#dream ranker

[nyashykyunnie]

˗ˏˋ Jinwoo x Isekaid! Artist! Reader ◛⑅·˚ ༘ ♡ ˎˊ˗

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚𝕊𝕦𝕟𝕘 𝕁𝕚𝕟𝕨𝕠𝕠˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

・┆✦ Entry : 044 ✦ ┆・

[Tw: I think this fall under depictions of depression and panic attacks. Please, if you're not in the headspace, do not read this. ]

╰┈➤ ❝ [ My Muse] ¡! ❞

Isekaing to Solo Leveling is one thing, but living in this world is just... Way too brutal for your poor heart.

Why is that? Anxiety is a major enemy.

What do you mean everyone else is living normally not having little paranoid moments that lead to panic attacks with overtaking at the possibility of a gate opening somewhere near you and monsters would come out?

Sung Jinah's school wasn't even safe. How are you gonna live?

Anyway.

You have a job to do.

Even though you just wanna spend all of your time crying in the corner of your room and praying to god to protect you when technically you aren't even religious.

But what are you to do?

It's not like Sung Jinwoo will swoop in and save you from misery.

...Hahah, if only.

You are one of his more delulu fans, like every other girl in this country— You are a big fan.

Well, except the fact that you know far more things about Jinwoo since you came from a world where he is fiction.

The flex you have is that you know how awfully adorable that petty bastard is when he was still an E-ranker. Those Jinwoo simps will never know the fact that Jinwoo has the fluffiest and softest looking cheeks ever.

Not to mention, you have all of his powers memorized to even the titles those powers have. You can name a lot of his shadows.

Of course the easiest to name are Beru, Igris, Bellion, Kaisel, Tank,.... And the easiest,... One, two, three, four.... Yeah, you get it.

But why are you being so smug? As if you 're not the same fool who secretly buys Jinwoo polaroids. Coming from this country full of fangirls is a haven for you since there is quite... The plethora of Jinwoo trinkets.

And you, being a lovestruck fool, went all in and took "Take all my money" to the next level even though the man you're obsessing over is 10x more richer than you.

But ah, this isn't the time to fawn over your Jinwoo merch paradise.

You have work.

Thankfully enough, this world has given you mercy. Despite it preying on your paranoid self, it gave you the blessing of living the life you've always wanted.

And that is to be a freelance artist.

Not doing your average 9-5, crying about the lack of fame you receive that hinders the pathway to making a successful art career, not having to listen to family members berating your love for art as low as a drug abuse.

In this world, no one is going off about your craft, no one is belittling your passion to something akin to a crime.

Like it's just a pathetic hobby and there's no meaning to all the hard work you put in the past years improving your skills, there's no value to being able to draw squares and circles more impressive than others, there's nothing note worthy of being able to pick and choose colours— There's none of that.

To be honest, there was even lots of moments where you wanted to give up, where you realized maybe they're right.

Even if you had starved yourself just to save up for your art materials, even if you work hard micro-analyzing your artstyle, even if you spent hours studying the algorithms, even if you shed blood sweat and tears just for the glimmer of hope that maybe you can turn your art into something more— It's all just delusions.

Like how you hope to be one of those big artists who inspire other people to create their own pieces. Like how you secretly hope that maybe your artworks can bring a smile to anyone's face if they come across it. Like how you silently pray to every single star that may your wish come true.

You wanted to keep hoping, for the slim chance of having a single magnus opus that will instantly put you in the limelight— You wanted to keep having your hand outstretched to that tiny light.

But everyday, with each piece, you start to realize that your dreams are all for nothing.

You had been so focused on art that it's the only thing you have that defines who you are as a person and as an individual.

Art is what made you human.

Slowly, your innocent dreams molded itself into a twisted and vile poison that ate you from the inside out. Your love for creating backfired and now it's a blur if your passion stems from adoration or you just ran with it because it's the only thing that made you feel relevant in this world.

Maybe you should give up.

Even if there is a drastic improvement in your art with each piece, what good is it if it can't guarantee that career you oh so desperately want? The big artists say that you should make art for yourself, well yeah, they're right. But what if even if you do that it doesn't work?

Colour theory, shape language, line language, composition— All of those improved out of sheer love to learn. You've seen other people around you get careers out of it so it will happen to you?

Right?...

Right?

You're not a problematic artist, you don't make trouble, you don't make enemies, you don't participate in drama, you stay humble and eloquent.

Surely it will work... Right?...

Hahah.

In that world?

No it didn't.

It did not.

You died in your deathbed after being involved in a hit and run.

And after a long period of slumber, you have awoken in this world where somehow you are a renowned artist.

It felt shallow, really.

Suddenly having all of that in a snap of a finger through death?

Hah.

It felt like it mirrors Jinwoo's life. Except he had rightfully earned the flory of his powers.

Truthfully, you love him because of that.

What was it?

Ah yes.

"Because I was rock bottom, I longed for the highest peak."

