#why am i staring to like 'bad' Vocaloid songs

[male--byleth]

Okay but why do i low-key like kaito ga uninstall now

[let-the-living-beware]

(^◕ᴥ◕^) - 𝓒𝓪𝓽 𝓖𝓱𝓸𝓼𝓽 - (^◕ᴥ◕^)

This is inspired by the vocaloid song 或る化け猫の恋物語 (The lovestory of a cat ghost) by Nem.

Character: Kou Mukami

Type: x reader (neutral)

Tw: Violence, Death

(^˵◕ω◕˵^)👻(^˵◕ω◕˵^)👻(^˵◕ω◕˵^)👻(^˵◕ω◕˵^)👻

Your slow cries echoed throughout the cemetery, attracting the attention of a small black cat. He recognized you from around the village. Your husband became ill a few years ago, and you dedicated your life to raising funds for a doctor. Nonetheless, you always fed him a portion of your meal.

Something in him awoke as he stared at you longer and longer. Sadness was something he had never felt before. He didn't want you to cry, but rather to be happy. "I want her to be happy again." he whispered and with a slight light arising from his chest he turned into your husband, a handsome young man with blonde hair and light blue eyes. "Hey, neko-chan," he said as he approached you. When you heard his words, you turned around, stunned. You walked slowly towards him but collapsed before you could reach him, bursting into even more of a crying mess than before. "You are alive. Please, never leave me again." you cried out.

Kou kneeled down and hugged your fragile body that was shaking uncontrollably. "I wont." he whispered just so loud you could hear it. "I am so glad you´re back, Kou." you spoke out while watching inhis blue eyes. A thought creeped into Kous mind. Maybe this wasn´t a good idea?

≼❣→𝕹𝖞����𝖓←❣≽

Kou slowly looked over to you making breakfast like every morning for a month now. He learned to love you more and more but not as a lover, as a friend. He wanted to protect you and make you the happiest person on earth. "Breakfast is ready, darling." you cheered as you walked towards him with miso soup in your hands. You still hadn´t had much money but still tried to make the best out of it. "I will go down town to sell some of the clothes I made. They are getting more and more popular you know? If only they were back when you were so terribly ill." you sighed and took a sip of your soup. The blonde haired boy looked at you in confusion. He always thought someone else made these clothes and you would just sell them. "That´s great! How about I come and help you?" , "Oh god no, darling. You still need some rest!" You instantly contered with a concerned look at your face.

It was fine by him, after all were dirty hands the worst of it all. But maybe he could have promoted it a bit since he didn´t look bad. He would call himelf beautiful even, way out of your league. When your real husband was still around he always wondered why you were together in the first place. He seemed pretty well liked by some of the more wealthier girls in town. It was a riddle to him. "Well I need to get going, until later." you smiled and said a quick goodbye when you left. Kou stood in the doorframe until he couldn´t see you and then closed the door to have some privacy. Now it was time to relax a bit and find out more about your relationship.

Well at least that´s what he wanted to do but the blonde was disturbed by a knock on the door. A little bit annoyed at his disturbed peace he turned around and opened the door only to find two men in front of it. "Is this the Mukami household?", they asked, a threatening aura around them. "Yes." was Kou´s short answer. The men smiled at each other. "We´re here to get the money back that your wife lend the Sakamaki family."

Sakamaki? He heard that name somewhere before. Weren´t that these arrogant Yokai that made themselves comfortable in the human world? His older brother was complaining about them a few times. But why would you owe them anything? This would only be possible if...no. You were smart enough to not take on debts from spiritually beings. That must´ve been a mistake.

"I am sorry but you must have got the wrong family.", he answered, and the men looked at each other again but this time with a hush of anger on their faces. "I doubt that, mister but if you won´t comply we have to take trastic meassures." the stronger one said and pulled out a sword. Kous mood was now ruined completely. If they wouldnt back up he had to make a move. "Hear, you scumbag I dont want you messing around with them. They are in enough stress as is and if you wont back away now I will kill you." his voice now seemed deeper and not as cheerful as before. He also let his tail and ears show. "and now piss off.", with that last sentence a whosh of magic stormed through them instantly putting them to the ground. But he still wasn´t done, he finally could let out the things he wasn´t able to do on anyone in your presence. "Lets have some fun, what do you say?"

≼❣→𝕹𝖞𝖆𝖓←❣≽

"I´m back honey!" you shouted into the house. Something seemed off but you just blamed it on your imagination. "Neko-chan you´re late. I was gonna go look for you." Kou walked towards you with his hand spread out to give you a hug. "Haha sorry I was talking to Subaru-kun. I lent some money from them some time ago and he was checking up on me." you smiled at them and Kous hunch that these guys were thiefs that caught on, on your debt confirmed itself. Still he was somehow mad that you had such a good relation with one of the Sakamaki. "Oh thats nice!" he relied to you adn took your hand. "You know I made a surprise for you.", "Really?" you asked exited. It was sometime that you got anything and Kou knew that.

He took your hand and led you towards the kitchen. On the table was whole meal he decided to make for you after beating up these robbers. Your eyes shone in exitement as you sat down on the table. kou walked towards the kitchen counter to get the last ingredient that had to be kept warm to taste good. "You know Kou." you began stopping said male in his tracks. The moon already shone through the window and his eyes lit up in the two colors they really were. "Everytime I looked into your eyes I remembered that his looked different than yours but I dont care." you finished your sentence and it hit Kou like a rock.

He began to shiver uncontrollably and tears formed in his eyes. So you knew? Before he could think twice his legs already gave in ans you run over to him. Tears streamed down his eyes like a never ending waterfall. He felt your embrace but it was already to late. Only seconds went by before he was his true self again. A little blonde cat with a blue and red eye. He never wanted you to see him like this. He never wanted you to find out. Ashamed, sad and angry of himelfs he ran towards the one open window but not before you couls speak your last words to him.

"I thank you so much dear Cat."

To this day there is a legend of a blonde cat going up to an old cemetary to watch over the person he once saved.

[ii-kanjiiiii]

A Crazy Day at Miku Expo

A Vocaloid shitpost story

Warnings: swearing, contains Kaito x Meiko

Chapter 1

It was a normal day in the Cryptonloid household, like always. It was 12pm and Meiko was already up because she’s a normal person.

“GET UP YOU IDIOTS WE HAVE TO LEAVE FOR MIKU EXPOOO!!!!” she woke the rest of the Cryptonloids up as she was a thoughtful person.

“OH SHIT I FORGOT!!” Miku screamed. Her hair looked like Chuckie Finster from Rugrats but had a much larger mass.

“WAIT WHAT THE FUCK WE’RE PERFORMING TONIGHT?!!? PLS NOOOOO I HAVE A PIMPLE!!!” Len cried.

Miraculously, all of them had somehow forgotten that they had a Miku Expo concert in the mystical country of Hajarputa that night. Except for Meiko, because she was a responsible person.

Once they were done packing and getting ready, they went into their private Miku jet which was covered with Miku faces and had big words that said “HATSUNE MIKU” because Miku is the best and owns the world.

Inside, ‘World is Mine’ was playing on loop and the wall was covered in Miku wallpaper and posters. Meiko sat on a Miku couch at the front, because Meiko is queen and is obviously the sexiest one. Kaito, being the simp that he is, sat next to her.

Luka went all the way to the back of the Miku jet and sat in a Miku chair in the corner, away from everyone else as she was tired of everyone’s bullshit.

Miku and the demonic twins were in the middle, just jumping around and throwing shit everywhere as they were still high as fUCK from the FRUIT loops they ate for breakfast.

Suddenly, ‘World is Mine’ stopped playing, and the pilot made an announcement through the plane intercom. Or whatever it’s called lmao I don’t know.

“Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome onboard Flight Miku. We will be taking off from Sapporo to Hajarputa. I am Sonic the Hedgehog and I am your pilot for today. Just kidding bitch, my name is actually うんち(‘Jonathan Harris’ in Japanese). We are expected to reach Hajarputa in about 22 hours. I swear to God, PLEASE put on your seatbelts or you’re gonna fucking die. We also ask that you ensure your seats are in the upright position for take-off, if not you’ll fucking die. Please turn off all personal electronic devices, if not you’ll fucking die as well. Don’t smoke too, cause you’ll get lung cancer and fucking die. Thank you for choosing Miku Airlines. Enjoy your flight. I definitely will not crash this plane. I swear.”

'World is Mine’ was back playing on loop again.

“Well that was comforting,” Meiko said, being a sarcastic piece of shit.

“Lol what? I don’t remember hiring this man,” Miku said. “Lol, whatever,” she shrugged.

Some time after the Miku Jet took off, Kaito and Meiko started fighting over what they would name their non-existent kid that they would never have.

“If she’s a girl, Sakura is the best name!! It represents beauty and optimism,” Kaito said.

“It also represents death,” Meiko argued. “And who the fuck names their kid after a plant? Enaado is the best name!!”

“The fuck kinda name is Enaado?” Len, who was seated far away from them, muttered to himself. Meiko, who was somehow able to hear him, pulled a super soaker gun out of nowhere and squirted him all the way from the other end of the plane.

Some hours later, the vocaloids were bored as heck and ‘World is Mine’ playing on loop was driving them to insanity(except for Miku of course).

“Can you turn that shit off, Miku? I swear to God, if I hear “sekai de ichiban ohime-sama” one more damn time, my internal organs are going to explode,” Luka said, smashing her head against the wall.

“Geez, fine, Luka! You don’t have to be so mean about it, it’s not my fault you don’t know how to appreciate good art,” Miku rolled her eyes, then she changed the song to ‘Popipo’ on loop, which was probably 100x worse.

“YOU’RE my sekai de ichiban ohime-sama, Me-chan~<3” Kaito UwU-ed. She smacked him with a magazine.

Another time skip, Miku wanted to play truth or dare lmao. Luka, Miku and the twins sat in a circle and started playing.

