#ryuji is there but this ain't about him

[t-u-i-t-c]

Hoeru Tono & Rikuo Byakuya in No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger Transformation Lesson 1

[itsracc]

Team skull and Guzma probably had the biggest influence on my personality and speech patterns, yo

[awriternamedart]

One of the many things Akira noticed about Sakamato Ryuji was just how quietly he loved.

He didn’t mean specifically in a romantic sense. Friends, family, strangers- the way Ryuji showed his care and affection was almost silent.

It had first made itself apparent when Akira learned that Ryuji’s bright, yellow blonde wasn’t his natural tone- it was in fact, a bleach job he kept up on. He had noticed that Ryuji’s roots were growing in- a dark brown color that stood out starkly- and made an idle comment on it, drawing a fidgeting Ryuji’s hand to his thick, unruly hair.

“Oh, yeah. Been savin’ up to get some more bleach ‘n toner ‘n shit soon- ain’t let it grow out this long in a while.”

“You bleach it?”

“Yeah, started doin it round secondary and just- never stopped, I guess.”

He had later found out that he had done it so that Ann wouldn’t be alone as the only blonde, and even though they had fallen out over the years, he had still kept up with it. And considering the price of that kind of bleach job, the fact that he was always reminded to dye it back- it wasn’t an easy endeavor to keep up with.

And yet, he did so without even a thought of stopping.

It really had caught Akira’s eye when Yusuke had joined their little group.

For the first time, Akira got to witness Ryuji get along with someone from the beginning- and it wasn’t exactly easy. Ryuji, for all his sunny grins, had more than a few walls up when it came to new people. He got to see a gruffer, more agitated Ryuji- and also got to witness him slowly lower that outward mask to let their teammate in.

When Akira caught Ryuji suddenly always having a pencil on hand, he had known Yusuke had his seal of approval.

This type of pattern just kept repeating itself, mostly. With Makoto it was… a little more difficult- but that was because they had a history by ear. Ryuji’s reputation was the stark opposite of Makoto’s so there was bound to be friction- but Ryuji wasted no time in trying to help her anyway.

Even if Akira would forever shiver at the memory of Ryuji throwing himself in front of a moving car.

From there- Futaba, Haru, even Morgana, Sae, Sojiro and Kasumi on the off chance of meeting her- Ryuji would always have a special way that he loved. That he cared.

Something even Ryuji himself hadn’t seemed aware of when Akira first brang it up.

“Eh? Whaddya mean?”

“The pencil in your pocket. It's for Yusuke, isn't it?” Akira prodded, a nonchalant question more than anything. The quiet tenor of his voice carried a much lighter lilt to it now that they had taken down Shido.

“How'd you know I got a pencil- well, dudes always mumblin ‘bout drawin this or that.” Ryuji offhandedly waved, leaning back onto the comforter atop Akira’s mishmash assembly of a bed. “ ‘s easier to shut him up with it."

“Haru never running out of soil or fertilizer?”

“The bags aren’t that heavy- sides, it ain't like I got anythin’ else to do after school, ‘less ‘m hangin’ out with you.”

“Morgana’s treat pocket in your bag?”

“Keeps him from yowlin’ at me.”

“Futaba’s ever growing manga collection?”

“They were just gonna rot in my room.”

“Makoto mentioned that her notes are always nice and neat whenever she gets them back from you.”

“Well, duh, they aint mine. Gotta keep them in nice condition.”

“Your hair?”

“What about it?”

Akira just rolled his eyes. This guy was impossible- so silence fell over the pair in the quiet room overlooking the backstreets. Wood creaked nearby, a quiet snapping noise that neither paid much attention to.

There was more Akira could have gone into to- the dishes when Sojiro was out and Ryuji was hangin around, Akira catching him looking up gymnastics specifics one evening- hell, Ryuji had even begun to look through how to properly play billiards before.. yeah.

For all the shit Ryuji was dragged through, the butt of the joke, the beaten up punch line- he never stopped caring. Akira couldnt help but be proud of his choice in a loyal right hand.

“Uh oh.”

“Hm?"

“Ya got that look on yer face.” Ryuji leaned forward, a smirk rising on his face. “That stupid calculatin look like your takin a shadow apart with your mind.”

“I have no idea what you mean.”

The repressed smirk said it all to Ryuji, the way grey glinted behind faux glasses- Akira had all but two seconds before an arm was slung over his shoulder, gasping as he was tugged down and a hand was playfully ruffling with his hair. Laughter erupted, Ryuji’s demands that he tell him whats going on in his head almost lost to the tussle.

“Cmon, ‘Kira- you cant hide nothin from me!”

“Unfortunately.” Glasses knocked askew, Akira straighted up, going to fix them before they were snatched off his face. “Hey-!”

Ryuji just grinned back, shark teeth and all.

“So, gonna tell me or do I gotta hold these hostage?”

And Akira just rolled his eyes, easily snatching back his glasses and slipping them on his face. He looked back to Ryuji to see brown shining back, amber flecks dancing in the setting sun. Straw gold hair caught the few orange rays that managed to worm their way into the backstreets of Yongen-Jaya, freshly touched up blonde roots barely visible through the thicket of mismatched cut hair.

He felt himself just shake his head, melting easily to his partner in crime who just blinked- looking at Akira in slight confusion.

“Dude, you sure you're good?"

Neither of them were PDA people- maybe thats why it was easy for them to just exist around each other like they did. But for the rare moments- the quiet touch of their lips, the stolen moments they had, hands hesitantly bumping against the others- Akira knew.

For all the ways Ryuji loved, this was the way Akira liked the most.

