#shinomiya san

[the6pathsofpain]

Waifu war

Who ya got

[blueesnow]

(6/6) Shinomiya Natsuki's Private Story [Utapri Live Emotion]

Ch 1: (unlocked if you reached intimacy lvl 6 with Natsuki)

-Shining Agency's Hallway- Haruka: Shinomiya-san, hello. Are you having a meeting right now? Natsuki: Nanami-san! Nope, I'm here to pick up the materials for my next job and then I'm done for today. Natsuki: That's right! If you don't mind, would you be willing to have a tea with me right now? (choices) <It'd be my pleasure!> Haruka: That'd be wonderful. I'm also on my day off right now, so let's have some tea together! Natsuki: Thank you! I recently found a good tea leaves right now. Natsuki: So I hope you'll enjoy it. Let's have a nice chat while we enjoy the aroma of the tea! <Is it okay even though it's your day off?> Haruka: Thank you for the invitation. I was also on my way back to the dorm. Although is it okay even thought it's on your important day off…? Natsuki: That's even more the reason why I want to spend time with you. Natsuki: All of the plushies in my room were asking you to play with them. (back to story) Haruka: Um…by having a tea, don't tell me we're doing it at Shinomiya-san's room? Natsuki: Yup, I'll welcome you from the bottom of my heart~! Now, let's go! -Shining Agency Dorm Natsuki's Room- Natsuki: Sorry to have kept you waiting for so long. This is a black tea called "autumnal". Natsuki: This darjeeling was picked on the fall and packed with lots of sweetness. I think this one suits you perfectly today! Haruka: It smells really nice… Thank you, well then without further ado. Haruka: Mm…that was delicious! It has a soft and mellow taste and it definitely warms my heart. Natsuki: I'm glad you took a liking to it. Actually this tea leaves has been my favorite recently. Natsuki: Right now I've been trying so many different sweets to find one that matched perfectly with this flavor. Now then what shall we have for today… Haruka: (Sweets…Oh, now that you mention it…!)

Ch 2: (unlocked if you reached intimacy lvl 11 with Natsuki)

-Shining Agency Dorm Natsuki's Room- Haruka: Sorry to keep you waiting. Here are the cookies! Someone gave me these as a gift before and it seems like it's from this recently popular store right now. Natsuki: Wow, thank you very much! Now then, time to place them on this cute wooden plate… Natsuki: Fufu. It turned out to be an even more wonderful tea party. Shall we eat now? Haruka: Yes, let's eat it together. Time to dig in. Natsuki: Thank you for the food~ noms ….Mm! It has a rich buttery flavor and is very delicious! Haruka: It perfectly matched with the black tea, right. There are also also other variations too, such as green tea flavored cookies and an animal-shaped cookies. Natsuki: Really!? I wonder what kind of animals they have… Let's take a look at the leaflet that came in the can. Natsuki: Oh… there's also a sheep too! Its fluffy shape looks the same as the ones from my parent's farm. Natsuki: It looks so cute that it might be a waste to eat them. And then this bear… Natsuki: Look, it's really similar to this teddy bear, right? Haruka: Fufu, Shinomiya-san's room has a lot of stuffed animals. Natsuki: Everyone here are all of my precious friends. They're all my conversation partner, and my hugging partner. Natsuki: This fluffy rabbit is the new one I recently took in. Natsuki: When I went to the store back then, its eyes are telling me "please take me back home~" so… Natsuki: Oh, it looks like it came from my phone. I wonder who…?

Ch 3: (unlocked if you reached intimacy lvl 21 with Natsuki)

-Shining Agency Dorm Natsuki's Room- Natsuki: Yes, this is Shinomiya. …Right now? Haruka: (Seems like it's a work call. Is it a sudden work…?) Natsuki: Yes…I understand. I'll be there soon. Natsuki: I'm so sorry… I have to head over to the agency right now. Natsuki: It seems like they want to talk to me about the CM audition that I took the other day. Haruka: Is that so. Since it's about work, you don't have to worry about it. Natsuki: Thank you so much, Nanami-san. You are indeed kind. Natsuki: But we were having so much fun together just now, somehow I feel a bit lonely. Haruka: Well then… why don't we go have tea together next time? I also want to talk more with Shinomiya-san too. Natsuki: Nanami-san…thank you very much. I also had the same thought. Natsuki: I'm going to prepare a different tea leaves for next time. There are still many and many more recommendations for you. Natsuki: I also have to prepare sweets too. Shall we go with the animal cookies from before. Natsuki: Just thinking about it gets me so excited. Next time it's my turn to treat you. Haruka: I'm happy to hear that…! I look forward to it. Natsuki: Well then, let's make a pinky promise. It's definitely, absolutely a promise okay!

Ch 4: (unlocked if you reached intimacy lvl 31 with Natsuki)

-Recording studio- Natsuki: Nanami-san. Today is finally the day where we'll be recording the CM song. My viola is all ready to go! Haruka: I'm truly honored to have the opportunity to create a song for the CM in which Shinomiya-san appears. Natsuki: Truth to be told, the phone call that I had when we were having a teatime before was actually about this job. Haruka: Eh…really? Natsuki: That's right. It seems that they asked you to write a song for it right after it was decided that I would be the one who'll appear in the CM. Natsuki: Talk about a perfect coincidence, doesn't it! It made my heart skip a beat. Haruka: Fufu, you're right. Did you take a liking to the song…? Natsuki: Why of course! The melody is as soft and sweet like your heart, it engulfs me in tenderness. Natsuki: And more importantly… I'm so happy that you added a touch of viola in this song. Haruka: I actually wrote that viola part while thinking that I'd love to have Shinomiya-san to play it in mind. Natsuki: My Viola and I are very fortunate to have you think of us that way. Staff: Shinomiya-san, we're going to start with the rehearsal, so could you please come over here. Natsuki: I got it, I'll be there soon. Natsuki: I'll be playing this with all of my heart so that I can make your song become even more dazzling than this. Natsuki: I hope that you could keep your eyes on me. Now then, let's go and play this with all of my might~!

Ch 5: (unlocked if you reached intimacy lvl 41 with Natsuki)

-Recording studio- Staff: Now then, we're going to start the recording. In 3, 2,… Natsuki: … Haruka: (Wow…what a delicate tone…) Natsuki: …Hmm. Excuse me, but can we start over on this part one more time? Natsuki: I want to try to make it sound a little more lingering near the end. Yes, thank you for your cooperation. … Haruka: (It's as if Shinomiya-san and the viola are singing together in unison) Haruka: (It sounds so mature…and elegant. I want to listen to this forever…) - Natsuki: Thank you very much for today! I'll be in your care for the next filming for the CM too. Natsuki: Nanami-san. How's my viola? Haruka: (I have a lot that I wanted to say, but how should I say it…?) (choices) <It made my heart beats!> Haruka: I was drawn in from the moment you started the performance…it made my heart beat so fast! Natsuki: Wow, somehow I feel a bit embarrassed to hear you praise me like that. Natsuki: I'd be happy if my performance could actually capture your heart. <I was so touched…> Haruka: I was so touched… Only Shinomiya-san that can create that beautiful sound. Natsuki: …It looks like I was able to deliver my music right deep into your heart. Natsuki: Thank you so much. I'm really glad that I was able to perform right in front of you. (back to story) Natsuki: Truth to be told, I was actually a bit nervous before the performance. I wonder if I could actually play it or not. Natsuki: It's your beloved music after all. That's why, I'm really happy to hear your words just now.

Ch 6: (unlocked if you reached intimacy lvl 51 with Natsuki)

-Recording studio- Natsuki: Before I started aiming to become an idol… I actually used to be a classical musician. Natsuki: I've been to a lot of musical performances and competitions. Though I can't even remember just how many that was. Natsuki: I actually used to play a violin before viola. I've been studying it since I was thi~s little y'know? Natsuki: Although I don't remember much about it, but it looks like I actually met Syo-chan on a violin competition. Natsuki: And to think that I'm working as an idol now in the same group with that same Syo-chan, somehow it kinda feels like fate don't you think? Haruka: (Looks like Shinomiya-san really like Syo-kun) Natsuki: Just as I was obsessed with classical music back then, right now I've totally got my heart stolen with singing. Natsuki: It's really fun to play a music while using your own voice as an instrument. Natsuki: Being an idol, I love each and everyday that I get to shine together with Syo-chan and everyone in ST☆RISH. Natsuki: And besides, since I started becoming an idol… Nanami-san, I was also able to interact with your song. Haruka: Shinomiya-san… Natsuki: With the songs that you wrote and the songs that I'll be singing it, let's hope that we could make a lo~t of everyone smile with it! Haruka: Yes…! Natsuki: First, let's make this CM song beautiful and deliver it to everyone. Natsuki: I'll be working very hard on the filming after this. Once it's done, I want to go and celebrate it together with you.

[1andean]

Love is War

English

Hey! Like I said, I've many drawings (some of them older than others) that i wanted to publish for Valentine Day's, but since I couldn't do it I will upload it these days!

So let's start with this lovely couple!

¡Kaguya y Shirogane! Who will win?

Character of “Kaguya-sama: Love Is War”

Credit to "Aka Akasaka”

Please, don't repost the drawing without permission

(PS: Sorry for the English)

——————————————

Español

Buenas! Como mencione, tengo varios dibujos (algunos más antiguos que otros) que quería subir por San Valentin, pero ya que no pude los iré subiendo estos días!

Así que empezamos con a está amorosa pareja!

¡Kaguya y Shirogane! Quien ganara?

Personajes de “Kaguya-sama: Love Is War”

Crédito a "Aka Akasaka”

Por favor, no vuelva a publicar este dibujo sin permiso.

[justalice-mai]

OMFG MY MAIN TWO CHARACTER KINS TOGETHER SJDHHD <3

Kaguya and Mai outfit swap commission for nonbrandedsocks

[songsofadelaide]

"Hey, Platoon Leader, are you guys trying to be the next Shinomiyas?"

You looked up from your plate of food and gave Kafka an incredulous look from across your shared table. "...What?"

The older officer raised his hands in defence when he caught the strange look on your face. "O-Oh, you know! The Director General and his wife, the former Captain of the Second Division. They were a power couple. I just thought you guys were similar is all..."

"Kafka-san, you better clarify whatever it is you're saying," you chuckled at his statement. "Though I definitely do not mind being compared to the Second Division Captain Shinomiya Hikari, the gods rest her soul. She was brilliant, after all! A shining example to so many young women, myself included. We could have stood to learn a thing or two from her..."

It was a tragedy, you thought. The Director General had always been a serious man, but the unexpected death of his wife made him all the more. And now that Kafka mentioned it, the weight of the idea rested even heavier on your mind. The higher you two rise in the ranks, the more will be expected of you. The more numbered Kaiju appear, the more you will have to set out in their field.

The higher the danger risk, the more skilled personnel will have to be deployed. And seeing how the top brass acknowledged your fiancé's most recent accomplishment— subduing and neutralising Kaiju No. 10— the likelihood of him being assigned even more dangerous missions will only increase—

"You think the Vice Captain would consider growing out a beard too when he becomes Director General? Like Director General Shinomiya. I mean you did mention once that his old man was grizzled and all..." Kafka asked aloud as he helped himself to his lunch.

???

His question was so left-field that you couldn't help the laughter that escaped your stomach. "Pfft— What?! Kafka-san, wh— Hahaha!"

"I-I'm serious, though, Platoon Leader?! A beard would make him even more menacing!"

"Haha! N-No, okay, okay! I'm sorry! I'm sorry for bursting out laughing like that! I-It's just— Soshiro grows stubbles at an alarming rate and he always shaves because he hates being told he'd look like his father with a beard," you said, nearly breathless and tears prickling your eyes. You continued to speak as you calmed down, the seriousness of your expression prompting your lunchmate to pause his meal. "I might not be able to achieve Captain Shinomiya's legendary level of coolness or renown, but I think as long as I continue accomplishing orders, that's good enough for me."

Arriving at your table not long after your fit of laughter were the Vice Captain and another recruit— one who happened to hear your conversation right from the start.

"I—" Kikoru started, her plate slightly trembling in her hands as you met her earnest gaze. "I think you're just as cool as Captain Shinomiya, Platoon Leader! More importantly, I'd like f-for you and Vice Captain Hoshina to always be safe while in the battlefield so you can both live long and fulfilling lives! Th..."

The kind her mother never got to live.

Soshiro took his place next to you as Kafka gestured for them to sit at your shared table.

"Thank you, Kikoru-chan. I am honoured you think so highly of me. If there's anyone feels the loss our amazing Captain Shinomiya the most, that would be you," you said as you reached for the younger girl's shaking fist from across the table, giving her a gentle yet reassuring squeeze. "If Soshiro and I ever do become the Defense Force's next power couple, I can only hope we have a child as talented and dedicated as you are."

"That's assumin' we're actually still a couple," Soshiro quipped. "I could hear you laughin' at Kafka's joke from across the building. Whatever did he tell you that was so funny, sweetness?"

"Kafka-san here was just saying how cool you would look grizzled with a beard all over your handsome, handsome mug," you shot back at him as you gently gripped his chin to force him to face you. "But don't worry, sweetness, I like you just the way you are now."

Kikoru's hands flew to her mouth as her face suddenly flushed. H-How lovey-dovey of them!

"You're already plenty menacing with that sly look of yours," you continued, before slapping the table so hard that it surprised both Kafka and Kikoru, who were staring in awe at just how affectionate their superiors were being. "Now eat, eat, eat up, our little fledgelings! Eating right, getting enough sleep, and exercising are key to living long! Let's not miss out on even one of those!"

Soshiro smiled as you ate your fill along with your favourite new recruits, though he'd never hear you say that out loud. Being a power couple never appealed to him because all that mattered to him were saving lives and staying alive— to be able to live in the future you were all so earnestly fighting for.

I suppose having someone to proudly stand next to isn't such a bad idea.

[matramancer]

If I Were Stronger. [Narumi Gen x Mitsuri! Reader]🌸

🌸Synopsis: What if Mitsuri! reader was there during the fight with Isao Shinomiya?

Part of the Mitsuri! reader series

tags: angst with comfort, MANGA SPOILERS (ch 51), character death, narumi x reader, fem!reader, Mitsuri!reader, reader and Narumi are kikoru’s mentors, kikoru and reader are close, hopeful ending.

