#she's a bad influence on sakura

[sea-owl]

in the same vein of her knowing something only haruka knows, sakura regularly brings up clan secrets without realizing and freaks everyone out lmao

Not only does Sakura bring up clan secrets but she also brings up village secrets that are part of the foundation to the village. As the wives of the founders Haruka and Mito defiantly knew some secrets.

Imagine in like a non massacre au baby genin Sakura just being the one who casually says this stuff but she doesn't know what she says are clan secrets or village secrets. Haruka is not gonna tell her those are secrets because she likes watching the chaos and Shachi secretly likes watching it as well. Sakura's not dumb either, she catches on at some point that maybe some of the things she knows she probably shouldn't. But hey she's having fun. Free entertainment is free entertainment they're not gonna be picky.

Meanwhile all these adults are trying to figure out how this civilian born girl knows all of this?! Sakura's had anbu stalk her, she's had Uchiha police stalk her, they even had Kakashi and Sasuke try to pry where she was getting this information from. But they come back with nothing. And Sakura doesn't know how to explain that she can speak with her past lives in her head and one of them just so happens to know all this.

Things come to head during the fight with Ino during the chunin exams.

So in my mind the Haruno thing with being able to communicate and interact with their past lives has always meant to be a defense mechanism against genjutsu and mental attacks like the Yamanaka's mind transfer jutsu. But because they are a civilian clan they never fully unlocked their chakra the way ninjas do so it never progressed to that point. Haruka, while never officially becoming a ninja, partially unlocked her chakra to the point she was able to perform some jutsus but mostly infused her chakra into her teas and poisons. This allowed her to look into Shachi's memories and made it harder to put her under a genjutsu. Sakura has fully unlocked her chakra so as she advances it brings up more of the defensive side to it.

When Ino put Sakura under the mind transfer jutsu the defensive side kicked into high gear. Sakura broke the jutsu but the second spirit that pushed Ino out was Haruka while Shachi checked over Sakura's psyche. That's when something weird happened.

A ghostly form came out of Sakura as if chasing Ino back to her body and that ghost actually pinned Ino to the floor. The ghost was a woman who wore a mask and had pink hair. Holding her updo in place is a hair piece that looked suspiciously like the Uchiha fan. If one were to try and sense chakra from her they would feel her's and Sakura's.

Sakura recognized Haruka right away, but she was confused how she was seeing her. Haruka was also confused by her surroundings. The match was called with Sakura as the winner since Haruka still had Ino pinned to the floor and then Sakura was swept away by Kakashi with Haruka following behind. She didn't trust any of these fuckers with her reincarnation. And what were they gonna do tell her no? Yeah right.

They were brought into a separate room where they joined by Fugaku not long after. This girl just broke one of the Yamanka's mind jutsus. already they don't want to bring in another one just yet. Too much mystery was surrounding this girl they needed to find out what was going on. Haruka does one of her favorite things and starts arguing with the Uchiha. Whoever this woman was she knows the old laws too well, and Fugaku really wanted to know why she wore the Uchiha fan in her hair.

"Don't worry Sakura they can't touch you. You did nothing wrong," Haruka reassures her reincarnation. She points at Fugaku. "Besides that one is more chomping at the bit to figure out why I'm wearing his clan symbol."

Sakura looked confused. "Wasn't that a wedding gift?"

Haruka's posture turned bored. "Yep, my husband Madara Uchiha gifted me this." She turned back towards Fugaku. She points to him and then back to herself. "Clan Head, former Clan Lady."

Well at least Fugaku now knew where Sakura learned all those clan secrets.

[wombrion]

You probably get this a lot, but the way you go at drawing the Madoka cast is great and I love Homura being a gangly wet cat of a teenager. It's very fun. Kyoko also has incredible vibes. Also[this goes on for several minutes]

waaa thank yuuuuuuuu!! these two are one of my faves dynamic wise.. even though they dont really got going on in canon i think theyre so fun together:)

[littlest-god]

So does anyone else think the way Ino and Sai got together is extremely suspicious? I mean, it was established early on that Sai did not find Ino attractive and other than those few episodes where she "saves him" they don't really interact at all. Now one could say that she really did move him in those episodes and he really did fall in love but that's boring and personally, I wholly believe Sai to be 100% gay so hear me out. We know the Yamanaka's excel in mind oriented jutsus. They can take over another's body, delve into memories and with training, even break another's mind. So it's not that big a jump to assume they could change memories or even, use they're abilities to access the hypothalamus part of the brain perhaps? Sai, as stated earlier, never showed interest in Ino previous to the day she delved into the deepest parts of his mind. Ino on the other hand DID show interest in Sai. She's also been shown to be a emotionally driven individual. What if while she was in Sai's head she did more than just break him free? What if she just switched who's hand was holding the leash? She could access the hypothalamus and change what emotions are stimulated in him whenever he thinks, sees, or hears about her. And why stop there? With most of the emotional manipulation blueprints left from whatever Danzo did with him, She could make him into her ideal man.

[rdlain]

He Would Not Fucking Say That lmao

[sapphic-kpop-fics]

Masterlist

groups i write for

aespa

Karina/Yu Jimin:

rivalries and reconciliations (smau) (on pause)

ITZY

Shin Ryujin:

Bad Influence (series) (on pause)

Hwang Yeji:

Needy. (Smut)

Le Sserafim

Huh Yunjin:

Sunlit admiration (fluff, suggestive)

NSFW headcanons (smut)

Fri(end)s (angst)

Sitting Pretty (smut)

NSFW alphabet (smut)

Hometown (smut, fluff, angst)

Miyawaki Sakura:

Saki’s Girl (smut)

Old Flame (smau)

Under the table (smut)

Nakamura Kazuha:

She’s like a cloud (smut)

Twice

Hirai Momo:

Distraction (smut)

Challengers w/Jihyo (smut)

Undercover (smut,fluff)

Im Nayeon:

Toxic (angst, smut)

Cat and Mouse (smut)

Park Jihyo:

Challengers w/Momo (smut)

i miss you (smut, angst)

Backseat (smut)

Minatozaki Sana

Princess Treatment (Fluff,Smut)

Yoo Jeongyeon

Throw Me Around (smut, fluff)

Son Chaeyoung

Faded (angst, smut, fluff)

Katseye

Daniela Avanzini:

Smoke Slow pt.2 (suggestive,slight smut)

Sophia laforteza:

Her Best Friend (smut)

Jealousy headcanons

Manon Bannerman:

Reflection (smut)

Megan Skiendiel:

Quiet Afternoon (smut)

Blackpink

Rosé/Park Chaeyoung:

Smile, you’re on camera (smut)

[bronsinseele]

like at any moment my favorite will be griseo or hua or elysia or sakura or aponia or su or do you see the problem yet.

i cant begin to rank the flamechasers by how much i love them i feel like it'd be unfair and inaccurate

[team7-headquarter]

Thinking again about how Sakura and Tsunade are depicted as violent women for comedy relief purposes and how much it links to their value as people in the war setting of Naruto.

Let's start with the obvious: In Naruto, the more capable of violence an individual is, the more the shinobi system finds them valuable.

That's because they are always at war or waiting to be at war. They need to be a threat in order to be respected and in consequences, defenseless people can't speak without someone with great power or influence willing to back them up.

The Land of the Waves is the perfect example.

Now, it's very important to say that comedy relief moments in Naruto aren't meant to be taken all seriously. They tell us about the characters and their dynamics, but "women beats men" is a trope that most of the time is meant to be taken as a sort of compliment for the female characters of Naruto. It means they are strong and won't take any bullshit, that they are assertive, have a strong personality and generally they are great fighters.

I'm not defending the trope. I don't like the trope myself, but it is what it is.

This sort of "masculinization" of the women of a story is common for older media. "She's not like the other girls!", "she was raised with 5 brothers, so she's very tough!", "she does (insert activity that is associated with the male stereotype) so she worries no man will ever find her feminine enough to date her", blah blah blah.

It is followed by the author stating that they are still very much women, capable of being wanted and being feminine— you know the rest.

Those characters are always overcompensating for some vulnerability of their past. They were or felt like helpless little girls at some point, so they decided to grow strong to prevent anyone from hurting them or their loved ones again.

It doesn't matter if their natural positions should have given them some advantage. They were kids and more than that, they were women. It's a given that they were going to be discredited.

In Tsunade's case, she was the granddaughter of the two Hokages, a student of the third one, she was a Senju, a promising medic nin. Yet, it took Dan to speak for her for other shinobis to take seriously her proposal of assigning a medic nin to each team, at least until the war was over.

Tsunade innovated the way wars were fought. It is a fact. What needs to be said about medic nins in times of war is that their services will always work in favor of violence. They save soldiers so they can keep fighting, right? To have the best medic nins on your side makes your tropes terrifying to other countries, 'cause yours would not stay down for long. They would die less, get less sick, it'd be harder to take them down.

