#trial 1

[12below-milgram]

"...to take interest in me and listen to what I have to say.. For some reason, it made me happy."

⚖️🫧 T1 001 - 3/18/2025 (PST)

Thumbnail Art: @kumorishouhei - sketch & final edits / JROX - lineart & color

[kumorishouhei]

I thought it might be fun to share some behind the scenes work from 12Below's Haruka VD thumbnail now that the video has been out for a bit. The whole process was pretty fun and might be something some people may be interested in. :3

Started with a rough sketch

Spruced it up a bit and turned the sketch into a genga / cel shading guide (my first time trying this method, so it was interesting to put together.)

Handed the sketch off to Jrox for lineart & color

He handed it back to me for some final touches and background.

Ta-da~ .w. It was our first time Jrox and I did an art collab together and I think it turned out well.

[septgram]

here's our list of characters and their t1 profiles to start things off!! there's only 6 of them bc if i had to do 10 of everything i'd blow up. the first story-post will be out soon:)

[elysium-the-true-faceofsalvation]

Trial 1- Soul N.05 Verdict

(The lineart was done my amazing friend @7-4-n who's an amazing artist)

[sethfuss]

10/31/24 LANDMARK INKTOBER

Honestly not one of my favorites. I could not get it out of my mind of a landmark case, and having just drawn the rabbit I was in the mood for clothed animals.

[heartfeltgram]

𝟎𝟎𝟑 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐂 𝟏 — 𝐆𝐄𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐍𝐀

Song: Gehenna (wotaku ft. Hatsune Miku)

Key: Lyrics in blue, romaji in bold, descriptions in black

CWS: Sui ideation, visuals of drowning, choking, pregnancy, blood, death, child death, implied attempted suicide.

[ During the instrumental intro, we see Ryuko sitting up in bed, holding her head. She turns and looks at a photo of a black-haired man sitting on the bedside table as the camera focuses on it. ]

Hey, how are you? How's it going? naa genki? choushi wa dou dai?

Yeah, well, I've quit that kind of thing already aa mou ne sou iu no yametan da

Yeah, well, I hear there's no prospect of recovery anymore un nanka mou kaifuku no mikomi wa nai sou nanda

Don't ask me anything nani mo kikanaide kure

[ Ryuko is on the phone with someone, talking away during these lyrics. On the second line, her smile turns to a frown. She moves from a sitting position to a lying-down position as she’s talking, crossing one leg over the other on the sofa. ]

Regret, estimation, a friendly talk koukai nebumi danshoukai

Caregiving, joy, sharing? I surrender all kaigo etsu kyouyuu mo sarendaa da

Yes, that's right, 100% it was my fault hai sou desu shoushinshoumei boku no sei datta

The typical story yoku aru hanashi

[ Ryuko looks down at her child, who is sitting on the floor, playing with dolls and not paying attention. During the final line, her expression darkens as she stares down at the ground, the background flashing red for a few seconds. ]

I wanted to realize plain and simple tanjunmeikai o mono ni shitakute

Killing the ideal of what it's supposed to be kaku arubeki to iu risou o koroshite

[ A shot of Ryuko and the man from the picture walking together, arms interlocked, with smiles on their faces. The sunlight quickly turns to night, and the man’s expression switches to a rather sinister one as he turns to look at Ryuko. ]

I've had it enough. I don't have the courage to leave mou sanzan datte nigeru yuuki mo nai

Hurry, deeper, falling hayaku motto ochite

[ We flash to present Ryuko, who is shaking her head aggressively. In the second line, she’s shown drowning in dark water, images of happy memories with the man playing in the background as the drowning woman hides her face in shame. ]

"I want to stay alive" "ikite itai yo"

Evеry night, transparent summary suffocates my throat maiyo nodo o fusagu toumei no gaiyou

[ The scenes in the background flash to darker imagery, bad memories Ryuko had with the man. The background begins to flash red as if splattered with blood. Ryuko’s hands move from her face to her throat as if choking herself. ]

The rеality that caves in my lungs hai o mushibamu jitsuzai mo

Irrationality and loneliness, you don't have to hate them rifujin mo kodoku mo uramanakute ii

[ The floating, drowning Ryuko rotates counterclockwise as she curls in on herself, the memories in the background alternating between good and bad memories. ]

They all mean nothing sorera subete imi wa nain da

We all have to live bokura wa ikiru shikanain da

[ We go back to reality, with Ryuko sitting up in bed once more, repeating the scene from the very start of the MV. This time, instead of looking at the picture, she looks straight at the camera with a determined expression. ]

Hey you, how are things? oi omae socchi wa dou dai?

