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lake-archive · 21 days

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Track 1 - Hard Labor, No Fruit To Harvest

AO3 Link

Characters (main): Doppo Kannonzaka, Reader (gender unspecified)

Pairing: Doppo/Reader

Synposis: You two met by chance and one thing after the other comes up ever since. This is your fated meeting with Doppo Kannonzaka.

Masterlist - Next Track

It was still in Doppo’s ears when he had entered one of the bars on his way home. Honestly, he probably would have headed straight home yet Hifumi was busy tonight with his host job, so there was no rush to return home. He honestly just wanted to forget, maybe drown his sorrows in one way or another. What other choice did he have at this point? None, really. Besides, forgetting for a little while would not be so bad, would it? Yeah, as long as he did not go overboard and found his way home. He had to take himself home after all so he couldn’t overdo it. And honestly… He didn’t have the energy to overdo it to begin with.

Soon he had entered the next best bar, the cheapest he knew at the very least, taking a few steps inside to sit on one of the bar stools, right at the counter of the bar. He let out a deep sigh as he did. The bartender had already spotted him. “Hey, haven’t seen you in a long time ‘round here.”

“Hello… I’ve been… Busy…” Was the salaryman’s response, very weak, defeated. Honestly, he just couldn’t bother with it any longer… The voice of his boss’s head was still echoing in his very own ear, very loudly. A little too loudly perhaps. It all always boiled down to being a ‘good for nothing’ yet getting all the workload on his desk, being worked to his bone. Then again, if he was to turn into a skeleton all of a sudden, the boss would still put the work on his desk or demand that he would be on time. Probably even call and scream “Kannonzaka!” from the top of his lungs and demanding that he would show up as soon as possible. That was just the type of person his boss was and said boss always managed to give Doppo a hard time.

The bartender seemed to know. “Busy hah? The old man’s treatin’ you like an animal as usual?” He had asked which was meant with a nod.

“Ya want the usual then?” And another quick nod from the salaryman. “A’right, ya got it. Be right back!”

And then Doppo had been left to his own devices yet again. And all he did was complain and sulk in his mind, having to hold back to curse from his mouth. And yet, he couldn’t. He found himself mumbling under his own breath, one thing after the other. “No matter what I do, it’s no use… I’m just the errand boy for everything now!” He mumbled, though also somewhat yelling. It was frustrating. And yet, there was nothing he could do at the end of the day. Nothing at all! “Everything… Even if I do a horrible job… I should be grateful to not have been replaced by now. A good for nothing. Only good enough to do the dirty work and nothing else… Yeah, nothing more. Just for the dirty work… Because if no one else will, let the burning trash do it… As if I could do any—”

Yet before he could get too deep into his speech someone interrupted him. He was silenced in one go, the voice having gotten his attention. It simply told him to calm down, yet in the way it was said had gotten him a little curious. So he turned his face, wanting to see who had been talking to him… Only to see you right in front of him.

At that point you were still a stranger to him, a face unfamiliar. He eyed your facial features, as if studying you closely for a moment. It was just to see if he had happened to come across you before in any way yet nothing. You were more than unfamiliar to him. Yet judging from your outfit, you were an office worker, similar to him. Though that was just his guess, he had not been certain. And yet, he had not the breath to ask nor the energy.

You were looking at him ever so curiously, asking what had gotten him so worked up to begin with yet no response. He was silent, not wanting to bother you with any of his problems. Even if you had asked, he just couldn’t do it. Besides, he already looked pathetic enough, so he didn’t even have to bother to explain himself. And yet, you seemed to press on, wanting to know what was going on. Especially since you had overheard him earlier.

It had put him on the spot, making it somewhat embarrassing. Wait… You have heard him so clearly… So very clearly that you could repeat some of his words, summarize what he had said. And each word made his desire to sink into the ground even bigger. Being heard like this, having opened his mouth… He should never have done that! Never!

And thus, he suddenly bowed while in his seat, over and over. “I’m sorry!” He repeated a few times, bowing each time quickly. He could not spot your reaction yet you seemed to let him for a few moments… That was until you put a stop to it yourself, grabbing him by his shoulders to put his body steady. He had been surprised, looking up as you had decided to reassure him, that he did not have to apologize that much if at all.

“But I bothered you, didn’t I? My words were annoying, I know that.” He tried to explain himself yet you denied it, saying something across the lines of ‘it’s alright to complain once in a while’. You seemed to agree on one thing, that the workplace could be a pain in the ass, thus developing a desire to no longer work where you are.

“Huh? You too?” It came out of his mouth in a bit of a shock, more a surprise if anything. And you nodded in agreement, then continued with your own example. Whichever it was you chose to talk about, some annoying co–worker or your boss who was a pain in the ass. Or the demands others had of you despite being only one person, and thus shoving as much of the workload as possible onto you. In the end the same conclusion could be drawn – It was alright to let off some steam. So you were willing to hear him out, weren’t you?