Tsunade's first vulnerable moment was when her little brother (Nawaki) died. That's her first time really feeling like a helpless little child. Orochimaru was a strong punch to the gut too, but nothing as bad as losing Dan. She convinced herself that she had put a curse on them by accident and isolated herself.

You remember what she's famous for?

Her beauty, her temperament and her skills.

She's pretty, but don't play with her because she will punch your guts to a new galaxy if you dare.

And that's the joke. Haha, this woman won't let you fool around or disrespect her. She doesn't like feeling like she's being dismissed. In many of the comedy relief situations, Tsunade is punching someone (Jiraiya, Naruto) for being inappropriate when talking to women or existing around women

So it's interesting to think how those scenes were supposed to show the audience that Tsunade was strong and capable and worthy of respect. Look, she is dangerous so it's better not to interrupt her while she's speaking or do not underestimate her for being a women

It was explicitly stated in her fight with Madara, where he called her a weak woman. No comedy there.

Now, those funny-violence gags are not reserved for women. We saw Naruto punch people too because he thought they were being unserious.

I think the real problem comes with the fact that such comedy was maximized with Sakura Haruno

Sakura is the original helpless little girl. Before any other female character, we were presented with a too smart for her own good brat with anger issues who based all her worth on how well she could compete on the social scenario of teenage girls.

In order to understand Sakura, we need to place her side by side with Naruto. They are the hero and the heroine of the manga. They were the first male and female characters we saw being bullied. They were both loud and annoying. None of them thought before speaking or considering how their actions could hurt others. They blindly thought they knew what they wanted, who they liked and who they hated. They had their rivals/best friends and that feeling of not belonging, of always being invisible, of being ignored. Naruto accumulated rage appeared in the form of Kurama, but Sakura had that inner version of herself.

All I'm saying is that Sakura is full of issues and insecurities. Her normal life didn't save her from it, despite what other characters could think.

What was Sakura's arc through Naruto Classic? Do you remember? It was her learning that being shinobis was not a game and that she needed to become dangerous if she wanted to be and do anything in that world of hers. It was not enough to memorize concepts, because applying that knowledge in the safety of a classroom was very different from actually fighting for her life.

Sakura spoke mostly through Naruto back in their genin days. We know she impressed Ibiki Morino with her intelligence and Kakashi gave her some high praise during the Chunning Exams. Those comedy relief was meant to show us that she had the potential, but she needed to learn first.

Turning her into a new version of Tsunade was Kishimoto's way of complimenting her. He gave her the beauty, the strength and the skills. Most importantly, Kishimoto gave Sakura the means to make people shut up and listen to her. There is a reason to consider her within the narrative that doesn't extend to her value to other characters (aka how much team 7 cared about her).

What another example? Think of Temari or Chiyo or Kushina. They are all accomplished kunoichis with attitude and a mean punch.

The contrary is the stereotype of quiet girls who are either made fun of for being weird or get discredited for not being the "violent" type.

[lunaneko14]

They want Sakura to be relevant so bad 😂

This manga is KILLING them

Like really who would’ve thought Sakura would fade into obscurity like that after the (fake) promises Kishimoto made to make her equal to Naruto and Sasuke.

Yet here we are.

Naruto is relevant because he’s the title characters father and the source of his conflict with Kawaki. Now he has passed Kurama to Hima.

Sasuke trained Boruto and you can see how heavily he influenced his style and personality.

Both are sealed

Sakura ISN’T

We ain’t see the pink bitch since Boruto part one.

EVEN INO MADE AN APPEARANCE because (like I’ve been saying) she has more usefulness than Sakura being the one to be the phone line to the most important people of Konoha.

Sakura punches and heals. And she doesn’t even do it as well as Tsunade.

THEY DIDNT EVEN SHOW HER IN RELATION TO THE DEAD NINJA. Seeing if there are survivors???? Healing them???? Surely if Sakura has surpassed Tsunade she figured out how to heal these kind of wounds or at least have snails out but NOPE

And then the real kicker

The fact that Hima is getting the spotlight now. You know, THAT *irrelevant* characters daughter?

Remember when they said Himawari was gonna be like her mom (barely having screentime)?

LOOK AT YOU NOW!

Maybe it’s time they start sitting this battle out.

[theuchihalawyer]

SHIKAMARU NEVER WAS NARUTO BEST FRIEND.

(EXCUSE ME FOR BEING BAD AT EXPLAINING)

First, no, Shikamaru was never there for Naruto during his childhood. That was just another filler if you watched that one episode, they never interacted until the chunin exam. Their so called "friendship" doesn't have that much development for Shikamaru to be called Naruto "best friend", either.

—

Now, the first time we see them "interacting" with each other:

Whining fool

Naruto impression of Shikamaru..do I even have to explain? It's obvious that they don't get along and both don't like each other. And we have this panel too, Shikamaru talking about Naruto and his reaction:

Then,

"Choji, Shikamaru and Ino chased after Naruto team in hopes to steal their scroll" (Page 6 from one of those chapters)

Shikamaru sees Naruto as nothing more than a weakling, someone he can take down and discard from the chunin exams, Naruto team is the first one to come up in his mind when Ino talks about finding weaklings, and he makes it clear. Specifically, "Naruto" team, he emphasizes on him.

Sakura's in deep, we can't just leave her, can we!? Wasn't she like your best friend!?

Naruto doesn't influence Shikamaru in this, he was mostly concerned about Ino because of her past friendship with Sakura. It's never about saving Naruto or do something for him.

He only thinks about Ino and what she may decide to do, because if Ino is willing to get into the fight, then her team should too. Not for Naruto. If Ino had decided not to join, I'm assuming they wouldn't have done anything, and continue the exam.

Ino.. Ino.. come on!

He does say "Naruto and Sasuke are deep in trouble!" some pages earlier, but that doesn't change anything, he's joining because Ino decided to:

We can't run away when Ino's ready to risk her life fighting! Not even if we die!

I repeat, it's not about Naruto.

They do their plan, and Sasuke wakes up, and Shikamaru decides to leave for his team's sake (Naruto was unconscious still)

But they end up staying, since the sound team leaves.

Shikamaru checks up on him.. So what about this one? Shall we kick him until he's awake?

Hah, and Choji does want that. Well, comic relief. Anyway..

Just watching you pisses me off!

....Naruto expression also talks by itself. But I mean, the guy wakes up after days of being unconscious, and the first thing he sees the whining fool who called him a idiot earlier telling him "just watching you pisses me off", of course, he's confused.

—

It doesn't let me add more images, but eh, maybe I'll continue it in another post because there are another interactions and development.

[deusvervewrites]

Kith And Kin AU: So, I know that it was established that Sakura revealing why she hates Bakugou causes him to be ostracized from Class 1-A. Do you think that it would eventually come to an end, or just become less bad? And how does Bakugou handle this? Actually, how does Aizawa handle this?

Sakura standing up to Bakugou--and Izuku as well because of Sakura's influence--means Bakugou was never actually as bad as he was in canon. He was still bad don't get me wrong, but it means that when he starts improving it's more obvious to the class.

Bakugou himself doesn't handle it well because he's used to being widely praised, and also he needs that praise due to his crippling self-worth issues.

Honestly I don't think Aizawa would do anything about it.

[etchina-danjon]

Haunted sex anon here would love to see you write out her pregnancy and birthing

Continued from [X]

Sakura just didn’t know how to explain to anyone about her pregnancy. As far as she knew, she was a virgin! And yet she couldn’t deny the multiple positive pregnancy tests, nor all the morning sickness she’s been having. None of it seemed real. Like she was going to suddenly wake up from this nightmare. She was just so young to be a single mother! Her parents were pretty quick to kick her out after finding out that she was not only pregnant but didn’t know who the father was. It made people think that she just slept around and got pregnant by some random man but it just wasn’t true!

Her friends took pity on her and helped her get a place of her own. It was small but had plenty of room for her and the baby. Sakura just couldn’t believe she was having a baby. It just didn’t feel real, and no matter how hard she dug in her memory, she couldn’t figure out who the father was. All that kept returning to her was that night in the inn and there was just no way that resulted in her carrying a child.

It all didn’t fully set in until she had her first ultrasound when she was one month along. Her eyes were wide as the nurse showed her the screen. Showing her the image of the baby growing inside her. It was then that she felt a rush of motherly love flow through her. It made her feel so warm and happy. Sakura felt proud that this was her baby. No longer did she feel scared and unsure. Now she was looking forward to being a mother. It felt like it was something she was always meant to be. The soul inside the baby was also influencing her feelings. Making sure Sakura would want to be his mother. Making sure she was attached to him and happy in her role as a young mother.

Because of her pregnancy, Sakura could no longer do ninja work, so in the coming months, she took on odd jobs to save up money so her and the baby could live comfortably. 