That was the line that made you love him.

As someone who had no future in your art career, it was that line that made your heart yearn for him.

Two unfortunate souls who struggle in the same thing in different dimensions, except one managed to create that dream into reality.

Sure, you have the glory now. And although it made you so happy, it still felt so shallow because you didn't achieve this through hardwork. You just had to die.

You had to be dead.

It took dying to be given the mercy of having your dreams be granted.

And that just made you feel so... So awful.

⋅ ˚ ₊ ‧ ଳ ‧ ₊ ˚ ⋅ ⋆ ౨ৎ ˚ ⟡ ˖ ࣪

With a canvas on one hand, your painting materials neatly arranged in a bag in the other hand— You take a deep breath and enter the party.

Brilliant golden lights twinkle above your head coming from the magnificent chandelier hanging above. Cameras flashing, the clinking of glasses as hunters and celebrities discussed amongst themselves dressed in luxurious outfits and blinging jewelry.

The sight made your stomach sink and a lump in your throat forming.

This is an entirely different world you knew from the lonely greys and blues.

You look around frantically, almost panicking at the overwhelming chatter and blinding lights.

"Ah, you're here" A voice snaps you out of it.

You turn to see your sponsor, Choi Jong-in flashing a polite and handsome smile. You bow your head politely.

"Please," Jong-in simply shakes his head, "No need to be so polite. I am pleased that you have arrived in time. Champagne?"

He extends a glass towards you and you shake your head, sheepishly saying "O-oh... I'm not really an alcohol enjoyer. I'm fine."

"Ah, I see" He nods apologetically before gesturing you to a clearer space.

Jong-in escorts you to a less crowded area of the ball, the lessened crowd and noise calming your accelerated heartbeat down.

"If there is anything you need, please feel free to call me or the waiters" He says kindly, "You are also free to eat food."

"Thank you, Mr. Choi" You bow politely.

Before he could even reply, Jong-in was called over by a beautiful blonde girl you knew all too well.

Cha Hae-in.

She's as lovely as she was in the manhwa panels, with that red dress and her neatly tied hair— She was a sight to behold.

But as soon as you see a tall man clad in black, you feel a distinct thump in your heart, a twisting kind of small pain that made you feel like it stopped beating along with the way your lungs stopped breathing— You knew who it was.

"A guest?..." He inquires, making your heart thump even harder at the sound of that deep voice you only heard through the speakers of your phone and laptop.

"Mr. Sung, I'm glad you could make it along with my vice master" Jong-in hums, "This is an artist I'm sponsoring, I thought it would be a good idea to commemorate this important event celebrating humanity's win against the gates"

"Ah, I see" Jinwoo's handsome grey eyes would sweep onto your anxious form who is fidgeting uncontrollably in her hands. "I'm Sung Jinwoo,"

He extends a hand, making you look up at him with an even nervous look. It took you a while to extend your hand, and the moment your palm touched his— You felt as of you're touching someone from a different species. Something too unreal and dovine.

You barely had even managed to speak your name out with how much of a nervous wreck you are. Shaking his hand didn't happen if it weren't for Jinwoo gently doing it and letting you pull your hand away.

Your palms may have been trembling, but now it's even more erratic as you step back, not meeting his gaze.

Thank gods Jong-in decided to start a conversation to pivot Jinwoo's attention away from you.

As you attempt to calm yourself with a persistent panic attack, you feel a soft tap on your hands.

"Thank you for coming, I-I hope you enjoy your time" Hae-in says in her hesitant voice.

And you, who cant mutter a single word after your very first encounter with Jinwoo— Only muster a polite nod at her as she turns away to join Jong-in and Jinwoo in their conversation.

You were on a trance for almost five minutes, before finally deciding to set up your easel and canvas. You took out two different mason jars and filling them up with water; the gouache paint you will be using as a medium; the ceramic palette you have been using for quite a while now; and finally gently arranging your brushes.

Jong-in didn't specify what you should be painting for this event. But decided to paint the stage. An hour into the event, Jinwoo would start giving his speech as he is the main hero of the war against the gates and monarchs—As well as the person this whole event is dedicated to.

You had to pause in your process of painting the canvas, just to give respect to Jinwoo.

Your idol.

Your role model.

The man of your dreams.

His words aren't even registering as you can't help but be lost in a trance as he continues with his speech. Unconsciously, your hand raised itself and started to paint carefully, your eyes fixated on the hunter as your hand moved with a mind on its own.

⋅ ˚ ₊ ‧ ଳ ‧ ₊ ˚ ⋅ ⋆ ౨ৎ ˚ ⟡ ˖ ࣪

Jong-in was extremely worried for the artist he had hired, he could tell from earlier she was having a panic attack with the hesitance. And when Jinwoo came into the picture, it seemed to frighten her all the more. He quietly called for his secretary to add at least 40% more of the initial payment that was planned to compensate for the unintentional distress he had put her onto.