Oh, still, you are doing that aa mada sonna koto yatten da

By the way, what happened to the one you were dating? sou iya tsukiatteta ko to wa dou nattan da?

Don't say anything anymore nani mo iwanaide kure

[ Ryuko is sitting across from a faceless blonde woman at a café, holding an infant in her arms. She’s smiling and chatting away with the other woman. On the third line, her expression darkens and her eyes widen, and on the final line, in a flash of red, the blonde woman is facing a now empty chair, dumbfounded. Where Ryuko once was now lies a puff of vanishing smoke. ]

The future, jealousy, the sense of failure shourai netami haibokukan

Wireless, I can't even hang myself up waiyaresu kubi mo tsurenai na

Yes, delightful, what a profound story hai kyouetsu taihen mi ni shimiru ohanashi deshita

Are you satisfied now? mitasareta kai?

[ Ryuko cradles the child in her arms close to her chest in a black background, red eyes watching her every move. ]

Pitch dark, clouded and broken heart makkuroku nigotte wareta kokoro o

I disinfect with alcohol to sleep arukooru de shoudoku shite nemuru

I become the gloomy water of the big ocean mou antan taru taiga no mizu ni natte

Deeper, deeper, deeper, deeper, falling motto motto motto motto ochite

[ Ryuko falls back into the water, only this time, it’s red. She’s less worried about drowning this time, seemingly apathetic to the situation. She’s still cradling her child close to her. Memories flash in the background, except this time, it’s memories of who she was before meeting the man. ]

"I want to stay alive" "ikite itai yo"

Every night, the air and the future grab my throat maiyo nodo o tsukamu kuuki mo mirai mo

[ One of her hands reaches up to grab at her throat while the other holds her child. The memories in the background are replaced by memories of Ryuko trying to find the man after he disappears. ]

Flesh that deceives to be the organs naizou o kataru nikukai mo

Happiness, the space, you don't have to be skeptical shiawase mo uchuu mo utagawanakute ii

[ The memories in the background show clips of Ryuko’s pregnancy up until the birth of her daughter. Ryuko is rotating counterclockwise like before. Her arm returns to its place of holding her daughter. ]

They all don't change sorera subete kawaranain da

We all don't have to know bokura wa shiranakute iin da

[ We see the Ryuko in reality holding a paper and looking over at her child. ]

"I want to stay alive" "ikite itai yo"

I don't know why, but "I want to stay alive" nande ka wakaranai kedo "ikite itai yo"

[ The drowning Ryuko switches the direction she’s rotating in. ]

The Bible called DNA DNA to iu seisho

You don't have to hate on your instinct and fears honnou mo kyoufu mo uramanakute ii

Nothing will ever change douse nani mo kawaranain da

[ The memories change to one singular image of the man’s grinning face in every bubble as the child disappears in a puff of smoke from Ryuko’s arms as the background turns black. As the child disappears, all movement freezes on the final line, Ryuko becoming a white silhouette reminiscent of a crime scene outline for a moment. ]

"I want to stay alive" "ikite itai yo"

There's no hope ahead, but "I want to stay alive" nan no kibou mo nai kedo "ikite itai yo"

My instinct thumps in red honnou wa akaku myakuutsu no

"I want to stay alive," "I don't want to stay alive" "ikite itai yo" "ikitetakunai yo"

It's so unfortunate hontou ni zannen dakedo

But we all have to live bokura wa ikiru shikanain da

[ Throughout these lines, the background flashes between red and black in time with the music. The memories in the back switch to a dark bedroom with red blood splatters, then switch to a lone window with billowing red curtains, and then back and forth until the end of the stanza. ]

I'm sorry I deceived you damashite gomen yo

[ We flash back to reality, where Ryuko lies on the floor, hugging her knees, tears streaming down her face. ]

I'm sorry I couldn't tell you ienakute gomen yo

[ The scene flashes to her sleeping child in the bed, but the child doesn’t seem to be moving anymore. ]

And this is so sad soshite hontou ni kanashii keredo

[ The camera switches back to Ryuko, who is still crying, but smiling now. ]

But only suffering is the bond kurushimi dake ga kizuna nanda

[ The scene zooms out to a now-empty room, with the same open window and billowing red curtains as shown in one of the earlier memories. ]

[cielgram]

➤ ATTENTION WARDENS!

Umi Itsuki Voice Drama #1 - Midas' Touch has been released! Please be sure to read it as soon as you can!

Voting will be held at this link.

[lustrumlane]

The Last Day on Earth and other fairytales - Dante

She had told him that the world was going to end by ‘magic’. He told her that his almost did.

He does not see the blade fall upon her head, but the sharp sound cuts through his mind like glass.

