#sorta? it's not intended to be a traditional fanfic

[honeycirrus]

I've been seeing a lot of the "This isn't Wild, it's Dink in disguise" theory, and I don't know if I subscribe to it yet, there's evidence, but I'm not sold, but if that IS what's happening here, allow me to give an idea of how it might unfold in the next page because I'm a writer, so naturally I'd rather work on a little writing theory instead of my dozens of WIPs

We see Wild calm down a moment. He takes a step back and gives a gentle smile, looking down. The Colors visibly waver. They don't WANT to fight him in the first place, they just have to stop him from doing something stupid and impulsive on top of the day's long line of Stupid And Impulsive Wild Decisions.

Then Wild suddenly lunges forward, drawing his sword, and clashing with the Four of their swords, but no immediate fight scene. Wild's hair is covering his eyes.

"Heh... None of you know when to quit, huh?"

Wild lifts his head. His eyes are all black, with red irises. The Colors look visibly disturbed.

"There's a fine line between bravery," "Wild" begins, his sword beginning to drip a black ooze over the four Four Swords. There's a panel showing Time and perhaps Hyrule have come out to see the commotion. (yes, Twilight is Doin Bad, but also I think when I'm healing someone that's dying, I would like to know if I'm about to be attacked by a monster BEFORE getting invested in that)

"...and foolishness," "Wild" continues, his grin twisting into a sneer, dripping with more black sludge.

We look back at the Colors. They all have appropriate reactions for their personalities, Vio looking horrified but fascinated, like watching a car crash. Red looks like he's about to be sick. Blue is sweating nervously, but very angry. And Green just looks plain SCARED, but trying to hold strong.

There's a few panels of the black ooze, and it forming into a humanoid shape. We then finally see Dark Link emerge in their "true" form, or the form we all know them as, taking the form of a Link, in this case, Wild, but all sludge-y, all an ebony mockery of what the entire Chain stands for.

"...I think you all cross that line too many times. It's about time I finished him off in there," they finally say.

However, I want to go a step further. We've only ever seen Dink brutally attacking the others with various monsters and disguised as a monster. This is their defining moment as a solo villain, the BIG REVEAL. I don't want an immediate fight scene.

I want to see Dink try to REASON with them, to show they're an INTELLIGENT villain. I want to see them try to plead with the Chain, bargain for the opportunity to finish Twilight off, maybe even try to MANIPULATE them.

"Don't you think your brother in arms is in enough pain?" Dink begins to say. "Nothing you've tried to do to heal him has worked, has it? There's a reason for that, you know. Some wounds are simply too grave, too filled with malice to ever truly heal. Do you want to keep him bleeding out as long as possible, in immense pain until he finally dies with a whimper, far too late for it to ever be considered peaceful? When a beast like him is suffering... You put it out of its misery. I will make it quick and painless if you just let me in there."

"Sometimes, if you love something... You let it go with what dignity it has left," he finishes.

And the Chain present all CONSIDER it for a moment. He's not talking out of his ASS, and there's perhaps some part, the part that wavered when the Life spell didn't work before Hyrule stubbornly wanted to try again, that is wondering if there's nothing more to do but make Twilight comfortable and wait.

But it doesn't last long before the Colors push back the obsidian sword crossing their own with an angry cry.

"...I guess we're doing this the hard way, then," Dink finally says, before the fight truly begins.

[ask-the-jazz-age-trio]

Hello, hope you all have been having a good day, I was wondering how each prefers there coffee, black, shuger, ex?

Hello! I hope you don’t mind but I decided to answer your ask with a fanfic! It’s near the beginning, but I can bold your answer for you! Thanks for sending the ask! You���re my first one! -Lore)

Lithuania’s Birthday 1926

Lithuania woke up that morning to a shy knock on his door. He smiled, knowing by now what that meant. “Come in...” It was his birthday and America had taken it to be a bit of a tradition he make breakfast in bed for him.

America opened the door, as excited as he was he tried not to startle Lithuania as a habit from how skittish he was when he first came to him.

“Morning! Happy birthday!” His grin was infectious as he carried in a tray, full of pancakes and bacon, and coffee just the way he liked it, with a good pour of creame and at least a tablespoon or two of Sugar.

America had a sweet tooth and took his coffee the same way, Romano on the other hand was actually quite particular about his coffee beans and blends and drank it black.

Lithuania chuckled as he sat up in bed and pat the spot next to him for America to join him, “It looks wonderful, America you’re too kind, really.”

America made a pfft sound as he set the tray down before Lithuania and sat next to him on the bed, “don’t even worry about it, I’m always happy to! Your birthday only comes once a year right? You gotta make the most of it!”

Lithuania knew America was fully aware of Lithuania being an old man, but America just carried a wild youthful energy that still looked forward to such things, it was refreshing to see. He brought the coffee to his lips and looked over as America sat next to him, “I suppose, so Mr. America, do I get to know your plans or be surprised this year?”

America looked a bit mischievous, “it’s a surprise, but I think you’re gonna love it.”

Lithuania grinned as he remembered each year how America made his birthday a big deal. Romano would have to get used to that too, “Do I get any hints?”

