minanini

[minanini]

Asakiku week 2025 Day 4

Entry to the @asakikuweek2 Day 4

Characters:

England (Hetalia)

Japan (Hetalia)

Additional Tags:

Omegaverse

Words: 1,368

Link to the AO3

When they met, he felt like the spring came anew. Like flowers bloomed in his chest, like buds outside started forming fully grown petals, yet it was just some meeting with someone who will forget about him anyway soon enough. He was petite, true, but his proper and full of pride posture was telling everything – yeah, that guy was at least a beta from some wealthy family that had some weight on the society. Or even an alpha, judging by his mannerisms. Well, Arthur wasn’t one to care that much about that anyway – it was just a small crush on someone who will forget that they crashed into each other the other day. It wasn’t a big deal, he was sure.

He was sure, but then he started seeing him everywhere he went – how could this manager be everywhere? Whenever Kirkland looked... he was there, standing in the corner of his eyes, making him go insane. Arthur never was a person to fall for appearances only, but then Kiku Honda happened. His black, deep eyes were captivating. The way he spoke was charming – calm and cold, but at the same time you could hear some soft notes that were popping up here and there. His silk black hair also was a treat to look at – Honda was looking well after them, it seems. Well, at least he gave Arthur such an impression.

And also, he was a workaholic. And he never ate properly, even if he needed to. Also, he liked to play some mobile phone games. And he was really secretive. He was never attending after work drinking parties, and he always ignored those who tried to look further into him. But... well, Arthur wasn’t like this. He was just his subordinate that loved seeing that super serious man around. It was just a simple, childish crush that Kirkland had a plenty of, thus he didn’t think about it hard enough.

Didn’t think, until the moment he felt some sweet and alluring scent. He tried his best to hide underneath the mask of some simple beta, even using scent masking perfumes to help maintain the beta facade, his real secondary gender. He never wanted to be entangled in relationships anyway. At least, well, judging from his family, relationships were only big mistakes that were never worth all the energy you were giving into nurturing them. So he never had a partner, never had relationships and was perceived as a simple beta, although he was an alpha. It wasn’t something big to Kirkland anyway.

...But that sweet scent of sweets with sakura flavour were alluring him to follow it. Follow it just out of pure interest – who could possess such a sweet scent? Arthur’s interest was stronger than his common sense. Even if his mind screamed “curiosity killed the cat”, his legs were walking to the source of that sweet smell. Though, he had other reasons. Yeah, curiosity was coming first, but second was “why’s someone still here?”. Working hours ended half an hour ago, so almost everyone was home at this point. It was just Arthur that had to print out some documents, thus he couldn’t go home yet...

...But there was someone else, too. And it was probably omega, that was even more troubling – omega in heat and going home all alone? Okay, no, never in Hell Arthur could let that happen. That was the biggest merit of him being perceived as the beta – omegas could rely on him more easily. ...That was probably his older brother's influence. But, even if he was an omega, he was also really strong for one and he always taught Arthur how he needs to be really gentle with omegas.

Thus, he was ready to see some omega from another department or so and ask them if they needed some help or not. But instead he stood there frozen, looking at his manager that was sitting on the floor with closed eyes. Arthur was shocked. Kiku Honda, weakly breathing in and out, was sitting there on a floor, not moving at all, even if he heard someone was coming.

“...Honda-san?”

He finally felt that his mind was ready to finally move from the frozen state, and he started getting closer to Kiku. Omega, it seems, only moved his head a little, looking at Kirkland. He didn’t say anything, just shook his head, closing his eyes again.

“...No, I won’t go anywhere. Should I... C-can I help you? Do you have any suppressants on yourself, or...?” “No.”

It was such a loud, assured “no”, that it made Kirkland freeze up a little yet again. Yeah, even if he was an omega, his personality was remarkable – it was so... so admirable, actually. But Kirkland had no time to swoon over how cool Kiku was. He needed to help him get back home.

“I see. ...U-uh, can I help you get back home, then?” “I don’t know.”

This time it was said in a more tired tone, but Kiku changed his position, looking at the blond man with pained eyes and red cheeks. 

“...I live close by. But... I can hardly walk... without suppressants.” “Ah... y-yeah, I know. Some omegas don’t feel their legs when they’re in heat... or so, right?” “Right. ...I don’t think I’ll be able to get back home on my own.”

But then Arthur only sighed and got closer to Honda. Taking his hand, making him stand up and sit on his back wasn’t hard – he was actually quite light. Even if it was rude of him to do so without asking, Honda didn’t seem to be all that against it. 

“...I see.” “Well then, are there things you need to take with you?” “...I'll leave them here. I’ll get them tomorrow.” “Okay. Oh, but– can I get my suitcase?” “Mhm.”