“Oh yeah, by the way, Mei-nee and Kai-nii are in the game too,” Miku said.

“Wtf no thanks,” Meiko immediately said, not looking up from her magazine about self control & anger management.

“No, you can’t escape, Mei-nee,” Miku replied, staring intensely into her soul. She then got a piece of rope out of nowhere and tied Meiko and Kaito to their chairs.

“TRUTH OR DARE, MEI-NEE?” Miku asked, her eye twitching.

“Ugh, fine. Truth,” Meiko replied, as she had no other choice.

Meanwhile, Kaito was having Vietnam war flashbacks as Miku tying him to the chair reminded him of that one time he got kidnapped by Sonic the Hedgehog. (An event that happened in my other fanfic that I’m not going to post.)

“Do you want to make out with Kai-nii?” Miku asked with a stupid shitty grin on her face.

“What the fuck? Oh, HELL NO. I think I already know how this is gonna go,” Meiko muttered.

“AnSwEr tHe qUeStiOn!!!” Miku yelled impatiently, flipping the fucking table.

“Dare!” Meiko quickly said, sweating.

“I dare you to make out with Kai-nii,” Miku said, raising her eyebrows up and down like fucking Mr. Bean.

Upon hearing this, Kaito’s attention was caught and he snapped out of his Vietnam war flashbacks.

“GODDAMN IT!!” Meiko cursed.

“Oh my GOD, Kaito. Don’t give me THAT look,” Meiko said, terrified for her life as she noticed Kaito looking at her with considerable interest.

“Why the hell did you give that dare, Miku? Literally NO ONE wants to see that shit,” Len said, staring judgingly at Miku. He definitely did not have to see his parents smashing their faces together.

“Yeah, Len’s right,” Luka said. “Aight, Imma head out. Bye bitches,” she flipped her fabulous long hair and strolled out elegantly. Once she reached her seat at the far corner of the plane, she opened her laptop and looked at images of the Gingerbread Man from Shrek.

“Shut up Len and just watch the show!” Rin, who was just as delusional as Miku, scolded.

“MEIKOUT MEIKOUT MEIKOUT MEIKOUT MEIKOUT” the crazy girls started chanting.

I’m so sorry

I really have no idea where this shitty fanfic is going

TIME SKIP LOL

It was nighttime and the Cryptonloids were sleeping in their beds with Miku blankets and ‘Popipo’ was still playing on loop. Suddenly, the Miku Jet started shaking really hard, then everyone flew out of their beds and hit their heads on the ceiling. After a few seconds, the Miku Jet stopped shaking and everyone fell back to the ground.

“Heh heh, sorry folks. Just a little air turbulence is all,” Pilot うんち announced.

“What the actual FUCK?? “A ‘liTtLE’ aIR tUrBuLeNcE” he said!! I don’t think we should be entrusting that guy with our LIVES!!” Meiko seethed. “I’m going to have a word with him.” she stormed off to the Pilot’s cabin.

“Wait Me-chan, I’ll come too,” Kaito said, and tagged along with her for extra support because he was a good boyfriend.

Once they reached the Pilot’s cabin, she slid open the door and shouted “LISTEN UP, MISTER, DO YOUR DAMN JOB PROPERLY!!”

“Oh, Meiko-san, hello!” the pilot spun his chair around and smiled. “Oh, Kaito, you’re here too! How’s it going, buddy? Has Sonic been bothering you any more?”

Meiko and Kaito’s eyes widened as they realised who the pilot was.

“FUKASE??!!!!” they screamed in shock. His Ronald Mcdonald hair was unmistakable.

“No, I’m うんち. Who the hell is Fukase?” うんち/Fukase said.

“WHY ARE YOU FLYING A PLANE, FUKASE??!! AREN’T YOU LIKE, FOURTEEN?!??!!!” Meiko screamed.

“Uh, no, I’m fifteen. Also, the age of consent in Japan is thirteen, sooo I don’t see any problem with it,” he replied.

“WHAT THE HELL DOES AGE OF CONSENT HAVE TO DO WITH FLYING A PLANE???!!” Meiko screamed, ripping her hair out. I really need to stop using scream.

"Umm… with all due respect, Fukase, are you even qualified for this?” Kaito spoke up.

“Yeah, DUH. I’ve had years worth of flight experience from Microsoft Flight Simulator on the Xbox!” he replied. “What kinda dumb shit would hire someone who ISN’T qualified??”

“oH mAN OH GOD OUR LIVES ARE IN THE HANDS OF THAT DUMB KID OH MAN OH GOD OH MAN OH GOD OH MAN OH GOD-“ Meiko was hyperventilating in the corner and hugging her legs, sweat pouring down her face. It was unlike her to freak out like this, she was usually calm and kept her cool. However, this is Fukase we’re talking about, and any rational person would be freaking out and fearing for their lives.

“Breathe, Me-chan, breathe,” Kaito attempted to calm her down. “Don’t worry, okay? Everything’s gonna be just fine. Nothing bad will happen. Everything is okay,” he assured her, hugging her tightly.

“How would YOU know that???” she asked.

“I don’t,” he replied. “When things get rough, denial is all we have,” he said, giving his Stupid Bakaito Grin™.

TO BE CONTINUED MAYBE???1??1

[max-is-tired]

Magic Mirror (Mirror’s Magic) Chapter 2

Pairing: brotherly Logince, future romantic Royality

Characters: Roman Sanders, Deceit Sanders, Logan Sanders (mentioned), Patton Sanders (mentioned)

Words: 2.809

Warnings for this chapter: Angst, Roman angst, implied character death, captivity, magic, morally-grey Deceit Sanders, Roman takes a very brash decision and someone else has to bear the consequences, please tell me if I forgot something

Notes: You guys have no idea how proud I am of this part -I had to split it in two bc it was becoming a monster of a chapter, but this right here?? God, I’m so so happy with how it turned out.

Thank you so much to @tigertigertigger for betaing this chapter and, well, I swear this fic will have a happy ending. It’ll just take a while to get there.

I hope you enjoy your daily dose of angst :)

(This story is heavily inspired by two Vocaloid songs. This chapter -and the next one- are inspired by this song.)

Commission me!!

Read on AO3!!

Go check @keuwibird‘s amazing art for this fic here!!

First || Next

We’ve seen Patton’s story unfold, everything beginning in an inconspicuous little cottage in the woods.

We’ve seen how a simple wish has granted him a second chance, seen how his selflessness brought an entire kingdom, destroyed by war and death, back to its former grandeur.

We’ve seen how Patton was given the most tempting of gifts, the power to bend reality itself right to his fingertips, and chose happiness, kindness, love –and we’ve seen exactly how high of a price he had to pay for it.

“What happens next?” You might ask.

Unfortunately, that is a difficult question to answer. Before we can properly do so, there’s one more tale we need to tell, one more destiny we need to show.

It’s the story of a young boy, born with magic buzzing through his veins and a million dreams running through his head.

It’s the story of a young prince, second son of the late king and queen, destined to serve and protect his kingdom and its people until his last breath.

It’s the story of a young knight, as talented with the sword as his brother is with words, forest green eyes twinkling red when emotions run wild and caramel brown hair always messed up by running in the wind.

It’s a story of magic, of choices, of misery and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of love.

It’s not a happy story, this one –and it all starts with betrayal.

+++

They thought they were prepared for it.

Logan had never been really loved by their so-called allies, even less since their parents died and he took their place on the throne –he’s young and quick-witted, well-versed in the arts of politics and diplomacy.

They couldn’t fool him with treaties and complicated negotiations, they’d learned that soon enough –Roman has had more than once the satisfaction to see that realization dawn on their faces, standing proudly at his brother’s side while barely being able to keep himself from giving them the smuggest smile he can muster.

So yeah, both Logan and Roman have always been very much aware of the fact that most representatives from the neighboring kingdoms aren’t very fond of them. Still, never in a million years could they have predicted it would all come to this.

Roman stares blankly at the ruined blue robe in the guard’s hands, eyes fixed on the dark patches covering the all-too-familiar golden ornaments –that’s Logan’s coat, he would recognize it anywhere, their family’s crest almost impossible to recognize under all the dried blood that’s Logan’s blood those bastards killed his brother-

“My prince,” comes a voice from his side, the captain of the royal guard stepping forward with a gaze as hard as steel and his mouth set into a thin line, “this means war.”

Silence falls in the room, heavy and charged as the prince takes a deep breath and straightens his back. When Roman opens his eyes again, they’re blazing red, a familiar fire burning inside him as his magic rumbles angrily in his soul.

“Then war they’ll have.”

+++

When Roman marches into war, there isn’t a single ounce of doubt or regret in his mind –those bastards have taken his brother away from him, and he’s dead set on making them pay for it dearly, no matter what it will take.

At that moment, he’s more than ready to sacrifice his own kingdom if it means Logan’s murderers will burn down with it. Who cares if he survives it all? At least his brother’s death will be avenged.

Sadly, that’s not what happens.

Their enemy is strong and organized, having meticulously planned for this since the very beginning –Roman’s kingdom has always had a remarkable military force, but with so little time to prepare compared to their opponents, it’s no wonder it goes as bad as it does.

The battle lasts barely a month, the opposing army quickly piercing their defense and pushing them more and more into retreat. It’s not long before they get completely overwhelmed, crushed and defeated.

Roman never admits defeat, not completely –even as his army is decimated right in front of his eyes, even as his kingdom is set ablaze and he’s forced to kneel in front of those he once called allies.

“You will pay for this,” he seethes even as his face is pressed in the mud, magic boiling helplessly in his blood even as the enchanted restraints he has been put in keep it at bay.

“Oh, little prince,” they smile, drunk in their victory as Roman’s home burns to ashes around them, "we'd like to see you try."

Roman roars in anger, kicking and struggling and biting even as two guards haul him to his feet and start dragging him towards his own castle.