Though he had not expected it, given how you presented yourself, a bit of a contrast to him. Doppo himself looked sleep deprived, a little pale, as if on the brink of falling asleep. You looked nowhere near his state, or at least a little more awake than him. More like his other co–workers, so he had been a little caught off guard hearing any of that. Of course no workplace was perfect but this much trouble? “I… I see. Sounds rough…” Except it’s more than sounding rough… It is rough!

But you kept on encouraging him, wanting him to unwind a little. He didn’t know why, given that the two of you just met. Maybe you sympathized with him a little? It was a possibility yet he could not be sure. After all, how was he supposed to read your mind? And yet, he seemed to relax a little more, becoming more and more aware that maybe complaining a little bit should be fine…

That was until a drink slid across the counter, the glass hitting the side of his arm. He shrieked for a moment, as if having been startled yet he turned, seeing the bartender once more. “There ya go boy. Wait’s been long enough, hasn’t it?” He asked yet one could see a slight grin on his face. Did the bartender watch or something? Doppo couldn’t help but wonder. Because said bartender usually didn’t take that long. In fact, he never took long at all. So did he not want to interrupt? Wait, why was Doppo questioning so much today? Maybe it was the unusual developments of this evening. At least that had been his best guess.

And before knowing it you insisted on putting this on your own tap. The salaryman wanted to stop you yet you seemed to refuse taking no for an answer. Repayment? Him telling you all about his painful day, no questions asked! And he didn’t have much of a choice, he had to do it!

And yet, maybe letting it all out wouldn’t be so bad. After all, his own hard work usually brought no results… Unlike this conversation.

Masterlist - Next Track

#Nimue's Lake #fanfiction #fanfic #fic #x reader #gn reader #reader insert #hypnosis mic #hypmic #hypnosis microphone #doppo kannonzaka #kannonzaka doppo #hypmic doppo #doppo x reader #doppo kannonzaka x reader #hypmic fic #hypmic x reader #Trying to test the waters here ngl. I just want to contribute more to Doppo content and this idea may be my opportunity.#I will still do my regular stuff but I want to test the waters here. So Doppo enjoyers... This one is for you!

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nimue-hidden-lake · 1 month

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Happy Birthday To Gentaro (again)

It's not much but a small celebration! Also playing around with my photo editing software.

#Nimue's Lake #Sweet Words #tw food #cw food #f/o community #fictional other community #f/o merch #f/o plush #gentaro yumeno #yumeno gentaro #hypmic gentaro #Ok last post about it I swear! And it may not be much but may as well have at least a small celebration!#irl photo #food pics #food photography #Happy Birthday Gentaro

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thelakeofnimue · 7 months

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Alte Liebe Rostet Nicht (AO3 Fic) - Complete

Fandom: Ensemble Stars Characters: Sena Izumi , Original Characters, Original Female Character(s), Orriginal Male Character(s), Original Non-Human Character(s), Sena Izumi's Mother (Ensemble Stars!), Sakuma Ritsu, Tsukinaga Leo, Narukami Arashi, Suou Tsukasa, Sakasaki Natsume, Harukawa Sora, Kagehira Mika Pairing: Sena Izumi/Original Characters Language: English (with bits of German) Words: 81,971

If you enjoy my work, I would appreciate a reblog so it can get out there!

The only long fic I 100%ed so far. I want to promote it a little more. Apologies if it gets annoying, I really want to get it out there is all.

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vesperosy · 10 months

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lady of the lake (2021)

ko-fi

#illustration #fantasy art #arthurian legend #nimue #lady of the lake #my art #another oldie i forgot to post forever #traditional art

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ullevikk · 6 months

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lady of the lake

#artist on tumblr #illustration #my art #ule draws #medieval #arthurian legend #lady of the lake #fairy of the lake #escalibur #arthuriana #Nimue #Viviane

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suzylind · 8 months

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Nimue: "No need, I know everything."

Lancelot: "EVERYTHING?!"

Based on a scene from the fic: "Be a Fool, Be Happy" by @sonysakura

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bean5prouts · 15 days

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hello tumblr today i offer you some Women

#beans art #arthuriana #arthurian legend #dame lynette #dame linet #idk how to tag her #nimue #lady of the lake #i have a sinus infection and finals are driving me mad. but i hope to be on here more regularly soon

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fyeahmyths · 9 months

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Enchantress of Arthurian Legend.

#mythedit #lady of the lake #arthurian legend #nimue #mythology #*

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achirding · 10 months

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SatBK Prompt Week - Day 7: Peace

Even knights take days off, and what better way to enjoy a peaceful day that to share stories and laughter over some hot tea and snacks?