“Why do you believe in magic?”

The botanist perked her head up from the greenhouse flowers, barely looking over her shoulder. “Why not?”

“Because it’s..y'know...well, I don’t mean to offend, but it’s never been proven to be real.”

She simply smiled. “I have, detective. I know I can do it. I’ve done it. I just need enough time to know how.”

He would watch her tend to the greenhouse, and receive a new report of a missing person when he returned to the city.

Magic is an infestation. A disease. A parasite. There’s no fault in wishing for a world of elves and dwarves and lush lands full of wonder. It’s a beautiful vision, from someone from a more normal world. But it's just not the reality of things.

It's rotten. It embeds itself into the Earth and floods your land. It’ll take away entire cities and everyone you knew there in the thick of the night and leave nothing behind. It’ll create its own hierarchy if it’s not satisfied with the one in place- and everyone will race to suck the resources dry. Damn it all. He wanted no kings in his magical world too. No rulers. No one who gets special supernatural gifts and privileges for being at the right damn place at the right time.

The voices of the other detectives are muffled as he absorbs Al’s final moments. Even the revival is drowned out by her words and his thoughts. Perhaps he was being selfish; her world was about to end, after all. This world, too. As others filed out of the courtroom one by one, he stayed, lost in his own thoughts.

[djungleskogs]

it’s crazy how absolutely blatantly luigi’s constitutional rights are being breached and people seem more concerned about his appearance than a real, scary view of the power CEOs and the healthcare industry have over the legal system. like yeah he looks good in those photos i can appreciate that too but can we focus on the fact that the media is absolutely treating him as if he has already been found guilty. this could happen to anyone. anyone could be arrested over the death of a wealthy, influential person and the precedent being set right now is essentially that the prosecution can run wild and create documentaries declaring your guilt. like that’s really serious and scary.

[12below-milgram]

『🫧 Weakness English Cover』

Main Vocals: Nathan Martin

Background Vocals & VA: @kumorishouhei

English Lyrics: @lostghostinspace

[septgram]

bark>bite + BLOODY! BLOODY!

this post contains tess' VD and MV. the MV contains themes of bullying. the poll is at the end!!

The sound of a door opening. The Warden walks over to Tess and sits down. They sound more frustrated than usual. Tess sounds like they’re trying to be intimidating. Even so, it’s clear that they’re on edge.

W: It’s time for your interrogation.

W: Firstly, let me introduce you to MILGRAM. MILGRAM has declared you a murderer. I am your Warden, and…

W: Don’t make that face at me.

T: I’m not a murderer.

W: We’ll discuss that in a bit.

T: Please, listen to me. Whatever it is that you think that I did

W: I don’t think anything. I know, because MILGRAM is never wrong. Are you accusing MILGRAM of being mistaken?

T: No! Of course not! I just…

W: Just what?

T: … I’d understand if it did make a mistake. The situation was a bit confusing, so, um… I’d get it.

W: MILGRAM doesn’t get confused.

T: Right. Of course.

T: …

T: But… please. Believe me. I’m not a killer.

W: That’s what you all say.

T: What else can I say?

W: You could tell me the truth, for one.

T: I am.

W: Of course you are.

W: Before you continue pleading your innocence, I’d like for you to introduce yourself.

A bit of silence passes between them. The Warden cuts it rather quickly.

W: Now.

T: Psh… I’m Tereza Hill, and I’m years old. What would you like to know?

W: Tell me about your stay here. How has MILGRAM been treating you?

T: It’s fine.

W: … That’s insufficient. Elaborate.

T: There’s not a lot I can say. Sorry. I don’t spend much time with the other prisoners, so I just stay in my cell most of the time. That’s it.

W: You don’t? I’m surprised. Nastya talked to me about you.

T: She did? … What did she say?

W: I’m afraid that that’s confidential.

T: Hmph. Just… don’t listen to her. Please. She’s the one that keeps picking fights with me. I didn’t do anything to her.

W: Do things get physical between you?

T: No.

W: Why do you think that is?

T: She knows that if we were to fight, I’d win. Nobody likes her, anyway, so they wouldn’t care if I beat her up.

W: Why do you think that they don’t like her?

T: I, uh… They just don’t. It’s obvious.

W: I see. Do they dislike you as well? Is that why you don’t spend time with them?

T: No. Maybe. I mean, I don’t care. I don’t spend time with them because I don’t want to. That’s it.

W: Why?

T: … because they’re murderers?

W: So are you.

T: No, that’s..!!

Tess stops herself before finishing her sentence. She sighs, frustrated, and speaks quieter from now on.

T: … My introduction isn’t finished. What else can I tell you?