America shook his head no, “haha no way! You guess it everytime I tell you anything!”

Lithuania laughed playfully after swallowing a bite of Maple syrup drenched pancakes, “It was a lucky three guesses”

America nodded “yeah, out of five years! I caught on to you” he teased, “you’re not getting any hints”

Lithuania was tempted to pry it out of him, but he knew America was bad at keeping secrets, he would slip up eventually. America liked to give him mysteries and things to ponder over, it was a game between them. And Birthdays were definitely a great excuse for a surprise! Lithuania ate more of his food as America began to go off, “Romano is coming too, we have got to make this day the berries! But like, hey Lithuania... I want to ask you something.”

Lithuania looked a bit like a hamster with his mouth full of an unchewed bite of pancake, he tilted his head and made a “hmm?” Sound.

America looked to the side, “uh, well...” he started “was there anything you actually wanted for your birthday? I know it’s a bit late and maybe kinda weird to ask, but”

Lithuania took his hand into his own, and shook his head no as he swallowed the bite, “it’s not weird, and I appreciate you asking, but really, you doing something like this for me each year is more than I could ask for. I’m glad to just be spending time with you here, and be in the moment. I... haven’t known peace like I do here in a long time, so thank you Mr. America.”

America regained his cocky grin “Of course! It’s nothing for a hero like me!” However America felt his heart flutter, Lithuania truly was happy to be here with him. He’d never admit to his insecurities, but Lithuania seemed to put them to rest. As much as he wanted to stay here, holding Lithuania’s hand longer he still had stuff to do to get ready. “Anyways, I’m gonna go get everything packed k? You’re not lifting a finger!”

Lithuania gave a playful huff, “Whatever you say Sir” he laughed softly as America got up and left the room. Lithuania’s smile fell away once he was gone.He never did stay in one place long, but nonetheless Lithuania missed America’s company already. He blushed some missing the feeling of his hand in his, but shook the thought away. It wasn’t appropriate to consider America anything but his boss and at most friend.

He finished breakfast peacefully and dressed up in what America insisted was the latest fashion in his home. Lithuania smiled softly remembering how he barely had anything coming to America, but when his new boss saw that he insisted on getting him some clothes and practically tried to deck out his guest room for him. Lithuania had no idea how to handle such generosity and tried to insist on not buying much and that he’d pay him back later, but America waved him off. It was startling that anyone could call America selfish when he’d do such a thing for me without a thought.

It was mid day when America said they out to be leaving, around 4:00 pm to head into town. Lithuania spent the car ride in the passenger seat.

“So Romano, do you know where we’re going?” Lithuania asked him to playfully set America on edge.

Romano smirked, “maybe, but you’re not getting anything out of me.” He was not immune to wanting to tease and mess with Lithuania.

America grinned “Romano,”

Romano shot America a look “no no, don’t get sappy with me Cheeseburger Bastard, focus on your driving!”

America laughed, “oh come on! You act like I’m gonna crash the car in the time it takes to appreciate you!” But regardless he didn’t look away from the road.

Romano looked out the window, “I’m just trying to mess with Lithuania, don’t” he tried to hide a small smile at America’s words, “dumbass”

America chuckled and blew it off, kind of used to the attitude Romano held. He didn’t take it personally, just sorta accepted Romano was weird about compliments, but that only made America want to give them more.

Lithuania quietly enjoyed the scene, watching the streets pass by.

They arrived at an open air park, there it looked like a band was prepared to play. Lithuania looked at America questioningly, did he intend to swing dance? But surely America was aware of the social climate-

That was when a couple men walked by holding hands and Lithuania looked up at America who grinned back at him with glee.

“This place is.... pretty open minded, lots of different kinds of people” America grinned.

Lithuania smiled, knowing this meant they could have a night out without having to worry about society imposing laws and rules onto their relationships and who they are. Tonight he was free to just Dance. He could dance with whomever he pleases. And it was very like America to focus on freedom to just be yourself.

Romano grabbed walked up to a stand selling drinks and began to chat up the bartender as the band started to play again. America held his hand out, “Can I have the first dance?”

The rest you could imagine. It was most definitely a fun birthday.

(I most definitely wrote this all as an impulse, hope y’all like it)

[a-writing-bear]

[AmeriPan - Permission To Date]

This is a Request fic written for @lonelymarblesoda !

Note: I am so very flattered by your sweet compliments! I hope you enjoy this fic as much as I did writing it. It was a great stress reliever for me and your prompt was very cute that I got carried away with fluff honestly <3 Sorry there’s more dialogue than intended!

