#agile 2018 | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

mononijikayu · 1 year ago

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so high school ! — itadori yuuji.

Yuuji chuckled, his laughter mingling with yours in the quiet of the room. "Yeah, I guess I was pretty excited to become a jujutsu sorcerer. It gave me some purpose, y’know?" he admitted, his expression softening with nostalgia. "But meeting you was definitely the best part of that day. You were smiling at me and I just think it made me happy!”

GENRE: cursed womb arc, 2018;

WARNING/S: alternate universe - canon convergence, actors au, friends, friends to lovers, domesticity, fluff, romance, humor, first love, first love, flirting, slice of life;

LISTEN: so high school by taylor swift

NOTE: i wrote this inspired by a friend's idea and here it is. i love yuuji so much guys. he deserves so much good things in life. seeing him suffer in the manga, i think this is where he belongs - shojo </3

masterlist

kayu's playlist — side 700;

YOU WONDER IF YOU WERE BEING TOO OBVIOUS. It was a typical day at Jujutsu High, filled with training, missions, and the occasional life-or-death encounter. But for you, there was something—or rather, someone—who made every day feel like high school all over again. That someone was Itadori Yuuji.

Every time you looked at Itadori Yuuji, you felt a flutter in your chest, a sense of nervous excitement that reminded you of teenage crushes and awkward confessions. Today was no different. As you sat in the training yard, pretending to read a book, you couldn't help but sneak glances at him. He was sparring with Megumi, his movements fluid and powerful, each strike and dodge a testament to his strength and agility. But what caught your attention even more were the brief moments when his gaze would flicker towards you.

Your heart would skip a beat each time, and you'd quickly hide behind your book, cheeks burning with embarrassment. It was almost comical how transparent you felt, as if everyone around could see the obvious attraction you had for Yuuji. The pages of your book blurred as you tried to focus on the words, but your mind kept drifting back to the way Yuuji moved, the determination in his eyes, and the infectious smile that seemed to light up the entire training yard.

The day carried on with its usual routines, but you found it increasingly difficult to concentrate. Your thoughts were consumed by Yuuji, his laughter echoing in your ears, his encouraging words to Megumi resonating within you. It was as if he had a gravitational pull that you couldn't escape, drawing you in closer with each passing moment.

"I feel so high school every time I look at you," you muttered to yourself, watching him through the pages. You sighed. “Why is he so pretty? It’s hard not to look. Not fair.”

During a break in the sparring session, Yuuji caught your eye and grinned, wiping sweat from his brow. Your heart fluttered wildly, and you ducked your head, pretending to be engrossed in your book. But the heat in your cheeks betrayed you, and you knew your efforts to remain inconspicuous were futile.

"Hey!" Yuuji called out, making his way over to you. Your heart pounded in your chest, the book trembling slightly in your hands. When you finally dared to look up, he was standing right in front of you, his smile warm and inviting.

"O-oh! Hi, Yuuji," you managed to say, your voice barely above a whisper. The proximity made your nerves dance on edge. You smiled tensely, hiding your book. “W-what’s up?”

"Taking a break from training?" he asked, his tone casual but his eyes searching yours with a curious intensity. You nodded, unable to form a coherent sentence as the fluttering in your chest intensified.

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, already sitting down beside you. The sudden closeness made your breath hitch, and you could feel the heat radiating from his body. You nodded again, feeling utterly helpless in the face of his charm.

For a moment, the world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you in the quiet corner of the training yard. The awkwardness of high school crushes came rushing back, but this time, there was an undeniable connection, a spark that made you hope that maybe, just maybe, Yuuji felt the same way.

As he settled in beside you, Yuuji turned his head and looked at you with that disarming smile. "You know….." he began, his voice soft but clear, "I've noticed you watching me during training."

Your cheeks burned hotter, and you stammered, "I-I was just... um, I mean..."

He chuckled, a warm, comforting sound that made your heart flutter even more. "It's okay!" he said, his gaze gentle and understanding. "I've been watching you too."

The admission hung in the air, a silent confession that seemed to bridge the gap between you. The flutter in your chest transformed into a steady, hopeful beat, and for the first time, you allowed yourself to believe that this nervous excitement might lead to something wonderful.

The awkward silence that followed his words felt charged with potential. You could see the sincerity in Yuuji's eyes, the same nervous anticipation mirrored in his expression. He shifted slightly, his shoulder brushing against yours, and the contact sent a jolt of electricity through you.

"So….." he began, his voice a little hesitant. He looked a bit flustered, ears slightly red. "Do you want to maybe... train together sometime? Or just hang out? I mean, if you're not too busy or anything."

Your heart soared at his suggestion, the idea of spending more time with him sending waves of happiness through you. "I'd like that." you replied, your voice steadier than before. "I'd like that a lot."

Yuuji's face lit up with a smile that made your heart skip a beat. "Great! How about after today's session? We could grab something to eat and then maybe... I don't know, just talk?"

"That sounds perfect," you said, unable to keep the smile off your face.

For the rest of the training session, it was hard to concentrate. Every glance Yuuji sent your way, every encouraging word, seemed to stoke the fire of excitement and anticipation. When the final sparring round ended, you quickly packed up your things, your mind racing with the possibilities of what the evening might bring.

Yuuji met you at the edge of the training yard, his eyes sparkling with the same excitement you felt. "Ready to go?" he asked, his voice full of warmth and eagerness.

"Absolutely," you replied, feeling a thrill of anticipation.

As you walked together through the campus of Jujutsu High, the conversation flowed easily, a mix of lighthearted banter and more serious topics. Yuuji's laughter was infectious, his stories captivating, and you found yourself opening up to him in ways you hadn't expected.

At a small, cozy café just outside the campus, you both ordered your favorite meals and settled into a booth. The atmosphere was relaxed, the soft hum of conversation around you creating a comfortable backdrop for your own exchange.

"So, tell me," Yuuji said, leaning forward with genuine interest, "What made you join Jujutsu High? What's your story?"

You hesitated for a moment, but the openness in his expression encouraged you to share. "Well, it's a bit complicated," you began, tracing the rim of your cup with your finger. "I lost someone important to me to a curse. It changed my life, and I realized I wanted to prevent that from happening to others. So, I trained and eventually found my way here."

Yuuji nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "I get it. Losing someone can be... really hard. But it's amazing that you turned that pain into something positive. You're helping others, and that's really inspiring."

His words touched you deeply, and you felt a connection with him that went beyond mere attraction. "What about you?" you asked, wanting to know more about the person who had become such an important part of your daily thoughts.

Yuuji's face grew more serious, but he maintained his warm demeanor. "It's a long story, but basically, I got involved with curses because of something I found—a cursed object. It led me here, and now I'm doing my best to make a difference, just like you."

You nodded, feeling a deeper connection with him. "I'm really sorry about your loss, Yuuji," you said softly, your eyes meeting his. "It must have been so hard."

Yuuji's expression softened, and he gave you a reassuring smile. "It's okay," he said, his voice gentle. "I'm okay now because I've met people who make it better, who make me feel like I belong. People like you."

His words touched your heart, filling you with a warmth that seemed to chase away the lingering shadows of your own past. "Thank you, Yuuji," you said, your voice barely above a whisper. "That means a lot to me."

As the evening passed in a blur of conversation and laughter, you found yourselves delving into various topics, from favorite foods to shared interests. At one point, the conversation turned to the latest human earth work movie series, a topic that you both shared a passion for.

"I can't believe how intense the latest installment was. Like, it was just crazy!" you remarked, excitement lacing your voice. "The plot twists about the doctor had me on the edge of my seat the entire time."

Yuuji nodded in agreement, a grin spreading across his face. "I know, right? And the special effects were mind-blowing! It felt like I was right there in the middle of the action. It was crazy!”

As you walked side by side through the quiet campus, the night sky above you filled with twinkling stars, the bond between you felt stronger than ever. The shared moments of laughter that had brought you closer together made your heart beat over and over against your chest.. With each step, you felt a sense of warmth and contentment wash over you, grateful for what Yuuji brought into your life.

When you reached the dormitory entrance, Yuuji turned to you, his expression soft and earnest. "Tonight was really great, y’know!" he said. "I had a lot of fun, and I hope we can do this again."

"Me too," you replied, your heart full. "I'd love that."

He smiled, and for a moment, it seemed like he might say something more. But instead, he simply took your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Goodnight," he said softly, his voice filled with warmth.

"Goodnight, Yuuji," you replied, squeezing his hand back before reluctantly letting go.

You wanted to look back towards him.

And you were sure that he was going to.

You wanted to continue drinking what he thinks.

You wanted to be high on his jokes all damn night.

Back inside, you squealed behind your door, blushing.

You just felt so high school when you were with him.

YOU WERE TOO EXHAUSTED TO MAKE A SOUND. It had been a couple of days later after you went out with him. It’s been a while since you had gone through a mission — so you feel like you’ve been out of practice. You can only think that’s the reason why you ended up feeling rusty as you fought the curses.

You could only sigh as you returned from a particularly grueling mission, each step heavier than the last. There was some regret on your part, you were sure. You thought you’d do better than last time. But you only feel defeated. Still, the job was done. You had to put everything that happened behind you now. You wouldn’t be able to move forward as a sorcerer if you keep thinking about it. Well, that’s what Gojo–sensei says.

Exhausted and bruised, you made your way back to Jujutsu High, longing for the familiar comfort of your room and the solace of a hot shower. Despite the fatigue that weighed heavily on your shoulders, a part of you couldn't help but hope for a glimpse of Itadori Yuuji. You had been texting each other these past few days while you were gone on back-to-back missions.

Those messages had kept your spirits up, knowing that someone was cheering you on, that someone was waiting for you to come home. His words of encouragement and light-hearted jokes had been a lifeline, making the long nights a little less lonely and the dangerous encounters a little less daunting. The thought of seeing him again was a bright spot in your otherwise wearied mind. It felt like the sun was finally returning in your life after days of only the cold dauntless gray clouds.

As you trudged down the corridor towards your quarters, you heard a familiar, cheerful voice calling your name. You turned to see Yuuji jogging towards you, his face lighting up with a broad smile as he approached. The sight of him was like a balm to your weary soul, and you felt a surge of warmth spread through you. You couldn’t help but smile back at him too as you waved at him.

"You're back!" Yuuji exclaimed, stopping just in front of you. You could see his energy peak as he smiled at you. You think you still had some time getting used to it. "How did the mission go? Are you okay? I hope you aren’t too sore, like you know!”

You managed a tired smile. "It was tough, but I'm fine. Just really tired."

Yuuji's expression softened with concern. "You look exhausted. Come on, let's get you back to your dorm room! You need rest!”

Without waiting for your reply, he gently took your arm, his touch firm yet gentle as he guided you towards your quarters. The warmth of his hand on your arm sent a comforting sensation coursing through you, like a reassuring anchor in the midst of a storm. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes, reminding you that you weren't alone in this.

As you walked together, his presence beside you was a steady source of support. The weight of exhaustion and the memories of the mission still lingered, but somehow, they felt lighter with him by your side. He kept the conversation light, his words a soothing balm to your weary soul.

Instead of probing into the details of the mission, he asked about your well-being in a way that allowed you to share as much or as little as you wanted. It was a subtle yet profound display of empathy, a testament to his understanding of what you needed in that moment.

With each step, you felt yourself relaxing, the tension in your shoulders easing as you basked in the warmth of his presence. It was as if the weight of the world had been lifted off your shoulders, replaced by a sense of calm and serenity. In that moment, surrounded by the comforting embrace of his care and concern, you felt safe, cherished, and deeply grateful for his unwavering support.

When you finally reached your room, Yuuji insisted on helping you inside. He looked around, spotting the kitchenette. "Why don't you sit down and rest? You must be hungry now, right? I'll make you something to eat."

You protested weakly, but the truth was that you were too tired to argue. With a grateful nod, you sank onto your bed, watching as Yuuji moved around your small kitchen with surprising ease. In no time, he had whipped up a simple but hearty meal. The aroma alone made your stomach rumble, and you realized just how hungry you were.

"Here you go," he said, bringing a steaming bowl of soba over to you. He grins at you with a thumbs up. "Eat up. It'll help you feel better."

As you took the bowl from him, your fingers naturally brushed against his in the process, sending a subtle yet unmistakable jolt of electricity coursing through you. It was a fleeting touch, but it sparked something deep within you, a warmth that spread from your fingertips to the very core of your being. The simple act of sharing a meal with Yuuji felt oddly intimate, like a silent affirmation of the bond that existed between you.

As you ate, Yuuji remained beside you, his presence a constant source of comfort and reassurance. He didn't need to say anything; his mere presence was enough to ease the fatigue and tension that had built up during the mission. With each passing moment, you found yourself relaxing more, the weight of the world gradually lifting from your shoulders.

Unbeknownst to you, Yuuji's gaze never wavered from you. You don’t think you’ll ever see something more profound than him looking at you. The way he looked at you was something you didn't notice, too lost in your own thoughts and the exhaustion that still lingered. But to him, it was everything.

His eyes spoke volumes, filled with a tenderness and depth of emotion that words could never fully capture. In that moment, as he watched you eat, he felt an overwhelming sense of love and contentment wash over him. It was the most tender expression he could offer, a silent declaration of his unwavering affection and devotion to you.

After you finished eating, your energy replenished and your spirits lifted, Yuuji reached for the bowl, his movements fluid and graceful. With a gentle touch, he took it from you, his fingers brushing against yours once again in a fleeting caress. It was a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes, conveying a sense of care and consideration that warmed your heart.

Setting the bowl aside, Yuuji turned back to you, his gaze soft and attentive. There was a quiet intensity in his eyes, a depth of emotion that made your breath catch in your throat. In that moment, as you looked into each other's eyes, it felt as though time stood still. There was a silent understanding between you, a bond that transcended words and spoke directly to the heart.