Sakura’s body changed with each month that went by. Her stomach pushed out more and more. Her small breasts plumping up. Hips widening, and ass becoming more round. She over all became so much more curvier and just glowed with motherhood. With each ultrasound she became all the more excited to become a mother. It was all going according to plan for the spirit that impregnated her. She had completely forgotten about worrying who the father was, accepting her role as a single mother and being completely happy about it. Despite the judgemental looks she got for being pregnant so young.

She was on her ninth and final month of pregnancy. Sakura’s stomach was huge at this point against her small frame. She knew she was ready to pop any day now but was still startled when she awoke to the sharp pains of her first contractions. They made her cringe but weren’t so bad at first. She doesn’t know what possessed her but something inside her demanded she give birth at home. Sakura couldn’t deny the demands of what her body wanted, so she didn’t seek help or go to a hospital to deliver her baby. She bore all the pain on her own.

Each hour that went by, the pain got worse. The contractions got closer together. Sakura could hardly focus on anything besides how tight her stomach was, and the pain she was in. The baby was pushing hard against her hips, it made them ache so bad. The building pressure was so unbelievable. She wasn’t sure what was worse, the contractions or the painful pressure. 

Pushing herself out of bed, Sakura held her stomach, limping towards the bathroom, pausing every so often to breathe through another contraction. She hopes maybe a warm shower would help things progress. Sakura had been checking her cervix on and off while she labored. She was dilating like normal but her water just hasn’t burst yet. Each time she pressed her fingers inside her, she could feel the baby’s head stretching her cervix and the hanging sack ready to burst. She was starting to grow impatient.

Sakura stripped, turned on the warm water and got in. Letting out a pleased sigh as the warm water relaxed her muscles. She leaned against the wall, rubbing her swollen stomach, reminding herself to keep breathing. In and out. The contractions had her legs shaking but it seemed like both the warm water and the gravity of her standing help progress things faster. Sakura wasn’t sure how long she stood there against the wall. Baring through the painful contractions that had very little time in between. Suddenly, she felt a sharp pop inside her as her water burst. Fluid and a bit of blood rolled down her legs, quickly being washed away by the water. Sakura was quick to push fingers inside her to check her dilation. Her heart skipped a beat when she felt she was finally at 10 centimeters. 

The time has finally come.

She can start bringing her baby into the world.

Quickly, she turned off the water, not bothering to even attempt to dry off she tried to get  to the bed. Having to pause to deny the painful urge to push until she was on the bed. Climbing up on the bed, Sakura got on all fours, finding the position more comfortable than laying on her back. She rocked forward and back, focusing her breathing. When the next contraction came, she opened her thighs and pushed. She pushed as hard as she could, letting out a loud cry at the pain. The baby’s head was pushing her hip bones apart as it started to press out of her cervix. Sakura knew giving birth would be painful but she never expected it to be this painful.

“Haa~ Haa~ I-i can do this… D-don’t worry b-baby, you’ll be in mommy’s arms soon.”

Sakura had lifted a trembling hand to rub her swollen stomach in a comforting manner. She just had to remain focused. Keep her mind on the fact that soon her baby would be there and she would officially be a mother.

“A-agh!”

Another cry left her, Sakura’s head hanging. She clenched her teeth as she pushed hard again with the next contraction. She could feel the head squeezing from her tight cervix, entering into her awaiting canal. The stretch made her insides ache but she couldn’t stop now.

“Mm.. Mm… Ngh!”

Sakura cried as she pushed hard again, more of the baby’s head sliding into her canal. The lips of her slit was already starting to bulge outward from the weight of the baby’s head. Twitching open and closed. Tears rolled down Sakura’s flushed cheeks, everything hurt so bad. It was so overwhelming. So many emotions were going through her. There was a thin layer of sweat coating her body at this point.

With the next hard push, her slit started to spread open around the head. The top of the head was starting to appear, showing off tufts of brown hair. Sakura rocked forward and back a bit again, her insides were so full. Stretched wider than she ever thought possible but she knew she was made for this. She was meant to be a mother. Her life has always led up to this, she just didn’t realize until she experienced the joy of carrying a child.

“AGH!! Ngh!! I-it hurts so much!”

Sakura cried as she pushed hard again on the baby, more and more of the head started to spread open the lips of her slit. Her hands were gripping tightly onto the sheets under her. She was so close to crowning, she could feel it. The next hard push forced more of the head out. Her slit was now stretched open into a wide O shape. The aching burn finally hit her, making Sakura sob. The lips of her slit twitched around the wide head, “I-it burns! I-it burns!” Sakura tried rocking again hoping to ease the pain. Unable to stop herself, she reached between her legs to touch the top of the baby’s head, rubbing it. Fresh tears rolled down her face. She felt a sense of pride and excitement. That was her baby. She was feeling her baby! It gave her the boost she needed to continue.

Breathing heavily, she waited for the next contraction and pushed. The head barely inched out a little before sucking back in when she relaxed the push. It left Sakura whining. This continued for a few more pushes. The head inching forward and then back, leaving Sakura in a painful crown. When the next contraction came, Sakura clenched her teeth and pushed as hard as she could. Turning her face red from the strain. The head inched forward more and more before POP the head burst out of her with a gush of fluid. Sakura let out a gasp of utter relief. Panting heavily.

She reached between her legs and cupped the dangling head of her child, “S-so close! A-almost there! Soon you’ll be in my arms!” Sakura rolled over, laying on her back, propped up, so she could hold onto the head and help ease the baby out, “Nnn! Ah!” She cried out as another contraction came, she pushed hard, the shoulders of the baby bulging her out more. The first shoulder popped out, and with the next push the second one popped out too. Sakura’s trembling hands were holding the baby as she gave a final, hard push, sliding the body from her abused insides and into her awaiting hands. She quickly scooped up the baby as it let out a cry of life. Sakura cradled the baby boy against her chest so lovingly. A sense of overwhelming pleasure rolled through her body. She laid back against her pillows admiring her new baby. The baby looked nothing like her with dark brown hair and eyes. The baby looked as he did in his past life. His plans were all a complete success. The young girl was able to carry him to term and birth him back into the world. Thanks to the spirit’s influence, Sakura was completely smitten with the baby. So overwhelmingly happy to be a mother.

With some slight work, Sakura was able to push out the placenta, and found scissors to cut the umbilical cord. Getting up on shaky legs she got a towel to clean the baby, and then wrapped him in a blanket. She settled back down on the bed, relaxing after going through all of that. She let her newborn son nurse from one of her breasts. Feeling so much love for him as she felt his small mouth suckling on her puffy, dark nipple. Pulling out her warm milk.

Because of the first spirit’s success in being reborn using her body, other spirits started circling her. It won’t be long before Sakura finds herself mysteriously pregnant again, now that it’s been proven she had the best body to give spirits new lives….

[camiefromstatefarm]

We're back with some more 'Upper Moon Demons' headcanons!!! Today, we're focusing on my personal favorite. Slight NSFW warning.

Upper Moon 4

Hantengu/Hanito Jigoku (Part 1)

- Born in 1611, in a less populated town near Kyōto City.

Koki Jigoku, his father, was an extremely handsome and charismatic ladies' man. Parenthood was unexpected, but his heart melted when he saw his newborn son, who bore a striking resemblance to him. Despite his love for his wife, Koki struggled to abandon his womanizing ways..

Otsuru Jigoku (née Aisaki), his mother, was a strikingly attractive young woman with a caring personality. She had sun-kissed skin, a slender yet dramatic lean body, reminiscent of Devon Aoki, a heart-shaped face, warm brown hair, and silver to orchid eyes always filled with energy. Otsuru loved her husband intensely, but her love often turned deranged, driving her to murderous jealousy towards his frequent infidelities. She came from a wealthy family.

- Even as a young boy, Hanito was a stunningly handsome child with a sturdy athletic build and tanned skin. His spiky black hair messy and full, framing his brooding heart-shaped face and accentuating his piercing onyx eyes. His eyebrows were thick and expressive, often laced with a dramatic display of emotions. His features were sharp and chiseled, with high cheekbones and a straight high-bridged nose. He also bore a mischievous devilish grin.

- Hanito's life of crime began at just seven years old, not out of necessity, but sheer desire and bad influences. He ran with a trio of urchin boys, forming a band of young thieves who stole whatever they could to fill their pockets. Surprisingly, his parents, Koki and Otsuru, didn't reprimand him for his delinquent behavior. Instead, they adopted a lenient approach, telling him that as long as he avoided getting caught, he wouldn't face trouble at home. This unconventional parenting allowed Hanito to hone his thieving skills, shaping him into a skilled young thief.

- Stealing meant buying whatever they wanted, but for free. Hanito-kun rarely strayed from his tight-knit group, seeking the safety net of their protection. Hanito had a knack for evading capture, thanks to three key factors: his incredible speed, his skillful lying and manipulation, which convinced people he was just an innocent child, and his loyal clique of local fangirls who often helped him out of sticky situations.

