#OR I plan on selling them at san japan

[polararts]

They're all friends, wdym. Print preorder? available??

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[spicykaraage]

I Want to Be Santa Claus - Story Translation

[Prologue]

Ryoga: (Alright, now that practice is over, I can go see Chibisuke.)

—

Ryoma: Practice ended pretty early today, didn’t it? It’s not even noon yet.

Kikumaru: Well, it’s Christmas Eve. And we’re gonna have a party tonight, it’ll be fun~

Ryoga: Happy birthday, Chibisuke!

Ryoma: Big Bro. So you remembered my birthday.

Ryoga: Of course I did. You really thought your dear older brother would forget?

Kikumaru: I’ve said it before, but I think it’s so cool that your birthday’s Christmas Eve.

Ryoma: Well, thanks for remembering. See ya.

Ryoga: Not so fast. Since it’s Christmas, let’s go pay a visit to the Christmas market.

Ryoma: A Christmas market? In Japan?

Kikumaru: I saw the commercial on TV too. Apparently it’s being held at this big park and they have stalls with Christmas food and other goodies.

Ryoga: That’s the one. The perfect way to spend Christmas, amirite?

Ryoma: Hmm. Well, I don’t have any plans after this, so I guess I can come along.

Ryoga: Great, done and done.

Ryoma: But how we do we get there from here? It’s at some big park, so it’s probably pretty far, right?

Mizuki: We’ll be able to take the train there.

Kikumaru: Mizuki. So you’re interested in the Christmas market too?

Mizuki: I am. It looks like an interesting event, so I’m planning on going with Yuuta after this.

Yuuta: They’re selling limited edition Christmas sweets and fresh roasted chicken and all this other good stuff.

Kikumaru: But what’s so special about chicken during Christmas?

Yuuta: Oh, yeah… it is just regular old chicken, I’ve never really thought about it before.

Tohno: Hey, that’s actually a pretty good point.

Kikumaru: Wha…

Tohno: People trying to make everything all festive and Christmas-y while not knowing its original meaning.

Mizuki: If you’re talking about the chicken, I already know the answer to it.

Mizuki: Since I’ll be hosting tonight’s party, I’d be able to explain it to you all, if you’d like?

Tohno: Just being a know-it-all is a bore. Why don’t you come up with something entertaining yourself?

Mizuki: Wha… excuse me?

Ryoga: Hey, now. Why are you getting so heated over Christmas?

Tohno: I just hate how half-assed it is. If you wanna liven things up and have fun, then you gotta be thorough about it.

Yuuta: Yeah… you do got a point.

Kikumaru: Yeah. It would be cool to look more into the meaning of it and enjoy it in your own way.

Kikumaru: If we went to the Christmas market, we could see and learn all kinds of things. I think I’ll invite everyone else from Seigaku too.

Ryoma: Huh, so now more people are gonna come?

Ryoga: The more the merrier, right? Well, let’s all get going.

[Episode 1]

Ryoga: This Japanese Christmas market’s a lot bigger than I was expecting.

Ryoma: There’s so many stalls. Plus the decorations are incredible, it actually looks pretty nice.

Ryoga: Right. Plus I heard the whole market is lit up at night.

Oishi: There’s some kind of outdoor stage over there too, what do they have planned with it?

Yuuta: They’re gonna be holding a Christmas concert. You can read about it on this flyer.

Mizuki: Well, well… it appears they’ll have a gospel choir and brass band performing. Maybe I’ll check it out later on.

Kikumaru: Huh? Where did Fuji and Taka-san go, they were just with us.

Oishi: The two of them decided to visit this big advent calendar on display.

Kikumaru: Advent…?

Ryoga: It’s just a calendar to countdown to Christmas.

Ryoma: It’s basically a wooden house with little drawers in it that are marked with the days until Christmas…

Ryoma: And each day you open a drawer there’s candy or other stuff inside.

Kikumaru: I see. Sounds cool.

Ryoga: They have a massive one on display, and they also have smaller ones over at this stall.

Mizuki: Ah, so this is what you’re referring to. It says it’s a sample product, but you’re still allowed to open the drawers.

Yuuta: Hm. Wonder what’s in them.

Mizuki: Well let’s open one and see, shall we.

Mizuki: So this one… has a candy inside.

Yuuta: A calendar with a different candy each day would be cool.

Mizuki: Not everything inside has to be candy, you know?

Mizuki: But regardless, it would be fun to count down the days to Christmas with one.

Ryoma: I wanna see what’s in the drawers in that big one on display.

Yuuta: Right. Maybe they’ll have these giant candies.

Ryoga: You wanna go check it out, too?

Kikumaru: Oh, well there’s some other stalls I wanna check out, so I’ll catch up with you guys later.

Oishi: I’ll go with you too.

Ryoga: Gotcha. Welp, see ya.

—

Oishi: What did you want to see?

Kikumaru: Tree ornaments. There’s a tree at the camp that hasn’t been decorated yet.

Kikumaru: I talked with the staff and they said I could decorate it if I bought the ornaments.

Oishi: Oh, yeah? There’s a stall right around here that’s selling all kinds of them.

Kikumaru: Oh, so there is. Here’s some ball ornaments, and some holly ornaments.

Kikumaru: But they’re all pretty basic, aren’t they? It’s gonna be hard trying to pick out ones I actually like~

???: See, I knew you guys weren’t putting any thought into it!

Oishi: Wha…

[Episode 2]

Tohno: See, I knew you guys weren’t putting any thought into it!

Oishi: Wha…

Omagari: Sheesh. You yelled so loud I thought something happened, but you were just calling out to those middle schoolers.

Tohno: Well I couldn’t just stay quiet and let those halfwits half-ass what they’re doing.

Tohno: If you’re gonna celebrate Christmas, then it’s only right that you celebrate it thoroughly and with its original meaning in mind.

Kikumaru: I’m trying, but… do the decorations have any meaning?

Tohno: Holly was used to ward off evil, and ornaments represent an abundant harvest.

Tohno: There’s always meaning and protocols in the things you prepare for this. If you don’t follow those protocols, then you can’t call them Christmas decorations.

Kikumaru: So, I guess that means we should stick with the status quo. But I was wanting unique decorations…

Oishi: Well, yeah… but maybe you could make the basic decorations look unique by using different colors?

Kikumaru: Different colors…

Tohno: Hey, now that’s a good idea!

Oishi: Oh… thank you very much.

Tohno: But you have to be smart when using different colors too. It’s become a whole lot harder now, hasn’t it~?

Tohno: But you’re the one who raised the bar on yourself, so that’s on youuuuuu!

Kikumaru: Nice going Oishi, you’ve raised the bar…

Oishi: No, I was just making a suggestion…

Tanegashima: Hey-o. I’ve got meat pies.

Tanegashima: Oh, there’s middle schoolers here too. Looks like everyone’s gettin’ merry on Christmas Eve~☆

Omagari: Was the stall crowded?

Tanegashima: It isn’t now. That tree over there’s starting to light up, so it looks like people are flocking in that direction.

Omagari: That one there? It does glow beautifully, even during the daytime.

Tohno: There’s a toy soldier hanging from the tree. They’ve got pretty good taste, don’t they?

Tanegashima: I’m pretty sure that’s just a basic decoration, but you really like it?

Tohno: I think it’d be great inspo for an Execution! I’m gonna take a closer look!

Omagari: Man, doesn’t matter what he sees, he’s always thinking of executions. That figures.

Tanegashima: Atsu’s very committed, especially when it comes to his Executions. He’s always got his antenna up.

Oishi: True… that must be why he said Christmas should be celebrated thoroughly.

Tanegashima: Yeah, maybe so. Or he’s just the type of guy who wants people to put in the effort with what they’re doing.

Kikumaru: Yeah, true…

Kikumaru: Well, let’s put in all the effort we can then. We’ll pick out decorations with creative colors.

Oishi: Yeah. Let’s do it.

[Episode 3]

Yuuta: These chocolate strawberries are so good!

Mizuki: They said these chocolate-covered apple desserts are exclusive to this market as well.

Mizuki: There’s many families visiting here as well. This certainly does seem to be an event that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Yuuta: Yeah. It is Christmas after all, I even saw some kids buying gifts.

Mizuki: That’s right, there will be a gift exchange at tonight’s party, have you gotten anything yet?

Yuuta: I haven’t yet. I’ve been checking out all the stalls, but I don’t know what to buy.

Mizuki: Why don’t you try getting something you would be happy to receive?

Yuuta: Mmm… for me, that’d be sweets. Maybe we can check them out?

Mizuki: Of course. There’s a sweets stall right around the corner, let’s go check it out.

—

Ryoma: They’re doing another street performance over there. Juggling this time.

Ryoga: Wow. I still think the clown walking on stilts was pretty cool, though.

Ryoma: Hm…? They’re selling socks over here. They look a little big, though.

Ryoga: A little. But with your size Chibisuke, you could fit your whole body into one, huh?

Ryoma: Don’t treat me like a kid.

Ryoga: Kakaka. I’m just kidding.

Ryoga: But stockings do take me back.

Ryoma: What do you mean?

Ryoga: Back in the US, we’d put letters in our stockings asking Santa for gifts.

Ryoga: I thought we could spend Christmas together like we did back then. It’s been so long, though.

Ryoma: What’s wrong. You’re getting all deep all of a sudden.

Ryoga: Mm. Yeah, maybe?

Ryoga: If there’s anything you want, just let me know by the end of tonight.

Ryoga: I’ll let Santa know too.

Ryoma: Are you treating me like a kid again?

Ryoga: Hey, now. Santa only visits good kiddos, remember?

Ryoga: C’mon, let’s go check out the other stalls.

Ryoma: Hey, don’t pull me…

Ryoma: Jeez, you’re a handful, Big Bro.

[Episode 4]

Kintarou: Hey, hey! Why don’t they sell any takoyaki~?

Chitose: Kin-chan, this is a Christmas market, they’re not gonna have takoyaki everywhere like Osaka.

Ishida: But the octopus is red and the seaweed’s green. They could sell it as Christmas colors.

Chitose: Well, that is one way to look at it. Maybe they do sell it somewhere.

Chitose: Let’s browse the stalls while we look for some takoyaki, okay?

—

Kai: Hey, Rin. That scarf looks so thick and fluffy and warm.

Kai: …Huh, he’s gone?

Chinen: He left to go get something to drink.

Chinen: …Wait, Kei-kun’s not here either.

Kite: He went to the stalls over there to purchase some hot food.

Kai: Everyone’s all over the place.

Kite: You can’t control what other people want to do.

Kai: Whoa, they have a plush toy shaped like a tree. How cool.

Chinen: They’ve got all kinds of Christmas costumes too. I’m gonna look for a black Santa suit in the sale cart.

Kai: Black Santa suit?

Chinen: Fufu… I wanna be a black Santa that’ll scare all the naughty little children.

Kintarou: Huhhh! Mister, you’re gonna be Santa?

Ishida: A black Santa costume, that’d be a cool way to change things up.

Chitose: There is a party tonight, maybe I should look for something too.

Kite: Oh, so you’re all here too.

Kintarou: If you’re gonna be Santa, then please give me a present.

Chinen: Yes, right… if you’re a good little boy, then I’ll give you a present. But if you’re a naughty little boy, then I might take you away somewhere.

Kintarou: I’m a good boy!

Ishida: That’s right, Kintarou-han’s been working real hard in tennis.

Chinen: Yes, yes, I see. Alright, then I’ll give you one of the cookies I just bought.

Kintarou: Yay! I got a present!

Kite: You certainly are kind for a black Santa.

Chinen: That’s because he wasn’t a naughty child. I’m saving the scares for the naughty children… fufu…

Kai: Well I’ve been a good boy too, so does that mean I get a present?

Kite: And just what makes you believe that? Once you’ve made up for all the times you were tardy, then you can talk.

Tanishi: Hey, guys! There’s these huge sausage kebabs over here!

Kai: Whoaa, those look so good. I’m gonna go buy one too.

Kintarou: Sounds great. I’ll go have one too!

Kite: So carefree… the lot of you.

Chitose: But it’s Christmas, so it’s good to have fun. These happy vibes are actually pretty nice.

[Episode 5]

Ryoga: Here, Chibisuke. I bought you some hot chocolate, this should warm you up a little.

Ryoma: Thank you. Looks good.

Ryoma: Whew… whew…

Ryoga: Too hot?

Ryoma: I just don’t wanna burn my tongue.

Ryoga: Oh snap, that is really hot. I’ll let mine cool off too.

—

Ryoga: By the way, have you seen anything you liked at the stalls?

Ryoma: Nope… Why?

Ryoga: I already told you. I’m gonna tell Santa what you want.

Ryoma: This joke again. You’ve been teasing me all day.

Ryoga: (He thinks it’s a joke? Man, this kid…)

Krauser: Ryoma, Merry Christmas!

Ryoma: Merry Christmas. So you came with them, Krauser.

Yagyuu: He saw the ad of this place on the TV and invited me.

Niou: I came along since there’s stuff I wanted to buy, but this place is actually pretty nice.

Krauser: So you came with your brother, Ryoma. I’m jealous that you’re able to spend Christmas with your family.

Ryoma: Really? We just happened to be around each other today.

Ryoga: Oh, c’mon, quit lying. You know you chose to stick with me.

Niou: How about you try some of this magic gum? Eat this, and it’ll make you honest in no time.

Krauser: I tried it earlier and it made me very honest. I highly recommend it!

Yagyuu: Uh no, it’s snapping gum…

Krauser: Yagyuu-san, you ruined the prank.

Ryoma: Yeah, I’m gonna pass on that then.

Niou: Aw man, you’re no fun.

Ryoma: Heh… you’ve got a ways to go.

Ryoga: (…Chibisuke’s looking like he’s having fun.)

Yagyuu: By the way, there’s a Christmas concert being held soon, will you be going?

Ryoma: It’s an outdoor stage. It’ll probably be too cold to just sit still and listen to the performance.

Niou: I wouldn’t worry too much about that. Apparently there’s heaters placed at the foot of the seats.

Ryoma: Huh, it shouldn’t be too bad then… Okay, let’s go.

Ryoma: Hey, get a move on, Big Bro.

Ryoga: Hey, hey, don’t just leave me behind.

Ryoga: (I was hoping I could find out what gift he wants.)

Ryoga: …Being Santa isn’t easy.

[Episode 6]

Ryoma: They had so many singers, they were all extraordinary.

Ryoga: That choir was legit, wasn’t it. They performed the usual Christmas songs but their take on them was pretty refreshing.

Krauser: I was surprised to see a koto being played with the brass band! It was very Japanese!

Yuuta: Whoa… the wind’s strong…

Mizuki: Now that we’re away from the heaters, it’s going to feel extra cold.

Tohno: Huh? How pathetic, you’re shivering so much over this?

Ryoma: So you watched the concert too, senpai.

Tohno: Their performance wasn’t that bad to listen to.

Mizuki: It was a very nice concert. The music was superb, but the host’s presentation was excellent as well.

Krauser: He also shared a lot of knowledge about Christmas. It was very interesting.

Mizuki: I learned methods on livening things up with conversational skills and when to take breaks for tonight’s party, it was very informative as well.

Ryoma: Oh that’s right, you are hosting tonight’s party, huh.

Mizuki: Yes, I even prepared a script as the host that I’ve been working on as we speak, I intend to hold a fun party.

Tohno: That sounds great!! I’m looking forward to it, okay?

Mizuki: Oh…

Tohno: Well you said it yourself, you’re putting in the effort as a host, so everyone at the camp should at least get excited over that.

Tohno: But if you end up letting us down, it’s not gonna be pretty.

Mizuki: …Yes, of course, I understand.

Yuuta: Mizuki-san… I’m rooting for you!

Mizuki: Worry not, I will ensure that it will be a fun party.

Mizuki: …It will, it absolutely will.

Ryoga: Not getting a lil’ nervous, are you?

Mizuki: As if I would. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must finish the preparations for tonight.

Yuuta: Oh, I’ll head back with you. I think I’ve seen enough of the market.

Tohno: I should head back and do one last checkup on some things.

Krauser: What will you two do now?

Ryoma: Why don’t we head back too, Big Bro? It’s getting really cold again.

Ryoga: Yeah… I’ve still got things I wanna do. You can go on ahead without me.

Ryoma: Oh…

Ryoga: Alrighty… time to start working as Santa.

[Episode 7]

Clerk: Thank you very much.

Ryoga: …Okay, got it.

Ryoga: (Chibisuke said he didn’t want anything… but when we were together, he kept staring at this.)

Mouri: Oh, hey.

Kabaji: Good evening.

Ryoga: Oh, it’s kinda weird seeing you all together.

Ochi: We just happened to run into each other at the moment.

Mouri: Did you come to buy Christmas presents?

Ryoga: I actually plan on becoming Santa. Don’t tell anyone else what I bought, please.

Atobe: I see, so it’s a secret gift.

Ryoga: Well, yeah. You guys buying gifts for other people too?

Ochi: Mouri gave me a gift this morning, so I came here to return the favor.

Mouri: It was just a lil’ something to express my gratitude, I didn’t mean to make you feel obligated.

Atobe: I’m getting gifts for all of my club members at the camp.

Atobe: Right, Kabaji, show me the list of what everyone wants.

Kabaji: Right.

Ryoga: That’s nice, so they told you directly what they wanted.

Ryoga: I couldn’t get a straight answer, so I had to pick one I thought they’d like.

Ochi: But if you chose it yourself then that means you put thought into it, right.

Mouri: Yeah, plus I think it’d be a nice surprise.

Ryoga: But if they end up not liking it, I’m gonna be really upset.

Kabaji: When it comes to gifts, I believe people are more happy that you got them something rather than what you got them…

Atobe: Heh, that’s a good point.

Ryoga: Yeah, I get that… I hope that’ll be the case for this.

Kabaji: Why not write a letter and include it with your gift?

Mouri: There you go. A letter would be a great way to express your feelings directly.

Ryoga: That would be a whole lot better than just giving them a present. I’ll give it a try.

Ryoga: I wonder if they sell any stationery around here…

Ryoga: …Oh, I found some good ones.

[Episode 8]

Ryoma: Man, where did Big Bro run off to…

???: Ho-ho-hooo!

Ryoma: …

Ryoma: …Was that your Santa impersonation?

Ryoga: Yep, pretty much.

Ryoga: I told you you could go on ahead without me, but it looks like you stayed just to look for me.

Ryoma: Yeah, ‘cause you just disappeared and I thought something was wrong.

Ryoga: Everything’s fine, I told you there was some things I wanted to do, didn’t I?

Ryoga: But I’m sorry if I made you feel lonely.

Ryoma: I didn’t feel lonely…

Ryoga: I bet. ‘Specially since you got all these nice friends around you, huh.

Ryoga: I was really glad to see you smiling and having a good time with them earlier today.

Ryoma: Why would you be happy to see me smiling?

Ryoga: Because you’re my little brother, of course I’d be happy to see you happy.

Ryoga: I also figured you’d be fine with me being gone since they’re here, too.

Ryoma: Well, I guess being with them is pretty nice.

Ryoma: But you’re alright to hang out with too, Big Bro…

Ryoma: It feels a little better to have you around than not… Just a little, though.

Ryoga: Aw, what a cute thing to say.

Ryoma: Yeah, never mind. I can’t with your jokes.

Ryoga: I’m being serious here. You little fart~

Ryoma: Can you stop… Quit messing up my hair…

Kikumaru: Oh, there he is. Shorty!

Fuji: You’ll be late to the Christmas party if you don’t head back soon, you know?

Ryoga: Ah, it’s about time now, huh.

Ryoma: …Achoo.

Fuji: Fufu, it’s gotten pretty cold too.

Kikumaru: They were giving away these hand warmers for free. I have some more, so you can use them.

Ryoma: Thanks.

Fuji: Take one too, senpai.

Ryoga: Oh, thank you.

Fuji: …Huh, it’s snowing.

Kikumaru: Huhhh. The forecast didn’t mention it was gonna snow.

Ryoga: But seeing all these lights with the snow sure is beautiful. It’s cold, but maybe it’s lucky that we got to see this.

Ryoma: …Yeah. I’m glad we didn’t leave yet.

[Episode 9]

Mizuki: Now, let the party commence. Everyone, please raise your glasses of juice.

All: Merry Christmas! …And happy birthday!!

Ryoma: Wha… how’d you all know it’s my birthday?

Kikumaru: Senpai had spread the word about it. We may as well celebrate them together, anyway.

Ryoga: The more people celebrate, the better, right?

Ryoma: Can’t you just mind your own business… well, it’s fine.

—

Mizuki: —All right, we will now begin the gift exchange.

Mizuki: Exchanging gifts during Christmas time is said to be a custom born out of feelings of mutual consideration for each other.

Mizuki: So let us celebrate this Christmas gracefully, and share our compassion with others.

Tohno: SURPRISE!!!

Oishi: Senpai…?

Mizuki: …Oh, what is it?

Tohno: I’ll take it from here. Not that you’re a bad host or anything, you seem to know what Christmas is all about and have done a good job livening things up.

Mizuki: Nhm. Why, I’m honored.

Tohno: But I wanna spice things up a bit. I’m gonna turn this little gift exchange into an official competition!

Mizuki: What… a competition…?

Tohno: Everyone will draw numbers and choose their gift in numerical order. The catch is that the even numbers can steal a gift from another person.

Kikumaru: That’s different, but it sounds interesting.

Mizuki: But, weren’t you the one who had said that it’s important to hold these events while knowing its original meaning? Does this not contradict that statement?

Tohno: This kind of competition is popular in Europe and the US. Besides, it’s still a gift exchange.

Tohno: Look here, these are the numbers you’ll draw that’ll decide what order you’ll pick the presents.

Tohno: And these extra slips are a little gift from me…

Tohno: They’re “Execution Test Subject Tickets”. This is a perfect time to use them!

Oishi: E-Execution test subject…!?

Tohno: I’ve hidden some of these tickets in the presents. Whoever ends up with one will get executed.

Tohno: It’s one of the best surprises you’ll ever receive. Hyaahyaahyaah!!

Mizuki: E-Excuse me!?