#satbk #satbk sir gawain #satbk sir percival #satbk sir lancelot #satbk lady of the lake #sonic and the black knight #satbk nimue #achirping #sonic the hedgehog #satbk2023 #satbk promptweek #shadow the hedgehog #amy rose #blaze the cat #knuckles the echidna #everybody just chilling and having a good time! C: just hanging out!!! i lvoe them v much so easy to forget king arthur is a tragedy at tim #like this and that they are all fated for bad things. although sonic flipped the script so who knows maybe their destinies have changed for #the better too! We can only hope. C:#a day behind will upload dragon tomorrow! C

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hecatesdelights · 5 months

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Nimue, The Lady of the Lake

#nimue #lady of the lake #medieval illustration #king arthur #arthurian mythology #arthurian legend #legendary heroes #arthur pendragon

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bignostalgias · 1 year

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Nimue from The Lights of Avalon by @alkalinefrog ~ the Merlin BBC part of my brain is absolutely giddy listening to this fic 🧙🏻

(AND YES, LISTENING…. TLOA is podficced by @santathegrey and is excellently narrated, thank you for making cleaning the apartment more fun! ✨Spotify link✨)

#nimues character description made me go ‘oh I can’t not draw her’#fic: tloa #mine #frostcup #rotbtd #hijack #jackycup #nimue #the lady of the lake #I have a few more sketch ideas based on chapter 7 that I’m excited to do soon!#shenanigans of all time!#ALKA I HOPE YOU DONT MIND #sorry if she’s too green djdjdjdjsja as I kept drawing she kept getting swampwitchier

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lake-archive · 1 month

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A Fool For His Birthday

AO3 Link - A Shared Love Between Our Posse (Masterlist)

Fandom: Hypnosis Mic

Characters: Gentaro Yumeno, Ann Wolff (OC)

Pairing: Genann (Gentaro/Ann) (Developing)

Synposis: April Fool's Day but also the birthday of Gentaro Yumeno. And having both of those days overlap can be causing more trouble than expected. At least it is all in good fun~

Words: 3,659

Being greeted with this sight was something Ann had not necessarily expected. Especially not at his home, Gentaro’s home. They had somewhat announced it, not wanting to barge in from one moment to the next.

“Hey, Gentaro. Is it ok if I come to visit you after lectures today?”

“Visiting me? What gives me the honor on such a day? Wouldn’t you prefer to avoid me~?”

Given it was the first of April as well as his nature, maybe… But he just so happened to be born on that day. So they really couldn’t… “Oh c’mon! I don’t see a reason to! Can I come over or not?”

“Very well. But don’t make it too long. Ramuda and Dice pushed me into some plans for that evening.”

“I know. Ramuda is also making me attend…”

“Of course he would. What a troublesome boy.”

“It’s just how he is.” Though their first boyfriend had insisted more than usual… What was up with that? They could only wonder…

Even the argument ‘How about you three have some ‘bro time?’ did not work. Because all Ramuda answered there was ‘Oh we’re getting plenty of bro time! Plus, it's Gentaro’s birthday! Pleeeaaase!?’. … He himself did have a fair argument though…

“Then I assume we could head to his studio together later.”

“Sure, I don’t mind.”

“I’ll look forward to it then. See you later, Ann.”

So regardless of anything, Ann still had plans to see Gentaro one on one, mainly to not be hit with a wave of embarrassment when handing him their gift… Which was difficult to pick out. Then again, in the end they didn’t necessarily pick something out.

Or… Well, they did but that was just a notebook, really, fitting in a small story within its pages. And they sadly had to admit that this was their emergency solution. All because they just couldn’t think of anything else… Outside of watermelon slices but… Firstly, it’s not summer. Secondly, that’s boring. At least the chocolate on Ramuda’s birthday required effort. And they didn’t want to slack off in Gentaro’s case either.

So they recalled one of the things he seemed to really enjoy and concluded that it might be a fun idea to write a short story, dedicated to his eyes only. Not just that but… Perhaps try themself on a doodle here and there. But that was also the thing, it was impossible to hand it over when Ramuda and Dice were around. Especially if the two saw the poor attempts of their illustrations. They already wanted to sink into the ground knowing that Gentaro would see them while reading the story sometime… Ah, the entire thought was embarrassing! Not just that but he was going to see their handwriting as well! Maybe they had gotten a little too ahead with this. Besides, what if he doesn’t like it!? That was perhaps their biggest fear at the end of the day, one which would make their stomach turn.

And that was why they had been pacing back and forth in front of his apartment door, unsure if they should even enter. Maybe they should just drop the notebook and run. Run as fast as possible and say that they only had enough time to drop their gift. But no, that’d be inappropriate! They should give him their gift to him in person. Yeah, in person! Besides, they had already agreed to pay him a visit so it would be impossible to back out now!

Alright, deep breath… And just get this over with! Yeah, just get it over with! It’ll be fine. It’ll be just fine…

So, a quick knock. “Hello! Gentaro!” They began, knocking once more. “It’s me, Ann! I’m here!”

