#seru sans

[bnhaobservation]

Ramblings about the Todoroki family - Part 3: The girl who's like ice, Himura Rei and how she became Todoroki Rei

So this is part 3 of my ramblings about the Todoroki family. If you hadn’t read yet part 1 and part 2, and expecially the premise in it, I recommend you to do it otherwise you might get lost and not manage to work out how this series of meta is organized.

THE GIRL WHO’S LIKE ICE, HIMURA REI, AND HOW SHE BECAME TODOROKI REI (Chap. 31, 187, 301, 302 and 387 plus Ep. 130)

Canon information:

There’s little info about Rei before she became Todoroki Rei. We got more about her family, but, although I’ll quote that bit from the manga, I’ve already written a meta about the Himura family so I do prefer people to check it for the commentary, meta and cultural context about her family, instead than rewrite everything I said in it, so here I’ll focus just on the little we know about Rei pre-marriage.

She has an ice Quirk, which is why she catches Enji’s eyes, she come from a once prestigious family who had ended up in deep distress and came to a de facto end when Rei was sold to Enji.

The first time we hear her story is from Shōto in Chap. 31.

Todoroki Shōto ‘Kosei kon. Shitteru yo na. “Chōjō” ga okite kara dai ni~daisan sedai-kan de mondai ni natta yatsu… Jishin no “kosei” o yori kyōka shite tsuga seru tame dake ni haigūsha o erabi…… kekkon o shiiru. Rinri-kan no ketsuraku shita zenjidaiteki hassō. Jisseki to kane dake wa aru otoko da… Oyaji wa haha no shinzoku o marume komi haha no “kosei” o teni ireta. Ore o ALL MIGHT ijō no HERO ni sodate ageru koto de jishin no yokkyū o mitasōtte kotta.’ 轟焦凍「個性婚知ってるよな。〝超常〟が起きてから第二～第三世代間で問題になったやつ…自身の〝個性〟をより強化して継がせる為だけに配偶者を選び……結婚を強いる。倫理観の欠落した前時代的発想。実績と金だけはある男だ…親父は母の親族を丸め込み母の〝個性〟を手に入れた。俺をオールマイト以上のヒーローに育て上げることで自身の欲求を満たそうってこった。」 Todoroki Shōto “Quirk marriage. Do you know about it? After the ‘exceptional/supernatural’ happened, between the second and third generation they became a problem… In order to pass in inheritance a further strengthened version your “quirk” you choose a spouse… and get her married to you by force. Old-fashioned way of thinking which lacks in ethics. He’s a man with achievements and money… My father persuaded my mother’s relatives and obtained my mother’s “quirk”. Through raising me to be a Hero greater than All Might he wanted to fulfill his own desires.” [Chap. 31]

Later Tōya will also toss in his two cents on the marriage (Chap. 290 and 302).

Todoroki Tōya ‘ENDEAVOR wa katsute chikara ni kogarete imashita, soshite ALL MIGHT o koe renai zetsubō kara yori tsuyoi “kosei” o motta ko o tsukuru tame muriyari tsuma o metorimashita.’ 轟燈矢「エンデヴァーはかつて力に焦がれていました、そしてオールマイトを超えれない絶望からより強い〝個性〟を持った子を作る為無理やり妻を娶りました。」 Todoroki Tōya “Endeavor was once thirsty for power and, out of despair of not being able to surpass All Might, in order to create a child with a stronger “Quirk” he took a wife by force.” [Chap. 290]

Todoroki Tōya ‘Obā-chan-tachi ga binbō shitetakara Okā-san o uttan daro. Okā-san wa sōsuru shikanakattan daro.’ 轟燈矢「おばあちゃん達が貧乏してたからお母さんを売ったんだろ���お母さんはそうするしかなかったんだろ。」 Todoroki Tōya “Grandmother and the others were poor so they sold mother, isn’t that it? Mother had no choice but to do it, isn’t that it?” [Chap. 302]

Then we’ll get a quick glimpse of the Miai between Enji and Rei in which we actually see how the family head didn’t really need to be persuaded but seemed more than willing to jump at the chance to have his daughter marry Enji.

Rei no chichi ‘Jiki No.1 no yobi goe takai ENDEAVOR-sama kara o koe kake itadakeru to wa yume ni mo omoi masendeshita! Gyōkō no kiwami ni gozaimasu!! Himura mo katsute wa meika to yobareta yuisho aru iegara ni gozaimasu yue-- TOP HERO-sama no hanryo to shimashite wa jūbun ni tsuri ai ga toreru mono to--…’ 冷の父「次期No.1の呼び声高いエンデヴァー様からお声掛けいただけるとは夢にも思いませんでした！僥倖の極みにございます‼氷叢もかつては名家と呼ばれた由緒ある家柄にございます故──トップヒーロー様の伴侶としましては充分に釣り合いがとれるものと──…」 Rei’s father “I never dreamed that I would be approached by Endeavor-sama, who has been hailed as the next No. 1! We are at the height of luck!! The Himuras also come from a distinguished family with a prestigious lineage, so I think she would be a perfect match as the Top Hero-sama’s companion…” [Chap. 301]

When Enji will meet her, he thinks she’s a woman of ice, a strong one for the matter, but later realizes that she can easily melt.

Todoroki Enji ‘Kōri no yōna onna datta. “Kosei kon” dearu koto mo shōchi no ue de…… Ie no tame ni ore no tsuma ni naru to iu. Tsuyoku─────… shikashi furereba tokete kiete shimai sō na─────…’ 轟炎司「（氷のような女だった。〝個性婚〟である事も承知の上で……家の為に俺の妻になると言う。強く─────…しかし触れれば溶けて消えてしまいそうな─────…）」 Todoroki Enji “(She was a woman of ice. She knew that it was a “Quirk marriage”… but she said she would become my wife for her family’s sake. She was strong… but if she were to be touched, she would melt and disappear…)” [Chap. 301]

The anime gives us more info about the Miai and Enji’s intentions.

Todoroki Enji ‘(Ichiō, miai to iu katachi o totte wa iruga, koreha “kosei kon”. Jishin no “kosei” o yori kyōka shite tsuga seru tame ni haigūsha o erabi, kodomo o uma seru tame no kekkon. Ore wa nozonda noda. Ore no honō no “kosei” to kōri himura-ke ichizoku no kōri no “kosei” ga majiwareba, ALL MIGHT o mo koeru HERO ga umidaseru to. Katsute wa meikadatta Himura-ke mo ima wa aoikitoiki… No.2 HERO no chii to meiyo, soshite jisankin meate ni Himura-ke no tōshu wa ore no teian o assari to ukeireta. Kotowaru koto mo dekita hazuda. Daga kanojo wa “kosei” kondearu koto mo shōchi no ue de, ie no tame ni ore no tsuma ni naru to iu.)’ 轟炎司「（一応、見合いという形をとってはいるが、これは〝個性〟婚。自身の〝個性〟をより強化して継がせるために配偶者を選び、子どもを産ませる為の結婚。俺は望んだのだ。俺の炎の〝個性〟と氷叢家一族の氷の〝個性〟が交われば、オールマイトをも超えるヒーローが生み出せると。かつては名家だった氷叢家も今は青息吐息…No.2ヒーローの地位と名誉、そして持参金目当てに氷叢家の当主は俺の提案をあっさりと受け入れた。断る事もできたハズだ。だが彼女は〝個性〟婚である事も承知の上で、家の為に俺の妻になると言う。）」 Todoroki Enji “(Just in case, although it was made to look like an arranged marriage meeting, this was a “Quirk marriage”. A marriage to have children in which the spouse is chosen in order to strengthen and pass on one’s “Quirk”. I wanted it. If my fire “Quirk” and the ice “Quirk” of the Himura family were combined, I could create a hero that would surpass All Might. The Himura family, which was once a prestigious family, was now in deep distress… The head of the Himura family easily accepted my proposal, aiming for the status and prestige of the No. 2 hero, as well as the dowry. She could have refused. However, even if she was aware that it was a “Quirk” marriage, she said that she would become my wife for her family’s sake.)” [Ep. 130]

As for Rei she’ll claim the choice to marry Enji was her own.

Todoroki Rei ‘(Sentakushi wa kagirarete ita keredo erande susunda no wa watashi no ashi de───── semete sono sakide wa waratte iyou to omotte ita no ni───…)’ 轟冷「（選択肢は限られていたけれど選んで進んだのは私の足で─────せめてその先では笑っていようと思っていたのに───…）」 Todoroki Rei “(Although my options were limited, I chose to move forward with my own feet─────At least from now on I’ll try to smile, that’s what I was thinking─────…)” [Chap. 302]

We see a bit of their first date in which all we learn is Rei likes flowers, or more specifically Gentians.

Todoroki Enji ‘……’ 轟炎司「……」 Todoroki Enji “…”

Todoroki Rei ‘……’ 轟冷「……」 Todoroki Rei “…”

Todoroki Enji ‘…… Hana ga suki ka.’ 轟炎司「……花が好きか。」 Todoroki Enji “Do you like (those) flowers?”

Todoroki Rei ‘Hai. Totemo kirei.’ 轟冷「はい。とても綺麗。 」 Todoroki Rei “Yes, they are very beautiful.” [Chap. 301]

We know it’s their first date and also their first meeting due to this previous bit.

Todoroki Rei ‘Kono ohana watashi ga sukitte itta no. Hajimete atta koro tatta ichido.’ 轟冷「このお花私が好きって言ったの。初めて会った頃たった一度。」 Todoroki Rei “I told him I like/love these flowers. Only once, when we first met.” [Chap. 187]

Then we have a huge wall of information about the Himura family, courtesy of Geten.

Geten ‘Himura wa chi ga koinda. Furuku kara no shōya datta Himura wa nōchi kaikaku go mo bunke o fuyasu koto de zai to PRIDE o nantoka tamotte kita. Demo chōjō ga okiru to tomoni kasokudoteki ni reiraku shite itta. Chi ga mazaru no o kirattanda.’ 外典「火叢は血が濃いんだ。古くからの庄屋だった火叢は農地改革後も分家を増やす事で財とプライドをなんとか保ってきた。でも超常が起きると共に加速度的に零落していった。血が混ざるのを嫌ったんだ。」 Geten “The Himura blood runs thick. The Himura, who were village heads from long ago, managed to maintain their wealth and pride even after the land reform by increasing the number of branch families. But as the exceptional/supernatural happened, things (for them) started falling down at an accelerating rate. They hated mixing their blood.”

Geten ‘Kekka bunke… tōen dōshi de no kekkon ga aitsuida.’ 外典「結果分家…遠縁同士での結婚が相次いだ。」 Geten “As a result, the branch families… had marriages among distant relatives which occurred one after another.”

Geten ‘Mizukara o heisoku kankyō ni oki Himura-ke wa shukushō no itto o tadori. Tōtō honke ga miuri o hajimeta koto de jijitsujō no shūen o mukaeta. Nokori no wazuka na shizoku mo risan shi sono naka no hitotsu datta boku wa saikōshidō-sha (read: RE-DESTRO) ni hirowa reta.’ 外典「自らを閉塞環境に置き火叢家は縮小の一途を辿り。とうとう本家が身売りを始めたことで事実上の終焉を迎えた。残りの僅かな氏族も離散しその中の一つだった僕は最高指導者(リ・デストロ)に拾われた。」 Geten “As a result of placing themselves in a closed environment, the Himura family steadily shrank. When finally the main family started selling themselves, it came to a de facto end. Even the few remaining clans are scattered, and I was among them and then picked up by the supreme leader (read: Re-Destro).” [Chap. 387]

Something else?

Originally she was planned to have a boyfriend before Enji were to approach her but we don’t know if Horikoshi kept this part from her prototype or axed it, as in canon it never comes up. Alter all, in the prototype, it seems it’s due to how she was forced to part from her boyfriend that she came to hate Shōto’s left side (in the prototype Shōto hated her back) and ended up going insane and scarring him.

Cultural corner:

Kekkon (結婚 “marriage”): for a long time in Japan marriages weren’t out of love but out of interest as the marriage had to be beneficial to the family of the future newly-weds. Actually it was believed if one were to choose a partner due to love… well, this would make for a poor marriage (a common way to say was “Those who come together in passion, stay together in tears”). Even nowadays only the 70% of marriages in Japan is a love marriage while the rest are the more traditional arranged marriages. The fact that Enji and Rei marry not out of love but solely because it would be beneficial to them/their families is therefore seen as a possible reason to marry in Japan as long as both Rei and Enji agree to it.

Miai (見合い “matchmaking”, lit. “look meet”): it’s a Japanese traditional custom in which a woman and a man are introduced to each other to consider the possibility of marriage. Taking information about the potential spouse and his/her family before the Miai not only is perfectly fine but it’s usually part of the whole custom as usually a ‘nakōdo’ (仲人 “go-between”) presents the family with photos of potential candidates and their personal history (as well as info on their family) for the family to select among them before deciding to organize the Miai. Usually the potential spouse checks them with his mother. The fact Enji’s mother is never shown can be seen as a hint she’s dead.

Yūseigaku (優生学 “eugenics” or “science of superior birth”): it’s a set of beliefs and practices that aim to improve the genetic quality of a human population. While Japan tackled the problem mostly by forcing sterilization or abortion for criminal and people with mental illness or genetic transmissible diseases (or who were exposed to radiations) with a law that existed from 1948 to 1996, Japan also considered marriage between the right candidates as a way to produce better offspring. In fact after Japan was forced to drop its isolationist politic (1868) some promoted the idea that the Japanese race should produce superior descendants through ‘kokusai kekkon’ (国際結婚 “international marriages”), in short by basically having mixed marriages between Japanese and Westerners… however in between the two world wars Japanese people were instead encouraged to marry other pure-blooded Japanese so as to preserve the purity of the race. It’s worth to mention that in Miai the candidates and their families are judged on a large set of criteria aimed at determining the suitability and the balance of the marriage… and said criteria include also if the family has a history of genetically transmissible diseases or mental illness as well as the bloodline of the candidate. There’s also to wonder if Horikoshi took inspiration for his Quirk marriages by the international marriages… while the Himuras wanting to marry among themselves were inspired by the pure-blood culture… but that’s up to speculation.

Sanjū Shitoku (三従四徳 “The three obediences and four virtues”): a set of moral principles and social code of behavior for maidens and married women in East Asian Confucianism. In specific the three obediences instruct that a woman is obligated not to act on her own initiative and, at home, she must submissively obey or follow her father’s orders before getting married, her husband’s after getting married, and her sons’ after her husband’s death. In short, in addition to filial piety, women were also expected to follow those rules.