Emiko-chan, gasps: Girls! Here comes Hanito-kun, act natural!

(Hanito passes by and smiles slightly before leaving)

Sakura-chan, giggles: You see that? He smiled at me!

Yumi-chan, cooing: No, I'm pretty sure he had his eyes on me!

Emiko-chan, huffing: Nuh uh! He was definitely checking out my hair!

(None of them realizing their missing hairpins)

Hanito, gripping all 3 hair pins: Too easy.

- The manifestations of Hantengu's emotions take on physical forms that reflect the age where he experienced those emotions most intensely.

Zohakuten 👹

Year 1623; a store clerk by the name of Mr. Yamada was fed up with the troublesome child's lies.

Hanito, defiantly: Let me go you big bully! There really was a wolf!

(He struggles trying to free his ear from the store clerk's harsh grip)

Mr. Yamada, angrily opens the door: Otsuru, your brat is at it againー

Horrifying. There knelt Otsuru ominously, in a tattered old kimono ー stained with blood spatter, one she kept specifically for these occasions ー with an ecstatic expression. Before her lay the lifeless body of a curvaceous young woman, a ravishing beauty with a face like a porcelain doll and dark sea-green hair. Her thighs impaled by two knives and her pale mint eyes froze in perpetual horror, surrounded by beads of sweat.

Otsuru, glances behind her: Ah, welcome Yamada-sama! Do come in, we're having a family reunion of sorts...

Hanito swiftly averted his gaze, closing his eyes to shield himself from the uncomfortable graphics. His reaction betrayed a familiarity with his mother's brutal outbursts, a hint that he had witnessed her madness before. In contrast, Mr. Yamada stood frozen, his voice caught in his throat as shock and terror rendered him speechless.

(Otsuru rose, her movements graceful like a cat)

Otsuru, curls her lips: And you, dear friend, are just in time for dinner. I do hope you have an... appetite for the macabre.

(She walks closer making Mr. Yamada free his grasp on Hanito's ear, slowly retreating)

Mr. Yamada, sweating: No... no! What have you done to that poor woman!

Otsuru, pats her son's head: Hush now, everything is fine... I'm bound to tidy the house after this.

Hanito, crying: How much more that nasty stuff is going to happen here?

Otsuru, gently and soothing: Darling, you know I don't have other options...

Mr. Yamada, pointing: You... what are you teaching that poor child, youー you crazy bitch!

Otsuru's eyes blazed with a dark intensity, her gaze flashing like a stormy sky. The air seemed to thicken, heavy with malevolence, as the unhinged madness gave way to a sinister wrath. Her long hair whipped around her face like a flail, as if the wind itself was fueling her fury. Her stained kimono fluttering behind her like a dark cloud.

Otsuru, in an ominous voice: Forgive me, good sir... but I'm afraid you've dug your own grave!

(A knife slid out of her sleeve and she launched at him. However, Mr. Yamada was quicker and dodged her attack)

Mr. Yamada, cornering her from behind: So reckless...

Hanito, yelling: Momma!

(Basically what happened was Mr. Yamada managed to grab Otsuru's wrist, twisting it, forcing her to drop the knife, and knocked the woman out.)

Mr. Yamada, grumbles: I'd be damned if I wasn't a former martial artist. I'm sorry to say it, kid, but your mother's actions have earned her a reckoning. She'll face trial and judgment for her wrongdoings.

Hanito's tear-stained face twisted into a furious scowl, his large bushy eyebrows furrowing in anger. His piercing eyes narrowed, flashing with intense animosity, his glare so heavy that it almost crushed the store clerk. It was unnerving to see how this boy could be both seriously handsome and intimidatingly fierce at the same time.

Hanito, darkly: You evil son of prick! Leave my momma alone or... or I'll kill you!

(He charges at Mr. Yamada attempting to punch the latter, but was triped over by Yamada's sliding kick)

Mr. Yamada, lifts Otsuru up: Don't try to fight me, Hanito, I'm three times your size.

Hanito, grabbing onto Yamada's ankle: No!!! I won't let a scumbag like you give me orders!!!

(Hanito twists Yamada's ankle causing the latter to wince and kick him back)

Mr. Yamada, scoffs: Blasted child. You're lucky I respect your father enough to let you off the hook.

The 12-year-old's rage thickened, his glare twice as spiteful as he rose from his position, gracefully like the fall was nothing. He balled both hands fist, ready to spring into action when two people showed up. A samurai and a middle-aged woman with the same green hair as the victim.

Samurai, analyzing the situation: So if I'm correct, this was the lady who your daughter was last seen with.

(The middle-aged woman just nodded)

Mr. Yamada: I fear to inform you... that your daughter is dead...

(The middle-aged woman weaped)

Mr. Yamada, frowning: I was just taking her son, Hanito, back home. That kid has been in a lot of hot water lately, I wanted to have a word with Otsuru about this...

Hanito, looks down bitterly: I was telling the truth...

Mr. Yamada, shouts: There was no wolf and never one to begin with!

Samurai, tapping chin: Note the freshness of the blood suggests the incident occurred within the past 30 minutes.

Mr. Yamada, still disturbed: The girl is inside. Poor thing was bleeding head to toe.

This was a night no one forgotten, especially Zohakuten who held onto that memory like an ideology.

Basically after that fiasco, Otsuru was convinced of 13 accounts of homicide and sentenced to death by hanging. Nobody wanted to inform Hanito what happened to his mother, believing it'd be too hard on him.

- To cope with the void left by his mother's absence, Hanito's fragile mind conjured a distorted narrative, convincing himself that she was a monster who had abandoned him, rather than confront the painful truth of her fate.

- After his mother's departure, Hanito spent his remaining teenage years by his father's side. Seeking a new beginning, they relocated to Gion, a prestigious district in Kyōto renowned for its vibrant entertainment and traditional geisha culture.

- Hanito only grew more handsome by the day. His voice deepened, and he became taller & stronger. His spiky hair had grown longer, reaching his shoulders. His heart-shaped face still brooded with intensity, but his features had matured, sharpening his cheekbones and nose. His piercing onyx eyes smoldering and framed by thick eyebrows that gave him a debonair look. At thirteen, he was already the most attractive guy in Gion.

- He idolized his womanizer father, emulating his ways but with a more sinister edge.

Hanito, exclaiming: Father, teach me how to charm the ladies!

Koki, smiling: Ah, my son, it's all about confidence and charm. Watch and learn!

- As young Hanito honed his skills, his reputation grew, and so did his ego. He began to see himself as a legend, a master of charm and deception. And his father, well, he was the one who had taught him everything he knew.

- He employed his charms to lure unsuspecting girls into his trap, only to rob them blind. Unlike his father, Koki, who had treated his mistresses with kindness and sincerity, Hanito's intentions were far more dark. He delighted in leaving a trail of broken hearts in his wake, his beauty and charisma mere tools for exploitation. With each conquest, Hanito's confidence grew, as did his reputation as a heartless Casanova.

His father, Koki, looked on with a mix of pride and concern, aware of the darkness brewing within his son. Yet, he remained silent, allowing Hanito's destructive path to continue unchecked.

- At 14, Hanito experienced his first kiss under the soft glow of a lantern on a bench, in a secluded area of the Gion District. Maiya, his girlfriend, rested her head on his shoulder, her gentle eyes sparkling in the dim light. With his arm wrapped around her, Hanito felt a sense of vulnerability he'd never known before. As their lips touched, he tasted the sweetness of innocence, leaving him breathless. Maiya may not have been as pretty as the ryotei girls who often fawned over him, but to Hanito, she was cute in her own right. Her gentle soul and kind eyes captivated him. In that moment, Hanito felt like a different kind of man.

- Unfortunately, their relationship wouldn't last very long. Hanito's temper and insensitivity brought Maiya distress. Because of that, their relationship ended on bad terms that would leave the spiky-haired boy with his guard up.

- On his 16th birthday, Hanito's life took a reckless turn. He lost his virginity in a wild encounter with three bad bitches in one room, quite tumultuous but worth it.

Rorerei: a former geisha that kind of resembles a young Meisa Kuroki.

Kyoka: the daughter of the second wealthiest man in town & somewhat resembles young Fukada Kyoko.

Nozomi: a waitress who looked a bit like a young Nozomi Sasaki.

- They'd do it again the next night in the same Ryokan. Hanito enjoyed every minute of it. A cute girl named Mika ー cousin of Maiya ー would walk in on them while trying to find her room. This would fluster the young man greatly. However, Mika was... chilled with it and even joined in the fun.

When Maiya found out about what happened, she gave her cousin a 48 hour long lecture.

✅️

Aizetsu 😿

- At 18, Hanito's world was shattered when his father, Koki, died under mysterious circumstances. The discovery of Koki's lifeless body at dawn, drained of blood and beyond salvation, left Hanito reeling. Consumed by grief and abandonment, he plummeted into a dark depression, desperately seeking solace from the anguish. In his darkest moments, Hanito attempted to escape the pain through self-destructive means, but the void left by his father's absence only seemed to grow.