Ao3 Link: 

https://archiveofourown.org/works/16009922

This Has been cross-posted onto FF & Ao3 under Aliases: BearBooper

You can read this Fic on Tumblr under ‘Keep Reading’

Fandom: Hetalia Axis Powers

Pairing: America and Japan

Word Count: 2,742

Age Rating/Mature:  All Audiences :)

Prompt:  “Howdy, I'm the anon from earlier! Sorry for being shy (^^;) Since you're still taking requests, I was wondering if you were willing to do a fluffy ameripan fanfic where their relationship is revealed at a world meeting (or something along those lines)? Ψ(´▽｀)Ψ”

With an exhausted sigh and soft smile, Alfred pulled into the driveway of his Virginia home; the ignition silencing as he crossed his arms and rested his head on the now-still driving wheel, gazing upon his tall red brick house. Amused at the pristine garden and the open porch - This was another estate that his Government had preened and made proper, All the way to a point where it almost looked too perfect off a pamphlet. Unlike his apartment in New York, this house had been filled with some sort of personalisation yet Alfred still felt no completeness towards it. Alexandria was an old but beautiful charming town and it felt fitting to have his work home so close to DC. It was embarrassing to admit its old Victorian real estate made him feel much calmer compared to other parts of the city, A piece of his past residing within the restored cobbled paths.

His little thoughts drifted away as he slowly got out the car, humming to himself. It was a short drive back from work and after a long day of going over tomorrow's preparations made him gutsy and giddy. Tomorrow he'd have to fly into New York for a UN Personification meeting - undoubtedly with the expectation to make some more pesky deals and fix it what was going on with discussions of some new global catastrophes. Ah. One more look at his front door he delved into the wish he was a normal person. He wouldn't have to deal with such messes if that were the case.

However, he thought as he jammed his key into the mahogany door, there was one good thing about having a meeting tomorrow...

"Hey, I'm home!" His voice rang out loudly and through the living room doorway he heard a ruffling and a quieter voice muffled through what he assumed was a pillow.

"Welcome home.." Whenever they had a New York UN meetup, Kiku had an excuse to come over early and spend some more couple time. They weren't exactly the conventional couple who could enjoy each other's company constantly but he supposed this was enough. He wouldn't want to take Japan away from his livelihood anyway.

The blond padded his way to the living room after shedding his coat and shuffling off his boots. His smile growing wider as he finds Kiku lazing around on the comfy couch in his bright red sweats with Pochi on his chest. Plopping down onto the couch, nearly on the Japanese man's legs, He pulled Pochi off carefully. The hairy creature wriggling in his arms huffed as he released it onto the floor; Obviously, Pochi was not as excited to see him as the creature scampered off somewhere further into the house. Kiku had insisted on bringing his dog over as it would whimper without him. America Leaned down, almost tipping over to lay on his boyfriend.

"Have you been laying here all day Keeks?" locks of hairs splayed onto the shorter man's shirt as Alfred squirmed his way to lie down beside him- it was quite cramped and a miracle he didn't push Japan straight off his tiny couch.

Kiku opened his eyes, the charcoal eyes seemed to dull as he stared unamused at the man who had wormed his arms onto him. Kiku never really was that good with cuddling but he made compromises for his affectionate American lover.

"No. I did work for tomorrow and called the embassy to forward some papers back to Japan," he whispered as he craned his head over to Alfred's face. The two basked in each other’s embrace for a while as the American sneaked in a few kisses while talking about their days, Japan lamenting the lack of interesting tv shows to watch and Alfred venting about the new intern who spilt coffee in his office. Comfort hung in the air happily.

The two spent the evening packing up work papers and tapping away at tiny shiny laptops, documents astray across the bed in preparation for tomorrow. Alfred had just finished and settled under his comforter while watching Keeks still typing away, legs crossed on the blanket and brow furrowed in concentration when it hit him.

He hadn’t told any of his closest allies about his newfound relationship (well- newly established, he and Keeks had been dancing around each other for centuries). Should he be freaking out over this detail? In terms of relationship milestones, Immortals such as them had very few; living long left very little opportunities for firsts and to be honest getting a stable relationship wasn't a thing people like them did. He'd admit, he was the one who would make a deal out of these sorta events whereas Japan was more reserved of their close relationship. Alfred gulped, thinking hard whether or not it was necessary to say the words that were already spilling from his lips

"Can I tell Matthew about us?" clicking and clacking came to a halt and Kiku had looked up but still ahead, gazing at the painting opposite him hanging loosely on the wall - some Italian painting obviously gifted by Feli. America felt disappointed all of a sudden, letting out a breath he didn't realise he had captured. Maybe he should have left the topic for another day. A few seconds later Kiku had resumed typing on what looked like some new policy proposal and with absently minded disinterest had replied with so much but a passing glance.

"He already knows Al.” voice slightly airy with cocky amusement as Alfred spluttered and shifted in the shared bed. Kiku suddenly felt uncomfortable as he felt cerulean blue depths bury themselves into his back; shutting his laptop and discarding it on the bedside table he fell backwards onto the feather pillow next to his boyfriend - the word felt foreign on his tongue (A bit immature? Boyfriend sounded kiddy.). For a while, they exchanged nothing but awkward glances before Alfred caved and intertwined his palm with Kiku’s.

“You know I’m traditional. I had to ask him if he would all-”

“You asked my brother if you had permission to date me?!” Kiku’s blank face did nothing but Make Alfred laugh even harder. “Kiku. We aren’t like- we aren’t teenagers. I’m literally hundreds of years old, fuck your Millions-” the black haired man shrunk further into the bed in annoyance of his age and quickly pushed a pillow between himself and his cackling lover.