*

It was really strange – the Honda that he liked, so close to him. Everyone was looking at them curiously, but not for long. And alphas that were passing them were constantly driven away by the stern look of Arthur. He doesn't need someone laying their hand on his manager. And, actually, they got to Kiku’s flat faster than Arthur thought they would. Only twenty minutes – and they’re at their destination. 

“Keys in my pocket...”

Arthur nodded, slowly searching in each of Honda’s pockets. And, thank God – he found them! Car key, some strange small key... ah, that’s probably the needed key. He opened up Kiku’s home and slowly took off his shoes. “...His house looks a bit... messy, to be honest.” thought Arthur, looking around in his tries to find a bedroom. 

Finally, he found an opened door with a bed in it and, well, it was dark there... but even so, it was obvious that the room was even messier than the entrance hall. Arthur slowly put Kiku on his bed and accurately tried to take the jacket off Honda, but the other’s hand stopped him.

“No need. ...T-thank you.” “No problems, Honda-san.”

Honda closed his eyes, probably wanting to fall asleep. But Arthur decided to, before getting out of this flat, get Kiku his glass of water and damned suppressants. It took him some time (because, apparently, Kiku had three medical kits that had drastically different contents) to find them, but he felt like a winner after finding them.

...And then he saw Honda peacefully sleeping. He was different from his older brother, who couldn’t sleep at all during heat. Or was it pre-heat...? Kirkland didn’t know and decided to leave it be. But, before going away, he gently caressed Kiku’s cheek, smiling a little. He was so petite, yet so cool, making Kirkland always look only at him... oh, how funny.

He closed the door and left keys under the carpet before entrance.

...He will keep it a secrets. That he knows that Kiku is omega, that he’s a bit messy and that Arthur gave in, allowing himself to caress Kiku a little. It will be three secrets that he will keep with himself. And he will keep it a secret from Honda – that Arthur was an alpha. Because, if so... what will he think of him?..

...Yeah, better keep it up as a secret.

[minanini]

Asakiku week 2025 Day 3

Entry to the @asakikuweek2 Day 3

Characters:

England (Hetalia)

Japan (Hetalia)

France (Hetalia)

America (Hetalia)

Additional Tags:

hetalia gangsta

Cameos

america's cameo

france's cameo

Pool & Billiards

Words: 1,849

Link to the AO3

Being here felt strange. He heard about many different games that you can play to spend your time like golf, football, volleyball, tennis... moreover, at least he was somewhat fine at playing these games and, well, he was good at tennis. But he never ever was thinking about “billiards”. Moreover, never had he heard of it or played it, this standing here with that strange stick was making him nervous.

He never intended to participate. He never intended to play. He was just dragged here by Hero, who was really eager to make a poor Japanese young man (or not so?) play into his games. And while Kiku indeed wasn't against going somewhere, he was thinking that they will go bowling.

Well, plans changed, it seems. So now the representative of the 81st district found himself in the most embarrassing position ever. He found himself being lost, while looking at everyone having fun playing this... game. They were trying to put balls into the holes by pushing them with that stick (what's it called...?) and, basically, it was looking almost like golf, but on the table and... with many other strange traits. But the system almost looked like golf. ...At least it looked like.

But then he felt that someone started standing behind him. These sturdy, loud steps were quite familiar, so when he turned back, he didn't feel that surprised – it was Lord with his usual punk fashion sense. He was holding that stick as well, looking quite fond of something, if Iemoto was to judge from that smirk alone.

...Was he winning, perhaps?

“Hey, Iemoto.” “Ah... Go... good evening, Lord-san.” “Lost something or someone? Or...?” “Ah... eh... n-no, no, I didn't. I just... uh...”

It was hard to express what he got himself into. To tell someone that you know absolutely nothing about the game you came to play is foolish. Yet here he was – an idiot standing right before Lord, trying to find the right excuse for his idiocy...

“Can you... put your cue down?” “...Eh?” “Um, the stick you're holding. Cue stick.” “Ah. O-oh, sorry. I'm really sorry.” “No, it's fine. Though... I could never imagine someone holding it like some kind of sword.”

Lord smirked even wider, but then looked somewhere away. Iemoto slowly followed his gaze, stumbling across the... ah. Hero. Was Lord looking at Hero, who was occupied by his game with Korol’?

“You were dragged into this, weren't you?” “...I fear so. I was expecting us to go bowling, to be honest.” “Yeah, I know. It was because of me.” “Because of you...?” “Well, the fact that he changed today's meeting game. I challenged him to play against me, saying that he will never beat me.” “Oh.” “So, as you can see.” “...Did he win?”

Lord looked at Iemoto with contentment in his eyes, now actually smiling.

“I said that he will never win against me, no? I'm second to no one when it comes to billiards.” “...I see. It's actually... impressive, Lord-san.” “...Y-you think so, Iemoto...?”