Aizetsu is the second physically youngest of Hantengu's clones. Since Hanito would no longer wore his hair spiky after turning 19.

- This led him craving solitude in the most somber area of Nishijin, where he could escape the world for a while. His only companion was a Japanese Bobtail cat he found injured by the roadside. He took her in, nursing her back to health by bandaging her paw and feeding her. He named her Usui, inspired by the rain that fell on the day they met.

- This was the second time Hanito displayed compassion towards another being. Together, he and Usui weathered the rainy days, a somber but comforting duo in the midst of Kyoto's bustling streets.

- In moments of introspection, Hanito would often hear his father's gentle voice whispering in his mind, urging him to stay strong and press on. The memory of Koki's words, though faint, remained a comforting presence, echoing through Hanito's thoughts like a soft breeze on a summer night.

- Eleven months later, Usui would find her siblings again. Although Hanito didn't want her to go, he did as he knew what it was like to be separated from family. But not before Usui rubbed against her close companion's leg and purred contentedly.

This version of Hanito became the base/blueprint for Aizetsu's creation. Each clone gain power using a series of events in Hanito's 87 years everytime he'd experience that emotion.

✅️

✅️

Karaku 💚

Year 1630; was when Hanito finally decided to move again and start over.

- Having grown into a stunningly gorgeous young man, his hair grew moderately past shoulder-length and wavy in a very sexy, satisfying, and stylish sense. His charm and good looks intensified, making him a magnet and true Casanova Killer. With his narrow piercing gaze, captivating smile, thick eyebrows, lean muscular build, nimble fingers, and glowing tawny skin, he was extremely irresistible to many. His voice fully deepened, and he grew taller, exuding confidence and allure.

- New year, new him. Hanito moved to Shimabara, a fascinating red-light district in Kyōto where life was an endless party.

- Hanito got to try liquor for the first time. A quarter cup of shochu mixed with ¾ cup of yuzu was enough to satisfy his taste buds. By the way, when he says the ladies at Shimabara were fine, he means it. During his time in Shimabara, he found himself hooking up with every woman who flirted with him. And that's saying a lot because Hanito was the talk of all town, a head-turner. Husbands would told onto their wives more closely at the charmer's presence, bachelors envied Hanito and wanted to be him and some were even mesmerized, many maidens found themselves falling for his charms and brooding persona, and the top most gorgeous women would even spend the night with him. As a result, Hanito acted overly cocky and prideful in many situations.

Let's just say, the ladies at Shimabara were like Makio/Mitsuri/Daki-level badness. Effortlessly pretty faces, voluptuous figures, stylish sense of fashion, sexy, and hot personalities.

- Let's just say, Hanito almost encountered the dreaded Kukushisen (Syphilis) this one fateful night. Nana, the chick he was with was really hot and was very experienced, luckily she brought mika (paper condoms) with her and they had a blast.

- Hanito actually first met Muzan at a party....

Hantengu's name holds a dual meaning, translating to both "Braggart" and "Half Tengu". The former suggests that The Demon King encountered him in a state of boastful pride, while the latter reveals a connection to the mythical Tengu creatures from Japanese folklore. Tengu are known for their striking appearance, featuring wings, beaks, and formidable magical abilities, as well as their mischievous and powerful nature. This namesake is fitting, as Hantengu's Blood Demon Art allows him to split his body in half, unleashing Tengu-like clones that embody the same quick and cunning spirit as their mythical counterparts.

- Unfortunately, they never got the chance to interact as the party got raided by a bunch of drunken thugs. However, despite being initially annoyed by Hanito's ego and two-faced nature, Muzan was intrigued by his soon-to-be-UM4's ability to charm and pickpocket people.

- Hanito's journey would take an interesting turn as he developed sadomasochistic tendencies. This transformation began with a chance encounter, where he found himself engaged in a captivating conversation with an alluring older woman... whose name remains a mystery. Deciding to step outside for some alone time, she pretty much... just dined in, left an indelible mark on his sensitive place. The sensation made him wince, but somehow he was enjoying it.

- Giving and receiving pain was more than just a fetish. He found himself really enjoying the suffering of people who wronged him. Heartbreak no longer hurt anymore, he was addicted to agony it brought him. Pain was pleasure.

- At 21, Hanito visited his boyhood town, only to discover his old home gone. In its place stood an Inari Shrine, alongside a garden where 13 graves lay next to cherry blossom trees in silent remembrance. He thought this view was rather satisfying and pleasing.

After Otsuru's heinous crimes came to light, the authorities embarked on a meticulous investigation, meticulously dismantling the house piece by piece to uncover the gruesome secrets within. Their grim task was to retrieve the remains of the 13 unfortunate women who had fallen victim to her brutality, whose bodies had been hidden or buried in various clandestine locations throughout the dwelling.

✅️

✅️

✅️

Urogi 🕊

Years 1623-1632, the town's population and commercial activities would slowly increase throughout the years.

The trio of urchins Hanito used to hang out with years ago were now successful yashi/yamichi (peddlers) ー by the way; their names were Bakuto, Omaru, and Kaito respectively: smooth-talking salesmen who may not be the honest people when it came selling things (Scam Artist Douma-san from the Academy AU should really hire these guys)

You may or may not have remembered the three girls who were obsessed with Hanito from the beginning. Emiko embraced her distinctive hair color - a pale silver with a soft baby blue undertone - rejecting the pressure to conform by dyeing it black. Meanwhile, Sakura harbored subtle affections for Yumi, but ultimately chose duty over desire and married a lord. In contrast, Yumi found true happiness with Omaru, her heart full of joy in their union.

Sakura, curiously: Who is that tall, dark, strong, and handsome brute over there?

Yumi, blushing: You're telling me. He's a snack.

Sakura, in a teasing voice: But, Yumi-chan. What about Omaru?

Yumi, nervous giggles: Oh, yeah... I forgot.

Emiko, looks up from sweeping: Girls? The porch isn't gunna clean itself.

Sakura, without looking away: Just a minute Emiko. We're too busy swooning over this hot new boy.

Emiko, raises a brow: Who?

(She walks over, trying to get a peak)

Emiko, surprised: H-Hanito-sama?

Well, they were both surprised to see each other. Emiko has now grown into the most beautiful woman Hanito has ever see. With her fierce meadow green eyes, flowy white hair, adorable smile, delicate frame, femininity, and great personality; she became the first woman he ever truly loved.

And Emiko; she always had a thing for that boy. Even after realizing he swiftly swiped her hair pin when they were little. She was absolutely smitten upon seeing this man again. He made her heart sing like no other person has.

- The time Hanito spent with Emiko were the best 2 months of his life. They shared an instant connection, discovering a deep affinity for each other's interests and values. Hanito, attuned to the subtleties of human emotions, realized his feelings for Emiko went beyond friendship after just three weeks of togetherness - he had fallen deeply in love.

- They got married on the first day of July, in the same Inari Shrine built where Hanito's childhood home used to be. He was overjoyed by this event, believing he might have a chance to a normal life.

- After bidding farewell to the town, they escaped to a serene foothill of Mt. Hiei, where they built a secluded haven near the charming town of Sakamoto.

"We are in love in love, haven't you heard. How we rock each other's world!"

(- Avril Lavigne)

Well that was fun to write! Considering Hantengu's backstory wasn't as detailed or shown like some of the other characters, and due the fact that he lived a relatively long human life... It made room for plenty of creativity.

[descendant-of-truth]

A Rudimentary Translation of: The Dark Mage, Schezo

(The video here is not mine, it's from the channel "The Madou Puyo Archivist." It's just here so you can follow along the translation with audio)

So, I was already considering doing something like this, since so many of these Puyo Drama CDs remain untranslated as far as I could find. But upon seeing this post from @douglasanondr, I ended up checking out this particular CD, and after deciding that it seemed doable, I got to work.

I'm definitely not fluent in Japanese yet, so some parts are missing with a summary of the general gist, and the phrasing isn't always the most accurate, but! This fandom needs all the translators it can get, so even if I'm not the "best" person for the job, I still wanted to contribute. I also included translator notes when applicable.

With the preamble out of the way, I hope you all enjoy it!

-The Dark Mage, Schezo-

Schezo: S-stop it! Don't lay a hand on him!

Witch: Aaaand… got it!

Schezo: Please, Witch! Stop!!

Witch: Now then, here we go! *cheerful effort sound*

Onion Pixie: *despair noises*

---

Witch: *giggles* I've gotten the magic skins from this big ol' onion!

Onion Pixie: *sad onion noises*

Schezo: O-Onion's skin…! YOU DEMON! VILLAINESS!!

Witch: What's the problem? I only took a single piece of it, it's fine!

Schezo: But he's so cute, don't you feel bad for him?!