While Jinwoo was giving his speech, he couldn't help but check on her by glancing from the distance.

In that canvas, he saw the stage, and in that stage was Jinwoo.

The artist was carefully painting Jinwoo.

Delicate strokes despite her eyes not on the cloth and brush. She was just mindlessly moving her hand as she looks at Jinwoo.

"Ah... I see it now."

Jong-in quietly smiles to himself.

It wasn't that she was frightened of Jinwoo's intimidating presence. No way does someone scared of a person have that same intense look with such dilated pupils.

With a determined hum, Jong-in knew exactly what to do.

⋅ ˚ ₊ ‧ ଳ ‧ ₊ ˚ ⋅ ⋆ ౨ৎ ˚ ⟡ ˖ ࣪

It had been three days since that event, and Jinwoo was attending to paperwork when he was informed of Jong-in's visit.

He sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose with a bit of worry that his 'senior' might scold him for renting out gates in territory of Hunter's guild.

To his surprise, Jong-in entered carrying a rather large thing into his office.

"???" Jinwoo cocks up an eyebrow, silently inquiring Jong-in at what is the thing he brought in.

"Take a look, hunter Sung" Jong-in simply says and the hunter reluctantly stood up from his chair to approach the item his senior placed down.

When Jinwoo pulled off the protective cloth, he was met with a brilliant painting that felt like it was straight out of a renaissance era painting.

The red curtains were blood red and shaded softly. The wood is delicately painted, with even tiny specks that indicates the painter's exquisite attention to detail, but most importantly— His eyes were drawn to the middle, where a man stood center.

It was him.

His face was delicately painted, even his tousled black locks were intricately painted to imitate the way his strands behaved, his body language was painted in a relaxed but still managed to somehow translate the undertone of authority and power he held over the crowd that was purposely painted in a blurry manner to give more focus to him. Even the lighting of the stage was expertly imitated on the canvas.

The piece looked as if its goal was to put emphasis on his—the man who is standing in the golden limelight. As if it were trying to put him on a divine pedestal, to show him off as this some sort of god woth the painting.

"Who?..." Jinwoo finally manages to inquire.

"The artist chose you as her muse for the painting" Jong-in says, fixing his tie as he does so. "Quite the talent, no? Even us hunters who have quite the skill in the art of combat, are taken aback by such craft. It was as if she had magic on her very fingertips despite being just a civilian."

"Her muse," Jinwoo repeats, not knowing what to feel about it.

"It would be... Quite indecent of me to keep a portrait of a rival in my guild, no?" Jong-in coughs out, making Jinwoo awkwardly nod. "Consider it as a gift and a thank you for assisting my guild in jeju raid as well as your role in the war."

"I have quite the awards really, no need" He shakes his head.

"Yes," Jong-in glances back at the painting. "But I think that you, as the painter's muse, must see for yourself this piece created on your image."

"Mn...."

⋅ ˚ ₊ ‧ ଳ ‧ ₊ ˚ ⋅ ⋆ ౨ৎ ˚ ⟡ ˖ ࣪

Jinwoo quite frankly grew curious of the little painter he met and made him the centerpiece of her painting. He was honestly worried at first, she was so small compared to him and she was trembling at the sight of him. It didn't help that he noticed how she grew more shaken after they exchanged pleasantries.

Maybe he had gripped her hand a little too much.

Beru on the other hand, was visibly very pleased at the painting as well as the other shadows who wont shut up about it.

Throughout his monotonous days and hours, Jinwoo would often think of the painter.

It feels... Weird to be in someone's painting.

It's unreal even.

But ah... By chance, he met that pleasant little painter again.

She was in the bookstore, picking up several heavy books. When he approached her, she was flustered and nearly dropped the books she was purchasing if it weren't for him assisting her.

Just like their first meeting, she was clearly bashful and anxious. So Jinwoo made space between them and made small talk.

Somehow, their small talks would develop into long and meaningful ones with the days passing of them having frequent encounters.

There is this tiny, tiny warmth in Jinwoo's heart whenever he finds himself in the presence of his painter.

His heart whom he thought had lost its capability to harbor affection— Is beating fast whenever he crosses paths with her.

There is... Something about her.

Her little habits, her never ending curiosity, her childish habits and her love for everything beautiful. Somehow, everything in her eyes has the potential to be a piece of artwork.

Jinwoo was never a creative soul, he's only ever creative at insults maybe.

So to see someone so dedicated to her own craft, to see someone so full of love for something... It's like peering into a different world he never thought was there.

⋅ ˚ ₊ ‧ ଳ ‧ ₊ ˚ ⋅ ⋆ ౨ৎ ˚ ⟡ ˖ ࣪

Go Gunhee decided to visit Jinwoo, it was to thank the hunter again with coffee beans and two— Just to visit Jinwoo.

"Ah, hunter Sung," Gunhee smiles as the person he waited for appears. "I hope you don't mind, I just wanted to pop in"

"Not at all, director" Jinwoo smiles politely.