“Oh!? Wait wait wait Ann!?” They heard him say surprisingly… Panicked? That was a first and unusual. “Ah, what terrible timing!”

Terrible timing? “Is something wrong? Do you need help with something?”

“Ahaha… W… Well… You could say that but—”

“Then go on, open the door. I’ll help out however I can!”

“It’s not exactly that but…”

“You don’t want me to come in?”

“It’s not…” A quick break, a short moment of silence before he continued after a short sigh. “Listen, you may come in. But promise me one thing.”

Promise something? What is he scheming now? That’s what they were wondering. “What is it?”

“Don’t freak out when you enter…”

“Don’t freak out? Why?”

“You’ll see! Just promise me that first!”

“Ok fine fine! I promise!”

“Thank you. Now, you may open the door. It is open.”

What had Gentaro been up to today, on his birthday nonetheless? But honestly, they should not even be surprised. It was April Fool’s as well, it may as well be a holiday for him or something like that. So they opened the door cautiously.

A quick gaze up, as if checking for anything up there. They wanted to believe that he would not step that low but you could never be sure with him, so they rather double checked. But nothing. A few glances to the side… Nothing seemed to be amiss. Alright, the coast was clear.

So they entered, one step inside, just in case, slow and steady. Was something on the ground they didn’t see? They didn’t know yet but were cautious nonetheless… But nothing. It was safe to walk on it.

So they soon were standing in the hall, looking around for a moment though a little puzzled. “Gentaro? Where are you?” Maybe he was stuck somewhere?

“Ahaha… W… Well… You might want to go into the living room to find out.” Ann heard him chuckle, though sounding very nervous, more than usual. Something was off here… Very…

“Why?”

“It’s best to see it instead of me explaining it all to you.”

They only shrugged at this point yet knew that discussing it was futile. So they may as well. Just what was going on here? They couldn’t really tell…

And yet, they would figure it out soon enough. Because they were heading straight to the first room on the left lacking a door, taking a glance into the living room. They saw nothing off at first. Everything seemed in place, literally. Nothing off here, at all. None. Na—

That was until they took a look at the couch seeing… A tiny rabbit on the sofa!? Light brown fur and green eyes, sitting there, sniffing around. They were staring a little in disbelief, almost dropping the notebook yet managed to catch it at the very last second. What… Was a rabbit doing here!? Why!? How!?

“Uhm… Did someone gift you a pet?” They asked, looking back into the hall, hoping that he was in another room. Someone gifted him a pet, right? That had to be it. It just had to! And yet—

“Firstly, it’s rude to not look at someone while they’re talking to you!” They heard his voice say very sternly, making them turn back. Wait, the voice was coming from the living room after all!? Where— “Secondly, I’m not a pet. It’s me, Gentaro. And someone apparently thought that it was funny to turn me into a fluffy creature!”

Hold on, what!? “W… Wait… You are saying…” Ann stuttered as they took a few steps closer, to the sofa. Carefully to not scare the little bunny on it. And once they were close enough they kneeled down, to come face to face with said bunny, staring at it and only seeing how it was moving its head around while moving its nose. Actually… From up close, it was an adorable little fella. If Gentaro would stay like that then maybe— Ah no! What were they even thinking!? “You’re messing with me, right?”

“Me!? Do I sound like I’m lying!?” Was the only thing they heard as a response, as if he was offended.

“I mean, you love to lie…”

“Hah, alright. That is a fair argument. However, I’m not joking in this instance. Sure, this body is warm and I do not feel uncomfortable but I cannot stay like this.”

He… Was serious? He was being serious… No, this was almost like some fairytale. No way. “Mhm… Right…”

“I mean it! I cannot work as a bunny, can I?”

“Well, you could work at a petting zoo. The kids would love you~” They decided to tease, even if just for this moment. They may as well.

“Ann, don’t even joke about things like that…” He said however, sounding surprisingly deadpan. “I would just bite every kid in sight trying to touch me.”

“Oh come on, don’t make them cry. Not even Ole does that.” Yeah, instead he recently liked to sleep at the end of their bed and bite into their toes when he saw the feet peeking out… Ole is an old man but still a cat, and that was a rather painful reminder. Anyways…

“I’m stating facts…”

“Besides, you could have an easier life. Think of all—”

“Stop joking around and help me turn back!” He interrupted, sounding desperate, perhaps a little embarrassed. That was a first.

And yet, she chuckled. It was a sight they would never get to hear again after all. “Alright alright. Let’s find a way to turn you back into the same old guy.”

They were about to get up, wanting to discuss this and yet– “Actually, I might have a plan.”

They got curious, raising an eyebrow. “Like what?”

“You are accustomed to fairytales, aren’t you?”

Fairytales? What was this going to turn into? “Yeah, my parents read me some all the time.”

“Does that include The Frog Prince?”