Giri no haha (義理の母 “mother-in-law”) and giri no musume (義理の娘 “daughter-in-law”): In traditional Japan, the daughter-in-law was supposed to provide care but also to obey to the mother-in-law. It wasn’t just the virtuous thing to do, in the past divorces were commonly initiated not by the husband but by the mother-in-law and so, if she failed to satisfy the mother-in law, the bride would be sent back home in disgrace. Nowadays things are better (previously the mother-in-law could see the daughter-in-law as little more than a servant if she so wished, as the mother-in-law had primary authority) but the mother-in-law is still seen one step above the daughter-in-law.

Rindō (リンドウ “Gentian”): The most common one in Japan is the ‘gentiana scabra’ or Japanese gentian or just Rindō (リンドウ) which, in Japan, blossom from September to November so it can be the one Rei received when the JP Hero Billboard Chart took place (November)… but during the date Rei seems a tad more overdressed for someone who should have a body that handles cold well if we are in that time of the year. We also have the ‘gentiana zollingeri’ or Fude Rindō (フデリンドウ) which blossom from April to May and the ‘gentiana thunbergii’ or Haru Rindō (ハルリンドウ) which blossom from March to May and therefore could be the type of Gentian Rei had during the Paranormal Liberation War arc, which takes place in March (as Enji likely bought it from a greenhouse and there they can blossom a little earlier it is possible for him to buy the ‘gentiana zollingeri’)… but again, this doesn’t seem the time during which the date takes place.

Yamato nadeshiko (やまとなでしこ or 大和撫子 lit: “Japanese carnation” or “Japanese caressable child/Japanese beloved child”): a Japanese term meaning the “personification of an idealized Japanese woman”. It’s supposed to possess grace and beauty but also inner strength. She exhibits delicacy and deference, as well as quiet determination. Both dignified and modest, she is believed to embody characteristics of delicacy and fragility, as well as elegance and sturdiness. Though outwardly submissive and obedient, she is internally strong. Her life revolves around acting for the benefit of her family, following instructions or acting in the best interests of the family head. Virtues include loyalty, domestic skills, wisdom, and humility as well as the ability to endure whatever life might ask of her. Noble Japanese women who were raised in wealthy/prestigious households learned proper etiquette and Confucian ideology so as to become Yamato nadeshiko. Although the Himura were poor, they were prestigious so very likely Rei was also raised in this way.

Yuki-onna (雪女 “snow woman”): is a spirit or yōkai (妖怪 “strange apparition”) of Japanese folklore that is often depicted in Japanese literature, films, or animation. She’s supposed to be beautiful, very pale and calm. It’s probably a coincidence but in one legend she’s supposed to say ‘Koori gose yu gose’ (氷ごせ湯ごせ “Give me ice, give me hot water”) and disappear when she’s splashed with hot water, which seems a reference to Rei’s Quirk and to how she burned Shōto with hot water and then was hospitalized, basically disappearing from the Todoroki house.

Otto (夫 “husband”) and tsuma (妻 “wife”): in Japan, although things are changing, the role of the husband is just to work hard and provide for the money. He’s hardly at home, spending his time working by day and, in the evening, drinking with his boss and colleagues. Sometimes he’s also expected to have other social interactions with them like going to play golf with them. The role of the wife is instead to take care of the house and the children as well as to administer the family money (the husband gets an allowance according to how she sees fit). She’s however supposed to obey to her husband in all the other things and not complain whatever he does. For example if she were to ask for a divorce because he cheats on her, it would be seen as shameful FOR HER (never mentioning in Japan is very difficult to obtain a divorce if your partner doesn’t agree to it). Mind you, things are changing so this isn’t anymore a perfect depiction of how husband and wife are, but it’s still prevalent enough.

As said before, for a cultural corner related to the info we have about the Himura family I’ll ask you to check my Himura family post.

Doylist commentary:

Horikoshi apparently doesn’t tell us much about Rei’s past, but in the little Enji says about her we might miss some details that might instead be more evident to Japanese readers due to their culture. In fact Enji’s description of her seems to imply he sees her as a Yamato Nadeshiko, an ideal of Japanese womanhood, which is at the same time delicate and strong and would sacrifice for the family (as well as follow the three obediences)…

Todoroki Enji ‘Kōri no yōna onna datta. “Kosei kon” dearu koto mo shōchi no ue de…… Ie no tame ni ore no tsuma ni naru to iu. Tsuyoku─────… shikashi furereba tokete kiete shimai sō na─────…’ 轟炎司「（氷のような女だった。〝個性婚〟である事も承知の上で……家の為に俺の妻になると言う。強く─────…しかし触れれば溶けて消えてしまいそうな─────…）」 Todoroki Enji “(She was a woman of ice. She knew that it was a “Quirk marriage”… but she said she would become my wife for her family’s sake. She was strong… but if she were to be touched, she would melt and disappear…)” [Chap. 301]

…but of course, if we’re not familiar with what a Yamato Nadeshiko is, we miss the implication.

The whole ‘woman of ice’ also might be a reference to how Rei seemed cold and impassible, her face expressionless when he first met her, but might also be a reference to a Yuki-onna.

There are however oddities in the whole thing that seem to imply to a retcon in Rei’s backstory.

The most important one is that both Shōto and Tōya portray Rei’s family as forced by Enji to sell her off.

Todoroki Shōto ‘Jisseki to kane dake wa aru otoko da… Oyaji wa haha no shinzoku o marume komi haha no “kosei” o teni ireta.’ 轟焦凍「実績と金だけはある男だ…親父は母の親族を丸め込み母の〝個性〟を手に入れた。」 Todoroki Shōto “He’s a man with achievements and money… My father persuaded my mother’s relatives and obtained my mother’s “quirk”.” [Chap. 31]

In Chap. 31 Shōto, to say Enji persuaded Rei’s family, uses ‘marume komi’ (丸め込み), which seems to have a not so positive implication, as it’s used to imply you managed to talk someone into doing what you want, as if the Himuras didn’t really want to let Rei marry him and needed to be persuaded.

Todoroki Tōya ‘ENDEAVOR wa katsute chikara ni kogarete imashita, soshite ALL MIGHT o koe renai zetsubō kara yori tsuyoi “kosei” o motta ko o tsukuru tame muriyari tsuma o metorimashita.’ 轟燈矢「エンデヴァーはかつて力に焦がれていました、そしてオールマイトを超えれない絶望からより強い〝個性〟を持った子を作る為無理やり妻を娶りました。」 Todoroki Tōya “Endeavor was once thirsty for power and, out of despair of not being able to surpass All Might, in order to create a child with a stronger “Quirk” he took a wife by force.” [Chap. 290]

In Chap. 290 Tōya instead uses ‘muriyari’ (無理やり), which means “forcibily, against one’s will” so he paints an even darker picture.

Then… with Chap. 301/302, this is kind of turned over.

In fact, in chap 301, we see how Rei’s father looks more delighted than forced/in need to be persuaded when he meets Enji, the anime even remarking this more by painting the family head grinning as he interacted with Enji, Enji doing hardly any work of persuasion, as he’s not even shown speaking as the Himura family head talks of how honored they are he approached them and how Rei will be an appropriate bride for him.

Also later, in chap 302, Tōya, despite claiming his mother had no choices (しかなかった ‘shikanakatta’), with Rei not correcting him, will now place the blame on his grandparents being poor (so Rei had to marry Enji to help them) and therefore deciding to sell Rei (売る ‘uru’), and not on his father persuading them (as Shōto said) or forcing her as he said before.

Todoroki Tōya ‘Obā-chan-tachi ga binbō shitetakara Okā-san o uttan daro. Okā-san wa sōsuru shikanakattan daro.’ 轟燈矢「おばあちゃん達が貧乏してたからお母さんを売ったんだろ。お母さんはそうするしかなかったんだろ。」 Todoroki Tōya “Grandmother and the others were poor so they sold mother, isn’t that it? Mother had no choice but to do it, isn’t that it?” [Chap. 302]

This greatly shift the blame of Rei being sold on her parents, as hadn’t Enji not shown up, they would have probably handed her off to someone else… never mentioning what will be revealed much later, in chap 387, when it’ll turn out Rei was never meant to marry for love, as the Himura were used to marry among them.

Geten ‘Himura wa chi ga koinda. Furuku kara no shōya datta Himura wa nōchi kaikaku go mo bunke o fuyasu koto de zai to PRIDE o nantoka tamotte kita. Demo chōjō ga okiru to tomoni kasokudoteki ni reiraku shite itta. Chi ga mazaru no o kirattanda. Kekka bunke… tōen dōshi de no kekkon ga aitsuida. Mizukara o heisoku kankyō ni oki Himura-ke wa shukushō no itto o tadori. Tōtō honke ga miuri o hajimeta koto de jijitsujō no shūen o mukaeta. Nokori no wazuka na shizoku mo risan shi sono naka no hitotsu datta boku wa saikōshidō-sha (read: RE-DESTRO) ni hirowa reta.’ 外典「火叢は血が濃いんだ。古くからの庄屋だった火叢は農地改革後も分家を増やす事で財とプライドをなんとか保ってきた。でも超常が起きると共に加速度的に零落していった。血が混ざるのを嫌ったんだ。結果分家…遠縁同士での結婚が相次いだ。自らを閉塞環境に置き火叢家は縮小の一途を辿り。とうとう本家が身売りを始めたことで事実上の終焉を迎えた。残りの僅かな氏族も離散しその中の一つだった僕は最高指導者(リ・デストロ)に拾われた。」 Geten “The Himura blood runs thick. The Himura, who were village heads from long ago, managed to maintain their wealth and pride even after the land reform by increasing the number of branch families. But as the exceptional/supernatural happened, things (for them) started falling down at an accelerating rate. They hated mixing their blood. As a result, the branch families… had marriages among distant relatives which occurred one after another. As a result of placing themselves in a closed environment, the Himura family steadily shrank. When finally the main family started selling themselves, it came to a de facto end. Even the few remaining clans are scattered, and I was among them and then picked up by the supreme leader (read: Re-Destro).” [Chap. 387]

While Geten calls Rei marrying an outsider ‘the main family starting to sell themselves’, the implication seems to be Rei’s parents would have always decided who was going to be Rei’s husband… but this seems denied by Rei herself.

In fact in chap 301 she claims it wasn’t like her opinion never mattered. Rei had the option to refuse but she accepted for her family’s sake.

Todoroki Enji “Kosei kon” dearu koto mo shōchi no ue de…… Ie no tame ni ore no tsuma ni naru to iu.’ 轟炎司「（〝個性婚〟である事も承知の上で……家の為に俺の妻になると言う。）」 Todoroki Enji “(She knew that it was a “Quirk marriage”… but she said she would become my wife for her family’s sake.)” [Chap. 301]

The anime too remarks how Enji’s proposal was easily accepted by her parents (so Enji didn’t need to talk her parents into it as Shōto instead said) and how Rei could have refused (so she wasn’t forced by him to accept as Tōya said).

Todoroki Enji ‘(No.2 HERO no chii to meiyo, soshite jisankin meate ni Himura-ke no tōshu wa ore no teian o assari to ukeireta. Kotowaru koto mo dekita hazuda. Daga kanojo wa “kosei” kondearu koto mo shōchi no ue de, ie no tame ni ore no tsuma ni naru to iu.)’ 轟炎司「（No.2ヒーローの地位と名誉、そして持参金目当てに氷叢家の当主は俺の提案をあっさりと受け入れた。断る事もできたハズだ。だが彼女は〝個性〟婚である事も承知の上で、家の為に俺の妻になると言う。）」Todoroki Enji “(The head of the Himura family easily accepted my proposal, aiming for the status and prestige of the No. 2 hero, as well as the dowry. She could have refused. However, even if she was aware that it was a “Quirk” marriage, she said that she would become my wife for her family’s sake.)” [Ep. 130]

And it’s not just Enji who says so; Rei herself will claim the choice to marry Enji was her own… which matches with Japanese laws (arranged marriages can’t be done if the candidates don’t both consent).

Todoroki Rei ‘(Sentakushi wa kagirarete ita keredo erande susunda no wa watashi no ashi de───── semete sono sakide wa waratte iyou to omotte ita no ni───…)’ 轟冷「（選択肢は限られていたけれど選んで進んだのは私の足で─────せめてその先では笑っていようと思っていたのに───…）」 Todoroki Rei “(Although my options were limited, I chose to move forward with my own feet─────At least from now on I’ll try to smile, that’s what I was thinking─────…)” [Chap. 302]

Now, credits when it’s due, the idea here might be that the family actually gave her the option to marry a Himura, Enji, or some other rich guy, hence her options were limited but she could make her pick, and Rei might have felt psychologically ‘forced’ to marry among the candidates chosen by her parents due to filial piety and duty of obedience, even if not physically forced to do so. We can’t really say if Enji was her parents’ favorite candidate (we don’t know if she had other suitors who were more or equally prestigious and rich), so they influenced her choice, or she thought he would be her best pick among the candidates presented to her.

Still, in order to be good to her poor parents, she chose to marry Enji… but still this paints a completely different picture than the one Shōto first and Tōya later painted, as Enji isn’t really working hard to persuade her parents or forcing Rei’s hand, he made a proposition and came clean to his intentions of having a Quirk marriage and the ones who’re really to blame are Rei’s parents.

Interesting enough in the prototype it seems more like Rei was forced into a marriage, as the prototype version says she had a boyfriend/lover (愛人 ‘koibito’), meaning she had to give up on that person to marry Enji, which would fit more with the idea of her being forced and her family needing to be persuaded, where the manga instead never mention her having a previous love interest.

So again, we get a feeling the story changed track in regard to how unfair it was the marriage toward Rei (as now she had some options), and on how much Enji was to blame for it (as now the Himuras needed zero persuasion to switch from selling her to a poor, distant relative to selling her to the rich and prestigious number two, Rei gave her consent and, anyway, if she hadn’t, she would have to marry a relative or, possibly, another rich candidate) and so it can be the whole thing was retconned again to paint a less negative picture of Enji.

Something else I found odd, but that might not mean anything, is that usually girls who come from prestigious families (even poor ones) become wives who dress in a traditional fashion, with kimono and all (think for example to the main character of ‘Ai Yori Aoshi’ (藍より青し “Bluer Than Indigo”)), while Rei is shown in jeans and t-shirt or skirt and t-shirt. It’s a stereotype, it’s not necessarily a truth of life, but it still makes me think that the plan for the Himura to be a prestigious, traditional family was something Horikoshi came up with later, and that likely he originally envisioned Rei as coming from a family of poor commoners and then he switched to a prestigious family.