With a tender smile, Yuuji reached out to take your hand in his, his touch gentle yet reassuring. It was a gesture of comfort, a silent reminder that you were not alone. In his presence, you found solace, a sense of peace that washed over you like a gentle wave. Together, you sat in companionable silence, the warmth of his hand in yours a comforting anchor in the midst of the storm. But soon, Yuuji broke that silence.

"Feel better?" he asked, his bright eyes searching for yours, softness in his eyes.

You nodded, feeling a sense of contentment settle over you. "Yeah, much better. Thank you, Yuuji. You didn't have to do all this."

He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I wanted to. Besides, I missed you."

His admission made your heart flutter. "I missed you too, you know." you confessed, your voice barely above a whisper.

Yuuji's expression grew with relief, his eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that made your breath catch.

"I'm glad you're back safe, hm?" he said softly. "I was worried about you. I kept texting, telling you what I’ve been doing while you were away. I don’t think they were getting through!”

You couldn’t help but giggle at him. He was adorable. “There just wasn’t any signal. You know, you could send the pictures again if you want.”

He grinned wider. “Would you like to see them?”

“Yeah, send them to me.” You nodded, smiling back just as widely. “I’ll look at them!”

For a moment, the exhaustion and bruises of the mission faded away, replaced by the warmth of his gaze and the sincerity in his voice. He kept telling you about places he ate along with Gojo–sensei, things he, Kugisaki and Fushiguro took pictures of. You felt comfort in knowing that his voice was always as tender and warm as a hug. The connection between you felt stronger than ever, and you knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, you would face them together.

"Thank you," you said again, reaching out to take his hand. "For everything."

Yuuji squeezed your hand gently, his touch reassuring and grounding. "Anytime," he replied, his voice full of promise.

As you sat together, the room filled with a comfortable silence, you realized that this was where you belonged. With Yuuji by your side, you felt ready to face whatever the future held, knowing that you had someone who cared for you deeply and would stand by you no matter what.

As the peaceful silence enveloped you both, Yuuji broke it with a soft chuckle. "You know," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of amusement, "Whenever I'm with you….I just feel like I'm young.”

You turned to him, giggling. "Younger days? Yuuji, we’re in high school!”

He nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, exactly. Like it’s meant to be, y’know? It's like all the worries and responsibilities just melt away, and I'm free to be myself. Like we’re finally kids.”

You couldn't help but smile at his words, feeling a warmth spread through you at the thought of being able to bring Yuuji a sense of youthful joy and freedom. "I'm glad I can help you feel that way," you replied sincerely. "Being with you makes me feel the same, you know?”

You looked at him tenderly for a second.

The same shine in his eyes as he looked back.

You felt your lips echo into bright beaming laughter.

You both felt bittersweet sixteen all of a sudden.

But that was alright, when the two of you were together.

IT HAD BEEN MONTHS SINCE YOU BOTH STARTED GOING OUT. As the days turned into weeks, your bond with Yuuji only seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment. Every date, every shared meal, every laughter-filled conversation only served to deepen the connection between you. It was as if you were caught in a whirlwind of emotions, unable to resist the magnetic pull drawing you closer together.

Yet, despite the undeniable chemistry between you, there remained an unspoken understanding that neither of you had ever explicitly labeled your relationship. It was a silent agreement that hung between you, a delicate balance that you were both hesitant to disrupt.

You often found yourself grappling with the question of how to broach the subject with Yuuji. Each time you considered bringing it up, the words seemed to stick in your throat, weighed down by the fear of ruining what you had. You feared the uncertainty that came with putting a label on things, worried that it might change the dynamic between you or worse, lead to disappointment.

But even as you wrestled with your doubts and insecurities, there was an undeniable truth that lingered in the back of your mind. You knew deep down that your feelings for Yuuji went beyond mere friendship, that there was something more between you that defied easy categorization.

So for now, you thought to yourself that you were content to savor the moments you shared, cherishing each stolen glance, each tender touch, each whispered conversation as if it were a precious gift. And as you navigated the uncharted waters of your relationship with Yuuji, you couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement mingled with apprehension, wondering what the future held for the two of you.

After an exhausting training session that left you feeling drained both physically and mentally, Yuuji's hopeful smile was like a beacon of light in the darkness. His eyes held a spark of excitement as he turned to you, the corners of his lips upturned in a gentle smile that melted away the fatigue weighing on your shoulders.

As you caught his gaze, a wave of warmth washed over you, chasing away the lingering remnants of exhaustion. It was moments like these that made all the hard work and effort worth it, knowing that you had someone like Yuuji by your side to share in both the triumphs and the challenges of your journey.

Despite the aches and pains that throbbed through your body, the promise of spending time with him filled you with renewed energy and anticipation. You couldn't help but return his smile, your heart skipping a beat at the thought of the memories you would create together.

In that fleeting moment, as you locked eyes with Yuuji, everything else faded away—the worries, the doubts, the uncertainties—all replaced by a sense of warmth and belonging. It was a reminder that no matter what trials lay ahead, as long as you had each other, it was going to be alright.

“Hey, pretty!” He walks up to you, smiling brightly like the sun. “You’re done practicing for the day?”

“Yeah.” You whisper, trying to calm down. He was so cute, you might lose it. “But I’m just going to clean up.”

“Oh? Let me help you!”

“Ah, Yuu, it’s fine—”

“Eh? But how could I let my pretty love just clean up by themselves like this?” He grins at you as he starts picking up the weapons you just trained with. “Let me help you, hm?”

As he busied himself with the task, you couldn't help but feel a swell of affection for him. It was the little things he did that made you fall for him more and more each day. The way he always looked out for you, ensuring you were okay after missions, the way he made you laugh with his silly jokes, and the way he was always there, offering support and comfort without expecting anything in return.

Yuuji looked up and caught you staring, his grin widening. "What are you thinking about?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.

You shook your head, a smile playing on your lips. "Just thinking about how lucky I am to have you," you admitted, feeling a warmth spread through your chest.

He laughed, a joyful sound that made your heart flutter. "I'm the lucky one," he said, walking over to you and gently taking your hand. "You've made everything so much better."

His words were simple, but they held a depth of emotion that touched you deeply. You squeezed his hand, feeling a surge of gratitude and love for the boy who had become your everything.

In the quiet moments like these, you often find yourself reflecting on how much Yuuji meant to you. He was the one who made you feel seen and cherished, the one who made even the hardest days bearable. His love was a constant, unwavering force that filled your life with joy and hope.

"Thank you, Yuu." you said softly, turning scarlet red."For everything."

He smiled, his eyes full of warmth and affection. "Always." he replied, pulling you into a gentle hug. "I'll always be here for you."

You’re still not used to calling Yuuji by your new nickname but your relationship leveled up to the comfort of him calling you with adorable nicknames. You think that his name was already beautiful as it was, but you found him pouting about it and you felt your heart break — you realized it was that important to him. You could only sigh as you remembered the day

After the exhausting days of missions and the comforting time spent together, you and Yuuji decided to hang out in his room, away from the stresses of the outside world. Yuuji had suggested playing video games, a perfect way to unwind and just enjoy each other's company.

His room was cozy, filled with the typical teenage clutter of books, clothes, and gaming gear. You both settled on the floor in front of his TV, controllers in hand, ready to dive into the latest game he had been raving about.

As the game loaded, Yuuji looked over at you with an eager grin. "Ready to get your butt kicked?" he teased, his eyes sparkling with playful competitiveness.

You rolled your eyes, laughing. "We'll see about that, Yuu."

The moment the nickname slipped out, you saw a change in his expression. His eyes widened slightly, and then his entire face lit up with the most genuine smile you'd ever seen. He looked at you with a mixture of surprise and happiness, almost like a golden retriever who had just been given a treat.

"Yuu?" he repeated, his voice filled with delight. "Did you just call me Yuu?"

You nodded, feeling a bit shy under his intense gaze. "Yeah, I did. It suits you, don't you think? Plus, it sounds like I'm saying you belong to me."

His cheeks flushed a light pink, and he looked down, rubbing the back of his neck. "I like it," he said softly. "No one's ever given me a nickname before. And if it means I belong to you, then I like it even more."

You felt your own cheeks heat up at his words, but there was a warmth spreading through your chest that made you smile. "Good. Because you do belong to me, Yuu."

He looked back up at you, his eyes filled with a tender emotion that made your heart skip a beat. "And you belong to me," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "We're in this together, right?"

You nodded, feeling a deep sense of connection and belonging with him. "Together," you agreed.

With that, the moment passed, and you both turned your attention back to the game. The playful banter resumed, with Yuuji occasionally glancing at you with that same joyful expression every time you called him by his new nickname. It was a small thing, but it meant the world to him.

As the game progressed, you found yourselves laughing, teasing, and enjoying each other's company in a way that felt so natural and right. The world outside might be full of dangers and challenges, but here, in this small room, with Yuuji by your side, everything felt perfect.

At one point, during a particularly intense part of the game, Yuuji turned to you with a playful smirk. "Come on, Yuu," you said, trying to keep up with him. "Stop hogging all the power-ups!"

He laughed, the sound warm and infectious. "Only if you can catch me, Yuu!" he challenged, making you laugh even harder.

Time seemed to fly by as you played, and before you knew it, hours had passed. When you finally put the controllers down, exhausted but happy, you leaned back against the bed, Yuuji flopping down beside you.

"That was fun," he said, his voice filled with contentment. "Thanks for spending time with me."

You turned to him, your heart swelling with affection. "Anytime, Yuu. Anytime."

He looked at you, his eyes shining with gratitude and something deeper. "You're the best," he said softly, reaching out to take your hand in his. "I'm so glad you're here with me."

You squeezed his hand, feeling the same way. "Me too, Yuu. Me too."

Once he carries your used weapons, he hums a light tune, moving with an ease that belied the intensity of your earlier training session. His cheerfulness was like a soothing balm, easing the weariness from your bones. You followed behind him, your heart swelling with affection and a touch of awe. How could he always be so full of life, so effortlessly kind and giving?

You could only sigh, a small smile tugging at your lips. You were too far gone when it came to Yuuji. His presence had become a constant source of joy and comfort in your life, and you found yourself longing for these moments more and more.

As you trailed behind him, your thoughts wandered. You thought about how Yuuji had always been there for you, how he had a way of making even the darkest days seem brighter. He had a unique ability to lift your spirits with just a smile or a kind word. His love and care were unwavering, and you often found yourself marveling at how deeply you had come to rely on him.

Reaching the storage area, Yuuji carefully placed the weapons in their designated spots. He turned to you, still humming, his eyes alight with that familiar spark of happiness. "There we go, all set!" he said, dusting off his hands. "Now, what do you want to do next?"

Before you could answer, he added with a grin, "Actually, I was thinking... Megumi, Nobara, and I were planning to watch a movie later. Want to join us? It'll be fun!"

His invitation caught you off guard, but the excitement in his eyes was contagious. "A movie?" you echoed, your curiosity piqued.

"Yeah!" Yuuji nodded enthusiastically. "We were thinking of watching something light and funny. It's been a while since we've all just hung out together and relaxed, you know? And honestly, it wouldn't be the same without you."

As Yuuji's words washed over you, a rush of excitement surged through your veins, making your heart skip a beat. His bright eyes sparkled with anticipation, and you couldn't help but feel a flutter of nerves as you met his gaze. He looked so cute, so effortlessly charming, and you couldn't help but be drawn to him like a moth to a flame.

"Movie night in your dorm room sounds perfect, Yuu!" you replied, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips as you tried to contain the joy bubbling within you. "I'd love to join! It sounds like a lot of fun."

As you spoke, you couldn't help but notice the way Yuuji's smile seemed to grow even brighter, as if your enthusiasm was contagious. It was moments like these that made you realize just how much you enjoyed his company, how much you looked forward to every opportunity to be near him.

Yuuji's face lit up with a wide smile, his eyes shining with delight. "Awesome! It'll be great to have you with us, pretty!”

"Do I need to bring anything tonight?" you asked, trying to hide the nervous flutter in your stomach behind a casual tone. “Food, drinks, DVDs? Anything?”

Yuuji shook his head, his smile never faltering. "No, just bring yourself!" he replied, his voice warm and inviting. It was a simple gesture, but it filled you with a sense of comfort and reassurance, as if he were silently assuring you that everything would be okay as long as you were together. “You’re more than enough! ‘on’t worry about it, pretty!”

You felt scarlet heat all across your cheeks. With a shy nod, you couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth at Yuuji's words. As you watched him, a wave of affection washed over you, filling your chest with a sense of contentment. Despite the uncertainty that lingered in the back of your mind, there was a part of you that felt at peace whenever you were with him.

As the evening approached and the sun dipped below the horizon, you found yourself eagerly anticipating the movie night ahead. With a quick goodbye to Kugisaki and Fushiguro, you made your way to Yuuji's dorm room, your heart racing with excitement.

You think you can’t really help it.

Yuuji just has a way with you, you know?

He’s too good for the world, too good for you.

How were you this lucky with him, to be with him?

As you stepped into Yuuji's dorm room, the warm glow of the evening light bathed the space in a soft, inviting ambiance. Yuuji stood by the entrance, a smile playing at the corners of his lips as his eyes met yours.

"Pretty, you made it!" he greeted, his voice filled with genuine excitement.

"Hey, Yuu!" you replied, feeling your ears turn red as you returned his smile. "Wouldn't miss it for the world."

His smile widened at your words, a warm glow spreading across his features. "Glad to hear it," he said, stepping aside to let you in.

The sight of him filled you with a sense of warmth and comfort, and you couldn't help but feel a rush of affection for him. It was moments like these, simple yet significant, that made you grateful for his presence in your life. As you settled into the room, you greeted Kugisaki and Fushiguro, who were already there, with warm smiles and friendly gestures.