"Lock him in one of the towers,", one of the leaders says, waving them away.

"After all, what's a prince without his castle?"

+++

Our story should end here.

It should end with Roman sitting in the sealed tower, left alone to rot away in the place he once called his home.

It should end with Roman trapped forever in the dark, left with the knowledge that his kingdom is in shambles and his brother's death will never be avenged.

That's the end fates had designed for him, this cruel destiny written in the stars from the very moment of his birth, and yet.

And yet.

An uninvited guest knocks at the door.

+++

If you were to ask Roman what he remembers from that fateful night, he would tell you it was dark and stormy outside -and he would be right.

Let's picture it together -thunder and lightning flashing outside, rain pouring from the sky as a lonely prince stares blankly at the ceiling of his cell, wondering when the end will finally come.

Then, a knock comes through the silence, startling him out of his spiraling thoughts.

Roman's first thought goes to the guards tasked with shoving food into the cell -never enough to really satisfy him or leave him at top strength, but just enough to keep him alive and healthy enough to not risk starvation or dehydration.

(He's also pretty sure they periodically slip in some sort of magic suppressant, his powers feeling weak and dormant in his blood, but Roman has figured that would happen the moment they removed the enchanted restraints from his wrists -if that hadn't been the case he would have already blown up the entire tower.)

Then, he frowns and throws a confused look at the tiny excuse of a window hovering several feet over his head -yup, still nighttime, the absolute darkness punctuated by sudden sparks of lightning as the storm outside keeps raging on. And since the sun hasn't risen just yet and he gets food only once when the night comes -which he remembers happening just a few hours prior- Roman's pretty sure that's not a strangely considerate guard, knocking to make their presence known.

So, that begs the question: who is it?

As another knock resounds in the otherwise silent cell, Roman cautiously stands up and quietly shuffles towards the closed door, hoping to somehow gain more clues about whoever is on the other side.

His hand hovers just a few inches from the door, a strange feeling pooling in his stomach as Roman suddenly finds himself hesitating -it's like a pull in his gut, a sense of uneasiness he finds eerily familiar, like a puzzle piece he knows is missing, but can't identify.

The resounding click of a lock coming undone jerks Roman out of his thoughts, sending him staggering backward as the door swings open and a cloaked figure calmly shuffles in.

"Hello, Your Highness," a voice draws from under the cloak, the figure hunching forward in what Roman can only assume is meant to be a bow.

"Who are you?" He asks, standing tall -or as tall as he can, his weakened legs barely holding up his weight as he warily looks at the stranger.

"Oh, I'm nothing but a lonely man seeking cover from the unforgiving weather," the figure hums, "I do hope my presence here is not unwelcome?"

"... No," Roman says after a moment of consideration -there's something about this man, a sensation Roman cannot name but that still makes all of the hair on his body stand up, goosebumps covering his arms as a little voice in the back of his mind warns him to be cautious, "just unexpected. May I ask who do I have the pleasure to talk to?"

"People call me Dee," the man answers "it is a pleasure to meet you, my Prince."

"Oh, please, stop with the formalities," Roman huffs, looking away as he nods to his cell, "as you can see, I am anything but a prince right now."

"And why would that be? You're standing in your castle, and your kingdom and subjects are still out there-"

"Yes, suffering and dying for a war I brought us all in!" Roman exclaims, anger coursing through his veins as he takes one threatening step forward. "And at what cost? We were defeated, utterly annihilated, and now my kingdom is burning under my own eyes and there's nothing I can do to stop it. So no, I am not a prince, because I'm the farthest I can be from deserving that title right now."

The stranger lets out a noncommittal hum, tilting his head to the side as he watches Roman pace angrily around the cell.

Then, he smirks, small, pointed fangs glinting in the dark of the room.

"Who says there is no way for you to change all of this?"

Roman freezes on the spot, his posture tensing as his mind registers the stranger's words.

"Please," he finally answers, shaking his head as a bitter chuckle escapes his lips, "how could that even be possible? I have no army, no friends, no magic. Let's face it-" he turns once again towards Dee, opening his arms as he gestures to his cell- "my fate has been written: to rot alone in this sealed tower -scorned, despised, hated, destined to be forgotten in the sands of time while those who destroyed my home feast and bask in my family's death."

"No destiny is set in stone, Your Highness," Dee counters, smirk never once leaving his lips, "least of all yours. You have a connection, prince Roman, and that connection is the cause of your misfortune."

Roman blinks, confused. "A… connection? To what?"

"Not to what," Dee hums, a hand reaching out from under the cloak as yellow sparks suddenly fill the space just beside him, "to whom."

That's the moment Roman's mind screeches to a halt, the last few minutes playing in his head as the uneasy, cautionary feeling that has been nagging him since the moment the door had opened finally, finally falls into place. Because those sparks are eerily familiar, dancing and falling through the air as a dusty old mirror stands tall at Dee's side, glass glinting in the dark as Roman takes a wary step backward -he's one-hundred percent sure that mirror wasn't there until a few seconds ago, so the only possible explanation is-

"You're a magic user," Roman whispers, eyes wide as his gaze travels back and forth from the mirror to Dee.

"That I am, my prince," the man grins, "did you not realize? You have magic yourself, after all."

"My magic has been severely weakened in order to keep me here -you'll find that it is quite arduous to sense the magic around you when you can just barely feel your own."

"I suppose that makes sense," Dee concedes with a tilt of his head, before gesturing to the mirror, "but let us not dwell on unimportant matters-" he says, beckoning him closer- "do you not want to know the reason of your misfortune?"

Still unsure, Roman warily steps forward until he's standing right in front of the mirror, his reflection staring back at him with confusion evident in his eyes.

Grinning, Dee leans forward and whispers something, the ancient language of the druids of old rolling effortlessly on his tongue as the air around them suddenly feels charged -like something ancient and incredibly, incredibly powerful is slowly awakening in that lonely tower surrounded by the fires of destruction. It's a foreign feeling, so far away from the sense of security Roman is used to when in presence of magic -and he knows, he knows that should render him far warier about Dee and whatever he's trying to show him, there's a voice in the back of his head that sounds a lot like Logan yelling at him how he should step away immediately, this isn't normal, you don't know what is happening-

And yet.

And yet.

Roman doesn't look away. He keeps standing there, as if trapped in a trance, as the mirror's surface starts glowing, lighting up the room for a few seconds and making Roman close his eyes on instinct when the light just becomes too much to look at.

When he opens his eyes again, Roman can't help the surprised gasp tumbling out of his mouth, gaze transfixed on the mirror's reflection as he tries to properly register what he's seeing.

From the surface of the mirror, a young boy lets out a delighted laugh, his blonde hair reflecting sunlight Roman can't see as pure happiness dances in his eyes -blue like the sky on a sunny day, Roman distantly notes, glinting with joy from behind a pair of big, round glasses.

"Who… is that?" Roman asks, not quite able to conceal the way his voice has almost turned breathy in his stupor.

"In the world through the mirror, everything is set in reverse," Dee reveals, "this boy's fate is deeply intertwined with yours -his happiness is your sadness, his luck is your misery, his kingdom's peace?" The magician looks at Roman, smirking widely as he watches the realization of his words' meaning dawn on him, "your kingdom's destruction."

Roman takes a step back, face pale as realization gives the place to horror. "That can't be true."

"And yet, it is," Dee says, shrugging, "fate chose to give him a happy, fulfilling life and carelessly throw you aside. Such a pity, isn't it?"

"That's-" Roman's breath is quick now, heart hammering in his chest doubt and fear swirl and clash in his mind- "that's not fair!"

"It isn't, isn't it?" Dee agrees, "you could have been great, given the chance to prove your worth. And yet, fate preferred that boy over you -it took away your brother, your kingdom, your happiness, just to give that fortunate boy a destiny that should've been yours. What a shame, really."

Roman clenches his fists, taking in a few deep breaths -he wants to scream and cry and curse at the universe, Dee's words echoing in his head over and over as rage rushes through his veins. But he can't let himself go just yet, not as long as the mysterious magician is standing in front of him and watching his every move.

"Why are you telling me all this?" He asks instead, voice surprisingly steady as a storm rages inside him -he can distantly feel his magic react to his emotions, thrumming deep inside him as it pushes and slams against whatever is keeping his powers locked away.

"As I said, no destiny is set in stone," Dee answers with a grin, "that happiness was yours, and it is only right that I help you get it back, is it not?"

Roman frowns, keeping his expression schooled even as he can feel a spark of hope make its way into his chest. "And how would you do that?"

"Just say the word, my prince, and everything your heart yearns for will be finally yours."

Deafening silence falls in the dark cell, the air charged with a million possibilities as Roman finds himself with his heart's greatest desire standing right in front of him.

He looks at the boy's blue eyes, his smile shining like a thousand suns, and feels something inside himself harden into stone, nodding his head towards Dee.

The magician lets out a boisterous laugh, yellow sparks dancing all around him as the mirror's reflection darkened and disappeared.

"Your wish is my command, Your Highness!" He exclaims, magic whooshing around Roman as his own seems to react to it -he can almost feel the familiar tingling sensation traveling up to his fingertips, warmth flowing through his soul as yellow magic fills his vision.

"The scales of destiny have been replaced!" Dee announces as Roman feels his consciousness start to fade.

"So forget everything, my prince-" a fanged grin, green scales shining in the light as Dee's cloak falls away- "and rejoice."

A single, yellow eye meets Roman's gaze.

Then, darkness falls.

[meiluka-enthusiast]

Curtain Call part 3

--Thursday, November 1st, 20XX--

--Luka--

All of us get up early to pack the next morning. Although we aren't leaving until after lunch, we need to make sure everything is shipshape.

Asuka and Hinata are renting us a bus for transportation. We have to pack canned or nonperishable foods to eat, since we won't be staying in any hotels and won't have enough money to always eat out.