Last but not least… Rei is shown as heavily dressed for her first walk with Enji (she has a jacket and a scarf) despite having a body better suited for the cold, which seems to imply it should be winter but… gentians are blossoming meaning it’s either spring or autumn. The anime seems to outright go for a warmer season as it leaves the window open (in the manga it was closed) so maybe it was a mistake to dress Rei so heavily (Enji is comparatively much less dressed as he’s only wearing a suit).

As for the Himura backstory, it sure is interesting but it’s clearly placed at that point more to explain why Tōya too ended up on having an ice Quirk (the Himura blood is just that thickthat whoever has it can’t help but have a ice Quirk) than to enrich Rei’s backstory (or Geten’s) with details. Yeah, they benefit from the addition too (the story becomes also explanation why Geten joined Re-Destro) but it doesn’t really seem about them or for them, but feels as a narrative expedient to explain/excuse a sudden and not foreshadowed surprise.

It’s not bad, however again, it feels poorly foreshadowed.

It was Shōto himself who introduced the Quirk marriages, but claimed they started becoming a problem during the second or third generation, stating those earlier generations were lacking in ethic (Shōto is probably a fifth generation as Midoriya). Well, it turns out the Himura always did Quirk marriages, albeit, differently from his father, as they didn’t want to mix their Quirk with other Quirks, but strengthening/preserving their own ice Quirk as well as their blood. Shōto though, blames only his father to do as those old generations, which seems to imply his mother’s side wasn’t doing the same.

The result is that the whole Himura family’s past seems more like a spur of the moment idea, more than something planned… or, at least, to me it feels like that.

Something else worth mentioning is through the story we’ll never learn about Enji’s mother, very likely because it spared Horikoshi from drawing her which is fair… but it’s still a pity.

Last but not least, in the anime only monologue there’s probably a mistake.

Todoroki Enji ‘(No.2 HERO no chii to meiyo, soshite jisankin meate ni Himura-ke no tōshu wa ore no teian o assari to ukeireta.)’ 轟炎司「（No.2ヒーローの地位と名誉、そして持参金目当てに氷叢家の当主は俺の提案をあっさりと受け入れた。）」 Todoroki Enji “(The head of the Himura family easily accepted my proposal, aiming for the status and prestige of the No. 2 hero, as well as the dowry.)” [Ep. 130]

‘Jisankin’ (持参金) means “dowry” but the dowry is an amount of property or money brought by the bride to her husband on their marriage (it can also be called ‘kashi’ (嫁資)).What the husband pays to the bride’s family instead is called ‘konshi’ (婚資) or ‘yuinōkin’ (結納金), both meaning “betrothal money”. In some cases the “betrothal money” can be an amount big enough to surpass the “dowry” (so basically the groom pays for the dowry and then some more), but it would have still made more sense for the dialogue to say the Himura wanted the “betrothal money”, not the “dowry”.

Watsonian commentary:

So, instead than trying to find a companion he could love and that would love him back, or waiting for when he’ll meet one, Enji decides to marry a woman who can give him an offspring that could help him fulfill his ambitions and erase his inferiority complex as well as his dark feelings all in one single blow.

Mind you, as I said in the cultural corner, in Japan people is okay with marriages not done out of love, but it’s no more AGAINST marriages done out of love. Enji doesn’t have a family pressuring him to marry Rei. It’s just he thinks he’ll feel better if he’ll have the kind of heir he wants, instead than if he’ll choose his companion according to what he feels for such person or, at least, personal compatibility.

It speaks of a man who doesn’t know the value of emotional relations, who’s completely obsessed with his own goal.

His father died when he was a middle-schooler… which means if his mother was alive he might have had memories of their relation. Either she died earlier than his father, or their relation wasn’t the sort one also wishes to have for himself. If his parents too married for convenience and not out of love, it might have made easier for Enji to follow that same path.

Now, as said in the Doylist commentary, likely Enji’s mother wasn’t included for practical reasons, but, in a Watsonian commentary, the most ergonomic explanation for her absence at the Miai (normally the mother of the potential groom would be very involved with it) as well as in Enji’s home (as said before, the firstborn take over the family house and then, due to filial piety, is supposed to take care of his aging parents and, since Enji’s mother is a widow and Enji’s house is big enough for it, it would have made even more sense for her to live with her son and educate Rei to the rules of the house), is that she’s dead.

What’s more, if his mother died early on, before his father did, this could have had unpleasant psychological consequences that lead to the character Enji has, in fact an early loss of his mother can cause in a child low self-worth, emotional dysregulation (as in difficulties in managing emotions which can lead to outbursts or withdrawal) and a general insecurity in relationships, which might have pushed him to prefer a relationship based on interest than one based on feelings.

Long story short, Enji’s ‘weakness’, unknown to him, could have had its psychological roots in his lack of mother figure, though he realized of his weakness only when his father died and he failed to act.

Of course all this doesn’t exactly make him a well balanced guy who can be considered an ideal husband.

Rei is in no better position.

There’s no freedom to marry who you love in her family, traditionally the Himura marry among relatives, and when the Himura ends up being poor they’re all to sell her to the best offering.

Legally the family head, which is also Rei’s father (according to the anime the guy with Enji and Rei at the Miai is the family head and Rei’s father... but just so you know, the fact that the two are one and the same isn’t mandatory) couldn’t have forced Rei to marry the potential husband he favored, and Rei claims she had options, albeit limited ones, but likely they were to chose among the candidates her family picked for her as filial piety and the duty to obey to her parents likely pressured her not to say ’no’ to the whole thing.

In the end Rei chose economical stability for her birth family over the continuation of the Himura family line and she tried to be happy with her choice.

Maybe it wasn’t she just chose economical stability, maybe she thought since Enji showed interest in what she liked, asking her if she liked flowers, this could mean he would be a good husband. Maybe the other candidates didn’t even ask her that much.

Still, in making this choice, she basically agrees with Enji’s plan to have children he can use to fulfill his ambitions, she ‘sacrifices’ them (as well as herself) to help her own previous family.

Honestly I don’t think she thought she would ‘sacrifice’ her children, she likely didn’t expect things to go that bad… but she probably also expected her own children to act like her, do what they must for the well being of their birth family (read: to satisfy their father).

She was clearly raised to obey and sacrifice herself for her own family, and she has likely assumed it was fair to expect her own children would do the same because that’s how she was taught the world works. Not only she likely didn’t expect Tōya would end up being incompatible with his Quirk, but also that, once Tōya was told by his parents he couldn’t train or become a Hero, Tōya would resist them and continue training. Obeying to her birth family, sacrificing herself for it, was probably so natural for her she didn’t even realize it until Tōya slams on her face she’s also responsible for his situation.

There’s to wonder how the Himuras see Enji. Despite all their flattering when he approached the Himura, there’s no hint whatsoever Enji is also from a prestigious family, the Himura family head praising solely the position he has reached as a Hero, not his family history.

Enji has a big house (although smaller than the Himuras… at least in the anime), yes, but he might have bought that later, it might not be his birth home.

So, despite Enji’s position and money which allows him to buy Rei and to have an impressively big house, the Himura might look down at him as just a commoner who got successful and rich but nothing more.

Anyway… if things had gone well… Enji and Rei would have probably been fine regardless of being two people who clearly didn’t have the best psychological background.

Rei would have played her part as perfect wife and mother, obeying Enji and taking care of the house and children and Enji would have played his part as perfect husband, working hard so as to provide money for his family and raising his own heir the way he wanted to.

Problems came though, and, with them, the balance the two of them had came crashing down… but we’ll see it in the next part.

That’s all for this part. Please stay tuned for the next!

[awardseason]

21st Annual Visual Effects Society Awards — Film Winners

Outstanding Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature Avatar: The Way of Water – Richard Baneham, Walter Garcia, Joe Letteri, Eric Saindon, JD Schwalm — WINNER Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore – Christian Mänz, Olly Young, Benjamin Loch, Stephane Naze, Alistair Williams Jurassic World: Dominion – David Vickery, Ann Podlozny, Jance Rubinchik, Dan Snape, Paul Corbould The Batman – Dan Lemmon, Bryan Searing, Russell Earl, Anders Langlands, Dominic Tuohy Top Gun: Maverick – Ryan Tudhope, Paul Molles, Seth Hill, Bryan Litson, Scott Fisher

Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature Death on the Nile – George Murphy, Claudia Dehmel, Mathieu Raynault, Jonathan Bowen, David Watkins I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Paul Norris, Tim Field, Don Libby, Andrew Simmonds The Fabelmans – Pablo Helman, Jennifer Mizener, Cernogorods Aleksei, Jeff Kalmus, Mark Hawker The Gray Man – Swen Gilberg, Viet Luu, Bryan Grill, Cliff Welsh, Michael Meinardus The Pale Blue Eye – Jake Braver, Catherine Farrell, Tim Van Horn, Scott Pritchard, Jeremy Hays Thirteen Lives – Jason Billington, Thomas Horton, Denis Baudin, Michael Harrison, Brian Cox — WINNER

Outstanding Visual Effects in an Animated Feature Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio – Aaron Weintraub, Jeffrey Schaper, Cameron Carson, Emma Gorbey, Mad God, Chris Morley, Phil Tippett, Ken Rogerson, Tom Gibbons — WINNER Strange World – Steve Goldberg, Laurie Au, Mark Hammel, Mehrdad Isvandi The Bad Guys– Pierre Perifel, Damon Ross, Matt Baer, JP Sans The Sea Beast – Joshua Beveridge, Christian Hejnal, Stirling Duguid, Spencer Lueders Turning Red – Domee Shi, Lindsey Collins, Danielle Feinberg, Dave Hale

Outstanding Animated Character in a Photoreal Feature  Avatar: The Way of Water: Kiri – Anneka Fris, Rebecca Louise Leybourne, Guillaume Francois, Jung-Rock Hwang — WINNER Beast: Lion – Alvise Avati, Bora Şahin, Chris McGaw, Krzysztof Boyoko Disney’s Pinocchio: Honest John – Christophe Paradis, Valentina Rosselli, Armita Khanlarpour, Kyoungmin Kim Slumberland: Pig – Fernando Lopes Herrera, Victor Dinis, Martine Chartrand, Lucie Martinetto

Outstanding Animated Character in an Animated Feature Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio: Geppetto – Charles Greenfield, Peter Saunders, Shami Lang-Rinderspacher, Noel Estevez-Baker Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio: Pinocchio – Oliver Beale, Richard Pickersgill, Brian Leif Hansen, Kim Slate — WINNER Strange World: Splat – Leticia Gillett, Cameron Black, Dan Lipson, Louis Jones Turning Red: Panda Mei – Christopher Bolwyn, Ethan Dean, Bill Sheffler, Kureha Yokoo

Outstanding Created Environment in a Photoreal Feature Avatar: The Way of Water: Metkayina Village – Ryan Arcus, Lisa Hardisty, Paul Harris TaeHyoung David Kim Avatar: The Way of Water: The Reef – Jessica Cowley, Joe W. Churchill, Justin Stockton, Alex Nowotny — WINNER Jurassic World Dominion: Biosyn Valley – Steve Ellis, Steve Hardy, Thomas Dohlen, John Seru Slumberland: The Wondrous Cuban Hotel Dream – Daniël Dimitri Veder, Marc Austin, Pavan Rajesh Uppu, Casey Gorton

Outstanding Created Environment in an Animated Feature Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio: In the Stomach of a Sea Monster – Warren Lawtey, Anjum Sakharkar, Javier Gonzalez Alonso, Quinn Carvalho — WINNER Lightyear: T’Kani Prime Forest – Lenora Acidera, Amy Allen, Alyssa Minko, Jose L. Ramos Serrano Strange World: The Windy Jungle – Ki Jong Hong, Ryan Smith, Jesse Erickson, Benjamin Fiske The Sea Beast: The Hunting Ship – Yohan Bang, Enoch Ihde, Denil George Chundangal, John Wallace Wendell & Wild: The Scream Fair – Tom Proost, Nicholas Blake, Colin Babcock, Matthew Paul Albertus Cross

Outstanding Virtual Cinematography in a CG Project ABBA: Voyage – Pär M. Ekberg, John Galloway, Paolo Acri, Jose Burgos Avatar: The Way of Water – Richard Baneham, Dan Cox, Eric Reynolds, A.J Briones — WINNER Prehistoric Planet – Daniel Fotheringham, Krzysztof Szczepanski, Wei-Chuan Hsu, Claire Hill The Batman: Rain Soaked Car Chase – Dennis Yoo, Michael J. Hall, Jason Desjarlais, Ben Bigiel

Outstanding Model in a Photoreal or Animated Project Avatar: The Way of Water: The Sea Dragon – Sam Sharplin, Stephan Skorepa, Ian Baker, Guillaume Francois — WINNER The Sea Beast – Maxx Okazaki, Susan Kornfeld, Edward Lee, Doug Smith Top Gun: Maverick: F-14 Tomcat – Christian Peck, Klaudio Ladavac, Aram Jung, Peter Dominik Wendell & Wild: Dream Faire – Peter Dahmen, Paul Harrod, Nicholas Blake

Outstanding Effects Simulation in a Photoreal Feature Avatar: The Way of Water: Fire and Destruction – Miguel Perez Senent, Xavier Martin Ramirez, David Kirchner, Ole Geir Eidsheim Avatar: The Way of Water: Water Simulations – Johnathan M. Nixon, David Moraton, Nicolas Illingworth, David Caeiro Cebrian — WINNER Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: City Street Flooding – Matthew Hanger, Alexis Hall, Hang Yang, Mikel Zuloaga Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore – Jesse Parker Holmes, Grayden Solman, Toyokazu Hirai, Rob Richardson

Outstanding Effects Simulation in an Animated Feature Lightyear – Alexis Angelidis, Chris Chapman, Jung-Hyun Kim, Keith Klohn Puss in Boots: The Last Wish – Derek Cheung, Michael Losure, Kiem Ching Ong, Jinguang Huang — WINNER Strange World – Deborah Carlson, Scott Townsend, Stuart Griese, Yasser Hamed The Sea Beast – Spencer Lueders, Dmitriy Kolesnik, Brian D. Casper, Joe Eckroat

Outstanding Compositing & Lighting in Feature Avatar: The Way of Water: Landing Rockets Forest Destruction – Miguel Santana Da Silva, Hongfei Geng, Jonathan Moulin, Maria Corcho Avatar: The Way of Water: Water Integration – Sam Cole, Francois Sugny, Florian Schroeder, Jean Matthews — WINNER The Batman: Rainy Freeway Chase – Beck Veitch, Stephen Tong, Eva Snyder, Rachel E. Herbert Top Gun: Maverick – Saul Davide Galbiati, Jean-Frederic Veilleux, Felix B. Lafontaine, Cynthia Rodriguez del Castillo

Outstanding Special (Practical) Effects in a Photoreal Project Avatar: The Way of Water: Current Machine and Wave Pool – JD Schwalm, Richie Schwalm, Nick Rand, Robert Spurlock — WINNER Black Adam: Robotic Flight – JD Schwalm, Nick Rand, Andrew Hyde, Andy Robot, Mad God, Phil Tippett, Chris Morley, Webster Colcord, Johnny McLeod The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power “Adrift” Middle Earth Storm – Dean Clarke, Oliver Gee, Eliot Naimie, Mark Robson

Emerging Technology Award Avatar: The Way of Water: Depth Comp – Dejan Momcilovic, Tobias B. Schmidt, Benny Edlund, Joshua Hardgrave Avatar: The Way of Water: Facial System – Byungkuk Choi, Stephen Cullingford, Stuart Adcock, Marco Revelant Avatar: The Way of Water: Water Toolset – Alexey Dmitrievich Stomakhin, Steve Lesser, Sven Joel Wretborn, Douglas McHale — WINNER Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio: 3D Printed Metal Armature – Richard Pickersgill, Glen Southern, Peter Saunders, Brian Leif Hansen Turning Red: Profile Mover and CurveNets – Kurt Fleischer, Fernando de Goes, Bill Sheffler

[souchanai]

IDOLiSH7 7th Anniversary: Chapter 4 - Permulaan Festival [INDO TL]

Chapter 5 | Navigasi Cerita

HaruTamaIo: ...