Kikumaru: That’s not good… if we choose a gift that has one of those tickets in it, we’ll get executed!

Ryoga: Haha, how fun!

Oishi: Huh…?

Ryoga: It’s a big surprise, but you may as well have fun with it, right?

Ryoma: I won’t care if I end up with one of those execution tickets. I’ll just get my revenge on him.

Kikumaru: Oh, really? You guys really are brothers~

Mizuki: You certainly are brave. Very well, as the host, I will brace myself and join the fun.

Mizuki: Now… let the gift competition commence!

[Episode 10]

Mizuki: Everyone, this concludes tonight’s entertainment. Please continue to enjoy your meals and merriment to your heart’s content.

—

Tohno: Keh, the surprise I worked so hard on got ruined…

Mizuki: So it did, all of the upperclassmen ended up with your execution tickets…

Mizuki: But today is the Holy Night of mercy, so why not spend the rest of Christmas Eve peacefully?

Tohno: Hmph… well, I guess I can just give ‘em all a good beating later.

Oni: Hey, that apple pie you like so much is about to run out.

Tohno: Huhh? Please, I’m gonna get some regardless.

Mizuki: *sigh*… I am utterly exhausted…

Kikumaru: Nice job. Big surprise aside, you made it a lot of fun, Mizuki.

Mizuki: It’s only natural that my skills would produce a fun party.

Kikumaru: Nyahaha. Of course, Mizuki.

Kikumaru: Oh, yeah. I’m gonna check out the gift I got.

Kikumaru: I’m happy to see all this candy in here. But what do you even call this thing…?

Oishi: It’s a Christmas Boot.

Kikumaru: Oh, yeah, that is a fitting name.

Oishi: Wow, there’s a snowman cookie in there too.

Kikumaru: You want some? Okay, I’ll share it with you, Oishi~

—

Ryoga: Looks like Christmas Eve’s almost over. Feels like the whole day just flew by.

Ryoma: It does. With going to the Christmas market and this party…

Ryoma: Oh yeah, I know I’m a day late for this. But happy birthday, Big Bro.

Ryoga: Oh wow, the birthday boy just congratulated me. Thank you.

Ryoma: Also, thanks for inviting me to the Christmas market today. It was actually kinda fun.

Ryoga: That’s good. I’m glad.

—

Ryoga: (Okay… is Chibisuke fast asleep?)

Ryoga: (Good… sleeping soundly. I’ll leave his present here, then.)

Ryoma: Mm…

Ryoga: (Crap, is he waking up?)

Ryoma: Big Bro… let’s go to this stall next…

Ryoga: (What the, he’s talking in his sleep. Must be dreaming about today.)

Ryoga: Merry Christmas… and happy birthday, too.

The following morning—

Ryoma: A present and Christmas card…? Is this…

Card: “Santa brought you a present, Chibisuke! I hope you like it.”

Card: “I’m glad I got to spend Christmas Eve with you again.”

Ryoma: Heh… typical, Big Bro.

[Epilogue]

The day after Christmas—

Mizuki: We’ll store these decorations away in this box. Please do not mix any of them up.

Kikumaru: Huhh, I won’t be able to tell the difference. You’re gonna have to label them with magic marker or something~

Mizuki: Just pay attention to the size of the decorations inside, please. We’re sorting them by size.

Tohno: Hey, I already took care of the decorations over there.

Kikumaru: Thank you very much, senpai.

Tohno: I’m not gonna rest until all this stuff’s been taken care of.

Kikumaru: Wow, so thorough.

Kikumaru: And that surprise on Christmas Eve really had us on the edge of our seats, even though it was kinda scary.

Mizuki: Yes, it was. Although it was unexpected, it did make things a lot of fun thanks to you.

Tohno: Kuukuku! Is that so?

Tohno: Maybe I should keep it up and try doing something interesting for New Year’s too, eh?

Tohno: Like maybe we could use actual bodies as the hagoita, and ring in the New Year with screams around the camp, and instead of a happy face in “Fukuwarai” we could do one of anguish…

Mizuki: It’s still too early to be thinking of New Year’s… let’s prioritize cleaning up after Christmas right now.

—

Ryoma: Hah…!

Ryoga: Yo, Chibisuke. You’ve been really going at it with that wall since this morning.

Ryoga: So you’re already out of the Christmas spirit?

Ryoma: Yep. I wanna become even stronger.

Ryoga: It’s always about aiming for the top with you.

Ryoga: That competitive streak hasn’t changed since you were a kid.

Ryoma: Well yeah, I’m not gonna lose to anybody… including you, Big Bro.

Ryoga: Oh-ho, is that right.

Ryoma: How about I show you just how strong I’ve become. Let’s have a serious match today.

Ryoga: …Whoa there. I hate to break it to you, but I’m gonna hold off on that for now.

Ryoga: But if it’s just some simple smackin’ the ball, we can do that all you want.

Ryoma: Tch… whatever.

Ryoma: Alright, let’s take it from here.

Ryoga: Heh… you got it.

[STORY END]

#tenirabi #tenipuri #my post

[aquamarine-oceanfront]

Details about the Amazing Digital Circus pop-up shop in Japan (and the exclusive premiere of episode 2 associated with it)

This post's title kind of sums up the basics, but here's some background: in early March of this year, a Japanese company called InfoLens entered a licensing agreement with Glitch Productions to sell products based on The Amazing Digital Circus. The same press release also announced that they would open a pop-up store in Tokyo, which would operate from April 26th to May 12th. (If I'm not mistaken, InfoLens seems to specialize in these sorts of agreements - they've made similar deals and pop-up shops for everything from Apex Legends to Garten of Banban.) Around this time, they also started up an official Japanese Twitter account devoted to the series.

Close to a month later, they would announce more details about the shop, including what goods they would sell (a mixture of existing merchandise from Glitch's online store and newly-made ones) and plans for a second location in Osaka (running June 7-23). This also coincided with the first time Glitch Productions' main Twitter account publicly acknowledged any of this (as far as I know).

Not long after this came another announcement: they would be holding a raffle where the winners would attend the world premiere of the series' second episode on April 25th, the day before the Tokyo store opened to the public.

So how'd all this pan out? I'll elaborate below the jump, but here's a picture to set the scene:

(Source: Reika Ō, Japanese VA for Gangle and Zooble)

To start with, the Pop-Up Store itself has a number of things aside from merchandise - like the life-size Pomni statue seen above. (The design was the work of Zachary Preciado - it bears a resemblance to her AniMatez figure.)

There's also a corner decorated to look like Kaufmo's room, with a Ragatha (and, at least sometimes, Jax) cutout & oversized die (for sitting on). I believe it's meant to be used for photographs.

(Sources, from left to right: IshiiNaki and the official Japanese Amazing Digital Circus Twitter account)

Other decorations include curtains, TVs displaying promotional clips (seemingly just existing ones on Glitch's YouTube channel), a floating inflatable replica of Bubble, an equally inflatable kiddie pool holding a whole bunch of plushies for sale, and some giant pseudo-toy blocks. The following pictures collectively show all of these:

(Sources, from left to right: Soichiro Sugawara - Japanese VA of Caine & Jax - Shiori Honma - Japanese VA of Ragatha - and Columbo-san Games)

Also, while I'm not currently aware of any recordings of this, according to Arran (Pomni's Japanese VA), the store plays specially-recorded audio of Pomni and Caine. She also mentions "treasured materials" (秘蔵資料) as another point of interest, which segues into my next topic:

(Sources, from top to bottom: Reika Ō, Columbo-san Games again, Glitch Productions, and Shiori Honma)

Several photographs have a glass display in the background. Thus far, I haven't seen any closer pictures of it - given that there appears to be a "no photography/video recording" placard nearby, that'd explain why. The actual contents aren't especially clear - there's a picture of the main cast doing their bind poses at the back of the case, but the sheets of paper(?) underneath look like they could be concept art or something similar. I'm not sure. Hopefully this gets released later down the line.

With all that said, what about the advance screening? Well, as seen in Glitch's photos of the event, Kevin and Luke made a surprise appearance in person to talk about the series. While the attendees have been told not to reveal anything about the new episode until its wider release on May 3rd, one of them took notes on the experience as a personal reminder and revealed some interesting tidbits in the process. I'm not the best at Japanese, but here's my rough, sometimes rather loose translation of what they wrote:

★ The episode, as well as the announcements before and after it, were dubbed in Japanese. Furthermore, the announcement before the screening was recorded specifically for the occasion. Pretty wild.¹ ∙ Before the show: Caine + Pomni ∙ After the show: Jax ("Good to know it was just a dream"² - this elicited shrieks in the venue) ★ Before the main event began, they played the existing promo videos on a loop in both English & Japanese. ★ I expected the audience to be overwhelmingly female, but in reality there were quite a lot of men in attendance, too. ★ Kevin (the CEO) and Luke frequently said things in Japanese, like "arigatō (thank you)" and "surimasen (excuse me)." The one that made me laugh the most was Kevin saying "…Sō desu ne (Yes, indeed)… (thoughtful)" ★ The reason they held the screening in Japan was twofold: they wanted to help spread Western animation to the country & they simply love Japan. ★ Episode 2 really is good, but my brain hasn't fully processed it right now, so it's better not to get your hopes too high.³ 🥲✨✊

¹ Originally "やば" (yaba), which appears to be a variant of "やばい" (yabai). This word can mean many different things - literally "terrible" or "very bad," but also used as slang for "great" or "far-out" - and I felt that "wild" was a reasonably apt choice for this context. ² Another attendee's comments on Twitter reference this quote as well. ³ To be absolutely clear: this appears to be a warning against unreasonably high expectations (since the OP hadn't quite digested the episode at the time of writing), not discouraging getting hyped to any degree.

Another attendee had a shorter account of the experience, summed up in two tweets. (Again, please forgive me if there are any errors in these translations!)

I was chosen and went to the advance screening…! I definitely didn't expect there to be specially-recorded voice work and art (to remind people of their manners) before the show… Especially Jax's closing remarks: "'You all can leave through the exit. Ah, [but] that's none of my business." It was way too crazy, hearing the voices of the agonized nerds in the venue. It was great lol Two producers made a surprise trip to Japan and took part in a Q&A session. They said that Popee the Performer was one of the show's influences!

(It's worth noting that Gooseworx herself has mentioned Popee as an influence in the past before, specifically saying Jax and Gangle were respectively inspired by Popee and Kedamono - though, in both cases, she also mentioned that there was more to her characters than just resembling the latter two.)

To finish this post off, here's a couple more images (both posted on Twitter by Shiori Honma) I wanted to share:

Honma posts with her character's standee.

All five of the Japanese dub's primary voice actors, together with Pomni. (If I'm not mistaken, the tweet's text says none of them knew in advance that the screening of episode 2 would be in Japanese.)

#tadc #the amazing digital circus #amazing digital circus #digital circus #japan

[yyh4ever]

Undercover Operation on the "Poaching" Beach!

"Yu Yu Hakusho 100% Maji Battle" Summer Event

This summer event was first held in 2021, from July 15th to July 31st.

Story: A group of mermaids has been captured by a poacher who plans to trade them in an auction. Koenma sends Botan on an undercover mission to find and gather evidence on the case. But, she's not alone…

Translation:

Undercover Operation on the "Poaching" Beach!

[At the Spirit World]

Koenma: Hmmm, what should I do?...

Botan: Koenma-sama, you wanted to see me?

Koenma: Oh, Botan. I'm a little worried about something in the Human World.

Botan: Worried about, something?

Koenma: Yeah... Poaching of youkai, by humans.

T/N: Poaching, similar to smuggling, is the illegal taking of wild plants or animals, specially fish in Japan. In this story, the target is a rare youkai: mermaids.

Botan: Eh!?

Koenma: It seems that in the Human World, there are still those who capture rare youkai, to sell them off behind the scenes.

Botan: It's terrible...

Koenma: Their base is this beach. It looks like just another beach on the surface, but…

Koenma: The mermaids caught in this sea are going to be traded in an auction.

Koenma: The auction is in three days. I want you to infiltrate into it and get the evidence.

Koenma: Don't let them notice you.

Botan: Yes!

 [At the Human World]

Botan: This is that beach. It just looks like a resort to me, but…

Botan: Even so, the security is pretty tight … it seems that there are also some youkai among the guests.

Botan: Good grief! Even though the number of humans who do bad things has decreased…

Botan: I can't believe there are still people like Tarukane doing evil deeds.

Yukina: Botan-san…

Yukina: Are there youkai being held captive here?

Botan: Yukina-chan. That's right, but…

Botan: Are you really sure about that? You helped me infiltrate.

Yukina: Yes. I've been helped by everyone...

Yukina: This time I want to help!

Botan: Yukina-chan ... all right, help me out!

Yukina: Yes!

Shizuru: Mmmm, this tropical juice is delicious! If there were cocktails, I'd have nothing to complain about.

Botan: Ummm, so … why is Shizuru-san here?

Shizuru: Oh, I heard the two of you were going to a beach resort. It was so unkind of you, why didn't you invite me?

Botan: Uh, um, Shizuru, this is...

Shizuru: I know. You're looking for the mermaids that are going under the hammer, right?

Shizuru: This kind of infiltration is all about bluffing.

Yukina/Botan: Bluffing??

Shizuru: Yukina-chan, can you help me out a little?

Yukina: Ye, yes.

Shizuru: Hey, hey you, fella.

Security Guard: Yes. Is everything alright?

Shizuru: I'm tonight's guest. I'd like to take a look at the merchandise…

Shizuru: …of the auction.

Security Guard: What?

Yukina: Um ... Shizuru-san, are you okay...?

Security Guard: (Hmm!? Is there a koorime (ice woman) with her, no way!?)

Security Guard: (She must be a great VIP guest to take such a rare youkai along…!)

Security Guard: Excu, excuse me ... The merchandise is not open to the public…

Shizuru: It doesn't make any sense. The owner said you could show me?

Security Guard: Is that so? … I'm, I'm sorry. I was not informed where the subinventory is…

Shizuru: Humph, I see ... all right. You're dismissed.

Botan: Wow, you're great, Shizuru-san! I was wondering which celebrity you were!

Shizuru: Thanks to Yukina-chan.

Yukina: Uh, me? I didn't do anything?

Botan: But, we're in a bind. Even the security personnel, they don't know their whereabouts.

Botan: We have to collect a little more information…

Shizuru: That's true.

[The girls start searching for evidence...]

Botan: Hmmm, I can't find anything.

Botan: I've been all over the beach, but there are no suspicious buildings.

Shizuru: It seems the real guests were not informed of the mermaid's location either.

Yukina: Uh, could it be...

Yukina: Do you think a barrier has been put up in order to prevent detection from the outside?

Botan: Huh?

Yukina: When I was imprisoned, a barrier was also put up, so that my location was unknown.

T/N: When Yukina was taken prisoner at Tarukane's mansion, Hiei couldn’t find her, because of the barrier of amulets.

Botan: I see…

Shizuru: In other words, their location is out of the question unless we find the boss.

Botan: The poachers are said to have a distinctive tattoo on their arms. Let's use that mark to find the enemy!

Shizuru: That's all we've got. I don't see anyone who looks like an executive…

Shizuru: The enemy does not make friends, maybe he is the type of person who doesn't trust anyone.

 [The girls split up]

Botan: Huh ... I can't find it...

Botan: No word from the girls either, huh?

Botan: The auction will start in the evening! What should I do … kyaaaa

 *BAM* (Botan bumps into something)

???: Hey, watch out!

Botan: I, I'm sorry.

… Whaat, you're the one who bumped into me.

Botan: …Ah!

Botan: (On his arm, a tattoo!)

Botan: (I found him! That guy's the poacher…)

Botan: (If I follow him, he will surely lead me to the mermaids' hiding place...!)

Botan: (Behind the island? This place is like a cave cove…)

Poacher: ...Okay, the merchandise is all set. Now all I have to do is start the auction at sunset.

Mermaids: *squeal*, *squeal*…

Botan: (There they are…! Such rare mermaids!!)

Botan: I found them at last!!

Poacher: !!

Botan: The illegal trader who captures and sells mermaids ... I have you by the tail, you devil!

Poacher: ......

Poacher: Hu, ha-ha…! It seems you're the one who revealed the tail!

T/N: The japanse expression "to grab/have someone by the tail" used by Botan is similar to the english expression and it means "to catch someone out", "to have evidence". The poacher is making a joke with the expression, by saying Botan was the one who revealed her tail first, as he had noticed her presence beforehand.

Botan: Eh!?

Poacher: I've noticed someone sniffing around this auction.

Poacher: I bumped into you on purpose to show you my tattoo, and lure you here!

Botan: What…!

Poacher: I also know that you have two friends.

Poacher: Such a shame, even if you call for help now, it will be all over by the time they get here!

Botan: Daaa…aaaamn

Botan: ...Just kidding.

Botan: Who said I had only two friends?

Poacher: What...!?

  [The cavalry has arrived ]

Koto: Everyone!! I hope you can see this footage clearly!

Koto: I never thought I would be at the crime scene for such a big scoop! Please, burn this video evidence into your memory!

Poacher: A camera?! Damn!! Stop! Agh!

Juri: Ah! I'm sorry! I'm can't adjust my force very well!

Botan: I thought something like this might happen, so I had them go undercover separately from us.

Botan: The more (friends) the merrier!

Botan: Come on, mermaids! Run away now!

Mermaids: *SQUEAL*…

Botan: Huh? Can't you escape?

Ruka: It's because of this barrier. It seems to keep them from getting out.

Ruka: Leave it to Kekkaishi Ruka.

T/N: Kekkaishi Ruka = Ruka, the Barrier Master.

*crackle* ! *crackle* *crackle* *crackle* !!

*SHATTER* !!

Botan: It's broken! Everybody, now!!

Koto: Please, take a look!

Koto: The freed mermaids are fleeing to the ocean all at once!

Juri: The mermaids are swimming in the blue sea! Oh my, it's beautiful!

Poacher: Aah, oh no, my, profits are…

Poacher: Damn you … How dare you! Darned women!

Botan: Hyaah!!

Yusuke: Oi, oi, old man.

Kuwabara: Who said it's only women?

Botan: Yusuke! Kuwa-chan!

Yusuke: Yo, Botan.

Botan: Why are you both here?

Shizuru: I called them.

Botan: Shizuru-san!

Shizuru: The more the merrier, right?

Botan: Ahaha, no doubt!

Yusuke: Well, let's get this thing started!

[Yusuke and Kuwabara defeat the poacher]

Yukina: Oh, the mermaids escaped safely. Thank goodness...

Kuwabara: It's all thanks to Yukina-san's great work!!

Yukina: Wow, I didn't do anything! But I'm glad. Be free…

Botan: Well, all that's left is a report to Koemma-sama.

...However

Botan: Since we've come all this way, we gotta enjoy the resort beach!

Yusuke: Hehe, now you're talking!

Kuwabara: Great! Let's enjoy ourselves to the fullest!

Shizuru: Hmm? Ha-ha, towards the horizon...

Botan: Aah! The mermaids are waving!

Botan: I'm happy for them! They won't get caught anymore!

 Video:

- The End -

The more the merrier! ♡ Botan has a lot of friends. I'm happy the Cult Trio: Koto, Juri and Ruka also helped. I also translated another summer story called "Memories of a Summer".

#密漁ビーチに潜入作戦 #Undercover Operation on the Poaching Beach #Yu Yu Hakusho 100% Maji Battle #botan #shizuru #yukina #ruka #Koto #juri #yusuke #kuwabara #koenma #yu yu hakusho summer #the more the merrier

[jazzzyx]

Raison d'etre Prologue 1

-Beginning Story 1—

(The first year of establishment of ES! Mid March. Saiku Sects boarding house in Paris)

Shu:

In other words, I still get ridiculed about my string phones. I wonder if there is-

Mika:

I wonder what yayu is doing? It sounds cute~!

Shu:

Am I being laughed at? Who are you acting unfamiliar with.

Mika:

Hmm, don't cha think it is different from being ridiculed? Are ya amused?

Shu:

Eh, are you distinguished between the two? And are you thinking of the former as slander and the latter as a favorable expression?

Mika:

Well, I can't think of difficult things…..

Why’re ya so irritated Oshi-san? Was’ funny hearin ya talk about your own rules in your room chattin’?

When I'd bring my phone in my room, my roommate would say, “Ah, today is the day kagehira talks with his Oshi-san on the phone”.

I'm so Grateful for that~ im happy~

Shu:

Are you angry at the fact the string phone is tied to me?

Perhaps I'm still a grumpy, anachronistic elderly needy caregiver among the insidious folks of my homeland?

HA! Not being able to refresh the inside of my head is proof of my aging. Nodayo!

Mika:

Are you try’n to hit me? Oshi-san?

What's happened? Was there somethin’ you didn't like about college?

Shu:

Are you in any position to be worrying about others?

Have you become noble?

That's right! You are already a full-fledged person! Can you walk on your own without me taking care of you??

Congratulations pinocchio!? I'm glad you've become human.

Mika:

(Hmmm. After all, Oshi-san’s usually frustrated all the time. Ru~**

In the case of Oshi-san, the more excited he gets and in a good mood, the angrier he gets.)

(Seriously, why are ya’ so angry? Well, it's probably all my fault)

(I have no idea….)

(Oshi-san said to me, “you came all this way to paris, even though i was busy at the end of the school year”.)

(Far from complimenting me, he started to get irritated at me when I said I'd’ be livin’ in seisokan as usual from next year.)

(What am I doing? Tis different from oshi-san's plan isn't it??)

(It's a burn.. Work on Valkyrie is basically done only in japan, so its more efficient to have it done locally)

(Unlike Oshi-san, i don't really want ta’ study in a foreign country. I cant enter the same university as my Oshi-san either)

(Is it selfish of me to say I want to live with my Oshi-san?)

(I'm not going to bother the people at Oshi-sans boarding house, can i do anything even if I'm here?)

(I'm lonely, but…… is it annoying if I snuggle up to Oshi-san just because I'm alone?)

Shu:

Non! Are you still in there kagehira-kuun? Did you forget to wind up the mainspring?

Mika:

Hmmm… did you call me “kun”~? I feel so distant and lonely.!