I get my suitcase from its place in the closet and look at the packing list I have on my phone. Choosing outfits is easy, it's deciding what extra things to bring for entertainment that's hard.

Once I finish packing, I head downstairs for breakfast. The others are already there, except Meiko. For some reason I feel uncomfortable when she's not around. Maybe it's because I trust her more than the others. We grew up together, went through the same things.

I sit down at the table and run my fingers silently over my earrings. One memory of Meiko that I always recall is the first time we escaped from our captor. I remember running after her in the rain to an abandoned summer camp that she used to go to when it was in business. She stopped in front of one of the burnt-up cabins and I remember how much she cried. She always said that camp was the only place she felt safe.

I am torn away from my thoughts as I feel someone cover my eyes and chuckle. I can tell by his stronger voice who he is. "Good morning, Gakupo." I say as he takes his hands away. His eyes seem to smile in the morning sunlight coming through the window.

"Did you sleep well?" He sets a cup of coffee in front of me and takes a seat beside me.

"Yeah, I slept well. You?" I sip the coffee and close my eyes.

"Snug as a bug in a rug," he chuckles and then walks off into the kitchen.

As I look off into the hallway, I feel my face go red. Even in her old T-shirt and athletic shorts, Meiko is beautiful.

"Morning, everyone. Morning, Luka." She places a soft kiss on my cheek and then plops into the chair beside mine with a grin. "What's poppin'?"

I hear Miki laugh from the kitchen. "Meiko, nobody says that anymore!" Daina calls. I can't help but laugh along with them. Even Flower, who usually looks like she wants to kill us, is smiling.

Everyone seems to be dressed in a casual way, or in their own quirky sense of style. Flower is wearing a white blouse and grey shorts with suspenders from one of her songs. Dex is wearing a pair of grey sweatpants and a band tee. Daina and Miki are matching, both wearing a teal top and white cutoff shorts. SeeU and Piko are wearing their usual outfits. Kaito is wearing a navy blue T-shirt and brown pants, Gakupo is wearing a gray shirt and jeans, and I'm wearing a pastel green tunic and black leggings.

Breakfast is quieter than normal, as everyone is thinking about what they're doing. Dex, Miki, Daina and Flower are staying home because apparently they get bad travel anxiety and would rather chill than tour. The rest of us are leaving this afternoon, excited.

As soon as we finish breakfast, Asuka and Hinata knock at the door. Meiko stands up and lets them in quickly.

"Good morning, everyone! Before we begin loading up, I have an important announcement!" Asuka calls. "Dex, Daina, Flower, Miki. You four are leaving Curtain Call."

The four of them grinned and stood. Dex cleared his throat. "Sorry guys, I just don't think we're cut out for music." He smirked a bit and led the other three out of the house.

I frowned. Dex seemed...mean. It was quite surprising, as he had always been at least okay to all of us. I guess he was tired of who we were...but, I mean, why quit being a Vocaloid? Then again, he was never too interested in singing.

If they had just been going to join the normal Vocaloids, I bet SeeU would have gone with them. The only reason she's still in Curtain Call is because Piko needs her. Part of me is disgusted at that, but I shouldn't be...because I feel the same way about Meiko as Piko does about SeeU.

"Luka! Quit staring into space like that!" SeeU giggled. I looked up, taken away from my thoughts, and sighed.

"May I be excused?" I spoke quietly, standing up and picking up my plate.

"Go ahead." Gakupo smiled at me. "I'll put your dishes in the sink."

I nodded and went out of there, into my small bedroom. I opened my suitcase and double-checked that I had everything I needed. Once I was sure, I zipped my suitcase and took out my backpack. All I needed was my cards, some books, and my coloring/sketch book.

It didn't take long to finish packing. I sighed and curled up on my bed, looking at the photo on the nightstand. It was a photo of me and Meiko when we were little, petting a kitten we'd found in the park.

There's a knock on the door and Asuka pokes her head in. "Hey, Luka. Everything okay?" She comes in and sits down by me.

I nod. "Everything's fine. I just needed to finish packing."

"Okay then. Can I load your stuff in the RV?"

"You rented an RV?"

"It belongs to Hinata's parents."

I shrug. "Go ahead. I'm coming out anyway." She nods and picks up my bags, carrying them out of the room. I follow a bit later, messing with the black-and-teal bracelet on my wrist.

"Everyone ready to go?" Hinata calls from the door to the garage.

"Ready!" I call. The four of us head outside and get in Asuka's van. Hinata will be driving his car behind us, with the RV in tow. Kaito will be going with him to help with navigation. The only one still missing is Meiko.

I turn back to the house just in time to see her exit. She looks beautiful. Her earrings were golden in the sun. She's dressed now, wearing a white tunic with black leggings and a rose pin in her hair.

As she locks the door, she grins at all of us and runs to join us by the van. Seating arrangement was done easily. Gakupo sat in front with Asuka, Piko and SeeU in the back, and Meiko sat in the middle with me.

As Asuka put the van in drive, I felt a wave of anxiety. I had people that I needed to see. Or did I?

No. I didn't. Not since a few years ago. And hopefully never again.

I never wanted to do anything like that. I never wanted Meiko or Gakupo to do it either.

I hate what we've been through. I hate it desperately. I know Meiko does too, because she'll talk to herself about it. She tends to talk to herself often, more so when she's mad. I feel bad for her, because she has such strong emotions and doesn't know how to express them. I don't know how to express myself either, so I just keep quiet.

I hear the others having a conversation about friendships. Talking about the benefits and drawbacks of things, or past friendships.

All of a sudden, Meiko turns and snaps at them. "Friendships are overrated and stupid. And even when you do have someone you really trust, when you really need them they'll fucking betray you."

Everyone turned to her. "Shut up Meiko, we were just talking. You didn't need to ruin it by being such a bitch." SeeU hissed.

"Fuck off, ASSHOLE," Meiko shot back.

"G-Guys, let's not fight..." Piko murmured.

"I agree with Piko," I say softly. It brings everyone back to silence.

-----

That night, I lie awake on the pullout couch in the RV. Meiko snores softly next to me.

I just can't sleep. Maybe I'm nervous about our first performance tomorrow...or maybe I'm scared our group will fall apart. I sigh and try to clear my mind, rolling over and turning my back to Meiko. I'm tired of being clingy and shy...weak.

Maybe I can be stronger, just maybe...

[djddueces]

An Idol in Teal, Chapter 1

Hey guys. I wanted to ask you something. I wrote this years ago, and I’m only just finding it now, nostalgia hitting me, me crying like a little baby (kind of lol). If you have the time to read this, tell me what you think of it, and feedback is greatly appreciated. I am trying to be a journalist, and by writing like this, I think it will help me.  

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Miku, we’re ready for your mic check,” yelled Luka from backstage. The pink haired beauty trotted over to the audio panel.

“Hai! One sec!” said the teal haired diva. She picked up a microphone and walked onto stage. She looked at the empty seats that would be filled up within the hour. Every time she got up on stage, she felt as if her stomach had butterflies in it. She wanted nothing more than to sing to her heart’s content to her loyal fans.

“Luka, ready when you are!” Miku yelled towards backstage. The microphone made a humming noise, indicating that Luka had heard Miku’s request. Miku took a deep breath and sighed into the microphone.

“Hey Luka, if you can hear me, isn’t this crazy? I mean we’re just two average girls who flew halfway across the world to the most famous city in the world. Actually, forget that. TO THE USA! Who would have ever thought I would be doing some kind of mini World Tour like this. It’s surreal. Also, pardon my language I’m just really happy about all of this! Thinking about my life, it’s been such a roller coaster. I’ve had my ups, my downs, my blackouts, my fights, but most importantly, I’m doing what I love. I couldn’t be happier right now.” Miku sat down on the edge of the stage and standing behind her was Luka, who sat down next to the girl with the pigtails.

“Well, you ARE Hatsune Miku you idiot. Everyone loves you. Seriously, what’s up with that? You know I joined your little “group” just so I could get more famous than you.” She sneered and tilted her head away from Miku, who just snickered in response.

“How is this my fault?” Miku giggled. “You WANTED to join me. If I remember correctly, you were all “MIKU LET ME JOIN AND DO A SONG WITH YOU I CAN PROVE IM A BETTER SINGER THAN YOU!” Man, the tears that were rolling down your face was too funny.” She continued to laugh, which just angered Luka.

“Listen you little shit, you wouldn’t be where you are today, and you owe me!” She scowled at Miku. Miku stared up at the ceiling, as if this was some magical anime moment where something sentimental was about to happen. That or a wind would come out of nowhere and over exaggerate the whole scene.

“You’re absolutely correct. I wouldn’t. Not without you, without Len and Rin, Meiko and Kaito. Even the other Vocaloids like Gumi and IA and Yukari. All of you have taught me so much….” She placed her face into her palms. Tears formed at the edge of her eyes. Thinking about all of this caused her to become emotional, and the only one she could really cry in front of besides her mother, was Luka.

“Miku, please don’t cry.” She wrapped her arms around Miku and stroked her hair.

“Everyone’s moved on with their lives. I mean, I know Gumi and IA are around for me still, and there’s the other up and coming Vocaloids, but I miss the original crew. And soon, how do I know that I you’ll still be around Luka? Everyone else left, so how do I know that you’ll still be around. Why am I even thinking about this right now? I shouldn’t be crying over the past…..” She continued to sob as Luka hugged her.

“This is the life of an idol. It’s the life YOU chose. You have to take the good with the bad, and turn it into something positive. You’re creative, you’re talented, and you’re amazingly perfect in every way Miku.” Luka blushed.

“Are you…trying to hit on me or….?” Miku wiped away her tears and glanced up at Luka, curiously. Her eyes were like kaleidoscopes. They glimmered in the stage light due to the leftover tears still engulfed in her eyes. Luka retaliated and pushed Miku away, her words and face flustered.