W: Fine, be that way. We’ll return to this subject soon enough. Tell me about your life.

T: Thank you. Um… I’m in my second year of high school.

T: …

W: What’s the matter? You just said that you want to continue on with your introduction.

T: I don’t know what to talk about. My life is… nothing special, really?

W: Are you dissatisfied with your life?

T: No. I like it.

W: Then tell me what you like about it.

T: Um.

T: …

T: My friends, I guess. We’re on the volleyball team together. It’s nice.

W: What kind of people are your friends?

T: They’re.. my friends..? Sorry, I don’t know what you want me to say.

W: Just tell me what they’re like.

T: Why?

W: Because I’m telling you to.

T: That’s-!!

W: You’ve been surprisingly forthcoming with information up until now. What’s changed?

T: You have no reason to suspect them.

W: You’re admitting that I have reason to suspect you, then?

T: That’s different. I’d never kill anyone. I don’t deserve to be here.

W: I’ve already gone over this with the previous prisoner, and I’d loathe to go over it with you, too.

T: I’m not like Sasha.

W: Don’t act like you’re better than the other prisoners. You’re all the same.

Tess is trying to control her frustration, but failing. She starts shouting at the Warden. The Warden successfully maintains their cold, although frustrated, demeanor. Their frustration seems to only grow with time.

T: I’m not!

W: Throwing tantrums won’t do you any favors.

T: I just-!! It’s not what you think!!

W: Then, what is it?

T: You wouldn’t understand.

W: Why do you think that?

T: Because..!!

T: You’ve already made up your mind! I’m already ‘guilty’ to you.

W: Your guilt is an objective fact. MILGRAM has declared you a murderer. It has never been mistaken.

T: It is, now!

W: Why would it be mistaken?

T: Because it was an accident!!

W: Is that all? An accidental murder is still a murder.

T: You’re wrong!! I didn’t- How could I have known that they’d..!!

W: Then tell me.

T: What??

W: Tell me what the accident was. If you really are innocent, you will be let go.

T: That’s…

T: …

W: Go on. You’re innocent, so there’s nothing to be afraid of. Make me understand.

Tess falls silent. The silence stretches for almost a minute. The Warden’s disdain when they speak is palpable now.

W: Hm. That’s what I thought.

W: You all love pleading for your innocence. Begging to be let go. You act like you’re entitled to freedom. But, when I generously give you the chance to explain yourself, you falter. I’ve always found that interesting.

W: Most of the prisoners in my care at least have the decency to try and prove that you did the right thing. “Yes, I killed them, but it had to be done.” You aren’t even trying to make me see things your way. There’s only one reason why that could be.

W: You know that you’re guilty. You know that you’ve taken a life, and that you can never give it back. You know that there’s nothing you can do to fix this. You know that you belong here. You know that, despite what you want to believe, you’re no better than any murderer that has stepped foot in MILGRAM. You know–

T: Stop it!!

Suddenly, Tess stands up, pushing their chair away. They nearly instantaneously lunge at the Warden from across the table. Mystical sounds can be heard throughout the room, along with Tess grunting. The Warden hasn’t moved.

W: I thought that I told you – throwing tantrums is pointless.

T: What..?!

W: You didn’t think you could just attack me like that, did you?

In place of a response, Tess punches the barrier surrounding the Warden. The sound echoes.

W: Get back to your seat. This is your one chance.

Neither say anything. Tess keeps trying to break through the barrier, The Warden doesn’t give her long. They grab her and throw her dow. They stand up. Tess grunts, panting.

W: …

T: What..? What?! What are you looking at?!!

W: You’re worse.

A bell rings. Mechanical sounds fill the room. Tess startles. They’re still trying to appear intimidating, but fail.

T: What is that??

W: I’m cutting this interrogation short.

T: Why?

W: I have no interest in interrogating someone like you.

Their panic and fear are now completely clear.

T: … no… no, wait- I’m sorry for attacking you, okay? I’m sorry! I’ll tell you what happened, I-

W: No. I gave you a chance, and you wasted it. I’m not going to let you waste even more of my time. Let this be a lesson for next time.

W: Prisoner 004, Tereza Hill. Sing your sins.

--

the song i chose is bloody! bloody! by junie and thehutfriends

The style of Tess’ MV is similar to this, and other MVs that the artist has made. Take that with a grain of salt, though, it’s just the closest thing that I could find.

Ain't it funny how I scare myself sometimes?

A shot of a sword’s blade. Tess’ eyes are reflected in it, glaring.

Don't be cute, be scary

They sheath the sword.

You're so down bad for anything Been mad since you were seventeen

Tess is sitting at her desk with a few of her classmates. Their faces are blank. She’s positioned at the center of them.