-

The Quiet Way He Cares - awriternamedart

[lordichamo]

would ryuji stop wearing hair dye and let it out brunette style. like getting older and going "i ain't worrying about this shit regularly" or getting bored and trying out dark hair

hmmmmmm good question! I'm someone who dyes their hair a lot myself, so speaking from my experience at least while it CAN be a pain to maintain i like the look of it so that makes the effort worth it

(granted, i don't have my hair dyed right now, but that's because I have a buzz cut and as much as i love the look of bleached/dyed buzz cuts my hair grows TOO fast and i do NOT feel confident in my ability to pull off the inevitable frosted tips)

ALL THAT TO SAY. i could see him going either way??? He's kept it up since (at least) 12 years old, and considering how thorough he is it doesn't seem like he's keen on letting roots show or anything like that BUT. Who knows! He definitely could get tired of the upkeep (again my aforementioned haircut is bc i wanted to take a break and do something super low maintenance for a bit) and swap over to a natural color for a bit. anyway. obligatory natural hair color ryuji

[yakuzacanons]

Yakuza Headcanons: Watching Spooky Movies

Oooooo it's the spooky season ain't it. Hello hello I rise from the grave to bring you some fresh headcanons for the season. For those with asks still in the inbox, I SEE em, just been busy with my horror movie marathon. Anyways, some headcanons below da cut to tide you over. Also welcome bouncing baby boy Ichiban to the gang!

Kiryu Kazuma

Isn't scared easily by much of anything so it's really easy to get him to watch horror movies. Mostly watches them because someone else is too scared to watch them alone. He's the person they can hide behind or who will tell them when a particularly horrifying scene is over.

Gore doesn't bother him as much as something or someone looking creepy or offputting will. Kiryu still won't get scared but he will get uncomfortable. Most of the time he just reacts by going "Ah... oh!"

Fond of the classics and will gravitate towards movies with a strong and likable protagonist. Likes The Evil Dead, Aliens, and Halloween. Directors don't matter much to him.

Majima Goro

He's a mixed bag. If a movie is well put together, then it can scare him pretty easily. He's most scared of ghost stories or paranormal things. Least afraid of slashers because he thinks he could just beat them all up.

Cannot stand jump scares. Sometimes he evens yells at his TV at home in irritation, saying things like "Oi, whaddya keep makin' loud noises for? Sheesh!"

Honestly, the weirder the movie the better. It might seem stereotypical for someone who looks and acts like Majima but he thinks the whole point of horror is to be interesting. Fond of Takashi Miike movies like Ichi the Killer, Audition, and Over Your Dead Body.

Akiyama Shun

Doesn't watch a lot of movies because he totally falls asleep during most of them. He'll at least give it a shot if you ask nicely though. Honestly more motivated by the fact you might cling to him during the scary parts than anything.

As much as Akiyama is a total ladies' man and romantic at heart, he always laughs whenever characters start being intimate during horror movies. He makes jokes out of it, saying things like "Babe, would you still love me if we were in a spooky movie?"

Movies with a good soundtrack actually help him stay awake. Jump scares annoy him though because if he falls asleep, the noise makes him panic. Fond of monster movies or movies about animals like Jaws, Shin Godzilla, and The Host.

Saejima Taiga

Genuinely not scared of a single darn thing. If you want to watch it, he's down to give it at least a try. He might nod off if he's tired or bored, but he tries his best not to. Horror comedy is okay with him too although he might not get all the jokes.

Most of the time he sits with his arms crossed, paying full attention. He's kind of funny in that he makes noises like "Heh" or "Hmph" when a character is caught off guard by something. Makes an occasionaly "Tsk" sound at jump scares. Otherwise he's not reactionary.

Particularly fond of slashers, probably because those usually have villains that are actually kind of his size. He enjoys the Friday the 13th series, particularly Jason X.

Tanimura Masayoshi

Type of guy to be like "Ooh let's watch this, I heard it's really scary" and then proceed to either get scared out of his wits or say something like "Wait, that's ALL?" at the end. Bases most of his movie choices off of other people's recommendations since he's usually too busy to randomly go see however many movies he wants to.

Doesn't really like horror that's super in your face. Gets more scared by the tension itself than anything. Always has movie snacks on hand.

Found footage is probably his most favorite type of horror. Likes The Blair Witch Project, Noroi, and REC. Fond of director Koji Shiraishi.

Ryuji Goda

Doesn't watch a lot of horror movies but like Saejima he's not scared of anything. He's also the type of guy to drop everything to spend time watching a movie with his partner. Gets a kick out of being a shield or protector during scary parts.

Likes movies with a lot of personality and campiness. Slow burns or psychological thrillers just put him to sleep. It doesn't matter if it's good or bad, as long as it's entertaining.

Didn't think he'd end up being much of a horror fan but he's quite partial to John Carpenter. Likes The Thing, They Live, and Christine.

Nishikiyama Akira

One of the bigger scaredy cats of the group. Won't suggest a horror movie but will totally act like he's not at all afraid if you ask to see one.

Honestly, the two of you end up just kind of holding onto each other during scary parts or pulling up the blanket almost over your eyes when a character is about to die. Violence doesn't necessarily bother him but excessive gore kind of annoys him.

Enjoys a good ghost story movie but only if you'll watch it with him. Anthologies are also good too since it offers so much at once. Likes Ju-On, Ringu, and Tales From The Crypt.

Mine Yoshitaka

Likes certain horror movies. Not scared of much but he does get noticably uncomfortable with torture movies like Saw or Hostel. He just finds it to be weird more than entertaining.

Fond of more classic monsters like vampires or werewolves. Mine's the type of guy to actually have a decent home theater setup, even if he doesn't get much time to use it, so he doesn't go to the movie theater much.

Has a soft spot for some of the really old classics in the 30's like Frankenstein or Nosferatu. His favorite horror movie is Interview With The Vampire.