“It’s how I do things. It’s polite and you're brother was kind about it. Did he not tell you?” Alfred threw the pillow barrier towards the bottom of the bed before scooting over closer to the Japanese man, who was getting more embarrassed and flustered by the minute.

“Nah. Mattie knows when there are times I don’t need to know things. I’m surprised that’s all.” he felt breathlessly in love and voiceless with contentedness at the other nation’s admission. It felt oddly nice to be…’courted’ in such an old way. “Besides, If anything, I expected you to bring it up with old man Artie or even Francis…”

Kiku turned, puzzled expression painted prettily on his face- which was only inches away from Alfred’s. “...I’m not marrying you. Why would I ask Mr Eng-”

A pillow cut him off unexpectedly as Alfred nearly fell off the bed in complete hilarity. Kiku was about to pout and say something more. With a few attempts at explaining why there was no point to marriage due to their immortality, Kiku floundered. As he peeked over the edge of where America had fallen off, he himself broke into a small smile. Alfred’s glasses had gone askew and were currently red in the face from the overexerting giggles. As the pair quieted down for the night they felt secure; Tomorrow would be fine, for now, America just wanted a cuddle.

Alfred’s feet tapped violently as he basically bounced off each step of his creaky staircase. Bounding off into the kitchen to pack some last minutes notes he had left on a table. He shouted out impatiently:

“KEEKS COME ON! WE’VE GOT TO GET TO NEW YORK!” he was in a complete flurry as he zoomed around, enthusiastic and frantic to get to their private plane on time- his bosses would skewer him if he delayed any longer, and no doubt Japan’s embassy would be in a fit if he were late too.

Speaking of the Asian nation, the man himself with all the grace and peace in the world came down. Dressed in a western style suit, Kiku readjusted his red tie and tutted himself for his messy morning hair, stoic glance nitpicking every corner of his newly tailored clothes. At the sight of Kiku’s very neat and smart look, Alfred swooned a little, puppy eyes widening as he quickly stole a kiss - which was received with a red face and another ‘tsch’ of shyness - before pushing his cute partner out the door and practically throwing both their briefcases into the car. The plane ride was uneventful and even when the planes kissed the clouds the only view that captivated the Alfred was the silly way Kiku had tried to keep himself occupied; sudoku books were the way to go apparently.

As the other nations began to file in, one by one, Alfred appeased his boss’s anxiety by greeting them all, including old-time allies such as the NATO nations and even the newer ambassadors. Japan had been lost in the mix, both had agreed to carry on as if they had entered separately - not because they didn’t want to show off, but instead to avoid making it difficult to sort out guest arrangements. Alfred fiddled with his watch as he made his own way to the front of the table. Familiar faces filled the large room. England had already buried his desk area with paper as France somehow charmed an admin into getting him a coffee. One look at the other end and he witness Germany scribbling incessantly and the myriad of eastern Europeans personifications huddled up avoiding the Russian. Witnessing Denmark and Sweden already debating on new guidelines, Alfred gulped. It was going to be a tiring day.

Talk after talk, speech and updates floated by and although his hands were writing his notes and his voice kept him engaged in conversation, his heart had decided to tether his brain to the thought of Kiku. The beauty who was sitting on his left. Already Kiku had resigned himself to a conversation between China and South Korea and was looking adequately bored over the talk of generic ocean trade talks. Coughing as inconspicuously as possible Alfred signalled to his partner and took his hand under the table, smoothing his thumb to reassure him of the time not being wasted. Both had shuffled in the movement and although Alfred was rambling on in response to something Arthur had spoken, the ever diligent Matthew noticed such a carelessly romantic gesture. Canada had been seated on Alfred’s right, and with only a second to glance at what had occurred he snorted and rolled his eyes before nudging his brother in utter glee. He was happy his overly ambitious brother found something as calming as a relationship for his very hectic lifestyle.

Matthew whispered to his brother and bordering Ally, “Congrats Alfie, however, If you think you’re being smooth you’re- as usual- idiotic.”

“You’re just jealous Gilbert is stuck in Germany holding the fort. Anyway, when were you gonna tell me Japan asked you for permission huh?t” with a shrug and a  kick to his knee under the table the two merely laughed it off, Francis and Arthur were confused at the NA brothers sudden cheeriness. Noticing this, Kiku turned to his secret partner, squeezing his hand tight enough that Alfred nearly yipped when he went to turn to him:

“I’m not sure if your conversation with Matthew-san is appropriate right now.” Matthew gave a sheepish glance as if to say sorry but suddenly just as the 3 of them tried to get back to task Francis had enough of missing out on a joke before quizzically pushing in to ask rather loudly.

“May I know what was not appropriate? It’s rude to leave friends out of a conversation is it not?” next to him even the Englishman nodded, interested in what was going on and before Alfred could deflect he hear a subtle Japanese swear roll of Kiku’s breath and something he thought he’d never hear even within his long-ass lifetime:

“I was telling Matthew how my relationship with Alfred was not of matter as of this moment.”