“Idiot, what are you saying?!?”

‘I’m saying that you’re hitting on me. Do you want to be lesbian lovers? I mean, I’m cool with that and all, and if we are, I’m glad it’s you.” Miku gave no hesitation in her answer, speaking almost as if it sounded believable.

“MIKU HATSUNE WHAT THE HELL?!”

“I dunno, just a thought.”

“Miku, you know you’re like a sister to me right?”

“Ah, friendzoned, the classic.”

Luka sighed and stood up. “Come back to me when you’ve gotten more mature.”

“NO LUKA DON’T LEAVE ME IN MY TIME OF NEED!” She pounced on Luka like a cat and clinged to her waist.”

“GET OFF OF ME! How do you go from happy, to sad, and now to excited?? You are so weird Miku it’s not even funny…..”

“Heh heh, excited.”

“OH GROW UP BITCH.” She stormed off the stage, returning to her dress up counter backstage. Miku scratched her head and yelled towards the backstage.  

“NO LUKA COME LOVE ME!” but Luka ignored her. “Seriously, I was just trying to cheer myself up.” Miku looked around once more at the empty ballroom. “I never noticed how pretty Hammerstein is. New York City itself is gorgeous, but there are also the people that give me the creeps.” Goosebumps trailed down her shoulders and a she shuddered.

“Luka is right though, I choose the idol life.” She hopped off stage and towards the back entrance of the ballroom, where hundreds of fans would rush into soon to see her perform. She peaked through the little crack in the door to see if the coast was clear to venture around. It was empty. Slowly, she pushed open the door, which creaked slightly. She walked into the hall, where her merchandise stand was still on display.

“I want a hat of me.” She took the hat out of the box behind the counter, and put it on. She proceeded to take out her phone and open the front facing camera.

“Haha, selfie time.” Just as she was about to snap the picture, a tall figure stood behind her.

“What do you think you’re doing?” said the tall figure, his voice deep and intimidating.

“Umm, selfie time?” Said Miku jokingly.

“What’s with the hat?” He pointed to Miku’s head.

“Ummmm, I’m wearing myself? You know I’m Hatsune Miku right??”

“How do I know that?”

“Wanna check my ID?” She searched for her wallet, which she couldn’t find. “Oh damn I must have left it back stage.”

“Uh huh. Come with me missy.” He snatched the hat from her head and threw it back in the box.

“IM SERIOUS! IM HATSUNE MIKU!!” She screamed, but almost immediately covered her hand with her mouth. She didn’t want the crowd outside to hear her. Who knows what would happen if they found out that Hatsune Miku was live and unguarded. The thought made her fear for her life. She loved her fans and all, but with the good also comes that bad, and she didn’t want to meet the bad.

“I’ll give you one chance to prove it. How do I know you’re REALLY Miku?” The tall figure, who was actually one of the bodyguards from the ballroom, folded his hands across his chest and sneered at her.

“Dude, seriously? Wipe that weird look off your face. It’s creeping me out.” She took out her phone again and dialed a number.

“You’re lucky I’m giving you a chance, don’t tempt me lady.” The phone started ringing and a familiar voice was on the other line.

“Hello?” said the familiar voice.

“OH GOOD LUKA! Thank you for picking up!”

“Huh? Miku? What’s going on? Where are you? Did you get yourself into trouble again?

“E GASP LUKA! Why I never! Why would you accuse me on such grounds?”

“Because I KNOW you Miku. You always wander about and do stupid things and then I come bail you out like always.” She sighed and Miku knew she was facepalming by the “smack” noise that she heard on the other line. “What do you need me to do now, Hime-sama Miku??”

“Here’s the story. So I wanted to get my mind off of what we were discussing before. I strolled around and took a look outside. I got curious about my merchandise here and took one of my own hats and baldy here caught me and is accusing me of grand larceny and I need you to come here and prove to him that I’m Hatsune Miku and not some fan with a wig before he throws me in the slammer and makes me clean bathrooms for a living, okay? Okay. Thanks hun. Love you!”

“Baldy?!” said the bodyguard. Miku chuckled nervously.

“Not happening,” said Luka.

“WAIT? EH!? WHY NOT!?” Miku went into a panic frenzy.

“Because you said we were lesbian lovers and I do not approve against some heinous accusations.” She was about to hang up, but Miku’s constant pleas were annoying Luka, and she eventually succumbed to temptation.

“FINE. Holy shit, shuddup!” Luka screamed and Miku had to pull the phone away from her ear since Luka screamed so loud she might blow her eardrum off.

“Heh heh, you’re picking up a New York accent. I think it’s sexy. Rarwl.” She bursted into laughter but there was no one on the other side of the line. Luka had hung up.

“Huh? Hey? Luka? Luuukkkkkaaaa? DON’T LEAVE ME IM TOO YOUNG TO DIE IN PRISON!” Miku got onto her knees and held out her hands. “Take me away coppa I’ve been a bad girl.” He grabbed her arm and picked her up.

“I know that voice anywhere. That’s the real Luka. And you’re the real Miku. I’m sorry for accusing you….” He bowed his head.

“It’s no worries. I just didn’t want to be cooped up in that ballroom. I mean, it’s beautiful and all, but I really want to explore New York City. I’ve been here before in 2014 when I did my first ever show here, but was confined to a very tight schedule filled with guest appearances and photo shoots and I really never got time to spend alone in the city, ya know? Man, guess I’m picking up your accents huh?”

The bodyguard handed Miku her hat back. “But don’t you have a show soon? You can’t disappoint your fans can you?”

“No, I meant after my two shows here. Sadly, I’m departing from here tomorrow morning. I can still spend one more night here. I always wanted to know what a Saturday night in New York City feels like, but since my show lets out late just like in 2014, I don’t think I’ll have time to.” She slouched her shoulders. “Man, I need a vacation.” Interested in her story, the bodyguard walked towards the ballroom doors.

“They’ll be letting people in soon. About an hour right?” He looked at his watch. It’s 12:30. VIP ticket holders are about to enter. And you’re show starts and 1:30, but you have someone else as your opening act, correct?

Miku nodded. “Yeah, Anamanaguchi, so what?”

“Well,” the bodyguard continued, “that means you won’t start until about 2:15-2:30 since your show initially starts at around 1:30. Since concerts never start on time, we’ll say around 1:45. I’d love to hear about your backstory.”

Miku was shocked. Never once has someone been curious about what her childhood was like and all the struggles it took to get here. A small smile crossed her face and she was really happy. She had so much pent up energy and she wanted to rant but no one would ever listen to her.

“But why?” Miku asked curiously.

“Honestly, to kill time,” the bodyguard said straightforwardly.

“Thanks….” Miku said sarcastically.

“Not only that, but I never get to do shows with idols like you. Most here are stuck up and crazy. But you, I can tell you’re not like that, and deep down, you’re caring and have a lot of sympathy for the ones around you. You’re different.” Miku’s smile was obvious now, and she started tearing up again.

“I haven’t heard someone talk about me like that in a long time that’s not named Luka or my mom. Thank you, er, what’s your name?” She looked around for some kind of ID, a nametag specifically, but found nothing.

“You can call me Jasper,” the bodyguard said.

“OOOH, cool name, and you already know mine,” she giggled. Jasper stood up and pointed upstairs. Come on, I know a place where we can chat quietly. Plus, your fans will be entering soon.” Miku nodded and stood up, following Jasper. They walked up the stairs, and down a long hallway, which led to another flight of stairs. Another hallway soon after led to the upper-most level of the ballroom.

“WOAH! I can see my house from here!” Miku said, jokingly. “But wait; won’t fans be coming here also soon??”

“Yes, in about a half an hour, but we’re not staying here, follow me.” At the back of the upper-most level was a small room, which looked to be some kind of mini-bar that was built into the ballroom. “Come, we can talk here.” Without hesitation, Miku continued to follow along. The room was small and comfy. In the middle was a small bar, filled with all kinds of different assortments of drinks, from kid-friendly such as Coca-Cola and Hi-C to hard liquor like Jack Daniels. Miku could sure use a drink right now.

Surrounding the back of the room were couches with coffee tables. To the inner-most part of the room near the entrance, were small dining tables, no larger than the size of a desk. Jasper directed Miku to one of the tables and sat down.

“We should be fine here. We’re out of sight. If someone comes in, they’re gonna have to look pretty hard at you to see who you are unlike if we sat at the other end of the room where we’re exposed and everyone can see easily.”

“I guess you have a point.” Miku eyed the bar, but knew she would have to wait to guzzle anything down until after her show. She didn’t want to be drunk on stage after all.

“So what do you want to know about me? My name is Hatsune Miku, I’m an idol, I sing, I dance, I do commercials. I’m basically like a puppet that can’t cut its strings loose from this industry.” She folded her hands and sat upright. “I understand I choose this lifestyle, but sometimes it can drain me, both physically and emotionally. I need a break, but I’m doing show after show after show. I’m tired man.”

Jasper looked at Miku not with sympathy, but more of curiosity. “So how goes it?”

“How goes what?” Miku said with one eyebrow up.

“How did the famous Hatsune Miku come to be? What motivated her? What got her in the clear? How did she become “Hatsune Miku?” That is your real name right?”

“YES, that IS my name,” she said sarcastically.

“Sorry, but you know how other singers like to change their names for some reason.”

“Yeah dude I know….They’re dumb. I try not to associate myself with people who are don’t even know their own identity.” Jasper let out a hardy laugh.

“For someone who seems to be so nice, you also have anger issues.” Miku kicked him from under the table and pouted.

“So you really want to know all about me? I guess this is some kind of interview, or oral biography.” Miku nodded her head and folded her arms, smiling confidently.

“Well, here goes. The life of me, the most famous idol, HATSUNE MIKU!”

[fictionerd]

Good to see you, friends!