It was peculiar. Lord, that was looking all prideful moments ago, now was more akin to some shy schoolgirl that asked someone out. He lowered his eyes, moving his hand to the left a little, touching his neck with his hand... Was it because of what Iemoto said? If so, it's unexpected. Unexpected of Lord, yes, but even more than unexpected... It was cute.

“I do. Beating Hero over something is hard.” “Yeah, I know. But also I know this little shit’s moves as my own! So he can only dream about winning against me, ha!” “...Ha-ha. Really? How great.” “...Y-yeah, I guess.”

And then they went silent. Just them standing together, looking anywhere but each other. It was... embarrassing. Embarrassing to just stand with Lord that was, it seems, quite knowledgeable about this billiards game. Yet Honda weren't. He even forgot how this stick is called, although Arthur said its name minutes ago! So it was over. It was better to keep himself shut, not opening his mouth to embarrass himself and–

“Want me... to teach you how to play...?”

The pair of black eyes hastily looked into the pair of green. 

“T-teach? M-me...?” “D-don’t get the wrong idea...! I-it’s not like I want to teach you or whatever! B-but looking at you, standing here all alone– It's making me... u-uh... ...F-forget about it! I-it's nothing!”

He was ready for Lord to dash away or to walk away as fast as possible, but he just... stayed at the same place he was standing before, changing his posture a little. So, was he waiting for Iemoto’s answer? Or something else...? Although, if it's “something else”, Iemoto had no idea what exactly it could be. But even so...

“...Are you sure?” “Huh?” “Lord-san, are sure you won't mind teaching me how to play billiards? Wouldn't it be... troublesome to you?” “What? Never. I said that I'm good, so– Really, I don't mind teaching you. ...And I feel a little bit responsible, since, well, it's because of me you're so lost now...” “I... see. ...It's nice of you, Lord-san. Then... if you don't mind... ...Please, teach me how to properly play billiards.”

Lord gave Iemoto a smile, shaking his head in approval.

“Let's go then. I saw there was one table that was empty and no one used it to play... So let's go. It'll be our playing table.” “Mhm. Gladly, Lord-san.”

*

Feeling someone's whole hands on his own was a sensation he never felt. Yes, Osaka was touching his palms from time to time, trying to pull him somewhere or make Iemoto hurry. It was something usual, and he was somewhat used to such physical contact. But he wasn’t used to feeling someone else’s warmth against his body; he wasn’t used to someone gently holding his hands and palms, changing their position to “more comfortable and correct”. He wasn’t used to Lord that was so gentle, so gentle that it almost felt like a fantasy.

“Here,” he says in a hushed voice so that only Honda could hear him. “You changed your finger's position again. Stop being so unsure, or you won’t make a good strike, Iemoto.”

He takes Iemoto’s palm in his once again, gently helping 81st district representative take cue stick more “confidently”. Yet, in fact, all that could do Kiku was feel how warmth was going straight to his cheeks. And he felt that it was going there even faster when Lord put his hand onto Iemoto’s waist.

“Much better. Now, strike the white ball so that it will hit the yellow. But don’t be too pushy or rushing – find the perfect balance as I showed you before. And don’t forget about the angles, or it will completely change its trajectory.”

Iemoto wanted to say that he understood his objective, but instead could only look at the white ball before him anxiously. Well, if this ball won’t fall into that hole, Lord won’t scold him anyway, right? ...Thus, Iemoto breathed in and struck the white ball with a cue, looking how it bumped into the yellow one and... oh, it fell into the hole. 

“Great.” a blond man patted Iemoto’s back, humming happily. “You actually might be talented at billiards, if you will practice enough, of course.”

“Was he always this touchy...?” were the only thoughts in Iemoto’s mind. He hardly could remember him being this tactile, but it didn’t feel wrong. Just... made Iemoto’s heart beat faster. And it was strange, because Lord didn’t even notice it. But, well, he was here just to teach Iemoto how to play billiards, right...?

That was the moment when someone stepped in with loud steps. It was... oh. Hero.

“Ay yo, ya two having a play-off here or what?” “I’m teaching Iemoto how to play.” “Wow, really? He didn’t know how to play?” “Precisely. Thus, I decided to–” “Cool! Lemme show you how to play, then!”

But instead of agreeing, 81st representative stepped back, holding the cue stick closer to him. It’s not that he didn’t want to play with Alfred, but– he didn’t want to embarrass himself either. So it was a hard choice – to agree or to decline, since it might affect their relationships. Parties like this usually always affect district relationships. And that’s why rarely someone could ignore them. But right now–

“Eh? Iemoto, what’re y–” “He’s still learning, Hero. Back off.”

Lord stepped closer to the leader of the 1st street. Iemoto couldn’t see his face, but a little frown from Hero made Kiku think about that, maybe, Lord will...?