The room fell into silence. America’s suit felt too tight and he was unsure if it was the nerves of so many countries falling to a standstill or if it was his heart pumping way too hard after hearing Kiku practically announce out their very private relations. In a bit of shock, Alfred had stood up hastily, but his laced hands with Kiku dragged the Japanese delegation up with him- making the situation look even more entertainingly obvious. With a loud slap on the table, Arthur pushed his chair out and stood up as well, the man had a very irked expression.

“How did you tell Matthew about this before me?!” At this point Francis had broken out into a wide mouth smile, still seated and leaned his head onto England’s hip while trying to soothe the seething British man with a couple pats on the back. The long-haired Frenchman calmed Arthur down, chattering away about the etiquette of young love and it’s failure to respect their elders. For once in his lifetime, it almost seemed like Arthur and Francis were a couple of genuine parents lamenting over a son who had eloped without any contact. They all sat down slowly and Kiku had already turned to sort out the gaping look from his Asian counterparts. The conversation ceased to exist as the situation dissolved back into the murmurs of the nations. Soon, the conference ended and as each country left with a joyful congratulatory smile over fruitful debate and strong handshakes with closed deals. Even his least friendly connections gave him a note of thanks and wishes for the best. He saw Arthur and Francis alongside Matthew gathering in one corner of the now empty room, whereas Kiku was purposely packing away at a snail’s pace, stalling till Alfred came over.

“Keeks. You didn’t….why did you do that?”

“It’s not a secret. You said you wanted me to tell your former mentors Alfred. They have a right to know.” The American squished the smaller man into a close hug and a chaste kiss on the forehead before hearing a distinct “ahem”. Shaking Kiku’s hand firmly, Arthur looked Japan up and down before smiling uncharacteristically and pulling him into a hug- catching an unaware Japan quite well. Granted he had known England for while but he never knew he would be greeted with such glee and care. France had given Kiku some good pats and a big hug before chanting some famous French proverb and singing a dilly-dallying rendition of “la vie en rose” much to England and Canada’s despair. The other NA brother merely nodded proudly at Kiku and the short man appreciated that; he had enough hugs for today honestly.

Meekly he commented, already pulled close by a bashful Alfred, “I hope this won't interfere any deals in the future, Mr England and Mr France.” but his serious tone was met with only more exhilarated kindness.

“Enough with formalities for now. Of Course not Kiku. Here we are no longer Countries but ourselves. It is not America and Japan who are together in the way Alfred and Kiku are. Don’t let work change that.” Not really understanding but still thankful for the sentiment, the couple bid the 3 other men off and hopped back onto a plane. This time it was bound for Japan, and Alfred had already packed a bag and Pochi was already running down the walkway of the plane. The 2 sat patiently together on the flight, bathing in each other’s solitude before being interrupted by Japan’s phone dinging erratically- Yao had been calling.

So much for being quiet about things, Alfred Mused as his now public boyfriend fumbled to pick up the call. He only hoped China didn’t mind that he never ask for permission to date Kiku.

Oh well.

[purpleswans1]

My Favorite Hidden Anime Gems

I’ve been watching Anime for several years now, and I’ve watched a lot of really good series (and a couple of bad ones). Among them are some series that are a lot of great series that I believe don’t get the attention and following they deserve. Some of them may be more popular than I realize, or they were popular a while ago and just faded over time. But all of them are, in my personal opinion, definitely worth a watch.

Quick note: I tried to put down why I believe some of these shows aren’t as popular. More than one of them is because the original material comes form Light Novels, which aren’t a readily available to the western fans as manga and anime, which alienates those fans since they believe they are missing some of the story.

Now, on with the list:

1. Kemono no Souja Erin (Beast Player Erin)

I can’t express to you how much I love this show. The best way I can summarize it without giving to many spoilers is that it’s a coming of age story about a girl who wants to be a beast-veterinarian like her mother, and follows her as she grows up That doesn’t really go into the juicy bits though. It has strong women in positions of power and male-dominated fields, brilliant world building, and the main focus is on the relationship between mothers and their children. It’s very refreshing, and I think tumblr would love this.

Now this one actually has a lot of reasons why it is less known. First of all, the original source is a light novel. In addition, the anime’s art style is much more simplistic than most anime a fans are used to. Finally, although the plot is entertaining for all ages, the show is actually geared towards kids. As anyone who’s watched Gravity Falls or Steven Universe will tell you, this doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. This does mean though, that the audience that it’s intended for doesn’t have easy access to it. That being said, I definitely suggest that people watch this.

2. Saiunkoku Monogatari (The Story of Saiunkoku)

This one is a court romance, and a really great one at that. The story begins about a sensible girl who is asked to turn the king of her country into a decent ruler by becoming his wife, but the story grows into something greater, focusing on politics, the magic of the kingdom’s origin, and the girl’s dream of becoming a court official. There are several well-done female characters, some who take on traditional feminine roles and some who want to be in male-dominated fields. There’s a little bit of a reverse harem situation going on, but the main character is well-rounded and most of the boys are just supporting from a distance. the main focus ends up being on the political drama rather than just the romance.