“WHAT’S THIS!? This isn’t Uma Musume! Fictionerd! Explain yourself!”

Well. I watched this week’s Uma Musume and as I did I had this sinking sensation. The episode didn’t really move me to dig in depth into it the way I have my other long-form posts. So I instead went to watch this week’s episode of Caligula and scrape my scales and call me Seath if it wasn’t about a thousand times better. So let’s all take a deep dive into Episode six of Caligula.

WARNING! I ENGAGE IN A LOT OF SPECULATION THAT MAY BE OFF THE MARK. I REPEAT A COUPLE TIMES IN THE POST BELOW, BUT LET’S GO AHEAD AND GET IT RIGHT OUT FRONT! PLEASE NO SPOILERS FOR THE STORY MOVING FORWARD FROM THOSE WHO’VE PLAYED THE GAME(S). THANK YOU.

We open on Mu preparing the first song of the night aimed at activating the digi-heads and allowing the Musicians to combat the rogues. We get an inkling of how she’s being manipulated by this Thorn character. Her Utopia has been hijacked by the musicians who seem intent upon living within their own delusions for all eternity.

We then get a series of quick establishing scenes showing the various characters and the situations they open in. Ritsu, Kotaro, and Kotono are still at the weird water-world place facing down Dom lady. Mifue and Naruko are where we left them last episode: with the first fake mom Mifue had in Mobius. Suzuna has run into newcomer Izuru and together they are cornered by another of the Musicians who has watched too many action movies and dual-wields massive sub-machine guns. Shogo just barely escapes the digi-heads by ducking into an elevator. We get a brief flash of what appears to be a girl jumping off a building before the elevator stops to reveal the white-haired speaker kid from the first episode. It seems like everyone who’s noticed the world is the matrix is in deep trouble.

After the OP we jump right back into the action with Kotono using her Catharsis effect to fight Dom Lady. The results are lack-luster with Dom flat-out batting away every arrow Kotono throws at her, even when she throws up to four at a time. They take a break from fighting to compare Mobius to an aquarium. Kotono’s all like, “This whole place is fake. I want my real crappy life back!” Dom lady snorts and says, “You’re a moron. Why would you want that sucky real world where you have to work for stuff when you could just stay here and let Mu brainwash you into thinking everything is absolutely perfect?”

I don’t know about Kotono, but my immediate response would be something along the lines of: “Because living in a world where everything is just handed to you is completely asinine, and would lead to the sort of stagnation you normally only get from full-on clinical depression.”

Enough of that scene, though, let’s catch up with Mifue and Naruko. They try calling Shogo to no avail. Sorry, ladies, he’s found himself in a situation he can’t just “cut” out of. You know how it is. You run into an acquaintance from school and they just demand you “Shoot the shit” with them. (I brought up his scene early just to make those puns and I’m not sorry).

Crazy, Pixie Dude shows up and is all like, “Hey you two. Since you know my secret identity I’m going to shame you for your own petty sorrows. Glasses-chick wants to be internet-famous and blandy hates fat people, right? Ooh I do love touching nerves. What you mad? Too bad you can do jack all about it!” 

I have serious concerns about the directions they might take this guy in because of the whole “overweight dude living as a cute girl thing”. That’s one fucking minefield of a subject matter that I’d prefer to avoid until and unless we learn more about why he went with that. Depending on how it shakes out there could be some serious problems there. (Oh who am I kidding? There’s going to be serious problems with that character regardless.)

Once more I feel the need to alert those who’ve played the games ahead of time: NO SPOILERS PLEASE. I don’t CARE how the game handled it, because I’m watching the anime.

Okay! Enough of that aside: Back to the fight between Kotono and Dom. They basically continue their conversation from before and Kotono’s ranged attacks continue to be largely ineffectual. I’ve gotta say she seems to have gotten the “Shaft” on this particular matchup. (Jesus why am I doing this?) 

Kotaro tries to get Aria to Cathars him up some beatin sticks, but she’s all like. “Sorry, bro, you’ve not got enough edge to work with.”  Ritsu, realizing that they’re basically dead weight advises him to run and he’s all like, “But why?” 

“Because they keep damaging those tanks and I don’t want to drown, That’s Why!” So they do and then we cut to the source of my puns from before where Crazy-eyes White-hair is trying to make several points to Shogo all at once with what appears to less be a sword and more a collection of random serrations. Fortunately Shogo’s Dirty Harry special is a functional parrying weapon, but his stance is basically shit so he keeps getting thrown around. 

I’m seriously confused as to why he’s suddenly at such a disadvantage. Isn’t he somewhat experienced at this? Shouldn’t he at least be able to keep his footing?

Whatever, We jump back to Thorn and Mu who kinda snaps out of a trance.

“Girl whose name is not at all suspicious, why does it feel like the people I brought to my stately pleasure dome are all in pain and anguish?” “We call it tough love.” “Okay then, if you say so.”

And we move on. Wannabe Action Star has cornered Suzuna and Izuru and tries to be all intimidating just to strike out horribly and make Izuru look badass for just staring the punk down as a bullet grazes his cheek. (I’m assuming he got better build up to his introduction in the game. That or I just didn’t notice him in the insanity that were the opening episodes of the series.

At this point the various scenes from around Mobius start to converge in their tone. It’s essentially - 

Musicians: This world is perfect! We don’t have to worry about things being hard or frustrating ever again! Rogues: That’s just running away. Sure I may regret this decision later, but I’d rather take a chance at having something real than play pretend forever! Musicians: It’s not pretend so long as we stay here it’s all real! RAAAR

The reason we see the scenes basically bleed together is because Aria is suddenly getting a serious mainline of feels from all the protagonists. She hovers up into the air and begins to glow with an awesome power. “I can feel it! Everyone’s Existential Angst is flowing into me. OH NO!”

And she gets pwned by the shockwave off Dom-lady’s mace. Kotaro runs over to her. We see Mu realizing her friend is still around, but that’s over fast. Then Kotaro picks Aria up and gets teary-eyed, Presumably out of fear that he’ll never get to see what she looks like as a human-proportioned Vocaloid rather than a chibi. Dom calls him a weakling and he’s like, “No I’m not [emphatic pause] Yes I am.” [Sob] Then a few not-so-manly tears fall down his cheeks and splash onto Aria who’s all like, “NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL EDGE!”

She turns into an orange star of “Battle Them” and everyone follows the light while internally screaming in anguish. Aria bundles up all those Feels and everyone but Ritsu undergoes the Catharsis transformation at once. The sudden realization that so many people didn’t like playing in her doll house makes Mu’s record skip before she, too, gives in to the edge. With ten minutes left in the episode we get our title card and all the protags are like, “Sweet threads! Thanks, Aria, now we can whoop some ass.” 

And that’s exactly what they do. Maybe I’m just spoiled from watching Megalo Box last night, but up until this point I didn’t think the fighting in this had been much to write home about, but the big battle at the end between the Rogues and the Musicians was pretty cool.  I sort of want to skip to the end at this point, but there’s something I need to touch on first. Remember when I mentioned Shogo’s Elevator flashback? The main reason I remember it is because when he’s asked why he wants to go back to the real world so bad he says “Because I’m a Murderer.”

Again No Spoilers! but I can’t help suspecting that he’s blaming himself for something he didn’t have much power to stop. Okay, subject addressed back to the fight.

Ritsu’s the only one who hasn’t impaled himself on his feels, and he’s struggling with this whole “Determination to keep fighting” thing. Everyone around him doesn’t just want to go home, they’re fighting for it. Just as he’s wondering what exactly he is and what he could have to fight for Mu descends from the heavens. She’s basically having a mental breakdown because she doesn’t understand why everyone won’t just let her make them happy. She’s taken all their pain and suffering and made them her problem. That sort of Empathy and desire to help others is admirable, but she’s handling it in the absolute wrong way. She’s trying to help them forget about their pains rather than face them. She’s basically gotten to the point where she’s angry at them for not being grateful for what she’s done. She doesn’t realize that she’s ultimately done more harm than good.

When she just LOSES IT! Words don’t suffice. It needs to be WATCHED. 

So she starts overflowing with all the negative emotions she’s been taking from everyone and bottling up inside herself. She can’t hold back and has to lash out. Ritsu sees this, but not I think as the threat everyone else might see it as. He sees the pain that Mu’s in. He sees how misguided and delusional her quest is, and this gives him his motivation. He’s going to stand against Mobius, not for himself, but for her sake. Maintaining Mobius is obviously doing just as much harm to Mu as it is to everyone she’s keeping brainwashed.

So Ritsu fires a massive FEELS BEAM at the giant ball of EDGE Mu has accumulated and seemingly dissipates it. As Thorn flies(?) off with Mu in her arms Mu calls Ritsu a Jerk.

Post-credits scene all the Rogues decide to team up and officially name themselves the “Go-Home Club”. (Which honestly is probably the best and worst pun of them all).

Question! How the heck are you supposed to use club activities to “hide” what you’re doing? The Musicians know who you all are already! What are you worried about sucking other people in? Why? 

Ugh, I guess I’ll find out as things go on. Now, if you’ll excuse me, this post may be late getting to bed, but so am I. Hopefully the next two days of playing catch-up will go smoother than this.

Until next post, keep talking fiction, friends! I’ll see you soon.

[fallen--lilith]

Fate Chapter 3

I am so sorry for not phyically uploading these up on Tumblr. 

Word Count: 1086

This will have Evangelion elements because it has become an important show in my life. Not only has it helped my mental health ( wtf I know right but trust me). But it has help introduced me to more great friends!! I love the idea of angels not being cheeky winged humanoids, but rather ominous beings of the universe. Who knows I might throw in some Vocaloid song references for ol' time sakes. (My first major fanfic was literally a Transformers fanfic that had chapters based on Vocaloid music.) * Please make sure to reblog  this or  send in asks if you have interesting theories how this will progress. ( Not because I need ideas to progress I promise! ToT) * From this point on, things will get a little complicated with terms such as angels, ( not the race like Whis, but these angels will be well…haunting beings.) Their voice will be in bold italics.