Daigo Dojima

Probably the only one of the boys who actively enjoys slow burns and more psychological horror. He doesn't get opportunities to watch movies much but he does have an interest in the medium as a whole.

Particularly loves anything with spectacular cinematography. Good directing, lighting, or costumes really impress him. Kind of interested in some of the technical aspects as well. Also probably the only of the boys to ever look something up on IMDb.

Especially fond of movies by Kiyoshi Kurosawa. His favorite horror films are Kwaidan, Cure, and Pulse.

Tatsuo Shinada

The biggest scaredy cat of all of the boys. Will attempt to watch a spooky movie with you at least once just for the sake of trying but will honestly just close his eyes if he feels overwhelmed. You HAVE to hold his hand though.

Probably the only one of the boys who actually gets squeamish easily. Gore and blood make him uncomfortable, although he has SOME tolerance in general. He'd just rather watch something that's not super heavy on bloodshed.

Horror films with a particular visual style, especially super colorful ones, make it a lot easier for him as he can actually see what's happening and he feels less worried. Movies like House or Suspiria are good for him. Also likes super over the top movies like The Lost Boys or Killer Klowns From Outer Space as they're so hilarious to him that he forgets to be scared.

Kasuga Ichiban

Somewhat easily scared. He gets more shocked or surprised than scared, honestly. The movie HAS to be interesting to some degree or he will just conk out and there will be no waking him. Doesn't mind jump scares since they help keep him awake at least even if the movie's bad.

Having said that, he does enjoy taking the time to see a movie that's genuinely just really good and talking about it with you afterward. Movies with really good effects tend to impress him a lot. It's also more visually memorable.

Tends to like movies where the main character has special powers. Partial to zombie movies since a lot tends to happen and involves multiple characters. He likes 28 Days Later, The Dead Zone, and Carrie.

[billerak]

Ok so I saw the take that the reason Ami does everything she does during the second half of Toradora is explicitly for Ryuji and his happiness and like

I am honor-bound, as the owner of Minami/Aminori, to refute this understandable take with my own delusions. I won't say where I saw this take cuz I don't wanna have beef with no-one but I can't not answer either.

So I'll just pick the scene the scene that seemed to prompt this take and say nuh-uh. The fight after the room discussion. "Ami knew the guys were in the closet and she was just trying to get Minori to confess that she likes Ryuji, or that she doesn't like him, to give him a straight answer."

This one's easy to disprove. For starters, Ami has no way to know the guys were in the closet. At best, she can guess Taiga is there, thanks to the towel. Could she extrapolate Ryuji being there? I mean, sure, maybe. It's a bit of a leap in logic but let's say she figured it out.

EVEN WITH THAT!

She literally disproves it herself. She wants Minori to be honest with her, and that's what's pissing her off. I already made a whole ass analysis of this entire episode here and here (and of pretty much every important moment for Minori and Ami just check the Toradora tag in my archive) so I won't be going on a whole rant about it here but yeah.

I mean, she's not angry that she couldn't give Ryuji the answer. She's explicitly angry she can't get Minori to be honest.

Could Ryuji also be influencing her? Oh, totally. She still likes him... kinda. At this point she's so fucking done with it all.

It's true she was pushing Minori and Ryuji to be together, presumably for his sake too. But... We're in chapter 21 already bro. You think Ami doesn't know full well what's going on?

This stopped being about Ryuji at least 4 chapters ago. 5 if you push me. It's also why she's feeling so guilty! She's been pushing Minori to be honest and only ended up hurting her and Ryuji!

But why is she going through all this trouble?! Think, random internet user, think! If she already knows Ryuji and Taiga will end up together (And she fucking does), then the only person who actually stands to benefit from being wholly honest is Minori! Ryuji doesn't need the closure of a straight answer, it's Minori who needs to be relieved of the burden of a not-pursued love!

This shit ain't for Ryuji, not fully. It's for Minori.

Why go that far? Well you can check my other posts or draw your own conclusions. I have my own lmao.

[four-white-trees]

Sunday Six time! Still working Akuma, slow as it is. This project has helped me develop the beastman au a lot more as well which is great! so imma yap about it a bit

There are a few taxonomic types of beastmen (eg, mammals, reptiles, avian, etc) and within those types are loose groups that share traits (think felines vs canines).

I assign an animal affinity to each character. These aren't in-universe but rather help me to determine behavior for each individual character. So when I say Akutsu is a leopard, i don't mean he's a literal wereleopard but that I draw inspiration from leopards when I write him

Akuma’s affinity is a cougar. Some other characters I've thought about: Kaito - Lion; Ryuji and Kaoru - Dragon; Sawashiro - Wolf

I'm enjoying this playground quite a bit!

tagging: @jichanxo @overdevelopedglasses @skysquid22 @humbletaxidriver @mike----wazowski @ikainkspills @passthroughtime

He followed his nose to a cheap rice and noodle bowl hole in the wall. There he ate three extra large beef bowls, then took three more back to his hotel room so he wouldn't attract much more undue attention. The cook saying, “Well, you're a big guy, ain't ya?” in a cheerful tone that poorly hid his judgment was more than Akuma was willing to endure.

God forbid he be a fat man with an impossibly big appetite. As if either was under his control.

The edge of Akuma’s dark mood dulled when his appetite was finally sated, and it was then that he recalled Akutsu's final demands.

Get the fuck outta here, take your ass to bed, then come find me. And you be ready. I'm going to have my way with you.

Akuma felt his body warm. He knew going to Akutsu that night would be a grave misstep in his handling of this case. He had no pretense of fulfilling his duty as a Sapporo police detective. This would go beyond undercover investigation, treading over every rule, ever boundary, and all good sense.

Yet there was no hesitation, no internal debate, hardly even a conscious thought as Akuma rose and gathered some items for a shower.