Iori: Ayo kita briefing ulang.

Tamaki: Ngoghe.

Haruka: Oke.

Iori: Kelas kita mengadakan Cosplay Stamp Rally

Iori: Kita akan keliling sekolah sambil cosplay, kalau pengunjung bertemu dengan cosplayer, mereka harus menebak keyword yang kita bawa, kalau berhasil, kasih mereka stamp.

Iori: Keywordnya ada bareng kartu stamp-nya

Iori: Btw, keywordku itu, "Sensei, dadaku sakit."

Tamaki: Kalau aku, "Kita pernah bertemu di sini 100 tahun yang lalu."

Haruka: Aku, "Ma~in~ yu~k~"

HaruTamaIo: .....

Haruka: Siapa coba yang ngide ini?

Tamaki: Cocok untukmu, kok. Gemoi.

Iori: Baju lengan panjangmu itu kelihatan panas sekali.

Haruka: Nanti mereka pasti ngetawain aku...!!!

Tamaki: Gak apa-apa, lah. Buat mereka ketawa sampai sakit perut.

Haruka: Iya juga. Aku bisa ngalahin mereka dengan itu.

Tamaki: Nyan! Berubah!

Haruka: Haha, apa itu? Posenya ngakak.

Tamaki: Aku nanti bakal nunjukkin itu jika bertemu dengan pengunjung.

Iori: Agak gemesin, ya...

Haruka: Jaa, aku juga mau menunjukkan sesuatu yang buat orang tertawa. Ada yang punya ide gak? Yang menarik gitu.

Tamaki: Coba kau bilang "babu—!" Jangan sampai kau melewatkan kesempatan di hidup ini untuk mengatakannya dengan pede. Pasti menarik, deh.

Haruka: Iya juga.

Iori: Memangnya perlu apa bilang 'babubabu' gitu? Penting apa untuk hidup?

Tamaki: Kalau Iorin nanti mau nunjukin apa?

Iori: Aku gak bakal nunjukkin apa-apa. Yotsuba-san, boleh tolong 'berubah' lagi?

Tamaki: Nyan! Berubah!

Iori: Fufu...

Haruka: Kau suka sesuatu yang seperti ini, ya, Izumi?

Iori: *Ekhem* Kalau gitu, semangat semua untuk shift nanti! Sekian. Bubar!

HaruTama: Yosshaaa!!!

—

Aya: Abis ini, Kujo-san!

Takamasa: Banyak poster di sepanjang jalan ini. Festival Tahun ke-7 Sekolah Nanahoshi...

Aya: Tamaki-nii-chan, Haru-chan dan Iori-san sekelas, kira-kira kelas mereka akan mengadakan apa, ya?

Takamasa: Apa kau pernah menanyakannya?

Aya: Pernah. Tapi, karena memalukan, jadi Haru-chan tidak mau bilang.

Aya: Kujo-san, apa yang kau lakukan saat festival sekolahmu dahulu?

Takamasa: Sepertinya aku pernah diminta untuk menjadi penyanyi bagi suatu band oleh klub musik.

Aya: Benar-benar masa muda, ya! Aku ingin melihatmu di band...!

Takamasa: Aku buruk dalam meng-MC, mood penonton malah semakin jatuh jika aku yang membawakannya.

Aya: Kalau aku ada di sana, aku akan menjadi yang paling semangat!

Takamasa: Ahaha. Kalau aku melihatmu, aku akan langsung menarikmu ke panggung.

Aya: Wah, kayak adegan film...!!!

Takamasa: Lagian udah ada orang-orang kualitas bintang yang sesuai untuk posisi itu...

Takamasa: Bahkan Haruki saja lebih suka menjadi orang di balik layar. Begitu pun juga aku. Karena itu, Tenn, Aya... dan Haruka... Kalian hebat sekali.

Aya: Kujo-san...

Takamasa: ...Zero juga. Dia juga hebat.

Resepsionis: Maaf, Tuan... Kalian tidak dapat masuk jika tidak memiliki tiket...

Aya: Ah... Kelihatannya ada yang bertengkar di pintu masuk. Apa ia kehilangan tiket masuknya?

Takamasa: .... Sepertinya, aku mengenalnya...

Aya: Eh?

Takamasa: Aya, kau duluan saja. Aku akan menyusulmu.

Aya: O-Oke!

<Takamasa pergi>

Aya: Etto... Tamaki-nii-chan ada dimana, ya?

Aya: Ah, kelas itu mengadakan lomba yang berhadiahkan hand mixer.

Aya: Aku butuh yang baru, mungkin coba kali, ya...

Aya: Yosh, aku akan mencobanya!

–

Riku: Aku dapat kartu untuk ikut stamp rally!

Sogo: Aku juga.

Riku: Semoga kita bertemu dengan Iori dan Tamaki! Kira-kira mereka bakal cosplay apa, ya?

Sogo: Mereka gak mau kasih tahu. Apa karena memalukan, ya?

Riku: Semakin memalukan, kita akan semakin ingin melihatnya!

Sogo: Benar!

Riku: Ah! Bukannya itu Iori?

Sogo: Iya! Riku-kun, coba kau panggil.

Riku: Sip! Kalau gak beda, gak seru! Aku akan coba pura-pura jadi teman sekelasnya!

Riku: Izumi-kun!

Iori: Ya?

Riku: Beneran Iori! Apa kau mengira aku itu teman sekelasmu?

Iori: Enggak, lah. Aku sudah tahu suaramu seperti apa.

Riku: Ngomong-ngomong kau... Cosplay dokter, ya?!

Sogo: Kau keren sekali, Iori-kun! Warna putih sangat cocok denganmu!

Iori: Terima kasih.

Riku: Dokter... Kerennya...! Kau keren banget, Iori!

Iori: Eh, benarkah?

Riku: Un...!

Sogo: Apa karena saat kecil Riku-kun lebih sering di rumah sakit?

Sogo: Dokter pasti merawatmu, 'kan? Karena itu, tanpa disadari, kau otomatis akan memercayai dan menghormati orang yang mengenakan luaran berwarna putih seperti ini.

Riku: Bisa jadi...

Sogo: Aku juga. Karena aku menghormati pamanku, setiap kali aku melihat rocker, hatiku akan berdegup tak keruan.

Iori: Aku boleh coba sesuatu gak? Aku akan mengganti pakaianku.

Riku: Ah, kau udah mau ganti baju?

<Iori ganti baju>

Iori: Dah.

Sogo: Hebat sekali, Iori-kun. Kau dapat mengganti baju dengan cepat.

Iori: Nanase-san, tolong jaga dirimu baik-baik, ya.

Riku: Kau gak perlu bilang juga akan kulakukan.

Iori: Aku akan mengganti pakaianku lagi.

Sogo: Kubantu, ya.

<Iori ganti baju lagi>

Iori: Dah.

Iori: Nanase-san, tolong jaga dirimu baik-baik, ya.

Riku: Oke~

Iori: Apa?! Sebegitu berpengaruhnya kah cosplay-nya?!

Riku: Kau keren banget, Iori. Kau terasa dapat dipercaya.

Iori: Efektif banget, ya? Mungkin aku akan sering-sering mengenakan jubah putih.

Sogo: Kalau misalnya mau memberikan rasa 'menjaga', bukankah lebih baik kau mengenakan pakaiannya Kujo-san?

Iori: Itu sebuah kekalahan bagiku, Osaka-san. Gak bakal bisa.

Sogo: Begitu. Susah, ya.

Riku: Bilang 'tolong jaga dirimu' lagi, dong!

Iori: Tolong jaga diri, ya.

Riku: Waa—! Dia minta aku buat jaga diri!!!

Sogo: Syukurlah, Riku-kun.

Iori: Bahkan ada efek pseudo-fanservice juga?!

Riku: Ah, iya juga! "Sensei, dadaku sakit..."

Sogo: Ah, aku juga. "Sensei, dadaku sakit..."

Iori: Stamp, ya? Sini.

Riku: Yeaayy!!!

Sogo: Dapat satu. Kau tahu gak Tamaki ada dimana?

Iori: Coba cari di bagian timur sekolah, mungkin bakal ketemu.

Riku: Wah, dapat hint! Terima kasih banyak, sensei.

Iori: Tolong jaga diri, ya.

—

Haruka [Narasi]: ...Oke semangat, yuk. Kalau ntu tiga datang, akan kubuat mereka ketawa

Murid 1: Waa.... Bukankah tiga orang itu ZOOL?

Murid 2: Benar...! Kerennya...! Bahkan ZOOL ada di sekolah kita!

Minami: Isumi-san ada dimana, ya?

Touma: Kayaknya ada di sekitaran sini, deh...

Torao: Ah, itu bukan?

Haruka: .....Aa mereka datang... Yosha! Akan kubuat mereka tertawa!

Haruka: Babu—! Apa kayian mau chtamp—?!

MinaToumaTora: ....

Touma: Yo, Haru.

Torao: Festival sekolahnya seru, ya.

Minami: Terima kasih telah mengajak kami.

Haruka: Eeh... Tunggu, apa...? Jangan gitu, dong...

Touma: Kau mau makan siang gak?

Haruka: Daripada makan siang, kalian tidak tertarik apa untuk melihat pakaianku ini...?

Torao: Enggak...?

Haruka: Serius? Meski aku udah bilang "babu—"?

Minami: Kau terlihat natural, kok dengan itu.

Haruka: Kalau gitu bukannya itu gawat?

Touma: Sudahlah! Karena kita sudah ke sini, minta stamp-nya, dong!

Haruka: Keywordnya?

MinaToumaTora: "Ma~in~ yu~k~!"

Haruka: Sip, sip, sip.

Minami: Makasih.

Torao: Ooh, stamp-nya lucu.

Touma: Ngumpulin stamp doang seru juga, ya!

Haruka: Kalian doang yang malah semangat ngumpulin stamp tapi enggak ketawain cosplaynya.

Touma: Affh iyh?

Torao: ....Fu...

Haruka: Itu dia, Tora! Jangan lihat sana! Lihat sini!

Torao: Bentar, bentar. Aku lagi mencemaskan atap di sebelah kanan di sana.

Haruka: Gak usah bohong! Kau mau ketawa 'kan melihatku?! Ketawa aja! "Babu–!"

Torao: Enggak, enggak, enggak! Atapnya lagi dalam keadaan gawat itu!

Haruka: Oi! Liat sini! Lihat bordiran di dadaku!

Minami: Mido-san, larilah!

Torao: ....Oke.

<Torao lari>

Minami: Nice dash.

Haruka: Napa malah ngomongin itu?!

Touma: Oh iya, apa kau pikir Utsugi-san tidak datang? Sebenarnya, ceritanya begini...

Haruka: Apa? Kenapa tiba-tiba kau cerita? Lagi nahan ketawa kah, Touma?

Touma: Bukan, bukan!

Haruka: Mencuyigachan...

Touma: ...Fu... Mou, aku sudah tidak tahan...!

Minami: Larilah!

Touma: Ashiap!

<Touma lari>

Minami: Nice dash.

Haruka: Kok pada pergi, sihh?! Mou...!

Minami: Isumi-san.

Haruka: Apa?

Minami: Tinggal aku sendiri, nih.

Haruka: Tahu, kok! Kalian ngapain, sih?! Main game?!

Reporter Majalah Musik: Ah, Isumi-san dan Natsume-san dari ZOOL!

Minami: Kau siapa, ya...?

Haruka: Reporter majalah musik yang kita temui di Red Fes.

—

Host: Kontes Meniru Festival Sekolah Nanahoshi dimulai!

Murid: Uwoooo!!!

Host: Kita langsung saja mulai dari yang pertama!!! Silahkan!

Cosplayer Yamato: Kontestan Pertama! Meniru Nikaido Yamato dari IDOLiSH7!

Murid: Uwoooo!!!!

Cosplayer Yamato: Mau bermain dengan onii-san?

Murid: Uwooooo!!!!

Host: Mirip banget~! Hm?! Tiba-tiba musiknya berubah! Jangan-jangan....?!

Yamato: Nikaido Yamato dari IDOLiSH7 di sini. Murid: Uwoooo....!!!!

Host: Yang aslinya datang!

Cosplayer Yamato: Waaa, yang asli!!! Maaf...

Yamato: Sans, mirip, kok. Kau benar-benar menguasai karakterku.

Murid: Uwooooo!!!

Cosplayer Yamato: Waa—!!! Senangnya...! Terima kasih banyak!!!

Yamato: Semangat terus, ya.

Cosplayer Yamato: Baik!!! Terima kasih!!!

Host: Terima kasih! Selanjutnya adalah... Ini dia!!!

Cosplayer Nagi: Kontestan kedua! Meniru Rokuya Nagi dari IDOLiSH7!

