boon for the brothels.

In earlier times prostitutes were split up into only three classes, tayū,* kōshi, and hashita/hashi,** but there were continual updates made depending on the times and how they changed. The following is roughly what the ranking system was at the time of the Bakumatsu period.*** *I’ve seen this phrase used in Bakumatsu context, very similar to the use of oiran **This is what Daki and Gyūtarō’s mother was, as they are Edo period children, and it had that low of a connotation, literally referring to being on the edge. ***1853-1868. This saw the end of the Edo era and start of the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Taishō came right after that (1912-1926), and a common fandom guess for when the majority of Kimetsu no Yaiba takes place is 1915.

OIRAN: - The highest rank was called to ageya (high-class brothels), and they cost one ryō, one bu(roughly 77,000 modern Japanese yen, based on the equivalent cost of rice*). - Next, other on-call oiran. Since their daytime price was three bu (roughly 60,000 JPY), they were called “Daytime Three.” - Finally, those with their own zashiki; they’d have one for personal use and one for entertaining customers. They cost two bu (roughly 40,000 JPY). *Monetary conversations according to this site SHINZŌ: Newer girls with their own rooms.* They were typically young and cost one bu (roughly 20,000 JPY). *Not to be confused with luxurious zashiki.

FURISODE SHINZŌ: A girl who has graduated from being a kamuro and is learning from the older yūjo (prostitutes), she did not take customers.

BANTŌ SHINZŌ: A prostitute who has aged out of service but remains in the girō to take care of oiran.

KAMURO: Girls ages 6 to 14 who stuck around the oiran to learn from her. YARITE: The person responsible for overseeing the yūjo and kamuro, as well as for handling the guests. CHAYA NYŌBŌ: The lady of an intermediary chaya, who provided information for guests to the pleasure quarters.

CHAYA GEJO: A girl who did remedial work at a chaya.

Very generally, you could say that Oiran, also called Keisei, were veteran, upper echelon prostitutes with their own zashiki, everyone below them were typically younger prostitutes called Shinzō, and the very cheapest prostitutes at the bottom of society were the ones at kirimise. As the distinctions of rank were so strict, if you were to compare their social levels to those within the Demon Slayer Corp, then you might say cultivators like Urokodaki were like Bantō Shinzō, Kanao would be a Kamuro, and the three young girls who work in the Butterfly Mansion would be like Chaya Gejo.*

*Some specific background characters as examples: Koinatsu-oiran of Tokito-ya (where Sumiko worked) is an oiran, and she had two kamuro with her. We likewise see Warabihime-oiran of Kyōgoku-ya with three kamuro. Many of the background women, like the ones watching Zenko’s shamisen performance at Kyōgoku-ya, may had been Shinzō. The foxy lady from Ogimoto-ya who spotted Inoko under all that makeup was a yarite. Not listed in the translation source material is okami, the proprietress of a hospitality related establishment (in this case brothels, but this title is still used in modern inns, restaurants, chaya, etc.). Omitsu, who suspected Warabihime and was dropped to her death, was the okami, married to the rōshu (owner) of Kyōgoku-ya, but Kyōgoku-ya had a different lady who was the yarite, whom Tengen charmed into taking Zenko as essentially a Chaya Gejo (literally, “lower woman of the tea house”). Omitsu had recalled hearing stories of someone like Warabihime from an “old lady of the chaya” (not necessarily her own grandmother); this lady could likely be called a Chaya Nyōbō.

Gyū: The pimps in prostitutes’ shadows, making everything happen

The men who worked in girō were called “Wakai-shi”, that is, “The Young Folk,” but the ones who especially worked out in the open were the pimps: gyū. Their main job was to bring in customers. For smaller brothels, they’d essentially employ the simple modern clip joint methods of calling out, pulling customers by their sleeves, and not letting go until they got them inside. As displayed in “Kimetsu no Yaiba,” it was also the gyū’s job to go collect from customers who were short on payments. As fights between gyūs to bring in customers were too unruly, a roped-off “gyū platform” was built, and the rule became that they could only call out to customers from on top of the gyū platform of each brothel. What would wind up happening is that as a customer passed by, one gyū might distract him while the other one stole his hat and ran inside with it. Or at least, this is the story according to some customers; their hat was inside first so they had no choice but to enter the establishment to recover it, as the lewd excuse goes.

Yoshiwara couldn’t have existed without gyū doing all the dirty work like this. It’s actually very fitting that a pair of sibling demons would function as one like this, with the oiran, Daki, on the outside, and the gyū, Gyūtarō, working behind the scenes.

Additional resources for historical photos: (Traditional) Chinese blog page with many historical photos of the setting, oiran, kamura, and shinzō Likewise, but a page on a Japanese blog with many more articles about Yoshiwara aesthetics

[voidsentprinces]

It would seem that Tataru with her insatiable marketing schemes and her collections of priceless odds and ends from bazaars across the realm. Had finally had enough of Lolorito’s meddling and attempted bribing of the Warrior of Light that she finally confronted and headbutted Hancock who was in the middle of discussing a trade deal with Namai locals as they went about their harvesting grain in their rice fields. This is the first occurred instance of a knick knack paddy whack.