[bengiyo]

If It's With You Ep 1 Stray Thoughts

A second show from MBS releasing. These are some of the youngest boys we've had, and I'm excited about the three MBS releases for today.

Oh lord our protagonist is moody and he's already had sex. I'm sold.

Fascinated that that he's been having hookups with adults and seems comfortable with his sexuality.

Our romantic lead is making me think of Ja.

My roommate and I had to pause and comment on this cat's huge balls.

Interesting. Amane immediately started using Yamasuge's given name.

Oh, I really like that Amane is flirty, and that he's assessing if the cute boy who can cook is straight.

Can't fall in love if you ain't clumsy.

Our little horny boy looks like he left behind some angst.

Well well well, our boys are in the same homeroom.

Amane is a menace and I already love him.

He touched Ryuji's hair and instantly assessed him as shy.

Amane has no shame. I am obsessed. He is checking out these boys, asking for dates, and nodding approvingly at the girls.

Yes, suggestively eat the ice cream after grabbing his wrist.

I'm uncertain what happened in this exchange where Amane made sure Ryuji knew he was gay. What made Ryuji turn serious that Amane demurred to?

And the hot water heater has broken so we're already going to a public bath house together!

I am already obsessed, besties. I think this character is what @respectthepetty calls a red rascal and he is a menace. I just know @ginnymoonbeam is going to be obsessed just like me.

[talesofsonicasura]

Persona 5: Phantom Cat Pt2

Here we go with Part 2 of the Phantom Cat AU. I'll be covering the Confidants, plot changes, but also the potential of Poppy Playtime being more involved. Let's get started.

If I can sum up the Phantom Thieves' relationship with Joker in one word, it'll be protective. Even the Personas especially Arsène are no different. Ren does admit to once being human but everyone doesn't learn about his tragic backstory until after Okumura's Palace.

You can bet their ass they were disgusted upon finding out Playtime Co's inhumane experiments. It isn't uncommon for Ren to find one or more of his companions lay against him when he loafs around like a giant cat. Something the Thieves' Den makes easier as Leblanc's attic is not that spacious.

Morgana sympathizes with Ren the most. Both of them aren't human and won't be accepted by the outside world for it. Ren was lucky to find someone who raised him with kindness than just free the young man from a terrible fate. They're feline brothers, your honor.

Ryuji, Yusuke and Haru are three flavors of food friends. The former track star sneaking out for a daily run with Ren alongside the occasional ramen or snack food chow downs. His zoomies become manageable thanks to Ryuji. (Sojiro is still reeling from a hyper Ren pouncing on him.)

Yusuke enthusiastically introduces the living toy to the art world since he cannot visit a museum like a normal patron. Ren sometimes find himself being a muse for some of his paintings and usually portrayed as a peculiar enigma. The two always chow down on curry afterwards.

Gardening with Haru anyone? Ren always feel bad about how much money his new family have to spend just to keep him fed. (Futaba had a limit put on credit theft by Sojiro as he doesn't want both his kids to rely on illegal crime to survive.) Something Haru can understand since she has similar issues. The two bond over coffee together.

Emotional support Ann is a definite. The two constantly talk about facing their issues and ways to strengthen their heart. Ren is always happy to lend a ear whenever Ann has problems in her model career or updates about her friend Shiho's recovery. She gives good advice when the giant toy needs help getting Futaba used to the outside world.

Makoto is the socially awkward training partner. Both Ren and her don't have much experience with people outside their friend group so neither know what can be considered normal. The two hammer out each other's issues whenever possible or just vibe together.

All of the Persona in the group do their best to make Ren feel normal every time the group is together thus shenanigans are guaranteed. Carmen and Milady are the wine aunts who endorse the chaos. Necronomicon is his 2nd fellow prankster partner(Futaba is 1st).

Zorro, Johanna and Goemon being the only responsible adults most of the time. Captain Kidd is a sheer chaotic neutral as no one knows whether he'll start something or remain level headed. Finally we get to Arsène.

The poor pigeon hasn't been in this particular element before. Nonhuman Persona Users are a thing so it ain't that. Ren's heart can be considered a massive mess. Whatever was done to make him a living toy, it left something vile behind. Yet Ren continues to defy fate even with the leech latched onto his soul.

Thus Arsène can be a bit more aggressive when it comes to Ren's health. Always near the surface of his partner's subconscious whether to offer soothing words or protect him if needed. In the Thieves' Den, Arsène is usually found snuggled next to Ren with a cover around his knife heels.

Now most of Joker's Confidants are people he has to sought out. A more complicated affair due to not being human. There is actually one more Confidant he has mostly maxxed out and knows about his status: Tae Takami of the Death Arcana. (Yes I absolutely complete the whole thing early just to unlock Alice.)

Sojiro was concerned about Ren's health as they had no clue if or when health complications will occur. Thus it led to Tae becoming his secret doctor as she not only the closest but is trusted amongst the community for her skills. It was a very interesting conversation to say the least.

Now Ren is quite crafty when it comes to establishing his other bonds. Until he could shift into a more human size, Futaba prepared a special plushie with a built in-camera that he can talk through. The excuse being Ren is an hospital patient undergoing recovery after serious health complications and this toy helps him interact with the outside world.

Now onto plot changes, the deadlines alongside their consequences for failure remain the same. It's just not for the first two Palaces. Ren is still captured and put in the Interrogation section. Although it took the traitor attacking from the shadows to injure him enough for police to subdue the Bigger Body.

He's far more beat up, chained and has a specialized muzzle since Ren is a giant chloroform breathing cat toy monster. Can't forget the possibile dissection if he can't escape his fate. The plot for the Third Semester dances around the chance to be human again in his face. Ren doesn't take it of course.

For Scramble, he casually chills in everyone's bags and pull the special patient card to converse with others. Ren can still cook as it's a calming hobby for him alongside gardening. Plus the sight of a giant CatNap in an apron cooking was too hard to resist.