“I’ll be the one tutoring him how to play real billiards. Or should I remind you that I crushed you with only 7 strikes?” “Hey! It wasn’t fair! I never knew there was a scoring system thing, and–” “I won. That’s it. So shoo, leave, go on, there’s Owner waiting for you.” “...Mweh. Killjoy.” “Always a pleasure to be one.”

And then Jones actually left. He was mumbling something to himself, although the farther he was going, the harder it was to hear his mumbles. But then Lord turned around and gave Iemoto a gentle smile yet again. ...It was unbearable, to be honest.

“Shall we continue our lesson?” “...Gladly. Ah, but– what about the scoring system?” “It’s a bit early for you. To get to the scoring part, we need to teach you how to play and some rules first, alright?”

Iemoto shooks his head in approvance, turning back to the table. And then he felt Lord’s body heat against his own yet again and it– it made his head go in circles.

...Lord is so unfair.

*

He was sitting at the bar, looking at how Iemoto was talking to some Asian district representatives. They spent almost two hours together while Arthur was helping him to learn how to play billiards. It felt... really comfortable.

Until the moment Hero said “You two had a nice date there!”. It felt like lightning struck Lord. It struck him even harder when Hero continued: “Sorry I butted in, didn’t read the atmosphere at first! Bur Parrain told me that I got in your way, so, yeah, sorry for getting mad at you, ha-ha-ha!”. Date? Butted in? Parrain said WHAT?!

...But, instead of arguing, they were sitting together at the bar. Francis was drinking some champagne, while Lord decided to stay sombre and just order a non-alcoholic cocktail.

“You're never going to change, are you, cowardly lion?~ ♪” “...What?”

Lord looked at Parrain with disgust.

“Always running away, never understanding the opportunities you have... Even though you actually love him, you stay as silent as stone. Oh, poor soul! Romance was never given to you, and even when you had a chance– you just lost it, pf-f-ft!” “One more word and you'll become roasted frog legs, asshole.”

Yet the 33rd district representative shook his head with the slyest smile ever seen.

“But the one who's cooked here is you, not me, mon amie.” “...Shut it.”

He looks at Iemoto for the last time today, slowly moving his gaze to the violet-coloured cocktail.

[minanini]

Asakiku week 2025 Day 2

Entry to the @asakikuweek2 Day 2

Characters:

Japan (Hetalia)

England (Hetalia)

Additional Tags:

Alternate Universe - Witchcraft

Mystery Stories

Flowers

Words:1,466

Link to the AO3

White rose was as innocent as the white petals it possessed.  Orange rose was as happy as the orange petals it possessed. Blue rose was as mysterious as the blue petals it possessed. Red rose was...

Honda looked up, holding a bouquet of the white chrysanthemums that he bought not so long ago. The church he was going to be built on the hill that was situated away from the little village he stayed for his summer break. He was a simple student from Japan learning design in England. In fact, he could return to Japan, true, but his friend Alfred took him to some small old village. He was trying to get inspiration for his comic, while Honda was just... tagged along. Nothing more.

But the more time he spent there, the more he started liking this village. It even had its own little legend, although a strange one – it was titled as the simple “Four roses”. Jones didn’t like it, calling it some “old and boring fairy tale for toddlers”, but Kiku was fascinated by it.

Four brothers of the one house that were called by the roses that were growing in their garden. White Rose brother was the eldest, and he was titled as the “most innocent of them all”. He was a bit stern, but he possessed a kind soul and innocent heart, so he left the village to help another one. And then he vanished; so did white roses – they withered the day the brothers heard that White Rose brother was no longer alive.

The second brother was trying to help them get through the hard mourning times, as he was trying to live up to his title “the happiest of them all”. He smiled, sang and danced – he’d done anything for his two brothers to smile. Yet one day this poor rose withered as well, since he couldn’t bear the responsibilities he was met with. He was found lying in his red blood among the orange roses that were tainted with the blood. “I’m sorry” was the only message Orange Rose brother left for his younger brothers that were deeply wounded by the sadness and mourning...

But the third brother did nor succumb to despair; he decided to run away from the village instead. It was rumoured that he was a powerful mage or even a witch, so slowly, the village was turning their backs on the brothers... Yet when he heard the “no” from his younger brother, he didn’t persuade him to change his answer, he just accepted it and mysteriously, as he was titled “the most mysterious of them all”, disappeared, never being heard of ever again. Yet his roses did not fell or withered; they were alive, as were alive red roses.

No one remembered how Red Rose brother looked like. But every storyteller of the village was telling as the one: he was wicked. The actual witch of them all and the one who made poor brothers wither, always remembering how the Orange Rose brother died, while his roses were tainted with the bloody red...