"Hey, guys!" you exclaimed, waving at them.

“Glad you can make it!” Kugisaki waved back with a tender smile, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she welcomed you. She patted the seat next to her. “Come here!”

"Hey," Fushiguro greeted in his usual calm tone, nodding in acknowledgment.

Despite the differences in their reactions, you felt a sense of belonging among the three of them. It was moments like these, surrounded by friends who cared for you, that made you feel grateful for the bonds you had formed at Jujutsu High.

Later, as Yuuji made popcorn, Kugisaki approached you with a curious expression. "So, what's going on between you and Yuuji?" she asked bluntly, her tone betraying a hint of mischief.

“W-what do you mean?”

“Like, you know? You guys are dating!”

“Yeah, we are…”

“But what is it like? Are you labeling it soon?”

Your heart skipped a beat, caught off guard by her directness. You glanced nervously at Fushiguro, hoping he would intervene, but he remained silent, watching the exchange with a guarded expression. He was always hard to read, but you knew he seemed interested too.

"I-I don't know," you stammered, feeling a surge of panic rising within you. "We're just... friends, I guess."

Kugisaki raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced by your response. "Hmm, really?" she teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Because it seems like there's something more going on between you two."

You felt your cheeks flush with embarrassment, struggling to find the right words to explain the complexity of your relationship with Yuuji. Before you could respond, Fushiguro stepped in, his voice firm and authoritative.

"Kugisaki, that's enough," Fushiguro said sternly, his tone brooking no argument. "It's not your place to pry into other people's personal lives. Let them deal with that and tell us.”

"Sorry, sorry," Kugisaki muttered, holding her hands up in surrender. She looks at you apologetically, seeing how uncomfortable you are. "I’m sorry. I was just curious, you know? But I'll drop it."

“It’s okay.” You say, a small smile echoing at your lips as you three went back to watch. “Don’t worry about it.”

“Okay, I’m back!” Yuuji says, grinning as he holds the bowl of popcorn in one hand. “Butter flavor!”

“You’re so loud!” Kugisaki retorts back as she points to the television. “I’m trying to watch the movie!”

“But aren’t you the one screaming at me?” Yuuji furrows his brows back at her.

Fushiguro frowns slightly. “Can the two of you just shut up?”

As the movie resumed and the room filled with the sound of the film playing, you couldn't shake the lingering question in your mind. What were you and Yuuji together? Were you just friends, or was there something more between you? The uncertainty gnawed at you, leaving you restless despite the comforting familiarity of Yuuji's presence beside you.

Glancing sideways at him, you noticed the way the soft glow of the screen illuminated his features, casting shadows and highlights across his face. He seemed completely engrossed in the movie, his eyes focused on the screen, but you couldn't shake the feeling that he was aware of your internal turmoil.

Lost in your thoughts, you absently reached for a handful of popcorn, but your mind was elsewhere. The warmth of Yuuji's hand brushing against yours sent a jolt of electricity through you, pulling you back to the present moment. Turning to him, you caught his eye, and for a brief moment, you saw a flicker of understanding in his gaze.

It was as if he could sense the unspoken question hanging between you, the silent tension that lingered beneath the surface. And yet, neither of you dared to voice it aloud, afraid of what the answer might be. But as the movie played on and the night wore on, you couldn't help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, it was time to have that conversation.

The movie eventually ended, leaving the room bathed in the soft glow of the screen's credits. The lingering silence between you and Yuuji felt heavy, pregnant with unspoken words and unexplored emotions. You stole a glance at him, noticing the way his features softened in the dim light, his eyes reflecting a mixture of exhaustion and contentment.

Taking a deep breath, you summoned the courage to break the silence. "Yuu," you began, your voice barely above a whisper. "Can we talk for a moment?"

Yuuji turned to you, his expression curious but open. "Yeah, of course," he replied, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Got s’mthing on your mind?”

You hesitated for a moment, unsure of where to start. The words felt heavy on your tongue, each syllable weighted with the uncertainty of the unknown. But you knew that you couldn't continue to avoid the conversation any longer.

"I've been thinking..." you trailed off, searching for the right words. "About us. I mean, what are we, Yuu?"

Yuuji's brow furrowed slightly, his gaze thoughtful as he considered your question. "I've been wondering the same thing," he admitted, his voice tinged with vulnerability. "I mean, we spend so much time together, and we’re dating….. I care about you a lot."

A rush of relief washed over you at his words, knowing that you weren't alone in your confusion. "I care about you too, Yuu." you confessed, your heart swelling with emotion. "More than I can put into words."

Yuuji reached out, his hand finding yours in the darkness. "Then maybe we don't need to put a label on it," he suggested, his touch warm and reassuring. "Maybe we can just... see where things go, together. Enjoy each other, y’know? We’re still young and we are happy, so….”

With a soft smile, you nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I’d like that." you said, feeling a sense of warmth spread through you. “Very much, Yuu.”

As the tension lifted, the atmosphere in the room became lighter, filled with a sense of newfound understanding and acceptance. You shifted closer to Yuuji, relishing the comforting warmth of his presence as you leaned against him.

"Hey, do you remember that time we first met?" Yuuji asked suddenly, breaking the silence with a playful glint in his eye.

A fond smile tugged at your lips as you recalled the memory. "How could I forget?" you replied, laughter bubbling up inside you. "You were so full of energy, I thought you were going to burst!"

Your heart fluttered at his words, a rush of affection washing over you. "I feel the same way, Yuu." you confessed, reaching up to brush a stray lock of hair from his face. "You've brought so much joy and excitement into my life, Yuu."

His gaze softened, his eyes reflecting the depth of his emotions. "And you've brought so much warmth and kindness into mine, pretty." he replied, his voice filled with sincerity. “I’d love more and more.”

In that moment, as you sat together in the quiet intimacy of the room, you knew that no matter where life took you, you would always have each other. And as you leaned into Yuuji's embrace, you felt a sense of peace settle over you, knowing that together, you could face whatever challenges lay ahead, hand in hand.

And suddenly, you think, in a blink of a crinkling eye.

You were just both sinking, with your fingers entwined.

Your cheeks were just lovingly pink in the twinkling lights.

All night, he tells you about the first time he saw you again.

Happily, not bitterly this time, suddenly, sweet sixteen.

Everything, from then and now, truly feels so high school.

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letsgetrowdy43 · 1 year ago

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Not strong enough (Rowan's Version)—

reader x usntdp u18 2018-19 team

Based on the song "Not Strong Enough" by Boy Genius

Warnings: Sexism & Men (they deserve the tw)

Ro's 1000 follower celly

Au Masterlist!!

"Black hole opened in the kitchen, every clock's a different time. It would only take the energy to fix it, I don't know why I am"

“She’s the glue,” Jack grinned and looked over to Cole who smiled back at him, “every team has that person who keeps the group together, and for us, she’s that person.” “She’s our everything really” Trevor interjected as the interviewer nodded her head.

The woman wore a red blazer, in her hands were a few cue cards, messy handwriting full of questions covered the tiny pieces of paper as she grinned at the boys sitting on the couch in front of her.

“How about her game? Explain it to me,” she smiled as Alex sat up. “She’s electric, elegant almost with how agile she is,” the other boys nodded, “her IQ is above all, and her playmaking is so effortless.”

“We wouldn’t be half the team without her,” Cole added. “These accomplishments are because of her, none of these records or wins would’ve happened if she wasn’t in that locker room,” Jack finishes off the interview with a grin as the camera shuts off and the industrial lighting goes out.

“That was an amazing boys, thank you,” the cameraman and director said as he shooed the boys out of the room.

★★

"The way I am, not strong enough to be your man, I try, I can't stop staring at the ceiling fan and, spinning out about things that haven't happened. Breathing in and out"

Y/n watched her interview with tears, a huff leaving her lips as she stared at the ceiling in defeat. “What about the boys? You find them cute?” The woman in the red blazer said with a chuckle.

The cue cards of in-depth questions were nowhere to be seen as the teenage girl sat on the couch in her Team USA jersey. Embarrassment filled her face as she looked behind the camera to see the direct, wondering how on earth this question was even real.

“These boys are like my brothers,” she smiled, tone a little peeved as she stared at her hands, “they are my team, the ones I go to battle for.” A semi smile worked its way into her face as she thought back to the past years with the boys, and how life-changing this team has been for her and for her game, “on the ice we are dynamic, and off the ice, they are my best friends,” she answered honestly

That’s about as far as she could make it into the video before having to turn it off.

The boys received such beautiful questions and were given the opportunity to share such meaningful words. While on the other hand, she was painted out to be some narrative

It was total bullshit.

★★

"Drag racing through the canyon, singing "Boys Don't Cry" Do you see us getting scraped up off the pavement? I don't know why I am"

“Give ‘em hell my girl,” was always Ellen’s words to the teen before she stepped on any ice, whether it be a game or a practice. It held such a strong sentiment, and Ellen was such a strong role model in her life.

They were also the first words said to her the moment she got the call inviting her out to the draft combine in Buffalo, her billet mother pulling her into her arms hug as she cried into Ellen’s arms “I’m so proud of you y/n,” she whispered as the tears subsided with the entrance of the boys who had been waiting for this moment.

“Are those good tears or bad tears?” Alex asked as y/n wiped them away. “Good ones,” she croaked as both Jack and Alex lunged at her.

Not only was this the biggest moment of her life, but this was also one of the biggest moments in female hockey history. The first-ever teenage girl prospect in an all-male league, it was overwhelming, but it was the first step in the direction of change.

★★

"The way I am, not strong enough to be your man, I lie, I am just lowering your expectations. Half a mind that keeps the other second-guessing, close my eyes and count"

“A female prospect?” The interviewer mumbled as he looked through his list of draftees. “It’s progressive,” another man with a clipboard mumbled with a shrug as he sipped his coffee.

“It’s unorthodox,” another person mumbled as one of the interns left to go and fetch the girl from the next room over, “politics and sports don’t coexist,” he added causing a few chuckles around the table.

The only female interviewer tapped her pen on the wooden table, her brows raised and her anger levels starting to rise as she looked at all of the men in the room. “You are making decisions for a billion-dollar company, every single decision and movement you make is due to the outcome of the political climate,” she said hastily before the door opened and all of the people in the room stood to greet the young prospect

The older woman’s hand was the first one out for the young girl to shake as she greeted her with a warm smile and a firm handshake. “Please take a seat, we’re so glad to get the chance to sit down with you!”

★★

"Always an angel, never a god. Always an angel, never a god"

Draft day had to of been the most stressful day ever, the NHL reached out a few weeks prior hoping to include her in their “Welcome to NHL” mini-documentary about her experience on the draft day.

Her hand shook as she stared at herself in the mirror, a small smile on her lips as she looked towards the camera. “Ready to make history?” She mumbled as she looked back at herself she fixed her lavender suit jacket.

"Always an angel, never a god. Always an angel, never a god"

Jack pulled her in for a hug as she got down to the bus, his hand cradling the back of her head as he held her tightly, “I can’t believe this is real,” he mumbled as she pulled away with a proud smile.

The second her heels hit that red carpet she was immediately anxious, she spun the gold ring on her thumb as Quinn and her older brother each patted her on the shoulder and sought out to find their designated entrance as she went through the carpet and the media.

“This colour is beautiful,” the interviewer said as she took in the bold outfit. “The man who designed the suit was very adamant that it was my colour,” she mumbled as she unbuttoned the loose-fitting Jacket.

The interviewer grinned, “As most draftees do, are there any little things about this suit that make it personal?” The girl opened her blazer to showcase a listen of names written in a deep shade of violet on the inside of her suit lining, “these are all of the women in my life who have pushed and haven’t received the recognition that they deserve,” her fingers ran over the writing as she smiled.

“These are the women and the role models who have fought for me to be in this place today, and have given me this opportunity to make history,” she nodded and unveiled the other side. A tiny embroidered quote that said “give ‘em hell,” was sewn into the other side, little flowers decorating the message as the interviewer grinned.

“And this is an ode to the woman who went above and beyond, and fought for me to be in this position,” she smiled as the interviewer wished her luck and sent her on her way

"Always an angel, never a god. Always an angel, never a god"

“Hold my hand,” she whispered to her dad, the man pulling the cell phone out of her hand to get her off Twitter for a moment, “people hate me,” she frowned as she looked at her father who shook her head. “People are afraid of change, you are strong you have worked harder than any of the boys in this room,” he whispered as her eyes filled with tears, nodding slowly as she leaned her head against his shoulder, “you are so worthy of greatness, and it'll come when the time is right,” he finished as her attention turned to Gary Bettman who was beginning to walk across the stage.

The boos began, and so did the anxiety.

"Always an angel, never a god. Always an angel, never a god"

One by one her teammates were picked off, proud smiles on her face as they each stopped by her to thank her for everything.

She sent each one of them off with a hug and some choked-up words as they made their way to the stage to live out their dreams. And one by one her dream slowly crumbled, like a glass castle that had been shattered, as the Blues picked their final pick on the second day in the seventh round Y/n felt the emotion rip through her. But instead of cracking, she held her head high and walked out of the arena with the entirety of her family behind her.

The second she was away from the cameras and the fresh air hit her lungs she began to crack.

A sob ripped through her as she sat on the curb, her hands pulling at the roots of her hair, “I was supposed to- I was supposed to make a difference,” she cried as a hand ran over her back. “I'm sorry sweet girl,” Ellen's soft voice sounded as the tears kept coming.

“I worked so much harder than the boys, I trained my ass off, I sat through the sexist interviews, but none of it will ever be enough,” the cries grew louder and louder as she leaned against the woman. “I did everything I could, and I will never meet my dreams,” she said defeated as Ellen held her tightly.