You drink to forget everything And now you're seeking blood

Close-up of her face. She looks away from the group, looking around, searching for something. Though she’s looking at something out of frame, it looks like she’s looking at the viewer. She furrows her brows.

He's slipping off his wedding ring He says he's got a limousine

Tess points off screen at what she saw. Her classmates run in the same direction.

You take his hand quite literally He's coughing up a lung

Her classmates are standing at the door to their classrooms. It’s so crowded that we don’t see who or what they’re swarming.

(I probably shouldn't have said that)

Tess slumps a bit, and looks away.

They said, "The lady in red", bloody, bloody (x3)

Tess is putting on knight armor. We don’t see their face here. 

They said, "The lady in red", bloody

A full body shot of Tess. They unsheath their sword, a regular longsword. Their eyes are set on the viewer.

A dripping gooey masterpiece Casts shadows down the city streets

Tess is sitting at her desk with a few of her classmates. Same shot as before.

So silent, keeping up the peace A siren screeches by

Once again, Tess points off screen. This time, she gets up and joins her classmates in the swarming.

Across town, sitting up in bed The pounding grows inside your head

We see from Tess’ POV here. She’s now in a school bathroom. She’s looking in the mirror. Her face is bruised and bloody.

A craving that cannot be fed It's happening again

They splash their face with water when a stall behind them opens. Tess sees their reflection in the mirror and scowls. We don’t see who it is.

(I think it's getting worse now)

We see from the other person’s POV here. She looks high above, perspective-wise, and wearing armor.

Ain't it funny how I scare myself sometimes? (I don't trust her eyes)

They’re sitting at their desk now. They’re slumped over, resting their bruised face in their hands. They overhear someone say the second line while pointing at them, and frown. 

Ain't it funny how I scare myself sometimes? (I probably shouldn’t have said that)

We see from the other person’s POV for this shot. Knight!Tess walks up to their desk and slams their head into the desk.

They said, "The lady in red", bloody, bloody (x3) They said, "The lady in red", bloody

Knight!Tess is in battle. They’re not using their sword right now, only defending with their shield. They still get hit a few times, but their armor protects them. Everyone but Tess is wearing a helmet.

And they’re calling you— Bloody

Someone slashes at Tess’ face, they barely manage to dodge. They lose a few strands of hair, and there is now an open cut on their face.

And you're driving with your hands, not believing all the bleeding And they're calling you–

We see from Tess’ POV here. They’re sitting on someone’s stomach, gripping their shirt's collar. Their face is bruised and bloody. They have pink hair.

Bloody

Knight!Tess discards their shield.

And the knife sits gleaming in the red back seating And they're calling you–

We see from the pink haired person’s POV here. Tess looks furious. They’re not bruised, but their nose is bleeding. They bare their, now canine, teeth.

Bloody

Knight!Tess advances upon their enemies, furious.

And they're all still screaming in your head And their lips, they’re calling you–

Like usual, we see from an outside POV. Tess grabbing the person by their hair, ripping some of it out, even.

Bloody And they're calling you bloody, bloody

Knight!Tess sparring with someone. Their swordsmanship is poor, but they make up for that in determination.

And they're calling you—

Knight!Tess has thrown someone to the ground. We see from their POV. She’s standing above them.

Bloody! Bloody!

She drives her sword through ‘you’.

They said, "The lady in red", bloody, bloody (x3) They said, "The lady in red", bloody, bloody (x3) (I probably shouldn't have said that) (x3)

This part all looks very similar. It’s just Tess fighting the other knights again. They become more and more angry as this part goes on. Every “bloody, bloody” scene changes, they’re in school again. Instead of knights, Tess is fighting their classmates. She’s always more bruised than them. The battle/school shots are always very similar.

Bloody (I probably shouldn't have said that) (x3)

Close up’s of Tess’ face. Their cut from earlier is still bleeding. They’re shaking. Their expression is a mix of fear and anger.

Bloody, bloody

They drive their sword through someone under them again, in a manner similar to the first time.

(But you did)

A shot of knight!Tess with her sword driven through school!Tess’ chest. The latter is sprawled on the floor, bruised, in a pool of blood. We don’t see either of their faces.

--

what milgram song would they cover? this was hard to choose but probably bring it on !!:)

what other, non-milgram song would they cover? take me to war by the crane wives. it was a big contender for their actual song - it was SO hard finding a song that fits t1 tess btw. i had a lot of contenders, but none really clicked. shoutout to my bestie for recommending bloody! bloody!