Yet one kind French man told Kiku something more about this brother. He was the youngest and the most closeted off. He never talked with outsiders, yet he was always known for his healing abilities – he was the best healer in the village. Harsh, a bit rude, but gentle healer that was doing his job as no one could do. He was mourning every brother in his own way – he came up with the medicine he named after the White Rose brother and he left a self-drawn portrait of the Orange Rose brother for everyone to see. 

But one day, blue roses just disappeared without any trace. Thus, he was proclaimed the last and only brother of the roses. Red rose was left all alone with his healing duties, yet one day something drastic happened–

Kiku gently put the flowers down on the tombstone. It was foolish of him to feel sorry for someone who probably was just wrongly accused of the witchhood, but he couldn’t help himself. Not when that French man was telling how much he cared for the garden and how hard he was trying to help people during the strange pandemic that occurred. Yet, he was met with the raging townsfolk that decided that Red Rose was the one who wronged all of them and made the God angry with the village, thus being the reason for the strange illness among them.

...It’s idiotic. Kiku knew that. Yet this bouquet that was lying now on the old stones that were forming the “Rose brother’s tombstone” and he could only question where the red rose was on it. White, orange, and blue... yet no red. It was saddening; it was...

“Oh my,” Kiku turns around to see someone in the black robe with their hood on. Although the voice was more of a man than of a woman, he couldn't tell who that was... “I could never imagine that someone would put flowers on this grave after all... these years.”

The figure came closer, taking chrysanthemums in their arms. Kiku didn’t see their faces, so he could hardly understand what exactly this person was doing and feeling, but somehow they felt... really strange. They didn’t feel like someone really dangerous, yet they didn’t look like someone to be trusted. 

“What’s the name of these flowers, buddy?”

This question was a strange one. Aren't chrysanthemums a well known flowers in Europe...?

“...Chrysanthemums, sir.” “I see. So it’s not roses, after all... how peculiar.” “You think so...?” “Usually, people leave white, orange and blue roses here. Usually white ones.”

The person took the bouquet, pressing it into their chest. And, somehow, it felt rather... endearing, although it wasn’t their bouquet. Yet they acted like it was meant for them and it was creepy; creepy, but somehow charming.

“I thought it would be really rude to the youngest brother...” “Oh, you’re about that wicked witch?” “...I-I’m sorry?” “You didn’t know? He was the witch that killed his brothers. ...Or, so the townsfolk say.”

“I don’t believe that.”

The other person hummed with interest: “Really?”

Kiku answered with honesty in his eyes: “Really.”

The person laughed. It almost sounded like hysterical laughter. Kiku even stepped back, feeling that it might be the time for him to run away. But then the person took their hood off, showing a... quite handsome young man. His green eyes pierced through Kiku; his smile made Kiku gulp a little. He was blond, taller than Kiku, and he was looking at him like he was looking through his very soul.

“I see. What an unusual guest I have here.” “...“Guest”...?”

The man walked closer, touching Kiku’s chin gently. He gave him the sweetest smile, but then he put his finger onto Honda’s lips, telling him to be silent with this gesture.

“I have good advice for you, youngster,” he tilted his head, looking somewhere away. “Sometimes folks are right, sometimes they are not. Never try to think who’s in wrong and who’s in right by yourself. It's futile,” he laughs a little, taking his hand from Kiku’s chin. “Since the truth was lost long ago. But hear my yet another advice...”

Kiku felt that someone was standing behind him now; it was the man with the charming green eyes. He was before him a second ago, yet now he was behind, still holding Kiku’s bouquet close to himself. He gently put his free hand onto Kiku's waist, leaning closer to his ear.

“No one mourns the wicked. And so should you. Never mourn me.”

The next moment Honda blinked, there was no one. No other person, no flowers, nothing – just a simple warm wind blowing somewhere far, far away...

The next morning, Kiku found a strange, peculiar vase on his bedside table that was never meant to be there. It was really simple with a bad shape, but... what was inside really made Kiku give out a sigh of shock. White rose, orange rose, blue rose... and two red roses. Yet the moment Kiku touched the coloured roses they withered – only a lonely, white one was left. And somehow, it made Kiku’s heart race. 

Later, he would find a note underneath the vase. 

You probably heard the story of the Rose Brothers, I believe, right? But they never tell what red rose was, so let me tell you. Red rose was as bloody as the red petals it possessed. Be aware, my dear chrysanthemum. Never trust anyone, even me; even your friend. Yet don’t try to push me away or pull me closer, since I’m always near. May this rose bloom into the colour of the feelings you will feel for me. I hope it won’t be black. – Arthur.

[minanini]

👁👁...