Shu:

Is this enough? Because I am too familiar with you right?

I'm confused because of that, and I'm serious about preparing a new life for you. I bowed my head to the landlord, secured a room, and got all the furniture ready, Kakaka!

Well, it all ended up being in vain! Laugh at me!

Mika:

Hmmm..? if my Oshi-san wants me to, I'll start the procedures fer’ things like moving from now on, right?

Shu:

I don't need it, I don't need it! Bring back the furniture and other items that I prepared for you, sell them, and use them as funds for Valkyrie activities!

By the way, do you take pride in the fact that you will also have to go home and sell the works that I have created in this past year!?

We werent able to perform satisfactorily in that “SS”, great war that divided our world..

I was forced to do a slapstick drama that I wasn't used to, and it probably ruined my reputation.

In order to wipe away that defect, let's start a new artistic activity with the sold funds.

In fact, it wasn't the time to get carried away with the new life yet..

Mika:

I can't stand it… i didnt think my Oshi-san was lookin’ forward to living with me that much..

Shu:

Who?... What?..... Who was looking forward to living with you?!?!?

Don't be a self-indulgent kagehira! Mostly, you're always suggestive, don't go misunderstanding me..

((Phone Ringing))

Shu:

Eh??

Mika:

What's happened, Oshi-san?

Shu:

Stop that timid animal-like behavior! Frustrating!

It's just one phone call. But while guests are here..? The landlord doesn't even call me out of consideration, but… is there something urgent?

Mika:

Call? Ah~ I should really be quiet.

(Hmm, it might have been helpful. This will cutoff the strange atmosphere.)

Shu:

Hello, what is it brother? It's unusual to hear from you.

Oh, oh, it's annoying isn't it? I'm doing well, I begged you to leave me alone. Jus-

…….

—-...Eh?

…….. ……. ……. …..Understood.

Hmmm…I'll be back soon.

Mika:

What's the matter? It looks like you've died and come back. What happened?

Shu:

Grandfather……

Mika: Huh?

Shu:

My Grandfather passed away early this morning.

-Story 1 End-

#ensemble stars #valkyrie enstars #raison d'etre #shu itsuki #mika kagehira

[more-than-a-princess]

@awesomeuchuu​ asked:  👤 + Eichi 8D  👤 + May I please ask for Kanata too? (and yeeeeeee take your time 8D Just have fun with it hehehehe)

send me 👤+ a character name for my muse’s opinion on that character

“He knows an awful lot about both hamburgers and hospitals, Eichi-san! That’s not really common among the aristocrats and nouveau riche families in Novoselic, so I asked Togami-san if other heirs to businesses also were familiar with hamburgers and hospitals, if it was a unique characteristic of the offspring of Japan’s most affluent families. In turn, he called me an idiot and condemned my taste in reading material. I don’t think that was very kind of him, because I simply wanted to learn more about this country and I also wanted to show him a feature article in Occult Magazine about a family who has created a retail empire entirely by stores focused on Halloween, costumes, and mass-produced dark artifacts and yet they’re only open for business three months out of the year. They must make enough of an income to sustain themselves as they create more new inventory to celebrate the most important season. Unfortunately, Occult Magazine was far more focused on asking them about which cursed items, that may or may not have summoned higher-ranking demons in Hell, they were planning to produce out of plastic and flashing lights to sell for inexpensive prices for consumers on the mass-market to decorate their homes with. Honestly, I’d rather find real artifacts in various shops I’m not supposed to be visiting, but that can be very time-consuming.”

“But Eichi-san seems quite nice, and he likes good chocolate. I shall endeavor to continue his education of horror films whenever he is interested and able to meet me. I wonder if his idol music group might want to do songs with an occult or horror theme? They could have spooky costumes and everything! I’m sure that would be a great success, I shall suggest it to him when we meet next!”

“Oh, it is very troublesome, Kanata-san’s predicament. You see: I believe he wishes to become one with water and yet he is unable to swim. It is good he can acquire proper hydration but with the extent of his love and hobby of water, I think it would be in his best interest to learn how to swim. Then he could visit the ocean and all of his sea friends whenever he wishes! Mostly though, his passion in life revolves entirely around water and everything related to it. I believe he shouldn’t visit anywhere that may qualify as a desert: I think he’d be quite miserable. He also loves making tiny stuffed animal dolls, but these are mostly water creatures as well.”

“Speaking of water creatures, I wonder if he’d like Creature From the Black Lagoon, The Host, or The Shape of Water? Or perhaps he’d like films that feature sharks or giant, human-eating water snakes? Godzilla may even qualify as an aquatic horror film monster, but I enjoy cheering for him in all of his films anyway.”

#more-than-a-princess answered #awesomeuchuu #(Character opinion meme) #Non-Despair AU: Hope's Peak Academy verse #(Time to apologize for Sonia yet again) #(And yes she's insinuating that Occult Magazine did a feature on the Spirit Halloween store empire) #(Togami is always tired of Sonia's shit) #(But he puts up with it because she is well-mannered and has good taste in everything except her hobbies)

[finelinevogue]

Can you expand on that topic of Harry buying that island for Y/N to conserve like you touched upon on the 73 questions thing you wrote please?

oooh yes!! i didn’t think this would be something that people would bring up but i’m excited to talk about it!! enjoy;

oli - 4, felix - 3, belle - 3 weeks

“What about this one?”

The same question Anne and Harry had been repeating for the last two hours. Neither Anne or Harry could decide on an island that they both thought you would absolutely love - an island that Harry would buy somewhere new for you to conserve and protect, for future family vacations and eventually potentially even retire to, whenever that day may come.

He had originally thought about purchasing a large plot of land along the coastline of Italy, because it had always captured a special place in Harrys heart. He loved the people, the culture, the weather, the food and he loved you when you’re bathing in the Italian sun. The boot-shaped country was the one in which you and Harry had spent your first holiday together. It was where you’d had your honeymoon. It was where, you’re pretty sure, that Oli was conceived. It held so many precious memories, so you both thought it time to make the country more permanent in your lives and purchase a house over there.

Unfortunately, due to coronavirus, Harry wasn’t able to physically go anywhere and house, or island, hunt - especially with a 3 week old baby. Belle had been born on October 2nd and she was an absolute angel - as happy as can be. Oli and Fix were currently looking after her, whilst Anne and Harry sorted through the mess of trying to organise the gift of a lifetime for you. Luckily you were out with a friend, shopping for baby clothes and a little something for yourself, for the day so Harry could complete his surprise in secret. Harry already held property in Malibu, New York, Japan, London and Manchester. He, until recently, had an apartment in San Fransisco, but he never used it and so the money that he got from selling that was going to be spent buying an island for you.

He always remembers one of the first conversations that he ever had with you and it was about how you wanted to change the world. You’d answered “I think i’d buy my own island and start conserving the planet one bit of land at a time, until I save it all!” Now obviously you were being very optimistic and silly with your dreams, but that’s all you thought they’d be - dreams. Harry was willing to make them a reality though. Okay, perhaps not world domination but he could start small and give you the thing you’d dreamt of even as a little girl.

“Mum—” Harry sighed, knowing he would reject it just like all the other ones she’d picked out for being either, too small, too big, too dangerous, too humanised. He didn’t care about price, he just wanted to get it right. He looked over to her computer, seeing what she’d found and brought up on her screen. “Shit, wait…”

This was it.

“Mhm?” Anne smiled knowingly.

“Give me details.” Harry asked her, pulling over his notepad and pen to jot down key information. He wasn’t planning on buying today, but he was planning on making inquiries so if he thought something needed negotiating then at least he’d have the information to hand.

“Okay, um,” she looked over the screen. Harry had only seen glimpses of the the island from the photos but even now he was fully invested in it, “it’s in Phuket, Thailand. Minimally developed on. 110 acres, but you know…”

“Could lessen due to climate change, yeah.” Harry noted and looked to his mum to see if she was continuing or not.

“They are allowing an income potential so you could build and make profit from it. Then again the island itself is $160 million so it’s going to be 7018 before you even start making a profit.” Anne joked, but Harry sighed. “What, love?”

“$160 million.” Harry pondered, thinking whether this is all worth it. It’s a huge investment and potential waste of money, but it was for you.

“You’re a near billionaire Harry. What else are you going to do with all your money? You could build back half of that money just from releasing a new album with no promotion. Imagine if you released a documentary or something too. You work hard, Harry, and you will continue to, so is it so wrong to treat yourself to something nice?”

“It’s not for me, though.”

“Well then, there’s the question you to need to ask yourself.” Harry looked at his mum quizzically before she responded. “Is Y/N worth it?”

Well that was a stupid question.

“Looks like Y/Ns getting her island after all.” Harry grinned so wide, feeling so happy that he was doing this for you. You deserved this so much. Yes it was a bloody huge investment and risk, if Harry was being honest with himself, but you were ridiculously worth it. So much so that he would have bought the island even if it were double that price. Harry sighed in relief and slouched back on the chair, thinking about how happy you’re going to be when you find out. Obviously there was so much paperwork and calls that needed to be made, so it was going to take some time, but to see your face at the end of this was going to be so worth it.

“Cuppa tea then?” Anne asked, slinking out of the chair and standing up.

“Yeah, go on—” The sounds of rattling keys and the front door opening broke Harry’s sentence, making him look up at his mum in panic. Time had flew by so quickly that he’d not even realised you could’ve actually been home anytime now.

Shit, you were home.

“Quick mum, help me hide all this. Wait mum, you’re going to have to sneak out the back because Y/Ns going to have too many questions otherwise!” Harry shot up from the kitchen table and started to gather bits of paper and close the laptops down. Luckily Harry was using his work laptop and Anne had brought her own so they didn’t have to worry about clearing browser history.

“What and you can’t just say you were hanging out with your ol’ mum?” Anne asked, laughing as she packed up her stuff because she knew just how demanding and stubborn her son was.

“I love you and call me when you get home safely okay?” Harry asked, chivying her out of the back door quietly and pecking her cheeks in thanks for everything she’s done for him today.

“Alright. Love you!”

Okay, act normal Harry.

“Mummy!” You heard Oli shout from the other room. You furrowed your eyebrows as you entered the house, dropping off your shoes and bags at the door before heading into the living room, where you knew you’d find the kids.

“What’s wrong?” You asked, looking around the room to see everything was in order. In fact, your heart melted at the sight of the siblings. Oli was sat upright against the sofa and had his baby sister laying on top of his stomach with hers, and Fix was sat just to the side of them - patting his sisters back rhythmically. It was a sight for sore eyes.

“Baby Belle just smiled.” Oli beamed brightly and you smiled back at him. Even though it was slightly irrelevant of him to shout for you because of this, you couldn’t help but awe over the fact the siblings were so loving for one another.

“Did she now?” You took out your phone to take a few pictures of them. “Smile again for mummy then, all of you.” You giggled as Fix pulled the cheesiest smile and Oli did his signature smile too - no teeth and raised eyebrows so high to the sky. You even caught a golden photo where Belle was slightly smiling too. “Are you okay in here still?”

You didn’t want to feel like you were abandoning your kids, because you would never, but you needed just a day to yourself to rejuvenate and help overcome the post-natal depression slowly. As much as you so very much loved them, it was hard for you sometimes. Belle was going to be sleeping for at least another hour, so you weren’t too worried about her. Oli and Fix were ever so sensible too, simply watching Teen Titans on Cartoon Network whilst they babysat their sister. You were only a shout away if something were to happen, which made you wonder where Harry was.

“Yes mummy.” Fix nodded his head whilst keeping his eyes glued to the TV.

“Everything all right in here?” Harry’s voice came from behind you, but you’r felt his presence a lot sooner before that. He stood behind you, peering into the room to check everything was in order.

God, you’d missed him today.

“Yeah, Oli tell daddy why you called me.”

“Baby Belle smiled daddy!” Oli retold the story just as animatedly as the first time, but keeping as still as he could so not to disturb his sister.

“Did she now? You must’ve made her happy then.” Harry slunk one of his hands around your waist and squeezed the pudge that had situated there. He absolutely loved the way you’d become curvier after giving birth. He said it gave him a bit extra of you to love on, to which you always cried at the words because he never failed to make you feel so beautiful.

“I try daddy.”

“I try too.” Felix added, obviously wanting his dad to know he wasn’t not helping in taking care of Belle.

“Good boys. Proud of you both.” They both smiled after their dads words, “Now you both behave and look after Baby Belle whilst I go make mummy a cup of tea okay?”

“But come back, daddy.” They both replied and you gave them a final warm smile, before making your way to the kitchen to make a warm, milky, beverage.

“Nice day?” Harry asked, following you into the kitchen. His hand was placed lowly on your back and guided you into the room.

“Lovely, thanks. Just missed you all.” You sighed and turned around to kiss him in the middle of the kitchen. Your lips moulded to his perfectly and he tasted so sweet, you probably so sour from your lemonade you’d had earlier.

“Miss you always.” Harry murmured against your lips and then pulled away, not before giving you and extra peck though.

You walked over to the kettle and switched it on, whilst Harry collected the mugs from the cupboard you were too small to reach. He picked out one with the letter H on and one with the letter of your first name on, knowing that you’d drink from each others letters as always.

“Been busy today?” You asked, dropping teabags into the cups and leaning against the counter side as you waited for the kettle to take its’ boil.

“Kinda.” He smirked to himself, trying to dodge that question and any others you might have about the day. “Glad you’re back home though.” He walked to you and cupped the back of your head lightly, guiding your face up to his.

“Thank you for being my home.” You smiled at your cheesy comment and then lead your lips to his again.

“You are a dream, my love.” Harry said, looking deep into the eyes he could fall in love with all over again.

Just as you were about to touch lips with his you heard the wails of your tiny daughter and sighed in sync. You chuckled as you flopped your head onto Harry’s chest. As much as you wanted to stay and soak up all the love he was about to give you, your children were a priority - especially a crying baby.

“Well, your dream will have to wait hun.” You patted his chest before walking out of the room, Harry watching you go before whispering ever-so-carefully under his breath.

“But yours won’t.”

#harry styles #harry styles x reader #harry styles fanfic #harry styles x y/n #harry styles fanfiction #finelinevogue #finelinevogue harry styles #harry blurb #harry oneshot #harry styles concept #ask finelinevogue #ask harry styles #anon response #anon #harry styles little moments #little moments masterlist finelinevogue #little moments oliver #little moments island #little moments finelinevogue #little moments #harry styles fluff #harry styles dad

[burnedbyshoto]

eternal love

— A simple love story between a tattoo artist and a flower shop owner. —

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pairing: todoroki shouto x reader

warnings: fluff, cursing

word count: 10,505

a/n: so, ngl... this was something that blew up in my mind at 2 am a few nights ago and after fighting others on whether I should write it, I finally did it!!! I super loved writing this, and I hope you guys will enjoy reading it!!!! a lil fluff for the soul, have fun :D also uh, this works for @bnhabookclub​‘s event so huzzah!

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Spring was a season of renewal. The world is going back to what it once was in its beautiful glory. Baby pinks and soft greens illuminated as far as the eyes could see, the morning mist unable to freeze because of the warmth in the ground. 

The gentle echoing sounds of animals, insects, and more returning to regular activity, the cold winters finally defeated. Butterflies danced in the air, birds sang in the trees, and love was in the air. 

What would be perfect with love?

Flowers.

“Good morning, y/l/n-san,” an elder greeted you.

Your cheeks were already burning with exhaustion, it was only eight in the morning, and you were tired. You wiped the back of your hand to your sweating forehead, your fatigue ignored while you smiled in greeting. “Good morning!”

She stared up at you with kind eyes, her hands holding onto her cane while she cocked her head to the side, “You seem to be quite exhausted this morning.”

There wasn’t much you could say or reply with because it was true.

“Well, we finally have a whole bunch of flowers back, and with White Day approaching us, I’m trying to make sure we’re on track!” you explain, trying to fix the multiple buckets of assorted flowers that you would have outside of your store.

You were a flower shop owner. 

Your entire life, you had lived a life where you had grown up working alongside your parents. This was a family business, and with your parents eldering years and you finally back from schooling, they had decided to take an impromptu trip to see the world, leaving you behind to take care of the store. It wasn’t something you minded; after all, they had allowed you to seek all of your own adventures in your life despite only being owners of a flower shop, but it was a lot of work for just yourself. 

You couldn’t hire anyone to work at the store, after all, while you had never grown up to live in a moment of discomfort, it was because your parents and yourself busted your backs for this store was why it survived. But now it was just you.

Winter had been fine, the flowers never had to leave the store, but this was spring.

Renewal, return, and romance suffocated the airs of Japan, and your slow winter business was already becoming a quick and demanding spring one.

Brushing your soiled hands onto the relatively clean apron you wore, you sighed at the sight of the elder looking past you. ‘Was she that old that she spaced out in public?’ you couldn’t help but think while staring at her. 

“Who’s moving into that shop there?” the elder spoke up, and you hummed, turning around to follow her extended finger. 

The shop next to your family’s flower shop had been vacant for years, the last time you remember anyone being there was in middle school. Now in your early twenties, you didn’t even realize that anyone was moving in. There were a lot of men too! How you had so apparently been ignorant to their massive hustle to move things in shocked you. Damn, maybe you were past the point of exhaustion at this point…

“I… I don’t know,” you admitted, your eyes growing when you realized just how neater the store looked. They had obviously been working on repairing the store for some time now, the store was painted in a clean and crisp color, the brick walls scrubbed and glittering like new. It was pretty aesthetic.

 “Y/l/n-san! Please help me, it’s my wife’s promotion day, and the flowers I ordered online never arrived!” a voice screamed from a distance away, and your attention turned towards a man who was sobbing while scampering his way over. 

And even with your want to just stare at the army of men moving in machines you’ve never seen in your life, you exhaled softly, turning to face the scared customer.

“Of course, follow me!”

You bid your farewells to the elder and hurried inside, ready to create an arrangement of flowers that the customer would enjoy.

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Your exhaustion of the day never seemed to end, the spring day had brought a plethora of customers to your storefront. Many couples, new and old, are surfacing to pick out fresh bouquets together. Their happiness is charming, personalities warming and smiles ever so sweet. They always asked about how you were doing, how your parents were doing — after all, this was a tight community, and they asked about the new business next door.

You couldn’t respond to that last question, your face always burning up in your embarrassment of not knowing. There was no reason for you to not know, after all, it wasn’t as if you were ever doing anything that wasn’t running the store. There was no one to rely on but yourself at this point, but still, exhaustion didn’t mean you could miss the purchase and remodeling of the store right next door to you!

Soon it was nine at night, the now empty wooden carts that were once outdoors dragged back indoors of your store. You took count of your sales today, grinning to see that you had managed to sell everything you had put out today except for a few leftover peonies. You moved back towards the door, ready to turn the Open sign to the Closed side. But you paused when you saw three men walking out of the neighboring shop. 

Your eyes focused on the three of them talking comfortably. You had no idea what they were saying, but still, you concentrate on them, curiosity getting the best of you. They talked for a while while you continued to peer through the glass on the door, the conversation must have been lively considering that one of the men was laughing so frequently you almost wished you could hear what they were saying. But alas, eventually, they embraced, and two of the three men entered the large truck that had been parked in the alleyway practically all day and left.

Frowning, you saw that the man was still standing out there. He was unmoving, looking at who knows what with his hands stuffed into his pockets. The night was dark, and the lights on the street did little to help you create what he looked like in your mind. But with a passing car, the soft light illuminating the man with the gentle headlights, you got a clear image of him.

Well, it would have been clear had your guts scrambled into a knot at the sight of his own eyes piercing into yours.

He had noticed you.

With a loud cry, you dove to the floor, your hands pressed against the cool wood while you thought about your next plan of action. Would he come and confront you? Stalking people like this wasn’t cool in the slightest, and if he wanted to walk over and ask you about it, you wouldn’t be able to lie in the slightest. You knew that about yourself. Or maybe it was just you freaking out? There was a solid chance that this was just you freaking out, right?

Your palms sweat while you pushed off the floor, your body trembling as if you were the starring role of some American horror movie. Sucking in your air, and with a hammering heart, you peeked through the glass. No one was out there.

Sighing in relief, you were grateful to believe that it was either your imagination that he stared at you, or he just didn’t care. But still, even with the exhaustion weighing heavy in your bones, you knew you owed him a greeting. Your mother would have your head when she returned if you didn’t. Plus, it helped that the pink peonies still sat in the bucket, their petals still strong and firm, beautiful and lively. 

With a nod, you walked over to them. Grabbing the peonies, you organized the delicate flowers into a full and lush looking bouquet. You hoped that he liked flowers, and wouldn’t mind the kind you gave him, primarily because you couldn’t provide him with anything else. Nevertheless, you wrapped the flowers in a tan paper and walked out, ready to give your greetings to a newcomer.

The store felt a world away while you walked towards it, and upon stepping in front of the store, it stole your breath away.

It was a tattoo shop.

Tattoos in Japan were no longer being associated with the Yakuza, years of trying to get everyone to accept this western practice by the younger generations had finally succeeded. Tattoo shops were blooming in numbers across the country, and it seemed that your area was no different. 

The outside had large windows, and without even entering the shop, you found it to be quite classy indoors. This wasn’t at all what you were expecting from a tattoo shop! You had always assumed that it was black, something similar to the gates of hell feeling. But with the sign not claiming it was closed, and the store hours showing that it was open until eleven at night, you pushed past the doors. You were glad to see that your pink peonies would make a generous splash of color in the darker colored storefront.

“Hello?” you called out, your voice ever so softly echoing against the unoccupied room. “Is anyone here?”

Cringing at what you said, you groaned. If there was no one here, would that make you a criminal? Oh god, please don’t let that be true! But if there was no one here, why would he leave with the lights on and the door unlocked?! How stupid—

“Can I help you?”

Oh fuck, you’re screwed, was all you could think at first when you turned towards the black curtained hallway. 

The man who stood there was tall, his shoulders wide, and legs firm. His arms — which were covered shoulders to wrists in tattoos, his right side containing only black inked tattoos, and his left in the most colorful ink you’d ever seen — were defined with muscle, stretching the fabric of his dark grey t-shirt. 