“I know baby, it's unfair, you deserve it just as much as the boys” she whispered, tears staring in her own eyes as she watched the girl who had been a daughter to her shake with a look of distraught on her face.

The girl wiped the underneath of her eyes, her fist finally unclenching as she sniffled, “I will never be enough,” she whispered and looked up to see the photographer taking a photo from across the street too which she just shook her head and sighed.

★★

"I don't know why I am the way I am, there's something in the static, I think I've been having revelations. Comin' to, in the front seat, nearly empty skip the exit to our old street and go home"

The draft had come and gone, and the boys each headed off to the new destinations in their lives. She ended up in Minnesota, as a freshman on the women's hockey team. Division one college hockey had always been on her list of things she wanted to experience, and it was everything she imagined.

It was slow, life slowed right down when she stopped putting that pressure on herself to always be the very best. The girls were sweet, but they knew what she had gone through during the summer, some a little envious, some a little sorrowful to know the struggles that she'd endured in the pursuit of her possible professional career.

The boys called often, to tell her about the little things, shared what their lives now entitled, whether it be in the league, or in university, wanting their favourite girl to know that they were always thinking of her.

Jack was a constant call in her life, a rookie who now carried the burden of being one of the potential greats. "It's really not all as great as they paint it out to be," he mumbled tiredly. It kind of felt like a stab in the heart sometimes, for him to be so ignorant to the pressure she had been other previously and then tell her that maybe she was lucky she would never get to experience the so-called 'torture' he was experiencing.

"Jack, do you know how badly I would kill to be in your shoes right now, to be worthy enough to prove myself to an entire league," she scoffed as the tears started, "do you know how much I wanted that, do you know how much I pushed myself to make it to that draft and then to be turned away after all of that work?" "I know," he sighed. "I don't think you do, 'cause at the end of the day you're calling me to complain about an amazing opportunity," she huffed as she heard the sniffles on the other end, heart squeezing a bit knowing that she was being hard on him.

"I'm sorry, it's just you have such talent, you're just in a slump J," he hummed in agreeance on the other end, "and you're gonna do such amazing things, you just need to push through it." "Should I give 'em hell?" "You need to raise Hell J," she finished her pep talk as he whispered a quiet Thank you and then hung up.

★★

"Go home alone"

She remembers the phone call so clearly, sitting in her dorm in her junior year, moving in only a few days prior as she started to get ready for her classes.

the phone rang twice before she answered the call, and an unknown number appeared on the screen as she stared at the random digits. "Hello?" "Is this Y/n L/n?" "This her," she said with a clear voice, brows furrowed as she held the phone a little away from her face to see if maybe she now recognized the number.

"Great! This is Tom Fitzgerald, GM of the New Jersey Devils," her heart dropped, and she sat up quickly as she looked at her roommate with wide eyes, "we would like to invite you to Jersey for the weekend, Lindy Ruff would like to meet you and have a chat about some sort of deal!" "Of course, I'm free whenever," her hand covered her mouth in shock as she felt the slight tremor of her hands, "thank you for this opportunity Sir," the man hung up the phone as she stared at her screen with wide eyes.

A smile rested on her face as a notification popped up.

My turn to tell you to raise hell! 😈❤️

Jack's number appeared just above the message as she looked up to her roommate. "Holy shit"

Kinda scared to post this 🫣

#⭐️ro's1000followercelly⭐️#neveragodau!!#quinn hughes #jack hughes #luke hughes #umich hockey #trevor zegras #alex turcotte #cole caufield #new jersey devils

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asgoodeasgold · 8 months ago

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A Discovery of Witches Real Time Read 2024 Ch2

Breathtaking perfection

"... vampires are breathtaking, but nothing prepares you to actually see one.

... the most unnerving thing about him was not his physical perfection. It was his feral combination of strength, agility, and keen intelligence that was palpable across the room. ... he looked like a panther that could strike at any moment but was in no rush to do so.

... His eyes, which never left my face, were not actually dark at all, I discovered, but dominated by dilated pupils bordered with a gray-green sliver of iris. Their pull was insistent, and I found myself unable to look away."

When I read the descriptions of MdC in the book, I see Matthew Goode! Breathtaking indeed 😆 This is perfect casting - thank you Deb and the production 🙏

"I am hardly likely to forget you now, after that. I didn't think that witches were allowed to show their magic in public... Not in control of yourself Dr Bishop?"

This line is not in the book but in the show - I love how Matthew toys with Diana, and the delivery from MG is beyond delicious 🫠

📷 Sky/Bad Wolf A Discovery of Witches (2018) s1:01 my edits

#matthew goode #matthewgoode #teresa palmer #a discovery of witches #adow #adowedit #matthew clairmont #vampire

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oddsnendsfanfics · 13 days ago

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Izolda

Genre: Fan Fiction (Vikings)

Pairing: Hvitserk/OFC

Warnings: Slight thoughts of ma+ure content

Rating: PG13

Length: Drabble

Disclaimer: a strict work of fiction, I own nothing except the original characters and the plot line. In no way am I affiliated to any of it.

A/N: This was a request from @geeky-introvert - I swear I wrote it, but apparently I had a very vivid dream about writing your request. This has been waiting since 2018 or 2019. Oops.

Happy Easter love! Hope you're doing alright. Over the weekend could you do something for our hungry puppy Hvitserk having eyes on Oleg's sister or cousin but she's to be married to another, though neither can help their attraction? Thanks love x

Vikings Master List

Izolda was her name.

Hvitserk watched her from where he sat in the corner. She was stunning, like no other woman he had seen before. She was kind and gentle, yet as fierce as any many man could be. He wanted to sweep her off her feet, to run into the night and never return. Yet, he knew such things were not possible.

Her brother, Oleg, had made certain of that. Promising her to the disgusting Grigor. They had been married last spring, so Hvitserk had been told. He'd not been here then, arriving some time later on a mission to find his brother Ivar.

When he'd arrived, she had taken notice to the stranger from the north, claiming to be the brother of Ivar the Boneless. For two men who shared a bloodline, she couldn't help but notice the glaring differences. Hvitserk, as they called him, was lean, agile, and fair haired. Eyes as green as an emerald, and a calm presence. Ivar on the other hand was broader with hair as dark as his soul, and eyes bluer than ice, his presence like a roaring beast.

Across the hall Hvitserk watched her, her dress a striking deep red, the fabric swirling around her legs whenever she moved across the floor, as if in a dance. Taunting him, beckoning him with desire and lust for what she hid under such a fine garment. Drink to his lips, he took a long swig, the back of his hand wiping the droplets from his mouth. Wishing it had been her that he was wiping from the wisps of facial hair that he tried hard to grow.

What he wasn't aware of was her eyes tracking his every move. Each time he shifted his arm to lift his cup, whenever he would steal glances in her direction. She was a woman after all, she knew when she was being stalked. Shooting a glare across the room, her face turning in disgust when her brother walked in. Her husband by his side, laughing as if they wouldn't strike one another down if given the chance. Grigor wasn't that terrible, he was well off and her family held his in high regard.

Too bad she had been given to him like a prized sow, she'd had no word in the matter. She was to be married, because they needed the fortune and able bodied men that he brought with him. She'd nearly slit Oleg's throat, demanding that he marry Grigor then. Little good it did her.

Ignored by the two men she called family, her eyes landed on the man with the drink once more. His hair braided back from his face, the green tunic he wore had seen better days, and his body slouched.

Hvitserk's head jerked up when she approached, clearing his throat he stood to receive her. “Hvitserk, sit please.” She smiled, her smile like the sun warming his bones.

“Iz-Emporess?” Hvitserk had only spoken to her a handful of times and he was never certain what to call her.

“Izolda. Please.” Her voice was a breath of fresh air in this place. “You are not dancing? Do you not find the women here pleasing?”

“No. I mean, yes, I do. I suppose.” He had never stammered this way around a woman before.

“Hmm, let me guess.” She pointed a finger around the room, making a game, her finger landing on a slender brunette, a bit too gaunt for Hvitserk's taste. “Her?” Hvitserk shook his head,

“No? Hmm,” She pointed to a shorter blonde, a bosom as full as the moon two nights past, her hips were perfectly round and her face cheerful “What about her? She is lovely, I know her.” Hvitserk shook his head once more.

“Oh my, hmm.” She feigned thought, pointing to one more woman in the room, this particular woman was but a reflection in polished glass. Her red dress bunched from where she'd sat on the wooden bench. “Her?” She pointed to her own reflection.

“I, I do not desire any woman here.” Hvitserk lied as cheaply as a peddler with useless goods.

“I do not believe that,” She leaned forward, her hand on his thigh. “I see the way you watch me.”

“Forgive me, but I don't mean...”

“You're forgiven, Hvitserk.” Her voice was soft and low. “I watch you as well, when you are not looking. You are different than most men here.”

“And that is a bad thing?” His eyes caught hers, holding them for a moment, the world feeling as if it was going still.

“No, it is a good thing. You know, I would not shy away from you coming to visit me.” Listening for a hint of teasing in her voice, Hvitserk's brow furrowed when he failed to find it.

“Perhaps I should get to know your husband, Ivar says he and your brother are powerful men.”

“My husband,” her voice was hushed, disappointment filling her, of course he would think that she'd meant as a strategic visit.

“If you wish me to come visit, should he not be the one to extend that?”

“No, I didn't...” She shrugged, her hand still on his thigh under the table. “I meant a private visit, just you and I.”

Hvitserk's attention snapped, turning to face her, he could not believe his ears. Surely this was the work of the gods, tempting and tormenting him. She would not mean it. Would she?

“My husband is a boring man, he does not appreciate my appetite.” Izolda licked her lips, her voice still low yet holding a new flare to her tone. “He is so boring, we have been married this long and yet I am still without a child.”

“My apologises,” Hvitserk offered, his mind was truly playing a trick on him now. “I did not know that you wished for children.”

“I do, don't you?”

“Of course, a son. Or a daughter. Either would make me happy.” A small smile spread across his face at the thought. “I do not have a wife, I am but one man and that does not make a child.”

Izolda appreciated his honesty, most men desired sons and sons alone. Hvitserk's eyes light up brighter than the morning sky when he had mentioned a daughter. Her heart warming at the notion. Such a man wanting a daughter, he truly was something else.

The things she would give to have such a man. A man who valued things such as having a wife, before creating a child. A man who spoke to her as if she were a human with her own thoughts, not a piece of property to breed and order about. She'd sat next to Hvitserk for some time, he was infectious with his stories of growing up with Ivar and his brothers, tales of far off lands, and raids he had taken part in.

When he smiled her heart wanted to burst, when he laughed, she swore it was the sweetest music she could ever hear. Hvitserk was kind, perhaps too kind for a place like this. Izolda sat with wonder in her eyes, hanging on his every word. As his mouth moved, she found herself wondering what it would feel like, taste like, to have his lips on hers - among other places on her body. A deep heat ran through her at the thought. She was married. Despite hating her husband, there had been a ceremony and vows, she had to honour those.

A knot forming in her stomach, she held back the bile in her throat at the thought of having to go back to her husband when this was all over. Never had she felt this way about another human, nor had she expected to feel such things so quickly. Once again, she could sense somebody watching her, this time it wasn't Hvitserk as his gaze felt less threatening, even when he was watching her from the shadows earlier.

“I must go.” Her words were hurried and hushed. “I must return to my husband.”

“Must you?”

Nodding her head, she glanced in the direction of her brother. If she wished for her and Hvitserk to remain alive, yes. “It is...not that easy. I do wish to see you again and I shall, alone away from here. I must return for now.”

Her hand leaving his thigh, Hvitserk felt nearly naked. “I wish you well, Izolda. We shall see one another again.”

Bowing her head, she stood. Hvitserk returned the gesture, his eyes finding her husband. How easily it would be to put an arrow through that man. No, he was a guest and if he wished to remain as such, it was wise to put his best foot forward. As Izolda took her place at her husband's side, Hvitserk watched as she feigned a laugh at what he'd said. Her hands clasped in front of her. Her eyes cast down.

A shell of the woman Hvitserk had gotten a glimpse of. How free she had felt at his side. She laughed like honey bees on a summer meadow, her eyes like embers glowing from the winter fires, and her hair like gold from the fields of grains. Hvitserk was stupidly in love with a woman he could never have. He knew better than to fall for such a woman, yet there she was. Never to be his.

tagging: @icefrozendeadlyqueen @velvetvowsandvikingdreams @purplerose291 @alicedopey

#oddsnendsvikings #hvitserk ragnarsson #vikings #hvitserk lothbrok #hvitserk x ofc #hvitserk vikings #hvitserk fanfiction #marco ilsø

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usafphantom2 · 2 months ago

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The F-16 Will Be Equipped with the AGM-158C LRASM

NAVAIR is looking to award a contract for the integration of the AGM-158C-1 Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) on the F-16.

Stefano D'Urso

F-16 LRASM

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) released on Mar. 17, 2025, a presolicitation to negotiate a contract with Lockheed Martin for the integration and test support of the AGM-158C-1 Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) on the F-16. This development follows the recent news of a new contract to Lockheed Martin to increase the production of the JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile) and LRASM.

NAVAIR is looking to award a contract for the integration of the AGM-158C-1 Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) on the F-16.The AGM-158 production increaseThe LRASM

The notice mentions that NAVAIR “intends to enter into sole source negotiations and subsequently award a Cost-Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) Delivery Order (DO) to Lockheed Martin Corporation-Missiles Fire Control.” Also, the notice mentions that the “requirement includes testing both the AGM-158C-1 Legacy and UAI interfaces.”

The UAI, or Universal Armament Interface, is the result of a U.S. Department of Defense program to develop standardized functional interfaces in both aircraft and weapons to support a rapid integration of new weapons independent of an aircraft’s Operational Flight Program (OFP) cycles. The F-16 and JASSM were already tested with the new interface.