👄🫦

[minanini]

Asakiku week 2025 Day 1

Entry to the @asakikuweek2 Day 1

Characters:

England (Hetalia)

Japan (Hetalia)

Additional Tags:

Idol AU

Fluff

Words: 2,857

Link to the AO3

This collaboration wasn’t of Arthur’s liking. Yet he couldn’t say a clear “no” to his management, not this time. Because last time he declined a collaboration with some idol and that idol collaborated with someone else, that collaboration got so popular that it almost became synonymous to the “lost opportunity” in Arthur’s career. At the same time, he wasn’t a songwriter for idols, nor was he an idol performer. Just a solo-singer that got his popularity blooming in the last three years. But exactly because of his growing popularity he was often told that he needed some kind of pace changing; he needed something brand new, since his last full album... selled worse than was anticipated.

No, his sales still were high, better than some average singers had, that’s true. But his agency was hoping for him to get into the top-10 listened artists, yet... well, top-20 was still a good placement, but it was a result worse than was needed. And that’s why management demanded collaboration. And that’s why they decided to go with the artist that had a wholly different vibe from him.

The “kawaii”. He “cuteness”. The “pureness”. Kirkland could swear that he was about to puke hearing that he had to do something “cute”. Being cute wasn’t his talent; in fact, how could he be cute when he couldn’t even imagine himself being so! Freels? Oh God, never! He will never wear them, although when he was younger he tried to... but even the whole “disaster” word won’t depict the catastrophe that happened then. Cute light colors? Never in Hell! He would rather die than see himself dressed all pretty and cute. 

Yet here he is, sitting in the conference room, waiting for the other party to arrive. He could feel slight anxiety getting to him, although it was probably because of the fact that the blond young man had no idea how to act around the guy he was supposed to be in a collaboration with. Moreover, they probably might form a unit, or so his own agency wishes to. For Arthur, though... it’s the least desirable outcome.

He knows nothing about Kiku Honda, the one he was supposed to collaborate with. Arthur tried to find more about this “mysteriously cute”, as he was promoted, idol, but he found the whole zero about him. Even his groupmates were more cooperative at interviews than this mysterious ass! ...But, his singing was good. Really good, good enough for Kirkland to appreciate his voice and skills. But he knew one thing for sure – and it was that he would have to be prepared for the “cute” concept, since it was probably something that his fans demanded for a long time. Even for Valentine Day he never wore anything fancy, nor cute – only punk fashion and that’s it.

So now... his thoughts were occupied with the whole “cute” word. No, he and cuteness won’t work out, and no way they will. This collaboration will fail, too. Arthur’s sure about that. 

He became even more sure about it when he saw Kiku Honda in real life. A petite, fragile figure; deep and mysterious black eyes; cool and cold atmosphere that was all around him. Although he was different from all these promotion videos or interviews, yeah, he was looking even colder, one thing was the same – he wasn’t the one talking. His manager was constantly talking and even when Hinda wanted to say something, he stayed silent since his manager didn’t notice what his idol wanted.

That was the moment Arthur finally said something.

“Can Honda-san speak for once? Like, I don’t care about the cute concept, fine, no objections. But Honda-san was actively trying to say or ask something.” all eyes were now on Arthur, who only could “tsk” at his manager and manager of this strange Kiku. But then this strange idol nodded, looking right at Kirkland.

“Thank you, Kirkland-san. ...Although, you already answered my question.”

“...Huh?” “I wanted to ask you about the concept. Or, to be precise, I wanted to confirm that you are fine with the ‘cute’ concept.”

Arthur looked at Kiku with a little surprise, but then looked away. It’s not like he had any say in this anyway, but... Playing that he’s agreed to this will be for the best. That’s why he shook his hand, showing the idol a little smirk on his face.

“I want to show the whole of Japan that I’m capable of different genres. That’s why I don’t mind being cute for once.”

“I see. Thank you.”

...After that it was only their managers talking. Both artists were mostly silent, sitting across from each other. But then Arthur happened to catch Kiku’s glances at him here and there. He was sitting on his phone, then, when he was sure that Arthur “looked somewhere away”, he was glancing at the musician. After a few seconds of glancing, he was returning his attention to the phone’s screen. And that felt... strange. It felt strange to be interesting to someone. Was it because of Arthur’s appearance that was foreign to Japan or was it because of something personal? 

He couldn’t get it, so he just pretended that he didn’t catch these strange stares. That he was also looking at his phone, scrolling through some twitter accounts here and there, and not looking at Kiku. And anyway, this meeting was soon over, so Athur could forget about this collaboration for some time... 

Or so he thought. But his manager had a different opinion – he said that he needed to contact Kiku, and that was how he got his number and LINE account. It was... strange. Since, well, that was a simple LINE account. Nothing out of the original – just a cat picture, profile wallpapers with his unit members and... that’s it. But why did he have to contact this idol? Well, Kirkland had no idea. “To get on better terms with him” was the only thing he was told, but it’s not like they will become closer by just talking on LINE anyway...