It’s quiet in the First Division base.

On a solemn morning, the flags of the base are lowered. Everyone stands in formation, giving a final salute to the loss of a legend.

Standing up front, Narumi Gen holds himself strong in front of his troops, his back so far away. Despite the respect he earned, the high praises,  the honor of dying in the battlefield, no one can deny that the death of General Shinomiya was a tragedy.

A few steps behind him were the other platoon leaders, and for a moment, time had stopped. No rowdy battle cries, no arguments. Not even the bounce from their resident bright ball of sunshine.

it’s quiet. It’s unlike you.

As your eyes drift to Gen’s backside, the black fabric feels like an abyss peering into your memories. The scar from that day that you shared with him. Fresh wounds that you tried not to show. 

You were there when it happened, after all.

“GENERAL SHINOMIYA IS ENGAGING WITH KAIJU NO. 9! ALL UNITS, STAY ON HIGH ALERT!”

As you stopped to turn to your right, you could hear the clash of weapons, as well as the sound of falling debris and rubble. Was that them?

“Platoon leader (L/N) speaking. I’m near the main site and approaching!”

It was a race against time, one where you prayed that you could make it. Narumi and Kaiju No. 8 were speeding ahead too, surely, with the four of you against #9, you could stop him.

You didn’t even register the long run it took from your area to where General Shinomiya was. Not even the pain from the multiple wounds you sported. All you remembered was rubble flying everywhere, and racing to Kurusu’s front as soon as you spotted him.

“Kurusu-san!” Kurusu coughs from breathing out the dust from the rubble you sliced into pieces. 

“Platoon leader (L/N!)” He exclaims in disbelief, still holding onto his laptop whilst you provide cover. As you tried to study the situation, more and more rubble threatened to hit Kurusu. The general was standing strong, his number’s weapon holding against #9. “Please don’t worry about me–provide cover to the chief!” Kurusu stated, before getting interrupted by Isao himself.

“(L/N)!!” Stunned at General Shinomiya’s booming voice, you and Kurusu turn towards him. “Evacuate Kurusu!”

“BUT SIR–”

“AT ONCE!” at General Shinomiya’s orders, you immediately change your stance, picking Kurusu up.

“YES SIR!” Without a moment’s hesitation, you hastily jump away with Kurusu, not knowing what the general had in plan. You hoped he had a plan at all. You could still move, you were strong. You had to do something.

Kurusu’s words brought your attention back to him. “High energy levels–is he planning to use No. 2’s blast?!” Gasping as you let him down at a clearing, the two of you immediately fell to your knees at the sheer amount of pressure suddenly forming from the spot where Isao stood. So that was why…

You nearly flinch at the gunshot from the ceremony, the sound bringing you back to the present. Narumi’s back was still in front of you, only showing a part of his side profile.

It must’ve been so heavy on him. You knew, even from how stoic he was with everyone, that Narumi meant a lot to him. That General Shinomiya also meant so much to Narumi. That their bond, though unspoken, was strong. 

And now he’s gone. He was taken from him right in front of his eyes.

But it wasn’t just Narumi that had a mentor taken away from him.

The ceremony ends, and you excuse yourself as soon as you find the chance. 

A girl lost her father.

“GENERAL SHINOMIYA!”

Your mind drifts back to the battlefield, towards the seconds where you returned to General Shinomiya.

It’s eerily silent. You hated it.

“General Shinomiya! Do you copy?!” You breathed through your mask, twirling your sword through the air to get rid of the dust obstructing your vision. 

The news from Kurusu shocked you to the bone. Two shots. Kaiju No. 2’s main burst twice in a row. General Shinomiya…

Your heart rate quickens. You had to support him fast. There’s no way his body could last. Please, please don’t let this happen again. The Defense Force can’t lose another leader. Especially not its director.

Memories of your late platoon leader flash through your mind, but you blink them away. Now’s not the time.

In the distance, you could see Narumi and #8, finally arriving on the scene. With your combined manpower, you could at least make sure that the general had time to recover.

Your feet ached as you caught your breath once more, now back in the building. You don’t know why or how your body took you here, but there you stood, hands on the lavish wooden doors, hearing the silent sobs of Kikoru Shinomiya.

Heart clenching, your knuckles turned white as you tried to calm your breathing, feeling your throat clamp up. You felt anger, felt grief. But that’s not what matters right now. You had to be there for her.

“Kikoru-chan,” at the sound of your voice and the creak of the door opening, her sniffles paused. You set aside any formalities, nevertheless how the both of you were technically trespassing. You were probably going to get an earful from your superiors too, with a member of your platoon skipping such an important event, indulging AND partaking in breaching what counted as private quarters. But that didn’t matter. Kikoru wasn’t your star student right now, she was just a girl.

You made your way closer to her, letting your stern demeanor falter as you stood in front of her.

“It’s okay, I won’t tell anyone. It’s okay to cry, Kikoru-chan.” You hushed her, slowly bringing your hands towards her.

When she started to sob again, you took her in your arms, sinking onto the floor as her body shook. 

You hated the quiet. You hated this.

You hated how #9 disgraced Shinomiya Isao’s image in front of his own daughter.

The door creaks open again. This time, a heavier set of footsteps made their way to the late general’s desk. You didn’t have to look up to know who it was.

Perhaps Narumi and you were on much more similar wavelengths than you thought, because he at least disregarded how lax your behavior was as a platoon leader. 

“You sure you didn’t want to see him off?”

The three of you shared a strange yet not unwelcome sense of acknowledgement and understanding in that room.

A shared wound that could only be understood by those who were truly there.

The horror you felt when #8 screamed the news to Narumi rang through your body like a bomb.

As you approached rapidly to the sight of what you thought was the general, you saw him turn around.

“GENERAL SHINOMIYA!” You cried out, mustering all of the power in your legs to reach him. 

It wasn’t enough.

“THAT ISN’T THE CHIEF!”

You failed your role. Failed to be that barrier between what you sought to protect. 

Kurusu and the others watch in horror through the feeds as the desecrated face of what used to be Isao turned, as if to mock him.

It was horrifying.

Letting out a gasp, you barely registered the giant blast he sent towards the three of you.

As the rubble cleared, you stood aside Captain Narumi and Kaiju no. 8, still in disbelief.

Hearing him speak about how he killed the general made your blood boil, your knuckles turning white.

But it broke your heart to see Kikoru just behind him after.

Clenching your fist, you and Narumi sprang forward in full offense.

“How dare you.” You swore, in a silent whisper that had never left your body before. As you twisted your body and launched yourself upward, you put your full force into slicing several of #9’s limbs, giving Narumi an opening.

But just as Narumi swore with his entire being that he would destroy #9 in Shinomiya’s place, #9 stopped the fight, throwing a casual remark about how he was going to “call it a day.”

Narumi has never lost his composure, and he doesn’t plan to. But he would not stand for such blasphemy–nor would he ever let #9 get away from him alive.

As he launched his attack, you followed suite with #8 into the fray, bearing your sword like a whip. 

“LETS RAIN HELL ON HIM! #8! (L/N)!”

“SQUADRON STYLE BAYONET TECHNIQUE NUMBER ONE!”

“SECOND FORM: LOVE PANGS!”

 Yet no matter how many hits you got in, no matter how many times Narumi charges at him, no matter how strong #8’s hits was, the three of you were still being pushed back.

You prayed again, prayed that through some high power, no matter what it takes, that you’d be able to end this right now.

“!!!” Your eyes widened as a shot from #9 misses you and hurdles itself towards Kikoru instead.

Without thinking, you immediately move to defend her, taking the brunt force of the hit with your machine gun. “NO!” You yelled. You can’t afford to lose her either. 

Kikoru stares at you with wide eyes, as you steady your balance and change stances to use your other weapon.

Breathing heavily, you let out a cry as you shot at #9 relentlessly, acting as suppressing fire for Narumi and #8.  

It was always in your nature to protect. And you couldn’t afford to fail with Kikoru as you did her father.

Her suit had probably overheated, she was out of commission. The least you could do was–

You let out a string of coughs, a metallic taste in your lips.

Suit overheat. Suit overheat. Cooldown required.

“(L/N)-SAN!” Kikoru screamed, distressed at the data reading of your suit. She cursed over how she was frozen to her spot.

“I still have some fight left in me!” You put your arm in front of her. Kikoru was a bright girl, with a bright future ahead of her. The more you could spare her now, the better.

You were about to put away your gun to slow down your overheating, but just as you did, the sight of one of #9’s attacks slipping between Narumi and #8’s defenses entered both you and Kikoru’s field of vision.

Your eyes widened, feeling the burn of your body as you forced yourself to move.

“KAFKA!” You yelled, taking the hit for him.

You knew Kaiju no. 8–No, Kafka was special, not just to the Defense Force, but to those that cared for him. He was loved. By Kikoru, by the 3rd Division. You had the utmost pleasure of bonding with him from the start of his stay in the 1st Division. You were one of the first to accept him.

And you couldn’t bear to see Kikoru hurt even more.

Narumi’s eyes widened as red splotched your suit, your machine gun wrecked by #9’s burst.

He knew that with your caring personality, you’d always take the choice to wedge yourself to be that layer of protection. He hated that about you sometimes, but especially this time.

But there was no time to worry, you wouldn’t allow it. “RESUME ATTACK, CAPTAIN AND NO. 8!” You choked out, barely nailing your landing. The attack burned through your machine gun and messed you up good. 

As you scramble to get on your feet, your legs caved in, making you unceremoniously thud to the ground. Now you’ve really done it. “I messed up…”

Narumi swears he saw red. He’d never say it out loud, but the grip he had on his bayonet was so hard, he swung, uncaring if his nerves could snap in half.

You could hear the sound of fighting continue just a dozen meters ahead of you, but your vision was going black. You felt something warm running down your forehead and covering your eye. Your ears were ringing.

As strong as The Love Pillar is known to be, she was still a human.

You could barely even hear from your comms now. Was that still Kurusu talking? “REROUTING (L/N)’S SUIT TO FULL HEALING! PREPARE PARAMEDICS!”

No, you can still fight. For your place in the Defense Force. For your oath to protect, for the 1st division that welcomed you so warmly. For Captain Narumi. For Mr. Shinomiya.

And humans always had an exploitable weakness. 

Suddenly, the air stiffens just as your hearing returns to hear Kaiju no. 9. “Ah, I should have done this from the beginning.” 

“What…” You and Kikoru’s eyes widened at the sudden incoming blasts moving towards the both of you.

You stiffen up as your instincts tell you to fight back. To draw your machine gun or to jump out of the way. To protect Kikoru. 

…But you couldn’t feel your legs.

“BASTARD!” in a haze, you only hear Narumi’s yell from a distance, still trying frozen in place.

The last thing you saw was his back in a protective stance, shielding you from the blast.

And the body of Isao Shinomiya flying to the sky, waging war to all of humanity.

It hurts to think, it hurts to remember. It hurts to see the people you care about skewered by guilt and sadness.

It hurt you the most when Narumi sat on the stretcher next to you, hunched over whilst gripping his head in his hands when he thought no one was looking.

You were unknowingly clenching onto the fabric of Kikoru’s uniform too, you realize, as you hear her talk to Narumi. How she wouldn’t even let herself grief.

At the sound of that, Narumi declares something.

“I’ll make you the strongest after me.” You and Kikoru look up in surprise. “I’ll drill what mr. Isao drilled into me to you.” 

As Kikoru’s tears ran, so did her newfound determination. The fight isn’t over. It’s just begun. She swears to it, as you and Narumi bear witness.

“(L/N).” He turns to you, causing your body to stiffen. “I’m entrusting this duty to you. Direct orders,” you straighten, getting back on your feet.

You’ve never seen Narumi like this before.

“Sir.” you fix your appearance, trying your best to look stern. You were never really good at it.

“Get stronger.” You bit the inside of your cheek at his words. It wasn’t just an order, it was a statement. “Train Shinomiya. Be at each other’s side,”

“Show me results.”

***

It’s very awkward to have to take an elevator ride with Captain Narumi after that whole ordeal.

You didn’t even know where to look. For once, no conversations flowed through your mind.

“This is bad!!! This is very bad!!!” You internally panicked. Never mind the constant headaches and large amount of medical treatment you still needed to undergo, you were fretting over what he would say to you as a platoon leader trespassing and enabling a rule breaking cadet! “I can’t look him in the eye!”

“Um…” You broke the silence, yet Narumi made no effort to look in your direction. “Captain.”

You bit your lip. What were you to even say? Yes, you and Narumi were close, but this atmosphere… the weight of the world was on him. Could you even be there for him?

But you remember how hard this was for him. How much of a front he’s handling right now. So, you merely soften your voice, to sound as respectful as possible. Then, you bow. “I’m terribly sorry for your loss, sir.”

Narumi still doesn’t move. Not like there’s anywhere to go.

You wonder if you’ve overstepped any boundaries. He was still your captain, even if you sort of had a strange bond with him. Maybe not as strange as what he has with Vice Captain Hoshina, but still. He was a friend.

“Thank you, (L/n).” Your shoulders immediately relaxed, letting out a breath you didn’t know you were holding.

“I’ll follow your orders to the end. I’ll get stronger, Narumi-kun–” you hold your tongue. “Ahem, Captain Narumi.”

Finally, he turns to look at you. Maybe if your head wasn’t still pounding and you weren’t so fussy over how the bandages felt wrapped around your head, you’d notice how his gaze softened. “You’re still recovering from your injuries. You’re forbidden to go to the training hall.”

“Eh?” You blinked. “Ah, ok. Yes sir.” You twiddled with your fingers, now embarrassed. Right, you weren’t even supposed to be out and about yet.

As your gaze landed on the floor, you failed to notice Narumi’s sight falling onto your figure, furrowing his expression at your slightly limped stature. You had sustained much more severe wounds than him, even if you were still standing. 

But that was just it, you were still standing, and he was god damn thankful for that.

It was a much better sight than seeing your unconscious, limp body in his hands before you were passed to a stretcher and flooded by paramedics, his sight refusing to leave you even as another pair of medics tried to assess his own condition. 