The animation is a little old, and the original story is from a light novel. In addition, I suspect that the second season ends before the ending of the light novels so we still have some unresolved business that we’d have to track down the light novels to find out. One of these days I’m going to find and read them. Still, this is definitely worth it!

3. Zetsuen no Tempest (The Civilization Blaster, Blast of Tempest)

Okay, I’ll admit that this one is a little weird, and completely shifts narratives halfway through (which, now that I think about it, happens in several anime I know) but is still worth the watch. I swear the two main guys are kind of psychopaths, but they’re also very real and their relationship is a very interesting take on friendship and complex relationships. The story is set in a world where everything in civilization starts being devoured and people are dying, but these two guys get roped into helping a witch trapped on an island save the world because she promised to help them get revenge for the one guy’s sister. It’s also full of dialogue and plot references to William Shakespeare’s works (especially “Hamlet” and “The Tempest”) and who doesn’t love a good reference to the bard?

I… really don’t know why this anime isn’t that popular. Other than the narrative being a little confusing at times and some of the characterizations being incredibly unique (i.e. not cliches) It’s a really good anime, and you guys should check it out.

4. Guilty Crown

Okay guys, I’ll be honest with you: the first time I discovered this anime (back when my experience consisted mostly of Inuyasha and Code Geass) I described it as a Code Geass fanfic with a slightly altered preface. Which… really isn’t what it is at all. There are still some similarities though. The actual story is about a world where japan was decimated by an Apocalypse virus and has become entirely dependent on foreign aid, making it into a kind of military state. People are oppressed, so a terrorist group forms and a certain socially awkward boy gets a special power that was intended for the terrorist, and he gets roped into joining them. It has a lot of interesting characters and characterization, since part of the boy’s power is to reveal people’s hearts in physical form.

I’m not sure why this one isn’t very popular, other than having several troupes that are in other shows. If I had to guess, it might be related to how he narrative changes halfway, and how I swear the thing must have been funded by the band Egoist considering how much they are referenced in the show.

5. Seirei no Moribito

Oh man, this one… *deep breath* The main character is a spear wielding woman bodyguard in her 30s. She is tasked with protecting an adolescent prince, who after being infected with a magic egg (more significant than it sounds) is being attacked by his own country. They end up forming a mother/son bond over the course of the story and that is the main relationship focus. Oh, and the woman has a love interest who’s basically a healer with some mystic abilities, and they are so not subtle about the reversed gender roles.

The story is based on a light novel series by the same author as Kemono no Souja Erin. However, it only tells the story of the first book, so we end up with a well put-together story and maybe potential for season 2? someday? *goes and cries in a corner because that would be amazing*

6. Shiki

Kudos to @quasiplatonickarinhina for introducing me to this.

Okay, so you know how Twilight spurred a rise in popularity for vampire stories? Only, instead of being the Anne Rice and Bram Stoker bloodsucking-monster variety, they became excessively romantic good guys? Yeah, this isn’t like those neo-vampire stories.

By any chance, does anyone remember the first season of Supernatural? You know, back before it became a cult-followed soap-opera, and instead was basically a series of rural American horror stories crammed into an hour a week? THAT is what this story is like.

The preface is that a mysterious family moved into a small rural town, and gradually people start dropping dead mysteriously. Things gradually escalate, and the story dives into a lot of heavy psychology with some statements on humanity in desperate situations thrown in. If you like Tokyo Ghoul for the psychological horror, you’ll love this.

The series has a very slow build-up before the climax, so that might be the main reason why it isn’t very popular.

7. Shounen Omnyouji

You know that Abe no Seimei guys that will pop up occasionally in exorcist or historical anime? Well, this is about his grandson, who has resolved to surpass his grandfather as an Omnyouji and finally get out of his shadow.

I should also note that this is probably one of the only shounen protagonists I know of that actually shows respect to his elders and superiors (which probably says a lot more for the general trend of shounen protagonists than anything else, but it’s still refreshing.) Seriously, one of the biggest running gags is that he’s in his room yelling about his grandfather expecting him to do the impossible or having to big of shoes to fill, but he’s still very respectful when he’s actually around the guy.

Also, his love interest is… not annoying? Sorry she’s not really that awesome of a character, but she manages to be a traditional princess and not painful to watch. Which is unusual.

Oh, and there are all these super-powered Shikigami who gradually develop respect for the MC and have their own issues with one another. That’s always cool.

This series was originally a light novel series, and to be honest even I wouldn’t know about it if I hadn’t been looking for a different Omnyouji series. I should warn you though, this one has a kind-of-cliffhanger ending, and I don’t see much indication of a season 2. You can always hunt down the light novels though.

8. Arslan Senki

Not sure whether this anime is unknown enough to be here… No, it does. It hasn’t gotten the following it deserves. The light novel series has been going on for decades and that might part of the reason why the fandom has faded, but the most recent manga adaptation is by the Mangaka behind FMA, and apparently she’s done some changes to the original story. Which is cool.

Also, the whole thing clearly has some thematic and stylistic roots in the Crusades, and that’s got to appeal to western audiences right?