A line of piercings down the cartilage of his ears, identical on both sides of his head. His hair, however, was something you’ve never seen before. Half white, half red, with an undercut and detailed shavings at his temples, it was currently held back with a thin black headband that exposed his eyes to you. He was heterochromatic, you could tell immediately by the piercing blue and dark grey eye color he held. But there was nothing to disguise your reaction when you saw the tattoo — scar? — that covered his eye like an overlarge eyepatch.

There was no smile on his face, just a quirked eyebrow and his lips set in an unamused frown.

“Is that a tattoo?!” you asked your jaw to the floor. Your fingers touched the place where the red skin on his face would be on your own. 

“No,” he responded after a beat, his eyes were unbelievably annoyed. Obviously, not at all amused by your intrusion and rude words. “It’s a burn, but again, can I help you, or are you just going to stand there and stare. Not that you look the type to get tattoos, though.”

“I do have piercings, though,” you couldn’t help but defend yourself, your skin feeling like it was burning under his gaze. “But okay, yes. I mean, no! No, you can’t help me because I’m not here for your services.”

His gaze on you only seemed to intensify, a fire and ice storm erupting in his eyes while you wanted to punch yourself in the throat. Good god, be normal.

“I’m your neighbor! Well, I guess I can give you my name. Y/l/n y/n at your service,” you try, your hands thrusting out the peonies in your grasp. His gaze didn’t drop to the flowers, not even a twitch of an eye, which only coursed anxiety through your blood. “I’m the owner slash, not the owner of the flower shop! I hadn’t noticed you ever moving in except today, so I felt super bad! Um, so I just wanted to stop by and say, well, welcome! And uh, well… I just felt bad! These are peonies.”

“I know what flowers those are,” he responds, but his gaze remains unfazed.

What the hell was his problem, you thought, the hairs on the back of your neck rising as if you were being confronted by a deadly predator and not some stupid hot tattoo artist with a bad attitude.

“Oh, cool! Most people think they’re roses for whatever reason,” you laugh, looking at the flowers, your shoulder shrugging. 

“I also know they’re the only flowers you had leftover from your sales today,” he spoke again, and your face twisted when you returned to his gaze again. 

“Excuse me?”

“I was outside when you were pulling all your carts inside, and they were the only ones who weren’t sold today,” he shrugs, his arms crossing before his chest. The muscles on his arms only seem to expand at this, the ink dancing across his skin, forming new images in your mind while you feel like punching him in the jaw. “Is that what you feel about your new neighbor? I’m deserving of day-old flowers that you were unable to sell?”

“Of course not!” you exclaim, the frustration in your blood climbing while you held his stare. “I mean, are they new and super fresh flowers, no! But they haven’t even wilted yet because I know how to take care of my crap! I just finished the winter season where flower sales are always less than favored, so sorry I couldn’t toss you a thousand yen bouquet!”

There was a silence that floated across the room, his eyes staring into yours, and you could do nothing but stare back at him. Your shoulders rag with your uncontrolled angry breathing, what a fucking asshole he was! Who did he think he was?!

“Well, I guess I’m sorry to hear that you’re broke,” he sighs, finally taking strides over towards you. There’s a part of you that yells to leave the store immediately, and an even larger part of you that screams to step at him too, throw him off his trail! But in your indecisiveness, he stands before you, taking the flowers from your hands. “Todoroki Shouto.”

“That is so obviously not my name,” you roll your eyes, your arms folding across your chest. 

There’s a small huff of air from the man, his eyes looking at you full of judgment and the smallest bits of amusement. 

“Oh!” you gasp, your hands covering your mouth.

“I’m Todoroki Shouto,” he tries, his eyebrow lifting again, his lip trying perking into a smirk. “But, thanks for confirming we don’t have the same name.”

If there was a god, he would shoot you from this world at this very moment; your fists shoved into the pockets of your apron.

“Okay,” you agree, your lips pursing in your horrible, horrible attempt at masking your hurt pride. “Well, I am utterly exhausted, so I am going to leave now. Have fun with your dumb tattoo shop, Todoroki-san, I am… going to sleep.”

You turned on your heel, ready to run from this shop like the devil was hot on your heels.

“Well, see you around—” he responded, your hands pressing onto the door to leave— “Y/l/n.”

The ringing of your blood in your ears heavily outweighed his voice because you didn’t even stare at him as you continued to walk down the pathway to reenter your shop. Maybe it was a good thing you didn’t look back because had you, you would’ve seen Shouto’s fingers caressing the pink petals of the flower, and his lips moved to say one thing.

“Welcome.”

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It had been a week since you had seen Shouto. The new tattoo shop seemed positively overwhelmed by new customers, countless amount of young people filing into their appointment times, and the few days he had free hours. It, fortunately, did bring you new crowds of customers. Friends and couples alike bringing in the warm spring air into your shop while they bought flowers in commemoration of their new tattoos. 

There was no stopping this, it seemed.

“Thank you for your service, please come again,” you called out after the giggling and slightly tipsy group of girls who happened to be your last customers of the day.

Today has been a good day.

You weren’t at all exhausted, in fact, you felt relatively light on your feet still despite it being 8:56 p.m. Since it was so late at night, and with the knowledge of there hardly ever being last-second customers you started cleaning up for the night. But as you grabbed the broom, the familiar bell of the entrance of the shop rang in your ears.

Sighing, you dropped the broom and turned towards the counter, “Welcome!”

The figure at the door shocked you, it was Shouto. He stood there with his fingers hooked in the loops of his black jeans, and the white v-neck did nothing to conceal anything about his tattoos or his dumb muscles. 

“Hey!” you smiled, the smile on your face as fake as the festive flowers sitting on the counter — the ironies of working at a flower shop.

“I’m looking for recommendations,” Shouto admitted, his strides stopping him before you. “It’s one of my friends' birthdays coming soon, in a few weeks. He doesn’t like getting presents, but he likes flowers. I was hoping you could help me out here.”

Your jaw drops, words failing you seeing the way that his hair falls so elegantly between his eyes. His eyes are concentrated on the pre-arranged flower arrangements demonstrated on the table as samples and you cough.

“Uh, yes, do you know any of his favorite flowers?”

“No, he’s not really that open about his interests,” Shouto admits, his shoulders shrugging,

“When do you need the arrangement?”

“His birthday is April 20,” Shouto says, a sigh on his lips while he looks up at you. “I’m not sure if there was a time requirement to request things, especially given that you work here alone.”

“I do not work here alone!” you cry, your blood sparking in a fury. “I mean, yes, right now I do, but it’s not always like this! I’m just being a good child and letting my parents have the travels of their lifetime!”

Shouto hums, his face unconvinced, but he seems a bit perplexed, “Did I do something that first night to you?”

That takes you entirely off guard, “Excuse me?”

“Well, after the first night we officially met, you have avoided me very well.”

“I-I’m very busy with this store!”

“I walked out of the store to pick up supplies while you were speaking with your own customer. I saw you run into the door, trying to make your way back indoors.”

“You saw that?!”

“A lot of my friends say I can come off coldly at first, and I know that it’s true, and I’m trying to work on it. I, myself, was exhausted that day too because we put the entire shop together in a single day, so I let myself slip up,” Shouto admits, and you can feel your face beating in time with your embarrassed pulse. Why was this so hard? “I haven’t had the time to come over since opening, so I’m trying now.”

“So the birthday thing is a fake way to get me to talk?” you asked, your lips twitching in your losing battle to keep from smirking.

“Yes and no,” he smiles softly. It almost takes you by surprise, the smile seemed too gentle, too sweet to be on the face of someone who looked like they’d murder you in an alleyway. “I’m not that incompetent to know that I have a few weeks to give until I really need to get those plans under wraps.”

There’s a laugh that bubbles in your throat, and you sigh, unbelieving of what he was doing. 

“You’re kind of weird,” you tease, untying your apron for it was now long past the store's open hours. “But since you’re not a customer, I will be asking you to leave at once.”

“But—!”

“No exceptions! I can’t be seen playing favorites, the elders will gossip,” you firmly state, moving from behind the counter to shoo him from your store.

“I want to buy a flower then,” Shouto insists, pulling out a leatherbound wallet. 

Your eyes narrow, lucky bitch.

“What flower would you like?” you ask. Your customer service smile painted on your face. 

“Do you happen to have any ajisai’s?” Shouto asks, and you think.

You did have some!

Nodding, you pointed your finger towards the pack where small bouquets of ajisai’s sat. Shouto nodded, walking over and grabbing one and making it back.

“That’ll be seven hundred yen,” you say the moment he arrives back.

“The sign said six hundred,” Shouto points out.

“You have me seven minutes over closing time, it’s my gratuity tip,” you tease, grinning when he places seven hundred yen down. You focus back on the cash register, inputting the last sale into it and fixing up the computer before returning your attention back to Shouto, who was staring at the flowers in his hands.

“Here,” he says, thrusting the flowers into your hands and walking away before you could yell at him.

The pink-tipped flowers sat in your hands, ajisai — or hydrangeas — were small and delicate flowers, but they were stunning in your eyes. Rolling your eyes, you put the flowers next to the fake festive ones and went to clean up, the small smile on your own face irreplaceable as you cleaned up.

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In the following weeks, you and Shouto had begun a strange friendship of sorts. Your breaks during your lunch and dinner times were accompanied by Shouto, who was always over at the time. The tattoo shop was doing exceptionally well, and because of that, he even had other artists there with him, and just gained an official piercer. They were a great crew, all bright and caring people who often had you laughing on the rare occasions you visited his shop. But Shouto always had his time slot blocked out during your breaks, and he would come over with snacks and opinions for the two of you to discuss.

He was definitely an odd person. He was very open about a lot of things, almost too honest. In weeks, you knew more about him than some of your own childhood friends, and you had been involved with most of their stories! Todoroki Shouto was someone to admire though, he was brilliant, a person who never failed to make you smile with his often idiotic tendencies. 

He was smart but dumber than a rock.

But as the two of you grew comfortable, there was one thing itching at the back of your mind, the one question you always had when you saw people with tattoos. 

“What do your tattoos mean?” you couldn’t help but ask, your eyes shining while looking at his arm that was poised high to deliver the cold soba noodles into his awaiting mouth. “I mean, I know there’s a lot, but one side is colorful and bold, and the other is simple and beautiful.”

Shouto finished the noodles on his chopsticks, his lips soaked with the oils on the noodles. “Do you want to know about a particular one?” he asked, resting the chopsticks down and extending his arms for you to see. 

You leaned forward on the stool you were sitting on, observing the lines that created the art on his skin. You were fascinated by both sleeves, and he had incredible artwork on both sides of his arms. There was also some hidden motif behind each side, fire versus ice… But which one to ask about first?

“Can you just tell me why you have two sleeves that are starkly different?” you asked with a curious glint of your eyes. “I mean black ink on one side versus only color? Is there a reason, or was it just something that happened by accident?”

“Oh, there’s a reason for it,” Shouto adjusted on his chair, clearing his throat while he extended his arms. “You can tell just by looking at me, but my left side is what I’ve always associated with my dad: the red hair, blue eyes. My right side is something that I connect with my mom: the white hair, grey eyes. Colored tattoos are always more painful, they tell a very exact story. There isn’t any room for argument because it is seen in one way and one way only. You can deceive, and you can hide, but the truth is there. When I got my first tattoo, I still hated my dad with everything I had, and I wanted to cover every part of my body that I could that would erase him from me. Which is my left side. And like colored tattoos, he was painful, exact, and unchanging. My right side is black ink only because things become confusing, discerning, unknown—” his fingers trace the curving lines on his right arm— “you don’t know where it starts, where it ends, but it’s ever present. It’s comforting because it can change with how you need it to change. You can have other fills in its blanks, to piece together its story, but it has distinct intentions. It’s strong and adaptable.”

You take in his words, unable to think of anything but absorb his words. There’s a soft understanding to his tattoos. Once done in defiant, spoke stories of not only who he was, but who he is today. 

“Okay, so I know I’m just a super lame florist, but what do you think about me getting a tattoo?” you asked, your teeth biting into your lower lip with your confusion and hope. “I mean, I’ve never really wanted one before, but that was because of social stigma and all, but seeing yours and your friends all the time… I’m curious.”

Shouto’s brows raise; he doesn’t say anything; however, studying your face.

“What are you thinking about in particular?” he asked his eyebrow scrunching, his head tilting to the side. “Anything at all?”

You blew a raspberry, your hands pressing to your lap, your shoulders falling to your ears.

“I like symbolic things a lot,” you admit with a shrug. “I don’t think I could ever get a sleeve tattoo, so I want it to make sense and have meaning to me. Like… I don’t know a sakura blossom, but maybe not that? I don’t know!”

Shouto laughs softly, the sound pleasant on your ears while you thrash your legs like a child. 

“Well, I think I can help you at the very least draw you something,” he suggests, a hand offered out in a deal. “I am a tattoo artist, after all.”

“I’m not sure if I can trust you,” you playfully scoff, your arms folding across your chest while you shake your head. “I might doze off under the needle and wake up to a walking penis on my back!”

“A penis?” Shouto repeated, an award-winning smile gracing his face while you huff, your laughter failing at being masked.

“It’s what happened in middle school to people caught sleeping! Didn’t it happen to you?”

“Not at all.”

“Right, you rich kid middle schools were a breeding ground for far worse. What type of prepubescent hazing did your school do?”

“What makes you think there was hazing?”

“How could there not be!”

The doorbell chimes in the distance and the lively debate is over when you check the time, it was time to reopen it seems.

“I’ll figure out what you did back as a pubescent child,” you promise, watching as Shouto rises with you, his own alarm going off. “But would you really draw me a tattoo?”

Shouto nods, following you out to the entrance of the shop, “I will if you ask me to.”

Uncertainty sits in your stomach, you weren’t sure if it was something that you wanted right now, it had, after all, come up as a moment of trying to create conversation more than being an honest truth. But if it was something that Shouto drew for you, maybe you would.

“I’ll let you know if I want it,” you promise, your eyes closing with your warm smile. 

Shouto hums in agreement, his head nodding once. He seems to hesitate for a bit and ultimately walks over to where there was a gathering of flowers and picks out a single himawari. Your eyes narrow in silent teasing when he walks it over to the counter, his hands already reaching for his wallet.  

You accept the change, giving him back what you owed him, and was once again shocked to see him resting the flower in your hands. 

“For you,” he smiled, his shoulders shrugging.

“You’re so weird,” you wrinkle your nose, still accepting the flower from his fingers with a bright smile. “Thank you for the beautiful himawari.”

“Mm, you’re welcome,” Shouto nodded, slipping on the beanie he had removed upon entering the warm flower shop. “See ya later, y/l/n?”

You nod, waving as he left to which he graciously flipped the sign for you to read that you were once again open. “Bye, Todoroki-san!”

Himawari flowers, otherwise known as sunflowers, always filled you with warmth and love. A flower that is known to be a personal sun on this earth without ever once providing a shred of warmth. There was no denying that it was beautiful, but you shook your head, leaving it on the table in the hallway that leads to your home above the shop. You’d dry and press it once the day was over. 

Yes, you decided, that’s how it was going to go.

⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆ Three ⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆

“I always forget the wedding season is a thing! Stop looking at me like that, and please help me!”

Most people would never expect to see a community staple member who ran the flower shop to be on their hands and knees, holding onto the ankles of one of the most intimidating and newest members of the community while they begged for help. Well, to be honest, no one could even consider what you were doing to be begging. It was a full-on psycho messy bitch cry for help. 

“I said I was going to help you already, what else do you possibly need from me?” Shouto groaned, his vans clad foot trying to wiggle you loose from his ankle. “...don’t tell me.”

“Well, you know what I’m asking then!” you whine, your eyes welling with tears at Shouto’s straight face.

Your face had an array of dried petals on your face, dirt caking the undersides of your fingernails, grass, and leaves in your hair, and desperation reeking from your face. 

“My parents still aren’t back! My friends are all busy living their own lives too far away to help me properly, and you’re the only person I trust! You’re a tattoo artist, you have to have a delicate hand, right? Please help me and let me use your crew too, I promise I’ll pay!”

Shouto groans, managing to kick you free from his foot, and pulling you up to your feet so that the noisy people watching would hopefully leave. “If you want the others to help you out, you need to ask them. I’m not going to force them to do anything.”

Your eyes blow wide, excitement simmering in your cells while your hands grip onto his biceps for support, and his own hands rested on your hips. 

“Really?! You’ll let me do that?!”

Shouto breathed heavily out of his nose, took a second to recompose himself before letting that small smile appear on his face. The grateful squeal that left your lips was something that shocked him, Shouto won’t lie, but it was the hug you threw around his neck that had him stumbling. He watched in a frozen trance as you stormed into his shop, arms waving animatedly above your head while you explained your need for help to his employees. He didn’t follow you in though, choosing to instead watch you from outside the shop because it was his break right now, and he wasn’t going to be spending it inside the shop. 

You returned with a smug smirk on your face, dirt-smudged on your cheek while you nodded your head in victory. 

“Well, it looks like I have a team,” you say with a mock casualty. “I am, what the cool kids call, persuasive.”

A weird feeling floods to the tips of Shouto’s fingers at your words was this… annoyance? There was no reason for him to be annoyed that his friends would be coming over to help you. You needed the help. So what if you wouldn’t be talking to him and only him.

“Persuasive, or annoying?” Shouto tries you, and the way you focused on him in your flustered state was enough for a small chuckle to escape his lips. Before you could respond in defense to your persuasive tongue, he was already en route towards your shop. “You wasted five minutes of my break, please don’t waste the other ten.”

He wasn’t sure what made him grin more, the loud cry of “you’re an asshole, Todoroki-san,” the childish stomping coming from behind him, or the cheerful laughter that soaked your tongue at your own silly antics. But still, the grin became a soft smile when he turned to face you, the shop door in his hand while he held it for you. 

“After you.”

“Damn right, after me.”

~

“You guys are actually very good at this,” you marvel, peering over Shouto’s shoulder, watching as he and his coworkers assembled the vase of statement flowers.

Todoroki Shouto, Kaminari Denki, Shinsou Hitoshi, Midoriya Izuku, and Bakugou Katsuki.

Five equally large men, decked out in tattoos and piercings, with a punk look to them sat pinched together on tables meant to hold more than five men dainty arranging soft pinks and white-colored flowers with your princess pop music blaring in the background. It was very different to how they were in their shop, but it amused you to see them like this.

They were a group of childhood friends who apparently all had the same dream and worked together to make this tattoo shop. Shouto, being the most wealthy of them, had been the name signed on all the papers, explaining the reasons why he was the one you had first met those many nights ago. 

But with five different weddings coming up at the moment, you were more stressed about getting these things done and fast. The good thing, however, was that it seemed most of them were striving perfectionists. 

Shouto, Bakugou, Midoriya, and Shinsou were all on top of it, having only needing you to explain the arrangements once for them to get it. Kaminari took two tries, but he was also very, very social, and took his time. They were a bizarre dynamic, but it was something you enjoyed.

“Damn right we are, this shit is so fucking easy,” Bakugou responded back, shoving yet another completed arrangement your way. “And why are you just fucking staring at us? Why aren’t you helping?”

You hummed, grabbing the completed vase, and placing it with the others from this particular wedding. “Because I already met my quota, and I can’t pull out the other arrangement until you guys are done.”

“Oh, there’s another one?” Midoriya asked, handing you a completed vase.

“Well, if you guys don’t mind!” you feel your face heating while they were finishing up their final vases, Bakugou snatching some of Kaminari since he had more leftover. “I just didn’t expect you guys to haul these so quickly! And well, there’s just one left I have to do!”

“We are amazing,” Kaminari says, twirling a stem of baby’s-breath in his fingers. “I can see why you were so eager to sign us to your shop. “I make perfect commentary, Shinsou has that calming effect, Deku is sweet and kind, Shouto is obviously the closest to you, and Bakugou.”

You blinked, as did everyone else, staring at the blond who wove the baby’s-breath into the arrangement with a soft touch. Wasn’t he going to finish that sentence?

“And I what?” Bakugou growls, his ears tinging red with his annoyance.

“Hm?” Kaminari perks his eyebrows, his gaze lazily resting on the ash blond. “Oh, no, that was it!”

There was a loud screech of the chair against the floor, and Midoriya was holding back Bakugou while Kaminari screeched, hiding behind Shinsou.

“Here you go,” Shouto sighed, handing you the prior arrangement for this wedding batch. 

“Thank you,” you smile gratefully, the sounds of the raging war between Bakugou and Kaminari fading into background noise while you hold Shouto’s gaze. “For all of this too, you guys are keeping me from a countless amount of all-nighters.”

“Well, as long as they don’t wreck your shop, then I guess the payment will be okay,” Shouto sighed, not bothering to even look at how Midoriya was losing ground on keeping Bakugou back.

“As long as there isn’t any blood or teeth on the floor, I’ll give it to ya,” you grin, gesturing with your head for him to follow you.

While you and Shouto had gone to get the final wedding arrangements, Shinsou had managed to get Bakugou to calm down and sit. This arrangement was simple, and there were only twelve of them you needed to make, and before you knew it, everyone was leaving, waving as they went. Only Shouto stayed behind, helping you put away the chairs and the tables, while also setting the flowers into the freezer until they would be collected.

It was almost midnight by the time the two of you had cleaned up the shop, and Shouto leaned against the counter while you sprawled onto the floor, exhausted. 

“I think,” you mumble, exhaustion fluttering through you. “I think Imma just, sleep here.”

“I’m not going to let you do that,” Shouto sighs, walking over to you. “You’re bordering disgusting right now, and you need to shower before sleeping.”

“I’m not trying to impress anyone right now,” you point your finger at him definitely. “I think I can become one with the ground right now.”

“Yeah, that’s not happening,” Shouto decided, pulling you up to your feet. Something that made you groan and press your forehead to his chest when you got you up. “Come on, let’s go. I’ll walk you to your stairs.”

Snorting, you shake your head, pushing him away, “No, it’s okay, I was just being annoying. Besides, I need to lock up down here once you leave.”

Shouto frowns, but he doesn’t move to argue with that, because it was true. 