“That’s basically a classic where I’m from. What’s up with—”

“Try kissing me.” Gentaro interrupted, sounding blunt, cold and saying this with no hesitation. This made Ann nearly trip over, shocked with wide eyes.

“Wait… What? Hold on!” She nearly shouted yet kept calm the moment they still noticed the tiny bunny. Right, they couldn’t startle him now…

“Is that not how the princess breaks the frog’s spell?”

“Wha– No! Well… Ok yes but in the original not. She threw him against the wall.”

“Huh… That will hurt but… Alright, go on. I’m ready.”

“ Are you crazy!? I’m not throwing a bunny against the wall!”

“Not even if—”

“Not even then!” This sounded insane. They’re not going to do that! What was going on in his mind, agreeing to this so easily!? Seriously…

“Fine! I’ll try a—” And yet, they had risen their voice all of a sudden, noticing the moment they saw the bunny hop down, away from the sofa. Instead of waiting they had reacted right away, dashing right after it for a few seconds after having placed the notebook onto the table. “Wha— Stay here! This isn’t funny!”

“Ah, apologies! But you were loud, my ears!”

“I’m sorry but what you suggested was crazy! Now get ba—” Though before they could say anything further, or rather wanted to finish their words, they noticed something when running right past the sofa. Something stuck out there… Something black. It was as if these were parts of some clothing, a fabric they were all too familiar with. They only stared at it for a short moment before their expression turned from worried to blank… Literally. Of course… Yeah, that checks out.

So they took a few steps closer, right behind the sofa themself and spotting someone all too well, having his back pressed against the sofa and sitting there, not looking up. At least not yet. And when he was about to speak again they interrupted him fairly quickly with their own words, anything but impressed.

“You really think this is funny, don’t you?”

Though instead of a quick gasp they only heard a chuckle. “Looks like I’ve finally been caught.” He commented before turning towards them, looking up to face them with his usual smirk, shrugging. “Though I’m surprised that you didn’t try to check sooner Ann~”

“Ah— That—”

“Did you really believe my little lie here~?”

“N… No! I… Er… Just wanted to play along!”

“Of course, play along.”

“It’s true! Nothing more!”

“Right, right. I believe you.” And yet, it sounded as if he didn’t.

“Ugh… Sh… Shut it!” This was embarrassing in the end…

A few minutes forward, the bunny had been placed somewhere where it could be getting some rest after all this running, away from the two who were about to converse. When Ann had asked Gentaro where he got it from he said that he took it in for a few days. Someone had asked him to take care of it and would pick it up later. He owed that person a favor so he could hardly decline. Plus, the little fella was adorable, no denying. And that is also why he had been home for now, awaiting the person to arrive and pick their little friend up.

“You could have warned me beforehand…” They sighed, both having decided to sit down on the sofa, right next to each other. Ann had decided to lean a little backwards, arms crossed. This was just… A lot. That guy…

“Haha, forgive me. But I couldn’t resist. Today is April Fool’s Day after all.” He reminded them with his usual smile, much to their own dismay. “And you fell for it.”

“I said tha–” They were about to protest again, yet that proved useless. They knew. “Nevermind.”

“Now, may I ask what even brings you here? I did not expect you to announce your visit so suddenly.”

Right, their visit… As to why they were here. They had almost forgotten to be honest. And once they remembered they were about to grow red from all said embarrassment. Because once reality kicks in that this will be in Gentaro’s hands right this second… They became a little hesitant again. And yet, they couldn’t just back out now.

Though they did not say a thing, not at first at least. They were looking around, stuttering for a moment before eyeing the notebook on the table for a few seconds. They were looking back at Gentaro for a moment, seeing him waiting ever so patiently for their answer. Then again, he might have a clue now… There was no use hiding it from him, was there? Yeah, no use at all.

“I… Well… You know what day it is, right?” They began slowly, their voice shivering a little. “And I don’t mean April Fool’s…”

“Oh yes, of course I know. You are speaking of my birthday, aren’t you?”

They nodded. “Yeah.”

“Oh, have you decided to grant me a wish in private?”

“Wha— Wait, that—”

“Then we should certainly talk about that kiss from earlier.” He said with no shame, teasing. And yet… It sounded so serious. Wait no, that was just his way of playing games in the end, wasn’t it!? He even leaned a little forward, to make matters worse.

It led to them trying to back away yet knowing they would just fall over if they did, being cornered. So they weren’t even trying. Besides, he was only close enough yet had not touched their lips with his own. It should be fine… He’s just messing with them a little. “It’s not like that! I mean it is related to your birthday but—”

“Oya? Are you denying me a wish on my very own birthday? You’re a cruel one~” He sounded hurt, the fake kind.

“Tha— I just… Guh… I wanted to give you something!” They said when suddenly grabbing the notebook, pulling it in front of their face. They just couldn’t look at his face, not like this. This was getting more and more embarrassing by the second. In fact, they had to make sure now that he was not seeing their face whatsoever. Really, this guy… Things have changed between the two but also not really, haven’t they?