The heat he felt searing through you as he cradled your unconscious body burned through his own skin as a reminder that you were alive–but you were in bad, bad shape. You had paid the price of increasing your abilities past what your suit could handle, reaching a fever of nearly 40 degrees and immediately requiring an IV drip. he had to bark at Kikoru to keep her distance, under the guise that the paramedics weren’t done with you, that she needed medical attention herself, but he himself knew that wasn’t the full cause of his reasoning. He didn’t want her to see you like this.

You were so unlike yourself, motionless on that stretcher, lacking the life and luster that enveloped you.

It was terrifying.

When the paramedics left and he finally got a moment to himself, all he could do was hunch forward, hands grasping roughly at his scalp. The incident flowed through his mind like a waterfall, from the desecrated face of Isao Shinomiya, the war Kaiju no, 9 had waged against him and humanity, the pained face of his disciple, and lingering feel of your lifeless body cradled against him.

He would never let this happen again.

The elevator shakes a bit as Narumi straightens his gaze.

“And…” Your head perks up again, bright eyes meeting his fuchsia gaze. “Loosen up. I’ve had enough of formalities today.” 

He breathes out your name, in a fervor unheard of from the image of Japan’s strongest. A more boyish, young tone. “Show me results like you did when we first met, (Y/N).”

Your mouth gaped a bit, before the familiar smile you always sported, albeit softer, makes its way back to your face. “At least grieve properly, Gen. I know how much he means to you.”

Maybe it was how you operated, your clockwork, but Gen feels a realization with how a part of him had been laid out to you without him knowing, and with that part alone, you had studied and lived with so graciously, that the way you had softly soothed him with your presence had taken him off guard by how welcoming his subconscious was to it.

You were unlike anyone else he had ever met. No one had ever read him like this.

Even when he was silently processing your words, you simply watched him in understanding, your gaze never making him uncomfortable. He was just so accustomed to your presence.

Had you always been so close, he wonders, when he finally realizes that his fingers had grazed yours. 

Looking at each other in mutual shock, you were the one to recover first, to boldly squeeze his hand with an unspoken vow, to pull him into your presence. To let his grief flow.

It flashes through his mind then, his youth with Isao, all his efforts to earn his gaze, how he fought so hard for results. How he’d never see that damn old man reel back in tears over how much he’s achieved now.

It squeezes his heart.

But at last the memories flow.

And he lets the feel of your warmth meld with his skin, the calloused bumps and slight burn from your bandages rubbing against his own as he finally squeezes back, not even out of his own accord. His fingers moved on their own.

When the moment ends and your touch becomes that of a ghost, Narumi is taken aback by how his hands nearly chased after yours.

He wonders how you feel, but at the ding of the elevator floors, you had awkwardly flitted the topic of the conversation away again, leaving unanswered questions.

“I’ll still oversee Shinomiya’s training. It’s what she needs most.” You stare at the cold doors of the elevator, not really knowing why you’re still letting your mouth run. “I know we both believe in her. She has a bright future ahead.”

You feel Narumi’s gaze land fully on you now. “Exactly why I said what I said. Better not see you slack off and let her catch up to you as fast, (Y/N).”

His tone is lighter now, you note. Your heart fluttered a bit at the more casual honorific too. That relieved you, bringing your smile back. “I have no intention of losing, Gen.” 

The entire incident still felt heavy in both of your hearts, knowing what happened. But as long as you can be there for Narumi, you’ll support him in whatever way he needs.

The elevator dings as you both reach the ground floor. “One more thing.”

You turn to him, blinking. 

“Once you’re healed, report to my office.” He walks out first. “Mr. Isao probably wanted to see this for himself, but–”

“You’re eligible for a numbers suit.”

--

A/N: Whew that was a wild ride.... i might do numbers suit reader or meeting hoshina soon!

The thought of mitsuri! reader fighting on field and hanging on through sheer willpower alone is so admirable... wow, u have a really cool gf gen......... though u dont even have the guts to ask her out yet, wow

[szqnxi]

|| Unrequited

Reno Ichikawa x reader (angst)

It wasn't a secret to the whole force that you were Soshiro Hoshina's property, and his alone.

Reno wishes you weren't.

"You look troubled" Iharu said, setting his chopsticks down while looking at him. "Is something wrong?" he asked, getting the attention of the bickering Kafka and Shinomiya beside him.

Reno shook his head. "Everything is fine" he lied. "I was just thinking about what training I should do to increase my combat power" he said dismissibly not wanting to discuss what's going on in his mind. He was scared that he might accidentally say something he'd regret, especially since it involved you.

You were completely unaware of the feelings he had been suppressing about you. However, regardless of what he might say, he knew the outcome would remain the same. You saw him only as a friend, and that's all you would ever see him as.

He knew these feelings weren’t right, but damn, it was difficult to control himself. The way you looked, the tender smile you would give him whenever he did something good, the way you encouraged him with kind words before each mission, your loving personality - it was all too much for him to handle. He just couldn’t help how he felt about you.

He had been holding on to these feelings ever since he joined the defense force, but confessing to you is not an option. Not with you gushing about your silly little crush on the Vice Captain right in front of him. It was tormenting seeing the woman he desired secretly, wanting someone who is not him. And before he knew it, you had completely become captivated by Soshiro, and he's already too late.

Hoshina Soshiro, Vice Captain of the third division, and the defense force's strongest close-quarter combatant. Reno? Just another officer under his command.

He already knew the outcome. Yet, it hurts. He was not prepared to let you go. He felt like you should belong to him and only him. He should be the one you awaken to each morning, the one you confided in when you were troubled, the one who'd always be by your side. It was difficult for him to accept the fact that he would never be that person for you.

Perhaps given enough time, he could finally move on from these feelings. From his unreciprocated love for you. Perhaps.

"Earth to Reno" you tried to get his attention. He was so immersed in his thoughts that he hadn't noticed you had taken a seat at the table, right beside him, no less.

"Everything okay?" You asked, giving him a concerned look.

He quickly responded, repeating what he said to Iharu earlier "Everything is okay, y/n-san. I was just thinking about what training I should do to increase my combat power"

Reno flashed you a reassuring smile, desperately trying to hide his true thoughts. You laughed softly and playfully messed up his hair. "As usual, you’re so focused on getting stronger." You teased him. "You should try to rest once in a while, you know. It’s part of the process."

"I will, y/n-san" he responded, unable to resist the urge to lean closer to you, soaking in the warmth of your presence. He wished this moment would never end, as it was one of the few occasions where he could experience your gentle touch.

"Y/n, is that—" Kafka pointed at the hand you had resting on Reno’s head. "Oh, you mean this?" You let out a soft chuckle, and gleefully showed them the ring. The ring sat perfectly on your ring finger, it was a beautiful piece, adorned with numerous purple gemstones and intricate designs.

"Soshiro proposed last night. Pretty isn't it?" You said, a soft smile grazing your lips as you admire the ring on your finger.

"Oh my God! Really?! Tell me more" Kikoru squealed, asking you for more details about your engagement.

Reno's heart sank. He had always known this day would come, but he hadn't anticipated it would happen so quickly. Of course, he knew deep down that your relationship with Soshiro was serious, but all of the shred of hope he'd held onto, that maybe someday you and Soshiro would part ways, and he'd finally get his chance, that maybe you'll wake up and realize that it was him who you love all along and not Soshiro- it vanished in an instant. His hopes- shattered into millions of pieces.

"I’m happy for you, y/n" he muttered, the phrase felt bitter in his lips.

He was far from happy, but he couldn’t bring himself to ruin your happiness. But seeing you happy, even in the arms of another man, offered him a small comfort.

Deep down, he knew that his feelings for you were not something he could ever let go of.

They would remain with him until his very last breath.

A/N: Got inspired by @justwinginglife's Like Magic fic. Sorry not sorry for the angst.

Might start writing more of kn8 fics (might) anyway, my request box is open so feel free to drop some requests!! /⁠ᐠ⁠｡⁠ꞈ⁠｡⁠ᐟ⁠\

|| Masterlist

[ultrakart]

@sunfoxfic​

NO WAY. LOOK AT THIS.

references to Kaguya-sama: Love is War in KCC

[khunyuki]

"I've lived my life with blade and you always in my mind"

ꜱɪᴅᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ: 𝚍. 𝙸 𝚐𝚞𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝙸'𝚖 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚊 𝚏𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞, 𝚑𝚞𝚑?

Synopsis: Narumi Gen initially thought that Uzui Kagami was pathetic with her self-depreciating thoughts and how she let people run their mouths. He hates how he lets himself be dragged around by her cuz it's comfortable, especially that sweet smile that makes her look unbothered when it was, in fact, the opposite. He also hates how she's the fiancee of his rival when she should've been...

Pairing/s: Unrequited!Narumi Gen x OC

Note/s: I was too lazy so I just wrote 3 scenes😭 Will make a part 2 soon. It's also connected to 'that decision' mentioned in the intro

Masterlist: TOC, Previous, Next

Uzui Kagami didn't expect her life to take an unexpected turn after transferring to the First Division. Heck, she didn't even expect she'd be recruited by THE Shinomiya Isao but she did! Yet here she was starting to maybe regret her decision as she stared at the lazy man in front of her.

.

.

"Excuse me"

She called out to the man hiding behind a vending machine, crouching like the object would hide his body. The man was playing with a handheld console she recalled was a PSP with a game she doesn't know. His hair was let down to cover his eyes yet she recognizes this man. It was 'The Troublemaker' Narumi Gen, who was in the same squadron as her.

She found him by coincidence after she left the study room to go to the training room as stated in her schedule when she heard sounds coming from a vending machine besides the storage room. It wasn't loud enough to be heard by an untrained ear so any normal human would probably not notice it but Kagami could. She seemed to have deduced that there's only one person in the base who would go out of his way to hide in an inconspicuous location just to play.

"Narumi Gen-san?"

She once again called out to the dual toned hair guy who tried to ignore her once more but couldn't as she stood in front of him.

"What do you want? I'm busy"

Gen just waved her away with his hand then resumed back to his game.

"Training starts in 10 minutes. We're going to be late"

Kagami, with her outstanding patience, didn't seem bothered at all by his gesture. She reminded him of the scheduled training they have that afternoon.

"Then you go by yourself. Why bother asking me?"

Narumi Gen was starting to get annoyed by the persistent woman in front of him.

"I do not wish to see you be scolded for being late if there's something I can do about it"

Kagami gave him genuine concern as she had already seen him be scolded multiple times during her time there. To her, his demeanor wasn't normal and it bothered her.

"Why are you being so concerned? Who are you anyways?"

Gen finally looked up to the meddlesome person in front of him to see a person he didn't know. Her long black hair hanging on her side and black eyes staring at him without any trace of scorn, something he usually sees from people around him.

"Pardon me for not introducing myself first. I am Uzui Kagami who just joined the First Division last week. I was assigned to the same squadron as you, Narumi-san"

Seeing him finally looking at her, she crouched down to meet him eye to eye when introducing herself as it was polite to do so. Her untied hair bouncing as she did, gently draping over her shoulders. Her smile was as polite as it can be but it was doing something to Gen's heart.

"Y-yeah whatever"

Somehow, he couldn't meet her in the eyes so he turned back to his game where the words 'YOU DIED' was displayed. Usually he'd feel frustrated but he was still trying his best to hide the heat that was growing on his face.

"Ummm is that game that important?"

The lady who introduced herself as Uzui Kagami moved to the empty space beside him so she could peek as his game. She doesn't really understand how it works but she could feel that it's importance whenever he focuses his concentration on it.

"I'm about to defeat the boss"

That's what he said when in fact, he was still stuck in the middle levels and just restarted the game. He tried hard to ignore the woman watching him, who was tucking the stray strands of hair on her face back to her ears.

"Will you be able to finish it within 5 minutes?"

Kagami watched him play for awhile then turned to the watch of her wrist. There were only 5 minutes left and the way to the training grounds is also 5 minutes, if not more.

"Probably"

"Then excuse me"

As soon as she heard his response, she immediately put her hands under his knees and on his back then lifted him up. Time was running out and she needs them to go now or they'll be late.

"W-wha?! What the heck is wrong with you?!"

Wide-eyed, Gen was so surprised when he was suddenly lifted in a princess carry that he almost dropped his console. Why was the pretty stranger yet not stranger carrying him?!

"Please don't worry. You can just play your game while I bring you to our destination"

Kagami gave him a reassuring smile as she fast walked to the training grounds with him in her arms.

"It's not that! My problem is why am I being carried like a princess?!"

Gen couldn't help but cover his entire face with his console in embarrassment. Never in his life had he been carried like this by anyone!

"Ohh... I thought it would be better than having you on my shoulder or on my back so you could play comfortably. I'm sorry for touching you without permission"

She slowed down her pace but continued to walk. It really doesn't matter to her what position he's in if they could go there fast but it seems her consideration was a bit too much for him. She couldn't see what was wrong yet as she's still blinded by the fact that they'll be late.

"Just why are you doing this to me?"

"I told you. I do not wish for you to be scolded for being late."

Narumi Gen wanted to die from embarrassment. Yet he couldn't bring himself to be angry at her, who seem to really just want to go with him to the training grounds together.

"At least change the position"

Her eyes brightened and she eagerly let him down and he could see how big their height difference was. She was a head shorter then him yet she could carry him with such ease... Well, most could probably do so but who would want to involve themselves with him if not this weirdo.

"You're so short yet you really think you could carry me?"

He uses his hand to visually compare their heights by placing it on his head then to her own. But his hand couldn't reach her before she crouched down.

"Height does not matter when slaying kaijus. Please hurry up or we'll be late"

She turned to him with a smile as she crouched down in front of him, her hands ready at her sides to carry him.

"You're going to regret this"

He warned her yet he still got on her back to a comfortable piggyback ride to the training room.

'I could get used to this'

He thought as he played to his heart's content without minding anything else, ignoring the fast beating of his own heart. The confused bystanders who saw them couldn't seem to believe their eyes at the sight. The quiet newbie and the troublemaker combo was the least thing they ever expected to see that day.

The combo that would soon become a common occurrence in the First Division.

.

.

.

"Umm why am I doing this again?"

"I told you, you were going to regret it"

He reminded her as she started carrying him again to their destination for the nth time. Kagami couldn't help but sigh at the past her's actions as it was her fault she made him be comfortable by volunteering to be his transportation.

=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=

Only a few months after joining the First Division, Kagami has successfully established herself as a proper member of the base. She would've wanted to be recognized for her skills most but she knew she was more known for something else. That something was related to the missing, newly promoted captain, Narumi Gen.