Also yes, I am in the 'Adopt Sophia' group cause she's precious. Especially when Ryuji got to say fuck just to defend her. Sophia definitely calls Ren 'kitty' but he really doesn't mind unlike Morgana. Yes, they do snuggle in the Thieves Den as no one shall avoid the cuddle pile.

Awkward dad Zenkichi anyone? Man absolutely flipped upon seeing Ren as he thought the whole report about 'Phantom Cat Joker' being a giant purple monster was a joke. Nope and you shall get your tired ass dragged into cuddles cause Ren smells stress.

The Persona also get more involved in the shenanigans too. Only Ren's confidants or those who delve into the Metaverse long enough can see much less interact with them. Best to keep Captain Kidd away from fireworks though. (There are special cases but that's for later.)

Before you ask, yes, Joker's main Showtime special is different. Instead of just blasting Shadows with Eiha, Ren breathes out chloroform smokescreen and bursts forth alongside Arséne to come down on their targets like a predator. The attack retains the Curse element but does Physical damage too. A Two in One type combo.

Tactica's plot remains the same however every target views Ren with disgust. All saying there is an 'chimeric abomination' latched onto his heart. The enemies also target him more than Erina and the other thieves.

Speaking of her, she does think Ren is a cat who again doesn't really mind much. Toshiro absolutely freaks out and takes awhile to get used to him. Gameplay wise, Ren is mostly the same except he has more movement options to fit his feline Bigger Body.

Pouncing on further away enemies, inflict Sleep status in large groups, and his Phantom Judge special turns into Phantom Roar. An attack where Ren breathes out a massive cloud of chloroform for Arséne to convert into a Eiha powered explosion. Not only does it do massive damage but also has a high chance of inflicting Sleep status on targets.

Finally we move onto Poppy Playtime. If you guys were paying close attention, then the signs should be obvious. Something is connected to Ren and his past holds the answers. Thus the Phantom Thieves of Hearts visit the Playtime Co Factory to see if they can help their friend. He had been experiencing vivid nightmares which all link to this place.

Now the factory isn't the same like in the game. For unknown reasons, the place has become a pseudo-Mementos linked to the collective consciousness of the various souls who linger inside. Thus the factory has potential to shift anyone in the affected areas in or out the Metaverse side without warning.

A chance of Shadow attacks are not only high but there is a possibility that something even deadlier lurks inside. There are occasions where it is required to travel through this dangerous 'Labyrinth' to progress deeper. (Can't have them blazing through the place.)

Everyone split into two groups so they can cover more ground. Group 1: Ren, Yusuke, Ann, Makoto; and Group 2: Morgana, Haru, Ryuji, Futaba. They'll be encountering characters who not only appear in Poppy Playtime but also Project Playtime. Player character is there too so the Phantom Thieves will meet them.

Guaranteed canon divergence as some of the Poppy Playtime cast might not even encounter the game protagonist. The Phantom Thieves won't ignore someone in need *looks at one particular character* and don't kill their targets. For them, living with guilt for one own sins is a fate worse than death.

New players have entered the game that neither groups could ever foreseen. Can the Phantom Thieves of Hearts solve the mystery and shut down this the factory's immense distortion? Only the phantom cat will determine victory or defeat.

[the-phantom-officianados]

ryuji how often do you think about beating akechi in a fistfight

Hey! One thing needs to be established real quick, I'm not a violent person! I ain't gonna say I don't But considerin' Akechi JUST came out, I don't think we should talk about this today.

I can't hurt him during pride month, allyship among all the letters (Ren says I'm B?), ask me again in July.

☆ ryuji ⚡️

[lev-1athan]

@stunt-muppet I am home and can now post an excerpt! This is unedited and from years ago (though I may have started adding on more to this just now)

"Don't you want to get revenge on him? The things he did to you, and your mother... Don't you want to make him pay?"

Ryuji forced himself to look up and meet Akechi's gaze. It was steady and almost too calm, and something about it made the hair on the back of his neck prickle.

"If I do that, I'm... I'm just like him, ain't I?" Ryuji shook his head and clenched his jaw to release some of the tension curdling inside him. "Sometimes it's hard though. Goin' into the Metaverse, I hafta be rough and hurt people. Well, they aren't really people, I guess, but you know what I mean." He exhaled long and low. "But knowing that we're doing it for a good cause kinda helps me get it out. We're helping people and changing society for the better.

"And when Ann says stuff like, she doesn't know if we're doin' the right thing and she doesn't know if we're really helping people, I..." Ryuji faltered and then scrubbed a hand over his face before resting it back on the table. He had to force his fingers to stop trembling. "Eff, man, I don't know why I'm telling you this." He laughed joylessly.

"Tell me." Akechi's eyes were steady on his, and Ryuji didn't even like the guy but something about him made him want to spill his damn guts on the table, made him want to see Akechi spill his own dark secrets.

Ryuji picked at the napkin under his glass again. The edges were shredded by now. "I feel like... if all this time, we weren't the good guys... how am I better than him, y'know? Using violence to get what I want." His voice broke on the last word, and suddenly Akechi's hand was covering the back of his, stilling his anxious movements. His cool, slender fingers curved over the back of Ryuji's knuckles, and it didn't feel good to be holding Akechi's hand--felt really effing weird, wrong, and if Futaba was spying on Leblanc right now he was going to ask Ann to explode him into pure flame--but something about it made his thoughts stop racing.

"Would you believe me if I said 'I understand?'" Akechi said. His voice sounded oddly detached.

"Yeah?"

"Yes. Except I'm prepared to do what it takes to show my... to show him what I can do to him."

[awriternamedart]

“I'd thought you'd continue to avoid me. This rapid change in behavior is rather annoying, you know.”