That’s why he could only think of sending that one cat sticker that he liked very much. But then he remembered – he needs to tell Honda who’s on Earth writing to him.

“Good Evening. It’s Kirkland. I hope we’ll get along.”

The answer was also a cat sticker with “let’s get along” on it. And... that’s it. Well, Arthur heard that Kiku wasn’t of the talkative folks, but it didn’t bother him anyway. Although, he needed something from him indeed...

“I’m sorry for this sudden question, but can you recommend to me your favourite songs from your group?” “Okay. But for what?” “I need to know what kind of song I should write.”

“You will be writing our song, Kirkland-san?” “Well, I plan on at least helping out.” “I see. Can you give me some time?” “If it won’t take you a week, then okay.” “It won’t. Thank you.”

“No problem. I’ll be waiting.”

*

These songs... were something. Arthur couldn’t say that he disliked them per se, but he didn’t like them either. It was a simple synth pop with some super cutesy lyrics about either being in love or saying how they loved their listeners. A total opposite of what Kirkland was usually writing, and that made him question himself – where did he turn wrong if now he had to collaborate with an idol from a super cute idol unit? They didn’t have any guitar in their songs whatsoever! So what he decided for sure is that he will make them add guitar or he simply won’t sing... or will have a tantrum. Or something else, he’ll come up with something since every one of management knew how stubborn he was to get what he wanted. 

But then he decided to ask... Kiku, all of the people, about his opinion on guitar as the main instrument in the song.

“I don’t think I mind. You love guitar very much, right, Kirkland-san?” “Yeah. I can’t see my life without bass and guitar in it, and so goes for my songs. But it’s a relief. Knowing that you don’t mind me using the guitar.”

“I actually would be glad if our song would be... more of your style.”

“Really?”

Arthur raised his eyebrows.

“Yes. I always wanted to sing a song with a rock feeling to it.”

“Oh, I see. Well, then it’s a win-win for us.”

“If so, I’m happy.”

“Yeah, so am I.”

*

Actually, working with Honda was kinda... easy. Or even enjoyable. He was actually a person of facts – he never tried to butt in in stuff he wasn’t knowledgeable about. But he was the one who helped Arthur to get over with lyrics without it being too “withdrawn”. In fact, this song turned out to be too cute in terms of lyrics – just a quarrel between lovers over a puding. But the arrangement was fully made by Arthur, so he didn’t mind singing this silly cute love song.

It was actually... pretty much refreshing – doing something out of his style. And singing it was actually really fun, although he could never think that Kiku was able to poke fun at someone, really. His perception of Honda was a “reliable, cool guy”. But when it came to recording and it was a bit dull, Kiku, with a straight face, suggested:

“Can we add some tsundere adlibs during the song? I think Kirkland-san will handle it perfectly especially.”

The worst thing is that he then suggested things like “whatever, I don’t care” or “Ugh, I hate you!”, saying that it will “spice up” the song. As he said, “boo’s aren’t enough”! And that’s why two of them were just saying some impromptu tsundere lines...although Kiku actually looked like he was smiling. And it was unbearable, because, well, yeah, he was often told that he acted like a tsundere. He was often told that he is a tsundere. But being made to say some tsunderish lines for a song? Well, that was the first time for him, and he couldn’t handle it! That’s why with his last “okay, I don’t care!” that actually was said to Kiku, he came out of the recording booth, feeling... embarrassed. 

Yeah, his reason was a stupid one. Yeah, Kiku probably didn’t mean to humiliate him and he just wanted this song to be better, but– but it was too much! Too much for his prideful soul! That’s why he decided to sit a bit farther from the other stuff, while Kiku was still trying to come up with something. But it didn’t feel “right enough”, so he got stuck there for another good half an hour.

“Good job.” said Arthur, giving Kiku his bottle of water. “Although, you really struggled there, eh?”

“...I’m not good at expressing my emotions if it’s not for a song.”

“Hu-u-uh.”

They both were sitting close to each other, silently looking somewhere far away. But... It wasn't uncomfortable. Usually, sitting silently with someone was a real ordeal, but with Honda it was... easy. Or nice. Yeah, probably nice.

“By the way, Honda...” “Yes?” “...Can you call me by my name?” “Eh?”

It was a strange request, indeed. And for a Japanese guy that was overly polite even in his daily life it was probably even shocking, but... Kirkland just couldn’t take it anymore – he hated these familiarities more than he could ever imagine. Even his own manager was calling him by name, and so Kiku couldn’t be an exception.

“I know it’s strange – to ask someone to use my name, but... Please. It’s more comfortable for me this way. And anyway, we’re stuck with each other for another month or two, right?”

“...Right.”

“So ‘Arthur’ is enough, okay?”