"That piece," The old man's gaze drifts to a painting hun by Jinwoo's side. "What a magnificent work of art. I heard Hunter Choi gifted it to you after the artist he hired decided to put you as the centerpiece. Truly such remarkable talent by a younger lady."

"Yes, hahah" Jinwoo awkwardly rubs his nape.as he serves Gunhee a cup of tea.

"My father told me that artists have a special kind of love" Gunhee hums, reminiscing. "He told me that having an artist love you is different. A writer glorifies you into pleasant words, a musician translates your beauty into compelling music and a painter immortalises all of you in a single painting. A blank canvas is a tool by painters that they use to communicate. All the ugliness of the world can be put into ink, and all the beauty into wonderful pops of pleasant colors"

He continues, "And through my years, this is one of the few most magnificent pieces I've ever seen that shows the painter's love for it's muse"

"Her muse," Jinwoo repeats it, "I've been told the same thing."

"A lovely feeling, no?" Gunhee chuckles, "To be loved by a person so full of love."

"...So that's what it means"

"..."

The old man's face wrinkles into a happier smile.

Young love, truly beautiful, isn't it?

⋅ ˚ ₊ ‧ ଳ ‧ ₊ ˚ ⋅ ⋆ ౨ৎ ˚ ⟡ ˖ ࣪

"That colour is really pretty" You mutter absentmindedly glance at the flowing water underneath, as if trying to ingrain the memory and behaviour of it.

"Thinking of a new artwork, again?" Jinwoo asks, glancing down at the direction you were staring at. "I can't wait to see what you'll make."

"Your pieces are always so beautiful"

It felt as if something struck an arrow at your heart, you glance at Jinwoo— Completely frozen in state.

When he noticed the heavy silence, his eyes would befall on you before his mouth going a little agape.

You're crying.

"Did... I say something wrong?..." Jinwoo asks and you panic, immediately tearing your gaze away.

"No, no, no" You shake your head, hiding your shameful tears from Jinwoo.

Compliments with your art were never really foreign, but you, being the insecure sad soppy excuse of a human being would always downplay it most of the time.

You were never truly satisfied with yourself and anything you ever made. Mostly because you came from a household where everything is never enough.

Ultimately, that system has been fully ingrained into your body that it became your personality.

Colors are muddy, the lines aren't steady or too thick or thin, the anatomy is off, the composition isn't fluid and the harmony is all over the place.

You were always, always, critical of yourself.

Nothing is ever enough.

Your works aren't beautiful enough, and you thought they never will be.

But when Jinwoo told you your art was beautiful, it caused something to crack inside and burst open.

Maybe it's because you loved him so much. Maybe it's because he is the person you admire the most in your sorry, lonely life.

It was always Jinwoo who was in your mind whenever you had those bad episodes of just having silent mental breakdowns.

It's his image that became your most beloved saviour.

Perhaps you're sobbing because you're finally able to hear the words you've imagined he would during the times you daydreamed about him.

Or maybe... Your body reacted because you knew deep down that Jinwoo was never a liar.

That he didn't say those words out of empty praise, that he said your crafts is beautiful because they simply are.

In your broken, shattered heart a heavy yet soft warmth swelled. Swelling so much that you felt so overwhelmed and couldn't control your emotions.

That kind of validation just felt like it washed away all the doubts that plagued you for years.

As you cried uncontrollably, Jinwoo would instinctively reach his hand out and pull you in for a searing kiss. His tongue gently nudges your lips before shoving itself into it.

One flick.

Two flicks

Three flicks,...

Until you yourself cant even count it anymore.

He pulls back slowly, but still not far enough for you not to feel his hot breath fanning over your cheeks.

"I only said your paintings are beautiful and yet you are crying like this, sarang?" He rubs his nose against yours, "Just what happened to you that you're this emotional, hm? Did you not think what you make is stunning? Did you never once think that your pieces are captivating? Why are you crying like this? How hurt have you been that it feels like you're crying out this kind of sorrow I can't seem to understand?"

"Why does your sobs feel like you've been dealing with such loneliness that a simple sincere compliment breaks you to this extend?"

"Everything about you is beautiful. All of you is beautiful." Jinwoo says in that ever so gentle voice of his, "Never doubt that for even a single second."

꒰ 🪼 A/N: what started as another simple fluffy idea turned into something more... Personal :'DD. Sorry guys hahahahsheshdg. Idk when I will have the free time to make the second half of the cai bots yet but please look out for when I do. ꒱

ʚ(੭´͈ ᐜ `͈)੭ .｡✧･ﾟ: ~♡ — All stories written by kyunnie; translations, reposts, plagiarism are strictly forbidden.

[feroluce]

SO LIKE. As much as I roll with the Emanator of Elation Sampo theory, I do have. Some doubts about this specific instance of it. Not that I think Boothill is lying, or that I think Sampo isn't an Emanator, but I wonder if the person Boothill actually met was Sampo.