<33 thank you for voting!!! i'd love to hear any thoughts/theories you have - who knows, you could influence the second trial if you do..>:3

[elysium-the-true-faceofsalvation]

Trial 1- Soul N.06 Verdict

(art done by @envyofsteel)

[hachigram]

004 MV 1 — VITA

Song: Vita by Hiiragi Kirai ft. Flower

CWs: Gun usage, blood, death, implied suicide, murder, religious themes

I see it as reckless

A sign that I've been played by the devil

The hidden path of my life

Has turned into a dried-up shell

Haruhi stands on a stage with several eyes on them. They are dressed in what looks to be shrine maiden attire, performing a ritual dance for the audience. 

At the end of their performance, they look out into the crowd. A dark-haired man dressed in all black wears a wicked grin, applauding along with the rest of the crowd.

All this pointless sorrow

Keeps overflowing, it won’t stop

I can see it bringing

Pain and suffering my way

Haruhi smiles as their mother ruffles their hair. “I am so proud of you,” she says to them. “You are doing me and *****-san proud.” The name of the man from before is omitted.

Haruhi glances out towards the man, and the expression on their face falls away. Their smile warps into a panicked frown, their pupils shrinking. It’s obvious that this man terrifies her.

I’m living my life to the fullest

I’m dying with all I’ve got

I’m living bitterly, you see

I don’t want to be consumed by the devil

Yet Haruhi continues to work for him, despite how terrified they are of him. After all, they’ve been told that any attempts to leave will be paid for with their life. What choice do they have?

They perform once again in front of a shrine, glancing offstage to where the man awaits.

Dear my devil

They clasp their hands in prayer, lowering their head.

Extreme, relentless

With a dimming end, you know

I just want to stop breathing

So it doesn’t hurt, peacefully

Haruhi looks up towards the sky with their hands still in prayer as they speak these words.

Please, please, please

Please, please, please

It’s just getting worse

I’m just faking my way through

Please

They continue to speak, hands still in prayer. At the end, they fall to their knees.

In this dark, dark life

I’m searching while I drive

Always seeking on this lightless road

Haruhi walks alone in the dark, the lantern in their hand the only light source. They seem to be walking towards something, but it isn’t clear as to what.

I see it as reckless

A sign that I've been played by the devil

I’m deceived, just trying to breathe

I want it to stop, please take me away

I scream with that wish

They suddenly trip, falling over. The lantern is still lit, but they have no desire to pick it up. They move to sit up, sitting on their knees and clutching the fabric of their clothes. Teardrops fall onto their hands.

Extreme, relentless

Let’s end it all with a dimming end

Haruhi cries out to the sky, throwing their head all the way back.

I’m living my life to the fullest

I’m dying with all I’ve got

I’m living my life to the fullest

Everyone’s feeling the same way

Haruhi walks into a room, the camera pointed towards the door. Their face seems to indicate something horrific happening off screen.

Let’s dig up the dead

I don’t want to die

I’m living bitterly, you see

I don’t want to be consumed by the devil

Haruhi kneels over her mother’s body, which is covered in blood, a gun discarded nearby. They try to shake her awake, but to no avail.

Dear my devil

Haruhi turns around to see someone else entering the room. It’s the man from before.

With an extreme dimming end

Let’s wrap it up in a way that’s not adorned

“What a shame. She couldn’t be saved. Ah, well. Come, Haruhi. You have a performance to prepare for. You’re getting your robes dirty.”

Haruhi reaches over and grabs the gun. They hold it up with trembling hands, a mixture of fear and anger on their face.

Extreme, relentless

With a dimming end, you know

I just want to stop breathing

So it doesn’t hurt, peacefully

Haruhi grits their teeth, holding their composure even as the man berates them.

“Put the gun down. You’re being overdramatic. Death is inevitable. Your mother was nothing but a waste of air. She was too soft on you.”

“Stop. Talking. About. My. Mama. That. WAY!”

Please, please, please

Please, please, please

It’s just getting worse

We hear a gunshot, yet we don’t fully know what happened after.

Please, please, please

Please, please, please

Haruhi, covered in blood, falls to their knees, almost dropping the gun in the process.

I just want things to change for that moment

I don’t know what comes after, so please.

They aim the gun at their own throat, screaming out as they prepare to die.

Suddenly, the shadow belonging to something inhuman looms.

Haruhi tilts their head in confusion as the video ends.

[heartfeltgram]

𝟎𝟎𝟑 𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐃𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐀 — 𝐁𝐑𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐍 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄, 𝐁𝐑𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐍 𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐓

[ The audio opens up with the creak of a metal door followed by footsteps. ] 

SHIKI: I'm sorry I'm late. I was havin' a smoke, you see. It relaxes me before times like these, ehe. Anyways, my name is Shiki. My brother and I are the wardens here.