9. Tokyo Ravens

You remember those exorcist anime I mentioned a while ago? Well this is one of them. The short explanation of this series that that it’s about a bunch of high school students studying to be Omnyouji. Which makes it sound a lot like a Japanese Harry Potter, which admittedly it kinda is. Only not. There’s a lot of plot derived from the reincarnation thing and some family politics crossing actual politics.

This is another one where the original source material is a light novel series. It also ends in a sorta-cliffhanger, but I have a bit more hope for a season 2 for this one.

10. Rurouni Kenshin

Okay, this one probably doesn’t need to be on this list since it is still popular, just really OLD so the hype has simmered down, but It needs to come back because WE HAVE A NEW MANGA ARC!!!!! (Can you tell how happy I am?)

Now I could go on and on about how much significance this series has for me personally (I literally discovered online scanlations and the dark web for this series guys) but I’ll spare you the hour-long monologue. Elevator pitch: This is a historical fighting manga with a lot of interesting characters and themes and quite honestly a classic. I’ll admit that there are some issues with the story that weren’t as troubling to high-school-aged me, but overall it’s still a wonderful tale. I mean, the manga inspired a long anime series and 3 live action movies, so that should say something (I feel no urge to watch the OVAs, so let’s not mention them)

11. Silver Spoon (Gin no Saji)

Okay, I’ll be the first to admit that i usually am not attracted to slice of life stories. But a friend recommended this series to me and mentioned it was one of Arakawa’s mangas, so I decided to check it out. A decision I do not regret. The basic plot has to do with a city boy who decided to go to an agriculture high school. Its chock full of culture shock, interesting characters, and a realistic take on the agricultural industry. I identify with this story on a personal level, both because i grew up in a rural area and know how some of the agriculture stuff works and also because the MC is searching for a direction after loosing his “dream.”

Like I said, this series is a slice of life, which generally doesn’t get as much attention as the action-adventure stories.

Got any other animes you think deserve a larger following than they currently have? Feel free to recommend them to me!

[againjack]

Once upon a dream

Colby ended up back in town Wednesday due to the car drama. We had chatted about seeing a movie, and had feared it would be leaving theaters soon. So while neither of us HAD to see the other that evening, and I had confirmed the movie would be around at least another week or so, he really wanted to get together. I was supposed to be in a meeting, but figured I wasn’t necessary and skipped it. 

He met me at the door with a big hug and lovely kiss. Oh how I had missed him, and he clearly missed me. At that point it was two weeks and a day since we had last seen each other. 

We chilled and talked for a bit after I put some groceries away that I had picked up on the way to his place away. (More nesting on my part - ensuring I have breakfast as well as salty and sweet snacks at his place. I also picked up a few things he had asked me to, since he literally had gotten back two hours before hand and I had offered.) He was clearly exhausted and sorta surprised when I snuggled up to him like a cat, conforming to how he was sitting. I was surprised that he didn’t share his dramas, since he had alluded to them at various points either via text/chat/phone conversations. 

When he decided we should head to the theater he asked me to drive, since after 5 hours he was done.:P I complied. He was amused at how I cleaned out the front seat from dog and random other stuff. Even being tired he was a good navigator, since he wanted me to go a specific way. This bodes well for whenever we do a road trip together. (Note: aka checklist item for long term potential.) 

While in line for popcorn, because he insists on it and was shocked I avoid it, we had some interesting discussions. I mentioned how I had told my parents about him based upon our discussions at the french restaurant. He wasn’t sure what I was referring to. I was all awkward and said that I must be one of those women who reads into things too much, but standing in line with people all around us was not the time or place to have that discussion. 

We had some very interesting discussions about the movie afterwards. It was nice to have such a varied and in depth analysis with so many references that we both understood. It was nice to have such an intellectual discussion with a hint of silliness. It was... awesome. An item on my long term potential checklist I didn’t know I had and needed. An item that was placed there from my exhusband who set a high bar there. :P

Back at his place we had dinner. We sat and chatted for a bit, he putzed at something while I nuked the casserole. It felt lopsided and very traditional gender roles. Dinner wasn’t anything that stood out from our conversation. After dinner he just sat there and chatted at me while I began to clean up. I started to feel resentful that it felt like more gender stereotype roles. He did eventually bring his own dishes in and took care of them. This is definitely a point to discuss in the (near) future. 

We walked his dog and I commented about an email I had sent earlier. I am trying to “manage” him, like one would with your boss at work - present options or situations ahead of time to give them time to think things through and be ready to make a plan/decision/action when the time comes. This email was about my birthday in two weeks. The email was that I wasn’t sure if he had made note of it when it was brought up off hand months ago. That I wasn’t expecting anything from him (except maybe a card.) That I know he has a lot on his plate and unknowns (like he has to go back to SC to pick up his car if it is repaired.) But I wanted to make plans and wanted to know IF he had any ideas or wanted me to be available for him to do something with. That way if he couldn’t/didn’t it was ok and I could make other plans. He said he had scanned it and was thinking about it. He said he appreciated my ‘managing’ him.