“I’ll see you bright and early tomorrow morning!” you insist, smiling sweetly up at the man who was wearing one of your bandanas. 

“Okay,” Shouto finally agreed, moving towards the door.

When you got to the door, ready to see him out, Shouto paused. 

He turned to you, his head tilting, and your lips parted to question him, but before any words could fall from your tongue, he raised his hand.

In his hand, he rested a pink arusutoromeria. It was most definitely a leftover from one of the arrangements statement flowers, but it sat daintily in his hand. Under the moonlight, it was almost ethereal in his hold, and you felt a small warmth build in your cheeks.

“That’s called stealing from my clients, ya know,” you tease, the exhaustion in you dying the moment you took the flower from his hand. “I’m going to have to take this out of your paycheck.”

“Don’t pay me,” Shouto insisted softly, his lips peeking into a half-smile. “I would’ve helped, even if you hadn’t asked.”

“That’s ridiculous, I wouldn’t have let you,” you shove his arm, but he went unmoved. His two-colored eyes shining in mirth while continuing to stare at you. 

“I know,” he whispers, his gaze holding yours. “Goodnight, y/l/n.”

“Goodnight, Todoroki-san.”

Shouto licked his lips, his face wincing just the smallest bit before shaking his head, “I think you can drop the formality, we’re passed that.”

You didn’t have time to react, only whispering his last name while he exited your shop into the nighttime. But you looked down at the arusutoromeria, otherwise known as the Alstroemeria Peruvian lily. The peachy and pink waxy petals smooth under your fingertip, but it made your heart warm.

Shouto really did pick the most beautiful flowers.

But why was it always for you?

⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆ Four ⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆

“The shop isn’t open today, Todoroki-chan!”

Shouto turned around to see two elders watching him while he had failed to open your shop’s doors.

“Oh, thank you,” he thanked them, bowing in greetings. “Do you know why? Y/l/n didn’t mention anything yesterday?”

“We do, actually! The park hosts the summertime festival, and they’re in charge of the floral arrangements you see going on there! Y/l/n might be there right now!”

Shouto nodded, the banners that had been advertising for the said festival had been up for the past two weeks.

“Thank you,” he said, leaving the two elders to themselves before returning to his own shop.

Today was a busy day, and since he wasn’t going to have time to spend his break with you, he decided he’d just move on to his latest client. Ignoring the questionative and gossiping look of Kaminari, he called on the girl who was here for her last touch up.

He’d go and see you when you returned. 

It was three in the morning when you were finally back at your shop. Festivals were indeed something of exhaustion. You spent six hours putting up flowers all over people's booths and stalls in order for things to look beautiful. Then when the festival began at three in the afternoon, you’d be in your own booth handing out single roses, lilies, and tulips to lovers, friends, and family who wanted to cheer others up.

Flower sales have always confused you. Flowers, after all, were almost pointless since most of them were bought without the roots and soil. You were gifting something that was on the verge of death that wouldn’t last longer than twenty-one days if you were lucky. But you couldn’t complain, on the other hand. The people’s faces that exploded with affection and love after receiving the flowers made it worth knowing that these dying presents had meaning to them.

But festivals by yourself were hell. 

Restocking the flowers, handling the money, trying to give out the flowers all by yourself had proven to be a handful. This was at the least a two-person job, and with your parents still not returning anytime soon, it was hard. You couldn’t ask anyone to help you because everyone you knew who would accept your money to work had to work until late today too.

But you had survived, as you had been for the past few months. So when you tiredly stabbed your key into the air, trying your best to get it into the lock, a sudden noise scared you.

Turning towards the sound, your tired eyes widened upon seeing Shouto walking out with a young woman next to him. She was tall, grand, and even with your tired, dried out, and blurry eyes, you could tell she was beautiful. You saw the way that politely and effortlessly giggled, her dark eyes warm and sweet while she talked to Shouto.

And Shouto, how you had entirely missed him today. But he was obviously enraptured by this woman, his facial features looking kind and sweet while they talked.

A weird feeling tightened in your stomach, what the hell was that? You blinked multiple times, your head muggy and far too foggy for your liking. This wasn’t your business, you thought, finally succeeding in opening your shop door. But with a strong pull of the wagon you had, you watched in horror as the top bins clattered to the floor.

You hauled the wagon in, desperate to get out there and get the remaining fallen items off the floor. You thought having eaten only breakfast today would have rendered you unable to be as stupidly strong as you were at that moment. But as you went to pick up the boxes, you saw Shouto approaching you, his hands shoved into his pockets.

“Oh, hey, Todoroki!” you laugh, trying to lift the boxes, but you were failing at it. “I didn’t see you all day, how are you?”

Shouto shrugged, his lower lips jutting out slightly too. 

“Good, I didn’t realize you were working for the festival, all day at that,” he admitted while moving to help you. “How’d it go.”

“Well,” you think about it, watching your friend take the boxes from your hands and holding them with ease despite your own fumbling. “I, um… it was hard.”

Shouto listened to you while you explained how you handled your booth on your own. How this was one of the busiest festivals your city hosted and how you hadn’t had time to relax since the festival began at three. He listened to you without making any input of his own, the occasional chuckle from hearing about entitled customers, or customers who thought buying a red rose for someone they were going to break up with was a bad idea. 

Cleaning up with Shouto with you was relaxing and welcoming, his presence was always one you received, and after a long day, it was sweet and soft. 

But while in his explanation as to who the lady — Yaoyorozu Momo, as he named her — was doing at his shop so late, your stomach wailed in hunger. Your face burned in embarrassment, your appetite finally remaking its appearance. 

Shouto chuckled, finding glee in your horror before nodding towards the hallway that leads to the staircase of your home. He had been up there a handful of times now, and he smirked, “I’ll make you something since we didn’t eat together today.”

“How can I trust you’re a good chef,” you ask, despite already making your way to the upper level of the shop, ready to stay up even longer with Shouto.

The next hour is spent with the two of you eating and talking. The conversation between the two of you is light and flowing smoothly. You’re on the couch with him, a blanket on your laps while you rest your head against his shoulder.

“Tell me about your tattoos,” you mumble, your exhausted body feeling warm and safe against his right side. 

“Which one?” he asked, shifting his left arm towards you so that way you could continue resting on him.

“Any,” you sigh, your fingers brushing against his wrist. “They’re all beautiful.”

So he does.

Shouto tells you about the special ones first. The fire on his left wrist, the ice on the right. They were his first tattoos, something he had associated with himself since he could remember, but a symbol of how they were both significant parts, equal in their fury, but gentle, beautiful, and healing when needed. He had dizzying patterns on his right side, something he had always acquitted to being his more assertive side. The designs were distinctive and almost dizzying to look at, but each pattern he had drawn, each twist and turn meaning something. The black ink was daunting, powerful, and reserved. He even admitted to letting his friends color in the spaces where you could still see his pale flesh, it was something that he enjoyed because even being as old as he was, the childlike entertainment never left when someone did it.

His left side was stunning though, every color in the rainbow melting and mixing on his skin. This side was artistic, bold, a creation of vibrant dreams, and they warmed you up while he explained every secret behind them. He was scary on this side if you couldn’t find the outlines of each clashing drawing, but up close, with your breath gently warming his skin while you peered at his skin, you realized just how gentle it really was. It wasn’t scary or overwhelming. It was quiet, warm, and a soft gesture to who he used to be, and who he was now.

The two of you were close friends, nothing could ever say otherwise, but as the two of you lay on the couch together, you positioned between his legs, your head laying on his chest. Sleep was a mere kiss away when you snuggled into his chest, your finger pressing against the t-shirt he wore.

“I think I’m ready… for you to draw me up a tattoo… do you think you can surprise me, though? I have no ideas…” you mumbled into his chest.

“Of course,” Shouto responded back, and before you could blink, the world turned dark, sleep consuming you in a gentle embrace. 

You weren’t sure if you imagined the feel of his soft lips on your forehead, but when you woke up the next morning, you were alone. The blanket was tucked around you, pillows resting under your head, and a flower sat on the coffee table before you.

A kaneshon.

A carnation.

Your cheeks warmed at the sight of it, knowing immediately that it was left behind by Shouto. Grabbing the flower within your fingers, you pressed the sweet-smelling flower to your nose. If he continued doing this, there was no stopping the way you felt towards him.

⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆ Five ⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆

Two weeks later.

“So, what do you think of this?”

You were sitting in Shouto’s private room where he had his tattoo appointments, you were by the wall, sitting on a stool by a desk where he was showing off his tattoo design for you. It was stunning; honestly, it had everything in the world that you could be asking for.

Simple, elegant, and sophisticated.

It fit your personality, hopes, and dreams. 

It was perfect. 

“Wow,” you barely managed to breathe, your fingers touching the sketch he had presented to you. Was feeling it okay? You hoped so.

“Do you… do you like it?” Shouto asked, his eyes trying to read your face, but failed to see how you reacted because he was behind you.

“This is amazing, Todoroki,” you shake your head, pulling back to stare at your friend with a great smile. “I mean, I know I said I wanted you to draw me one, but I wasn’t expecting you to make it so… personalized to me.”

“...you’re special to me,” Shouto admitted, his body both relaxing and tensing under your gaze. “I had to make this special for you.”

“Well, you sure did!” you agree with a laugh, your cheeks warm with your grin. “But how much will this be?”

“4,000 yen,” Shouto answered with a straight face.

You laughed in his face, remembering that all their starting prices were much more than that, “Come on, don’t be ridiculous. How much?”

“I wasn’t lying,” Shouto confirms, his gaze unwavering. “I like you a lot, and you mean a lot to me, so I’m giving you a discount.”

Your jaw drops, you’re unable to speak, words failing you with every breath. “A discount, not a free tattoo.”

“It’s not free, I’m still making you pay.”

“Yeah, and even I know that price is absurd!”

The two of you argue for some time, the money you throw down on his desk is immediately slammed back into your wallet. You feel close to victory; that is, until Shouto threatens to make your tattoo actually free. To that, your lips twist, a defeated look in your eyes while you huff.

“Fine,” you spat, turning around ready to leave the shop, given that your break was nearing its end. 

“Y/n,” he calls out suddenly, and the way that your name sounds on his lips makes you shiver. He had started to call you by your given name as of late, and to hear his warm and deep voice say your name made you wonder why you two hadn’t done this earlier. After all, the two of you were too close. 

“Shouto?”

He looks ready to speak, his tongue wetting his lips while he stares at you, unsure what to say to what to do.

“What did you think of the kaneshon?”

Two weeks later and he had finally spoken about the flower he had left behind.

“It was beautiful, I loved it,” you smiled in return, but you didn’t miss the way that his eyes seemed to cloud at those words. Obviously, those weren’t the words he wanted to hear, but what was it that he wanted? “Another flower to add to my collection.”

Shouto’s lips quirk into a smile, and you watch while he reaches behind his bench and pulls out a tsubaki. You’re silent as he walks it over to you, pressing the gentle stem into your hand.

“For you,” he whispers, and you can feel your heart hammering in your ears at how close he is. The dim lights of his room, the smell of ink, bleach, and, most importantly, Shouto sending your blood into a craze. 

Kiss him, your brain told you, but you were frozen, too busy counting the number of eyelashes he had. 

“You didn’t buy this from me, what are you doing helping my competition?” were the words that came to your mouth instead of the confession you so wanted to give.

“No,” Shouto laughs softly, and he adjusts his position almost to give you dizzying fantasies of him kissing you. “I’m growing them, actually.”

“Oh, so you’re my competition,” you tease, and Shouto sighs, his eyes rolling and nods.

“Yeah, the tattoo shop was a decoy to us becoming the best flower shop in all of Japan.”

“Sounds like I should be worried.”

“Oh, you should.”

There was no denying the fact that the distance between your bartering lips was disappearing, but the shrill beep of your alarm destroyed the space between the two of you as you stepped away. You had an appointment to get to after all.

“Um, dinner?” you ask, stumbling to the door. “Sounds good?”

Shouto nods, his lips in a small smile, “See you then.”

With the camellia clenched tightly into your hands, your blood boiling in your destroyed passions, and the sounds of the others saying goodbye while you left, you felt weird when entering your flower shop, one thought running repetitively in your mind. 

You had feelings for Shouto.

⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆ Six ⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆⋄⋆⊹⋄⋆

You twirled the akaichurippu in your fingers.

It had been two months since you worked out you had feelings for Shouto, one week since he had given you this flower, six days since he started avoiding you, and two days since your parents had finally returned home.

With the three of you now running the shop, you were able to relax a whole bunch more. Your parents had returned on a honeymoon mode, their gazes wistful and in love, finding it almost hard to readjust to the life they had left behind for a year. It had been a year since you had met Todoroki Shouto, and you were baffling in love with him. But you had done something obviously because he was avoiding you like the plague.

He hadn’t been over in six days, and they had been such lonely days without him. Of course, once your parents had come home, it had been grossly lively with their romantic sighs and glees, but it didn’t do much to qualm the Shouto sized hole in you. 

Stupid Shouto, stupid feelings, stupid everything.

Tossing the flower onto the counter, you sat up from your slumped state, watching as your dad swung your mom in a circle. Stupid parents with their stupid love, you bitterly added while puffing out your cheeks.

“Wow, what’s that look for!” your dad caught on immediately, staring at your unamused form. He trailed his gaze down to the red akaichurippu, otherwise known as the red tulip, while your mother stood up herself.

There was a shocked gasp coming from them both, and you watched as your parents approached the counter like excited children, the flower being picked up by your mother.

“Who gave you this?!” your mother asked, her eyes sparkling in glee, and your dad seemed conflicted in the same delight, and distinctive stern dad look. 

“Shouto,” you sighed, your eyes rolling.

“The one that’s ignoring you?”

“The very same!”

“That’s strange,” your dad’s eyebrows furrowed, his head tilting. “He’s just next door, and he doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon… why is he ignoring you after giving you the eternal love flower?”

You froze.

“I’m sorry, what?!”

“The red akaichurippu flower is the symbol of eternal love,” your mom explained as if it was basic knowledge. “They’re much more romantic than a boring red rose, in my opinion. You’re also a florist y/n, why don’t you know these meanings or intentions?”

“Oh my god,” you said in horror, and you stood up, racing upstairs to grab the flowers you had dried and pressed. The flowers he had given you throughout this year.

Your parents were shocked when you slammed down the book with flowers, your fingers shaking excessively.

“What do these mean,” you demand, your fingers shaking while you point at the different flowers.

“Ajisai: apologies and gratitude.”

“Himawari: adoration, loyalty, and longevity.”

“Arusutoromeria: devotion, loyalty, ‘I like you,’ friendship.”

“Pink kaneshon: affection.”

“Tsubaki: humility, discretion, and perfect love.”

Red akaichurippu: eternal love.

Red akaichurippu: eternal love.

“I have to go!” you yelled, racing out of the store, the ringing bell and following shouts of your parents doing nothing as you ran into the tattoo shop.

“Shinsou!” you called at the purple-haired man who was staffing the front desk, obviously having no scheduled appointments today. “Is Shouto—?”

“No, he’s taking his break right now,” Shinsou smirked, his eyes full of amusement, which spoke to his knowledge of what was going on. “You can go in.”

You smiled and went down the hallways of the tattoo shop that you knew intimately. You could hear the buzzing of the tattoo guns going off in Bakugou and Midoriya’s rooms, the light chatter that came with passing Kaminari’s room until you made it to Shouto’s room.

It was quiet inside, and as you opened the door to step inside, the flower in your hand feeling heavier than lead when you saw Shouto sitting at his desk, eating cold soba slowly.

“Shouto?” you called, and Shouto didn’t move, obviously ignoring you. 

“Come on, don’t ignore me,” you plead, moving towards the bench only to have him turn towards you, his eyes blank, cold, angry, and burning through you when he faced you. So maybe he wasn’t ignoring you? “Okay, uh, thank you for looking at me, but I need to explain something to you!”

“Make it quick, my break’s done in two minutes.”

A cold sweat erupts in your body, and you thrust the red tulip out.

“Eternal love,” you say quickly, your body shivering at that statement, and Shouto looks at you, then at the flower, then back at you. 

“Yeah, I knew that already, idiot.”

Your jaw drops, and the smallest bits of annoyance pricks at you. You often forgot what it was like to be under his calculating words and not being at his side, laughing at the victims of his words. 

“Okay, well, I didn’t,” you continue on, your fists dropping at your side, annoyance, fear, happiness, and love flooding through your body. “I’m a florist, I know that. I have lived my life as the child of florists, and I have taken on their trade, but one thing I never knew about was flower meanings.”

“What?”

You shake your head, your gaze dropping to the flower in your embarrassment, “I’ve never known any flower meaning outside of funeral flowers, the red rose, and spider lilies, but that’s because of the culture behind it, not necessarily because of the language of flowers. And I was mad at you today, so I had this flower out, and my parents who do know about flower language told me what this meant, and every other flower you’ve bought for me… I didn’t realize you were confessing to me using flowers… I didn’t ever expect a tattoo artist to know the meanings! Had you been a florist yourself, then maybe I would have thought to look up the meanings behind the flowers, but I just assumed it was you picking flowers out because they were pretty.”

“Flower tattoos are popular,” Shouto breathes, his eyes swimming with flashing emotions while he rises to his feet. “It’s sort of my job to know the difference. I mean… you brought over peonies that first night, and they’re a flower you use to welcome other people, so I figured you knew.”

“No,” you laugh breathlessly. “I only picked those out because they were the only flowers I had leftover from that day… I guess you would make an amazing florist after all,” you chuckle, your heart hammering in your whole being while he stepped closer to you. “I’m a blunt person, straightforward confessions are the only way to deal with me.”

“Most blunt confessions have always ended with rejection from me,” Shouto states, his fingers grabbing onto your waist. “That tends to scare people off.”

“Try it with me,” you whisper, your fingers resting on his broad shoulders, the shiver under your skin electrifying as you knew what was happening.

“I’m in love with you, y/l/n y/n,” Shouto grinned, and you didn’t give yourself a chance at responding because you slammed your lips against his.

It was a passionate kiss, one that had your back arched into him, the flower falling from your fingers and onto the floor. Heads tilted with your dancing lips, and fuck was every gentle caress of his lips, sending your mind in a whirl.

More and more, your lips slanted against each other, and there was no say as to what was going to happen next. You pulled away, a galaxy in both your eyes and a desire, a promise for more when he would meet your lips again.

“Shouto, your three o’clock is here!”

The two of you froze, and you laughed, your lips meeting his that sought after yours for the kiss was too short.

“We’ll talk later.”

#todoroki x reader #todoroki shouto x reader #bnha #bnha x reader #todoroki shoto x reader

[okinawa-division]

"I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying."

Timeline

Age 0:

Born to his mother and father in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Age 14:

Due to the debt crisis plaguing Puerto Rico, his father makes the decision to move him and his entire family to America.

They settle in an apartment in Spanish Harlem, New York.

Age 15:

His father recommends he find something to occupy his time so that he can get over leaving Puerto Rico.

He notices some children playing basketball and decides to try it out.

He finds out that he is naturally adept at it, and decides to join his school's basketball team, where he quickly stands out.

He is voted as his high school's "Most Valuable Player", boosting his popularity.

Age 17:

His school goes up against a rival school in a basketball game for the championship.

To prevent his team from winning, several players on the opposing team plan a drive-by shooting on him.

They succeed, shooting the young basketball player while he is walking home from school multiple times, shattering his right leg and lodging a bullet in his skull.

He is hospitalized and put in a coma for up to six months.

Age 18:

He awakens from his coma but is unable to play basketball anymore, due to the injuries he has received.

To make matters worse, he must repeat his final year of high school due to missing out on so many school days.

Upset at this, he drops out of school and joins a local street gang called The Str8 Breakers.

Relationships between him and his family dwindle, as a result.

Age 19:

He and his gang get back at the guys who put him in a coma, jumping them as they are walking home from school.

One of his old high school buddies tries to get him to drop out of the gang life, but the basketball player refuses to listen.

Age 20:

He and his gang are ambushed by a rival gang.

His old high school buddy is killed by accident, simply for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

This wakes the basketball player up, and he makes the decision to leave his old life behind.

He leaves behind a note for his family, as well as the money he made while in the gang.

He heads for the city's harbor and manages to earn passage by working to earn his keep.

After a day or so, the ship arrives in Okinawa, Japan.

He is introduced to an old bartender named Jelani who takes him in as his apprentice.

He recommends the boy change his name and appearance, which he does.

The bartender names him 'Rashaad', after his late son.

Age 21:

Jelani begins teaching Rashaad all he knows about bartending, which the Puerto Rican quickly takes up.

He takes the tests needed to earn his G.E.D. and passes.

A few months later, he takes the bar exam and passes, earning his bartending license.

Age 22:

For his one-year anniversary, Jelani takes Rashaad to get a tattoo to celebrate.

He chooses an eagle tattoo across his neck.

Age 25:

Jelani sadly passes away due to heart failure. He leaves Rashaad the bar.

He fixes the bar up and renames it "The Eagle's Nest".

It quickly becomes one of the most popular bars due to its atmosphere, Rashaad's drinks, and his 'No hostility' rule.

Age 27:

He becomes something of an information broker, buying and selling information to those who need it.

Age 28:

He becomes acquainted with a number of famous people, such as Luis Kōkyū, Hiroshi Sakura, Lola Takahashi, etc.

He starts learning how to play the piano and saxophone after listening to some old records Jelani left him.

Age 29:

He meets Ace Douglas, America's Ambassador to Japan, and his girlfriend, Evelyn Rose.

He allows them both to stay upstairs in his bar after finding out their hotel is being renovated.

Age 30:

Present.

He becomes the third member of the Okinawa Division rap battle team, Liberty Guild, alongside Ace Douglas and Evelyn Rose.