Ryuji settled for glaring at the guy, not missing the way Akechi’s lips curled up at the sight. There seemed to be little to no end to their bickering, but Akechi assumed it was for the best.

To avoid meaningless conversation would be preferable. There was no need to compromise their mission sooner.

Which is why he was caught off guard when Skull had practically taken him by the arm and dragged him off during a recon meeting at the Palace entrance. So far, he had been one of the more.. agitated of the group, though he supposed that was to be expected. Kurusu’s right hand was an unwaveringly loyal dog.

Taking in a frustrated sigh, Akechi grimaced.

“Look, if Joker has put you up to this, we will drop it. I have no interest-”

“Akira didn't put me up for shit. ‘M doin this on my own, asshole.” Skull butted in immediately, slouching against the hedges. He seemed to scoff at the idea, almost. “He ain't like that. He'd talk to you himself.”

“Oh, I am fully aware of that.” Crow found himself acting haughty- it was one of the best ways to get under Skull’s skin. Not that it was hard to do, but his bursts of quick anger were quite refreshing. “But we really ought not waste meaningless time. We-”

“Oh, shut up, will ya? ‘M tryna apologize, damnit!”

..it was rare that someone other than Akira caught Akechi off guard.

“...excuse me?”

“Ugh- look, ok. Don't take this as me forgivin you or some bullshit like that.” Pushing off the hedge, Skull came around to face Crow, arms folded. “Knowin what you did to Futaba, Haru, and Akira? Like hell I'm ever forgivin you. But..”

He roughly scratched at his skull, grumbling.

“..Ya didn't feel like ya had a choice, didya.”

Akechi found himself momentarily stunned into silence.

“...how much did he tell you.”

“Hm? Who, Kira? Not much, nothin, actually. All I really know is he called me up after we took down that bastard and..” Something seemed to soften in Ryuji, the tenseness in his shoulders dying slightly as brown eyes sent a glance towards the leader of this ragtag band- one that he missed being sent back as he looked towards Akechi again. “..he mourned you, yknow.”

..what?

“...mourned?”

“Ya disappeared. Never showed up after Shido’s Palace was sent crashin. We all thought ya were.. yknow. We all kinda mourned you- I.. well, at least we regretted not turnin ‘round to save you.”

It took a few moments for the laughter to bubble up in Akechi’s throat.

“You?! Mourning me?!” How absurd!! These fools, mourning him?! He had betrayed them, attempted to trick them, pulled the trigger on two of their parents-!! And these fools mourned him?! “Don't try to coerce me with those pathetic lies! How could you even dream of mourning someone who played you from the start?!”

“Oh, shut up already!!” Skull's shout drew everyone's attention- anger scribbled across his tone in jagged strokes. Hands took Akechi’s shirt, dragging him forward in his anger so they were face to face- It took him two seconds to drop his voice as Akechi's crazed laughter was cut short. “You bastard- I watched him cry for you, and you fuckin laugh?!”

A sneer drew itself on Crow’s lips.

“Wasted tears.”

“You-!!"

“Skull.”

Both of them looked over as Joker approached them, his gray eyes ever piercing and wary. It was almost immediate, the way Ryuji scoffed and let go of Akechi, letting him stagger and catch his balance.

“Go back to your team, Kurusu- we’ve finished our conversation here.” Before Skull could open his mouth, Crow cut in, fixing his misshapen collar with a casual, snide smirk. Joker’s eyes were dragged to him, a mix of distrust and.. pain lingering in his gaze.

It made Akechi clench his teeth.

“...We’re heading to the Observatory safe room. We’ll go when the lineup forms.” His voice was clipped, but both Skull and Crow nodded nonetheless, waiting till Joker’s back was turned and heading back- Akechi about to follow.

“...Look, Akechi-”

“Don't.” Crow cut him off, turning to look at him sidelong. “I don't have time for your meaningless antics.”

“Cut it out with the bullshit already. Can't you see I'm at least tryin here?!”

“And I say we end this here. There's no point in-”

“Stop being such a pretentious ass and listen to me, damnit.”

Annoyance was rising in Akechi by the second. He simply did not know when to quit, did he? Couldn't he tell that Akechi was trying to spare him already?!

“Fine then. Spit it out, we are wasting precious time here.”

“Finally. Look- I aint about to try ‘n be your friend.” Coming up right beside Akechi, Ryuji slipped his hands in his pockets, kicking at the floor slightly. “But- ugh, I'm sorry for treatin ya like shit before. Again, I aint about to forgive ya either-! But we gotta work as a team here, for Yoshizawa and Akira.”

He stuck his hand out, shoving it between them. It was a jumpy, rough movement, almost as if it was forced.

“So.. truce, or whatever?"

Crow found himself staring. What kind of idiotic move was this, apologizing? To him?

He scoffed. Absolutely ridiculous. Nothing but pain would come of this.

…and yet he took his hand anyway, the two of them shaking before firmly pulling away.

“..Fine then. Ill accept your.. truce.” He rolled his eyes, wiping his hand off on his hip. “..that was a rather pathetic show, you know.”

“What was that, asshole?!”

-

An Attempt to Step Forward - awriternamedart

[more-than-a-princess]

And in random OOC posting, I'm watching my husband play the new remastered Persona 3 in an attempt to understand the characters/fandom. This is what I've learned thus far:

Unless I stop him, he can and will make Minato buy every Mad Bull available and I worry about our protag's health. He'll go the way of the Panera Charged Lemonade at this rate.

Bebe is basically a lamer version of Sonia and he ain't cute. At least when Sonia has a Weeb Moment, she's cute. I don't care if he was created first: Sonia is better if we just ignore the fact Kodaka can't write women

Husband asked who Minato should romance. My answer: "Mitsuru is Best Girl and if you do not choose her we are going to have some disagreements."