RYUKO: Ah. I see. It's nice to meet you both. I'm guessing you guys know who I am already?

SHIKI: Of course we do, silly! Uh- [whispers] Brother, which one is she again?

SHIRO: She’s Ryuko Irie, sister. Try not to forget next time…

SHIKI: Riiight, Ryuko Irie, Prisoner Number Three! And I won’t forget next time! You’ll see!

RYUKO: ……. [She sighs.] Can we get this over with?

SHIRO: Better sooner than later I’d say. 

SHIKI: I got this! Name, age, and occupation, please!

RYUKO: Ryuko Irie. I’m thirty-five years old. And… I don’t have a job.

SHIRO: So I went from the youngest prisoner to the oldest … How come you don’t have a job? Any special reason, or were job searches just failing you? 

RYUKO: Oh, believe me. I tried applying. Rejection after rejection after rejection. My daughter’s restlessness didn’t paint me in a good light, either.

SHIKI: You have a daughter? SHIRO: Yeah, I forgot to tell you that. Mochizuki mentioned it to me earlier. Say, how old was your daughter? 

RYUKO: Three. I miss her dearly.

SHIKI: Did anything happen to her?

RYUKO: …………………… [ She says nothing, just sighs heavily and looks down at the floor. ]

SHIRO: …Perhaps we should move on from that subject. 

SHIKI: Ah, right… Say, Ryuko… How have things been around here? Any prisoners you’ve gotten along with?

RYUKO: Mmm. Choko keeps me company a lot. I’ve grown rather fond of the kid. Though I wonder what she’s been through… she seems rather mature for her age. As a mother, it worries me.

SHIRO: I did wonder if you started to see her as a daughter yourself. 

RYUKO: Yes, I do, in a way… She reminds me of myself when I was younger.

SHIKI: Interesting. About before… Why were you having trouble getting hired?

RYUKO: Ah… Well, it’s… a long story. I’m not sure you want to bother with it right now.

SHIRO: I’d say that any information is good information, if you’re comfortable telling it. Maybe try and sum it up? 

RYUKO: Well… Some unfortunate circumstances happened, and… my husband left me after my daughter was born. Money was tight, so I tried to apply, but… Because I had a kid, and no one to watch over her… they deemed me unacceptable. It isn’t fair.

SHIKI: Ohh… Is that why you aren’t wearing shoes?

SHIRO: I don’t think you’re supposed to make comments like that… anyways, I’m sorry the job market was so difficult for you. 

RYUKO: [ There’s a long stretch of silence before she replies. She seems to be staring off into the distance. ] That……isn’t the reason, no. I… I don’t want to talk about it.

Anyways, why are we even bothering with this conversation? I’m guilty as charged, so just go ahead and sentence me already.

SHIKI: Huh? Just like that?

SHIRO: That at least answers my next question, however sad it is. But we’re having this conversation to get to know you and not make baseless assumptions. 

RYUKO: You guys are wardens, right? Isn’t it your job to hand out our verdicts? Getting to know me is pointless when I’m telling you that I’m guilty. I admit it. I killed her. I killed her with my own two hands. So just… sentence me, dammit!

SHIKI: Brother, this is getting too intense…

SHIRO: As much as we’d all love to get out of here as soon as possible, it doesn’t work like that. Even when this trial is over it won’t work like that. Firstly, we still need to know what's going on … on the inside.

RYUKO: ………….. [She says nothing, just averts her gaze with tears in her eyes.]

SHIKI: I don’t think she wants to do this anymore, brother.

SHIRO: …Are we done here then? 

RYUKO: …..Do what you want. I don’t care.

[ The mechanical bell tolls once more, indicating that time is up. ]

SHIKI: How about I start us off? [She clears her throat.] Prisoner number three… 

SHIRO: Ryuko Irie…

SHIKI & SHIRO: Sing your sins!

[ MV: GEHENNA ]

[colorfuldreamsmkg]

Off with her Head: Haven’t I Seen this Before? - Ch1 Execution

Hitome is a bit caught off guard by the hug, staring at Swan with a wild, tearful look as he exclaims that he won’t let her get taken away. “Wh- wha-” Where was this coming from? How did this reaction even spawn? She wants to push him away and snap, but instead, she sinks a bit in the hug. Why did he even care? Why does she? Erika’s request meets a small look, then a nod. “......okay, yeah, I… I can do that.” Quietly, she grabs out her phone, transferring 85 of her crystals to Sonny, and 85 to Cecilie. An even split. She tucks her phone back in her pocket, before lingering in the hug.

Fifteen minutes had come and passed, with little fanfare or hubbub from the people around. Many had already said their goodbyes prior to the voting results, and redundancy would only make this harder, wouldn’t it? Among relative silence, Miku spoke up.