Schedule

12 a.m. - 5 a.m.: Working

5 a.m. - 6 a.m.: Closes and cleans up bar

6 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Asleep

12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.: Brunch

1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.: Shower and freshens up

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.: Readies bar for the evening

4 p.m. - 6 p.m.: Makes and eats dinner with Ace & Evelyn

6 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Power nap

7 p.m. - 12 a.m.: Opens up bar for business

Character Hashtags

Regular Hashtags

#Master of Mixology

#A good drink and some jazz

#I need more sleep

Trauma Hashtags

#Is scarred, physically and mentally

#Can't change or erase the past

#I drink to forget

Other Info

Hobby: Playing basketball

Weakness: Too secretive and reserved

Trauma: "My past has a firm grasp on me."

Twitter: @YoungBartender

Drinks: Yes

Smokes: Yes

Special Skill: "I can tell exactly how inebriated a person is, or can be."

Intro Quote: "Leave your worries and problems behind you."

Trauma Quote: "What will my friends think when they realize I'm not who they think I am?"

#hypmic #hypmic oc #hypnosis mic #hypnosis mic oc #hypnosis microphone #rashaad young #okinawa division #twitter #trauma #get more info

[thatsamericano]

True Colors Shining Through

Pairing/Characters: America/Romano. Smaller appearances from Germany, Veneziano, Canada, England, France, and Japan.

Ratings/Warnings: Teen, for mild cursing. Brief moment of possible homophobia from an unnamed nation, but it’s up to interpretation.

Word Count: 1647

Summary: America surprises everyone when he shows up to the world meeting in a rainbow colored business suit, including his boyfriend Romano.

A/N: Written for @hetalia-writers-monthly, for the June concrete prompt “rainbow.” Inspired by this post from @bitchapalooza. Title taken from the Cyndi Lauper song “True Colors.”

Germany was grumbling to himself as he arranged a stack of papers in preparation for the world meeting. “It would be nice if people could respect everyone else’s busy schedule and actually show up to the meeting on time.”

“Ve, don’t stress out so much, Ludo,” Feliciano said. “Almost everyone is here, except for America and whoever is supposed to be sitting next to him.”

Romano paused in the middle of his boredom-induced doodling long enough to roll his eyes at his little brother. “It’s Canada. America’s brother.”

“Right, Canada! I wonder why they haven’t showed up yet.”

Savino shrugged as if he didn’t care. “Beats me.” But he was wondering why Alfred hadn’t shown up yet. When they spoke on the phone last night, Alfred had been quite enthusiastic about some “surprise” he had planned for the meeting. He was also thrilled that he’d get to spend some time with Savino after the meeting, because the distance between them usually limited how much time they could spend together in person. Of course, Alfred being Alfred, he had expressed his excitement in the sappiest way possible and left Romano a blushing mess by the time the phone call ended.

America and Romano had only been together a few weeks, and they hadn’t gone public with their relationship yet because it was so new. They were still figuring things out about themselves and each other. Fredo knew he’d probably have to “come out” at some point, but unlike Savino, he didn’t have a label for his sexuality that made sense to him. All he knew was that he was happy with Romano and that anyone who gave him or his boyfriend crap for it would deserve some creative insults (if they were human) or a punch in the face (if they were a nation and therefore able to withstand Alfred’s punches without dying). Savino agreed strongly with Alfred on the latter point, and he didn’t mind waiting a bit until Alfred felt more comfortable telling people about them. For now, it was nice to have their relationship be just between them, without having to face the scrutiny or opinions of any other nations.

Romano idly continued doodling until the door to the conference room opened. He glanced up as Canada ducked his head into the doorway. “Sorry we’re late, eh?”

“It’s alright. Please take your seat,” Germany replied.

Canada turned his head to whisper to someone behind him, and then he walked into the room, followed closely by his brother. Romano’s eyes widened and his jaw dropped when he saw what Alfred had worn to the meeting.

It was only a business suit in the most technical sense of the term. The jacket, the trousers, and the tie were all striped with the colors of the rainbow. Or more specifically, the colors of the rainbow pride flag. Alfred’s ridiculously loud outfit contrasted with the darker and more muted suits everyone else was wearing. The only part of America’s outfit that was normal was his white shirt, his normal briefcase, his glasses, and his black patent leather shoes.

A stunned silence fell over the room, and it was only broken by a few hushed, baffled whispers. Alfred glanced over at Savino to flash him a quick smile before he sat down, but he didn’t explain himself to anyone. Apparently, he didn’t feel the need to, just like Savino didn’t feel the need to respond to his little brother poking him in the arm and asking him what was going on. Not that he would’ve been able to tell Feli what the fuck was going on, because he was just as confused as everyone else.

England, who was sitting on America’s right, was the first person to speak. “Alfred, what the bloody hell are you wearing?!”

America laughed and pulled some papers out of his briefcase. “It’s a business suit, dude. I’m pretty sure they have those in England.”

“I think what Angleterre was trying to say is that your outfit today is a bit more… how you say, flamboyant than your usual attire,” France pointed out as diplomatically as he could. “Especially for a world meeting.”

“It’s Pride Month. Being flamboyant is kind of the point, isn’t it?”

France blinked in disbelief, and the whispering from before increased into a steady, background hum. Romano heard someone from across the room scoffing and asking why America had to “show off” instead of wearing a pin like anyone else would have, and Romano turned to glare spitefully in their general direction. Sure, wearing a rainbow business suit to a world meeting was over the top in a way only Alfred would be, but America had every right to “show off.” Savino wouldn’t let anyone talk about his boyfriend like that.

Japan cleared his throat. “Alfred-san, forgive me if this is an intrusive question, but are you trying to tell us that you’re gay?”

“Don’t worry bro, it’s fine. And to answer your question, yeah. I’m not sure of my exact label, but I am into guys, or at least one guy in particular.” A broad grin stole over his face, and then Alfred looked directly at Savino and winked at him.

Savino’s face instantly turned scarlet, because Alfred’s wink and his grin made him flustered beyond all reason, damn it. America’s blatant statement, along with Romano’s reaction, naturally prompted even more gossip. The loud cry of “ha, I knew it!” from Lithuania was not particularly surprising, and neither were Spain’s or Feli’s comments on how much Savino was blushing, but they were embarrassing. Of course, true to form, Fredo verbally declared that Savino’s blushing was the most adorable thing he’d ever seen, which was flattering, but the kind of compliment he was much more accustomed to hearing in private, not in front of literally the entire world. Romano’s face was so warm that he probably could have fried an egg on it.

Savino glared weakly at his boyfriend. “You’re only making it worse, asshole.”

“I’m only being honest, babe,” Alfred said plainly, like it was no big deal. “Everyone here can see how cute and handsome you are.”

Savino couldn’t help it. With Alfred saying sappy things like that and looking at him like he hung the moon, he cracked a smile. Alfred grinned back at him. They continued staring into each other’s eyes as Germany stood up from his chair and attempted to get the meeting back under control.

“Unless anyone has any further surprise announcements, I’m going to begin my presentation.”

America quit staring at him for about half a second to acknowledge what Germany had said. “I think we’re good, dude.”

Once Germany started talking, Romano did his best to pay attention. He took a few notes, idly sketched in his notebook, and glanced up to roll his eyes fondly whenever he felt America gazing at him like the obvious dork he was.

Eventually, it was time for the scheduled lunch break. As Romano was packing up his things, he overheard Poland telling Hungary that he was totally going to wear a pink sequined dress to the next world meeting, because America shouldn’t be the only one getting to wear whatever they wanted. Hungary laughed and said he had a point.

Alfred started to come around the other side of the table, and Feli nudged his shoulder and smirked. “I’ll have lunch with Germany today. That way you and your ragazzo can have some alone time.”

Savino could only stammer out a couple syllables before his little brother was rushing off to catch up with Germany. As Feli was latching onto the macho potato’s arm, Alfred slipped into the space beside him. “Hey, Vinny.”

“Hey, caro.” He glanced up and down Alfred’s body, then smirked as he looked up into his eyes. “Interesting outfit.”

Alfred blushed and smiled, shyer than he would have in front of anyone else. “You like it? I stumbled across it online when I was looking for something else, and it called out to me, like the stuff Billy Mays used to sell in infomercials. I had to buy it.”

Savino snorted. “It is very… you. I wouldn’t have expected to see it at a world meeting, though.”

Alfred fidgeted with the hem of his jacket sleeve and glanced away with a worried look on his face. “It was okay that I told everyone about us today, right? Before we went in, Mattie said I probably should’ve consulted with you beforehand, but I’ve just been so happy and proud to be with you, and I didn’t want to have to hide it anymore. I didn’t even think to—”

Savino gently took hold of his hand, which stopped his boyfriend’s nervous babbling. “It’s okay. I’m glad you felt comfortable enough to come out today. And knowing you, I figured that loud, public declarations would be part of the deal sooner or later.”

Alfred chuckled and laced their fingers together. His smile was equal parts relieved and adoring. “Okay, cool. Glad I didn’t mess that up too badly. Are you free for lunch?”

Savino huffed out a laugh. “Feli just ditched me for the potato bastard so I could have ‘alone time’ with you.”

Alfred giggled. “That’s really nice of him. I feel like I owe your brother a million dollars.”

They continued chatting back and forth, and Romano wasn’t sure if it was Alfred’s gleeful, lovestruck tone, his sweet words, or the fact that they were holding hands, but he felt warm and content as they went into the elevator and as they left the building and walked down the sidewalk together. He held Alfred’s hand until they took a table at the restaurant, because he was just as proud to be in this relationship as Alfred was, even if he was more inclined to show it with body language than rainbow colored business suits.

#hetalia #hetaliawritersmonthly #romerica #hws america #hws romano #hws south italy #hws germany #hws veneziano #hws north italy #hws canada #hws england #hws france #hws japan #aph america #aph romano #aph south italy #aph germany #aph veneziano #aph north italy #aph canada #aph england #aph france #aph japan #hetalia fanfic #hetalia fanfiction #hws fanfic #hws fanfiction #aph fanfic #aph fanfiction #tw possible homophobia

[argumentl]

The Freedom of Expression Ep 52 - Kami's avatar plan & Momotaro Dentetsu!? The aim behind the huge spread of conspiracy theories, and related Youtube videos.

K: Hi, this is Dir en grey's Kaoru with this week's episode of The Freedom of Expression.  Joe san, Tasai san, welcome.

K: (To Tasai) You're wearing that.

T: I really like this, I wear it to all sorts of places.

K: Really?

T: Yes. Girls tell me I'm cool when I wear it, it made me feel kinda cocky. Haha

J: You should be!

K: When I saw this (on Tasai) I didn't realise what it was, I didn't remember it. Haha, like was this really ours?

T: When I first heard about this, I heard that Kaoru had made it with great detail, haha.

K: Well, speaking of Dir en grey, we've decided to release a new single.

*applause*

K: At this point it will be in Spring.

J: I see. I can't wait for it.

K: The song will be called 'Oboro'

J: How are you progressing with it?

K: Uh, at the moment we are just starting the mixing..we are at the start of February now.

J: So, like, you can see the finish line already?

K: Hm, well....yeh. We've all finished our parts.

J: Ah, I see. The members' performances are all over.

T: Uh, at the end of year announcement, the talk about the avatars, with Kaoru playing really high up, haha.

Kami: Um...um, are you gonna make a music video for it?

K: Eh?

Kami: You will make a music video, right?

J: Oh, a music video?

Kami: Yeah. Will you make it as an avatar video?

K: Well..we havn't really thought about it yet.

Kami: I am really interested in that, I really liked that idea.

J, T: Ehhh.

K: Thank you.

Kami: I kinda want you to make another one.

K: Oh, for the new song too?

Kami: Yeah, I really want you to make one for the new song.

T: Ah, but you said you havn't thought about that this time?

K: Not at this point, no.

Kami: Why don't you let me do it?

J: Haha

K: Eh? Let Kami make it?

J: Kami, do you have any talent for that type of thing?

Kami: Well, I mean, I reckon I could do it.

T: He reckons he could?

Kami: In my own godly way...I'd like to have a go.

J, T: Ohhh.

Kami: Thats right.

K: Will it work?

T: Haha

J: Yeh, because don't they usually do this type of thing in the workshop?

K: This is a brand new development, right?

T: Yeh, Im pretty surprised too.

Kami: I understand that, but I do think it would be good...like to have it reviewed in the workshop.

T: Ahh, like he wants to raise his reputation.

J: Yeh, but its quite ???*1. Kami, do you have confidence?

Kami:Yes, I do.

J, T: Ohh.

T: He's amazing.

J: Kaoru, he said he's confident?

Kami: Um, it might turn out kinda fun style though.

T: Fun style?

K: Fun style...we don't really have that image though.

J: Right.

K: Well...I'll have to ask the other members.

T, J: Yeh.

Kami: Kaoru, you are the leader, so there's no need to do that.

K: No no no. Its precisely because Im the leader that I have to ask.

J: Haha, yeh, just telling them out of the blue that the god from your own youtube channel will be making an avatar video..they would say thats not a leader!

Kami: No, but say something skillful.

K: Well, I'll just ask them.

T: I'm sorry to say this Kaoru, but I kinda wanna see this happen.

J: Really?!

Kami: A video produced by Kami..what do you think, Joe?

J: Well, it could be scary...

T: Haha.

J: Its not really about something incredible happening, its more like what is gonna come out of the limits of this god.

K: I personally don't have any problem with it, but as for Dir en grey, thats a group decision.

J: Well, yes.

K: It depends on that.

J: So, we'll hand the issue over to you for now to get the other members' approval.

K: Yeh.

Kami: Im being quite brave here, but I also have another request. I've had another idea.

J: You are being brash, aren't you?!

T: He is asking a lot today.

Kami: I thought it might liven up the show a bit.

J: Ahh, ok, go ahead...

Kami: Should we all play Momotaro Dentetsu together?

J, K, T: Momotetsu??

T: Ah, thats a good idea, I'm all for that!

Kami: Lets do it.

T: I really like Momotetsu..

K: Everyone's playing it recently, aren't they?

T: Yeah, its really popular at the moment.

J: I'm sorry, I reacted when he said the name..but I actually don't know what Momotetsu is...

T: Well, its a board game..

K: A board game style video game.

J: Oh right. What is 'tetsu'...like trains?

K: Yes.

T: Do you know Monopoly?

J: Yes, I know that.

T: Its like a train version of Monopoly.

J: Ahh, ok. Well, lets do it! Thats ok. How would we do it?

K: Well, we can think about that later.

J: Yes, ok..but that means its a posibility?

K: Will Kami play too?

Kami: Oh, yes! Thank you!

J: He sounds so happy, haha.

T: Kami, how will you join in with the game?

Kami:.....Yeh, how will I?

J: Yes, you tell us.

Kami:....how would I? I'd have to get some one to do it for me.

K, T: Haha

J: Like a representative of Kami?

Kami: Yeah.

T: Another person that we've never met will come, right? haha. Kami won't have met them, it will be a total stranger.

J: Dubious, right?

K: Ahh, but I havn't played Momotetsu in ages.

T: Ah, in the newest version you get stronger privileges, and its like you can make deliveries freely*2

J: So we are looking towards actually doing this, for now.

K: Well, yeah, its ok. We've got the start of two new plans.

J: Yep, one is a Kami produced avatar video for the new single.

K: Its not really 'produced by' though, more like 'made by'.

T: Making it on his own

J: Yeah, he's making it on his own for us.

K: Its more reassuring that way.

J: Haha, like, not in a collaboration?

K: I approve it of that.

Kami: Im making it on my own, but I don't have any money, so I want to get the money for it from you.

K: No, I can't do that.

J, T: Hahaha

J: He said he wanted to do it himself. He asked you if he could do it! If you want to do it yourself, you have to deal with the cost yourself.

K: This show has zero production cost anyway.

J: Haha, is that right? Thats tough.

T: We finally got a decent mic stand.

K: Yeah, but its kinda been reformed.

J: The mic stand fell over before didn't it? 

K: ???*3

Kami: I don't have any money!

K: Well, it doesn't have to be that high quality.

J: Yeah.

K: He doesn't need a camera though.

J: No. So there are two conditions as for making an avatar vid: one is that Kaoru has to get the permission from the other members, and the other is that Kami has to cover the production costs himself.

*On screen note: Permission was gained from all members in the following days*)

T: Yeah. ????*4, like to show he's made it all himself.

K: Yeh, because if we paid for it, we'd have to approve the whole thing.

J: Oh, yeh, like an official check?

K: Yeah.

J: That would be a bit different. What do you think Kami?

Kami: If I make it, can I sell it?

T: Haha, 'If I make it can I sell it'??

K: No, you cannot. That is that is the biggest rule.

Kami: Oh, please let me sell it!!!

K: That totally depends on how good it is.

J: Right, you might allow it if it was outstanding.

T: Haha

K: Ok, Joe, lets look at today's topic.

J: Yes, 'A monthly income of ¥1million. Chaging tune during game commentary. What is the aim of the massive spread of conspiracy theories, and related Youtube videos?' Well, there is a lot of news surrounding the American Presidential election last year, but a huge amount of conspiracy theories and fake information is spreading even amongst Trump supporters in Japan. Within this are big ones like, 'Trump will unleash martial law, and mass arrests of traitors will begin', 'Nancy Pelosi has been arrested', etc etc. There are even theories that are circulating only in Japan, and which are spreading through Youtube videos and round up sites. Within those, there is one user who brings up such material in the middle of game commentary videos, and can make up to ¥1million per month. The posibility that they are doing it for the advertising revenue cannot be denied. Well, its like, is it ok to spread lies in return for money?... this news questions the 'freedom of expression'.

K: Well, conspiracy theories have been around for ages, havn't they?

J: They always have, yes.

K: But since covid started...there have been...like, a load of theories coming up about it, right?

J: Yeah.

K: I kinda get the sense that a lot of conspiracy  theories about covid have grown to be seen as almost the truth.

T, J: I see.

K: You don't even know whats a conspiracy theory or whats real news now.

J: Well, yeah. In relation to covid, I also don't know what is actually correct. In some sense, there are certain voices that are louder than others, and if you mix in these conspiracy theories, you get this kind of....well, like with these protests in relation to the American election, or even without that, these theories do spread.

K: You kind of watch them in a funny sense to start, but then it feels like they gradually loose power.

J, T: Yeh.

K: There are people who will end up believing them though.

Kami: Um, that game commentator who is talking about conspiracy theories in order to make a profit, I don't like that. I want him to try harder, like, don't be influenced by money.

T: No no no. Kami has been talking about money a lot, haha

J: Yeh, like, 'Can I sell it?' He's only telling other people not to be influenced by money.

Kami: Yeah, gods are influenced by money...gods are. I kinda understand how this guy feels. I can't help it.

J: You can't help it?

Kami: Yep.

J: You can't help it for money?

Kami: Yeah, I take it back, its ok to be influenced by money.

J, K, T: Hahaha

J: Kami, you're weak!

T: That was a quick turnaround.

J: I was pretty shocked that this guy can make ¥1million per month though.

K: Well, if his view count grows...

J: Yeah. 

K: Those numbers would be impossible for this show.

J: Haha, yeah, everyone please help us out with that. Even if we aimed to make ¥1million, conspiracy theories take up a lot of time, right?

T: Yeh, but how about we feature some conspiracy theories?

J: If we will get like this guy, right?

Kami: Ah, lets go with some conspiracy theories!

J, T: Haha

K: There are probably people out there really putting thought into making new conspiracy theories, aren't there?

J, T: Yeah.

K: It sounds pretty difficult. Like, what type of conspiracies would fly?

J, T: Right.

J: ???*5

K: Like Kami's?

J: Kami's conspiracy theories, haha. But it is difficult. Hm, eventually we'll have a 'Freedom of Expression conspiracy theories edition'.

T: Well, lets do more of this kind of stuff.

J: Tokyo Sports loves this kind of thing, doesn't it?

T: Yeah.

J: Do your sales go up when you feature this stuff?

T: Well, not really with conspiracy theories, but we sell at lot when we write about UFOs and stuff. People are really curious about things that are 'unknown'. They really are.

J: Hm.

K: Ok, on that note, lets finish here. Thank you very much.

*1,3,4,5 Couldn't catch/figure out

*2 I've never played Momotetsu so Im not sure if im understanding the explanation right. 

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[tact-and-impulse]

Shinkane Week 2021 Day 1

For this prompt of ‘roommates’, it’s a sequel to Propriety! Let’s see where Miss Tsunemori and her faithful former chauffeur have ended up, now that they’re on the run…

Runaways

“I’m so sorry, but we only have one room available.”

He clenched his jaw. Gino would have his hide if he found out, but it seemed there was no other choice. “We’ll take it.”

Beside him, Miss Tsunemori was feigning interest in the worn floorboards. The innkeeper handed over the key and directed them to the room. It was terribly cramped, with only one futon. Extra blankets would be brought for the other to make do.

As soon as the innkeeper left, he insisted. “You can take the bed. I’m used to sleeping on the floor.”

“But you must be tired too. You drove the entire time.”

He did, because it was the middle of the night and she didn’t know the roads. He wasn’t even entirely confident they were safe yet. He had driven until the fuel ran out, and then decided to ditch their vehicle on the side of the road. It had been a harrowing twenty-four hours, and her entire life had been pulled out from underneath her. “Don’t worry about it. Besides, I’m the servant.”

“Not anymore.”

That was true and he abruptly turned away. “Get some sleep. We’ll think better if we sleep.”

His blankets were then delivered, and afterwards, neither of them spoke. As he attempted to find a comfortable position, he couldn’t help hearing her light breathing and knew she was just as restless.

***

“I’d like to see the ocean.” She had said, when he asked for a destination.

So, here they were, in a harbor town. They had watched the sun rise over the glittering water, and Miss Tsunemori had darted to the shoreline. He followed her prints, hiding them under his, and joined her at the breaking surf. She was standing just shy of the approaching foam.

“See any monsters?”

“Kougami-san!” She admonished but laughed. She could laugh when they were alone, without worry that someone would overhear and realize that it wasn’t two young men staying in the last room. “No, I haven’t.” She bent down, untying her shoes and removing her socks. After placing them on higher ground, she dipped her toes in. Just as she did, she made a startled sound and retreated. 

He took her arm, steadying her. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, I didn’t expect it would still be cold.” She pressed her feet into the darkened sand. “I suppose that makes sense, it’s early.”