"That brat, Gen, is missing again. Uzui, do you know where he is hiding this time?"

Hasegawa Eiji, who was annoyed to see the empty room, rubbed his temple as he turned to the only officer standing inside the captain's office. Despite having on a respirator mask, he knew exactly who it was as she's the only one allowed inside his office.

"I beg your pardon Vice Captain Hasegawa but I am not a missing person detector"

Officer Uzui Kagami couldn't help but sigh. She wasn't annoyed but she's been asked about his location all of the time ever since they showed up together, with him on her back, to training. She knew there would be consequences when she chose to be involved with him but she didn't think it would affect her life for so long.

"The two of you are the only ones in the room. There's no way you don't know where he is"

Vice Captain Hasegawa is extremely suspicious. He knew of her skills. The Uzui's are mostly known for being shinobi's, and that shinobi's are masters of deception. He also knew that Kagami is an honest person that doesn't see any benefit from lying. If not for her mask, he could at least try to read her face for any lies.

"Where is he?"

Kagami blames herself for befriending her captain as it meant she had to serve under him and follow his orders directly. It also meant that whenever he's hiding, she'll be the one to find and fetch him. To drag him from whatever mess he's creating and clean up after him.

She isn't scared of her vice captain despite the scary expression on his face right now. Nor is she scared of the complaining her captain will whine about later. She just wanted to get it over and done with.

"He's inside one of the boxes over there sir"

"Kagami, you traitor!"

She pointed over to the tower of amazon boxes that he ordered. She and her captain made a fort that was hollow inside so he could hide when the vice captain arrives but she knew it was a futile attempt. Especially when he let out a loud noise after she exposed his location.

Vice Captain Hasegawa dragged out the whining captain and went out of the room while the officers he brought with him were cleaning up his room. Usually it was her job to do so but she had to follow them out first. After all, she had something more important to do.

After they arrived at Vice Captain Hasegawa's office where Gen was being scolded, she got caught in the crossfire for letting him be. Used to being scolded, Kagami just stood there and let the time pass by.

"Officer Uzui, what's the business you wanted to talk about?"

Vice Captain Hasegawa, having finished his rants turned to the woman still standing properly, ignoring the whining man on the side. She took a letter from her pocket and placed it on the table.

.

.

"Captain Narumi, Vice Captain Hasegawa. I would like to quit the defense force"

"May I ask the reason why?"

The whining captain immediately went silent and the vice captain opened his eyes wide in shock. Hasegawa kept his composure and asked.

"My family has been encouraging me to quit for a long time now. I've been postponing it but I think it's time to listen to them"

"I won't accept that kind of reason"

Narumi Gen, with a uncharacteristically serious expression on his face, was incredibly upset.

"Are you a puppet? It's been on my mind for a long time but why do you keep letting your family decide on your actions? You're old enough to be independent and have a mind of your own yet you still let yourself be pushed around like this"

He stood up from where he was at and trekked towards her, his hair now slicked back revealing his eyes. The eyes that were compatible with Kaiju no.1, which could be considered a lie detector if used well. Stared straight to her own despite the mask, he took the resignation letter and ripped it to shreds.

"You are the one who told me you wanted to change and become better and I believe you. You are my soldier. You can't just leave because you lost confidence in yourself thus blaming it on your family. I am not letting you go just because they said so. Your place is here in the First Division. And you, Uzui Kagami, is stuck here with me because I said so"

Placing his face closer to her own, it would seem really intimate if not for the mask she's wearing. She had no choice but to lift up her head and not break eye contact as it meant she'll lose.

And she did lose. Because all she ever wanted was someone to believe in her and acknowledge her hard work, enough to blow away her worries.

"How is that any different from my family, sir?"

"It's different because I know full well you want to stay here"

This was the moment she vowed to support her captain.

=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=•=

"Hey! Why didn't you tell me?"

As soon as Kagami got back from the day off her fiance forced her to get after getting injured, she was approached by her frustrated captain.

"Tell you what, sir?"

Confused, Kagami tilted her head. She doesn't really know what he's talking about.

"That you're that guy's fiancee"

As if a bulb of realization lit up her mind, she finally understood what he meant.

"Ah... Apologies sir, everyone from my previous division knew so I just thought you guys knew, as well"

Kagami didn't really mean to keep it a secret. She thought it was already a fact everyone knew but clearly it wasn't as she never really talked about it before. It never got brought up in a conversation after all.

"Still does not justify you not telling me! I thought we..."

'...Had something special' is what he wanted to say but trailed off. As he bored holes into her round eyes filled with innocence, he just couldn't bring himself to do so.

"I thought we were friends?!"

He just let out something else, something that describes their relationship better.

"Eh? I thought you said we weren't friends?"

Kagami remember him saying that while Gen recalled his interrupted confession before. He was glad he didn't get to do so as it would've risked everything with her.

"Tsk would I let you carry me and do all that to me if we weren't"

Narumi clicked his tongue, not only from the missed opportunity but also from just being called a 'friend'.

"Captain Narumi..."

"Gen"

"Eh?"

"Just call me Gen, since we're friends and all"

"But..."

"Don't even bother with the honorifics! We're friends so you have the right to call me that!"

Frustrated once more, Gen couldn't help but increase the volume of his voice. He saw how she flinched at his sudden volume so he immediately toned it down.

"If you're that bothered then you can just call me that when we're alone"

Rubbing his neck, he didn't know what to do if she still rejected him after this.

"Alright, Gen"

"Though Gen seems a bit too intimate, can I just call you Gen-kun?"

His heart thumped loudly he thought she could hear it. He asked her to call him that yet here he was getting flustered over it. Even hearing her call him Gen-kun was enough to make him feel like he just slayed multiple daikaijus all by himself.

"I-It's fine either way"

His rival may have gotten her first but there's no way in hell he'll give up just yet.

<- Previous Next ->

[linkemon]

Boy with luv (Shinomiya Kojirou x Reader)

Friendly reminder that English is not my first language. You can check my Masterlists both in English and Polish here. Consider supporting me on Ko-fi. You can also check out my commissions if you’re interested.

Other oneshots can be found here.

[ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ] ᴛʀɪᴇꜱ ᴛᴏ ʙʀɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ʙᴏꜱꜱ, ꜱʜɪɴᴏᴍɪʏᴀ ᴋᴏᴊɪʀᴏᴜ, ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴛᴏ ʙ���ɪɴɢ ᴀɴ ᴀᴅᴜʟᴛ ʙᴇꜰᴏʀᴇ ʜɪꜱ ʀᴇꜱᴛᴀᴜʀᴀɴᴛ ꜰᴀɪʟꜱ…

ᴀᴅᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ɪɴꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛɪᴏɴ: ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ᴀ ᴅᴇᴀɢᴇᴅ ᴀᴜ. ɪᴛ ɪɴᴠᴏʟᴠᴇꜱ ᴀ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ᴛᴇᴍᴘᴏʀᴀʀɪʟʏ ʙᴇᴄᴏᴍɪɴɢ ᴀ ᴄʜɪʟᴅ ꜰᴏʀ ᴠᴀʀɪᴏᴜꜱ ʀᴇᴀꜱᴏɴꜱ.

— Voilà! — [Reader] proudly placed the plate in front of Shinomiya. — Spring composition. Complete rejuvenation!

She sincerely hoped that the opinion about the dish would be positive. Many of her future plans depended on it. Fortunately, the hungry glances of her coworkers, who were waiting for their turn to taste, gave her encouragement. The woman tightly clenched her thumbs behind her back as she watched her boss take the first bite. To her surprise, he froze for a moment and, before he could say anything, disappeared in a cloud of white smoke.

A child sat in his place.

Everyone approached the little one uncertainly. Someone took the fork out of his hand.

— [Reader]-san, what did you put in there? — Abel asked with fear.

— Lime leaves. I wanted it to be... rejuvenating? — she said uncertainly.

In front of her sat a mini version of the boss. He had the exact same short pink hair and amber eyes. He looked quite happy as he played with the rest of the food on his plate.

His expression was definitely not his usual one.

— I like it. He's less grumpy. — Lucie lifted the little one into her arms. — Who's the cutest little thing? Who? — She lifted him up, tickling him with her nose. — I wonder when he'll turn back.

— Maybe we should call an ambulance — Gao suggested.

She was sensible and responsible. After all, that was what was expected of a restaurant manager. [Reader] rarely disagreed with her but this time she couldn't agree with her.

The sanitary inspector would certainly raid the place and closing Shino's would cause huge losses. In her mind's eye, she could already see Shinomiya suing her. And there would be no way to pay off the debts...

— Now we have to get ready to open because the guests will be disappointed. Let's wait until he digests what he ate. I'll take care of him and if it doesn't go away, I'll take him to the ER.

She wanted to strongly believe that the visit would not be necessary.

— We'll manage without you. Take him for a walk so he won't be a nuisance. We'll keep in touch — Lucie said, seeing the rest of the crew wanting to protest.

The woman then took the child from her, took her purse and left the restaurant.

She headed towards the housing estate with a playground.

It seemed to her that all the old ladies in the area had gathered to check her out. They were expressing their admiration for Kojirō-chan. They were congratulating her on her adorable son. [Reader] didn't feel like correcting them. Especially after he had publicly called her "mom". So she nodded with a goofy smile, trying to say a polite goodbye and leave.

The boy kept pulling her hair. Once, he even managed to dig up her lipstick and started using it eagerly. When she tried to wipe his face, she was surprised to find that he was standing without her help. He had also grown heavier. That boded well.

Before she knew it, little boss was running around the sandbox bringing her dishes made of leaves and sand. She tipped them out behind her when he wasn't looking.

It wasn't the time to think about it but she figured Shinomiya must have been a really cute kid once. She felt sad that his adult self wasn't anything like his current self.

Suddenly she heard a soft sob and then a preschooler appeared before her with tears in his eyes. She wanted to say that children grow up too fast but at the last moment she stopped herself.

— He ruined my restaurant. — The boy’s lower lip trembled. —And I was just about to cook you Flan Aux Champignon.

It was enough to glance at a peer playing in a newly acquired sandbox to understand what he was talking about. The fight was paid for with a grazed knee.

— Kojirō-chan, you'll cook me something better next time. — She hugged the little one. — Let's go to the store, I'll buy you some colourful slices and something sweet. — She winked.

Like most school children, he was taken in by the promise of a reward. A taped knee, a juice box and a candy bar effectively did the trick. The woman also sent a text message to her co-workers, assuring them that hospitals would not be needed.

Unfortunately, the problem began when the boss hit his teenage years. He suddenly wanted to taste rebellion. Before she knew it, he ran away at a pedestrian crossing.

She was seriously nervous because Tokyo's neighbourhoods were easy to get lost in. Not to mention the shady characters who sometimes lurked in the alleys after dark.

She often returned home late at night, so she knew the consequences.

She asked passersby and wandered around the area but to no avail.

When she returned to the street where Shino's was located, however, a surprise awaited her. To her immense relief, a grown man was sitting on a bench in front of the restaurant.

— Shinomiya-san, what a luck! — She threw her arms around his neck.

She was glad he was back to normal and in one piece.

The man gently but firmly pushed her away from him.

This was nothing new. Even when he was hugged on his birthday while being congratulated, he felt uneasy. He kept physical contact to a minimum.

— What was in that dish? — he drawled.

[Reader] could feel the cold gaze of amber eyes on her. The tone of his voice was cold and unpleasant. She was starting to miss Kojirō-chan, who would probably jump for joy at the sight of her.

Her legs and head ached from running around the neighbourhoods looking for her boss. Fatigue was making itself known, bringing tears to the corners of her eyes. She blinked as hard as she could but her vision was getting a little blurry.

— The ingredients don’t matter if it wasn’t good! — she sobbed, searching her purse for tissues.

The man noticed the sudden change and his facial expression softened slightly.

— Did I say I didn't like it?

— But...

—Why did you care so much about my opinion? You never cared about it before unless the dishes were for Shino's.

The woman wiped her eyes, trying to calm her breathing.

— This was supposed to be a test of my skills. I want to open my own restaurant in [Country Name]. I feel like I'm suffocating in Tokyo.

— Because who would want to put up with me as their boss? — he snarled.

— Shinomiya-san, you know it's not like that. I just... have to try something new. Go somewhere. Do something more. Remember how after the shokugeki you said you didn't want to stand still...?

— I know what you're talking about.

He knew this feeling all too well.

Ever since he faced Yukihira in a duel, it had been with him all along. Since then, he had wanted more from life. He had set high standards and distant goals for himself and he had stubbornly pursued them. He had been working on his cooking style, hoping that one day he would achieve more than he already had.

But now that the woman wanted what he wanted, he had a problem.

The idea of ​​a restaurant without her stupid jokes, without her dishes and without her seemed downright treacherous to him.

As if she wanted to run away from him and didn't need him anymore.

— You want my opinion? — He pinched the bridge of his nose. — Change that lime note and everyone will be eating out of your hand. If they don't turn into a child first... Just invite me to the opening. — He looked directly at her.

The woman had the impression that there was some hope lurking within him.

— Of course, yes. Besides... I'll visit you. We're not parting forever. There are phones and the Internet. Although after these few years I have to admit that I'll miss you.

Maybe it was time to set new goals, unrelated to cooking.

Kojirō gently brushed a few strands of hair away from the woman's face and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. She hadn't expected that at all, so he wanted to laugh at the sight of her flushed face before him.

— If you don't invite me, I'll just get on the first plane I see. And when I find you, you'll be in big trouble. Let's go — he added, seeing her froze in place.

The woman reluctantly moved toward the restaurant, catching up with Shinomiya.

— You know you offered me a sand cake to eat? — She smiled, looking out at the setting sun.

— I hope it was as good as all my dishes.

— Imagine that I didn't eat it...

She reached out her hand timidly, lacing her fingers with his. The man smiled to himself.

— Don't worry, you haven't lost anything because I'll cook you something better.

He's gained a new and quite pleasant, goal — [Reader] will become his girlfriend.

[mofffun]

King-Ohger x Gotchard pre-Chou Eiyuu Sai talk show

Partial translation/summary

Pep talk before CEYS

Impressions of each other's series

I want to attend XX Academy!

I am King of XX!