Murid: Uwoooo...!!!!

Cosplayer Nagi: Hi, girl! Maukah kau menjadi my princess?

Murid: Uwoooo!!!

Host: Mirip banget~! Ah, lagunya berubah! Jangan bilang...

Nagi: HII! Rokuya Nagi dari IDOLiSH7 di sini.

Murid: Uwooo!!!!

Host: Gak nyangka orang aslinya bakal datang juga!

Cosplayer Nagi: Waaa, Nagi-kun! Kerennya...! Aaaa, aku meniru di depan orangnya...

Nagi: OH! Penampilanmu sangat luar biasa, kok! Ayo kita pamitan bersama! Gak masalah, 'kan?

Cosplayer Nagi: Baik! Tidak masalah, kok!

Nagi: Tu... Wa...

Nagi & Cosplayernya: Bye bye~!

Murid: Uwoooo!!!

Host: Terima kasih banyak! Selanjutnya...!

Cosplayernya Iori: Kontestan keempat! Meniru Izumi Iori dari IDOLiSH7!

Murid: Uwooo...!

Cosplayer Iori: Anak SMA yang sempurna itu aku.

Murid: Uwooo!!!

Host: Gawat! Yang ini mirip juga! Oh?! Lagunya berubah! Jangan-jangan orang aslinya...?!??!

Mitsuki: Halo!

Host: Kakaknya Izumi, Mitsuki-san telah hadir!!!

Murid: Uwooo!!!

Cosplayer Iori: Uwaa—! Ada Mikki! Nii-san imut! Keren...!

Mitsuki: Aku bukan kakakmu! Tapi, terima kasih!

Murid: Uwooo!!!

Cosplayer Iori: Gimana? Apa aku cukup mirip dengan Izumi? Meski, Izumi hanya memberiku 55 poin, sih!

Mitsuki: Ahaha, mayan mirip, kok! Maa, tapi, Iori masih lebih imut!

Murid: Uwoooo!!!

Cosplayer Iori: Senang berjumpa denganmu! Boleh jabat tangan, tidak?!

Mitsuki: Sip! Tolong jaga Iori, ya!

Host: Terima kasih banyak! Selanjutnya adalah tamu baru kita!

Aya: Kontestan keempat! Meniru Magical Girl, Magical☆Kokona!

Murid: Uwoooo!!!!

Aya: Mahou shoujo majikaru☆kokona! Majikaru☆kokona!  Daisuki kokona! Kimi ga soba ni ireba~ Mugen no chikara ni naru no~ (Magical girl, Magical☆Kokona! Magical☆Kokona! Aku sayang Kokona! Selama kubersamamu~ Aku akan mendapatkan kekuatan yang tak terhingga~)

Nagi: YES! OPENING THEME-NYA!!! That's amazing! We love Magical☆Kokona!

Mitsuki: Bukannya itu Aya-chan...?! Imutnya~! Mirip banget!

Yamato: Aya-chan mood booster banget, 'kan?

Aya: Ehehe... Aku ingin menang!

NagiMitsuYama & Para Murid: Uwoooo...!!!

Mr. Shimooka: Waahh, seru banget, nih...!

Mitsuki: Mr. Shimooka!!! Ternyata kau datang!

Mr. Shimooka: Aku diajak oleh Tamaki-kun dan teman-temannya. Aku juga dengar bahwa anaknya Matsunaga-kun menjadi panitia festival ini.

Mr. Shimooka: Oh, iya, ini. Coba makan, deh.

Nagi: OH! Apa ini...?

Mr. Shimooka: Roulette Rusia Tapioka  Doki doki

NagiMitsuYama: Roulette Rusia Tapioka Doki doki?!

Mr. Shimooka: Di dalam tapioka yang warna warni ini hanya ada satu yang rasanya aneh.

Yamato: Kayak, tiba-tiba ada rasa telur ikan?!

Mitsuki: Keren! Idenya jenius sekali!!!

Mr. Shimooka: Aku beli banyak, jadi bagi-bagi aja. Enjoy.

Mitsuki: Terima kasih banyak!

Mr. Shimooka: Apa kalian adalah tamu untuk acara Kelahiran Bintang hari ini?

Yamato: Iya. Bentar lagi giliran kita.

Mr. Shimooka: Kelahiran Bintang, ya... Kalian masih termasuk artis baru tapi udah jadi tamu untuk acara seperti ini, ya.

Mitsuki: Itu karena Mr. Shimooka banyak membimbing kami...

Mr. Shimooka: Aku tidak ngapa-ngapain, kok. Kalian menjadi bintang karena talenta kalian sendiri!

Mr. Shimooka: IDOLiSH7 sudah besar, ya. Aku menantikan penampilan kalian malam nanti!

Nagi: Untuk hari-hari kita bertemu dan kita jalani, dari lubuk hatiku yang terdalam aku mengucapkan thank you, Mr. Shimooka!

Mr. Shimooka: Thank you juga. Sukses terus, ya.

NagiMitsuYama: Trims!

Host: Etto, hasil voting sudah keluar! Etto, hasilnya akan segera diumumkan! Pemenangnya adalah...

Host: Kujo Aya-san!

Aya: Kyaaaa, yatta!

Nagi: Wow! Fantastic!

Mitsuki: Kereenn! Selamat, Aya-chan!

Yamato: Selamat, ya! Kepada para cosplayer kami juga, aku ucapkan terima kasih banyak!

Cosplayer NagiMitsuIori: Terima kasih juga!

Mr. Shimooka: Aku turut senang. Selamat, nona kecil!

Aya: Terima kasih banyak!

to be continued...

[yesungsh27]

"Menghadirkan Nostalgia: Game PS2 yang Bisa Kamu Nikmati Lagi di PS5"

PlayStation 2, yang dirilis lebih dari dua dekade lalu, adalah salah satu konsol paling legendaris dengan banyak game klasik yang membawa kenangan tersendiri bagi para gamer. Meski kini sudah hadir PlayStation 5 dengan grafis mutakhir dan teknologi yang canggih, banyak penggemar tetap merindukan permainan-permainan klasik yang dulu merajai PS2. Beruntung, beberapa game PS2 kini bisa dinikmati lagi di PS5 dengan fitur peningkatan visual, kontrol, dan stabilitas yang memaksimalkan pengalaman nostalgia.

Berikut adalah beberapa game PS2 yang bisa kamu mainkan di PS5, membawa kenangan lama dalam balutan grafis dan performa yang lebih baik.

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas adalah salah satu game paling ikonik dari era PS2 yang membawa pemain ke dalam petualangan Carl "CJ" Johnson di kota fiktif Los Santos. Game ini memiliki peta yang luas, berbagai misi menantang, dan kisah yang mendalam tentang keluarga, pengkhianatan, dan persahabatan.

Kini, San Andreas tersedia di PS5 sebagai bagian dari Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition, yang menghadirkan peningkatan grafis, pencahayaan yang lebih baik, dan perbaikan kontrol. Dengan remaster ini, pemain bisa merasakan nuansa klasik PS2 namun dengan kualitas visual dan gameplay yang lebih modern.

2. Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster

Final Fantasy X dan X-2 adalah dua judul RPG yang sangat dicintai di PS2. Kisahnya mengikuti perjalanan Tidus dan Yuna dalam petualangan epik melawan kekuatan jahat di dunia Spira. Dengan grafis yang memukau dan jalan cerita yang emosional, game ini berhasil memikat hati banyak penggemar.

HD remaster dari Final Fantasy X/X-2 kini hadir di PS5, dengan grafis yang diperbarui, termasuk perbaikan karakter, lingkungan, dan audio yang lebih tajam. Tidak hanya itu, versi ini juga mencakup konten tambahan yang sebelumnya hanya ada di versi internasional, menjadikannya pengalaman lengkap bagi penggemar lama maupun pemain baru.

3. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater dianggap sebagai salah satu game stealth terbaik yang pernah ada. Pemain berperan sebagai Naked Snake (yang nantinya dikenal sebagai Big Boss) dalam misi penuh intrik di hutan Soviet. Game ini dikenal dengan gameplay stealth yang inovatif dan cerita yang kompleks, penuh dengan plot twist yang tidak terduga.

Snake Eater dapat dinikmati kembali melalui koleksi Metal Gear Solid HD Collection, yang telah di-remaster dengan peningkatan visual yang signifikan. Di PS5, gamer dapat merasakan kembalinya aksi stealth ikonik ini dalam resolusi yang lebih tinggi dan frame rate yang lebih stabil.

4. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

Sebagai salah satu platformer terbaik di PS2, Jak and Daxter mengisahkan petualangan Jak bersama temannya, Daxter, dalam misi menyelamatkan dunia dari kekuatan gelap. Game ini menghadirkan lingkungan yang luas, karakter penuh warna, dan gameplay yang menyenangkan, menjadikannya favorit bagi banyak pemain di era PS2.

Koleksi Jak and Daxter kini tersedia dalam versi remastered di PS5 dengan perbaikan grafis dan performa. Penggemar platformer klasik dapat menikmati perjalanan nostalgia ini dengan tampilan yang lebih tajam serta peningkatan frame rate, menghadirkan pengalaman bermain yang lebih mulus dan seru.

5. Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus adalah salah satu game paling artistik dan berpengaruh di PS2. Game ini mengisahkan petualangan Wander yang berjuang mengalahkan enam belas raksasa untuk menyelamatkan seseorang yang dicintainya. Dengan dunia yang sunyi dan atmosfer yang dramatis, Shadow of the Colossus menyajikan pengalaman yang berbeda dari game lainnya.

Remake dari Shadow of the Colossus hadir di PS5 dengan grafis yang sepenuhnya diperbarui oleh Bluepoint Games, menciptakan keindahan visual yang lebih megah. Dengan kontrol yang lebih responsif dan frame rate yang lebih halus, versi PS5 ini menawarkan kesempatan sempurna bagi penggemar untuk merasakan kembali kisah heroik ini dalam kualitas terbaik.

6. Resident Evil 4

Salah satu game horor survival terbaik di PS2, Resident Evil 4 membawa pemain dalam perjalanan Leon S. Kennedy menyelamatkan putri presiden di sebuah desa terpencil di Eropa. Dengan mekanisme kamera over-the-shoulder yang revolusioner, Resident Evil 4 menjadi game horor aksi yang memikat banyak pemain.

Di PS5, Resident Evil 4 hadir dalam versi remaster yang menyajikan grafis yang lebih tajam, tekstur yang diperbarui, serta kontrol yang lebih baik. Ini membuat pengalaman bertarung melawan zombie dan makhluk mengerikan lainnya terasa lebih seru dan menegangkan.

7. Okami HD

Okami adalah game dengan gaya visual yang unik, terinspirasi dari lukisan tinta tradisional Jepang. Pemain mengendalikan Amaterasu, dewi matahari yang berbentuk serigala putih, dalam misi untuk memulihkan keindahan dunia yang gelap. Game ini menawarkan visual yang menawan dan gameplay yang kreatif.

Versi Okami HD kini tersedia di PS5 dengan grafis HD dan frame rate yang lebih baik, memberikan pengalaman visual yang jauh lebih memukau. Dengan desain seni yang indah dan cerita yang penuh makna, Okami HD menghadirkan kenangan indah bagi penggemar lama dan memperkenalkan pengalaman yang unik bagi pemain baru.

8. Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX

Seri Kingdom Hearts menggabungkan karakter Disney dan dunia Final Fantasy dalam sebuah petualangan RPG yang unik. Game ini mengikuti kisah Sora, Riku, dan Kairi yang berjuang melawan kegelapan. Kombinasi karakter Disney yang ikonik dan gameplay yang seru menjadikan Kingdom Hearts salah satu seri yang paling berkesan di PS2.

Kini, koleksi Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX hadir di PS5 dengan perbaikan grafis dan gameplay. Koleksi ini menyertakan enam game klasik dari seri Kingdom Hearts, yang semuanya telah di-remaster untuk memberikan pengalaman yang lebih lancar dan memuaskan.

Kesimpulan

Kemampuan PS5 untuk menghadirkan kembali game-game legendaris dari era PS2 adalah hadiah luar biasa bagi para penggemar nostalgia. Dengan peningkatan grafis, frame rate, dan kontrol, game-game klasik ini tidak hanya terasa seperti perjalanan ke masa lalu, tetapi juga sebuah pengalaman baru yang lebih baik.

Bagi gamer yang ingin merasakan kembali petualangan lama atau pemain baru yang penasaran dengan klasik legendaris, koleksi game PS2 di PS5 adalah cara yang sempurna untuk menikmati dua dekade perjalanan dunia game. Nikmati nostalgia dalam balutan teknologi modern di PS5 dan rasakan kembali pesona tak terlupakan dari game-game klasik ini.

[kera4dtanpa]

Kera4D ⚡ Tanpa Batas, Keseruan Tanpa Henti!

Kera4D adalah pilihan tepat bagi Anda yang mencari pengalaman bermain yang seru dengan peluang memenangkan tanpa batas! Dengan koleksi game terbaik dan fitur unggulan, Kera4D menghadirkan pengalaman bermain yang penuh kejutan dan hadiah besar. Dari slot inovatif hingga game dengan tema yang unik, Kera4D menyediakan hiburan tanpa henti bagi setiap pemainnya.

Mengapa Memilih Kera4D untuk Tanpa Batas? Game Terbaru dan Populer Kera4D menyuguhkan pilihan game terbaru dari pengembang terkemuka seperti No Limit City, yang dikenal dengan grafis memukau dan fitur inovatif. Setiap game dirancang untuk memberi pengalaman bermain yang unik sekaligus peluang besar untuk memenangkan !

Peluang Besar dan Fitur Menarik Di Kera4D, peluang untuk meraih terbuka lebar dengan fitur seperti progresif yang terus bertambah setiap kali dimainkan. Fitur xNudge, xWays, dan Sticky Wilds di berbagai game memastikan setiap putaran membawa potensi hadiah yang lebih besar.

Bonus dan Promosi Tanpa Henti Nikmati berbagai promosi menarik yang dihadirkan Kera4D! Mulai dari bonus deposit, putaran gratis, hingga cashback, semuanya dirancang untuk memberikan keuntungan lebih bagi pemain setiap harinya.

Platform Aman dan Mudah Diakses Dengan keamanan tinggi dan sistem yang mudah diakses, Kera4D memberikan pengalaman bermain yang aman dan nyaman. Setiap transaksi cepat diproses sehingga Anda dapat fokus menikmati permainan.