Chapter 3- A Familiar Ceiling; A Familiar Body

"Are you lonely?”

Two hands laid on her lower stomach. Its touch was soft. The Saiyan woman was underwater...it tasted like iron. She wasn't  drowning nor was she breathing. She just existed in this orange liquid. “Of course not I have my friends, family and teammates.”

“Are you lonely?”

“No." The young woman repeated back at the voice, frustrated.

“Then why do you fight alone if you are a team?”  “ I have to get strong to get the job done. I have to make my father proud.”

“Why?”

“He’s done so much for me.”

“Why?”

“To make him proud of me.”

“Why?”

“I love him.”

“WHY?”

Peppa knew the answer. She wouldn’t say it out loud.

The hands at this point cupped her face as if she was made of porcelain. There was no face to this being of this touch. It  was a touch she longed for. A touch of desire… A touch that had care and concern in it.  

It was in his voice that it finally spoke. "Is that why you need My Praise? To gain something that your father won’t give? To feed into your self-deception, woman?  Pathetic."

The gloved hands wrapped around her neck and was squeezing it tightly. Peppa gripped the Elite’s hands trying to pry them off her. But it was useless.

"STOP IT! THAT’S NOT TRUE! STOP IT!”

Peppa yelled as she sat up straight waking suddenly. Cold sweat running down her swollen face. She panted heavily as she stared up at the familiar ceiling. She went through her mental checklist. The room  looked familiar, her quarters on her ship. She was safe. The clock read that it was morning standard time. She was sore still from the cafeteria fight a few days ago, but her body parts were accounted for. She could breathe….she felt physical...Peppa was alive… for now. The young Saiyan plopped back into her bed and stared at the familiar ceiling. "I'm still alive huh." She whispered to herself.  

"Peppa! Are you alright?!" She gaze shifted to the door that had opened.  It was Sutal, her older twin sister.

"Uh… yeah…" the younger twin replied and wiped the sweat off her face. "It… was a nightmare… that's all. "

"Do you want to talk about it? They seem to be becoming more frequent. Ever since you… you know." Sutal walked in and felt her sister's head for a temperature. She felt normal.

"These dreams...are luring me back to from which we came. Isn't it terrible I can't even look at my friend without wondering if it's the angel…I hear it in his voice all the time."  Peppa confessed while avoiding her sister's gaze and continued to stare at the ceiling. “Even his…” she couldn’t finish the sentence.

Sutal’s sister's words were concerning…where was this home she always referred to.  She decided to change the subject.  "How about after landing we get you to a nice relaxing healing chamber hm? Then we can hit a bar and the market. It's pointless to walk around with that mug. Mom would kill me if she saw your face!"

Peppa shook her head and moved the covers over her head. “No. I hate the smell. It’s disgusting. It's too much like blood and it sticks to your skin for a month." The young sister moaned.

Sutal couldn’t help but laugh. No matter their age or  how many promotions Peppa got, she was still her little sister. "Well, we have an hour before we land.”

“What?! Shit.” Peppa flipped the covers off and quickly put her boots and armor on. She was kind of glad she went to bed in her clothes.

“I’ll leave it to you, baby sissy!” Sutal said before she left for the main deck.

Peppa finished adjusting her armor before tying her unruly hair into a ponytail with her red bandana. That's the latest fashion right? Ugh. She looked stupid. “I have to do this. A new me, a new style.” She huffed to herself before she left her cabin. A new me…

Peppa waited a few seconds before stepping over the threshold of the hall into the control room. Her team was diligently working the computers .

“Ah! Captain! I’m glad you’re finally awake.” Teeb said, one of her subordinates. They got up and handed her a tablet.“ We’ve been getting strange readings. Could the planet be under attack and we’re getting residual energy?”

“We would have gotten distress calls. Unless... neverminded .” Peppa corrected them. “It seems as though it’s some type of scanning system...the repetition? It’s pulses.” She tapped a few buttons to put the readings into a video. Step by step the waves moved as though there was a heartbeat of a sort. It went out, then in. Then it went out further than previously. It took her strength not to freeze in sight of the pattern. “Did the Frieza Force  deploy checkmark satellites? Did any other sensors go off?”

“No Ma'am.” Teeb replied. “Could it be from a nearby planet?”

“The nearest is Nyanco...they’re not to type to get outside help...they got some god to help them. Hmph...this is bad. Let's be extra careful where we go, how we chart, everything…Teeb see if you can pinpoint an epicenter. Maiz, send a notice out to the other Saiyan ships. Maybe they’ll  have an idea of what’s going on. But whatever we do, do not mention possible satellites, the elites will  just puff their tails up and cause more trouble with Lord Frieza.  Other than that we continue the course to Planet Vegeta. ”

“Aye, Captain.” Maiz said.

Sutal stepped by her sister and took off her scanner. Peppa did the same. In the low tone, Sutal asked, “ Are you sure about lying to the King and his scientists? If there’s trouble down the road, then we’re to blame.”

“But Lord Frieza’s would be on our side. I’m sure he doesn’t want a dispute right now with his army running low on recruits. He needs us at the moment. Besides it’ll help us come to a better conclusion if others make blind observations. Dumbasses like Nappa would assume the worse, and cause a war in which we’d lose.”

Sutal faltered. The logic made sense, but she could tell there was something her sister was withholding something from the crew and her. They were twins… they shared everything with each other…was this really her sister? Sutal simply nodded and put the scanner back on, quietly praying everything works out.

[bandaged-chessmaster]

Oh God I got tagged in so many of these that I couldn’t ignore it >.<

Rules: 1. Answer these eleven questions 2. Make eleven of your own questions 3. Tag eleven people!

@narkaoh‘s Questions

1.) Favorite book? Hmmm, it’s been a while since I’ve read a book, so I’ll go with the last book I read, No Longer Human 2.) Favorite movie? Argh! Don’t do this to me! I’ll go with a Tamil film here, it’s called ‘Mozhi’ (Language) and it’s a cute rom-com about a dubbing artist and musician falling for a deaf and dumb girl. 3.) What actor do you absolutely ffffucking hate? Robert Pattinson, he just has a slappable face. 4.) How often do you read fics? (I see you on AO3, heathens.) Reading a fic right now....

5.) Are you a morning or an evening person? I’m a night owl!

6.) Best memory? Getting first place in a writing competition!

7.) Lemme get them digits? (LMAO THIS IS FILLER, I’M K I D D I N G) 420-360-6969

8.) What the hell is your favorite meme? I gotta know this one. STOP IT WITH THESE HARD QUESTIONS!!! ;A;

9.) Favorite ship? (For… uh.. research purposes.) Currently Soukoku!

10.) If you could pick one person to take with you on a deserted island, who would it be and why? @raven-rein​, she can calm me down, and it would be fun~

11.) Are you a cat or dog person, or both? (VITAL INFORMATION. I am JUDGING U.) I’m a 110% cat person!

@pitch-black-hearts‘s Questions

1.)Favourite tea/coffee? Filter coffee is bae 2.)Russian kink or soviet kink? Neither I have a Gogol kink

3.)Chuuya’s hips or Dazai’s thighs? Dazai’s thighs please 4.)Do you pronounce Gnocchi right? Yes 5.)I’ll kick your ass if your aren’t getting enough sleep just saying. Try me binch 6.)Opinion on Mori? He’s a very good Mafia boss, and I wanna see more of his past with Fukuzawa! 7.)What style is your fashion? Comfort is key 8.)Teal or Lavender? Teal! 9.)Have you ever used a bath bomb? Nope....sadly 10.)What colour do you wish your hair was (natural or not)? Bubble gum pink! 11.)I love you <3 wwwwwww (////////)

@willofd11‘s Questions

1. What is your favorite thing to do during your spare time? Listen to music and stare at the wall 2. Favorite Anime/Manga/Game Character?

3. Favorite book? Already answered! 4. If you can change one thing that happened in your past that had happened, what would it be? Me berating myself for getting attracted to girls 5. If you can have any kind of ability you can think of, what will it be? I want something similar to Yang’s semblance, that is, the ability to absorb energy and return it twice the amount! 6. Favorite dessert? Right now I’m craving rasgullas 7. What is your favorite season? Autumn, the colours are really pretty~ 8. Any fun plans over the holidays? Hmm, I used to as a kid, but not nowadays 9. Favorite song? Currently it’s Techno Distance (Innerve remix) 10. If you can be any kind of animal, what would it be? A kitty~ 11. Sure this is not a question, but here are some hugs and cookies to go with it and I hope you have a wonderful day <3 Awww thank you~

@mj-bing-cassidy‘s Questions

1.What season is your favourite? Answered!

2.Scarves, gloves, hats, or none at all? Gloves~

3.Long car rides or quiet reading time on Saturday mornings? Long car ridess

4.Do you do homework on time or no? I submit it on time tho

5.Can you do a kartwheel? No....

6.What hairstyle do you have? Layered bob cut

7.Favourite colour? Shocking Pink(#FC0FC0)

8.Puppies or kittens? KITTIES!!!!

9.How do you prefer your marshmallows? With hot chocolate~

10.Can you speak another language? I speak 4 languages, and I’m learning another one!