Witch: …You…

Schezo: What?!

Witch: Somehow, it feels like you've grown soft.

Schezo: Huh?

Witch: Like, it feels as though even you're expression's gotten softer than before.

Schezo: Hmph! What nonsense are you speaking? I am the Dark Mage, Schezo. To say I'm soft--

Witch: Yeah, yeah. Well, it might just be a misunderstanding on my part. Now then, have a nice day!

---

Schezo: I've gotten soft, she says? Hmph! That can't be… but then again, it might be possible that I've been influenced by this place called Primp in some ways, lately. After all, it's peaceful and quiet here--

Amitie: Ah! It's Mr. Pervert! Heyoo~!

Sig: Pervert--!

Lidelle: H-hello!

Schezo: Who. are you. calling. A PERVERT?!

Amitie: Hahaha! Sorry, sorry! [something I can't make out] But honestly, what does "pervert" mean, anyway?

Sig: "Pervert…"

Sig: I'll explain! It is the process of a bug changing its shape, with the purpose of developing from a pupa into a proper insect.

Lidelle: So that's what it means…

Sig: Uh-huh.

Amitie: Impressive!

Schezo: Who are you talking about?!

Amitie: Hey, Mr. Pervert, when will you transform into one?

Schezo: I WON'T!

[Side note: this might be a play on the words "hentai" (pervert) and "henshin" (transform). Perhaps Sig got the second half of the words mixed up?]

Lidelle: Aah! I-I'm scared…

Amitie: Whoops, I guess we got him angry?

Schezo: Hmph! Do as you please! Farewell!

---

Schezo: The children here sure are carefree, and stupid, and full of it! [another thing I can't make out, he might be proclaiming himself a "stoic"] If I've gotten soft, then it's their fault! I need to look for a way back…!

*sounds of Raffina training*

Raffina: Not done yet! RAFFINA SPECIAL!

*boom!*

Schezo: Hey, you.

Raffina: KYAA!

Schezo: What are you doing?

Raffina: I-interrupting a lady's training, that's awfully rude of you!

Schezo: I see. Training, huh?

Raffina: Yes, pay attention! …If you would!

Schezo: But if you're training to be a mage, you shouldn't be practicing martial arts, but spells… hm?

Raffina: Shut up, if you please! That's my choice, isn't it?!

Schezo: I see, you're similar to Rulue, then.

Raffina: Huh?

Schezo: You're not very good at spells, so you use martial arts, isn't that right?

Raffina: H-how… how do you know about that?

Schezo: I understand power when I see it.

Raffina: Ah, is that so? Well, that's enough. Get going along to somewhere else. I need to continue my training. …Hey, wait!

Schezo: Hgk! What with this?! It's quite heavy…

Raffina: Don't just randomly try to pick up one of my dumbbells!

Schezo: Well, I'm somewhat interested in it. However, I think it's a little too heavy for a "lady"--

Raffina: It's not "a little too" anything! If I'm going to aim for the top of my school, then I'm going to need strong muscles!

Schezo: Hmm.

Raffina: Wh-what?

Schezo: Why do you work so hard for that?

Raffina: Huh?

Schezo: This "Primp" place is quiet and peaceful. You don't need to be strong to live here. Even the magic school's students are peaceful simpletons. I don't think it's necessary for you to go to so much trouble for it.

Raffina: I don't understand what you're babbling about!

Schezo: Like I said…

Raffina: I'm doing all of this to reach my ideal self. Whether it's peaceful or not, I don't care in the slightest! O~hohohoho!

Schezo: Ahh! I see… Heh. I get it now.

Raffina: Huh?

Schezo: It's nothing. I just think you have the right idea.

Raffina: Well, I'm not really sure what you mean, but alright. That aside, you mentioned the other students from the magic school earlier, right?

Schezo: That I did.

Raffina: They're… t-they're, they're sort of my friends, so I would rather you didn't make fun of them.

Schezo: Hm?

Raffina: It's true that they're awfully carefree, but at the same time… well, at least to some extent, they're working hard, too.

Schezo: Oh?

Raffina: That's why, I've decided that I'm going to shine the most out of all of them!

Schezo: Hm.

Raffina: So… um, so that's… hm? AAAH, I FOUND HIM!

Schezo: AAH, what's this, all of a sudden?!

Raffina: It's him, it's him! It's that guy I've been seeing that guy a lot around here lately!

Schezo: Hm? That's… Satan?!

Raffina: [can't quite make out what she says here, but basically she plans to challenge him to a Puyo Battle]

Schezo: Wait, no, he's--!

Raffina: Hold it! You there!

Satan: Hm? And the reason this person is interrupting the Demon King's lovely stroll would be…?

Raffina: You're pretty strong, aren't you? [Another thing I can't quite make out, she's making an offer of some kind but it doesn't immediately sound like it has the word "battle" in it]

Satan: Hmph. How interesting… to approach the great Satan, you must be strong yourself, no?

Raffina: *giggles*

Satan: I won't treat anyone who comes at me differently, even if they're a girl. Let's go!

Schezo: W-wait!

Raffina: O~hohoho! That's exactly how I want it!

*puyos go bloop bloop*

Satan: Ohh? It seems you're actually pretty good. However, it's too bad; nobody else can match the great Satan! Let's go, Catastrophe!

Raffina: H-he's fast! There's no way I can keep up! My chain isn't enough, it's going to collapse!

[I couldn't make out if she actually said "collapse" or not but it was the closest thing that made sense]

Schezo: Hm! Dunamis!

Raffina: Eh? I've… been protected?

Schezo: This battle… is on me.

Raffina: Don't underestimate me! Even without your help, I--!

Schezo: Don't get the wrong idea. This geezer is still too much for you.

Schezo: Besides…

Satan: Oh? The Dark Mage, huh? What's wrong? You've got a good expression on your face today.

Schezo: Besides! For some reason, I've suddenly felt like competing in battle.

Satan: HAHAHAHAHA! It's been a while since we've had a serious competition. Come at me, Schezo!

Schezo: I was thinking the same thing! Let's go, Satan!

Raffina: Urrgh, even though this was MY battle…!

Schezo: Just as Witch said, I may have gotten a little softer. But no matter where I go, no matter who I meet, it doesn't matter. I strive for my ideal, regardless of where I am. I'm the most spectacular Dark Mage, Schezo!

-The End-

[theheirofthesharingan]

Random question, but let's say that Itachi lived right? Like all the way to Boruto, do you think Itachi would probably be that one, almost, father figure to Sarada in a way? Considering since Sasuke has always been away from the two of them (Sakura and Sarada) if Itachi decided to stay in Konoha instead of traveling with Sasuke? Also I wonder how Itachi would react to Sasuke being with Sakura as well, I wonder, what do you think?

Interesting question.

To answer this, we need to consider some major factors that were crucial in shaping their lives.

If itachi lived, he should have the development he did during the war i.e. realizing treating Sasuke like a baby was a bad choice he made all along.

Sasuke doesn't know Itachi is alive. Why would he leave the village in the first place if Itachi was alive?

Itachi doesn't know where Sasuke is. Why else would Itachi stay in the village if he could be with his brother?

Konoha has somehow cleared his name and acknowledged its own crimes against the clan.

Still, I'm going to answer this question with the ideas that are independent of each other and don't need each other to exist (if that makes sense?)

I think Itachi would be a terrible father figure to Sarada. He didn't grow up to lead a normal life full of love and comfort. He was a Shinobi who was trained to kill. That's what he did all his life and he never had the time to be anything other than that. He loved Sasuke a lot, but his expression was thoroughly violent, although under extreme duress, and in a slightly easier life he'd have served better. He doesn't know how to be a normal person. He doesn't understand how to be something that's not a Shinobi and a killer. He was conditioned since his childhood to live a certain way and the change in the lifestyle would not change anything for him. I personally don't see him being able to guide Sarada or be a positive/healthy influence in her life. He can't give anything to her, or anyone, for that matter.

He's way, way too damaged as a person. Even if you include therapy sessions those won't erase his past and what he feels about himself. He can't offer anything in a bonding that isn't with Sasuke. He'd still feel some affection towards Sarada. He has no reason to not like her, but he can't be a parent figure to her. I mean, isn't that the whole reason Sasuke, too, isn't a 'good father' to Sarada? He too is damaged beyond repair.

Some anti-SS content under the cut. No slander or bashing of the characters, but my opinion on why Itachi might not approve of Sakura as his brother's life partner. I'll tag the post accordingly. Please don't read if you're a fan of the pairing.

He will not be overly thrilled about Sakura being in Sasuke's life. Sasuke didn't love Sakura and Sakura never loved Sasuke. She was obsessed with an image of his she found alluring and his absence in her life fed that longing further, making her feel she loved him. He was a trophy for her she was to win in the contest of her rivalry against Ino.

In other words, she had no genuine feelings for Sasuke.