“...Is it really okay?” “Absolutely. Go on.”

Kiku takes a deep breath, but then smiles a little.

“Arthur-san.”

“Yeah, better.”

And then they fell silent again. It wasn’t for long though.

“...Then, can you call me by my name too, Arthur-san?”

*

Shooting the music video was yet another problem Arthur could never predict. The setting for it was as clear as the sky in July – a pair of dorks in love, arguing because of the silliest reasons. They both were dressed pretty much cozy – slippers, sweaters, sweatpants, aprons and some cute accessories to make their looks cuter. 

Choreography wasn’t a hard one. After all, everyone knew that Kirkland never was an idol and was more of a musician – he was playing his bass or guitar on stage while singing, but never dancing. It was his first time ever trying himself as an “idol”, learning all these moves or fanservice during the choreography. But it was... it was actually fun. And it was pretty much comfy shooting dance moves in their music video costumes, but the problem that Arthur could never predict was–

The “oshi” moments for the said MV. Where he was supposed to look into a camera, doing some fanservice acting. It was... the worst part of the shooting, being honest. It was coming out even worse than he was anticipating. Kirkland could never call himself a bad actor, but this music video told him that it was just him being in his comfort zone, not him being good at acting.

It was Kiku who helped him to shoot these scenes. 

“...Okay, Arthur-san. Look at me.”

“I’m looking.”

“With your eyes.”

He moved his eyes to Honda, but was greeted by the camera's lens. So he moved his eyes away yet again.

“...I just can’t say it looking into the camera, okay?!” “Huff... Please, Arthur-san. It’s thirty seventh take and you–”

“I know! But I just– I just can’t look into this camera with the ‘sweetest smile I’ve ever shown’! Nuh-uh! Never in my life!”

“...But please?”

It was the moment he felt like something touched his hand and– it was Kiku’s hand. He took it and gave Arthur the sweetest smile he had ever seen. Only for him.

“...Please? We need to get it done as soon as possible, Arthur-san.”

“...I-I can’t.”

“Please. If you will... um... I will make you a present?”

“...Eh?”

Arthur looked at Kiku with a surprise in his eyes, but then he huffed with a little smile.

“Okay, fine. But what kind of a present?”

“...Any present you will like if we're done with shooting today. It’s only your scenes that we need to shoot out.”

“...F... fine.”

...He wasn’t happy, don’t get the wrong idea! And he wasn’t thinking about the present he will ask of Kiku. He was focused on these embarrassing scenes of looking into the camera, being all cute and “tsundere”. And, thank god, he actually made it before the end of the day. Moreover, with him ending this hell of shooting, Kiku and Arthur were free for... well, another two days, maybe. Because their agencies needed to get ready for promotions, they needed to get more photoshoots with their soon to be out single and– they needed a name. A name for their unit, since Arthur and Kiku actually have gotten closer. They could... call themselves friends, probably.

*

The naming wasn’t left for them, sadly. They could only look at this strange “Islandol” that now, apparently, was their unit name. Kirkland didn’t like it, but it wasn’t like he could come up with anything better. And anyway, that was because... Kiku was from Japan and Arthur was from the UK, right? Both of their homeland countries were islands, and that’s why... they’re and “island idols”, or “Islandol” for short.

...Still, it’s not like he was fond of being called an idol. He wasn’t fond of it, but– Kiku was smiling. He was happy of them ending up as the cross-agencies unit, that was a miracle itself. Probably it was for the fact that Kiku’s agency was a sister agency to Arthur’s. But it was even better this way – there almost were no problems. ...Probably. At least no problem came up until this point.

“So... Islandols we are, huh?”

“Mhm.” “...You... like it?” “Oh... uhm... I think I do. ...But, I will be honest. I would like any naming, as long as it would be for our unit.”

“Huh? Any? Even if we would’ve been called something like– uh... let me come up with something cringey...”

“Fu-fu. I will like it anyway.”

“Why?” “Because it will be your naming idea.” “...Pfft. Okay, I can’t win against you when you’re saying something this cute.”

“...Cute?”

And then Arthur freezed. “Cute” wasn’t the word he intended to use, but– it just naturally slipped out of his mouth. Really, he... didn’t mean it! But, at the same time– it was true. Kiku was... is cute. Especially with this light blush that happened to stain his pretty skin. But he didn't know what to answer, actually. He was... lost. That’s why he stepped back a little, smiling nervously.

“It’s... n-nothing.”

Kiku stepped one step closer.

“Really?” “Re– really!”

“...Bo-o-o.”

“...Eh?”

Kiku smiled mischievously, turning around. 

“I said ‘bo-o-o’, Arthur-san. I hope you will get me a pudding to apologize?”

“I– eh... w... what...?” “Fu-fu.”

...Pudding it is then, eh...?