He was putzing some more after walking the dog, so I pulled out the book I am studying to make notecards as part of my study process. After a few minutes he noticed and seemed taken aback. I told him that I expected he would focus on things, so I brought something to do in the mean time. He knows my test is coming up (exactly a month from today!) and that I’ve got a lot of responsibility with work and my synagogue in the next few weeks as well. I told him that I understand how present he is when with me, and I want to give him the same. That I only wanted to do the cards while he was busy with something else. He said he understood but gave an air of being disappointed and maybe hurt.  He went upstairs to get ready for bed. 

I finished the card I was on, then grabbed a different book and notebook for notes so I could read while he got ready. He was unpacking his bag while I read, and he tossed something at me while he walked to the bathroom. I looked up confused. He said that it was sort of an early birthday present. I blinked and asked him if he wanted me to open it then or to wait - he said it was up to me. (At this point I was wondering if this was my only gift from him or if it was a prelude. I also wonder if it was meant to be something else but due to the bday talk earlier he decided to call it that. :\ ) 

I decided to open it right then, since I feel it is important to open a gift from someone in front of them and I wasn’t sure if we would be together on my bday or not. It was a beautiful scarf. Hand dyed indigo cotton scarf. So soft and beautiful. He had left the price tag on it, and it was way more than I would have paid - even being artisan and expensive materials.:P But that is the definition of a gift, right? Something you want but wouldn’t buy for yourself. 

It was funny how after that we discussed why he chose that one over other patterns - like one too polkadoty, another being very tallis like... He was obviously pleased with my reaction. 

Part of why I wonder about if it was intended as a bday gift or for that evening was he seemed miffed that I was studying/reading rather than puppy dog following him around with him as my sole attention. Part of our conversation after I thanked him and was playing with the scarf he said some very interesting things. He thanked me for sticking by him the past few months that his life was way more crazy than normal. He showed in his voice, face, and mannerisms that it meant a lot to him and he felt it was special and rare. That he didn’t expect it and was surprised and values that. I joked how I have the patience of a saint, and told him how awesome and special he is and what I think we have together is. I focused more on him than us. I feel like he is getting closer to saying he loves me, and I’m not sure if what I say/do encourages or pushes that away. 

On the radio the other day was a discussion about a study about when in a relationship people say I love you for the first time. Most people it is an even split between the first week or at the 3 month mark. Only 5% took longer than three months. It really made me think about how I am and when I say it, as well as when my previous partners have said it. The whole world (that reads this or talks to me) knows how I fell in love instantly with Colby and it has only deepened and become more real over time. (The radio personalities reacted like most people that if someone says I love you in the first week it is a huge red flag and to run! So I am glad that while I have felt that way I haven’t said it.) It has been over three months since we met, and we are 10 days from the three months after our first date. I’m really curious when he will say it and it is getting harder for me to wait. I’ve been alluding to it, but occasionally saying things like, “good morning, luv.” 

A part of me is wondering with his being a self proclaimed romantic if he is saving his declaration of love - or sex - for my birthday. Being a romantic myself, and being that the first time is special, I think we are on the same wavelength. Of course, I could just be building castles in the clouds. 

When he laid down he said the light didn’t bother him, but it clearly did. So I gave up on reading and snuggled up with him. It was clear he missed that, even though he didn’t say anything.  While snuggled up before he fell asleep I joked that he is off the hook for cake and flowers (that I had mentioned in the email as suggestions for my bday.) More of how I think he missed me, when I rolled over to my side of the (king sized bed) because he kept moving (while sound asleep) to be closer to me or to touch me (his foot to my leg, his back to my side/back...) He hasn’t moved to the middle of the bed like that before. 

In the morning he noticed and seemed to like that I was wearing the scarf. He also was clearly having trouble with the idea of us parting ways for work. He was still on island time and thinking he was on vacation, wanting to just take his time and chill with me. :)

We have chatted a lot more through the days. Probably both because I gave him a stern but lightish poke about going days without contact again, as well as now that he was back to normal and not on vacation and with family I reached out more. I found myself wrapping the scarf around my shoulders, like a pashmina/shawl, and pulling it tight, imagining it was him hugging/holding me. I decided to be a romantic dork and told him that, his response was a smile. Since he is such a romantic I know he really appreciated that thought and that I told him too. 

We don’t have plans of when to see each other next, but I feel no worries right now. I am still on the Colby-high though. :P 

Today while chatting he sent me a link about Harry Potter erotica. (An article about a guy who thought he bought the series to read when instead he bought erotic fanfic and had no clue until talking to a friend about book 5. Hilarious article and I really want to read that fanfic series. lol) I told him I wanted to read it, and told him that he isn’t helping with my keeping at his pace - that I was turned on and really wanted him. I took it a bit further, saying how was naturally extra horny due to being midcycle, though it would be hard for him to know since I have a consistently high appetite. lol (Sorta to explain why I playfully bit his ear Wednesday night. >><<) 

I feel like we have slipped a wee bit deeper into being a couple and being comfortable with each other. I feel a bit more solid about how he feels and what I mean to him.