Sasuke, too, never felt any affiliation towards her. Yes, there were some moments he cared about her deeply, but he's genuinely kind and caring towards people. If he loved her he'd be more open about his feelings.

When Itachi met Team 7 in the Kazekage Rescue Arc, he paid no attention to Sakura. His attention was solely on Naruto and was happy to see Naruto had grown so much from the last time they met. There was a reason he entrusted Sasuke with Naruto. And he wouldn't be too pleased to know that Sakura once tried to kill his brother for whom he bore the worst pains and sins in his heart.

That alone would infuriate him. However, it wouldn't matter to him if Sasuke really loved Sakura, because I don't think the Itachi that bid farewell to Sasuke in the war would claim any stakes on him. If Sasuke loved Sakura he would be okay with it, but not trust her. Itachi's brain works in different ways. xD

Itachi would also understand there's a reason his brother doesn't want to be with his family. And his lack of affection towards them would tell him everything. He decided things for Sasuke when he saw him as a child in the past, but won't make the same mistakes again.

I think he'd like Sarada, but won't be extremely fond of Sakura. Though I don't see him being good with kids at all.

[seekers-who-are-lovers]

Wakamiya, Yukiya and the lady ravens

So far, I’d like to commend the series composition writer Yukiko Yamamuro for reinterpreting Chisato Abe’s novel and patching up the first two volumes of the book series (and the others maybe) into one cohesive narrative while altering some things to make it more comprehensible.

If you haven’t seen the 12th episode, beware of spoilers from here on:

Yukiya

In the manga, he only showed up when Wakamiya asked him to assist him on how to demonstrate the utility of the Ue, their raven suit, concerning Samomo’s death. (Of course, it is given that he might just be in the background the whole time.) While in the anime, he’s become the stand-in for Hamayu. The writer altered the dialogue and scenes to fit to Yukiya, a sort of Jiminy Cricket to Wakamiya. His assistant through and through.

The barriers

Instead of setting up a screen between the Prince and the princesses, Anime*Wakamiya has once again broken the protocol that he can see them and talk to them without the bamboo curtains. (He is allowed to break the rules, but the candidates cannot.)

Shiratama

Honestly, this is the most heartwarming scene in the 12th episode. It is not a big smile, but Wakamiya has done so, perhaps relieved, seeing that Shiratama has finally listened to her heart, while Yukiya is beaming watching his cousin reunited with her lover Kazumi. The bluffing has worked, even though Yukiya thinks it is an overkill while Wakamiya insists they haven’t done the deed yet. Anyway, he has done the scrutiny with so much care and respect. He was not as brutal as in the manga where calling her out was actually a push for her to think of her own mind.

He is exercising his right to be a just ruler here, which he at first was not so sure of how would it turn out.

Yukiya: What are you trying to get out of this choice?

Wakamiya: I wonder. Heaven knows how this will go.

But in the end, he’s begun to weigh both sides, give advices, tell it what it is, and encourage Shiratama and Masuho no Susuki to see what are their other opportunities other than marrying him.

It is true that he also doesn’t have a good opinion on Sakura Blossom Palace due to what transpired and/or is transpiring there. For him it stands for prison, of human follies, a snake pit, of the way humans drag each other down to the point of wishing the other harm, powerful men using young women as mere tools to advance power and influence. He knows it because his own mother had been one.

From the novel:

The wind was fluttering the young master's black hair. His face was white in the moonlight. A handsome, unpleasant person. But affectionate. Yukiya looked at the prince for a long time and spoke cautiously a little later.

“I know that my words will sound cowardly now. But Shiratama from the North House is my cousin... When I found out that Your Highness cares about the hearts of the daughters of the four houses, I felt lighter in my heart. After all, you don't consider them as tools in the political struggle.”

He's wilful, no doubt. Sharp, often misunderstood. But being with him turned out to be not bad at all.

(Note: this isn’t an official EN translation)

Masuho no Susuki

Because they changed so much from the manga, I guess we have to wait what will happen in the upcoming episodes concerning Masuho no Susuki.

(In the novel, she wrote to Wakamiya to personally come to the Sakura Blossom Palace, asked Sumio to find Hamayū and when he did Masuho kept her in her entourage secretly.)

The way Wakamiya asks the candidates if they can foresee a future with him as his empress is devoid of romanticism. He doesn’t mince words nor let them expect heaven when it is not.

One gets the impression that he really doesn’t want to get married. It is just a stupid rule that he must have a consort when he ascends the throne.

Did I say that I love Masuho’s hairstyle? Yes, I do!

Asebi

It is amusing to read the shocked comments from the Team Asebi fans. (Sorry!) The Girl has fooled many with her demure and innocent, yet naive, face.

From Asebi’s VA, Rina Honnizumi:

Asebi is very lovely, and it makes you think, “This kind of child is called a princess,” and has a charm that makes you want to protect her. But when I auditioned, I read the original work and said, “I see, this kind of girl!” The way she looks is quite different at the beginning and at the end.

Many people still don’t want to believe that she is not what everyone thinks she is. Behind this face is a wily young woman ready to crush everyone who is on her way. And we all thought it was Shiratama.

On the other hand, her half sister, Futaba, has entered the list of characters officially. Poor girl, who suffered in the hands of her own sister.

The way Asebi answers Wakamiya, “no matter what the cost,” her cunningness, and her clear discrimination between the court ravens and hill ravens, you cannot simply excuse her ignorance. Neither Wakamiya. He hates her from the bottom of his heart. We will find out more next week the reasons he does. And it seems that it is ominous as the sound director posted on X that they “deliberately left out the music for the preview of the next episode.”

Hamayu

I am curious how will they reintroduce her to the story. Are they preparing for her mini-arc? Will they follow the novel/manga but with a different twist?

The fluttering cherry blossoms

They symbolise two different things and always in tune with the music. They can be flying softly, dancing around the characters (a positive realisation) or hitting them harshly when the wind blows (signals danger, distress).

What a nice touch.

[thelunarfairy]

The relationship between Tsukasa, Yashiro and Amane

The two wolves and little red riding hood.

You must still be thinking about the kiss Tsukasa gave Nene, am I right?

The bond these three have has been there since the beginning of the story, but Tsukasa didn't get the spotlight he should have because everyone was too worried about how he was a bad boy who should be punished.

We're dealing with a temporal paradox, so things are going to be difficult to connect. Initially Tsukasa should have disappeared with the red house and Amane would live and become a teacher in the future.

Then, a girl enters the red house and meets Tsukasa, I imagine she caught his attention first because of the way she reacted when she saw him for the first time (I'll talk about this later) and second because she knows Amane.

So here the future changes. The boy decides to return after finding out about his tragic future, but let's not forget Nene and Kou. He remembers them, he called her to play again.

So think with me, Tsukasa came back, lived and saw things we don't know yet. He was asking Amane to fix the watch, why? Did he want to change something from the past?

We don't know what happened between the twins, but we know that Tsukasa needs Nene. Tsukasa has been in the story since the mokkes had their rumor changed, wasn't it Sakura who changed it? So, did Tsukasa make Yashiro hear the rumors about Hanako-san and go knock on his door?

We didn't see how Nene heard the rumors about Hanako, we already started the story with her summoning him. So there is a possibility that it was Tsukasa's influence.

Ok lunar fairy, what do you mean by all this?

Tsukasa has been making the story move from the beginning, the rumors he spread force Hanako to intervene and remove Yorishiro's seals from the mysteries. He knows that the only one can remove is Yashiro, something Hanako also knows about, so Tsukasa brings the two together.

Tsukasa knows that Nene likes Amane because she tells him so. When he was a baby, this was strangely one of the first questions he asked her. He suddenly asks her if she likes him, she gives a neutral answer, then he asks her if she likes Amane and she confirms.

"We are the same" - he says

Because he also likes Amane. But leaving that aside, Tsukasa knows that Yashiro likes Amane, but she doesn't know if Amane likes her. So, let's imagine that in Tsukasa's mind it would be easier to influence Amane if he fell in love with her.

He knows what Amane does for someone he loves, so it would be easier to manipulate him that way.

But why is Tsukasa doing this?

Your objective is to take out all the Yorishiros, Nene is the person who can take them out, but she wouldn't do that for no reason (because she doesn't know anything about the supernatural world or even about how important her ability is) so to for her to be able to take away the yorishiros, she would have to have a reason, she would have to have "something in return" and what does Yashiro want?

A boyfriend.

And she told Tsukasa that she liked Amane. Did you manage to see it now? It's an exchange, I give you something and so do you.

I don't know if Tsukasa knows that Amane has a crush on Nene, but I don't doubt that he does. So, it brings the two together and they create a bond. Yashiro does things for Hanako without knowing what he is doing, she thinks it is right because she has come to trust Hanako.

He saved her life and that of her friends, then simply assumed that Hanako was a good ghost, just like Kou. So they started removing these seals.