NAVAIR has not released additional details about the integration of LRASM on the F-16 at this time, although we might have more info after the response day planned for Apr. 1. Earlier this month, Lockheed Martin and the F-35 Pax River Integrated Test Force (ITF) disclosed that the F-35B Lightning II started flight testing as part of the integration with LRASM.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Peter Giesige and Airman 1st Class Brian Bowser, both weapons specialists assigned to the Ohio National Guard’s 180th Fighter Wing, and Staff Sgt. Katelyn Barrow, a munitions specialist also assigned to the 180FW, successfully load a JASSM AGM-158 on to a F-16 Fighting Falcon during an Agile Combat Employment stress test in Swanton, Ohio, Sept. 12, 2024. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Camren Ray)

The AGM-158 production increase

On Mar. 14, 2025, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control has been awarded a $122,6 million contract modification to the original production increase’s contract awarded in 2018. As part of the contract, the company will “procure tooling and test equipment needed to increase production quantities of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile and Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile.”

Lockheed Martin has been investing in the increase of the AGM-158’s production since 2022, when it added a new 225,000-square-foot factory to its existing production facilities. In 2024, another contract modification was awarded to “enable the ability to increase annual production quantities by providing additional resources for long-lead procurements and facilitating production line efficiencies.”

In the fiscal year 2025 budget the U.S. Air Force requested 550 JASSMs, after the same number was also requested in 2024 and 600 were requested in 2023. The Air Force budget requested for its own and the Navy’s stocks 115 LRASMs in FY2025, 27 in FY2024 and 57 in FY2023.

An F-35 Lightning II test pilot conducts flight test Sept. 9 to certify the carrier variant of the fighter aircraft for carrying the AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM). (Image credit: Dane Wiedmann).

The LRASM

The AGM-158C LRASM, based on the AGM-158B Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile – Extended Range (JASSM-ER), is the new low-observable anti-ship cruise missile developed by DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy. NAVAIR describes the weapon as a defined near-term solution for the Offensive Anti-Surface Warfare (OASuW) air-launch capability gap that will provide flexible, long-range, advanced, anti-surface capability against high-threat maritime targets.

NAVAIR says the weapon reduces dependency on Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, network links, and GPS navigation in electronic warfare environments. In fact, once launched, LRASM guides to an initial point using a GPS guidance system and employs onboard sensors to locate, identify, and provide terminal guidance to the target. Semi-autonomous guidance algorithms will allow it to use less-precise target cueing data to pinpoint specific targets in the contested domain.

There are currently three variants which comprise the OASuW Increment 1 program, designated LRASM 1.0, LRASM 1.1, and LRASM C-3. The LRASM 1.0 variant, which was fielded with early operational capability in 2019, has already been integrated on the B-1B Lancer and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

An F-35 Lightning II test pilot conducts the first flight test to certify the F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing variant of the fighter aircraft for carrying the AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM). (Image credit: Kyra Helwick)

The newer LRASM 1.1 variant was fielded in 2023 and is undergoing Initial Operational Test & Evaluation, according to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation’s report. The weapon is also being integrated on the P-8A Poseidon, with the activities expected to be completed by Summer 2024, although no updates about the status were released.

As for the future LRASM C-3, which adds extended range capability, the program planned a land strike capability was part of the LRASM C-3 upgrade but has since decided to remain focused on surface warfare capabilities. The missile concept of operations and system requirements were completed last year, focusing on anti-surface warfare employment range and updating the missile target threat library compared to LRASM 1.1.

The Navy has scheduled LRASM C-3 early operational capability (EOC) for 4QFY26. Meanwhile, the Department of Defense continues to plan for OASuW Increment 2 to be developed via full and open competition, with EOC anticipated in FY29 and initial operational capability anticipated in FY31. The Navy funded LRASM C-3 to bridge the gap until an OASuW Increment 2 program of record is established.

LRASM

File photo of an F/A-18F Super Hornet launching an AGM-158C LRASM during a test event in 2019. (Photo: NAVAIR)

In January 2025, NAVAIR disclosed that the U.S. Air Force’s F-15E Strike Eagle and F-15EX Eagle IIs are now set to be armed with the LRASM. Similarly to the F-16, the F-15E/EX has already been tested with the similar JASSM and the UAI.

In September 2024, an F-35C test aircraft from Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River, Maryland, conducted the first test flights for the integration of the AGM-158, both in the JASSM and LRASM variants. In January 2025, the same testing was also conducted with the F-35B.

@TheAviationist.com

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doudouneverte · 2 years ago

Text

Unfinished task

a/n: it took me a lot of time to finish it sorry...

*not my GIF*

Pairing: Lena Oberdorf x AWFC!Reader; Arsenal WFC x NEDWNT!Reader

Summary: Based on this (requested by anon)

Type: Fluff

Warning: me,tion of heart attack and nothing else (i think)

word count: 4983 (sorry)

----------

2018/19

This season, everything changed for you. To start, you made your first step and scored your first goals in Frauen Bundelsiga for Essen with your best friend Lena Oberdorf. Talking about the German player, you and her were known to be pretty close; your mom raised you alone, and she was not very surprised when you told her that you wanted to play football. Growing up in a family of football fans who had some relatives who played with the legend Johan Cruff helped. You started with a boy team, and that's where you met Lena; she was also a girl, pretty good, and despite her roughness on the pitch, you quickly became friends. She was a solid midfielder when you were a more agile and versatile player.

Life couldn't be better for you, but that's when we're talking about the second reason this season is so special for you. A few weeks before the end of the season, you planned to take a new step in your and Lena's relationship. You started to see her as more than a friend a few months after she assisted one of your goals. But life is not always so simple and so great.

In May, during a training session, the coach told you that your mom had a heart attack at work. Her life wasn't in danger, but they allowed you to leave earlier. At the hospital, the doctor told you that your mom overworked, and this was certainly caused by the stress. Your mom didn't tell you, but you knew she worked more than necessary to be sure she could attend your game without any work left to be able to celebrate with you every time you win.

But the worst happened when the doctor told you that she would need an aldut around to make sure it didn't happen. Another adult—that was the problem. You never really met your father; your mom divorced him when she learned that he cheated on her when she was pregnant. Of course you could call your grandma, but she was in Netherland, and you knew she was a little too old to keep an eye on you and your mom, and then the only available option was your aunt Marina.

After you called your aunt, she immediately booked a flight. You knew that in this situation, you had to do something you would probably regret your whole life. You had a meeting with the coaching staff to ask them something, and just before your last match, you had your response: at the end of the season, after only a few matches, you'd be a free agent and leave the country.

The girls knew nothing about that—well, maybe just one, but you knew that if you had told her, she would make you doubt, but you couldn't. It was only when you were at the airport that you wished her good luck for the next season and told her about your departure.

2019/20

It's been more than two years since you left Germany. Of course, at first things weren't easy; you spent the first part of the 2019–2020 season literally jobless. You didn't have clubs; you continued to train on your own, but you spent almost all your time helping your aunt at her work. That was like this until you ran into someone you didn't expect to see after all these months: Vivianne Miedema, and she wasn't alone; she was with Jill Roord and Danielle Van De Donk.

Of course you knew who the forward was; she was literally one of your models when you started your career, but what you didn't know was that she knew you. After a few talks, you explained to her why you were not in Germany and, more importantly, why you hadn't played since the start of the season.

They were truly sorry for you and said they wished they could do anything, but you assured them that they couldn't do anything for that and that you would eventually try to found a new club even if you had to spend the rest of the season training by yourself. Apparently they decided to take things in her perfectly because only a few days later you received an unexpected call to let you know that after the three Dutch players talked about you to their head coach, Arsenal was open to giving you a chance, but you'd have to wait until the winter transfer window to offiacilize everything wich you accepted without thinking.

Until then, you continued your routine: help your aunt in her job—well, being not really qualified for it meant you just moved boxes all day, and after that, you spent some time with your mom and sneaked out in the night to train. That was like this until you signed. In Germany, Lena was attracting the interest of a few clubs when she saw the news. She wasn't really attracted to the WSL until then, and honestly, if it weren't for random posts on her Instagram feed, she would surely have missed it.

The midfielder wanted to call you to tell you that she was proud and happy for you that you could play again after what happened, but she knew you wouldn't reply. It was selfish, but since you moved, you gradually stopped speaking to your ex-teammates. At first, you said to yourself that was because you would probably drop the football a few months after you landed in London, but you finally accepted the reality. You didn't want to have anything that reminded you of the incident, but you were also too cowardly to say all the things you never said to her.

Your debuts were pretty good; of course you started on the bench, but when the coach gave you your chance, you took it. You even scored in your first London derby against Chelsea, and even if you lost, everyone could see that you were more talented than anyone else. But unfortunately, COVID came, and with that, the end of the season.

2022/23

A lot of things happened during those three years: first, your mom found a new job in your aunt's company; second, you signed another deal with the London club; and finally, the most important thing: you made your first steps for your national team. Being a Dutch player raised in Germany, the two federations wanted you in their team, but you decided to represent your mom and also spend more time with Viv, who had basically become your big sister since you joined the Gunners.

And it was with your oranje kit that you properly saw Lena for the first time in almost four years. Yes, Arsenal faced Wolfsburg last season in Champions League, but you were injured, so you couldn't play. During your pitch inspection, you noticed someone staring at you. You tried to distract yourself by talking with Esme and Vicky, but you were cut off when Lynn and Jill said that some of their Wolfsburg teammates wanted to meet you.

If Viv was your calm and collected big sister, Jill otherwise wanted to be the cool one. She always did some dumb thing to make you smile and see her as cool as she was. Lynn quickly grew into a very close friend of yours, even with the distance. After reluctantly agreeing, you made your way with the two girls to the German players.

Here you were in front of Lina Magull and Sydney Lohmann, who just got kicked out of the Champions League because of you, but like Jill said, there were also some Wolfsburg players, and that's how you found yourself shyly waving to Alex Popp, Feli Rauch, Svenja Huth, Jule Brand, and the only real familiar face, Lena Oberdorf.

Except for Viv (who was not there), Jill, and Dom (who knew how to put two and two together), nobody really knew about you and Lena. Well, some knew you played together, but nobody knew you were very close friends, and you messed up (almost) everything after you moved to London.

"Guys, this is Y/n, she's a little shy, but she's very good on the pitch." Jill introduced you proudly.

"We already know that." Lina said, and you looked at your feet.

"Sorry," you mumbled, "but you are very good too." You added a little, unsure of what else you could say.

"Wait, are you the same Y/n who played for Essen with Lena?" Jule asked, and when you saw Jill smirk, you knew it was something she planned.

"Uh, yeah." You looked at Lena "Yeah, it was a good moment." You smiled lightly, but it was enough to be noticed by the midfilder. Something in you wanted to pull her away from anyone and tell her that you were sorry about everything, but before that, you had a game to play.

The game went pretty well, even if you lost only 1-0. You showed one of your best performances on the pitch until you got subbed off. After the final whistle, you made your way to congregate with the opponents. When Sydney asked for a jersey swap, you accepted, and the Bayern player was floating in your jersey. Her teammates didn't miss the opportunity to comment on what made Lena feel something—something she thought she had been above for a while now.

In the tunnel, you were talking with Dom when Lena came, slightly interrupting you, but the older Dutch player didn't seem to be bothered by that. "Can we talk?" She asked, and you nodded before following her. "So..." she started before pausing for a moment. "You played really well."

"Thanks, you too. It reminds me of when we were in the old time." You responded and almost instantly cringed at your word choice "Well, it's not that we're so old or anything; it's just that..."

"It's just that it's been a while since we've seen each other."

"Yeah, that's it." There was a little silence after your reply, like you were both processing what you just said.

"You...you've changed a lot since 2019."

"Uh, yeah, I grew up a little."

"And you did a little work out?"

"Oh that's? It's a funny story; when I went to London, I was free of any club, and I started to work for my aunt's company, but she just assigned me to the physical job, and after I signed for Arsenal, I kept doing this, and here I am now." You chuckled lightly at the end.

"I think it's funny that when we were little, I was the one who looked like a boy, and now look at you...you're...handsome." You lowered your head, hoping that Lena didn't see you blush at her compliment.

"Thanks, you are beautiful too." Now it was her turn to blush. "Maybe one day we should—" you couldn't finish your sentence before Alex called her teammate "I think it's our cue to leave," you said, and she nodded and quickly hugged you before she left.

Later this night, you sent her a DM on Instagram. You talked a lot, and before you forgot, you gave her your new phone number. Back in London, you were still in your little cloud until Vicky reminded you that your next opponent in the Champions League would be Wolfsburg, but before that, you had a game against Manchester United, where you unfortunately lost Leah.

At the end of April, you were in Germany, ready to play one of the biggest games of the season. The two teams made their way onto the pitch, and like everyone except you were on the starting eleven. It was funny to see you being almost taller than every player, knowing that you were one of the younger. Your job today was to stop Sveindis' offensive and try to assist Stina in the box.

What should be a hard game became almost impossible when you were tackled by Lena for the first time rather early in the match. Lying on the grass, you took a moment to stand up until two people held you theirs hands. You unconsciously took one of them, and instantly, when your skin touched others, you felt a familiar warmth. On your feet, you were not disappointed when you saw Lena in front of you. She seemed a little worried, but you reassured her with a smile and a gentle tap on her shoulder. That was something she used to do every time an opponent was rough with you, and it became your thing to show that you cared about each other.

The match didn't go as planned, but you still gained a draw before the game at the Emirates. Back in London, you proposed to Lena that you see her before the next game. You told her that your mom wanted to see her. You felt relieved when she finally accepted, and now you had to wait a week to see her.