Role reverse: What role do you want to play in the opposite series?

link to watch

1. Pep talk before CEYS (02:08 -  

The teams haven't seen each other much save for shooting the SHT intersection. Six months have already passed between then and CEYS (Sep '23 - Feb '24)

Spanner vowed to deliver a passion not shy of KO team

Host joked KO team seemed passionate because of Kaku's physique

Taisei: I saw CEYS a year ago, seems just yesterday, looked forward to the event very much

Aoto: I hope it goes smoothly without trouble.

2. Impressions of each other's series (03:45 -

Rinne: most impressed by the body swap episode, particularly Himeno-san's kabuki pose.

Erica: Sorry for doing something the real Kaguragi never did. Gotchard is a very energetic show, compared to King-Oh's more serious tone, I feel recharged watching Gotchard.

Renge: KO cast are very good friends with each other. The Gotchard cast are friends too, but the kings' bond is something only forged by having worked together closely for an entire year.

Yzy: Not only is the show energetic, but the cast is too behind the scenes. I am the youngest in KO, but the main GT cast is even younger. They are very dependable. (Kaku: sorry for sounding condescending haha /j)

3. I want to attend XX Academy! (05:38 -

Rules: What skill do you want to master? It can be realistic or imaginary.

Matsumoto Hiroya: I want to type fast on a smartphone

Host 2 (Shinomiya Akira): Rita-sama's scream

❤️Cooking

💙Driving

💛Fine art

💜Dialect

🖤Muscle training

🕸️Drawing

___

🐻 Minato: Tonkatsu

Minato: Tonkatsu. I love fried pork chop. A school for tasting, making, and if possible, raising the pigs.

Host: What type of tonkatsu do you like?

Minato: そうっすね [sounds like Sauce-ne~, filler words meaning "yeah, right~"] Thick cuts and slightly rare on the inside.

where Aoto made a pun of そうっすね "Sauce" [for dipping tonkatsu]. Aoto murmured it to Matsumoto Hiroya instead of saying it out loud, and it hit Kaku-san's laughing point to others' confusion.

Minato: um... I prefer salt for seasoning to dipping sauce 😅

❤️ Taisei: Cooking academy

Taisei: Well, I can only depend on myself for cooking, so I kinda want to improve my skills. I even bought a set of knives.

Erica: What do you want to make?

Taisei: Garlic shrimp, maybe? French food seems to be on trend right now.

[Houtarou wrote 料理 (Cooking) too but in Kanji unlike Taisei in English]

Houtaro lives with his family and cooks with his mom on dayoffs. 

Kaku/Masashi: That's just like in the show!

Host 2: Sakai-san, please visit [Houtaro's] mom.

Taisei: LIke a training camp.

Houtarou: Yes, please. Let's make Donburi together. I don't really know what "Garlic Shrimp" is but let's try it out!

[Garlic Shrimp is in Katakana/English, in Japanese it's ninniku & ebi.]

(everyone laughs)

Erica: That's just what it means literally! 😂

Houtarou: We have garlic at home, I just don't know what "shrimp" is... Is it some kind of mushroom?

Kaku: Tracks, they both have the "sh" sound.

Houtarou: "Sh" as in mush, and "rimp" sounds like little cut-up pieces?

Erica: Hint is, it's something from the sea.

Yzy: Then that can't possibly be mushrooms.

Houtarou: Some kind of seaweed? 

Erica: It moves around a bit more than that.

Houtarou: Wakame!

Host: Not even close!/j Please do some research after the show.

💙 Aoto: Automobile Command academy. 

Aoto: Yep, [just a regular] driving school. I haven't got a license yet but I love going on drives, so I could only ride shotgun because I can't drive myself. I want to pay back my drivers so far.

Erica: ah the rest of the king cast.

Aoto: (shy) What do you think?

Hiroya: You look like you ride a motorbike.

Aoto: No, I've never been on one.

Masashi (?): It suits you.

🔧Spanner: Tension Crank-up Academy

Spanner: I want everyone to catch up to my hype!

Host: but the Gotchard cast seems like they're all pretty easily hyped?

Spanner: No. (to Renge) I'm the only odd one, right? (Renge nods) Actually I should just go there and sit by myself right?

Kaku: Yeah, right!

(laughs)

Host 2: Totally wrong answer in a totally fitting tone!

Spanner: Hey, I'm compromising already!

Host 2: Ahhh this is getting out of hand XD

Kaku: "Tension Booming!" [Kibun Bunbun, boonboomger roll call]

(dead air)

Spanner: See? No one is doing tsukkomi [straight man, pointing out irrationalities for comedy].

Erica: Ah, so the reason is there's no tsukkomi character in your group. The others look like they are more comfortable playing boke [funny man]. Maybe that's why the cast seems so cheerful.

Spanner: Who's the tsukkomi in your group?

Erica: Over here. (gestures to Yuzuki and Masashi) Team West.* 

*[t/n: 1. My best guess of Ni-Shi is "Western [Japan]" based on their hometowns being further west than the others. There's a stereotype that Kansai/western people are funny, although neither 💜 or 🕸️ is from Kansai to be exact. Taisei is from Fukuoka, the same region, Kyushu, as Yuzuki, but it's been established pretty early on he can't do tsukkomi. 2. Another guess of Ni-shi is "two colours" as in more-black-than-purle Yuzuki + white Masashi? 3. Or it could be "receive"??]

Kaku: So who will it be on your team?

Spanner: I choose... our best boke, Junsei.

Houtarou: Wahhhh don't sell me out!! ToT

Taisei: Someone else for the tsukkomi position?

Spanner: There's Minato-san, but when he's tsukkomi-ing, it's always under his breath. No one can hear him. 

Minato: I'm not confident...

Spanner: When we were talking about tonkatsu just now, he kept leaning back... Sensei, can we get a tsukkomi out of you from now on?

Minato: *mutters* okay...

4. I am the king of XX! (13:56 - 

Rules: Name yourself, or someone else in the room, as king of something.

Host 2: If anyone in the Gotcard is king of something, I suppose Motojima-san... is the king of shrimps.

Houtarou: Yeah, that's right! Please allow me the honor. No, for real, somebody tell me what "shrimp" is!?

Erica: Another hint, it has a lot of legs.

Houtarou: Octopus!

Kaku: Not even close!

❤️Masculinity 

💙Masashi->White [fair skin]

💛Spontaneous trips

💜internal rhythm

🖤Muscle training

🕸️Aoto->Fried chicken (karage)

___

🕸️💙 Masashi: Aoto is the king of fried chicken.

Masashi revealed that Aoto brought fried chicken to work every morning and would generously share it. He also brought some today too. Aoto quickly took over the explanation and said Masashi is one to read between the lines, like Jeramie. Truth is, when Aoto brought the nuggets, Masashi would snoop, "Hey, what flavour did you get?" Aoto then (have to) say, "You want one?" and give him a piece. The next person would say the same thing and Aoto had to give him a piece too, that person is Taisei. And the worst of them chicken "sharers" is Yuzuki. To her complaint, Aoto mimicked her reaction when given a piece, "Ehh~~~ Really?!" 

[t/n: lmao i could totally get why Aoto would be annoyed by Yuzuki because his imitation sounds absolutely like she's pretentious about it lol. but I could totally see Hirakawa Yuzuki doing that too lmao.]

📱Sabi named Spanner as king of long legs. 

🖤 Kaku-san named himself as the king of muscle training. (Minato loves muscle training too) Kaku-san's weightlifting record is 130kg in barbell.

Rinne is king of video games and Renge plays a thief simulator game and got her into it too.

💛 Erica named herself as the king of spontaneous trips. She can go anywhere and by herself. Last year she went to Osaka and Kyoto for two days unplanned. After she finished work in Kyushu, she stopped by there before coming back to Tokyo. She loved both sightseeing and eating. She re-visited the temple from a family photo taken on a childhood trip.

💜 Yuzuki named herself as the king of internal rhythm. Because King-Oh nearly always films indoors, they can't see the sun and often wonder what time it is. At which they'd turn to Yuzuki for the answer. She estimated the current time to be 12:56, which is just 30 seconds faster. [t/n: She talked about this in tge cinematoday interview 06:13 before the series starts]

5. Reverse Offer (25:03 - 

Rules: What role do you want to play in the opposite series? It can be a real or made-up character.

❤️manly man chemy

💙evil rider 

💛mad scientist 

💜a chemy that keeps screaming non-stop 

🖤kind muscular older-brother type 

🕸️a chemy that can grant any wish

[t/n: 🕸️a chemy that can grant any wish -> that's just Doraemon right.... re: relay interview]

🖤 Kaku: a kind muscular older-brother type

no alchemy, just a kind muscular older-brother type. I will be your personal trainer. You all look a bit slim, leave it to me :D

Minato: a monk, who'd fit in Toufu

💜 Renge: Moffun

Renge: It got a lot of cheers from the audience, so it must be very popular.

Yzy: It'd be interesting to see a Kansai-dialect Moffun.

Renge: [kansai dialect] "Why do you hide your eye? mofu~"

Yzy: Hired!

❤️ Taisei: a manly man chemy

Taisei: I want to become muscular too, after watching Kaku-san the past year. (straight face) Even his naked body, in the main series.

Kaku/Yzy: Hey!

Taisei: (straight face) I'm quite envious of his physique. I want to try working out in the future

Kaku: Okay, I can teach you...

Taisei: Thank you ^_^

(conversation starting to get lost...)

Kaku: Gotcha! [sharp cut keyword]

Spanner: What will your manly-man chemy sound like?

Taisei: ...

Taisei: Gotcha! \(^o^)/

🕸️Sabi: Pet (Jeramie's)

Masashi: So you want to be my pet?

Sabi: Woof!

Masashi: Hired!

💙 Aoto: Evil Rider [proceed to solo-act his oc's story]

Aoto: I want to henshin as a villain. At the very end, he redeemed himself and died protecting the hero, "Remember... something something..." and I die.

Hiroya: That'd be a challenging role.

Host 2: We've seen your Royal Arms, how will your evil rider henshin?

Erica: Don't you always talk about this😂? With the rain.

Aoto: ahhh. Yep, I've got the scene set. At first he was a good guy, then we flashback to his past, a rainy day, the old man who's been taking care of him died in his arms. "AHHHHH", I scream, and the belt materialises "churn churn churn". With blood all over my face, "HENSHIN!! ARGHHHHHH". Like this.

Host 2: A Henshin powered by screams, I see. Minato-sensei, you were an evil rider, what do you think?

Minato: That's more like the hero's backstory. A little like... Spider-man?

Kaku: It's too cool, isn't it?

Aoto: I will henshin with a fried pork chop chemy.

🕶️ Houtarou: King Gotchard

Houtarou: I want to go to King-Ohger's world just as I am, and see what kind of people will follow me if I become the king of gotcha

Host 2: You can take today as an opportunity to ask the kings for advice. What quality does a good king need?

Houtarou: Yes, please. Charisma for sure, what else?

Kaku: If I have to say... aura, perhaps.

Hiroya: You are not answering "muscles" for once?

Houtarou: Honshin? Honkaku? 本心？本格？Genuine? Authenticity?

Kaku: Honkakuha chuuka 本格派中華？Authentic Chinese restaurant?

*laughs* [t/n: treat it as a dad joke 😅...]

Houtarou: No no no, what's that word that means the very base of something.

Spanner: The core. (核心 kakushinn)

Houtarou: Yes, I meant to say "at the core".

Masashi: What kind of kingdom do you want to build?

Houtarou: A bright country! Where everyone can get creative and invent their own recipes like Houtarou.

Kaku: Just like Toufu!

___

The round up is just more pep talk. The talk show is filmed a few hours before CEYS.

___

t/n: I wrote this because of an request. At the very least I want to sub Aoto and Yuzuki's segments. The talk is too funny but quite long and no few jokes. If I end up getting around to it will def be November. Also the op of the video is absent for asking permission...

[lxke02]

SERPENT STYLE

—soshiro hoshina x fem! iguro obanai! reader

PROLOGUE [1/3]

MASTERLIST | NEXT CH. | NAV.

I was born into a family of thieves. There wasn't a single female born into this family for many generations, there wasn't a single girl until I was born. These women are the spouses of the original family members, these woman came outside the family.

My family was rich, although, this wealth didn't come from their hard work. In fact, this riches was stolen by my family from the Kaiju that my family worshipped.

Yes, hidden from the public eyes, there's a snake-like Kaiju living inside the family mansion. In exchange for wealth, my family offers sacrifices, whether it be a spouse, a son, or a brother.

This Kaiju kills people and in return my family stole those poor victim's riches.

Ever since I was born, I was kept in a cell. Imprisoned, the Kaiju took a liking to me and wanted me to grow older. It took a liking to my strange and heterochromia eyes-turquoise and gold.

My family lavished me with jewelry and food. Yet, I barely had the energy to stomach the food they gave me nor wear the jewelry they gave me. The grease fills my small cell, a disgusting smell I grew to hate. The jewelry was too heavy for me and I have no use for it.

When I was 12, some family members took me out of my cell and brought me to the Kaiju.

It was terrifying, her snake-like eyes looking at me with hunger, scales covered her body, her upper body human-like yet the lower half was like a snake. I could only look at her in fear, my small body shaking and trembling. Fearing for its life.

"What's going to happen to me?"

"Am I going to die? Eaten by her?"

Those thoughts kept on repeating inside my mind.

She wanted me to be like her. I cried in pain when family members held me as the Kaiju slit my mouth. A chalice underneath me, collecting the dripping blood from my face.

She took a sip of the chalice. Watching a bit of crimson staining her wide lips after she removed the chalice.

She ordered my family to take me back to my cell.

And I was, I was thrown back to my cell, all bloodied and in pain.

Crimson staining the white yukata I was wearing.

I tried to make myself smaller as I sat at the farthest corner of my cell, rocking my body back and forth, crying silently as I felt the stinging and painful sensation on my cheeks-where the Kaiju cut me, that's where I met Kaburamaru-an albino snake that slithered into my small cell.

Instead of fear, I was curious and the snake didn't seem to be wary of me and gently slid into my arm and wrapped around my neck-surprisingly not choking me.

"You seem nice, I guess you're my friend now." I mumbled to myself, hugging my knees, "What should I name you? How about Kaburamaru?" I asked and I watched as the snake's fork-like tongue slithered out of its mouth. I smiled softly, wincing slightly as I felt the cut on my cheeks.