And Tsukasa was there watching everything. The black crane was always with Nene. He stayed close by to see if everything was going to happen the way he wanted.

He was there when they went to remove Yako's seal, he was there when Hanako kisses Yashiro on the cheek, he was there when Sakura influenced Yashiro to find the Tsuchigomori library, so when does Tsukasa decide to reveal herself?

When Nene tells Hanako that she likes him.

And that even if he is complicated, she would be by his side. Then, just as Hanako was about to say something in response, Tsukasa appears to them.

Then we met Tsukasa for the first time.

Tsukasa overreacts when Nene says that Sakura was Amane's girlfriend, and after Sakura denies any involvement with him, Tsukasa asks Nene if she has ever kissed Amane and then if they are dating.

When Yashiro denies it, he abruptly approaches her.

"Really?"

His reaction caught my attention the first time I saw it. Nene is scared by the sudden approach but I have doubts about him.

He gets very close to her face, so I started to get suspicious from that moment on.

What did that mean?

Tsukasa continues to follow everything Yashiro and Hanako do. So when Amane and Nene share their first kiss, Tsukasa appears shortly after. He butts into the conversation because he was listening.

Did you stop to think about it?

Then Tsukasa waited for Amane to kiss her. Afterwards he showed up so she could take the number 6 seal off, and Tsukasa tells Sakura that Amane was sulking, but he's going to do his job.

Then Sakura tells Yashiro that she won't die if the seals aren't removed (she spoke hidden from Tsukasa, but at the same time she said that she will make Yashiro remove the seals even if against her will, contradictory, isn't it?)

Yashiro and Hanako now have no interest in removing the seals, especially the number 1 one, which can help Yashiro's life. What does Tsukasa do when Amane decides not to do what he wants?

Oh, you thought of that, didn't you? Of course, what would force Amane to do what he wants? Tsukasa doesn't mince words, he kissed the girl Amane likes and kidnapped her. Will he obey me now?

If Nene wants to die to be with Amane, but Amane doesn't want her to die, then, because she is so easily influenced, she follows what Hanako says (and because she doesn't actually want to die, but didn't want Aoi to go in her place )

But if that was the only option Hanako had, and he told Nene she would die, she would. Tsukasa controls Amane and Amane uses his influence on Nene, who obeys him.

This is a possibility. Tsukasa knows that Amane is possessive and jealous, his reaction after seeing his younger brother kissing the girl he likes makes it very clear.

So, the first hypothesis is that Tsukasa used Yashiro as an object to do what he wants and when he wants, in addition to using her to manipulate Hanako.

Hanako has things to do before being "saved" he said God would forgive his sins if he did something we don't know yet. He also tells Teru that he has things to do here and if he exorcises himself he would free himself. In other words, he is being forced to do something for his own salvation.

Sealed Tsukasa is his yorishiro, he exists to remind his owners of their duty, as Sakura said. Tsukasa appeared shortly after Nene created a bond with Hanako, he came back (because he said it had been between 10 and 20 years since he had seen him) he came back to remind Hanako of his duty.

Hanako seems to be on Tsukasa's side, despite not agreeing with his brother's methods, he doesn't really stop him. Tsukasa is responsible for all this mess at school but Hanako doesn't do anything too drastic to make Tsukasa stop. And what did Tsukasa say to Amane when he sends Yashiro to the border of number 6?

"he was sulky, but he will do his job"

Which job? And he doesn't show up at the boundary of number 6, he sends one of the joudais to get Nene, so he was actually doing something at Tsukasa's behest.

So, the first possibility is this. Nene is an instrument that Tsukasa is using to take out the yorishiros and perhaps for some other reason besides these (there are several hypotheses).

The second possibility is about Tsukasa being interested in Nene.

It's a nebulous possibility because Tsukasa has shown few signs of interest in her.

You ask me, few? is there any sign?

Yes, Tsukasa has shown signs that he might be interested in Nene romantically. You know, Tsukasa has this thing, it's extremely difficult to read Tsukasa sealed because he doesn't show much, but we have other possibilities.

I don't know if you noticed, but when the characters seem to be enchanted, amazed or enjoying something in particular, these "little stars" appear around them.

(If I were to show you all the times these stars appeared here it would take the whole day XD)

So when Nene meets little Tsukasa for the first time, she does this

And he reacts like this

The stars are here. Tsukasa asks Kou if he kissed Nene, and when he denies it Tsukasa seems to be…relieved?

Then he asks Nene if she likes him, then about Amane.

Sealed Tsukasa abruptly approaches Nene when she denies that he is dating or that he kissed Hanako.

The way he approaches her when he reappears at the school festival.

Then the kiss

And his reaction to him.

These are small signs, but you can't ignore them. I still don't consider it to be the same love that Hanako feels, Tsukasa acts on impulse very often and has a very childish mentality at certain times. So it's difficult to consider anything certain from him.

Knowing Tsukasa's nature, he could have kissed whoever he wanted, like Sakura for example, he even asks her if she wants to kiss him at the tea party, she refuses and he leaves it alone. But, he orders her and she has to obey, as Sakura already said. Tsukasa never ordered her to do this. He wouldn't even need to, he does what he wants, he already lifted her dress, would a kiss be something big compared to that?

He simply chose Nene to kiss (without her consent) something he could have done with anyone else.

So you tell me, "but he's already done bad things to her" and I tell you, he also did it to Mitsuba. He did it with Hanako, the person he loves most. Why wouldn't he do it with Nene?

Tsukasa is a confused boy, we don't know how he shows love, and what it means to him. Amane says Tsukasa hates movies because he gets too restless, so when he asks Tsukasa, he says he loves movies.

You see? Tsukasa is very contradictory, his way of showing that he likes something or someone is different from ordinary people, so how do you think Tsukasa would show love if he was in love?

As for Amane, the most mysterious among the three, he definitely loves them both, but he doesn't have the courage to tell any of them.

Hanako is a good actor, he manages to be what he needs, so although it is easier to read his feelings it seems that there is a nebulous cloud above him that hides some important details.

He loves Yashiro, but he tries to hide it with all his might. There are several motivations for this, I even assume that he is quite altruistic at this point. Hiding that he likes her so that she doesn't get too attached, because he's not an ordinary boy and he can't offer her what she wants, but in the end he can't hold back any longer.

He gives in to this feeling, even though at first it was all just a joke between them. Hanako knew that Yashiro was going to die and was probably going to use her for some purpose. Her time is short, so I will offer her the best I can. Then when the time is right she will fulfill her destiny.

So, I just used her to take out the yorishiros, she has fun, I have fun and in the end she will die and it's okay because I don't care who dies.

But he fell in love, plans changed.

From the moment Hanako decided that he was going to save Yashiro, Tsukasa began to interfere more and more. Because Amane is not doing his duty.

And what does Amane still feel for Tsukasa? It's still love, but guilt and shame wrap it in a tight embrace. Is Hanako's fear of Tsukasa or of what he did to his younger brother?

Hanako also has goals to fulfill, I even have some theories about what they are, but I prefer to leave that for another post, this one is already long enough.

Hanako and Tsukasa seem to have common goals, they work in secret, Yashiro is an important part of the story. So she fell into the house of wolves and doesn't know how to get out.

What if at the end of the story Hanako has to choose which of the two he has to save? Who would he save? The little brother he loves and sacrificed his life for his, or the girl he loves?

The possibility of going back in time gives Hanako another chance to save Tsukasa, although time only goes back inside the school, I imagine that the red house and the school are linked, after all the twins died in the house, but Hanako is trapped in the school . Although he may have been later linked to the school. In any case, the two places have a direct connection to each other.

When all the yorishiros are removed, Tsukasa will disappear after having his seal removed, so Amane will say goodbye to him, at the same time he will lose Yashiro, who will die after all the yorishiros are removed, he will lose both of them.

Maybe Tsukasa wants Amane to hate him (more than he realizes Amane feels for him) so that Amane can destroy him more easily, and who knows, maybe he wants Amane to feel anger towards Yashiro right now so that he will allow her die. So how would he piss him off? Making your brother jealous? It's a possibility.

In the end, maybe Hanako will reveal this wild and irrational side of him to us and end everything.

Perhaps, when all the seals break, including Hanako's, Amane will transform into something very powerful and uncontrollable that will destroy everything. So the only person who can make him return to "normal" would be Yashiro, (who has the ability to purify) who would die in the process, so by removing the seals, Hanako would gain a wish, what would he ask for? And for whom?

We still have the clock's arc, and the Tsuchigomori's ability, there are still alternative ways to change the past or the future before reaching this tragic ending.

There is also the possibility of a love triangle, I don't know if it would happen, we need to know more about how Tsukasa feels before considering that for sure.

There's no telling what will happen between the three, but I'm curious to find out.

This post was longer than I imagined XD sorry about that.

This is all my interpretation, there is a strong possibility that I am wrong, but it was fun talking about it hahaha, I hope you enjoyed it :3