One week later, you were in your bedroom, emptying your wardrobe with Viv and Beth, trying to choose an outfit for the day. "Well, why don't you try the outfit that Daan brought you for your birthday?" the Dutch asked.

"I lost it," you instantly replied.

"How can you—" Beth started before being interrupted by another voice.

"Y/n always lost or forgot things," Jill said throught your phone. She proposed to help you with Lynn, so you facetimed them a few minutes ago, but they were more focused on whatever the young Dutch was watching on her phone. "Do you remember when she almost forgot her boots before a Champions League game?"

"Oh, come on, it was once," you groaned.

"Yes, but if Viv wasn't there, you would have spent the game on the bench." Beth reminded you.

"Okay, I think we got it; now can we focus on the really important thing?"

"Yeah, girls, let's focus. We're talking about Y/n's first date since a while." Lynn said, and you groaned again.

"It's not a date; it's just a lunch with my mom." You said.

"It's not?" The two girls thought the phone asked at the same time. "So why do you need us to pick an outfit?" Jill added.

"Because...because I promised to my mom that I'd try to wear something other than a jogger, and it's been a long time since I spent a whole time almost alone with Lena, so I want to look good."

"If you want to look good, you can just go without a shirt." Jill joked, making Lynn and Beth laugh, while Viv just sighed. Sorry, but well, you built a good body, so why not show her?"

"Is that even a serious question?" Viv asked while you picked some clothes in the big bazaar.

"Okay, I'll be right back," you said before exiting the room. The girls were talking until you received a text from Lena. Well, from what your teammates could see, 'Obi💪🧸'.

Obi💪🧸:

Ich bin auf dem Weg (I'm on my way)

You came back just when Viv was about to call you. Your two Arsenal teammates looked at you; they didn't say anything; they just let you get a little unsure if it was a good choice of cloth, but when you were about to speak, you heard Lynn and Jill cheering you on the other side of the phone.

"Go catch the girl," the midfielder said, and you rolled your eyes before you took your phone and saw the text from Lena. You didn't wait more before you left a little anxious, even if you didn't know why.

This afternoon was perfect; your mom was more than happy to see Lena again, and she didn't miss embarrassing you in front of her. When you drove her back to her hotel, you took some time to apologize about your departure a few years ago, but she told you that it was okay because she knew you couldn't do something about that. And after that, there was the game in London.

-----

At the end of the game, you lost 2-3. You were more than gutted, of course; you conced a goal in the last minutes of extra time. The Wolfsburg players came to congratulate you, and even if you found it cruel, you were still professional. Dom stayed with you until she was sure you were okay. Of course, Viv, Jill, and Lynn also came to check on you. You were trying not to be too emotional when Lena approached you. The Dutch players exchanged a look and gave you a quick glance to make sure you were alright before they let you with the German midfielder.

In this moment, a lot of thought invaded Lena's mind. She wanted to hug you to tell you it was okay and you fought pretty well, but she also knew that as someone who plays to win, it was not something she would want to hear herself. So she just gently rubbed your arm and gave you a weak smile. It was fascinating that even after all these years, she still understood you so much. "It was a tough game," she said, and you nodded. "I'm very happy and proud to see you play again, even if it would be better if we played together."

"You can come play here," you remarked, making her look at you with wide eyes. "I mean, if you want, of course. I don't want to force you to leave everyone; it's just that I miss playing with you too." You confessed, "And I'm sure you'd kill it in red." You joked.

"Thanks, but I'm not ready to leave my green shirt for now. But..." she started, making you raise your eyebrow to her. "But you can let me try yours to see if you're right." she explained. It took you some time to process what she meant, but when you did, you couldn't stop a little smile from appearing on your face.

"Very smooth, Oberdorf," you replied while you started to take off your shirt. Today was not particularly hot, but Lena sensed a hot wave rising in her body until it reached her face, and she started to blush. "And here for you," you said, holding her your shirt. Her eyes lost themselves a little on your tall figure before she took it and "maybe" brushed your fingers together on purpose.

She thanked you, and when she was about to take off hers, you stopped her. You didn't say anything until you quickly walked away toward Dom, who was talking with Feli. Lena had her eyes fixed on you through the entire process when you talked to the defender before she left you with her teammates and then came back with what seemed to be a Wolfsburg vest that she gave you, and you made your way back to your best friend.

"Where were you going?"

"I just needed that," you said, showing her the vest.

"For?" You covered her with her vest just enough to let her take off her shirt, protecting her from the public's view.

"Wow, did I miss an episode or something?" Vicky asked some players next to her when she saw what you did. The women around—who were basically all your team and some of Lena's teammates—turned their heads to where the Dutch were looking.

"Oh, Daan will really like that." Lynn was visibly excited to tell your national teammates that.

"Are they dating?" Gio asked.

"No, not yet, but don't worry," Jill said just loud enough to be heard by Dom, who was next to her and earning a strange look from Viv because of the expression she was making.

After your jersey swap, you walked with Lena to where you let almost everyone. You were close, but not close enough to permit anyone to misinterpret anything. Sometimes your arms would touch her while you were walking, and those little touches made you feel something deep in you. In the tunnel, you stopped her a little far away from the group, and the German looked at you with a confused look.

"Can you promise me something?" You started, and when she nodded, you continued, "Promise me that whatever happens in the final, you will not win."

"Yeah, I promise—wait, what?"

"Yeah, you heard me."

"But I want to win."

"And me too, but I want you to win the Champions League with me. That was your idea when we were little," you reminded her, and she laughed.

"I can't promise you that."

"Well, at least I tried," you joked. "More seriously, good luck for the final; I will come to see you."

"Thank you, and I wish you come. It would be different if you can't be there."

Later on the bus, Lena was questioned by a lot of her teammates. She knew that even if they were tired because of previous events, they wouldn't stop until they had their answers. But even if the German plaeyer was more than happy from your last interaction together, she felt like it was too soon to hope about something, despite all the teasing from her teammates and Jill's confession about the fact that she didn't see you so comfortable around someone other than Dom and Viv. While the midfielder was stuck with everyone's attention, the Dutch defender texted you, first to know how you were doing after you had to leave the pitch because of a bad tackle and then to ask you something about one of her next matches.

----

Two days later, you were told that your little injury would make you miss the next two games. You mentally cursed yourself because you knew when you went to the ball that you wouldn't avoid getting hit by the defender. Tryin not to overthink, you asked to take at least one week for you, which the coach was happy to give you. You used this week to help Laura and Leah with their injuries; you also spent some time with your mom and your aunt before you booked a flight to Germany. You don't know how, but your mom told you a few days prior that someone sent you a ticket for the DFB-Pokal final between Wolfsburg and Freiburg.

At the airport, you were surprised to see Lynn and Jill waiting for you. They helped you with your luggage, and they explained to you that the ticket was Dom's idea. Of course it was hers; she always perfectly knew how to read you, so when she saw how Lena talked about you and how you acted, she knew for you that somehow you may have the chance to finish what you couldn't a few years ago.

On the day of the final, the VfL locker room was more secretive than usual—at least that's what Lena was thinking. Except for Lena, all the players knew something special could have happened today. Sensing the weird atmosphere and some gazes on her, the midfielder asked Jule what was happening, but after a quick glance to her teammates, she found the courage to keep her mouth shut, even if it was more suspicious. But the short brunette didn't have too much time to think about it because they had to warm up before the kickoff.

The game started like usual, and at halftime, the two teams were 1-1. Even if the girls in black and green were a little pissed by the result, they were more concerned by something else: Lena hadn't spotted you in the crown yet. But it was a good thing; that meant she was totally focused on the game and nothing else. Back from the locker room, fifteen minutes later, you saw Lena talking with Sveindis, and the midfielder seemed to sense your eyes on her because she suddenly stopped and was about to search for a reason for this strange feeling, but she was met with Alex instantly. The striker looked at her teammates with a confused look before Lena shoved the strange feeling away and made herself ready for the second half.

Like you expected from them, Wolfsburg easily won at the end of full time. The joy quickly erupted from one side of the stadium, and of course, you were among the ones who were celebrating. After a few minutes, you waited for them to give both teams their medals and the cup for your best friend's teammates, and then you were escorted by a guy from security to the pitch to your own surprise. Once on the pitch, you were quickly dragged to the group of players by Lynn, and there you congratulated the girls until you found yourself behind a certain number 5. Ewa Pajor was talking to Lena until she saw you; she just looked at you and excused herself to her teammates.

A little confused Lena decided to search for Jule, but when she took a step back, she collided with someone, and when she turned around to apologize, she opened her mouth, but nothing came out. She blinked her eyes quickly, making you laugh, and when she heard your voice, she finally found her voice back. "What are you doing here?" she asked.

"Oh, rude. I thought you would be happy to see me," you replied.

She stood there for a moment, processing everything, and when she came back to her senses, she enveloped you in a tight hug. It took you by surprise, but you finished by reciprocating the hug. With her, everything seemed easier. The little touches, the confessions, the hugs and–and now it clicked in your mind, an almost forgotten feeling.

"I thought you wouldn't see me play until June, but wait, aren't you supposed to have a match this weekend?"

"Yeah, but thanks to a certain defender, I sprained my ankle, so I can't play for now, but I should be alright for the next week." You informed her.

"Oh, that sucks" she commented.

"Yeah, but I should be back in training the next Monday," you assured her.

"I see," she said, looking around to see a lot of eyes on her. "Uh, actually, it's cool that you are here because there is something I have wanted to ask you for a moment now."

"Uh, yeah, me too, actually." You smiled when you saw her surprised expression, but you couldn't brush away all the attention. "Do you mind if we go somewhere a little more calm?" She nodded, and you followed her a little farther in the tunnel. You stood there for a few seconds without saying anything; you were just admiring her. "So, first, congratulations for your victory; it was a great game; you played very well, like always." She blushed at your praise, "but I'm here for another thing. I want to tell you something, but please don't interrupt me until I finish, right?" After a little hesitation, she nodded.

"Okay, I don't know where to start, so I'll just start from the beginning. I wanted to apologize again for letting you go without telling you anything a few years ago. I know you already accept my excuses, but I need to tell you why I did what I did. At first, I planned to ask you out for the end of the season, and then it happened what happened but I didn't have the courage to talk to you about it because I feared that somehow you would reject me, so I used my travel as an excuse to stop talking to you. But then, there was this friendly game when I saw you, and when you didn't seem to be angry by that, I realized that I messed up. And after that, there was our first game in the Champions League, and my crush for you came back. Well, it's not really a crush; it's a strongest feeling. It's like I'm–"

"In love?" Lena interrupted you.

"Uh, yeah, but how do you?"

"Because I feel it too. Honestly, I should be angry about everything, and I was when you left me, but then I learned what happened with your mom and I saw you play for Arsenal, and it was like all the anger dissipated because I had seen you for a long time and you seemed happy. I wanted to ask you out too before you moved out, but I never had the chance. I don't even know how long I've fallen in love for you, but I don't know it's—I don't know."

"It's easy?" You asked, and her look told you that it was exactly what she was searching for. "Me too. I don't know why, but it's so easy to fall for you. I don't know if it's because of your eyes, your smile, your heart, or everything, but yeah, I love you. So, after four years, I can finally say this: Lena, would you go with me tonight on a date?"

The midfielder wrapped her arms around your neck before slowly approaching your face. She gave you enough time to push her, but when you didn't, she kissed you. You only pulled appar when you needed some oxygen, and Lena was giving one of her brightest smiles.

"So?" you asked when you remembered she didn't give you a proper answer.

"I would love to."

"Great, I'll pick you up at 7 p.m." you said before quickly pecking her lips when you heard some footsteps coming in your direction. Lena's teammates found you totally engulfed in Lena's little body. You saw Jill and Lynn exchanging excited faces while Dom seemed to be proud of her work.

After the team saw the two of you, you were required by almost all the youngest players and Jill to explain what happened. Dom stayed behind with a blushing Lena: "I told you," the denfender told her. The midfielder just looked at her and gave her a hug to thank her.

#woso x reader #woso fanfics #lena oberdorf #lena oberdorf x reader #arsenalwfc x reader #awfc #awfc x reader #vfl wolfsburg women x reader #nedwnt x reader

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alphynix · 9 months ago

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Schoenesmahl dyspepsia was a lizard that lived in what is now Europe during the late Jurassic, about 150 million years ago. Around 30cm long (~1'), it had a fairly small head, elongated hind limbs, and a very long tail – proportions that suggest it was an agile animal capable of fast running.

Only one specimen is known, most notable for being preserved inside the stomach of the dinosaur Compsognathus. For a long time it was classified as an example of Bavarisaurus, but it was finally recognized as representing a distinct type of lizard in 2018, with recent studies placing it as an early member of the gecko lineage closely related to ardeosaurids and eichstaettisaurids.

———

NixIllustration.com | Tumblr | Patreon

References:

Conrad, Jack L. "A new lizard (Squamata) was the last meal of Compsognathus (Theropoda: Dinosauria) and is a holotype in a holotype." Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 183.3 (2018): 584-634. https://doi.org/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlx055

Meyer, Dalton, et al. "A Morrison stem gekkotan reveals gecko evolution and Jurassic biogeography." Proceedings of the Royal Society B 290.2011 (2023): 20232284. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.2284

Wikipedia contributors. “Schoenesmahl” Wikipedia, 19 Jan. 2024, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schoenesmahl

#science illustration #paleontology #paleoart #palaeoblr #schoenesmahl #gekkonomorpha #squamata #lizard #lepidosauria #reptile #art #compsognathus

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mutantpowerlist · 5 months ago

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Quicksilver - Pietro Maximoff

• Runs at superhuman speed • Enhanced agility and reflexes • Can create cyclones • Can run up walls and over bodies of water

Teams: Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, Avengers, X-Factor, X-Men, 198 Relatives: Magneto (father), Scarlet Witch (twin sister), Polaris (sister), Luna (daughter), Wiccan (nephew), Speed (nephew) TV / Movies: X-Men: The Animated Series (1992), X-Men: Evolution (2000), Wolverine and the X-Men (2009), X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014), Captain America: The Winter Soldier (cameo) (2014), Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), X-Men: Apocalypse (2016), Deadpool 2 (cameo) (2018), X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019), WandaVision (2021) First Appearance: X-Men #4 (Jan 1964)

#Marvel #Mutant #Powers #Quicksilver #Pietro Maximoff #Peter Maximoff #X-Factor (1991)#not technically a mutant they say but he's in the X-MEN movies #one avengers movie #198 (2006)#Brotherhood of Evil Mutants (1964)#Avengers (1963)#X-Factor (2014)

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pjblob · 1 year ago

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OC time! Prolly a bit early considering I made this tumblr alive again like a week ago but yk what i dont care.