Just! Sampo is so careful. The only reason we even knew he wasn't of Belobog was due to a dialogue-dependent fourth wall-breaking dream sequence that no other character could have seen. It took a missable dream bubble in an out-of-the-way spot that was seemingly left only for the trailblazer at the very end of a side mission just to confirm him as a Masked Fool. Like it's not just the fact that Boothill mentions this person being an Emanator. It's that he knows they're also a Masked Fool, which is also something Sampo is incredibly dodgy about. Sparkle even seems to call him out on this in her party join line fjkdjaskldj

((But also, Boothill, baby. WHY were you trying to get them drunk????))

And regardless of if you believe him when he calls himself an old timer, he obviously has a lot of experience in doing what he does. He knows what he's doing, he's good at it, and he is viciously capable and competent, unfortunately for his victims smhznskdn

So it just. Feels very unlike him, for him to let his guard down enough to not only let himself get drunk in front of Boothill-

a total stranger btw whom Sampo has absolutely no reason to trust, and a dangerous Galaxy Ranger to boot who has plenty of blood on his hands and a significant bounty on his head

-but to get SO drunk that he lets loose the secret that he's an Emanator.

When Boothill brings this up, he mentions that if Emanators were obvious and known at a glance, it would lead to atrocities. And for as much as Sampo is disliked by his victims (there's an entire anti-Sampo organization in Belobog JFDKLASJFDL), it's all for fraud. He's wanted by the IPC as an intergalactic thief. He scams people out of their money, and only rich people at that. That's mostly all that he's known for. Nothing he does is violent, even though Sampo surely has the capacity to inflict a lot of harm.

And I don't mean that he's exactly a pacifist or anything; Firefly comments that Sampo seems like a highly skilled covert fighter. His voicelines make it sound like he enjoys combat- hell, his ult line makes him sound like a hitman. I like to hc him as being a pretty high ranker in the fighting rings at the World's End Tavern, like we see in the Simulated Universe occurrences.

But I don't think he would enjoy being the cause of uncontrollable violence and bloodshed.

Like yeah he's a dick who scams people on the regs for funsies, but he has lines he refuses to cross, which we see a lot of in how he interacts with Sparkle. More than just not enjoying it, I think he would hate it if he were found out and it caused an incident, especially since he seems so endeared to Belobog and her people now and it looks like he plans to return there. He wouldn't want to bring any of that back to them.

So I just can't imagine him carelessly fucking up bad enough to out himself to a random stranger that could easily put a bullet right through his head.

Sparkle maybe could, though.

Because as we find out later the dreamscape had expanded FAR beyond what it seemed, far enough that the trailblazer had been dreaming since the warp jump in. Most people enter it unknowingly, and don't realize they're already dreaming when they think they're still awake. Boothill and Dan Heng should have already been dreaming during their exchange on the Express that started all this.

And as long as someone knows they're dreaming, completely changing their appearance is easy, even for the common layman. We see this with a couple of NPCs and also Sparkle herself, with her (in)famous impression of Sampo.

Thank youuuuu Sparkle

And yeah, the trailblazer and almost all of the other characters wouldn't know about the expansion until near the very end. None of them realized they were dreaming even outside of their dream pools, and surely none of them would think to be suspicious of another person's appearance outside of the dreamscape like that.

But Sparkle has a script from Silver Wolf.

She knew all the secrets of the dreamscape, and she knew them from the very beginning. There would have been nothing stopping her from appearing as Sampo in front of Boothill and spilling all his secrets.

And she apparently has a long-standing history with Sampo, including trying to get him in on her own much more fiery and aggressive version of Elation.

Maybe all Sampo needs is to be outed as an Emanator, and then when all the violence and bloodshed catches up to him, then he'll finally understand! ദ്ദി(｡•̀ ,<)~✩

[eldritch-spouse]

Someone who for whatever reason wants to get eaten by Vorticia and so goes to the gluttony ring hoping to find her. They by some miracle get to interact with her but when they beg her to eat them she’s like “lol no,” because it turns out they’re her match

[This is fucking hilarious. Fem reader.]

TW: Macro/micro themes; Vore.

Tightly tied to a chair, you can hear them talk behind the kitchen doors.

" You're telling me you just found this one trying to break into the premises?! " The short imp you've only caught glimpses of so far sounds exasperated.

" Yes... " The much taller demon with a dark mane replies. " She wasn't very successful, but I'm fairly certain her goal was to get caught. "

" And she said she wants to get eaten. " It's not even a question.

" By mother. Specifically her. "

There's a beat of silence.

" Vorago. You can't expect me to present a fetishist to your mother. That is ridicu- "

" Is it? I would much prefer if my meals walked directly into the plate. " The prince counters. " You're doing the poor thing a favor. I've advocated for this in the past as well, think about the time and resources we could spare during ceremonies if we take in people just like her. "

" My prince- "

" Do you like chasing after them, dad? Do you enjoy spending money on increasingly expensive hunting services? "

Dad?! That little imp? Imp-ressive.