I tried looking for ways to escape, I somehow managed to chip away the wooden bars of my cell. My thin and malnourished body was able to squeeze through.

I ran.

But it seems like my family noticed my disappearance and immediately alerted the others.

Including the Kaiju.

Thankfully, I was saved.

By a woman who introduced herself as Hikari Shinomiya.

I watched how easily she killed the Kaiju.

I also found out that Kaiju killed all of my family members-except for my cousin.

Hikari-san brought me to my cousin in which he slapped me.

Telling me that I should've allowed myself to be eaten.

Telling me it was my fault for getting my family killed.

At that moment, I felt anger. Anger for my family, and anger towards kaijus.

My last remaining family member left. Stomping his foot as he walked away. My heart numbed yet aching. My face is still stinging in pain from the lack of treatment to my wound.

Yet I watched my cousin's form slowly disappeared into the distance. My eyes dull and blank. The only thing I can think of is, the audacity.

I don't even know his name yet he had the nerve to slap me? I sigh softly, my head heavy and falling into the older woman's shoulder. I'm too tired to think, too sad to care.

I let the older woman carry me into her arms.

"My, that was very harsh of him." Hikari-san says, her hand patting my small back.

"It seems you have nowhere else to go, how about you come with me?" she asked me softly and I looked at her, emotionless and nodded.

That's how I was adopted by the Shinomiya family.

I was welcomed warmly by the Shinomiya family, they treated me like I was their own daughter.

Kikoru was a cheerful and energetic child, she treated me like her own older sister.

They also welcomed Kaburamaru, although they were hesitant at first but they eventually accepted it.

Within the Shinomiya family, they found out I was talented when it comes to the sword.

Mrs. Shinomiya found me swinging the sword, I do not know why she was surprised when I was just swinging it around. I just copied what I saw from watching tv.

I didn't know I held and swung it perfectly with pinpoint accuracy.

Mr. Shonomiya, decided it upon himself to train me.

Although it didn't last long as it seems I freeze up every time he is near me.

They realized I developed a fear for men after what happened to me with my biological family.

Hikari-san urged me to call her mother and Isao-san as father and I accepted her wish.

My mother started to train me herself as it seems I can't train properly with my father due to my phobia of men.

It's not exactly fear, it's more like I grew to hate men. My cousin's voice kept echoing inside my mind, mocking me and reminding me of the past. How disgusting I am, how absolutely dirty of me for the sole reason of my family's death.

I continued to train and train. Promising myself to become stronger to eliminate kaijus. I developed my own techniques, techniques that are inspired by snakes.

The irony of it all.

I began wearing bandages around my face, covering the hideous scar on my cheeks.

Not long after, Mother soon died. Dying to the hands of a Kaiju.

My relationship with my adopted father slowly deteriorated, there was barely any to begin with.

Thankfully, I kept my relationship with my adopted sister intact.

Father changed after mother died. He wanted me and Kikoru to strive for perfection.

Father began to have favorites, that of course being Kikoru.

Father told me to give up on my dreams of becoming a defender, telling me the era of swords was long gone and if I wanted to succeed, I should stick with long range.

"Give up, [name]. We live in a modern era where Kaiju's are only eliminated via guns and canons. Your sword cannot pierce a Kaiju's skin."

Father's voice echoes into my mind.

Unfortunately, my attack power for long range is mediocre but with the sword however, was powerful.

I made sure to hone my talents despite what my father said. I continued my path of the sword. I made sure to be there for Kikoru while maintaining my studies.

I swing my sword a thousand times, I swing my sword till I pass out. I swing my sword till I bleed, crimson staining my hands. The very crimson that stained that Kaiju's lips as she drank my blood through a golden a chalice.

The very memory serves as my motivation, my anger continues to burn.

My hands are too small to hold a canon, my arms are too weak to hold a gun.

But its grip is fueled by anger, each slash filled with intent to kill, intent to kill Kaijus.

Burn that memory into my mind, the horrifying grin of that snake-like Kaiju and the very memory when I heard the news of my beloved adopted mother passed away.

Each swing of my sword, my body continues to burn. I ignore it. Maintain my breathing, make sure oxygen reaches every nook and cranny of my body, make sure every muscle, every blood vessel received oxygen.

Fight, continue fighting. Fight for a future without Kaijus. Fight to serve as motivation for others.

I chant internally, perfectly aware of Kikoru's innocent eyes looking at me with awe as she sat at the engawa of our house as I trained at the garden.

That's right, Kikoru. I know you'll be strong. Your older sister is very proud of you. I hope my image is burned into your memory.

I thought to myself as I grinned underneath my bandages, my arms swinging in the air as I gripped the wooden sword tightly with my hands.

When you swing your sword, you must follow through.

Make sure each slash serves it's purpose.

With one final stance, I slash my sword one last time for the day.

My chest heaves up and down as I panted. A drop of sweat rolled down my neck. I gently relaxed my body and turned to the side to look at my little sister.

She knows I'm smiling at her, with how the sides of eyes crinkled.

"Onee-san! You're so strong! Onee-san was like pow! Boom! And whoosh!" Kikoru says excitedly, animatedly trying to mimic my previous moves, swinging her tiny arms around as if she's holding an imaginary sword.

I chuckled softly, walking towards her.

"Really now? Do you think onee-san can defeat those scary Kaiju's?" I asked her, tilting my head slightly and Kikoru nodded, jumping up from her seat. Spreading her arms widely as she grinned.

"I know onee-san is strong so I know she'll defeat those scary Kaijus!" she says excitedly.

I nodded, my eyes closed as I pat her head, feeling the strands of her golden hair weave through my fingertips.

"Yes, onee-san will defeat those Kaijus."

I decided to leave home and train somewhere else, I couldn't stand being near my father.

"Kikoru, onee-san will now be going somewhere far." I say softly, hugging Kikoru as she silently sobbed into my shoulder. Kikoru nodded, she knows how harsh their father was and as much as she didn't want her older sister to leave her, she knows their father is holding her older sister back.

And leaving home is the only way for her older sister to grow then she'll allow it.

"Make sure to keep in touch, dummy." Kikoru says in-between hiccups and I smiled, "Of course, be a good girl okay?" I say and she nodded.

I waved goodbye to my little sister as I moved away to somewhere far, where I can study and learn without the pressure of my father.

It wasn't long when I got into the Japan Anti Kaiju Defense Forces's third division unit, passing with flying colors and coming on top. Showing the third division unit what she's capable of despite using the blade rather than guns or canons.

That's where I met Soshiro Hoshina, the very person who came after me when it comes to ranking.

Another person who uses a sword when in combat and someone who caught her interest.

AUTHOR'S NOTES

• [Name] didn't take the Shinomiya last name and continued on using her birth last name despite the painful memory it comes with.

• I didn't put any clear ages with the characters because I don't know any of the characters ages, aside from Kafka.

• [Name] and Soshiro would be somewhere around 18 years old during this—specifically when they're about to take the entrance exam.

• Grammatical and spelling errors are present within this fic and improper use of writing symbols (?).

• Following chapters after the prologue chapter may or may not be written from a third person point of view.

[blueesnow]

Ichinose Tokiya's Birthday (Year 1) Voicelines Translation.

-You can look at it again on the Event Log, Mini-Event section (for the other boys messages to him) and Talk section (for a one-on-one conversation with you and him) in Idol Page.

-Also the translations might not be fully accurate since I'm not that fluent on jp/en, so if i ever made a mistake do correct me🙏

<You (Player)> Tokiya: Thank you so much for the celebration. I don't want to get too excited or carried away just because it's my birthday and all but… Tokiya: Since it is my birthday, I'd love to do things that I like for today. …What is it, you ask, of course it means that I want to spend times together with you just the two of us.

<Otoya> Otoya: Happy Birthday! I feel like I could always do my best at so many things because Tokiya's right here beside me! Thank you! Tokiya: You're awfully honest, aren't you? Well then, let me also say something too. You are and will always be my eternal rival.

<Masato> Masato: Happy Birthday. I don't know if it's because Ichinose shares the same hobbies as I am, but we ended up talking a lot together, don't we? I hope we can continue to become good friends. Tokiya: I'm happy to hear that. Likewise, I also enjoy spending time with you too, Hijirikawa-san. Thank you so much.

<Natsuki> Natsuki: Happy Birthday! I hope to hear more of your wonderful and dazzling song in the future, Tokiya-kun. Tokiya: Thank you very much. I believe it's thanks to Shinomiya-san's natural talent that helps me rise to the top as well.

<Ren> Ren: Icchi, Happy Birthday. Don't you think it's fine for you to relax for a bit and just enjoy yourself for today? Tokiya: Oh my, I'm thankful for the advice. Now then, would you mind accompanying me to go for a meal? With mostly vegetable main dishes.

<Syo> Syo: Happy Birthday! Tokiya, I've always been impressed and amazed with how much of a perfectionist you are. Tokiya: My goal is always to aim for the highest place after all. But thank you. I'll be relying on your performance as well, Syo.

<Cecil> Cecil: Happy Birthday. To me, Tokiya is a very reliable person. Thank you for everything. Tokiya: Likewise, Aijima-san's honest and courageous personality is very admirable, and I often feel like I should learn more from you. Let's continue to do our best together, shall we.

<Reiji> Reiji: Happy Birthday, Tokki☆ If you ever had a time when you want to be spoiled by someone, then you're very welcome to go to Rei-chan~☆ Tokiya: Thank you for the offer. Although I don't know if I will ever have such an opportunity like that, but I appreciate the sentiments behind.

<Ai> Ai: Happy Birthday, Tokiya. Although you always look serious but sometimes you also have a childish side as well, I think it's good though. Tokiya: Is that so…? But if Mikaze-san said so, then I'm sure it's a compliment, isn't it. Thank you very much.

<Ranmaru> Ranmaru: Happy Birthday, Tokiya. Go on and continue to sing a great song. That's the thing that you're supposed to do. Tokiya: Thank you for your kind words. I'd be happy if there'll be more chances where we could talk about music again together.

<Camus> Camus: Ichinose, I heard that today is your birthday. I got a book that suits you. Let me know what you think about it after you're done reading it. Tokiya: This sounds very promising… I can't wait until I get off work to read it.

<Kira> Kira: Happy…Birthday. Liking vegetables…is a good thing. I want to have…a balanced diet. Tokiya: I agree. I'm happy to hear that we have similar tastes in food. Thank for you the birthday wish.

<Eiichi> Eiichi: Looks like it's your birthday today, Happy Birthday. Although you might look calm on the outside, but deep down you're actually hiding such a burning passion inside…I think it's very good. Tokiya: Thank you for your kind words. But aren't we all the same? Ah no, looking back at it again, I think you are indeed very passionate.

<Nagi> Nagi: So it's your birthday today, Happy Birthday☆ Nagi's special information! Do you want to hear more about a healthy cake~? Tokiya: To think that you know I pay a lot of attention on my food, thank you very much. …Yes, I'd be glad if you could tell me.

<Eiji> Eiji: Happy Birthday. Can you please tell me your recommendation on some singing practices next time? I'd like to get more closer to your level. Tokiya: Of course I don't mind telling you. But don't forget that it's not only just you, I also want to learn more from your examples too.

<Van> Van: Happy Birthday! To think that you're so calm and cool even on a day like this, talk about a manly guy. I think you have quite a lot of attractive charms! Tokiya: I'm very grateful to know that's the way how you describe me. I mean that's the ideal image that I'm aiming for after all.

<Yamato> Yamato: Happy Birthday. Your dance at the other day was really amazing. The way you used your muscles is perfect. Tokiya: Thank you for the compliment. It was all thanks to the training that we had together. I'm very grateful for it.

<Shion> Shion: Blessings on the day of your birth. I heard that your hobby is reading. I'd like to listen carefully to the words that you'd weave… Tokiya: Thank you very much. You use such a beautiful Japanese language, I feel like we could get along well.

[kesouu]

Blue Star☆｡⁠*✯ﾟ⁠+*⁠.✧

(⁠☆) Narumi Gen x Oc

(｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+ CHAPTER 3 +ﾟ⁠*｡⁠)

(⁠｡⁠•̀✧) THIS ONE HAS SPOILERS FOR KAIJUU NO. 8 B-SIDE!!! (In case for people who didn't see my edit last chap, this story is 2 years before the main plot of the show!!)

7 years ago...

"So your saying...THE CAPTAIN OF THE STRONGEST DIVISION WANTS TO INVITE US TO THEIR BASE?! AS IN THE ARIAKE MARITME BASE?!" Hoshiko yells as they exit the hospital, Narumi who walked with her slapped a hand to her mouth "You sure are noisy for someone who was just discharged from the hospital." He complained as a car pulled up in front of them and a tall man exits the car "I am Eiji Hasegawa, First Division Platoon Leader. I'm here to escort the both of you to headquarters."

"Ha-Hasegawa-san...." Hoshiko mutters, her expression displaying pure awe at the person infront of them not minding how Narumi grabbed her arm and pulled her into the car with a scowl on his face. The drive to their destination was short but the boy still slept on Hoshiko's shoulder for the ride. Looking at him, she realized the bags under his eyes have grown darker 'I must have worried him...' the girl thought as she frowned at the thought of Narumi staying up late at night waiting for her to wake up from what the doctors mentioned was 3 days.

Hoshiko stood in awe once more as they got out of the car "It looks so mugh bigger in person!" She gushes at Narumi who rolls his eyes "It's what ever." He says while walking away leaving his friend to catch up. "Were going to run some tests on both of you just to see your unleased combat power, it's not normal for people to just randomly use carcasses that aren't adjusted as weapons" an operator explains to the two as they both laid down on a table as other operators set the devices need for the test.

"The boy's unleashed combat power...is 24 percent?!" Hasegawa explains as he looked at the numbers on the screen "The girl, too has quite the impressive number with 21 percent." The captain, Shinomiya, mentions as well "It would seem their aptitude for Kaijuu cells are remarkably high in general. Also we haven't officially confirmed this yet...but the boy is showing potential aptitude for weapon 1." Silence follows in the room as Hasegawa is the first to break it "Aptitude for a numbers weapon?!"