“Well, time's up! I hope you’re happy with your goodbyes, or lack thereof, because this was your last chance to bid your friend farewell. As for me… Thank you for bonding with others, Hitome! It was cute to see how many people loved and defended you. I hope that gives you some relief during what's next, right?”

What, no-

Hearing that the time limit was up, Hitome’s eyes widened in fear. Her breathing hitches. “No. No no no. Miku, I’m not ready. Please, Miku, give me more time-! I’m not ready!! PLEA-”

In a sudden change, the water below her feet became no longer solid, as she slipped through it in a large splash. Though Swan was capable of holding onto her during this, he seemed to be prevented from slipping through in quite the same way. Eventually, with the friction of the water, she slipped through his grasp as he remained upon the surface of the reflective ripples.

The screen within the trial room changed, turning off the voting results and instead showing a view of Hitome, clear and high-definition for you to see. And shortly after, Miku herself passes through the water, leaving you alone.

---

Off with her Head: Haven’t I Seen this Before? Execution of Hitome Hoshikawa

Organ music sets the scene as everything begins to fade into view. Looks like some sort of throne room, with the throne resting in the middle of it all. Dark colors and elegant decals decorate the room, with a red carpet rolling from the seat to the door. Pillars and gothic aesthetic add to the aura of everything, coming off like a complete evil castle from a video game. And what is an evil castle without an evil Queen?

Resting on the throne looks to be Hitome Hoshikawa. Her outfit has completely changed, now in a long, flowing dress, complete with a large shawl and lots of jewelry. Dressed in dark colors and silvers, she looks rather focused and sinister. She appears perfect for the role, and who better than someone who brutally murdered a friend?

She remains, waiting, bored, until she snaps out of it. She hears a noise, a whisper, calling to her. Hitome Looks around, not seeing anything, then goes back to her post. Then again. Nothing. And again, louder this time, clearer this time.

“Look at what she’s done.”

“Did she really expect any respect?”

“Down with the Queen.”

Hitome shudders, sinking in her seat. The whispers get louder, becoming silent shouts. She begins to shake, not wanting to leave her throne. She can’t just leave, just because people want her gone.

“She deserves to be gotten rid of.”

“She truly is nobody.”

“How dare she act like nothing is wrong.”

“Down with the Queen.”

“Down with the Queen.”

“DOWN WITH THE QUEEN!!”

The whispers become chants, as Hitome grows even more uneasy. She knows, she knows.

Just let her remain in peace. She does her best to tune it all out, that is, until she feels a tug at the bottom of her dress. Looking down, she gasps in shock.

A hand dressed in shadow, grabs the bottom of her dress, attempting to yank it back. Hitome responds as she rips the part of her dress back, before stomping on the hand. It dissolves into smoke, until more start appearing. The grab onto her dress, her arms, her jewelry. They’re attempting to drag her away.

She jolts, ripping herself out of their grip. With all her might, she tears herself away, staring at the hands. At the shadows. Then she turns and bolts.

Hitome runs out of the room, throwing open the door and bolting. The shadows continue to chase her, attempting to drag her back. She screams, doing her best to get away. Who knows what all she’s lost from their grip. Some of her dress, some jewels, is her phone missing? She can’t tell anymore. All she needs is to RUN. RUN. AND HIDE. NOW.

Through the halls, she spots another door. She throws it open, before slamming it behind her. The shadows, now trapped behind the door, slowly creep away as she feels the resistance fade from the other side. Finally, safe. Her eyes scan the room, looking at how flat and open it is. What, is this some sort of meeting hall? Lobby? Where is she?

And then something, no, someone emerges from the darkness in front of her. It’s-

…Miku?

Miku, dressed in hero-like garb, wielding a sword, stares down the evil Queen. Hitome blinks, before raising up her hands in surrender. Look, she doesn’t want to fight, especially against Miku. Her eyes scan the room, noticing another door on the other side.

That’s it. That’s her chance.

Hitome huffs, before screaming, attempting to bolt through to the other door. And yet, Miku is faster.

“Down with the queen.”

She points her sword at Hitome, before lunging forward in lightning fast speeds. Teal light flashes all around, slicing through the air in a scratch-like design. Delicately, Miku lands on the other side, before doing a small, heroic pose with her blade.

And the slashes turn into a bright flash of rushing light. A sheer amount of power. The screams from the inside as it all cuts her up. The darkness was the least of her worries. 

Just like that, the light fades, as the evil Queen collapses in her spot. Lifeless, teal lights softly rising from her body. It’s over, the evil has been defeated.

…but does it truly feel so fair?