“Ah, a gift. That is what you meant.” They heard him say, hearing the sofa making some noise, him most likely backing away, somewhat.

They lowered the notebook a little as a result, sighing before handing it over to him, no questions asked. “Yeah. I wasn’t sure what so I thought of… Well… Writing something. Hand written that is.”

“Hand written? For… Me?” He asked as they felt him taking the notebook, then hearing it open. No, they saw it actually, him skimming through the pages. Witnessing it first hand made them feel even more embarrassed than before now, to the point their thoughts were racing… Goddamnit.

“Yeah, for you. I… Hope it will be al—”

“Oya? And you can draw too.” He interrupted, sounding fascinated. Ah— He’s seeing the drawings, isn’t he!?

“I just… Thought maybe… Ok listen I’m not that good at it but I was thinking of… Giving it a personal touch! Go on ahead and laugh or something! I—”

“Oh no, it’s not bad at all. I was just surprised that you can even visualize what you’re thinking.” He interrupted, chuckling, then closing the notebook finally, placing it back onto the table. “Allow me to read it in peace later. Unless—”

“Please, take your time reading it!” They didn’t need to hear him reading their writing out loud. That was the last thing they needed to hear!

“Still, going through so much effort… It is not a giant special occasion.”

“A… Are you kidding? Of course it is. Besides… It’s only fair, isn’t it? Putting effort into a gift I mean…”

“If you say so. But really, you didn’t have to do that.” He assured them, or tried to.

“It’s fine, really. No trouble at all. I did it because I wanted to!” They insisted.

“Alright, I will not argue. I thank you all the same.”

And then a moment of silence between the two again… Ah, this was really something else… The two of them, alone right now. And there was still a bit of time left before they would head to the studio Ramuda owned. Not like they could go anyway thanks to the rabbit anyway bu—

“Although, back to the kiss…” Ann suddenly heard Gentaro bring up, facing them directly yet again. Hearing him say that made them squeal in place for a short moment, staring at him intensely.

“P… Please don’t joke like that!” They tried to reason with him, only to see him leaning forward yet again.

“Joke? Who said I was joking?” He countered, all too serious sounding. That had them look at him with wide eyes, feeling just how they warmed up by then. Wait a second—

“Hah!? It has to be! Not funny!”

“But what if I’m not?” And he only got closer.

“That…”

“Say, would you not grant me that one wish?” He asked, his voice in a sudden whisper. He… Was he serious? Was he? Wasn’t he? What was he getting at!?

Though… The argument… It was tempting. And he had been asking earlier. It’s just a kiss right? Ah wait, should they even consider? But he was close and— Ah, why were they even thinking about it? The two had kissed before. One time in the bookstore, the other time at the train station. It should be fine… Right? Was it? They would lie if they said that the urge had not overcome them… And they could use his reasoning as an excuse… Maybe?

Oh they should just admit that they wanted to kiss him…

So they suddenly did. Just when they saw him, his mouth opening, about to say something to them they suddenly leaned a little forward, right in to press their lips against his own.

It was short, though more than a mere peck. His lips were soft, the taste exactly what they remember. It was hard to pull back honestly, hence why they may as well be almost glued onto his lips. But they pulled back shortly after, not wanting to make this too long. And needless to say… His reaction had been unexpected.

He was staring at them, as if in disbelief, and they could see him all red. It was a first, not something they had seen before. Ever. And moments later he even put his hand over his mouth before making one of his fingers trace over his own lips. He didn’t say anything, only staring at them for a moment before suddenly leaning away from them and turning his face into the opposite direction, as if trying to hide his face.

And it left them… Confused. “Gentaro? Is something wrong?” They asked him, a little worried. This reaction was unusual, even for him. Just what was he—

“N… No. No no no! Nothing is wrong!” He responded, as if trying to keep his cool, though failing miserably. Why was he getting so worked up all of a sudden?

“You sure? That—”

“Just… Uhm… I… Being so bold.”

“Bold? What do you mean?”

“Ah— It’s… Nothing! Just thinking aloud!”

The first time they had seen him like this. “W… Wasn’t that your birthday wish?”

No response, only silence on his end. Though he turned back soon enough, eyeing them with… Still an intense redness? Yeah, he was red beyond belief here, redder than red even.

“I… I know what I said but it was a—” He wanted to say yet he didn’t finish it. In the end he just didn’t finish it. No, he kept silent for a moment before they spotted him with a different face altogether. A smile? Was that what they saw?

“No, nevermind. I won’t complain. I think I got pretty lucky.”

“Lucky?”

“Please, do not question it.” He said, turning back with his face in their full view once more. A smile so gentle yet genuine, one of the most genuine they had seen of him. Perhaps he was just really happy at the moment. They could only guess and yet… Even if only for this very moment…

“Thank you for granting my birthday wish.”