"It wouldn't be a stretch to call both of them abnormal. It's no wonder they managed to use an unadjusted uniorgan." Shinomiya states as Hasegawa looks at both the teens backgrounds that were in both his hands 'Gen Narumi. He has high academic and athletic marks, but he's been suspended from school multiple times due to misconduct. He lost his parents to a kaijuu cataclysm. Hoshiko Mitsuba, the same as Narumi, high academic and athletic marks but was the opposite of him in terms of conduct. She lost her parents to the incident 3 days ago.' Hasegawa read as he looked at both profiles 'no next of kin, huh?'

"Are we done here? We're busy and Hoshiko was ordered by the doctors to take it easy for a while. If that's all, were going home." Hoshiko nudged his side with her elbow at the disregard to officials "Gen that's rude!" She whispered but the boy payed no mind and brought out his hand-held console while linking his arm with Hoshiko. "You're going home, you say? The facility you were living in has been destroyed, and Mitsuba's house has been destroyed as well. You're two are going to live in the evacuation shelters now that Mitsuba has been discharged, aren't you?" Shinomiya questions Narumi as he replies uncaringly "We dont care where we go." Hoshiko could only sweat drop and stand beside Narumi awkwardly as he answered for her so she continued listening on "It"'s not like I've grown attached to any of the orphanages I've been in so far. All they ever did was pass me off to the next place."

"You've always survived by your own strength. That's what you said back there, correct?" Shinomiya pushed on in questioning "Yeah, I don't have any next of kin. None of my teachers or any of the folks at the orphanages have ever done a thing for me. Hoshiko has been the only one to step up, you guys are no different, right? What good does a test proving I'm abnormal do?" Narumi explained, eyes still trained on his console screen "Mitsuba and Narumi...was it? You two should join the defense force." Hoshiko's is left mouth agape and eyes wide at the proposal 'Captain Shinomiya himself is asking me and Gen to join the defense force?!' she though as Narumi finally lifted his eyes from his screen "Say what? The defense force? Us?" Narumi asks skeptically "That's right. Our objective is exterminate kaijuu. Both of your power will ine day be necessary to protect this nation." Silence flowed through the air as Shinomiya waited for Narumi and Hoshiko's response.

"You're just saying that you want to take advantage of us, aren't you?" Narumi replied with his eyes back onto his game "That all depends of the both of you. We accept anyone who shows skills and results. That's the sort of place the first division is." Hasegawa glances to Shinomiya as he though 'Captain Shinomiya seems to be putting a great deal of stock in these kids.' he stares down at the ground in with a face of frustration 'I suppose I'm no different. There's an air currently hanging over the defense force. Stagnation. Mr. Isao has served as the captain of the first division for a long time. Under normal circumstances it wouldn't be surprising for him to transfer to headquarters now that he’s physically past his prime. Vice captain Itami is in a similar boat, considering his skills and career. The reason is plain and simple. We lack an impeccable ace officer.’

‘Now that the captain of the second division, Hikari Shinomiya, once a shoo-in for taking over as captain of the first divison – has died... there is no one to serve as mr. Isao and vice captain Itami’s replacement. But... I sensed something immesurable from both these kids on that rainy day.’ Hasegawa thinks back to the sight of Narumi holding up the head of that kaijuu and Hoshiko finishing off both kaijuu that had attacked her home as he passed by. ‘Some may call it a hunch. “These two can make big changes in the defense force.” That’s what I told myself.’ Narumi looks up in thought and glances at Hoshiko with a smirk, the girl could only sigh and nod as Narumi answered for both yet again.

“So you’ll accept anyone so long as they show skills and results, eh? Sounds interesting.”

The two soon applied for the defense force entrance exam that year both passing with top marks in all parts, written and physical. Standing atop of corpse upon corpse were them as they personally killed for the second round of the exam that was live kaijuu neutralization. Narumi looks up to the drone assigned to him as he spoke “I’m going to see if what you said was true about the defense force.” He said smiling triumphantly while Hoshiko sweat dropped at what she got herself into, she may had no idea what to do after grad, but joining the defense force to follow the only thing she had left in the world was certainly not one of them.

-☆☆

[shiningwonderland]

Ai Mikaze (All Star)

Translator: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Proofreader: Raine (Twitter: amagiyas)

Editor: Snail (Twitter: herbert_snail)

Happy Ending — Unfading Memory

I’m waiting backstage when Mikaze-senpai finishes changing into his stage outfit.

He always looks good, but standing there in the dark in his outfit, it makes him look like a real prince.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai…

Feeling as if he’s going to vanish, I grab his sleeve.

That’s when I notice that his hand is burning hot.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai… Your body is burning up…

I recall Shinomiya-san’s regretful expression from earlier—could this really be the end…?

Meanwhile, Kotobuki-senpai's performance had already started, which means that Senpai would be going up next.

Ai Mikaze: Come here… Haruka… It’s fine, I’m still alright.

Senpai takes me to a corner of the set where he leans against a wall.

Haruka Nanami: Mikaze-senpai…

Ai Mikaze: Don’t make that face—we made a promise after all.

He says this in such a painful tone, but still looks at me with a smile.

Ai Mikaze: To be honest… it looks like it’s about time. A sizable amount of data—no, of my memory is already gone.

Ai Mikaze: It’s already at the second stage… I'm on the verge of losing even the memories that are important to me.

He taps his chest.

Ai Mikaze: However, it seems like my system will reach its limit before my memories can fade.

Ai Mikaze: In both cases, I won’t be able to sing.

He clenches his chest in frustration.

Ai Mikaze: Just a little longer. I want to perform our song…

He squints at the light spilling from the stage.

Haruka Nanami: It's going to be okay! I'm sure it will be... Don't worry, I'll be watching you from here.

To reach him, I give him my best smile.

Ai Mikaze: Yeah… A smile really suits you the best.

After saying that, he pats me on the head.

As Kotobuki-senpai finishes his song on stage, applause and cheers erupt from the crowd.

Ai Mikaze: Now that I think about it, I haven't spoken to Reiji. I wonder if my sudden disappearance will affect him.

Ai Mikaze: If he asks, tell him I'll be back soon.

Haruka Nanami: Okay.

Ai Mikaze: Well, I better get going.

He pushes his body away from the wall. He stands firm in front of me, as if the pain written on his face a moment ago had only been an act.

Ai Mikaze: Thank you for everything, Haruka. I'm going to convey our feelings properly to everyone.

He raises his head with determination and gazes at the stage.

Ai Mikaze: So please, watch me with a smile.

Haruka Nanami: I will! You’ve got this!

To my answer, he responds with another smile.

Ai Mikaze: Farewell, I’ll be going.

He pats me gently on the head and heads for the stage.

When Mikaze-senpai appeared on stage, the cheers grew louder.

Ai Mikaze: This song is for everyone who has supported me so far! "Winter Blossom"

After saying that, a calm piano melody echoed through the hall.

[CREDITS]

When he finishes his song, there is a brief moment of silence.

Then the applause spreads like a wave and envelopes the hall.

Attendee A: Amazing... That song had so much feeling that I actually started to cry...

Attendee B: Yeah, it was calm but it touched my heart. I can’t believe such a song actually exists…

Mikaze-senpai, who has just finished singing, bows deeply and is enveloped by the cheers.

Ai Mikaze: Thank you very much!

Standing in the center of the spotlight, he faces the audience with a smile.

Smiling and waving, Mikaze-senpai comes back behind the stage.

However…

Ai Mikaze: Ugh—

The moment the audience can't see him anymore, his face contorts in pain and he collapses.

Haruka Nanami: Mikaze-senpai!!

When I reach out to him, his body is fiery hot under my touch.

Ai Mikaze: Ku… hah—sorry…

Kneeling on the ground, his breathing is heavy and ragged.

Syo Kurusu: Ai! Hey—what’s going on?!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ai-chan! Are you okay?!

They come backstage and run towards us.

Haruka Nanami: Mikaze-senpai, he—

Syo Kurusu: In any case… let’s get him outta here for now!

They pick him up and take him away from the backstage area.

We let him sit against the wall of the hallway.

Perhaps because this place is out of sight for the others, Senpai gently opens his eyes.

Ai Mikaze: Haruka… did I… do a good job?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! It was brilliant! The audience was deeply moved as well!

Ai Mikaze: I see, that’s good... Thank you for watching me so intently. Also Syo… Natsuki…

He calls out their names as he struggles to breathe steadily.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ai-chan…

Syo Kurusu: What is it…

Ai Mikaze: Syo, take good care of yourself… Never miss practice… keep at it every day…

Ai Mikaze: Stay cheerful and energetic—after all, that’s what you do best... Make the most of your charm.

Syo Kurusu: Hey… Ai…

Ai Mikaze: And you, Natsuki… don’t just sing with energy, try to think a little more about it. You have a lot of talent… so it's okay to be more confident.

Ai Mikaze: I’m sure that your usual cheerful attitude helps everyone around you. Whatever happens, just continue to be yourself.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ai-chan… Understood.

Shinomiya-san rubs his eyes and nods his head several times.

Ai Mikaze: I know because I've been watching you both closely. Listen... don't let up. Aim to become top idols...

Syo Kurusu: Enough… This has to be a joke…!

A single tear runs down his face.

Ai Mikaze: And also…

He looks at me and raises his right hand.

I take his hand, which has now gone cold.

My tears stream down my face, unable to hold them back any longer.

Ai Mikaze: You are… carefree and also a little reckless. Yet when it comes to music, you are incredibly diligent.

Ai Mikaze: But you are also fragile and a bit of a crybaby. The truth is, I always wanted to protect you...

He gently strokes my cheek with his finger.

Ai Mikaze: … Natsuki, Syo… I’m leaving her… in your care…

Haruka Nanami: Mikaze… senpai…

Syo Kurusu: You can count on us!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes, we’ll take care of her. You can breathe easy, Ai-chan.

Relieved, Mikaze-senpai takes a deep breath. Then he looks at me again.

Ai Mikaze: I’m sorry… for making you cry… Thank you for everything, Haruka.

Haruka Nanami: No…

Ai Mikaze: Wherever they play our song… I’ll be there…

From the monitors in the hallway, we could hear the announcement of the results.

Shining Saotome: This year's grand prize winner is…

I squeeze Mikaze-senpai’s hand tightly, and he faintly squeezes mine back.

Shining Saotome: The winner is… Ai Mikaze!!

I can hear the cheers.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai…! We did it!!

Syo Kurusu: Amazing!! You really did it, Ai!!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Did you hear that? You won, Ai-chan! Congratulations! I… I’m so happy!!

Syo-kun ruffles Mikaze-senpai's hair while Shinomiya-san hugs him.

Ai Mikaze: …Thank you… everyone… and…

He looks at me with gentle eyes.

Ai Mikaze: Congratulations on your debut, Haruka…

Haruka Nanami: Thank you… so much…!

With a final smile, he slowly closes his eyes.

Syo Kurusu: Ai!!

The hand I was holding lost all its strength and fell limply.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ai-chan!!

Haruka Nanami: Mikaze-senpai…!!

No matter how much we call, he would not answer.

Mikaze-senpai's system had shut down completely at that moment.

Later, the doctor who rushed to the scene took Mikaze-senpai's body.

Mikaze-senpai, who had previously been active on the Internet—

—was said to have returned to his online activities, when in fact he had disappeared.

At first, Mikaze-senpai's song was played all over town, but lately I've noticed that it hasn’t been playing as often as before.

In the meantime, I have successfully become an employee of Shining Agency as a full-time composer.

However, after I signed the contract, I didn't pair up with anyone.

Actually, it’s more like  I didn't want to pair up with anyone.

Fortunately, work requests have increased greatly since my debut.

I spend my time taking care of these tasks while also managing the songs that Mikaze-senpai left behind.

Then, one day—

Haruka Nanami: Huh? A tribute live for Mikaze-senpai…?

Syo Kurusu: That’s right. It was Natsuki’s idea. The agency just asked us to perform at the office’s young talent live.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Correct. That’s where we thought that it would be nice to sing Ai-chan’s song. We would like you to help us with that.

Haruka Nanami: I would really like to help you, but…

That would just make it look as if Mikaze-senpai was really gone for good.

As I ponder, Syo-kun taps me on the shoulder, noticing how I feel.

Syo Kurusu:We also thought about it a lot, but he said it himself, didn’t he? That he’ll be wherever his song is being played.

Natsuki Shinomiya: You see, as long as we continue to sing it they won’t be able to forget Ai-chan’s song…

Natsuki Shinomiya: This is how we keep Ai-chan alive in everyone's hearts.

Syo Kurusu: It's also a way of challenging ourselves. We want to see how close we can get to his level.

Syo Kurusu: After all, we want to reach him. We'll give everything we have as we strive for that goal.

Syo-kun’s seriousness as he says all this leaves quite an impression on me.

Natsuki Shinomiya: And then there is you, the person who understood Ai-chan the most. You would definitely treat this song with care...

Natsuki Shinomiya: Please, won’t you accept our request?

I'm still confused when Shinomiya-san bows and Syo-kun looks at me with a worried face.

Syo Kurusu: And also... we promised Ai that we'd take care of you... It broke our hearts to see you so sad all the time...

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes, I’m sure Ai-chan would be sad too as long as you’re not happy. So… why not join us and enjoy it?

I see, so those two were worried about me this whole time…

Haruka Nanami: Thank you so much, you two.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Fufu, we did promise him, after all. Ai-chan told us to take care of you.

Syo Kurusu: You can pay us back by helping with the live! Just kidding. But really,  please help us out!

Being miserable is not going to bring Mikaze-senpai back.

Just because Senpai is gone from our lives doesn’t mean he is gone from our memories.

Seeing their smiling faces has reminded me of that.

Haruka Nanami: Okay, I’m in!

The two lift their heads and shout with joy.

Syo Kurusu: Alright!! Let’s prepare the best live for his sake!!

The three of us give each other high fives.

A few weeks later…

Syo Kurusu: Hey everyone! Thanks for coming to our concert!!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Today, we’ll sing a song that belongs to someone very important to us. We can’t meet them now, but this song will stay in our hearts forever.

Syo Kurusu: And not just with us, but we want to deliver this song to everyone as well!

Syo Kurusu: With that thought in mind, we decided to perform that song today! We hope you like it!

A familiar piano melody echoes through the hall.

Shinomiya-san and Syo-kun sing along to the melody.

Since I was used to hearing Mikaze-senpai’s voice for this song, hearing these two take it on was like listening to a whole new song.