Letting go, he copied her, tossing his boots closer to her belongings. He stepped into a wave, the ocean surging around his ankles. “It’s actually not bad. Once you’re in it, you’ll warm up.”

She splashed towards him. “If you say so…”

For a few minutes, they didn’t move. He crossed his arms, breathing deeply of the salty air. “So…where to?”

“I’m not sure.” A frown had settled upon her face. The reality was kicking in, that there was no plan other than running as fast and far as they could.

“We need to decide. Every minute we stall, we risk getting caught.”

“You’d be arrested for kidnapping me.” She had already reached that conclusion, and despite that bleak possibility, he felt a twinge of pride. “And I don’t want that to happen.”

“Maybe, you’d see me again when I’d leave jail in twelve years.”

“Please don’t joke about something like that.”

He glanced at her forlorn expression, her downturned lips. “Sorry.”

A breeze swept through, and she held on to her hat. “If I can keep up this disguise, I wonder if I can study law.” She mused.

“Maybe.” He conceded. His skin itching with the need to move, he walked away from the ocean and grabbed his boots. She followed suit, and they slowly crossed the beach.

“Kougami-san?”

“Yes?”

“How do we get rid of the sand?”

***

Her question also brought up the issue of hygiene, so they concocted an excuse that “Akio” had a skin condition and couldn’t go to the public bathhouses, unlike “Satoru”. The story bought them a large basin of water and coarse soap. Miss Tsunemori was eager to use them, and to secure her privacy in this small room, he made a suggestion in case the innkeeper knocked.

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, go ahead. Don’t worry, I won’t peek.” He held up the sheet, turning his head to the side. “Let me know when you’re done.”

“Alright, thank you.” There was rustling, as she removed her clothes. He tried to ignore the soft sounds and the liquid sloshing as she dipped below the surface.

He clenched the cotton, searching for a topic of conversation. “We can keep to the coastline, and there’s the option of leaving Japan.”

“I’m not sure if I want to, or even if you do.”

“Why not? There’s jungle out there, hidden temples.”

“Hmm. But you wanted to go to the mountains.” So, she remembered.

“Yeah. I had a teacher once, who said he wanted to live in the shadow of Mount Fuji. To us kids who only knew the rowhouses, his idea of a peaceful life was something we couldn’t really imagine.”

He could hear her smile in her reply. “But you liked it.”

That phrase, accompanied with the fact that she was naked in a tub just below him, caused him to waver. He renewed his grip on the sheet, his reply harsher than intended. “Well, runaways never have peace. Do you want to go home?”

Long moments passed, before she quietly replied. “I think we’re past that point.”

It wasn’t a denial. Before he could say as much, she announced that she was finished. He lifted the cover higher, while she dressed. It didn’t take long before she popped up on the other side, her face flushed.

“Thank you so much.” Her smaller fingers reached up, pulling the cloth barrier down. This close, he could smell the soap, and underneath, the lingering traces of sweet citrus that hadn’t been entirely removed. “Your arms must be sore. Do you want me to rub them?”

They did ache, but her offer was far too tempting for his fraying self-control. “That won’t be necessary. I’m going to the public baths. Keep the pistol, you know how to use it.” He was about to take the basin with him, but she protested.

“I can empty it, don’t worry.”

“…Thanks.” He couldn’t resist ruffling her short damp hair. His hand tingling, he hurried out of the building and down the road.

He was one of the few patrons at the time, and he was grateful. As he quickly scrubbed off the grime, he had an intrusive thought that she would be gone when he returned to the inn. It wouldn’t be surprising; being a runaway wasn’t nearly so glamorous, now that the initial adrenaline had faded.

However, when he knocked on the door, her lowered voice answered. Upon his entry, she sat up in her futon, clearly relieved. “Welcome back.”

And he smiled. “I’m back.”

***

They kept moving, never staying in a town longer than a few days. Kougami maintained a close eye on their surroundings, but he didn’t spot anyone tailing them. If Tougane was still persistent, he might have lost their trail. They traveled inland, running errands for money; he usually did manual labor, while she was a good scribe.

In one of the larger markets, there was a stall selling books. Her interest couldn’t be concealed, and he encouraged her to peruse, while he bought the remainder of their supplies. She had found one in particular and her gaze was bright as she skimmed through the book.

“Is it about law?” He asked over her shoulder.

“History, actually. But it’s well-written.”

He approached the vendor. “How much?” They spent a minute bargaining, but he was going to pay regardless.

As they headed to their lodgings, she humbly said. “Kougami-san, you didn’t have to.”

“Hey, it’s a gift. That’s what roommates do.” He smacked the spot between her shoulder blades, and she startled. For a moment, he wondered if that was too forward, but she didn’t mention it.

“Well, then I need to return the favor. Let me know if you really want anything.”

There was, but it wasn’t the time, place, or situation to ask for it. He didn’t speak again, trying not to think of a sweltering night that seemed like years ago.

In the evenings, he pored over their maps, marking the places they had left. It was still warm, and he left the window open. The sound of cicadas also distracted him from the fact that he was really itching for a smoke.

Then, there was a slight tap against his upper arm. Miss Tsunemori had set her book aside, holding out an open box of rolled papers, pungent and familiar.

“Here. I bought you a new pack, since you ran out.”

“You noticed.” It was the same brand he liked too. Touched, he accepted the cigarettes. He picked one, lighting it. Noticing that she was watching, he asked. “Want to try one?”

“No, thank you. I’ve gotten used to the smell though. Now, it reminds me of you.”

“Does it?” He regarded her, the smoke weaving around them. She blushed but didn’t look away.

At that moment, a cicada flew into the room. She clamped a hand over her mouth to stop from screaming, and he bit off a curse as he extinguished the cigarette in the ash tray, before grabbing his boot to kill the invader. A few good hits, and he tossed the body out before she closed the window. Damn bugs.

Shocked laughter bubbled from her lips. “That was…scary.”

“I wasn’t expecting that.” But he began to laugh too. It was the first time, since they’d driven away from Tokyo.

After recovering, it was quiet again. Even the cicadas must have tired out. For a second, they stared at each other.

“Well…it’s late.” She slowly said, wrapping up in her blankets. “Good night.”

In every room, they’d been sleeping on opposite ends, but this one was the smallest so far. If he could, he could roll over and close that distance. But he only answered. “Night.”

***

The final summer days gave way to autumn, and the mountains were abundant with color. Unfortunately, the scenery was the only enjoyable thing. Influenza was spreading, from beyond the borders. The numbers of infected and dead were rising fast. It was recommended to cover their faces with muslin layers, and the masks also served in laying low. However, it wasn’t enough, because he fell asleep one night with a dry throat and woke to feeling cold under his blankets.

She took over, ignoring his attempts to convince her that he should be left behind. She kept their brazier lit, measured his medicine, and even wiped him above the waist. He felt terrible and weak, but he had to rely on her. From morning to night, she looked after him, her brows drawn together in perpetual concern. He wasn’t getting better, not as quickly as he thought, and he knew it.

One morning, she wasn’t there when he opened his eyes, and he made an effort to sit up. The room spinning, he swayed, and his hand landed on the note she had left. She was buying more tea for him, but she would be back soon. And just like that, he was reassured. He didn’t stir again until he sensed her presence.

“I’m back. I’ve brought someone who said he could help. Can you hear me, Kougami-san?” She squeezed his fingers.

“Mm.” He grasped back, comforted by her touch.

“Kougami? Is that you?” The voice was familiar, and he thought he was dreaming as he looked up into the surprised, bespectacled eyes of the man who held weekly lessons for the rowhouse children.

“Saiga-sensei…please help.” Then, he spiraled into delirium.

***

“Young lady, what is he to you?”

“He’s-”

***

Just as he was beginning to crest over the worst, her temperature spiked. He blamed himself. Staying in one room together this whole time, breathing the same air. She deteriorated fast, struggling with each inhale. Her skin was burning, despite the growing chilliness.

He didn’t leave her bedside, giving her water and broth and the little medicine he was able to buy. Saiga said he had seen other young women survive this, but his expression was serious. Kougami was afraid. Afraid that she was going to die, and he couldn’t do anything about it.

In her fever dreams, she called for her parents. Her grandmother. Her friends. And for him. “Kougami-san! Don’t go!” For whatever reason he was, it brought her to tears, because they spilled down her face, onto her sweat-soaked pillow.

“I’m here.” He hushed her, pressing his hand to her forehead. “I’m here, Akane. I won’t leave you.”

He wouldn’t, because she believed in him. In the silent spaces between her coughing, her words haunted him.

He’s the person I trust most with my life.

***

“So, you ran away together?” Saiga summarized, as the two of them sat on the back steps of his house. “I admit, I’m not sure what to make of your decision. You must have had your difficulties.”

“It wasn’t easy, but it had its kinder moments.” Footprints in the sand, pages in the candlelight. A sheet between them.

His old teacher smiled. “That’s how life is. It was lucky that I was passing through. I was sick earlier this year, so I’ve been helping out. Kougami, don’t underestimate this flu.”

“It’s going to get worse, isn’t it? Winter isn’t even here yet.”

“You assume correctly. But at the very least, you’re both alive. I’m glad.” Miss Tsunemori’s fever had finally broken, though she was still weak. Kougami was better, but not by much. He still couldn’t bring himself to light a cigarette yet.

“Me too.”

“Whatever you decide next will be crucial. Snowy roads are harder to traverse, and with the infection rates, I’d be surprised if any small town will welcome outsiders. As long as you hold on to logic and clarity, you’ll find a solution.”

“I won’t forget. Thank you.”

With that, his teacher excused himself to obtain groceries, and Kougami went inside. She was reading the newspaper, looking lost.

“Miss Tsunemori?”

“Oh, Kougami-san. Um, sorry.” She hastily wiped at her eyes. “All the news of cases and deaths made me think of Obaa-chan. If we were this ill, then what about her? Masaoka-san too, and everyone else.”

“I know. Even Gino is only human. But if we go back…”

“We’re immune though. We can offer to nurse the sick, in exchange for clemency. We can negotiate.”

“And Tougane?”

“I can always use the pandemic as an excuse for delaying a wedding.”

“I don’t like the idea of you marrying him.” Saying that aloud felt like drawing to the edge of a precipice, that he knew he couldn’t turn back from.

‘I don’t either. But I’ll find another way.” Of course, she would say that. And he had faith in her.

He smiled bitterly. “Alright. Let’s return to Tokyo.”

#shinkaneweek #shinkane #psycho pass #i hit a block and then thought 'i wonder what else happened in 1918' #*googles* #oh #uhhhhh #that's appropriate

[final-servamp-banter]

White Day Event: Youtarou

He’s cute :3 And has a lot of choice branches. And a long route.

Youtarou: Ah, hello? [Your name]?

Youtarou: Sorry for calling you so suddenly~ Do you have time tomorrow?

Youtarou: Tomorrow is White Day, isn’t it? Since I got Valentine’s Chocolate from you, I was wondering if you’d like to have some afternoon tea with me as a thank-you gift.

Youtarou: …… You have time? That’s great~! I’ll make a reservation at the restaurant!

Youtarou: I’m planning to pick a casual restaurant, so there’s no special dress code. Don’t worry about it and just come in your everyday clothes.

Youtarou: Ah, right! If possible… It might be best if you come without eating lunch first! If you have to eat it, make it a light lunch!

Youtarou: All right, see you tomorrow!

(He hangs up)

You: (… I wonder if I’ll be in London again when I wake up…)

~ 3/14 ~

Youtarou: [Your name], thanks for spending some time with me today! I’m glad we get to have tea together.

Youtarou: This is a casual restaurant, so you don’t have to get so worked up. But the tea and the snacks are both delicious! I come here with Gear from time to time!

Youtarou: You can get as many refills on sandwiches and scones as you want. That’s why I told you to only have a light lunch~

Youtarou: So, do you want some more?

You: (Well…)

Player Choices [Note: There’s a lot of splitting. I’ll mark when all the routes here merge into one, and I hope I managed to make it obvious which option belongs where]:

1. I’d like a scone

2. I’d like a sandwich

3. I’m fine for now

Option 1:

Youtarou: A scone, huh. I’ll take one, too.

Youtarou: … Ah, [Your name]. There’s some cream stuck to the corner of your mouth.

You: (Eh? There’s cream… How embarrassing…)

Player Choices:

1-1. Wipe the right side

1-2. Wipe the left side

[Both options lead to the same dialog]

Youtarou: … Ah, the other one, the other. I’ll wipe it off. Sorry, hold still…

Youtarou: … See, here.

Youtarou: All right, done. Scones are delicious if you eat them with a lot of clotted cream and jam, after all! So it happens that you’d get some on your face!

Youtarou: … Are you okay? You tensed up.

You: (… He wiped it off for me…)

Player Choices:

1-1. … I-I’m fine

1-2. … Th-Thank you

[Both options lead to the same dialog]

Youtarou: ……… Ah!! I-I’m sorry!! Of course you’d get startled if someone suddenly touches your mouth, right?! Ahhh, sorry! I-I Just…!

Youtarou: Ah, I-I’ll get some refills……! ……

You: (Even Youtarou-san…)

Player Choices:

1-1. You’re blushing…

1-2. You tensed up…

Option 1-1:

Youtarou: … D-Don’t look at me that much… I got embarrassed, too…

Youtarou: Ah, d-did you try these snacks? Th-They’re delicious!

Option 1-2:

Youtarou: Ah, d-did you try these snacks? Th-They’re delicious!

[Scone option merges with the rest after this]

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

Option 2 (“I’d like a sandwich”):

Youtarou: A sandwich? Which one, the ham sandwich, egg sandwich, or salmon sandwich?

You: (Uhm…)

Player Choices:

2-1. Ham

2-2. Egg

2-3. Salmon

Option 2-1:

Youtarou: The ham one? I’ll get one, too. They’re delicious, so I always end up eating too much.

Youtarou: Gear keeps getting refills for the ham sandwiches for ages. He may not look like it, but he eats a lot.

Youtarou: He eats his meal, and since sweets are his favorite food, he also eats a lot of dessert. If you take your eyes off him, he’ll finish eating in an instant. It’s downright funny.

Option 2-2:

Youtarou: The egg sandwich? I’ll take one, too.

Youtarou: I make egg sandwiches a lot, too~ On nice days, I’ll take one for lunch and go out.

Youtarou: There’s only few sunny days in London, but sometimes you can enjoy a deep blue sky. I’d love to go out with you next time that happens~

Option 2-3:

Youtarou: The salmon sandwich? I’ll go for that one, too.

Youtarou: Ah, did I tell you? I planned tonight’s main to be fish, too! The way it’s prepared is completely different, though.

[Sandwich option merges with the rest after this]

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

Option 3 (“I’m fine for now”):

Youtarou: Really? All right, then let’s eat these sweets. This one might be caramel? And this is strawberry…

Youtarou: Mh! This strawberry macaron is delicious! You try it, too! I took a bite of it though!

You: (H-He’s holding it out to me…)

Player Choices:

3-1. Open your mouth

3-2. Hesitate

Option 3-1:

Youtarou: All right, say “ahh”.

Youtarou: So? Do you like it?

You: (*munch munch*)

Player Choices:

3-1-1. I-It’s delicious…

3-1-2. Th-This is embarrassing…

Option 3-1-1:

Youtarou: Right! And the scent of strawberries is so nice!

Option 3-1-2:

Youtarou: … Ah!! S-Sorry, I just…!

Youtarou: I-I did that… Haha, I’m getting embarrassed, too…!

Youtarou: I-I was so happy, please forgive me… Ahaha.

Option 3-2 (“Hesitate”):

Youtarou: … Ah!! S-Sorry, I just…!

Youtarou: I-I did that… Haha, I’m getting embarrassed, too…!

Youtarou: I-I was so happy, please forgive me… Ahaha.

[”I’m good” option merges with the rest after this]

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

[Finally, all the choices above merge into one!]

Youtarou: … Ah, right. I brought you a White Day gift!

Youtarou: If you want it, I’d like you to have this.

You: (This is…)

Player Choices:

1. A pouch?

2. A stole?

Option 1:

Youtarou: Yeah. I could’ve also made you a sweater, but I thought it’d be good to give you something you can wear regardless of the season.

Option 2:

Youtarou: Yeah. It’s thin, so I thought it’d be perfect for the coming season.

[Rest is the same]

You: (Is this…)

Player Choices:

1. Did you make it?

2. Did you add some of Gear-san’s fur?

Option 1:

Youtarou: Yeah, I made it. I sell accessories, clothes and dolls like this in an internet store~

Youtarou Ah, that’s not one of the goods I sell there. I made if for you, so I’d be happy if you’d use it.

Option 2:

Youtarou: Ahaha, no, I didn’t! Gear’s fur is really powerful, even if I only weave in a tiny amount.

Youtarou: That has its good sides, but it can be dangerous, too. This is just a normal thing I made.

[Rest is the same]

You: (My White Day gift…)

1. Thank you

2. I’ll cherish it

[Both options lead to the same dialog]

Youtarou: You’re welcome! I’m glad if you’re happy about it.

You: (By the way, today…)

Player Choices:

1. What will we do after this?

2. What’s Gear-san doing?

Option 1:

Youtarou: Ah, I’ve made a reservation for dinner, too. Huh? You’re asking whether it’s a reservation for three people?

Youtarou: … Ahh, I see! On Valentine’s Day, we ate together with Gear, didn’t we?

Youtarou: You see~ Today, I tried making the reservation myself. There’s a delicious fish ‘n’ chips place. When you come to London, you’ve got to eat fish ‘n’ chips at least once, don’t you think?

Youtarou: So… We’ll have dinner just the two of us tonight. I’m a bit nervous.

Youtarou: … Though I say that, it’s not a formal place. It’s the restaurant I always go to.

Youtarou: For me, the best thing is being able to enjoy some calm, relaxing time with the people I care about.

Youtarou: [Your name], thank you for spending the day with me. Let’s leisurely spend our time together until the night.

Option 2:

Youtarou: Gear? I told him in advance that I’d be going out today, so I’d assume he’s doing what he wants on his own.

Youtarou: He said I didn’t have to wake him up in the morning, so I just let him sleep when I left this morning. I think he was up doing something until late yesterday, so he might still be asleep~

Youtarou: You know~ Recently, he’s been really into playing online games with someone. I wonder what he’s paying? It seems like he’s talking a lot on voice chat though.

Youtarou: I don’t do that kind of stuff often, so I don’t really understand it well~ I think you’re put into a team with someone online and then play? Maybe.

Youtarou: Sometimes he comes down into the kitchen in a really bad mood. I’m sure that’s when he was in a fight with the other players. He gets super irritated.

Youtarou: But since it’s through a screen, even someone like Gear can’t hit the opponent. Ahaha, so I figured it’s fine, and just let him do what he wants.

Youtarou: If they were to get into a fight face to face with Gear, they wouldn’t survive it~ If you confront Gear like that, he’s got a really short temper.

(His phone rings)

Youtarou: … Speak of the devil, I’m getting a call from Gear~ Sorry, hang on.

Youtarou: Hello? Gear? What’s wrong? …… You just woke up? You’re sleeping too much.

Youtarou: Dinner? I made a reservation to eat dinner with [your name]. Do you want to come, too?

Youtarou: Okay, got it. See you at 7.

Youtarou: … [Your name], I made a reservation at a fish ‘n’ chips restaurant for tonight’s dinner. Gear wants to come, too, is that okay?

Youtarou: I’d love to relax while talking to the both of you again. Just like Valentine’s Day!

[End]

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

T/N: Youtarou calls you at noon your time. Youtarou is in England, you are in Japan. Noon in Japan means 4AM in London. I’m not judging, my sleep schedule isn’t any better, I just wanted to mention that lmao.

Also, dude brings his knitting stuff to a date lmao. Like I’m aware it’s just, like, his avatar (like how Mahiru has Kitty Kuro with him), but several other characters like Jun, Toru, Misono, or Lily did get separate avatars for the White Day date, so...

[ID: Youtarou from Servamp, who’s standing while knitting a long scarf that’s partially wrapped around him. He has an extra pair of knitting needles in a little pouch on his hip.]

I love how when Gear talks about Youtarou he sounds like a proud dad, but when Youtarou talks about Gear he kinda sounds like a mildly exasperated older brother ashdakldhj

#Servamp #Servamp Youtarou #Youtarou Servamp #youtarou tsumugi #Tanaka Box #Translation #White Day Event #Servamp White Day Event #I wanna eat fish 'n' chips now... #I think this is the longest route so far lmao

[itsuki-minamy]

“KEBAB SPECIAL TOTSUKA”

* Mini Episodes KFCN (List of Chapters) * Projects & Chapters

Translation: Naru-kun Raws: Ridia

Totsuka Tatara started selling doner kebab at a street food stall, because his friend Murat Uchan from Turkey exacerbated his chronic back pain.

"Tatara-san. I'm sorry, but could you take over the shop for about two weeks?"

Before moving to Shizume, Uchan-san, who has been in Osaka for 10 years, consulted with Totsuka, and when he asked about it, he said "Yes, it's okay." and he took it easy. Totsuka immediately drove Uchan-san's mobile kitchen vehicle from the next day to open the shop.

From the preparation of the lamb for the kebabs to the operation, he does everything himself and makes a certain amount of operating profit, although he is not as good as Uchan-san. No matter how much experience he had working part-time, he helped Uchan-san's mobile shop several times in advance, but his culinary skills and managerial sense were far from amateurish.

However, after the first day, Totsuka Tatara's face (albeit smiling as usual) didn't look very happy. Thoughtfully he crossed his arms and devised some plans in his head.

And starting the next day he made some changes in the business style. Of course, with the permission of the Uchan-san.

First, he changed the taste of the kebab. Originally, Uchan-san, who has lived in Japan for a long time, added the Hatcho Miso to the hidden flavor and fixed it for the Japanese, but brought it back to a more ethnic and authentic flavor. There are many foreigners in Shizume and a wide variety of restaurants is thriving, so it was decided that it would be easier to accept.

In addition, the location of the business was moved from the front of the station to the plaza. He makes the most of personal connections, prepare nice chairs, tables and umbrellas, and create an environment where you can eat immediately after taking out. He also changes the paper to a more colorful, modern and more "shiny" one. As a result, the number of clients, mainly young women, increased significantly.