11.What was your favourite age? 11 years old~

@missmizpah‘s Questions

1. Opinion on nuts? C R O N C H

2. Favorite book genre? Fantasy~

3. Worst injury/illness? I was dehydrated to the point where I was throwing up even after drinking water

4. What attracts you to someone platonically? HUMOUR!!! Also chocolate and kindness~

5. What was the last dream you had? .....It was a rather sad one, so I don’t wanna talk about it....

6. Are you someone who eats cough drops like candy? DON’T CALL ME OUT!! >:T

7. Native language? Tamil

8. What size shoes do you wear? Size 6 on UK

9. What is your current hair length? Up till my nape

10. One habit you’re sure is specific to you? Pacing around while listening to music

11. How far would you swim out into the ocean? Till I die

@excitable-nugget‘s Questions

1.If you could have one sense enhanced, what would it be? Eyesight, so that I can stop wearing spectacles 2.Can you link your hands behind your back with one over the shoulder and one under? (like this) Pffff that’s easy! 3.Favourite colour to wear, or your favourite colour in general? My most prominent colour is red,or black 4.What was your internet pseudonym when you were 12-14? HakuniUzume on dA 5.What’s your favourite meat-based dish? If you don’t eat meat, what’s your favourite dish in general? Nothing beats a good mutton biryani! 6.Would you rather be known as wise or strong? Why not both? Hmmm, I’d prefer it’s better to be known as wise 7.What’s your favourite physical feature about yourself? I guess my eyes are pretty :T 8.Would you rather explore the ocean depths or space? Ocean depths! Best to know your own planet well first~ 9.What’s your favourite snack food? Jim jam biscuits! 10.If you could make one thing from fiction (e.g. a character, a place, a food, a machine) real, what would it be? Kunikida’s notebook, really covers my stationary needs!

11.Is Australia real or just a conspiracy? ....what’s Australia?

@kiimone‘s Questions

1. how many times do you nut a day? (if you say 0 then im unfriending bc you’re boring) 0 FIGHT ME!!!!

2. in what way do you indulge in your rarepairs? Don’t you mean most of my pairs? Daydreaming about them and writing cute hcs

3. would you hire a deep web hitman to take you out? Hell yeah, I need money though

4. what’s your favorite not-english song? Bish I listen to only Vocaloid songs....I guess a fave has to be Satisfaction

5. who would win: a shark or a grizzly bear? Bear cause bear is stronk on both land and water

6. are you willing to try new things without having time to adjust to it? That’s where the kick of trying new things comes from doesn’t it? :3c

7. would you smash. me. Hmmm sure. You’re cute.

8. i ran out of questions im sorry. Awwww that’s ok~ *pat pat*

@chom-raaa​’s Questions

1. Heroes gone bad or villains becoming good? Both! Don’t make me choose ;~;

2. Did you ever get in trouble in school? When was the last time and what was it about? I choked a guy to the point where he passed out in 5th grade

3. Hot drinks or cold drinks? Cold drinks! The weather is too hot for me to enjoy it

4. Any siblings? Older/younger? Would you have it any other way? I have an older brither, I would have liked to have an older sister too

5. You most prized possession? My medals, and my Miku figurine!

6. What’s a fandom trope that makes you uncomfortable? Uhhh, not exactly uncomfortable, but the entire mischaracterisation and woobification of the Port Mafia members really gets under my skin

7. What do find attractive in a fictional character? Voice, messy hair, bedroom eyes Dazai

8. If could bring a character back to life but sacrifice another character in return (major-ish characters for those fandoms with a big cast), who would you choose? ODASAKU FOR LOVECRAFT 

9. Long fics or short fics? In terms of both reading and writing? Long fics for both~

10. Are you content with who you are? No, I have a lot of room for improvement

11. What is holding you back from getting what you want? Procrastination

*cracks knuckles*

1. What do you hate but you wished you love? 2. What’s the best pizza you’ve eaten? 3. A song that you’ll never skip? 4. The best and worst song lyric you’ve heard? 5. What is something beautiful you see every day? 6. What smells make you happy? 7. When is the last time you cried? 8. What is the worst thing your mom caught you doing as a kid?  9. What was your first kiss like? 10. What is something that you seriously take for granted? 11. What is your worst experience in a foreign country? 

Tagging: @nenufair  @the-ol-razzle-daz-azzle @ariukoart @eien-misui-ni-goodbye @dearyoon-gi @aekgolan @joo-joo-bee @raven-rein @world-of-shadows @lyberti-lynn @godkidcharlie

(Do it if you wanna~)

[aldreaoakley]

Phantom Thief

(My idea with many Voltage games involved. Vocaloid song: Phantom Thief F’s Scenario: Mystery of the Missing Diamond.)

___ sighs and reviews the material for the upcoming article while recalling what lead to this story. ~*~*~*~ Akiyoshi announces that there was a mysterious letter sent to Tres Spade Travel Agency from the notorious Phantom Thief F one day in Seasonelle Tribune. Everyone looks up at the news from their desks. It’s not everyday that a mysterious letter can make headlines.

“Phantom Thief F publicly notified Mr. Ichinomiya that he’ll steal the Diamond of Happiness off an upcoming auction party on the S.S. Fantastic,” the head editor explains. “I want a journalist to cover that story ASAP!” ___ raises her hand, with little idea of what was to happen. The next day, ___ arrives at the pier with her camera and notebook ready. Adjusting her newsies cap she watches around her, taking snapshots of people from the file Akiyoshi gave her the day before. She sees the auctioneer, Nobunaga Oda, rushing while looking at his watch. /Did he forget something someplace,/ ___ wonders as her shutter clicks. Motion out the corner of her eye and she turns to see the mechanic, Takuto Hirukawa, yawns as he walks down the pier to the docked luxury liner. /Hm… did he make it on time,/ ___ muses with another shutter click. A loud cough reaches her hearing and ___ flips her head to see a well-dressed business man coughing with a police officer, Mamoru Kishi, nearby and a mobster, Soryu Oh, standing not far talking with some people whom she can guess are his men. /Why is the police here? And what is with the mafia? I need to double check my file when I get back,/ ___ thinks and the shutter clicks two more times. The departure bell whistles and ___ hurries onboard before the door can close. Nearly falling over, a hand grabs her wrist and ___ looks to see a young man smiling at her. “Please be careful here Miss,” the youth cautions as he helps her. “The ship can be hard to stand on for first-timers.” ___ nods her appreciation then goes to where the action is to be. Inside, ___ gets a picture of the magician, Edward Levaincois, as he summons a few doves from within his hat. /Is there an omen behind that act,/ ___ ponders as she looks at the clock, puzzled. /And is his show being rushed? The paper that Akiyoshi gave me said the start time isn’t for another half hour…/ She sees Mamoru and Soryu again but in a bad stare off that she didn’t take a picture of them. The tension coming off them is so thick that her shutter wouldn’t be a good idea. A soft voice of encouragement hits her ear. ___ spins to see a politician, Riki Yanase, shaking with his wine glass showing how bad it is. The doctor nearby, Chihaya Koda, holds a medicine vial to him. /Did Mr. Yanase loose a lot of sleep? That red wine looks like it will spill anytime? I just hope he listens to Dr. Koda,/  ___ muses while lowering her camera. She already snap a picture of Riki and Chihaya that she then spies a young waiter, Thomas, offering a selection of drinks to Yutsuki Kitaoji, a famous actor. /Wow… Mr. Kitaoji is holding his liquor well,/ ___marvels as her camera catches a snap shot of them. “GENTLEMEN! THE STAR OF THE SHOW IS HERE,” Nobunaga bellows. ___ moves her head to see him standing on a podium with the legendary Diamond of Happiness shining brilliantly in its velvet lined case in front of him. The men in the room all gather while the security forms up, spinning a strong web of security. She sees Mamoru making eye contact with one of them, probably the head of the ship’s security. She takes another picture before bids start flying like crazy and Nobunaga’s auction hammer pounding a mad dance. Numbers going higher than the last bid brings more question to mind than a possible thief showing up. Why were these men bidding on the diamond for? Greed? Assets? Foolish decision? ZZZTKRSHRK! BANG! Suddenly the power goes out with a shotgun’s fire following not far with a loud ear-piercing scream that ___ struggles to look for within the dark room for its source over the sudden outburst of speaking. “Where’d that gunshot come from,” she hears someone yell. “How am I to know?! That gun wasn’t in the luggage inspection,” another person’s holler rings out. “The windows’s cracked open,” comes a barely audible voice. “Large enough for…” leaks a sad voice. “Someone fainted,” another voice cries out. “What?!” POP! The power is back on and the scene in front of ___ is pure chaos! Chihaya cradles a wine stained and collapsed Riki. Yutsuki business himself with cleaning glass but he bumps into Thomas. Thomas then hits an upset Edward as his doves are now out a shattered window. Soryu is on the ground laughing and jeering at the scene with Mamoru looking really pissed. The police clearly has a mishap right under their nose! Takuto’s heels click in and ___ whirls to see him holding a report for the breaker failure near her. Changing her focus, ___ looks around then sees a bullet next to her foot! /Who shot this bullet at who for what reason,/ ___ puzzles. Then Nobunaga’s voice resounds in the hall, making it suddenly quiet. “Oh really,” he yelps. Within seconds the guards onboard report to Mamoru with shocking news. One person is missing that all in the room are stunned. “Say what,” ___ whispers and runs over to the window, against the protests of the men in the room. She was right. “Guys there’s a silk hat in the ocean,” she tells them. ~*~*~*~ Setting down the picture of that silk hat floating eerily on the ocean’s surface, ___ cannot help but wonder. “Something bothering you?” ___ turns to see Shusei and Minato near her, the former asking her the question. She can only nod before looking back at the assembled mess on her desk. Just who could do it? ___ reviews the list of people onboard, add her own name in, and lines up the pictures of those she’d taken. Just who did it? ~*~*~*~ Elsewhere someone smiles and admires their latest steal.

Author’s Note: Yes I used several games at once but I won’t mention my reasons for them. I did use MC as the reporter because it’s not a Voltage scenario without MC getting herself into situations. I didn’t name my thief but I’ll give a list of names to who the young man who’d help MC on the ship may be as a hint. They are: Roberto Button, Takao Marayuma, Noel Aijima, Rhion Hutter, and Ieyasu Tokugawa.

Is that enough for you guys?