" No, but we can't just- "

" Then give this a shot, perhaps it'll open your eyes to more sustainable alternatives. "

An unmistakable defeated sigh rings out. " ... Fine. "

You smile silently, happy that the tusked high-ranker who caught you managed to get your dream to come true. For such a scary-looking guy, he's actually not that bad.

When the doors part, your head snaps towards the curly-horned imp. They spare you a skeptical glance.

" It looks like you're getting what you want after all. "

" Yes! " The cheer is immediate and juvenile, met with a grimace.

" ... Right. " They're clearly uncomfortable. " Undress please. "

Words cannot describe how wildly your heart is beating within your ribcage.

You've been dreaming of this day ever since you discovered the nuances of your sexuality. Queen Vorticia is the most gorgeous, regal, seductive demoness to ever slither upon this galaxy and to feel the caress of her tongue would bring you to a level so beyond Nirvana that you have to contain a freakish noise of delight just thinking about it. Not that it would have escaped very fair, with the strange fruit crammed in your mouth- It's starting to hurt your jaw a little actually...

Yes, you're not the most normal of humans, but that hardly matters now.

The cart you're laid upon is wheeled towards what you assume must be the main dining hall of Gluttony's mansion. The pace is slow, the imps in charge of transporting you dare not displace a single element of your large plate's design. See, upon hearing about your situation through the curly-horned imp, the chefs present decided that it would only be fitting if you got properly and excellently decorated for the occasion.

A few of them sympathized with your situation. Few things are as romantic as loving someone so much that you would like to become a part of them, be consumed by them. One of the girls was a bit emotional hearing you talk so sweetly about the Queen. All in all, you feel lucky to have gotten this far so smoothly.

A noise from beyond crashes your train of thought.

A crash. Hissing.

The imps pushing your cart whimper and look at each other fearfully.

Ah, a tempestuous mood. You wonder what has the Queen like that.

Your chaperones slow down even more, and if you could, you'd stomp your foot on the cart to make them hurry up. You're not about to be left stranded in this hall because these cowards are doubting their life's decisions.

Finally, oh finally, you can see the tall, intricately carved doors to the dinning hall. The last room you'll ever be in, if all goes according to plan. The realization breeds a heavy feeling that causes shortness of breath in you, but for some odd reason, you have no second thoughts about any of this. More servants stand stationary, guarding the doors.

At the sight of your cart approaching, said guards hurriedly open the doors much taller than themselves, seeming frantic in the way they hurry everyone inside.

You have to strain your neck to get a good look at the scenery.

Tones of orange, red and gold shower the room, it's large enough to be mistaken for some kind of bombastic ball room- But you've done a bit of research, and you know the dinning areas are the real focus of the Gluttonous Household.

Little does it all matter. You can't bring yourself to focus on anything other than the absolutely gigantic scaled woman currently seated at a massive, tall table. Her sandy yellow scales glimmer under the jeweled chandelier's light, everything from the twin-tipped tail that lounges across the room to her drooping black robe and pupils nearly as sharp as her eyes make you want to swoon, toes curling in delight.

Queen Vorticia reaches down below, you get to watch the demoness grab a flailing, kicking man by the ankles. He's muffled just as you are, but a lot more bruised and roughed up, trying his damndest to scream past an unforgiving muffler. He knows what will happen to him the moment he's raised in the air, as do you. And there's nothing he can do but close his eyes and accept his fate when the bottomless pit that is the Queen's maw stares back.

One second of mind-numbing anticipation is all it takes, then he's gone. Dropped. Her jaw clamping the second the man was submerged. Hardly a lump forms in the column of her long throat before it's over. With neither a scream nor a whimper, his doom arrives. The Queen however, looks unsatisfied. It's almost as if she didn't even eat anything to begin with, frowning at the wall pensively.

Until the platter that man was in goes flying across the room and nearly rips a chunk out of the wall. It was so fast you barely saw the flash of gold before your human eyes.

Two of the imps escorting you scurry beneath the cart for safety.

" I trussst you've brought me ssomething worthh my time? " Her voice finally rings through.

" Y- Yes, your Majesty! " One of them is brave enough to squeak, rattling the cart and everything on it as he pulls it forward, the others sticking to the back.

You can kind of understand them. Vorticia could easily swipe a hand down and capture two or three of these imps as an appetizer.

" Then hurry! Do you wisshh me to starve here?! "

A slam of a powerful fist causes the ground to quake.

" Never, my Queen! "

In a blink, your platter not only lifted off the cart but rushed onto the table, quickly turned and pushed to be in front of the demonlord herself. You almost get dizzy from all the jostling, and as your vision settles, you see the Queen wordlessly wave before scrambling steps follow. The servants nearly trample each other to leave the room alive.

You don't even look their way.

You can only bore holes into the gorgeous woman before you.

Vorticia raises a brow ridge, humming.