He just made the Neko Shogun Persona and I love it, cuteness level high

Edit: He has now dressed the Ryuji of this game in a tuxedo because he found a random tuxedo and deemed the characters needed a dapper upgrade. This is one of the many reasons why we're married.

Edit part 2: I somehow missed that Spirit Hunter: Death Mark's sequel just came out and I must do the incredibly rare Rae thing and buy a video game. I wanted a sequel to NG more but I will take whatever Spirit Hunter I can get. This is your sign to play Spirit Hunter.

[sonicasura]

Here is the more in-depth look at my Kn8/Persona 5 crossover! This goes into the group dynamics, how it would affect both canon series' respective events and obviously shenanigans! Now let's get started.

Kafka and Soshiro mainly stay with Ren throughout the events of Persona 5. I mean both technically raised the kid for like 15 years via shared dreams. Plus the young man can really use more people to directly talk to that aren't always busy.

They do check in on the rest of the Phantom Thieves from time to time. Like seriously, the group really needs more caring adults to talk about their problems. (Sojiro and the Persona shouldn't shoulder all the work.)

Kafka is the only one who feels like they(him/Soshiro) are REALLY over their heads here. I mean they are going into people's cognition that happens to have insane monsters roaming around to change their heart. Especially when any wrong move could shut down the target's mind.

Yet there's no other way they can tackle the situation. Plus Kafka has a feeling it can lead to the truth about their strange connection with Ren. Something he knows that Soshiro would agree on.

You can bet the Persona 5 villains are lucky both men are stuck in a phantom like form. The real Kamoshida would already been beaten to a pulp instead of his Shadow. Luckily this cognitive state has its advantages.

The biggest one being information gathering or even scout the Metaverse since neither are tied down to a schedule like the other thieves. Something which truly came in handy for situations like with Shiho(even if Ren got heavily chastised for leaving class despite saving his classmate's life.) Kafka and Soshiro are often referred to as 'Phantom Informants' from this.

Both men do have a respective codename while in the Metaverse. Kafka being dubbed 'Oni' for his demonic visage and equally monstrous strength. Soshiro took the title 'Masamune' which fits both his swordsmanship but also the dragon mask he wears to conceal his face.

Neither can use spells so they rely on items or unique abilities to fight Shadows. By using his shifting abilities, Kafka morphs his biology to wield Fire/ Ice/Wind/Lightning/Gun type attacks. Soshiro can equip different charms to his swords to add Curse/Bless/Nuclear/Psychic/Almighty element to his attacks.

The two men share an Arcana together: the Titan. A mysterious tarot which symbolizes strength through adversity or falling to one's own hubris and incompetence. The Titan Arcana grants Ren not only protection from his current Persona's weakness(like Arsène with Ice/Bless) but even harm enemies despite their resistances(Strong Against/Null/Drain).

Kafka and Soshiro are essentially two flavors of dads when it comes to the Phantom Thieves. The former being a kindhearted yet silly figure who isn't afraid to give the young teens a hug or advice if need be. Luckily they don't seem to mind when kaiju based terminology like 'whelp' and primal behavior such as nuzzling slips out. Even if Ryuji thinks he acts more cat than a kaiju.

Soshiro is the mischievous but observant parental figure. Very quick to spot one of the thieves having trouble with something and easing their stress via a joke or prank. Phantom Thievery stacked alongside everyday life would definitely overwhelm a normal person, let alone a high school teenager.

It ain't uncommon for the thieves and their Persona to ask both men questions about their world. Not everyone has to deal with actual kaiju wreaking havoc on an almost daily basis. There definitely was a loud 'WHAT' moment when Soshiro mentions he's the Vice Captain to an entire military division.

Same thing for Kafka upon telling Hoshina's captain is his childhood friend and how he got his powers. He is secretly relieved that they understood Tiny forced himself down his throat rather than the man willingly eating a small kaiju. Although Futaba is concerned about this bleeding through the obvious connection with Ren.

Something proven right when Kafka senses a kaiju in Ren's room and finds the youth in the middle of shifting. A biological response upon being somewhere safe to heal. Unlike Kafka, the Phantom Thief leader is a quite feral while in kaiju form.

It's more than just opting to use his horns, claws, and teeth instead of his knife. Ren has a tendency to walk on all fours alongside using his enhanced senses like smell to track down potential targets as he can sniff out desires. He isn't shy of roaring, growling, and purring either. The estimated fortitude level for Ren is 9.5.

Obviously due to their corporeal form outside the Metaverse, Kafka and Soshiro often get into discussions with the Persona. The most frequent being Arsène or Zorro since they are the closest(eventually Necronomicon once Futaba joins.) An almost surreal experience if the Persona didn't have a habit of gossiping, cheating at Tycoon *looks at Carmen/Arsène/Milady/Captain Kidd*, causing mischief and questioning whether both men are in a relationship together.

Shenanigans that continue despite the duo going back to their world. Kafka and Soshiro were obviously kept under a watchful eye once they had woken up. Moreso the former as his vitals were very suspicious while under observation during his 'coma'.

This soon leads to Kafka being barred from the Entrance Exam much to Mina's hidden dismay. Not forgetting that both men have to undergo some physical therapy before being released. Luckily they have help from Ren and Morgana to assist them. The Phantom Thieves unfortunately leave their mark in the KN8 world as well.

Although with less heart stealing and more kaiju related vigilantism. Sometimes these monsters get a little too close to comfort so Ren, Morgana, nor any visiting thief have issues defending themselves with their Persona. An activity which only increases when Kafka is barred from the Defense Force and goes for the vigilante route.

I have another idea that may or may not be used. Fragments of the Metaverse had fallen into the world as it had yet to heal from P5 Royal's events. These 'Meta Shards' have a tendency to lure kaiju and people oozing negative emotions to them.