Layanan Pelanggan Siap 24/7 Tim dukungan pelanggan Kera4D siap membantu kapan pun Anda butuhkan. Dengan layanan 24/7, setiap pemain dapat menikmati pengalaman bermain tanpa hambatan.

Game Populer dengan Tanpa Batas di Kera4D Di Kera4D, ada banyak game yang memberikan peluang menang besar, seperti:

Deadwood: Slot Wild West yang terkenal dengan fitur xNudge Wilds dan Shoot Out, memberikan peluang untuk meraih fantastis. San Quentin xWays: Game dengan volatilitas tinggi, memberikan keseruan dan peluang besar lewat fitur Split Wilds dan Lockdown Spins. Fire in the Hole xBomb: Slot bertema tambang dengan fitur xBomb yang meledakkan simbol di sekitar untuk menciptakan multiplier besar. Segera Bergabung dan Menangkan di Kera4D! Dengan Kera4D, Anda tidak hanya mendapatkan hiburan tanpa henti tetapi juga peluang untuk meraih besar. Nikmati keseruan bermain game favorit Anda dan raih hadiah tanpa batas sekarang juga!

[cosmictotodope]

The Fascinating History of Casinos and Slot Machines

Introduction The world of casinos and slot machines is vibrant and full of intrigue, with a rich history that spans centuries. From their humble beginnings to becoming a multi-billion-dollar industry, casinos and slots have evolved significantly. This article explores their origins, development, and the innovations that have shaped the modern gaming landscape.

The Origins of Casinos Early Gambling Houses

The concept of gambling houses dates back to ancient times, with the first known establishment appearing in Venice, Italy, in 1638. The Ridotto was created to provide a controlled gambling environment during the annual carnival season. The Rise of European Casinos

As gambling gained popularity, more formal establishments began to emerge across Europe. Notable early casinos included those in France and Germany, which became centers for social and economic activity. Casinos in America

Gambling made its way to America with European settlers. The first American casinos appeared in New Orleans in the early 19th century, eventually spreading to other parts of the country. The Evolution of Slot Machines The Invention of the Slot Machine

The first true slot machine, the Liberty Bell, was invented by Charles Fey in San Francisco in 1895. It featured three spinning reels and a simple mechanism that paid out automatically. Mechanical to Electronic

Over the years, slot machines evolved from mechanical devices to electronic ones. The 1960s saw the introduction of the first fully electromechanical slot machine, paving the way for more complex and exciting games. The Digital Revolution

The 1990s brought about the digital revolution in slot machines, with video slots offering advanced graphics, themes, and bonus features. This transformation attracted a new generation of players. The Growth of the Casino Industry Las Vegas: The Casino Capital

Las Vegas emerged as the epicenter of casino gaming in the mid-20th century. With its luxurious resorts and entertainment options, it became a global destination for gamblers. The Expansion to Asia

The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw significant growth in the Asian casino market, particularly in Macau and Singapore. These regions now rival Las Vegas in terms of revenue and popularity. Online Casinos

The advent of the internet in the 1990s led to the rise of online casinos, offering players the convenience of gambling from home. This innovation has expanded the reach of casino gaming worldwide. Innovations in Slot Machines Progressive Jackpots

Progressive slots, which offer ever-increasing jackpots, have become immensely popular. These games link multiple machines, allowing for massive payouts that can change a player's life. Branded Slots

Themed slots based on popular movies, TV shows, and celebrities have attracted a diverse audience. These games combine familiar entertainment with the thrill of gambling. Skill-Based Slots

Recent innovations include skill-based slots, which incorporate elements of video gaming. These appeal to younger players looking for more interactive experiences. The Impact of Technology Mobile Gaming

The proliferation of smartphones and tablets has led to the growth of mobile gaming. Players can now access their favorite casino games anytime, anywhere in COSMICTOTO.

Virtual Reality (VR)

VR technology is beginning to make its mark on the casino industry, offering immersive gaming experiences that replicate the feel of a physical casino. Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

The use of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies is gaining traction, providing secure and transparent transactions for online casinos. Responsible Gambling and Regulation The Importance of Regulation

As the casino industry has grown, so has the need for regulation to ensure fair play and protect consumers. Many countries have established regulatory bodies to oversee gambling activities. Promoting Responsible Gambling

Casinos and online platforms are increasingly focusing on responsible gambling initiatives, offering tools and resources to help players manage their gaming habits. Future Challenges

The industry faces ongoing challenges, including addressing problem gambling and adapting to new technologies and market trends. The Future of Casinos and Slot Machines Continued Innovation

The future of casinos and slot machines will likely see continued innovation, with advancements in technology driving new gaming experiences. Global Expansion

Emerging markets in Africa, South America, and Asia present opportunities for further expansion of the casino industry. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

As the industry grows, there will be an increasing focus on sustainability and social responsibility, ensuring that casinos contribute positively to their communities. Conclusion The history of casinos and slot machines is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring appeal of gaming. From ancient gambling houses to modern online platforms, the industry has continually adapted to cultural and technological changes. As we look to the future, casinos and slots will undoubtedly continue to captivate players worldwide, offering excitement, entertainment, and the thrill of chance.

[kikotapasando]

Trabou pa asfaltá Seru Fortunaweg / Kaya San Juan for di 14 te ku 17 di òktober 2024

Tráfiko, Transporte i Planifikashon Urbano   Trabou pa asfaltá Seru Fortunaweg / Kaya San Juan for di 14 te ku 17 di òktober 2024 Publiká riba 09 Òktober 2024 Willemstad – Minister Charles Cooper huntu ku Servisio pa Obra Públiko (OW) ta informá ku entre 14 i 17 di òktober 2024 lo tin trabou di mantenshon na Seru Fortunaweg i Kaya San Juan. Durante kuater dia lo asfaltá e kaminda, pa motibu ku e…

[aisapage]

SOD WITH +02

1. Hal terplot twist yang pernah lu alamin di rp

Pernah pacaran sama faker goblog. Yang nyebelin adalah aku pernah beliin dia sesuatu dan dia kasih alamat fiktif. KENAPA GAK NOLAK AJA GITU SIH? BUANG BUANG UANGKU AJA.

2. What's your biggest red flag?

Idk ini red flag atau engga tapi aku sangat sangat sangat clingy. Bakalan keliatan kayak cwk high maintenance tapi ya gitu emang aslinya butuh banyak perhatian. 🙏🏻

3. What was the biggest lesson you learned from your last relationship

Walaupun udah temenan seru banget kayak pinang dibelah dua tapi gak menentukan pacarannya berhasil ya ges ya

4. Kiss, marry, kick member +02

Seperti byasa. Kiss and marry aisailee 🩷 kick semuanya (love you guys)

5. tag 1 member di sini yh dan bilang sesuatu (misal ⁦@odteu⁩ eh kocak)

JTAKE SPILL IDENTITASMU KOCAK. 👺

6. Spill chara dari selama main rp yang bikin nyaman dan ngerasa bahwa lo dia banget.

Choi Jisu a.k.a Lia ITZY. Akunnya masih ada sih tapi lemes. 😔

7. Ada chara yang lagi pingin lo mainin gak tapi belum kesampaian, kalau ada sebutin fc-nya

Naoi Rei, Anna Tanaka. Rei udah pernah tapi pengen lagi, Anna baru akunnya ajah wkwkwk.

8. Kalo misal bisa bebas milih pcr buat 3 hari, chara siapa yang kamu pengen?

Song Mingi, Choi San, Hwang Intak, Choi Jiung, Han Taesan. Banyak. ☺️

9. Ada fc yang bikin kalian trauma?

Ada. Chorong Apink sunbae-nim. 🙏🏻

10. How about toxic relationship

Capek tapi pas lagi di dalam beneran gak bisa keluar. Early screening(?) toxic relationship, coba pikir kamu takut gak curhat sama temenmu soal kelakuan pacarmu? Kalo iya, bisa jadi lagi di dalem toxic relationship.

11. Express your feelings to someone you've kept to yourself anonymously.

Gak ada deh...

12. Your opinion about age-gap rls (satunya fc legal, satunya fc minor)

Actually I don't really mind...? Bukan encourage juga, tapi untuk konteks yang sampai bawa-bawa grooming itu menurutku gak mashok aja kan gak pada tau umur writernya. Emang kurang etis aja diliat yang age gapnya terlalu jauh, apalagi kalau salah satunya minor. Tapi aku bukan yang really against it dan bakalan marahin orangnya. You do you lah gitu.

13. Say something to someone who isn't here anymore. (lrp atau move acc)

Baru aja sadar kalo salah satu kakakku deact acc rpnya tanpa bilang. Yaudah mau bilang apa lagi. Next time kalo punya hubungan di rp tolong jangan begitu dah.

14. random pic yang bikin kalian inget sm mantan

15. wajar ga sih benci orang di rp? terus gimana cara biar ga benci orang di rp versi kamu?

Wajar, yang gak wajar kalau sampai benci ke face claimnya alias idolnya. Gak ada caranya sih....tapi mungkin kalau benci kesel atau apapun gak usah jadi yang aktif melakukan sesuatu(?), cukup diem aja gak usah deketin dia atau gimana gimana.

16. biasanya akhir kisah cintamu di rp ditinggalin atau ninggalin?

Saling(?) wkwkwkwkwk

17. Gimana kesan pesan selama di +02?

Anak-anaknya rame. Masih mau menerima aku walaupun akunya rp meninggal. 😔🩷

18. What’s your biggest green flag?

Aku bukan tipe yang ngambekan dalan konteks dikabarin atau gimana. I really appreciate kalo meluangkan banyak waktu, tapi kalau emang lagi gak bisa ya gimana lagi. Intinya kalo melakukan kesalahan terus minta maaf dan gak terulang lagi, yaudah gak bakalan aku ungkit ungkit atau bikin proses(?) minta maaf jadi ribet cuma karena pengen ngambek lama.

19. Platform main RP mana yang paling berkesan?

X ia.

20. Chara terlama kalian apa?

Jennie Kim.

21. Spill chara inceran eak (chara aja gak perlu orangnya)

Kayak nomor 8, kenalin ye kalo ada. ^____^

22. Spill teh teraneh yang pernah kelen tau, alami, terlibat (viral atw egk gak masalah)

Dulu ada rp day6 yang ship chaser(?). Trus itu kalo disensus satu rpw pasti rp day6 yang charanya inceran dia pernah digodain WKWKWKWK. Kenal sampe jadian sama chara incerannya bisa gak nyampe seminggu bjir. Selalu bikin masalah dalam satu sirkel, alias menggatal dalam satu sirkel emang gila.

23. Spill lagu non kpop, non pop indo, dan west pop yang kalian suka.

24. Pribadi kalian gimana? (OC)

Sejujurnya tipe yang serius, sering bercanda tetep tapi sangat sangat suka pembicaraan serius. Sering oversharing, dan sering encourages people around me to do the same soalnya menurutku semakin banyak cerita yang kita bagi berarti semakin kita percaya satu sama lain. Meskipun loyo dan bukan tipe yang ngobrol tiap hari banget sama temen, tapi aku gak pernah menganggap gak ngobrol = gak temenan. Selama kita gak punya masalah, walaupun kita ngobrol seminggu sekali tetep temenku.

25. tag anak +02 yang first impressionnya terlihat akan susah didekati

Assalamualaikum ningning. 🙏🏻

26. Spill alasan kalian masih main RP.

Masih seru. :D

27. Spill 3 lagu yang mencerminkan suasana hati kalian saat ini.

Jujur gatau bjir tapi aku kasih lagu yang aku lagi suka banget aja ya.

[anievo]

Amagami-san Chi no Enmusubi: Romansa, Kejutan, dan Komparasi Seru dengan Anime To LOVE-Ru!

[ingatlah]

Link Gratis Nonton Live Streaming AC Milan vs Liverpool Liga Champion 2024

INGATLAH.COM – Pertandingan seru antara AC Milan dan Liverpool di Liga Champions 2024-2025 bisa disaksikan melalui live streaming pada Selasa (17/9/2024) malam waktu setempat, atau Rabu dini hari WIB. Laga bergengsi antara AC Milan melawan Liverpool ini bakal digelar di Stadion San Siro, dengan kick-off dijadwalkan pukul 02.00 WIB. Aksi kedua tim bisa diikuti lewat layanan streaming online. Link…

[chroisan]

WeAintEmo Last Mission

Due to X's new policy, I want to declare that this account was made for roleplayer purposes only. I'm not the real Choi San and has no connections related to ATEEZ.

apresiasi muse

Gue udah sering ngomong ini sih dalem kesendirian kalo Choi San itu gokil banget. dia anak kabupaten kan ye, bahkan kabupatennya ntu belom ada sejarah seseorang yang dari sana bisa jadi idol tapi choi san bisa sepede itu ke seoul demi jadi idol.. patut di acungin jempol. mana semua perjuangannya gak sia-sia kalo ngeliat dia sekarang. koncinya emang konsisten sih, keren pokoknya.

2. fi dan ci untuk sinners

bang mik: receh jir apa aja di react ketawa babelnya sama dia

bang ray: teges kayaknya dah gua mikirnye dulu

bang ge: jamet aowkoakokwokaokowkoawkkwa

3. urutan ct paling toksik

bang mik, mikey, key, mik, ray, ge. (dendam game nyari muka)

4. best mcr song and explain

gua demen banget lagu mcr semuanya sebenernya. lagu-lagu mereka ntu nemenin gua pas kerja mulu jir, apalagi pas lagi badmood. tapi yang paling gua suka the light behind your eyes, disenchanted sama the world is ugly. alesannya karena romantis tapi alay tapi enak wkwkw.

5. kegiatan emo paling berkesan.

berkesan semua coy, apalagi kalo lagi event. anak disini pada ambis semua gua heran. dari griting, ngevlog, danusan, konsep beli alat lah, game toksiknye, ampe event pengkinya pun seru jir. good job bang, oa lu keren abis gua ampe enjoy banget gada tekanan.

6. pesan untuk para rockstarz

lu jangan pada sombong ye, kalo gua lewat tl jb aje se asbun lu pada, begitupun gua ke lu pada nanti juga kalo lewat gua jb. thankyou buat sebulan lebihnya, gua sedih jir berpisah sm org ambis, asbun bin aneh. oh iye kalo mau sposesan atau kegiatan laen gasssss. lu mo curhat di dm gua pun juga gua siap mendengarkan, abis itu gua tinggal tidur AOWOKOAKOWKA.

7. apa yang bikin kalian bertahan di emo

first of all para sinner dan rockstarz tentunya lah brok, walopun dari konsep gua udah demen pol tapi kalo respon yang lainnye kurang ya ga nyaman juga.