Meet my PJ Masks OC Kitsu! To be honest, she was my first OC ever made… back then I was still trying to find a nice art style and I was too shy to make OCs. But yeah I saw other people making OCs so i was like “yo why not try it myself!”, so i made her back in 2017? 2018? Somewhere during season 3 of the show. She has gotten so many redesigns, but i’m pretty chill with this one for now :]

Her personality:

She is cunning and mischievous, always trying to find new ways of entertaining herself. She’s sharp-witted and a quick thinker, but can make very stupid decisions sometimes, especially when she’s full of herself. She normally can’t take criticism and will most likely take it as a joke, if not insult you back. She does love to tease people, trying to push them to their limits for the soul purpose of entertainment. She rarely takes anybody seriously, which is why she sees herself as higher than others. But below that, she’s very loyal and does care for the people she trusts the most.

She doesn’t know what her purpose is in this world, so she tries to just make the best of her experience by doing anything she wants. And the best way to do that is by causing conflict between everyone else. She’s not on anyone’s side really,, She will change sides depending on how fun it’ll be for her. Which does make her quite lonely at times. girly just needs some friends 😭😭💔

So her powers:

Kitsu has shape shifting powers, can take the form of anyone and anything she wants, but won’t inherit the powers of the one who’s trying to mimic. She can hold the form for as long as she likes. Her second power is Agility. She’s quite fast, can climb easily and dodge with no problem.

Now her backstory:

It’s pretty hard to talk about her backstory, because it’s very similar to munki-gu. Again, she was created wayy before him and it just so happened that the writers came up with the same idea. So I was kinda forced to change it 🥲

So in her verse, before mystery mountain was a floating island above the city, it was a part of a different universe. The mountain was on a land, where there was a village protected by 4 mountains, all on different sides of the land. The Dragon mountain of the East, the Vermilion Bird mountain of the South, the White Tiger mountain of the West and the Turtle mountain of the North(yes this is a reference to the four symbols, look it up). In the middle of these mountains was a town, which was protected by these mountains. An Yu lived on the dragon mountain. Since she was born of the “dragon blood”, she would be trained to become the protector of the mountain. (yes i have made designs for the other protectors too >:3)

There were loads of magical creatures living amongst the humans, most of which were harmful to them. So An Yu’s ancestors, having so much power and control, decided it would be best to imprison the creatures to prevent further harm. (hence why Munki-gu was imprisoned too) Kitsune’s were a big harm to society however, that their magical box prisons weren’t enough, considering they could shapeshift. So they decided to exterminate them all. An Yu witnessing all of it, decided to secretly save just one (that being Kitsu).

Years later, there was a war between the mountain guardians and ninjas, who wanted to steal their powers (I thought Night ninja and his ninjalinos could be descendants of them). It ended up in the universe getting completely destroyed, with An Yu having to sacrifice herself to save her mountain, getting imprisoned in the gong as a result. An Yu, after getting rescued, still held the burden of her ancestors imprisoning Kitsu’s species, so ashamed of their past actions, that she never tried to set Kitsu free. She was too scared to confront her, since she thought her and other magical creatures would rise against her and blame her for everything.

A few days after the PJ Masks rescue An Yu in the show, one day, they decide to give her a visit. While An Yu was showing the PJs around the pagoda, Catboy becomes a bit too curious and finds the box where Kitsu was imprisoned, accidentally letting her out in the process. When Kitsu was set free, she needed to give herself a new physical form, so she chose to mimic the first person to let her out, that being Catboy. But since she can only mimic the physical appearance of someone and not their powers, her “PJ Mask” suit didn’t include an animal symbol on her chest. Her suit can still light up when using her own powers though. Finally let out, she fled into the city, until she was ready to start causing mischief. After that, An Yu forbid the PJs from entering the mountain for a while, but still blaming herself for letting her guard down and letting Kitsu free.

so that’s what I have so far, the rest will be decided with time since the show is episodic annd literally anything can happen xd

hope u enjoyed reading this paragraph 🫶🫶ndhdhdhjd

#pj masks #pjmasks #pj masks power heroes #pj masks oc #pj masks au

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jgroffdaily · 2 months ago

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In the late 1950s, a wave of handsome, heavily Brylcreemed white men named Bobby became teen idols: Bobby Denton, Bobby Vee, Bobby Vinton. The most talented, by far, was Bobby Darin. Darin first burst onto the scene with “Splish Splash,” a teen-pop ode to bathtime, but soon, with his wryly smooth crooning style, he was rivaling Sinatra as the swingingest of swingin’ lovers. Later he reinvented himself as a folk singer, renaming himself Bob Darin in homage to Dylan.

It was a career marked by an overwhelming creative restlessness and success in diverse fields. He "could move with magical agility, he could do great impressions, he could rock, he was a swift and brilliant comedian, he could play seven instruments, he could write songs—167 of them," wrote biographer David Evanier. “He wanted to be a songwriter, actor, singer, and musician, and he became all of these.”

Tony winner Jonathan Groff first fell for Darin’s artistry while preparing to play him in the Lyrics & Lyricists series at the 92nd Street Y in 2018. “[Those performances were] so thrilling and so exciting,” he told Broadway.com Editor-in-Chief Paul Wontorek. An obsession was sparked. “I'm so grateful for YouTube. I started watching clips of him, and it's a hole I just keep going deeper and deeper into.”

Groff was speaking in a well-appointed ninth-floor room in the Brill Building—Darin’s former office—during a break from rehearsals for Just in Time, the Bobby Darin Broadway biomusical that evolved from the Lyrics & Lyricists show. From March 31 at the Circle in the Square Theatre, Groff will be channeling Darin in a show that’s part concert, part theater, setting out to capture Darin’s genre-spanning, shape-shifting brilliance

“I really connected with his ambition—pushing himself into different genres and styles, finding a connection to all of them musically,” Groff continued. “But most of all, I connect with his passion, his love for the audience, and his need to perform.”

Determined to push himself in his preparations for the role, Groff is taking drum and piano lessons and being put through his paces for what he says will be the most dance-heavy role of his career. All this less than a year after winning a Tony Award for his lead performance in Merrily We Roll Along: the very definition of not resting on laurels. "To feel those pathways in the brain grow and to feel that kind of expansion is so thrilling."

In fact, Groff will be in tech rehearsals for Just in Time during the week of his 40th birthday. “I'm such a specific person in that, if I could have anything for my 40th birthday, it would be teching a Broadway musical," he said. "I remember during Merrily, when we were doing the holiday Thanksgiving schedule—multiple shows, the whole schedule packed—I remember coming off stage, getting water from Hayley, who was dressing me, and saying, ‘I would so much rather be in the theater all day today than sitting on the couch.’ And she was like, ‘You're f**king crazy.’ But that's just who I am. I think I connect with Bobby Darin in that way. There’s a real, primal need to perform.”

Darin’s own momentum was fueled by a sense of urgency that likely stemmed from a weak heart, the result of a childhood illness. After a bout of rheumatic fever at eight, he overheard a doctor telling his mother he wouldn’t live past 16. “He was living on borrowed time,” Groff said. “And so he had this ambition to make it as fast as he possibly could and do as much as he possibly could before the clock ran out. It was constantly at the front of his brain.”

The show will cover the major beats of Darin’s life—his marriage to Sandra Dee, his relationship with Connie Francis, and a major family revelation (which won’t be spoiled here) that triggered a nervous breakdown and, later, what Groff calls a “truly spiritual awakening.”

That arc is reflected in the show’s musical journey—including Darin’s electrifying rendition of the Brecht-Weill classic “Mack the Knife”—all performed with a live band on stage. “It feels kind of like the Copacabana, but another essential purpose for having the band there is you feel the thrust of his life expressed through his musical journey. You really get the breadth of who he was as a person and an artist. Even just from listening to the music alone, that arc and that story are there.”

During the conversation, Groff also opened up about the late Gavin Creel, who passed away in 2024. “He changed my life,” said Groff. It was Creel, Groff shared, who inspired him to come out publicly. “We were dating, and he was so out. It was 2009. Coming out… it was sort of an unspoken or sometimes spoken thing that you were sacrificing something in your career if you did it. And I remember looking at him and thinking, I would rather feel this feeling than ever be on a TV show or in a movie. This is so much more meaningful to me. And so I owe him that.”

Ultimately, Groff said, there’s inspiration to be found in a life like Darin’s—or Creel’s—fully lived. “We're all here on borrowed time. This body is ours while we're here. And then it's not when we're gone. And so what I hope, and what I feel when I am inside of the material, is this deep, profound passion for life,” he said. “It makes me feel alive and makes me feel grateful to be alive.”

#jonathan groff #Bobby Darin #paul wontorek #Broadwaycom #gavin creel #just in time #just in time promo

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yuzurujenn · 10 months ago

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[2024.07.19-2024.07.21] Yuzuru Hanyu: Interview two years after turning professional (Hochi)

Figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (29), who marked two years since announcing his decision to turn pro on the 19th, agreed to an interview. He spoke at length about his two years as a professional, his present and the future, his fateful encounter with a program, and the "ideal" he is pursuing. We will be publishing Hanyu's words, who continues to evolve as an athlete and artist, for three consecutive days. The second and final instalment are a stand-alone interview. (Interviewer: Takagi Megumi)

Part 1:

Hanyu-san appeared dashingly at the studio in Sendai. As soon as he arrived, he started the interview by saying "Thank you." His quick thinking and agility were as good as ever. His black jersey looked good on him as always.

"Honestly, my first year as a professional was a bit of a trial-and-error state; I was constantly thinking about whether I should do this, whether I should do that, what I should do. But this (second year) has been a year in which I have clearly understood what I want to express, and what I want to do as a professional."

Though he was thoughtful at times and carefully choosing his words, he was smiling throughout the interview. Looking back on the past two years, his expression showed how contented he has become as a professional.

It all started with a one-man show “Prologue”. “GIFT,” the first solo Tokyo Dome performance by a skater in history, lasted two and a half hours in which he skated alone. In "RE_PRAY", the second instalment of the ice story following "GIFT", he took on his first national tour.

"In the second year, with 'RE_PRAY', the ice story was completely formed. I think the big thing about the second year was that I was able to properly establish what pieces existed in the story and what kind of story I wanted to tell."

He wrote the story himself, served as executive producer, and performed "Ice Story" by himself. With "RE_PRAY," he created a new form of entertainment that combines gaming and skating.

"It's the same when I choreograph various programs, but I think that the essence of what I want to express is always the idea of 'living' and the constant presence of something like a 'prayer' towards 'living'."

He has changed the concept of a professional skater. He can perform quadruple jumps and perform programs in a variety of genres. His evolution as an athlete and an artist continues in his third season.

"I have finally established the foundation for what I want to do, so as an extension of that, I am wondering how I can improve my skills in terms of expression. In order to convey myself, I believe that I cannot improve my level unless I have a strong technical foundation, as I have always said since my competitive days. I feel that my third year will be a time when I will be working on improving both my technique and my physical strength."

He will be turning 30 in December. He says that his present life is different from the future he envisioned as a teenager. He was supposed to have turned professional after the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics and retire from skating in his 20s.

"The way my stamina and technique have developed is completely different from what I had imagined, but it gives me a real sense of how much more I can achieve, and a sense of great potential for the future. I now feel that humans can achieve much more than I had thought."

He won consecutive Olympic gold medals in Pyeongchang and after his third Olympic Games in Beijing, he turned professional. He had an incredibly intense 20s. What will his 30s be like? "Nothing in particular has changed," he continued, tilting his head.

"While still cherishing who I am, I think that showing my skills and facing skating are a big part of what makes me happy. I want to always have within myself a reason for my existence, a meaning to the past 30 years for everyone. It's not just because my fans watch me, or because skating is all I have, but I want to create more clearly within myself the core of my life in my 30s."

Skating with soul. "Pursuing the ideal," he wrote on his coloured paper. The story of professional skater Yuzuru Hanyu has just begun.

-What have the past two years been like since you turned professional?

"As an athlete, I have really thought about many things in a stoic way up until now. Of course, this is true in terms of technique, but I think I have always been thinking about victory in particular. To be honest, in my first year as a professional, I was feeling my way around; I spent the whole year constantly thinking about whether I should do this, whether I should do that, what I should do. I think this (second year) has been the year in which I have clearly understood what I want to express, and what I want to do as a professional."

-What have you come to understand clearly?

"In the first year, I had 'Prologue,' and I was feeling my way around whether I could skate solo. I was also working on 'GIFT' at the same time. At the time, I wanted to write my own story, and I wanted the audience to experience how the programs they had seen up until then would change as they watched them. This was something I had vaguely thought about since my competitive days. I was able to make this a reality in my first year. In my second year, I had 'RE_PRAY,' and I felt like I had completely formed the ice story. It wasn't just about trying to figure out how to skate by myself or changing perspectives by putting what I wanted to express into a story. I think the big thing about my second year was that I was able to properly establish that this story has these pieces, and that this is the story I would like to convey."