When a single claw descends, you imagine she'll slice your skin, peel you like an apple or go for your innards first. Instead, she stabs a tomato next to your waist and brings it to her lips, tongue roping it inside in a blink.

You're sure she can hear your poor heart thunder in its fickle confines.

" You mussst be the human they mentioned earlier. "

You blink.

" Pretty thhhing, wantss to be my dinner... " She nearly purrs, making something stir low in your belly.

At the way you attempt to frantically nod, she actually cracks a smile, incredulous. Although the hunger you've always yearned for resides in her thin eyes, there's also a hint of genuine curiosity you wouldn't typically see in the gaze of such a predator.

" Hmph. Well I hardly buy it. "

" MmMMF! " Even if you had something eloquent to counter with, muffled grunts are all you manage.

" Don't mumble, it'sss rude. "

She begins flirting with the decorations on your platter again. Every single time, you study the movements of her calloused, scaled hands as they move, waiting for the cut that never comes, the grip that never follows, she simply steals bits and pieces of vegetables and frivolous dressing. You're almost offended for a second. But... The anticipation is actually causing some curious effects in you.

In a way, every single time her claws scheme the platter, brushing over the bare skin of your legs and tickling your sides briefly before retreating with a slice of fruit or veggie, she's playing with you. Having her fun, as both an apex predator and a teasing mistress. Fear mingles with sparks of arousal you've poorly contained thus far, creating a fire that has you sweating under her serpentine gaze.

" You're almossst too cute to eat. " She chuckles eventually. Something wooshes nearby, it takes you a moment to notice it's her large tail.

You notice, rather belatedly, that there's no one else in the room but you and Vorticia, and a suspenseful quiet has fallen between you. You could not have asked for a better environment. It feels as if you're both sharing a very intimate, sacred moment.

The next time her hand dips, instead of skirting around the main course, she tip taps her way up your trembling figure and circles a long claw under the swell of your breast, watching you shiver attentively before edging the decorative leaf covering it. A more than pert nipple catches on her sharp extremity, and she uses a thumb to flick it idly, casually, head tilting at the way you squirm and exhale through your nostrils.

Your other breast is easily uncovered as well. The Queen betrays nothing in her expression when she grabs a piece of bread and soaks it in the condiment that coats your skin, dragging it upwards, swirling it around one of your tits before eagerly devouring it.

This is repeated enough times to drive you a little stupid with want, groaning miserably when she merely teases your tits and continues to torture you with featherlite caresses.

The sweet torture continues when she takes care of the rolls covering your spread legs, watching the shameful state you're in become more and more noticeable. Your cunt flutters beneath her mere stare.

" Ssstrange, I've yet to cut you, and you're already dripping. "

You'd shake your head in denial if you weren't able to feel your own soaked folds right now.

She has the mind-numbingly erotic audacity to grab another useless vegetable decoration and generously coat it in your wetness. The rounded tip of whatever she's pressing against your womanhood bumps your clit. She swirls it intentionally, tapping it down and circling the nub with enough pressure that you strain against your binds and whine behind the gag, wanting to beg her for more yet only drooling pointlessly.

She makes a noise like an amused snort, and when you toss your head back, you can hear her practically slurp the thing for all the flavor it has, her thumb replacing the vegetable and leisurely keeping you stimulated.

When you're able to look back, her pupils have blown wide, the black nearly drowning her acidic sclera.

" To thhhink that, ssomehow, suchh a preciouss gift would fall upon my table... Withhout notice... "

Even if you're loving the attention, heating up like a small fire -Probably enough to cook the ingredients around you- You could never have guessed the Queen would take such an intense liking to you. It feels like a dream.

" Do you wisssh to be eaten, my sssweet morssel? " She curves, shadowing you, strings of drool falling onto your neck and chest.

Her hues acquire a nearly hypnotizing quality, prohibiting you from glancing away while she toys with you. All you can respond with is frantic, vapid nodding while you grind yourself down on her finger like a mutt.

" Truly? "

" MMMhmnn!! "

Not even the gag could have curbed that whorish bleating.

" Then I will. " Vorticia grins wide enough to crinkle the edges of her eyes. " Tonight. In my chambersss. Your wissh comess true, in a way. "

You're not given enough time to rationalize anything before her touch vanishes, leaving you cold and miserable. The snaps of the Queen's fingers attract the same imp you met when this all began.

They look at you with a mixture of confusion and mild caution. " You called, Highness? "

" Yess. Run a bathh for me and my Queen to be. "

He coughs and chokes.

When your head snaps to Queen Vorticia, you find no hint of mockery on her face.

You're fairly certain one of the sauces you were doused in must be causing you to hallucinate...

[alumirp]

The Good Citizen

An AU where Izuku is just an ordinary boy. He never meets All Might and has his application for Yuuei's entrance exam rejected because of his quirkless status. He still wants to be a hero, but then again, he's just a normal kid with a mom who works two jobs, and since he failed to get into his dream school, he still has to get into another one, he doesn't have time. to go to the gym or learn to fight, or whatever. And yet, he wants to be a hero, so he grabs a pair of old skates and a stick. And he sneaks out the window at night, intending to be a vigilante.