If not handled soon, a pseudo maze like Palace called a Den will manifest. These places are areas where the Metaverse has leaked through causing Shadows to not only appear but make kaiju go berserk. Dens can't be seen by those who haven't interacted with the cognitive realm.

This unfortunately leads to innocent bystanders not only walking into one but the potential of their Shadow becoming the Ruler known as a Beast. A Den will continue to cause various problems until the Treasure inside is taken and the Beast is defeated. Thus the Phantom Thieves must make their debut in the KN8 world before things really get out of hand.

Whether I implement this bit or not doesn't change the fact the Defense Force is gonna get involved. Mysterious teenagers and a strange cat creature that can summon an unknown type of kaiju would already set off alarms. The Meta Shard stuff would just ramp it up.

Soshiro and Kafka will get involved in both Strikers alongside Tactica. Whether other KN8 cast members other than No.10 joins the action is a coin flip at best. I can say that Soshiro will operate a bit differently once he gets his kaiju 'partner'.

What do you guys think though?

@foolmariofest @driokrine

[yakuzacanons]

boys and their kinks pls?! 😳👉👈 who's the kinkiest of them all 🥵

Sweating nervously but also hell fuckin yea, major NSFW below the cut so if u ain't 18+ I best not catch you looking down there.

Also, going out of town until next week, I will still be able to post some but it'll be at a much slower rate so thanks for your patience in the meantime! Love y'all and I'll be back in full next week.

Kazuma Kiryu

Loves shower sex. Honestly, any sex involving some form of getting physically wet appeals to him. Bathtubs, hot tubs, sex on the beach, he's down as long as you guys don't get caught, especially by the kids at Morning Glory.

Majima Goro

Lots of people see Majima as the king of kinks but it's just that he's open minded. Actually isn't into knife-play, as he sees it was a weapon for slicing up enemies, not for using on his romantic/sexual partner. Loves to praise you and be praised. Would let you peg him if you asked very nicely. Doesn't mind tying you up but isn't a fan of being tied up himself.

Saejima Taiga

He's got a thing for fucking you against walls while holding you up. It's some kind of showing off of strength thing for him. Into biting you and doesn't mind if you return the favor, although he prefers when you dig your nails into his back or into his arms during sex.

Akiyama Shun

Likes being blindfolded. Secretly into office sex but can't get away with it often enough to really bring it up much. Also would totally lick whipped cream off of you if you let him. A total sucker for any kind of lingerie or hosiery. Wasn't sure about hair pulling at first but the more he tries it, the more he likes it.

Tanimura Masayoshi

He's a little embarrassed at how obvious this is but he's into handcuffs. Prefers to put them on you as he's pretty used to doing that but will allow you to cuff him too. Wants to try out spreader bars at some point in his life. If he's super cooped up at work, he really enjoys phone sex.

Ryuji Goda

Really into edging, both giving and receiving. Has a lot of stamina so he can afford to edge or be edged for a long time as it would take a while for him to be done with sex anyways. Has a few items laying around, like silk blindfolds and leather whips, but has yet to try them out. He thinks the idea is hot though. Loves garter belts especially. Particularly interested in the art of shibari.

Nishikiyama Akira

Has the BIGGEST most giantest praise kink in the whole entire world. Loves kissing with tongue and totally goes nuts if you drool into his mouth. Total freak in the sheets, although he seldom shows this side in public. You can bite him but don't slap him, please. Hair pulling is fine though.

Daigo Dojima

So shy to admit it but he has a pregnancy/breeding kink. Daigo's always kind of knew he'd have a family eventually given how important family has always been to him but he's not ready for one yet, so in the meantime it's a great bedroom fantasy. Also loves car sex, will totally have sex with you in his private car. Very Beyonce's Partition of him.

Mine Yoshitaka

BDSM king, has quite an arsenal of toys and is very well educated on them. Biggest believer of making sure his partner has a good understanding of BDSM before ever trying it on them, as it's only fun for him if it's fun for you too. Loves making you beg. Will give you a pearl necklace if you're okay with it. Wants to try wax play someday.

Tatsuo Shinada

Honestly down with most anything but he does enjoy with spanked. Also has a pretty big praise kink. Desperately wants to try some form of outdoor sex, like on a rooftop. Most likely of all of the boys to take you to a love hotel. He finds the setting to be a turn on in of itself. Loves things like roleplay or costumes.

BONUS ROUND

Nishitani Homare

Actual knife-play kink. Also will choke the hell out of you. Type of guy to put his hand over your mouth to silence you. Wants you to get loud as hell. Overstimulation king. The most likely person to send you nudes, so don't open your phone in public when he texts you.

Tachibana Tetsu

Office sex. Any hour of the day. That's it, that's his favorite thing. Loves to tease you at the office too, probably the best at subtly teasing you in public in general. Into gagging, both giving and receiving. Fond of ball gags in particular.

[bl-bam-beyond]

KIMI TO NARA KOI WO SHITE MITE MO (2023, JAPAN)

Episode 2 Post 1 of 2

Kaido Amane (OKURA TAKATO) has come accustomed to smiling even though pain is often times behind the smile. But Yamasuge Ryuji (HYUGA WATARU) is all about being authentic and genuine and tells Amane he need not be that way with him.

Amane (and me I ain't gonna lie) is so bewitched by Ryuji that he can't keep his off of him. But Amane also believes falling in love is a recipe for pain.

Can Ryuji change his mind? Does Ryuji want to change his mind?

Amane has been forthright with his sexuality but Ryuji's sexuality hasn't been brought up...yet.

To Ryuji being kind is his personality but is this just him being kind? Or is his friendship with Amane a blossoming romance that will bring happiness to two young men.

@pose4photoml @lutawolf @bengiyo