About two days before Uchan-san returned, Totsuka just couldn't go to the store and started hiring Yata as a temporary part-time job.

And his prosperity caught the attention of the lord of the square.

"It's annoying, you…"

At night, a burly man wearing an eye patch appeared in front of Totsuka and Yata, who were preparing to remove the shop, lifted his head neatly, and it was amazing.

"Ah? Who are you?"

Yata, who was not so scared, stood in front of the big man without making a difference in height and ignited the weapon.

"Is he a gangster on the floor? It was a shame if he could get it even for the shoba fee. I'm making a mistake."

"Yata. That person is different. That person is not a gangster."

Totsuka laughed and stepped between the two.

"He is the owner of the 'Man's Innocence'. You see, he is a ramen stand that he opened in front of the fountain."

In addition to the Totsuka kebabs, there are several street vendors operating in this square. Totsuka successfully obtained a business license from the square administration office, and politely greeted each shop, who are his sempais, on the first day. And now, while the owner of the "innocence of man" was standing in front of them...

"Oh, good luck at best."

He raised his voice saying that.

"Did we do something that bothers you?"

When Totsuka asked with a smile,

"No, not really."

The great man finally laughed.

"Suddenly you got sick, so I wonder if you'll be open elsewhere from tomorrow."

(Totsuka-san.)

Yata hid his voice from him and listened.

(This guy has been flirting with us because our kebabs have increased in sales.)

He knew Totsuka and so on.

"What if I say no?"

When Yata screamed and provoked,

"That's right. I don't care... I wonder if an unfortunate accident might happen to him."

The big man spread his hands playfully. He flicked his finger to the side and stuck out his tongue like a villain. Totsuka sighed a little.

"I understand your purpose. So why not do this? Tomorrow, we will compete with the sales of others. And if we lose, we will leave here. How about that?"

"Hmm... okay? Don't you know I've been the number one salesperson in the area for the past few years?"

"Oh. Instead, if we win, can you change the name of your stand, the 'Loser Dog Ramen'? The 'Man's Innocence' sign was always annoying."

Totsuka spat venom as he smiled. He seems mild-mannered, and he is one of Homura's executives, but in an emergency, he will cut off that image. Yata whistled. When the big man frowned...

"You will swallow your words!"

He left that place with abrupt steps. Totsuka and Yata looked at each other and laughed.

Originally, he only came to this plaza temporarily to facilitate Totsuka to do so, and a few days later, if he returned the traveling shop to Uchan-san, the place of business would simply return to the front of the station as before, so, to be honestly, he deliberately bothered to compete in sales, etc. It doesn't make much sense to do it. However, he was willing to accept such threatening words.

"Well, I want to pop a bubble."

That was the case with Totsuka. And Yata also strongly agreed.

The next day, the day of the decisive battle. The sky was clear. As it was a holiday, there were a lot of people. As a rule of the square, the business hours of the stalls are established from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. During that time, the game was how many sales could be increased.

A bowl of ramen costs 600 yen. The kebab costs 500 yen. There is not much difference in price, so simply the number sold will be the game.

The ramen preceded a bit in the morning, but the kebabs gradually started to come off around noon.

"It's amazing! Totsuka-san!"

Yata, who was rushing to cut the meat while he was sweating on his forehead, said that. After wrapping the kebab and handing it to the customer with a smile, Totsuka replied.

"Hey. I advertised a lot."

Totsuka knows everything about this city. How many people are there, in what time zone, and in what age group. Akagi and Bando, who are not at this location, were allowed to distribute promotional brochures at key points in Shizume.

He has also opened a SNS account on behalf of Uchan-san, who had been indifferent to such things for about a week. The announcement there was gradually beginning to take effect.

After fourteen, the victory of the kebab seemed certain...

"Well, isn't it strange?"

Yata asked a question. He was really interested in Totsuka. On the ramen side, the customer base had started to change.

"Man's Innocence" usually had five seats, but today, towards a special eight-seat chair and table around the booth, it was uncomfortable to see all of them, similar, it was occupied by men with a pleasant atmosphere.

They never get up from their seats after eating a bowl of ramen and continue to eat two or three bowls on the spot. Some people look at this and grin or strike a provocative pose.

Then, when he noticed Totsuka's eyes, the owner of "Man's Innocence" crossed his arms behind the counter and smiled a triumphant smile.

Totsuka coughed in a dazed and slightly amused tone.

"I see. Is it a strategy to fill all the seats with your relatives and just replace them no matter if they pretend to be?"

Yata shook his body in anger and clenched his fist.

"Damn."

"Totsuka-san, are you silent?"

Yata said that with the intention of "Let's go hit him." Totsuka scratched his head.

"Hmm. In the beginning, I didn't have any special arrangement to forbid that sort of thing."

To be honest, it is not a violation of the rules. Yata made a plaintive voice.

"Damn."

At that moment, the sight in Totsuka's eyes jumped and he smiled.

"Well, it seems we also have a god of salvation."

Yata also followed Totsuka's line of sight and raised his voice in joy.

"Kamamoto!"

It was Rikio Kamamoto who calmly appeared at the scene.

"What? I heard it from Shohei and the others. If you have a food store, give me a call."

"Eat all you want."

Totsuka immediately told Yata to start preparing more kebab.

In the end, "Man's Innocence" dug his grave by his own strategy. Few strong young men can continue to eat three or four cups of ramen, but Kamamoto is like a kebab. Like sushi and sandwiches, he tossed them into his mouth and ate one after another.

The owner of "Man's Innocence" finished with only an hour left until the closing of the store. When he walked to the front of Totsuka, he took off the headband that was wrapped around his head and took it, tilting his head as he held it in front of his body.

"Well, I give up. It may be unpleasant though, but can you forgive me for changing the signboard?"

Totsuka and Yata looked at each other and smiled.

"Now…"

"That I have to do?"

They were a bit mean and wanted to do it.

"Well, don't raise your head anymore. We won, but you don't have to change the signboard."

"Oh, yeah. At first, we weren't serious either. Oh! Were we the only ones who won?"

Suddenly, the two of them ran out and urged the owner of "Man's Innocence" to raise his head. The owner moistened his eyes.

"Oh, you are a good guy."

He was impressed. However, Totsuka and Yata knew it. Kamamoto, who enjoyed the kebab to the bottom of his heart, made his way towards "Man's Innocence" as he tossed his stomach to change his mood.

Eventually the game was abandoned and Totsuka successfully completed the period entrusted to him and returned the kebab stand to Uchan-san.

Both Totsuka and Yata made a lot of money, but it must have been Kamamoto, who was able to eat delicious food from the bottom of his heart, at the level of once a year or not, who was more satisfied than anyone else.

#k #k project #k fan clan #homura #yata misaki #totsuka tatara #k stories #k seven stories

[dayuwritings]

Paraiba Tourmaline Sacrifices (Part 1)

Rating: Young Adult/YA

Fandom: Psycho Pass

Relationship: Ginoza Nobuchika/Shimotsuki Mika

Characters: Ginoza Nobuchika, Shimotsuki Mika, Frederica Hanashiro, Kei Mikhail Ignatov, Shindo Arata, Kougami Shinya, Sugo Teppei

Language: English

Part: 2

__________________________________________________________

How odd.

Not wanting to waste her time any longer, Shimotsuki Mika calls one of her subordinate. But the person who is now several miles away from her doesn’t pick up the call. It is getting late, and it is out of the schedule plan. It’s sunday, most people probably stay at their house or go out with their family or friends enjoying their day off. But a crime doesn’t care of your beloved day off, it strikes whenever it wants, like it or not. Nearly five hours ago, she rechieved a report to investigate a murder case inside a jewelry shop. She handed it to Division One as it fits with the capability of the aimed division. Their last conversation happened four hours ago, and she hasn’t received further progress from them. According to the report she received, the owner of the jewelry shop is an immigrant from Sri Lanka. She has a hunch that this case will involve The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’s Suppressing Action Departement, or easily known as “S.A.D”. Their involvement is what worries her. She wonders if her subordinates have bumped into them. It’s nothing serious, but she has personal grudge with their assistant officer, who took away her ex-subordinates from her, most of all those who actually capable, and even though she doesn’t want to admit it, her trusted one.

The case is about a murder of an immigrant shop owner, Ranuvitha Semel, who is suspected on having a connection to the black market. The suspect is his own business partner. Ranuvitha used to sells jewelry, as he born from a country which famous of its gemstone. The current missions is to investigate Ranuvitha Semel himself, his business, the person who is suspected as his murderer and lastly, the black market itself. His action on doing such a business without Sibyl noticing is definitely odd. At first, some suspected him as a criminally asyptomatic, before it got debunked as his records shows that he is an ordinary man. The report came after a suspicious actions regarding the business and their sudden increase on purchase numbers.

Several hours later, she finally gets a call. The words on the screen pops up, it’s inspector Kei Mikhail Ignatov.

“How is it?” she asks.

“We are still investigating the matter, inspector Arata just contacted analyst Karanomori to track the suspect after we found out that the now deceased owner of the shop, Ranuvitha Semel, is indeed related with the black market which connected with several countries, including Sri Lanka itself, as his supplier and business partner” the man answers.

“He is a first generation immigrant, all document that isn’t registered and connected with his previous life must still be there—“

“That’s the problem, the suspect took it together with a gemstone, paraiba tourmaline” he adds.

“And how is that possible?”

“We are too late to stop the suspect, I supposed—“

“YOU!” she yells and continues,

“Such a thing like this happened because of your incapability! are you two taking this seriously or not?!”

“We are going to track him down right now, I won’t let such a thing happens again” he says with a sigh.

“AS YOU SHOULD!” she ends the call abruptly, and leans on her chair. She takes a deep breath, and tries to control her anger, which is difficult. While she still controlling her emotions, a video call pops up,

“How is there?” says a woman with honey-blonde hair while smiling teasingly to the screen. The person she wishes to see the least today.  Hanashiro Frederica, an Assistant Officer of Suppressing Action Departement.

“What do you want?!”

“How’s your team doing?” Frederica smiles, but Shimotsuki knows so well what’s behind that smile.

“We are still investigating, and if you and your guys interfere our process, I won’t stay still” Shimotsuki says while pointing her finger to the screen.

“Well, too bad because my people already down there. You know that this also be a case for Ministry of Fereign Affairs” Frederica says. Of course Shimotsuki knows that, but she despises every involvement that come from MoFA. Once again, because of her personal grudge and her dislikeness towards Hanashiro Frederica. The woman on the screen continues,

“Now then, let’s share informations don’t we?” her smile fades, and her voice becomes more serious. But Shimotsuki can’t give anything as her team failed to capture the suspect and now playing Tom and Jerry on the road. She doesn’t want to admit that to her, she’s furious with her current situation, but she tries to be professional.

“My team are still investigating the matter, and if you want information, go ask the people from your own department” she cuts the video call, and returns leaning on her chair. It takes several minutes until she comes back focusing with her own tasks.

It’s getting late, and the sky becomes darker. On the street, behind those wall, and under the bridge, something is creeping. In the world under Sibyl System, Japan has turned into something else. It is peace, but it is also hides monstrosity. It says that people who lives in Japan are good people, because every people with bad personality went to jail, or just, ‘gone’. But who says that good people can’t hate? Who thinks that good people can’t kill? Good people can do what bad people do. It’s just that when they do them, they call it justice. At least, that’s come from a book she ever read before.

Shimotsuki plans to go home, but she hasn’t received anything from her subordinates, so she decides to stay longer in the office. But she’s too impatient, so she calls them instead,

“Progr—“ she says but her words get cuts,

“Chief, what a coincidence I just plan to reach you” the man says, he’s Inspector Shindo Arata.

“Continue…”

“We have captured the suspect, he’s unconscious now. We also collected some evidences regarding his business and it’s connection with the black market…” Arata explains.

“And…?”

“Ranuvitha Semel didn’t know that he was doing a business with a black market, that explain why his crime coefficient stays normal. The black market is hiding under a registered company with the name ‘Hidaka Corporation’, which also the main supplier for a big production company” he adds,

“Big company?” she murmur, “—how is the product, anything strange?” she asks.

“Nothing suspicious with the mass products, but for valuable items like jewelry and gemstone we found out that they mixed unlicensed chemical powder with the gemstone, which can dissolve when you mixed with certain degree of hot water, and um…other things that is now being analyzed by Karanomori Shion-san” a drugs. So they sells gemstones as disguise through a jewelry store to their consumers. That answers the question on why the number of purchases increases for something that people don’t often buy.

“Have you investigate the customers?” she asks.

“We got the data already, and I’ll send them to you”

“Alright, now get back to the office and brings the evidence from the black market”

“Well about that, Chief…” Arata says, nervously.

“We are now with the Suppressing Action Departement from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and they asked for the evidence for further investigation purp—“

“HAH?! NO THEY ARE NOT!”

“Stay right there and don’t let them move any inch! I’ll go to your current location!” Shimotsuki takes her bag and runs towards the lift across her office.

***

Shimotsuki starts her car and sets it to auto-pilot, while she calls towards Frederica Hanashiro.

“I know you will call me” the woman from other side says, she’s still at her office just like when she called her in the evening.

“If you know then stop your people from snatching away of what supposed to be mine!”

“I see, you are on your way to them right? Then I don’t have to bring myself there, one of us is enough” she smiles, and it’s testing Shimotsuki’s patience once again.

“You are not answering me!”

“Ara, in the end the upper will ask us to investigate it after all” Frederica says,

“Then it’s them to decide and not you!”

“We will invite you to our office to discuss this, take this as a request from The Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiate with you”

“And if I refuse?”

“We will apply for a request again” Frederica smirks, she knows that she will get that no matter what. Shimotsuki knows damn well that shes’s that kind of person. And she hates it. At the moment like this, she sometimes wondering what will her senior will do. But thinking about Tsunemori Akane only frustrated her. Not that she hates her, she used too, but as time passes by, Akane is the only senior she looks up onto, and one of people she care for. Even now.

Shimotsuki arrives at the location, the whole Division One is there, also three people from Suppressing Action Departement. Including him. Her trusted one.

She gets out from her car, staring at her subordinates and then to S.A.D. Shindo Arata and Kei Mikhail Ignatov comes to her, and giving her a ‘salute’ pose. She responds to them, and stares back to S.A.D. Her ex-subordinates, Sugo Teppei, walks towards her. She knows what he going to say, but still letting him to say it himself.

“Our chief invited you for a meeting with us to discuss this matter” he says calmly, and he adds

“Just you” Shimotsuki sighs.

“What?” says Kei, feeling unacceptable. And before he shouts at Sugo, Shimotsuki stops him,

“I only accept the offer if you let my two inspectors attending the meeting, other than that, I decline” she says, Sugo looks at his team mates, and they nod to each others.

“Very well” he answers.

They hold the meeting in the meeting room inside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs tower. The room is quiet spacious for a room with just one medium-size coffee table, two big and small dark brown couches. The room is sets with warm temperature since it strats snowing outside. There is three huge windows covered the wall and exposing the outside which is now dark and various color of lights from the city starts appearing. Outside, people are selling Christmas ornaments and cookies. She just realizes that it’s Christmas eve tonight. Shimotsuki didn’t celebrate Christmas last year, she off for work. And it’s looks like it will not be any different for this year too. Even though, she doesn’t really mind, but the longing to rest and relax her mind are strong. The S.A.D team enters the room, it looks like they have been discussing something for a while, but letting the guests waiting while you are the one who invited them quite irritates Shimotsuki.

“You sure took a while” Shimotsuki says as they enters the room.

“Paradon us, we are discussing something”

“Do mind it, my side also has something to do too” she says with annoyed tone.

“Well then, let’s get into the business” Frederica says as she glances towards a man with pony-tail, Ginoza Nobuchika. The man nods, and shares a file to all people in the room. They opens it through their device. The screen shows several profiles of immigrants and also Japanese citizens.

“Let me explain what our side purpose and need is. Before this, we are currently investigating some certain immigrants and Japanese citizens who are involved with the black market under the company of Hidaka Corporation and their connection to a big production company. But we found no evidence since they are using normal products to big company. We try to investigate Hidaka Hikoichi, who is currently the CEO of Hidaka Corporation, but found out he knows nothing regarding the black market under his own company, which was proven right. Until we got a report of suspicious action from a jewelry shop that runs by immigrant. We suspected it has something to do with our previous case of black market under Hidaka Corporation. We can’t continue to progress our previous case without evidence, now that this case brings it, we offer you a help and reach for a bigger goal” he explains.

“How is that profitable to our side?” Shimotsuki says, she frowns. He chuckles and continues,

“We believe MWPSB is a non-profit organization, and of course we will also give our collected reports regarding the Japanese citizens who works under Hidaka Corporation and connected with the black market to you” he adds.

“That is not apple to apple. I give you the evidence, you step further from where you are now, you give me the reports it only enrich my my final report to the higher ground” Shimotsuki says as she crosses her arms, staring at him. But the man who sits in front of her doesn’t shudder, instead he smiles at her. She doesn’t know what the meaning of it, but she doesn’t like it. That look he gives to her is somewhat saying that she’s only a kid who is yet to understand this kind of thing.

“Our report also consists regarding what inside the gemstone, since these people we have investigated might involved with the making of the fake gemstone. Each type of gemstone apparently represents different kind of drugs” he says calmly, still with the same smile.

“What do you mean?” Kei asks.

“This is still our assumptions, but if you accept the offer then you might prove our assumptions. For example we suspect they have cocaine for ruby, cannabis for aquamarine, and ecstasy for sapphire” Ginoza answers. This reminds Shimotsuki of what Inspector Kei mentioned before about paraiba tourmaline.

“There are several type of gemstones which Ranuvitha Semel offers, but according to our investigation, three or perhaps more types of them are connected with this case” Ginoza adds, while sending a file to Shimotsuki and her subordinates. Cocaine for ruby, cannabis for aquamarine, ecstasy for sapphire, and what’s for paraiba tourmaline? There is no tourmaline left, even when her team finally caught the suspect, the paraiba tourmaline has already gone.

Even though, she hates to admit it, she feels tempted. It shows all over her face.

“We can use this Chief” says Arata beside her.

“I can agree with that” Kei adds while looking at the report. Shimotsuki glances at Ginoza’s face, to make it more specific, his ‘winning’ face. Besides him, there is Hanashiro Frederica, who also shows the same expressions, while the other two, Shinya Kougami and Sugo Teppei stays with their unreadable faces. She finally comes to conclusion,

“Alright, i take the offer! With this we are now even, internal matters are our turf. Do not ever interfere with our matters again!” she sees Ginoza with a smirk on his face. She reaches her peak of patience.

“Alright, then it settled” Frederica says while getting up and walks leaving the room, follows by Shinya Kougami and Sugo Teppei.

“It’s nice to have a deal with you, kanshikan” Ginoza says, definitely on purpose.

“kanshikan—“ she murmur, then follows with ‘hmph!’ while leaving the room.

Outside the meeting room, Kougami walks towards Ginoza.

“What’s wrong” Ginoza asks, Kougami only gives a smile.

“Nothing, it’s just you seem enjoying yourself” Kougami says.

“What do you mean?”

“You seem enjoy teasing your own junior” he answers.

“She is not my junior, she is my superior”

“was” Kougami corrects him. He chuckles,

“Right, ‘was’”.

***

The snow is getting a little bit thicker, Shimotsuki is out of Ministry of Foreign Affairs building while watching over her two subordinates, Inspector Kei Mikhail Ignatov and Shindo Arata, leaves the place by car. A white smoke comes out from her mouth, she rubs her palm to warms herself as she walks towards her own car.

“Kanshikan” someone calls over her, and it is no doubt from whom the voice is. Ginoza approaches her while she is about to open the car’s door.

“Saying, kanshikan, are you trying to mock me?” she answers, almost like shouting at him.

“I never intend it like that” he lets out a small laughs.

“Then, what do you want from me now?” she asks, ignoring his laugh.

“Nothing, it’s just are you free tonight?”

“Why are you asking?” she stares at him dumbfoundly, but Ginoza doesn’t answer the question.

“I have to work tomorrow, now that you add more into my work lists” she adds while opens the car’s door but Ginoza suddenly holds the door and closes it back. Shimotsuki stares at him questioningly. He walks closer to her, and whispers to her ear

“Kanshikan, will you accompany me just for tonight?” his breaths feels so hot over her skin, and it gives her shivers.

“Wha-what are you doing?!” she yells while her face is blushing. But Ginoza stay still with his awkward position.

“What happens with you?” she asks once again, but more gentle than before, noticing his weird behavior. Something is wrong, she thinks.

“Alright then, just for tonight right” she says while pushes him from her. He lets out another chuckles, and lands a kiss on the left side of her lips.

“Thank you”

To be continue

  (Author note: the book that mentioned in here is “Strange The Dreamer” by Laini Taylor. Thank you for reading!)

#PSYCHO PASS #Psycho-Pass #Ginoza Nobuchika #Shimotsuki Mika #GinoMika #Fanfiction #Romance #Mystery #Police

[jaymzeecat]

Matsu Merch Sales Blog (coming soon)

***First off: This is NOT a “I’ve fallen out of fandom and don’t want this stuff” post. I’m very much still chained up in the ‘Matsu dungeon, I just have way too many items and not enough space for them. The poor boys have literally been sitting in boxes waiting for someone to love them.***

I’m planning to make a side blog to sell some of my Osomsatu San Merch. Not today, ‘cause lazy... but some time in the future. I have a ton of stuff I’d like to rehome but I also don’t want to clog up this feed with a lot of merch posts ‘cause a lot of people aren’t interested in that.

So, just consider this a heads up for anyone who is interested. Keep an eye out, I’m sure I’ll do some crossposting initially. Shipping will only be to the US (because honestly anywhere else and it would be more economical for you to buy directly from Japan). 

Items will mostly be everyone other than Kara & Ichi since they are my favorite. But I do have a few duplicates and extras of those boys too.

Anyway, there will be more details of course once the blog goes up. If y’all have any fun name suggestions for said blog, feel free to lay ‘em on me, haha.

#osomatsu san #merch