The three of us had a lot of discussions surrounding the song selection and arrangement work.

Whenever we had run into a problem, we wondered what Mikaze-senpai would have said—that is what we did for today's live.

During those times, we had felt that Mikaze-senpai was still alive in our hearts.

“As long as the music plays, I’ll live on.”

Now I feel that I can understand the meaning of those words.

Attendee A: This is Ai Mikaze’s song, right…? I haven’t listened to him much recently… I didn’t know he’d made such a good song…

Attendee B: I’ll listen to his CD once I get back home! But those two aren't bad themselves~ Seriously, I’m moved. I wonder if they were close with him.

When the two finish singing, the hall echoes with warm applause.

Those two keep singing one song after the other, putting all their heart into it.

The audience is really into their performances.

Eventually, the concert reaches an end.

Syo Kurusu: Please listen to our final song for today…

Natsuki Shinomiya: “Winter Blossom”.

Their announcement is followed by the clear sound of a piano.

I close my eyes and entrust my body to the sound.

This song feels so nostalgic.

After the gentle piano introduction, I listen to their voices.

It’s the song they’d practiced the most.

As they enter the chorus, another voice joins in—

Huh…? Wait—this voice...?

Cheers erupt from the audience.

When I open my eyes, there on stage I see—

Haruka Nanami: —Mikaze-senpai?

I see Shinomiya-san and Syo-kun's surprised expressions out of the corner of my eye.

I start running to the backstage area.

When I reach the backstage area, Shinomiya-san and Syo-kun had just returned from the stage.

And their gazes were fixed on…

???: Let’s see, you are Syo and you must be Natsuki. According to my data, the one singing with power is Syo and the one singing with feeling is Natsuki.

Syo Kurusu: Hold on, you’re…

Natsuki Shinomiya: Eh, um…

We look at each other in confusion, then he turns in my direction.

???: You are…

Professor: Ah, there you are! You can’t just walk on stage like that.

Haruka Nanami: Professor?!

The man in the white lab coat rushes toward us.

Syo Kurusu: What is the meaning of this?

Professor: Well, I heard you’d all be gathered here today, so I tried really hard to repair him.

Professor: When the song started, he suddenly ran off. Sorry for interrupting your performance.

Haruka Nanami: “Repair”…?

I look at the figure standing next to the professor.

He really has the same appearance as…

Professor: Ah, let me introduce you. This is the new Ai Mikaze. New Ai, based on restored data from the original Ai.

Both: New Ai?!

Professor: Yeah, since the body and data remained I tried to restore them again.

Professor: ... Of course, this Ai is an independent existence. That’s why he can sing freely.

Professor: I did something unforgivable to you… and to Ai… That’s why I wanted to give Ai a new life.

Professor: However, he has to relearn everything from scratch. That’s why… I came to introduce him to you today. I’d hoped you guys could help with that.

Syo Kurusu: Help? But how…?

Professor: You may call it a “Reverse Master Course”, maybe?

Professor: I want him to live with you boys. The sooner he does, the faster he can start his daily life as an idol. I want you both to teach him all kinds of things.

Syo Kurusu: EH——?! Another Master Course?! Ah, but this time it’d be the other way round I guess…

Professor: Exactly. This time around, you will be his senpai, so please don’t hold back. And then…

The professor turns toward me.

Professor: I would like you to compose another song for Ai. This one seems to have taken a liking to your songs.

Professor: I made sure to ask for permission from Shiny-san this time. What do you say, would you do that?

Professor: … Come on Ai, introduce yourself.

Upon hearing the professor's words, the person called "Ai" steps before us.

Ai Mikaze: I’m Ai Mikaze. Nice to meet you.

He bows.

Mikaze-senpai has returned to us, but as our junior now.

Despite my confusion, I had still agreed to start my daily life as his partner.

Today, the three of them are moving in together for the second Master Course.

I also came to help them move.

Haruka Nanami: The Master Course is so exciting, right, Mikaze-senpai?

Ai Mikaze: Senpai…?

Haruka Nanami: Oh, um, I mean… Ai-... kun… Ahh! I can’t say it!

The new Mikaze-senpai was no longer my senpai so we kind of ended up agreeing on “Ai-kun” but…

I just can’t get used to it.

Haruka Nanami: Please just let me call you Mikaze-senpai like before!!

Ai Mikaze: Okay? Well, just call me whatever you want. Ah, Natsuki, could you put that on the shelf?

Natsuki Shinomiya: Suure, leave it to me~! Heave-ho!

Shinomiya-san lifts the cardboard box.

Huh…?

Ai Mikaze: And Syo, could you carry this?

Something is off…

Syo Kurusu: I got it! Should I put it in the wardrobe for now? ... Wait a minute.

Syo Kurusu: Nonono! Why are YOU acting like our senpai? You're the one who's learning from us this time! You too Natsuki, don't get carried away!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, that's right. They look the same, so I guess I just forgot.

Syo Kurusu: Okay, listen up. This time we’re your senpai! We’ll hammer the way of an idol into you!

Ai Mikaze: Hm… But since I’m actually better at singing than you, it might be more efficient for you to just teach me about everyday life.

Syo Kurusu: No, that’s not… Ah, whatever. That might actually be more like Ai, so it’s fine.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes. It'll really feel like Ai-chan has returned. I’m so happy!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Besides, he is my junior now! This makes me so happy that I could hug you!

Shinomiya-san is already scooping Mikaze-senpai into a hug as he speaks.

Ai Mikaze: What’s up with that…? What’s the meaning behind this behavior?

Mikaze-senpai looks at me with a troubled expression.

Haruka Nanami: Um, that’s a way to express happiness! I think.

Ai Mikaze: Happiness… hm. I see, I’ll add it to my data.

He mumbles while being hugged.

Syo Kurusu: Come on Natsuki. Let him go, or we'll never finish moving in.

Syo-kun pulls Shinomiya-san away from Mikaze-senpai.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah! Speaking of happiness, I’m about to release a new CD soon!

Shinomiya-san says while clapping his hands together.

Haruka Nanami: Oh my, really? Congratulations!!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes, and thank you. Umm, also~ I was wondering if you could compose a song for me?

Haruka Nanami: Huh? You mean me?

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes. I wanted to add a song that is different from my usual ones. What do you say?

Haruka Nanami: Well, of course—

Syo Kurusu: Hey, Natsuki! Don’t just rush to the point! I also wanted to ask her the same favor for my next song!

Natsuki Shinomiya: I’m not rushing! I’ve been thinking about it for a while. Even if it’s you Syo-chan, I won’t give in!!

Haruka Nanami: No, um. First, let me check our schedules…

As I fumble for an answer, I’m suddenly pulled away from them from behind.

Ai Mikaze: For your information, you two: she’s actually my partner. Didn’t you know?

Haruka Nanami: M—Mikaze-senpai?!

When I look behind me, Mikaze-senpai is standing there, holding my arm.

Ai Mikaze: As my partner, you should first and foremost compose songs for me.

His face is suddenly very close to mine.

Haruka Nanami: No, um, I wasn't going to compose their songs immediately and I also planned on composing one for you…

Haruka Nanami: But first, Senpai, my arm…

Ai Mikaze: If you promise to compose my song first, I’ll let you go.

Mikaze-senpai stares at me intently, waiting for my answer.

We seem to have returned to another selfish situation.

Natsuki Shinomiya: But, but Ai-chan, didn’t you tell us to look after her?

Ai Mikaze: Sorry, I forgot a lot of things so I can’t remember.

Syo Kurusu: Wow, you're going to use that as an excuse…?

Mikaze-senpai looks me straight in the eye.

Haruka Nanami: Um… sorry. For now, it looks like I’ll have to compose Mikaze-senpai’s song first…

Haruka Nanami: As for the songs for you two, we could get to that another time?

Shinomiya-san and Syo-kun exchange glances at each other.

Syo Kurusu: Hah... Not that we have much of a choice when you say it like that.

Natsuki Shinomiya: I understand. I’ll be patient for now for you two. But next time for sure then!

Haruka Nanami: Well then, it’s a pleasure to work with you again, Mikaze-senpai!

Ai Mikaze: Mmhm, the pleasure is all mine.

When he finally lets go of me, Mikaze-senpai reaches out his hands.

And as I reach out to take his hands…

He pulls me in for a hug before I can react.

Syo Kurusu: Hey, Ai! You—What—What’s suddenly gotten into you??

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ai-chan, that’s not fair! I also want to give hugs!!

Haruka Nanami: Mi-Mi-Mikaze-senpai! Why did you—

Ai Mikaze: Hearing you say that you’ll compose a song for me made me happy. This is what you do to express happiness, right?

Haruka Nanami: W-Well… yes, but…

Syo Kurusu: Whatever, just let go of her! And also, love is forbidden for idols! You can’t just flirt in front of other people!

Seeing that he had no choice, Mikaze-senpai let me go.

Natsuki Shinomiya: But Ai-chan looks happy. I’m glad he came back.

Syo Kurusu: Yep, you have a point…

They whisper as they watch us intently.

And with that, we soon finished moving everything in.

Haruka Nanami: That’s right! Let’s take a little break, I got us some snacks!

Ai Mikaze: Snacks?

I take out the box with the desserts I bought.

Mikaze-senpai's mouth opened at the same moment the box was unsealed.

Ai Mikaze: … This one is called "Marine Jelly". It's a food inspired by the ocean, hence its blue color.

Haruka Nanami: … Huh?

He looks at the multi-layered jelly in my hand.

Ai Mikaze: The layers show an image of going from shallow to deep water. The starfish and shells are edible. It’s delicious, so I think Natsuki and Syo will like it.

He’s saying it all so confidently.

Haruka Nanami: How… do you know that?

Ai Mikaze: I know…? How, indeed. I just knew, or maybe it’s more accurate to say that I remembered.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai, does that mean—!

Mikaze-senpai taps his chest.

Ai Mikaze: It’s not like everything was lost. The memories that were deemed important are most likely still here.

Ai Mikaze: You, Syo, Natsuki, and my friends are all inside this treasure called "memories" that I received from my previous self.

Ai Mikaze: Swimming in the vast sea of memories, just waiting to be remembered. The way he expresses himself is just like Mikaze-senpai used to do.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai…

It's like seeing a glimpse of hope.

Mikaze-senpai is looking at me with a searching look in his eye.

Ai Mikaze: You know, Haruka, for some reason I really enjoy singing freely. So I want you to teach me a lot about it.

Haruka Nanami: I’d be happy to teach you.

Ai Mikaze: Syo, Natsuki, the same goes for you too.

Syo Kurusu: Heh, sounds good! Leave it to me!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes! I’ll teach you everything you once taught us!

Ai Mikaze: Thank you. I’m looking forward to it!

That's when Mikaze-senpai gives the three of us a big hug.

Haruka Nanami: Huh?! Mikaze-senpai?!

Syo Kurusu: Whoa, Ai! Stop it, why are you squeezing us so hard! Let go—!!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yay! A hug from Ai-chan! Hehe, let me hug you back! Squeeze!!

Thus begins our new daily life with Mikaze-senpai.

Together, we embark on a journey to retrieve the treasure called "memories”.

The past and the future are now with us.

Shinomiya-san, Syo-kun and Mikaze-senpai—

—let's go on a wonderful adventure.

Chapter End

[thepageofhopes]

Does anyone still do these anymore? Either way I updated my fav character bingo since it's been a bit. Characters under the cut (numbers from left to right, top to bottom)

Ink!Sans, Underverse. Scene chosen here is because he looks cute, but the cut off speech bubble is him being nonchalant about betraying all of his friends

Sayaka Miki, Madoka Magica. It's hard to find a good happy picture of her so Magia Record gacha animation will have to do.

Utena Hiiragi/Magia Baiser, Gushing over Magical Girls. Can't go wrong with the phenomal 'are you sorry' scare face.

Mion Sonozaki, Higurashi. I love her especially in her goofier times.

Subaru Natsuki, Re:Zero. Scene chosen here is one of my favorite moments of him from Season 1, the moment where he chooses to throw away his chance at a peaceful life to save those literally trying to kill him.

Gamzee Makara, Homestuck. Scene chosen because it's what sold me on Homestuck and him in general.

Rui Kamishiro, Project Sekai. While I could use the upgraded pretty cards, the moment where he coldly defends his friends is my favorite moment of him in the entire game so far.

Bete Noire, Glitchtale. Not the scene that made me want to cosplay her, but still one of the scariest looks in the animation.

Suika Ibuki, Touhou. I sadly can't put a gif of her swaying back and forth due to being drunk af, but imagine it there.

Azula, ATLA. Gotta love the smirk as she's captured.

Kaiji Ito, Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor. Had to get a scene of him whith those nice scars, they really show his detrmination through everything.

Keiichi Maebara, Higurashi . While I haven't seen Gou, this is a great shot of him. I love his determination and trust in his friends even in the darkest moments.

Kallen Kouzuki, Code Geass. The scene here is her about to use the Guren on Orange-kun, which is one of her best moments season 1 and is just a great shot of her in general.

Rose Lalonde, Homestuck. I actually quite like her Pesterquest art, and it screenshots the best.

Junko Enoshima, Dangan Ronpa. Her reveal and arrogant form is my favorite of her sprites.

Helen Richardson, Magnus Archives. Great depiction by theoldkyokodied since there's no official image!

Undyne, Undertale. Her True Hero form is what sold me on the game, and was also my first true boss I faced since I did a genocide run first.

Katara, ATLA. Love this scene where she confront the one who killed her mom and shows just how powerful she is.

Kaguya Shinomiya, Love is War. Hard to choose a pic here since there's two sides to her personality and I love them both, but I really love the fireworks episode and her escape is great.

Tahani Al-Jamil, The Good Place. She's so pretty but also her arc and personal troubles really resonate with me.

Kabru, Dungeon Meshi. Great colors and expression from the anime here, really showcasing his manipulative edge.

Tsukasa Tenma, Project Sekai. Very Subaru like character, I love how much he grows through the game and the moment where they get the entire park together to put on the huge event is probably my favorite sekai moment.

Lord Dominator, Wander over Yonder. I do love me a villainess who loves being evil, and the scene here of her manipulating hater is great.

Lelouch Vi Britannia, Code Geass. While the scene here is of his more evil/manipulative side, I actually really love him because of his humanizing moments.