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nimue-hidden-lake · 5 months

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Ramuann Loredrop

I wanted to hold off until I wrote their stories but I can't. I must share this... NOW!

Also in case I push self indulgent stuff ahead. I want to provide some context for those stories at least because who knows when I finish their subplot in the CATZ story.

Plus analyzing songs I put in a Ramuann playlist. Working on those and want to share why I associate certain songs with them, this will be fun. But context will be needed so I create this post in advance to always link to in regards to the Ramuda/Ann dynamic.

Anyway click on the cut for the full breakdown! I hope it will be interesting!

Ramuann Dynamic - Ann Character Profile

The question is where to start. Why? Because Ramuda and Ann go way back, before the main story of Hypnosis Mic. Ann had been part of the Chuohku (before officially coming out) a year prior and thus are aware of Ramuda's ties to some degree. They were always aware that he had been working with them and that there was more than one. As far as they knew at first however Ramuda was just their tool, nothing else, and thus they stayed cautious around him, back then as well. They are also somewhat aware of his act, though that is more instinct for a good while.

Even Ramuda knew of Ann prior to any story events yet did not recognize them. This is not just due to them changing their look entirely to fit them personally but also because of them covering their face with a mask and hat. Given their hair being in the way by default it was always difficult to make out their facial features. However, he had heard of them under the name ‘The Executioner’ and amongst Chuohku they were referred to as such. He had never known their true identity. They were known to hit hard and defeat their foes rather quickly, damaging them to the point of near death if not careful. How so? They always attack where it hurts most with words. So before a direct confrontation they would always thoroughly research their target. He had witnessed this preparation and power when having been on a mission with The Executioner, aware of the pattern and rap style.

The only last noteworthy event pointing out between them prior to anything else is Ann's disobedience. Tasked to originally manipulate a scientist they were searching for located in Osaka via the True Hypnosis Mic The Executioner shoved Ramuda aside instead, dealing with it on their own and apprehending said scientist instead and rescuing the cat under the scientist's ‘care’ (that cat is Ole). It got them in trouble yet it is unlikely to be a regret. When Ramuda had asked why they did that they gave him a wishy washy answer. “It was less for your sake and more for my own.” And for a while he didn't know what to make of it let alone thought about it… Only later would he find out what that meant.

Move a few more months forward. The Executioner ‘disappeared’ to who knows where… Well, in truth Ann was kicked out of the Chuohku for disobedience and their Hypnosis Mic was officially taken away (however, Ole had stolen a pair prior to this, unaware to everyone at the time). Their mother is a loyal member and this threw her kid out as a result as well. Ole came along. The two moved in with Eli to live a normal life… On the surface. The three (Ole, Ann, Eli) became a crew of vigilantes known as CATZ yet did not start obvious operations just yet at the time.

Regardless, life was going on as usual until one fateful encounter from afar… Or rather a quick sighting. Because Ann had spotted Ramuda from afar, staring in shock that he was there to begin with. They realize too late that he was staring right back at them. He did not recognize them but had an odd feeling from the get go. They ran off, hoping it would be just that and they will never cross paths again.

This could not be further from the truth. Because Ann sighted Ramuda more than once in Shibuya and he noticed them looking. Before he could say anything though they fled the scene usually and he became irritated, panicked even. By then he had been tossed aside by the Chuohku yet they promised to not hunt him down anymore (thanks to Dice's efforts). However, never be certain if they keep their word. So he classified Ann as a potential threat yet couldn't be certain. Biting the bullet he approached them in hope to get information out of them. Though things became more irritating when they said that ‘they are not a woman’ when he had first called them ‘Onee–San’ , though he noticed quickly that they were genuine about this. It was just something he had to adjust to. And yet he was not sure if he could trust them, given how nervous they acted, as if caught doing something. To get more information out of them he invites them to a date, hoping he can squeeze the information out he needs to determine if they are a threat or not.

Ann is in a similar boat, clearly not trusting Ramuda and proceeding with caution. They just want to get away yet have no option out of this, thus agreeing on the date.

During the date the miscommunication between the two becomes apparent. While to the blind eye they are two people just having some fun it is different in their minds. Ramuda grows frustrated that he cannot get them to slip up for a second. Meanwhile Ann is overly cautious in case Ramuda is still with the Chuohku. It turns into somewhat of a battle… Until Ramuda has yet again the feeling that Ann seems familiar. He looks at them yet can't exactly say why yet, starting to wonder if they met before. In a panic Ann excuses themself and runs home, afraid he will recognize them.

For a few weeks not much happens and Ann avoids Ramuda when seeing him which irritates him to no end. Eventually he already came to the conclusion that Ann is not with the Chuohku but he is still curious who they remind him off. But he can't find answers if they run from him.