-What kind of year will your third year be?

"I have finally established a foundation for what I want to do, so as an extension of that, I am wondering how I can improve my skills in terms of expression. As for conveying myself, I have always said since my competitive days that I can't improve my level without having strong technique as a foundation. I feel that my third year will be a time when I will be working on improving both my technique and my physical strength."

-Memories from the past two years?

"There are a lot, of course. I can't really say just one, but I've had so many different, precious experiences. Most recently, the completion of "RE_PRAY". I had that feeling that it was received well. I'm currently in the middle of the production process (laughs). It's my motivation to keep working hard, it's my driving force."

-Are you currently working on any new projects?

"I've been creating new programs and other things. I've started digging deeper into what I want to express. Because I've been working alone for so long, the emotions that come out of me tend to be biased. My ideas haven't fundamentally changed that much, so my repertoire hasn't expanded that much. But I do feel that my experiences with 'RE_PRAY' and other such things are the driving force behind the birth of new emotions and new expressions."

-Will Ice Story continue to create themes by asking itself these questions? 　

"Whether it was when I was creating 'RE_PRAY,' or when I was choreographing programs like 'Goliath,' 'Aqua,' and others, I think that at the core of what I want to express is the idea of 'living,' and the constant presence of something like a 'prayer' towards 'living.' So, what I want to convey on top of that and what I want to dig deeper into may affect the way I present myself depending on the program at hand."

-You'll be turning 30 in December. How does it compare to how you imagined your 30 would be?

"When I was 18 or 16, to be honest, I imagined I probably wouldn't be skating anymore by 30 (laughs). I would turn professional at 24 immediately after the Pyeongchang Olympics, and I thought I'd be active for about five years and then be done with skating. But the way I've developed my stamina and technique is completely different from what I imagined, and I feel a real sense of realization that I can still do so much, and a great sense of possibility for the future. Right now, I feel that humans can still do much more than I thought."

-What kind of person do you want to be in your 30s?

"Nothing has changed in particular. However, the more I polish my way of expression and the more time I spend constantly practicing and facing myself, the stronger my sense of self is becoming, and I feel like my foundation is becoming more and more established. In this way, I will continue to cherish myself in my 30s. But I think that showing my skills and facing skating is a big part of what makes me happy. I want to always have a reason for my existence, a reason for living for the past 30 years. Not just because my fans watch me, or because skating is all I have, but I want to create a clearer core for myself in my 30s."

Part 2:

It has been two years since figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (29) announced his professional debut on the 19th. In the second part, he spoke to Sports Hochi in an exclusive interview about his "fateful encounter" with a certain program. (Interviewer: Megumi Takagi)

-Does time pass differently now compared to when you were an athlete?

"When I was a competing athlete, I could just keep thinking about things like building my physique or practicing skating. But when I'm creating something or choreographing a program or doing things like that, I don't have time to just practice. So, I thought, 'I won’t be able to practice during this period, so I'll just try to maintain it’, or ‘I'll try to keep it to a certain level, and since I'm currently in the production period, it can't be helped if I cut down on sleep.' I want to provide something good, and when I think about all sorts of things, I can't sleep. To begin with, I'm the kind of person who tends to live an unhealthy lifestyle (laughs). I know I should sleep more for my skating, or eat more of this or that, but it just keeps falling apart."

-How much sleep do you get?

"It depends on the day. If I feel like I can't take it anymore, sometimes I'll sleep for eight or nine hours straight, and sometimes I fall asleep without realising it. On the other hand, there are also days when I'm awake all day. It's normal to stay up all night even though there's no need to. But it's at times like those that stories are born. It's hard to put into words. It's not that different from writing lyrics or composing music. I guess that's just how it is. I've accepted it and thought that this is just my style." 　

-During the rehearsals for "Notte Stellata" in March, you said you were "nervous about the new program."

"Of course, I felt nervous about performing it in front of everyone for the first time, wondering if I’ll make a mistake or if everything will be okay, but if anything, I thought it's great, and the people around also thought it's great. But when that circle expands from me to people who are close to me, and then to my fans and to the general public, honestly I'm really scared about what people will think. People have completely different values, and there's no doubt that the impression people get when they hear a program or a song is different for each person. So I do feel a bit scared that it may go in the wrong direction."

-How have you felt about that over the past two years?

"I've created a lot of programs, including 'RE_PRAY', and it makes me happy to see that people have different preferences for the programs they like. Some people say they like my self-choreographed programs, and others say they prefer programs that are properly choreographed by a choreographer. Some people say they prefer programs that are more like traditional figure skating, and conversely, some people prefer programs that are more over-the-top, like 'MEGALOVANIA', so it really varies. That's also one of my strengths. I'm really happy that everyone has different interpretations of the programs and likes them."

-What programs would you like to try in the future?

"I actually want to make a 15-minute program, but I'm worried it might be difficult."

-Is that a physical thing?

"Of course, it's physically demanding. For example, even if I don't jump that much, I don't want it to become boring. I want to create something with so-called contemporary movements, but I don't think I can keep up."

-There’s a concept.

"I have a vague idea, but I'm not sure if I can go that far yet. I don’t know. I haven't found a song that I want to skate to yet. I just don’t think I’ve found a song that I want to skate to for 15 or 20 minutes."

-"Danny Boy" (※1) has a more empathetic and gentler feel than ever before. Is this due to the fact that your range of expression has expanded over the past two years, or is it a change from within?

"I do feel like I've become able to express emotions that were already there in new ways. That's true when I skate to 'Notte' (Notte stellata) or 'Spring' (Come, Spring). I've been able to express things like compassion or prayer through the melody, the way I use my hands, the way I use my upper body, and so on. Up until now, I've been doing classical, pop, and instrumental pieces, and 'Come, Spring' was originally a pop song. This time, I used a jazz melody, which was something I hadn't done before, and I think the biggest difference is that I feel like I've finally become able to do it. Of course, I think part of it is that I'm getting older and becoming more mature, but I feel like I’m catching up a bit in the way I use my body to express that, and in my thought processes."

-"Danny Boy" was recommended to you by Hoshino Gen.

"That's right. I met Gen-san (※2) on the show and he said, ‘This is a good song’. At that moment, I had a feeling that this was it. I decided almost immediately that I was going to skate to this song."

-Did it come easily?

"It's hard to find songs that inspire me and songs that, when I first listen to them, I can imagine myself standing there and skating to them. I've been searching really hard for songs, but it's not easy to find one. But that song just came to me. I had a feeling that this was it. The melody was not something I could choreograph by myself, and I felt that this song needed to be skated over and over again to mature, so I immediately thought of David (Wilson, ※3) and asked him for help. It was a quick development with the song, and I felt like it was a fateful encounter."

[※1] Performed by Keith Jarrett. Debuted at "Yuzuru Hanyu Notte Stellata 2024" in March this year. [※2] He appeared as a guest on Hoshino Gen's show "Ogen-san's Sabusuku-do" (NHK, broadcast last August). He played the role of "Ogen-san's younger brother" and talked about music. [※3] Canadian choreographer. Choreographed "Romeo and Juliet" for the free skating at Sochi Olympics, "Notte Stellata," and "Spring, Come", among others.

Part 3:

The final episode of an exclusive interview with figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (29), who announced his professional debut two years ago on the 19th. He talked about "full effort," "mind, technique, and body," and his "ideal" as an athlete. (Interviewer: Megumi Takagi)

-During a press conference for "RE_PRAY," you said, "I can still improve the composition."

"Originally, in practice, I was practicing 'Messenger of Ruin' with the final axel as a 3A3T (a triple 1/2-triple toe loop combination jump). Sometimes I would also practice the first toe loop in the second half as a 4T3T (a quadruple toe loop-triple toe loop combination jump). I probably wouldn't be able to do it in a real performance, but I was practicing it as a way to build up my stamina and improve my skills. I had some time to spare, so I thought I'd like to do it if possible. I tried it on the final day of the Miyagi performance, and there were some flaws. I guess I was hoping that if I practiced more, I'd be able to do it."

-Will there be a composition as difficult as that (※1) this season as well?

"I would like to do it. However, I think the composition will be completely different depending on what I want to express. Is the challenge a quadruple jump, or something more physically difficult? Also, I think the way it is presented will be completely different depending on whether I am challenging myself expressively. If possible, I would like to improve the composition. However, when it comes to a tour, I wonder if I am really 100% confident that I can deliver something good to everyone. I think it is necessary to always consider the balance and make sure I am not overestimating myself."

-It was the same in the ice shows and exhibitions when you were competing, and of course it's still the same now. Why are you able to give it your all every time?

"On the contrary, I feel more uncomfortable if I don’t give it my all. Performing in front of people is in itself something that may or may not please them, but in that moment, it may also be a catalyst for a change in someone’s life, even if just a little. If it were my own performance, I don't think I could show a half-hearted performance."

-Is that always the case?

"Always. I think I've been like that since I was little. I think my physical ability is pretty high, but if I didn't give it my all, I wouldn't reach that level. Therefore, I had to remove that limiter and try to catch up with my sister (Hanyu started skating because of his sister, who is four years older than him) or try to reach her level, since I couldn’t get that far unless I gave it my all. For example, when I was a novice and I couldn't jump the triple or double axel properly. Other kids could jump them, but I was flexible, didn't have much muscle strength, and wasn't blessed with a body that was so good in terms of explosive power, but when I thought about wanting to be better than everyone else, or wanting to catch up with everyone else, that's why I kept giving it my all. I removed my limiter more than other people. Because I didn't want to lose. I wanted to be praised (laughs). So, removing the limiter is normal for me probably from a young age. I have an older sister, so there’s always someone at home to aspire to. So, I guess I had to remove the limiter in everything. And now I have a sense of responsibility. Because I am Yuzuru Hanyu, the question of how far I can go in my pursuit is gradually coming into play and giving it meaning. If I were to talk about my childhood, I think that's probably what it was like."

[※1] In "RE_PRAY"'s "Messenger of Ruin," he completed a highly difficult routine just like in a competition, including a single quadruple Salchow and toe loop, five consecutive quadruple toe loops, and two triple axels.

-How do you increase your concentration before a performance?

"In my case, theoretically, I think that if I can get excited or create a situation that I find enjoyable, I will naturally be able to concentrate. So, although I don't sing it out loud, I think that getting into music is what turns on my concentration switch. It's like my blood gets pumping, or like the switch in my brain changes. I guess it's the song, the music."

-You are still a complete athlete. Athletes often use the phrase "Shin-Gi-Tai” *," but where does ‘mind, technique, and body’ fit into your perspective, Hanyu-san?

"In the end, I think there's no point if you can't find a balance. If you excel in one area… For example, if your heart becomes very strong at one point, but your technique is not strong enough to match the size of your heart, then the heart itself will probably be destroyed and you will be swallowed up. So you definitely need the technique to express your heart. Even if you spread that heart and technique widely, if you don't have the physical strength, if your body itself isn't functioning well, then you will be swallowed up by your technique and your heart. In the end, I think if you really want to level up, you have to make everything bigger."

*心技体 (Shin-gi-tai) – Shin = mind/heart, Gi= skills/technique, Tai = physique/body

-What is an athlete?

"Now, I have the opportunity to work in various professional fields and have more opportunities to come into contact with people whom I really respect, I think that the people I consider to be the very best are all athletes. For example, there is the NHK programme ‘The Professionals’, and people like that are really athletes. Personally, I think the way they use their time, or the way they use their heart and soul, to achieve a certain goal or ideal is what makes them athletes. I don't know whether to call that an athlete or a professional, but that's how I've always been since my competitive days. I think that's what I would like to call myself, an athlete."

-You've often used the word "ideal" since the latter half of your competitive days. It sounds like a declaration of determination not to compromise on that.

"The reason I started talking about my 'ideal' towards the end of my competitive days was because, well… To be honest, I wanted to perform a certain way, but after all, it didn’t always lead to positive evaluation. That's when I decided to shift towards pursuing my ideal."

-Perhaps around Autumn Classic?

"The most significant was Autumn, I guess…Autumn 2019…? At that time, I had no choice but to reconsider and realise that the most important thing was to do what I wanted to do and perform the kind of performance I was aiming for, rather than worrying about scores. I felt that this was equal to making the fans happy. From then on, I am still on that same path. After I become a professional skater, I have to pursue it even more. Because I am skating for the fans. The ideal is getting higher and higher, and I am chasing that ideal."

Post-interview notes:

Last year, one year after turning professional, Hanyu-san sent a message to his fans to Sports Hochi. "I will continue to strive for my ideal and continue to constantly renew that ideal," he wrote. I think that this past year has been exactly like that.

The path he should take must have become clearer now. His expression was bright and full of contentment. We asked him to write down his aspiration for his third year on a coloured paper. He wrote, "Pursuing the 'ideal’”. "I'm skating for my fans, so the ‘ideal’ will get higher and higher," he said. Beautiful skating that blends in with the music. A range of expression that can only be achieved with advanced technique. I hope that Hanyu-san will continue to cherish the "ideal" skating that he has carefully cultivated. (Takagi Megumi)

Source: 1. https://hochi.news/articles/20240718-OHT1T51180.html?page=1 2. https://hochi.news/articles/20240718-OHT1T51181.html?page=1 3. https://hochi.news/articles/20240719-OHT1T51148.html?page=1 4. https://hochi.news/articles/20240719-OHT1T51151.html?page=1 5. https://hochi.news/articles/20240720-OHT1T51200.html?page=1 6. https://hochi.news/articles/20240720-OHT1T51199.html?page=1

#hanyu yuzuru #yuzuru hanyu #羽生結弦 #figure skater #figure skating #interview #machine #translation #2nd Pro Anniversary

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