8. pesan untuk diri kalian

es teh 1, mi ayam 1, baso urat 1.

[arahb0la]

info main bola Soal Cedera Yoro Usai Laga Arsenal vs Manchester United, Ten Hag: Mikir Positif Aja

info main bola – Pelatih Manchester United Erik Ten Hag mengaku belum mengetahui seberapa parah cedera Leny Yoro plus Rasmus Hojlund tapi ia berusaha berpikir positif bahwa keduanya tak akan sampai mengalami cedera parah.

Man United menjalani tur pramusimnya di Amerika Serikat. Mereka bahkan sudah menjalani laga pertamanya di Negeri Paman Sam tersebut.

Pada Minggu (28/07/2024), Man United berduel lawan Arsenal. Laga tersebut digelardi SoFI Stadium di California.

Hojlund membuat United unggul lebih dahulu. Sayangnya Arsenal bisa mencetak dua gol balasan melalui Gabriel Jesus dan Gabriel Martinelli.

Manchester United benar-benar apes di laga lawan Arsenal ltu. Sebab selain kalah, dua pemain mereka yakni Rasmus Hojlund dan Leny Yoro mengalami cedera.

Erik Ten Hag mengaku sekarang ia belum tahu pasti seberapa parah cedera kedua pemainnya itu. Namun ia berharap mereka tak sampai cedera parah.

“Tentu saja terlalu singkat dan kami harus menunggu lebih dari 24 jam. Kemudian kami berharap dapat mengetahui lebih banyak,” ungkapnya pada laman resmi United.

“Kami sangat berhati-hati terutama dengan Leny karena ia hanya mengikuti 50 persen sesi . Ia harus tampil, tetapi mari kita berpikir positif dan melihat apa yang terjadi,” seru Ten Hag.

Setelah melawan Arsenal, Manchester United akan bermain lagi pada tanggal 1 Agustus 2024. United akan berduel melawan Real Betis.

Laga itu akan digelar di Snapdragon Stadium di San Diego, California. Setelah itu, United bakal berlaga di Williams-Brice Stadium di Columbia, Carolina Selatan.

Di sini MU akan berduel lawan rival abadinya yakni Liverpool. Pertandingan ini bakal dilangsungkan pada 4 Agustus 2024.

Jadwal Man United Berikutnya Kamis 1 Agustus 2024

09.00 WIB Manchester United vs Real Betis Minggu 4 Agustus 2024

06.30 WIB Manchester United vs Liverpool Sabtu 10 Agustus 2024

[lemonandomurice]

adore you

—Pokémon Sun & Moon fanfiction; Ilima x Mizuki/Selene (Fem!MC) —Written in Bahasa Indonesia —Gameverse; using JP names for the characters, might be OOC —Pokémon Sun & Moon © Game Freak & Tajiri Satoshi. Fanfiksi ini ditulis hanya demi menambah asupan gizi pribadi kapal kesayangan saya. Saya tidak bermaksud untuk mengambil keuntungan materiil apapun.

Mizuki berhasil menyelesaikan trial-nya yang pertama.

Mizuki cukup bangga. Dipandangnya normalium-z yang berhasil ia dapatkan bersama rekan-rekan pokemon-nya dengan iris yang berbinar-binar. Dari tadi senyumnya tak pernah hilang. Pencapaian pertama yang cukup baik bagi seorang trainer pemula sepertinya—Kapten Ilima juga mengapresiasi bakatnya, omong-omong. Rasanya seperti mimpi. Berkali-kali Mizuki mencubit pipinya dan meringis sakit; tanda bahwa semua ini nyata, bukan sekadar angan-angan trainer muda sepertinya.

Bahagia sekali Mizuki akibat hal sederhana tersebut—ia semakin antusias untuk menyelesaikan grand trial Kahuna Hala.

Ah, bertemu Hala-san nanti saja.

Sebelum menemui Hala, Lillie, maupun Hau, biarkan ia menikmati udara segar khas Hau’oli. Sambil melihat-lihat toko pakaian dan Battle Buffet yang menarik perhatiannya.

Mizuki sangat bahagia sampai-sampai ia terus bersenandung sepanjang jalan Hau’oli, mengabaikan pandangan turis dan warga lokal yang melihatnya dengan heran. Beberapa ikut tersenyum melhat tingkah gadis kecil itu—adakah orang yang lebih bahagia dari gadis itu? Mizuki hanya tidak dapat menahannya. Dia bukan tipe orang yang suka memendam sesuatu. Lebih baik mengekspresikannya. Tidak ribet dan membuat pikiran lebih rileks.

Kira-kira kepribadian Mizuki sebelas dua belas dengan Hau. Keduanya sama-sama personifikasi matahari. Selalu menebar senyum, tidak pasif, energik, tidak mudah putus asa—Hau dan Mizuki hampir identik. Hanya saja Hau tidak bisa diam, kelewat santai dan sangat lemot dalam berpikir.

Mizuki jadi merindukan sahabat baiknya itu.

“Mizuki-chan?”

Suara familiar itu menghentikan langkah Mizuki. Satu, dua, tiga langkah menuju gadis itu.

Mizuki menoleh, mendapati Kapten Ilima tengah tersenyum padanya. Ia balas menyunggingkan senyum. Menjaga kesopanan—lagipula ia memang ingin tersenyum—kepada yang lebih tua.

“Ah, Ilima-san. Alola!”

“Ya. Alola, Mizuki-chan.”

“Ilima-san sedang apa?”

“Aku hanya sedang mencari tempat yang bagus untuk melukis. Mizuki-chan tidak menyusul Hala-san?”

“Nanti saja, Ilima-san. Aku ingin menikmati Hau’oli dulu.”

“Begitu.”

“Iya. Udara Hau’oli sangat sejuk dan menenangkan. Dan Battle Buffet sepertinya seru! Aku ingin mencobanya sebelum menemui Hala-san.”

Berada dekat Mizuki memang menular. Energi positif gadis itu selalu membuat Ilima ikut tersenyum—seperti saat ini.

Mizuki menarik perhatian Ilima pertama kali bertemu—ketika gadis itu berhasil mengalahkan lima trainer dan seorang guru di Trainer School tanpa banyak usaha seperti trainer pemula pada umumnya. Kemudian, Mizuki membangkitkan rasa ingin tahu-nya setelah ia membantu sang kapten menutup mulut Team Skull di Hau’oli. Dan ketika Mizuki berhasil menyelesaikan trial-nya, tanpa ragu Ilima memberikan normalium-z dan mengapresiasi kemampuannya. Gadis itu—meski usianya masih sebelas tahun—memiliki potensi yang luar biasa dalam pokemon battle. Ilima menyaksikan sendiri perkembangan Mizuki yang pesat.

Ilima akui, Mizuki adalah perempuan yang manis—juga polos, terkadang. Tak perlu waktu lama bagi Ilima untuk jatuh hati pada Mizuki dan segala pesonanya. Dia sendiri tidak menyangka akan tertarik pada seorang gadis yang baru saja dikenalnya—dan lagi, kepada seorang gadis yang baru saja berusia sebelas tahun.

Aku tujuh belas tahun, Mizuki-chan sebelas tahun.

Ilima memang sempat mengagumi Matsurika-san. Namun Mizuki berbeda. Jantungnya berdebar untuk Mizuki, tidak pada Matsurika. Ilima hanya menganggap Kapten Matsurika sebagai sosok kakak dan sumber inspirasinya—tidak lebih juga tidak kurang.

“Kau sangat bahagia. Dari tadi senyummu tidak pernah hilang.”

“Iya, aku sangat, sangat senang, Ilima-san! Ini pencapaian pertamaku sebagai trainer, mana mungkin aku sedih karena berhasil menyelesaikan trial-ku yang pertama—trial milik Ilima-san!”

“Ya, baguslah kalau begitu.”

Ilima terkekeh. Dia gemas sekali. Jarang sekali ia temui gadis seekspresif Mizuki. Andai mereka sedekat itu, Ilima mungkin akan mencubit kedua pipi gadis itu saking gemasnya—atau mungkin mengelus puncak kepala Mizuki dengan lembut.

“Kau harus sering-sering tersenyum, Mizuki-chan. Dunia tentu akan lebih indah kalau kau sering tersenyum.”

Mizuki mengangguk. Lagi-lagi Kapten Ilima membuatnya serasa melambung tinggi—yang pertama ketika Ilima-san memuji bakatnya setelah trial. Mizuki senang sekali ketika sang kapten memujinya. Entah kenapa, hanya saja rasanya sangat menyenangkan.

“Senyummu ini menular, tahu.”

Kini pemuda yang dijuluki Pangeran Trainer School itu tersenyum lembut, menatap lurus kedua iris abu-abu Mizuki. Refleks. Ilima kagum dengan bola mata jernih Mizuki—meski warnanya gelap, tetap indah.

“Eh? Ilima-san?”

Menyadari apa yang baru saja ia katakan, Ilima yang kalem kini tergagap. Kedua pipinya memerah—namun warna merah itu tersamarkan oleh warna kulitnya yang sedikit gelap.

“Maaf, Mizuki-chan. Lupakan saja kata-kataku tadi!”

“Baiklah, Ilima-san?”

Mizuki sedikit heran, namun memilih mengiyakan. Ilima berusaha meredakan debar jantungnya. Keadaan serasa canggung dengan instan.

Ilima bodoh, kau merusak momen. Mizuki-chan masih muda, Ilima!—batinnya.

Ilima melirik Mizuki sekilas. Gadis itu tampak biasa saja, tampaknya tidak terganggu dengan perkataannya tadi serta tatapan intens yang refleks diberikan Ilima padanya. Padahal Ilima yang terkenal tenang itu sedang berperang dengan batinnya, sementara Mizuki tampaknya tenang-tenang saja.

“Ilima-san kenapa?”

“Tidak—tidak ada apa-apa, Mizuki-chan.”

Ilima melihat jam tangan demi menghindari pandangan polos Mizuki. Bisa tambah kacau hatinya kalau ia menatap gadis itu lama-lama. Takut kebablasan nantinya.

Astaga, aku melupakannya!

Oh, Ilima benar-benar lupa. Dia harus bergegas menemukan tempat melukis yang nyaman dan sepi—salahkan sikap perfeksionis-nya, kemudian langsung menyelesaikan lukisannya. Tenggat waktu-nya esok hari. Klien-nya akan mengambilnya besok siang.

Berbincang dengan Mizuki benar-benar membuatnya lupa waktu.

“Mizuki-chan, aku melupakan lukisanku.”

“Ah, maafkan aku, Ilima-san. Aku menyita waktu Ilima-san.”

Mizuki seperti ingin menangis. Ilima menggeleng dan tertawa kecil. Mizuki yang polos tentu saja tidak pernah mengganggu waktu-nya.

Malah Ilima belum ingin berpisah dengan Mizuki dan mengobrol lebih lama—mengenal gadis itu lebih dalam. Gara-gara deadline lukisan.

“Tidak perlu minta maaf, Mizuki-chan. Berbicara denganmu sangat menyenangkan.”

Mizuki mengangguk. Dia tersenyum lebar hingga matanya membentuk lengkungan seperti bulan sabit. Senyuman yang sangat disukai Ilima.

Rasanya benar-benar tidak rela berpisah secepat ini. Apa boleh buat, Mizuki juga harus menyelesaikan semua trial selain miliknya.

“Baiklah, Ilima-san! Aku juga senang bisa berbicara dengan Ilima-san!”

“Sampai jumpa, Mizuki-chan. Sukses ya dengan grand trial Hala-san.”

“Terima kasih, Ilima-san. Sampai ketemu lagi!”

Ilima melambaikan tangan. Mizuki balas melakukan hal yang sama hingga pemuda itu hilang dari pandangan.

Sepeninggalan Kapten Ilima, Mizuki menghela napas lega.

Gadis itu menyentuh dadanya. Degdegdeg. Debaran jantungnya keras sekali.

“Kau harus sering-sering tersenyum, Mizuki-chan. Dunia tentu akan lebih indah kalau kau sering tersenyum.”

“Senyummu ini menular, tahu.”

Pernyataan Ilima tadi terus terngiang-ngiang. Kedua pipinya merona memikirkannya—dan tatapan tadi, Mizuki mengingat iris obsidian Ilima yang sempat bersiborok dengan miliknya meski hanya sekejap. Tatapan teduh dan senyuman lembut itu menggetarkan hati Mizuki.

Kini Mizuki tidak mampu menghapus sosok Kapten Ilima dari benaknya.

Rotom memang benar; Ilima seorang perayu ulung.

finish (Minggu, 22 Juli 2018 - unedited)

Notes: Terinspirasi setelah player character sukses menyelesaikan trial pertama dan Rotom yang mengklaim Ilima sebagai “dreamboat”. Dreamboat artinya sebenarnya bukan perayu sih, tapi aku anggap saja begitu #maapkan. Anggap saja Ilima 17 tahun, secara Trial Captains usianya berkisar antara 11-19 tahun, hehe.

[kikakikaku]

Bapak senin kemarin habis sakit,

Anaknya sakit pikiran dan sakit hati, ditambah sakit gigi, lalu sore tadi mimisan depan indomaret.

Haruskah ku pikirkan lagi konsep hubunganku dengan io? Sangat sadar kalau hubungan ini membuatku tidak sehat karena kerumitan didalamnya, sementara diri ini masih belum tega melihat dia sendiri (ya padahal dia tidak masalah juga kalau aku tinggalkan) -,- kayak apa sih, kayak masih ingin berada disisinya, menjaga dia, dekat dengan dia tapi tahu hubungan ini tidak akan berhasil (pesimis) .

Bener kata orang beban pikiran itu bisa bikin sakit raga. Sakit banget badanku akhir- akhir ini semenjak drama cinta ini.

Mereka sibuk berdua dengan dunia mereka, sementara….

Aku disini sibuk setia menjaga kehormatan pasangan kan, ku tolak lah semua ajakan nongkrong ady, matius, terus another potential man yang chatnya cuman ku bls seadanya. Namanya daud, 6 tahun lebih tua, lama kenal tapi dari januari kemarin suka ngajakin chat dan nongkrong, kerja di bank central asia sebagai apa gitu deh lupa. Cakep sih, karir bagus tp gak sombong (sejauh ini). Seru sih ngobrol sama dia, tapi yaaa hatiku udah kadung setia sm io kan ya.

Rugi sih kata temen- temenku. Tapi udah lah yaaa, kesetiaan dan ketulusanku susah buat digoyahkan.