Ann in the meantime has their own troubles, especially being still treated as a woman despite the constant reminders they are not. They are close to playing along and losing their resolve… Well, that is until they get into trouble with Ichijiku. However, instead of capturing Ann due to their illegal possession of a Hypnosis Mic they are free to go once defeating her. Or rather ‘defeating’ as Ichijiku provoked them to the point they were just shouting and hitting as many sore spots as possible, going all out in that battle. Then again, maybe that had been her plan all along because ‘If you are put under arrest, you may as well have given it your all. Not like the distraight mess you are now. And why? Because they call you a woman? Hmph, if that bothers you so much and you can't even set that record straight, you don't even have the right to be our enemy! Do you understand!?’

Either way, someone had recorded this and put it on the internet. While most admire this ‘Ann’ and call them badass (and their loud ‘I AIN'T A WOMAN!’ became somewhat of a meme on the internet) Ramuda watches the video a few times… He thinks a little back and it then hit him – This is the exact same style as The Executioner, hit where it hurts. The officer who had suddenly disappeared out of nowhere… Ann is The Executioner. Testing the theory though he decides to face them by himself, just to see if he is correct… Though it is a bit risky since he has to throw his mask away. Well, if he is wrong he can always say that it was a joke.

Thus he strikes them out of nowhere and drags them to a more deserted area where he drops his act, challenging them to a battle… Unless being a coward. Ann sees no other choice, afraid that the Chuohku might strike and accepts. While at first they do not do much to strike back they deliver outta nowhere, almost breaking Ramuda in the process. When he begs them to stop they actually do, realizing they might have overdone it and instead try their best to make sure he recovers instead. It was only then Ann realized they also had been wrong and Ramuda was never a threat either.

It takes a good while but eventually Ramuda comes back to his senses and calms down, confirming that Ann was The Executioner. The two come to talk a little. They eventually realize that they are both formerly affiliated with the Chuohku and cut ties on their own terms. They are now doing their own thing. Two outcasts sharing ties to the Chuohku, it gives them a lot to talk about surprisingly, more than expected and for the first time their conversation is anything but tense.

Though Ramuda's interest has peaked when he does something he is not seen to do, ever. He forgets Ann is there for a moment and starts smoking. He notices too late yet is surprised about their reaction.

‘You don't think it's weird?’

‘It's not healthy but… If you do it, you do it. ‘sides, you're an adult. Of course you can smoke and drink if you like.’

‘...’

‘Heck, I honestly really like drinking. Not exactly healthy either so guess who am I to talk?’

‘...’ Though he can't help but chuckle at the end. ‘Weirdo.’

Before parting ways they exchange contact information.

From that point onwards the two are bonding. Ramuda often invites Ann over for some tea or to just hang out. While they hesitate at first it soon becomes second nature. They talk a lot about the past or mundane stuff, overall just having fun. And while not too much, the two sometimes become involved in more serious business as well, especially regarding the Chuohku or if things get out of hand. Needless to say the two bond and it is not too far off to assume they develop feelings or at least become more aware. And while Ramuda knows quickly what he wants it takes Ann a bit to admit to it. Eli teases them a bit yet they deny having any feelings…

Until Ole asks Ramuda if he could manage to get Ann ready for public operations. When Ramuda first asks why it has to be him, Ole redirects him to the video where they faced Ichijiku. A crowd can be seen, fascinated by Ann and even boosting them. It was only at this moment and the cat assumed this to be their ability, some type of crowd control. But they never used it again, the assumption being their confidence. Ramuda accepts eventually after hearing Ole tried everything he could, though it proved to be difficult. Most are tied to their appearance, primarily their body since it is ‘feminine despite the clothing’. They do not want to be seen and are embarrassed. It is a pain until he lectures them himself.

‘Listen, it's a pain. I get it. But maybe you have to do something too. You beat yourself up for looking ‘too much like a woman’ but that thinking is getting you nowhere. If you want everyone to see you for you, you gotta think that you are you and only you. Then you can show them that you are Ann.’

It was the wakeup call they needed, getting themself to think – Think of themself as ‘Ann’, not ‘a woman’. If it had not been for that input they would have never gotten over this and would have never managed to truly accept the way they are, instead of just saying who they are not. It is shortly after this they truly notice their own feelings for Ramuda.

Does that mean they confess? No, not right away. For a bit the two play a game of ‘not knowing’... Except Ramuda knows. Not wanting any distractions during the second division battle he wants to get this over with quickly. By luck he had been provided a chance where he called Ann out on their lie before confessing to them himself first. They were a bit in shock, not having expected this in any way yet confirmed verbally that they feel the same as him shortly after. This marks the day where the two go from ‘friends / partners’ to ‘lovers’.

Is the relationship a secret? Not really, no. Ramuda makes no effort to hide it much to Ann's dismay. He is so open about it in fact that he even confirmed the rumor of dating someone when being asked directly about it. Yet they quickly came to accept it… Though they'd prefer to avoid the jealous mob of women sometimes.

And that is the entire Ramuann lore. Thank you for reading!

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