Kalo io udah nggak mau dan nggak berusaha yoo wes. Masih ada yg mau kok. Aku merana dan bersedih layaknya patah hati pada umumnya, berjuang dengan waktu , terus kalau dalam perjalanan berani mencoba hubhngan baru lagi yaa alhamdulilah. Kalo nggak yaaa mboh .

Intinya aku cinta dan benci sm io.

Lagu dangdut yang bilang lebih baik sakit gigi dari pada sakit hati, aku mengalami keduanya, sakit hati san sakit gigi, plus mimisan. Kurang apaaaa cobaaaaa

[jaemirani]

We will never understand each other.

Di ruang tengah, yang sebagian lampunya sudah dipadamkan—sisakan lampu utama tepat di atas meja yang dilingkari sofa—San duduk dengan gelisah di sana. Berjam-jam pemuda itu menunggu kepulangan sang majikan yang telah seharian bermain tanpa beri kabar sama sekali. Sudah tiga gelas kopi ia tandaskan sebab gusarnya buat pikirannya tak tenang. Ponselnya berkali-kali diangkat, diperiksa, berharap majikan kecilnya menelepon atau sekadar memberi kabar kapan dia akan pulang. Namun, nyatanya, hingga waktu telah menunjukkan pukul sebelas malam, sama sekali tak ada tanda-tanda pemuda kecil itu akan pulang.

Lantas kemudian San lebih dulu kirimkan pesan, tanyakan di mana posisi pemuda itu sekarang, dan kapan sekiranya pemuda itu akan pulang. Namun, hasilnya sama sekali tak baik. Mereka lagi-lagi bertengkar, cekcok melalui isi pesan yang isinya hanya perihal sang majikannya yang lagi-lagi layangkan cacian kepadanya.

San tak cukup sabar menghadapinya kali ini, lantas yang ia lakukan hanya diam, tak lagi balas pesan itu sebab ia tahu itu hanya akan memperkeruh.

Dan sampai pukul dua belas tengah malam, San kontan berdiri kala pintu utama dibuka dengan pelan. Jung Wooyoung masuk dengan tertatih, tangan kanannya tutup kembali pintu, sedang tangan satunya tenteng kresek bening berisi pil dan obat merah. Sesaat San membeku kala dilihatnya lebam serta lecet di wajah sang majikan.

Kalakian ia mendekat, berdiri di hadapan Wooyoung yang layangkan tatapan tak bersahabat. “Kamu kenapa? Kenapa wajahnya lebam-lebam kayak gitu? Kamu habis berantem?”

Decakan tak suka itu terdengar, alih-alih pecahkan tanda tanya di kepala Choi San, Wooyoung memilih untuk berlalu, melewati sang bodyguard begitu saja.

“Wooyoung, saya tanya, kamu kenapa?”

“Gak usah banyak tanya, bisa gak?!” Dilemparnya kresek itu ke atas meja, kesal. Ia tahu San akan mengomel, dan ia malas mendengarnya.

“Kamu berantem, 'kan? Wajah kamu lebam kayak gitu, kalau sampai Papa kamu lihat, yang dicecar pasti saya. Terus saya harus jawab apa nanti?”

“Terserah, bangsat, gue gak peduli!”

Dibawanya langkahnya menuju dapur, diambilnya segelas air dari dispenser, lantas ditenggaknya dengan tak sabaran, seolah telah berhari-hari tenggorokannya tak dialiri air. Sedang San sekarang kembali menuju sofa, memungut beberapa pil yang berhamburan sebab dilempar begitu saja oleh pemiliknya. Dengan rapalkan segala macam mantra untuk luaskan sabarnya, ia kembali menghadap Wooyoung yang kini sandarkan punggungnya di tembok antara dapur dan ruang tengah.

“Wooyoung... Sebenarnya selama ini, kamu anggap saya apa?” Tatapan keduanya bertemu, bertubrukan dengan kasar. Yang satunya lempar tatapan sayu, sedang satunya lagi setia dengan tatapan tajam dan sinisnya. “Saya dibawa sama Papa kamu ke sini buat kerja jagain kamu. Saya diberi kepercayaan buat didik kamu supaya disiplin dan gak semena-mena sama orang lain. Awalnya saya pikir, gak akan susah terapin semua rules yang dikasih buat kamu, tapi ternyata satupun gak pernah kamu patuhi.”

Denting gelas di tangan pemuda kecil terdengar kala gelasnya tak sengaja bertabrakan dengan tembok di belakangnya. Bibirnya kelu, rahangnya mengeras, ia sama sekali tak tahu apa maksud pemuda tinggi paparkan semua itu kepadanya.

“Saya juga pernah remaja, kok. Saya tau remaja seusia kamu lagi seru-serunya sama pergaulan. Lagi seru-serunya eksplor semua hal yang menurut kamu bagus. Tapi, Wooyoung, orang tua kamu gak pernah mau anaknya salah pergaulan. Papa kamu gak pernah tau kalau kamu sering berantem kayak gini, dia pikir kamu selalu baik-baik aja di sekolah—”

Tawa itu tiba-tiba menggema di ruang tengah yang sunyi. “Jelas dia gak bakal tau, lah, pulang ke rumah aja seminggu sekali. Gak pernah tuh dia ngecek kondisi anaknya, apalagi kehidupan anaknya di sekolah, boro-boro. Lu tuh kalau gak tau, mending diem, gak usah sok tau! Lu cuma tau kondisi gue dari mulut Papa, yang notabenenya gak tau apa-apa tentang gue, so shut your mouth and stop acting like you know me so well, asshole!”

Ia berbalik, hendak kembali menuju dapur saat kalimat pemuda tinggi mengudara tanpa aba. “Saya memang gak kenal kamu dengan baik. Saya gak ngerti isi kepala kamu dan gimana cara kamu berpikir selama ini. Saya juga gak ngerti sama semua tingkah kamu selama ini. Dan saya gak ngerti apa yang buat kamu bertindak impulsif dan cium saya waktu itu. Saya gak ngerti, Wooyoung. Isi kepala kamu dan semuanya. Saya gak pernah bisa ngerti.”

Tubuhnya mendadak beku, berdiri di ambang batas kewarasan serta amarah yang siap meledak kapan saja. Lantas di detik selanjutnya, gelas di tangannya dilempar ke lantai hingga pecah dan menghambur begitu saja.

“Lu emang gak bakal ngerti semuanya!”

“That's because you never opened up to me. I try to understand, but all your behavior makes me sick! Kamu selalu semena-mena dan gak pernah coba mengerti perasaan dan kondisi saya! You're selfish, Wooyoung...”

Oleh sang pemuda kecil, dibawanya langkahnya maju, tak pedulikan pecahan kaca di lantai. “You think I'm selfish? You think this is what I want to be unstable and act impulsively? Do you think I chose this way of life, Choi San?!”

“You can't choose, but at least you have the choice not to act like this! Have you ever thought that I could be hurt too, Wooyoung?!”

“And you think you're the only one hurt? Bet you never thought about my feelings!”

Tarikan napas berat juga panjang itu terdengar usai kalimat keras itu dilayangkan oleh yang di depan. Dipijatnya pelipisnya pelan, halau pening yang sudah hampir menyebar di seluruh bagian kepalanya.

“Jadi, mau kamu apa? Gak usah merembet kemana-mana, saya pusing.”

“Lu resign!”

Lantas diberinya anggukan tanpa ragu oleh pemuda tinggi, “That's what you wanted all along, right? Okay, I'll resign.”

Kalakian, ia berbalik, meraih ponselnya di atas meja, lantas dibawanya tungkainya menuju pintu utama. Ia keluar, tanpa ucapkan sepatah kata, tanpa tengok kembali bagaimana kondisi sang majikan dan pecahan kaca yang berhamburan di lantai.

Ia sudah cukup sabar selama ini, dan sisi egoisnya dibiarkan menang untuk malam ini.

Dan yang ditinggalkan hanya berdiri di sana, di atas pecahan kaca yang beningnya telah bercampur tetesan darah. Agaknya ia kehilangan akalnya usai kewarasannya digerogoti amarah, sebab kini tatapan tajam itu kosong pandangi pintu yang telan bayang pengawalnya.

“Bangsat. I hate you, Choi San...!”

[sikemiri]

SISI LAIN ASAN

…

Isan melirik jam analog pada ponselnya terus menerus. Kini sudah pukul 15 lebih 55 menit dan kerja kelompoknya masih belum selesai juga. Dia cukup gelisah, karena katanya, Asan sudah tiba di parkiran perpustakaan kampus.

“Udah ini, apa lagi yang harus ditambahin?” Tanya Isan sembari melihat rincian apa yang harus dikerjakan. “Udah, segini aja. Kayaknya udah cukup sih menurut gua. Menurut yang lain gimana?” Tanya rekannya sembari melirik ke teman-teman yang lain.

“Udah aja. Kalau kebanyakan, nanti malah melenceng.” Jawab rekannya yang lain.

“Setuju. Jangan lupa daftar pustakanya diurutin yang bener. Biar gak usah nyusun-nyusun lagi.” Titah salah seorang yang diangguki oleh seluruh kepala yang ada di sana.

“Yaudah, ayo balik,”

Akhirnya, batin Isan lega berbicara. “Yes, balik.” Seru si lanang sembari menutup buku catatannya dan memasukannya ke dalam tas.

“Dari tadi liatin jam mulu, San. Lagi dikejar waktu, ya?” Tanya kawan perempuannya yang membuat Isan tampilkan cengirannya, “enggak, kok. Aku pulang duluan, ya, guys. Udah ditungguin temen. Kalian hati-hati pulangnya!”

Isan angkat kaki dari dalam perpustakaan dan berjalan dengan terburu-buru menuju parkiran kampus. Tidak enak, takut Asan menunggu lama.

Begitu tiba di sana, Isan celingak-celinguk mencari keberadaan Asan. Baru saja ponsel dikeluarkan untuk menghubungi kawan kostnya itu, keburu urung dilakukan sebab Isan sudah bertemu dengan Asan.

Asan ada di sana. Berjongkok di bawah pohon rindang dengan tangan yang mengelus bulu kucing dan mulut yang sibuk berbicara pada hewan mamalia itu. Entah apa yang dibicarakan, Isan tidak terlalu bisa mendengarnya. Di dekatnya pula, ada sebotol makanan kucing yang sudah tinggal setengah.

Langkah Isan mendadak terhenti. Baru kali ini Isan menyaksi kegiatan Asan yang seperti ini. Di matanya, Asan selalu bernilai negatif. Entah karena kelakuan grasak-grusuknya, atau karena tingkah iseng dan menyebalkan yang kerap membuat Isan naik pitam.

Tetapi hari ini, Isan seperti melihat sisi lain dari seorang Asan. Matanya begitu teduh tatkala berinteraksi dengan seekor kucing. Bahkan kucing tersebut acuh pada apa yang Asan ucapkan. Hewan itu terlalu sibuk mengunyah makanannya.

Hingga tanpa sadar, sudut bibir Isan terangkat begitu saja.

Namun sejemang kemudian, Isan menggelengkan kepalanya kuat-kuat, “Ih, Isan. Sadar! Itu Asan! Tetangga kamu yang super nyebelin itu. Ngapain kamu senyum-senyum liatin dia sama kucing?” Monolog Isan sembari mencubit punggung tangannya.

Dan ternyata, dari jauh Asan sudah lebih dulu menangkap presensi Isan yang tengah berbicara seorang diri. “Eh, Isan? Udah kelar kerkomnya?”

Nyaris saja jantungnya turun ke perut lantaran terkejut oleh suara baritone Asan. “Udah, hehe,” Isan berjalan ke arah Asan dan kucing liar itu, “Kamu lagi ngapain di sini?”

“Lagi ngasih makan Suparjo.”

“Suparjo?” Repetisi Isan.

“Iya, kucingnya namanya Suparjo.”

“Kok kamu tau dia namanya Suparjo? Kan gak ada kalung namanya.”

“Tau. Soalnya gue yang namain sendiri. Hehe.”

“Aneh banget, kenapa Suparjo? Kayak nama bapak-bapak.”

Asan meraih botol tempat makanan kucingnya dan beranjak dari posisi jongkoknya, “tadinya mau gue namanin Isan. Tapi udah ada tuh yang punya nama itu.”

Kan. Baru juga Isan terpana akan sosok baru Asan, eh sudah kembali tengil lagi dia.

“Ngeselin banget!” Isan meninju lengan Asan, sedang yang menjadi samsak hanya tergelak saja.

“Ayo, berangkat.”

“Oh, ngomong-ngomong, kita mau ke mana?” Tanya Isan begitu tiba di samping motor Asan.

“Beli helm.”

“Beli helm? Kan kamu udah punya ini?” Dia menunjuk pelindung kepala yang tersemat di kaca spion Asan.

“Bukan buat gue,” Jawab Asan dan Isan menautkan alisnya. Agaknya Asan membaca kebingungan yang ada pada wajah Isan, “tapi buat Isan.”

Isan melongo, “Eh, kok buat aku? Ngapain?”

“Ke depannya, kalo ke kampus, bareng aja sama gue. Atau kalo mau ke mana-mana juga jangan ragu buat minta anterin gue. Itung-itung hemat energi dan pengeluaran.”

“Ih, tapi nanti ngerepotin kamu. Gak usah.”

Cukup gemas Asan mendengar penolakan yang dilontar oleh Isan. Isan begitu tidak enakan padanya. Padahal Isan sudah banyak menolong Asan.

Asan menatap netra Isan. Baru kali ini Isan ditatap oleh Asan dengan pandangan yang cukup serius. Alhasil, Isan jadi gugup sendiri.

“Isan, ini gue kok yang mau. Gak usah merasa gak enak, asli deh. Gue bahkan udah bayak ngerepotin Isan, sampe kemaren sempet ngerjain Isan. Ini sebuah bentuk maaf sekaligus terima kasih dari gue. Kalau masih gak enak juga, Isan patungan bensin aja, gimana? Jadi, gue juga bakal dapet untung dari Isan.” Asan menampilkan senyum andalannya sebelum naik ke atas motor. Menyalakan kuda besinya dan menurunkan pijakan kaki untuk Isan. “Yuk? Keburu sore, nanti macet.”

Dan mau tidak mau, Isan hanya bisa menuruti apa yang Asan lakukan. Isan memang merasa tidak enak. Akan tetapi, kalau boleh jujur, Isan tidak bisa pungkiri bahwa dirinya senang bila ada yang menaruh perhatian padanya. Persis seperti apa yang Asan lakukan sekarang.

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