But like a normal boy, he's a bit of a coward, so when he encounters his first crime, instead of getting involved, he calls the police. He calls the police and hides and is delighted when a police car arrives a few minutes later and does its job. And then he repeats that, goes out, finds a crime and calls the police. And repeat. And the next time, he identifies himself as "Good Citizen" when the person on the line recognizes his voice. And the name sticks. And Izuku keeps it, thinking of it as a way to keep his identity safe. But one day, 'The Good Citizen' calls the police on a group of men beating up a guy. And next he stops a man from harassing a girl.

The mens who beat the guy are part of a powerfull gang and their high-rankers discovers that the person who reported them was the same person who has been making several reports. The old man who harassed the girl was an important member of the HPSC, whose arrest creates a huge scandal

With this he successfully angers the villains and the HPSC all at once. Next week there's a bounty on 'snitch's head. And an arrest warrant for the vigilante who is 'an enemy in the making for the society of heroes'.

Then a race begins, villains and heroes mobilizing to kill/arrest one (1) well-intentioned green bean.

And, out of nowhere, this all becomes Aizawa Fucking Shota's problem.

[betterthanburrow]

Instagram AUs

all of the Instagram AUs are written for Joe Burrow.

if you want to request an Instagram AU, send the IG AU request to my Inbox and i will get the Instagram AU request published as soon as possible.

WWE’s Best Interviewer

The NFL Off-Season Life

Fashion Designer’s Boyfriend

Emails I Can’t Send

The Bengals’ Photographer

F1’s Lucky Charm

NFL Wife Dreams

Favorite Sports Girl

Super Bowl LVI

Capricorn Baby

Nurse Graduate

The Best Mother’s Day Gift

Miss CEO

Stranger Things

PopStar WAG

Top 5 Ranker

The Best Father’s Day Surprise

Bengals’ Social Media Admin

Cowboys Girl’s Luck

White Party

Mr. Quarterback and Ms. Songbird

Bengals’ Media Day Photographer

Celebrity Crush

Mr. PSL

Quarterback’s Secret Girlfriend

Eras Tour

The Little Mermaid

2023 Football Schedule

The Newest Bengals Fan

Dream Role On Broadway

Flowers and Wine

It Was Divine

Heisman Trophy Ceremony

[altocat]

How does the trio interact with lower-class soldiers (that aren't Zack)?

All three are actually nice to the lower-rankers in their own unique ways.

Angeal probably the most overtly so. He's Zack's mentor first and foremost but the Seconds and Thirds always go to him whenever they have a question or have an issue that needs resolving. Angeal prides himself on being an approachable teacher to all the younger soldiers, a father figure for them to look up to. His loss is heavily felt after his demise in Modeoheim, with many of the Seconds and Thirds privately gathering behind closed doors to mourn. It was an extremely visceral and agonizing experience for all of them, especially when Shinra branded Angeal a traitor and denied him a proper SOLDIER funeral.

Genesis can at first seem like his typical prickly, arrogant self around low-rankers. In reality, this is just to cover up his hidden sweet streak. He likes to read to them from time to time. And while he can get in a verbal jab or two if they're annoying him, he's also protective of them on the battlefield. If you need a wingman, Genesis is typically your guy. He's shamelessly fascinated at all the gossip that goes on around the office and will happily participate if you need a schmoozer to help you hook up with your dream date. Lots of the Seconds and Thirds were drawn to Genesis' charisma and chose to follow him after his desertion, though none of them (Genesis included) knew what they were getting into.

Sephiroth is typically rather grumpy and introverted, not mingling with lower-rankers whenever he's busy or anxious about something. But with that said, he's also not overly unpleasant or cruel. He just likes to get things done and he generously rewards his men based on their efficiency. While Sephiroth is the coldest of the three, he will also be the first to fight to the death to protect his fellow soldiers, using his wits to lead them across the battlefield with minimal casualties. If you can prove yourself as a competent fighter and a loyal soldier, he will encourage and foster your talents wholeheartedly. Many of the younger soldiers look to Sephiroth as an inspiration, a real leader. Sephiroth fights tooth and nail to live up to his reputation, keeping everything ordered as he guides his team. Many of the soldiers believe that Sephiroth should run SOLDIER instead of violent bullies like Heidegger. They would willingly advocate for him if he were to ever plot a regime change. But Sephiroth really just wants to retire and isn't interested.

[frugalkubal]

If my guildmates would keep on attacking me on arena that I'd eventually get ranked down from Champion to Legendary, I will no longer try to get back up to Champion; so that the guild will have one less arena ranker and thus have less points in guild ranks (like in Guild Supremacy). I might also stop giving a damn about keeping a significant rank range in Supreme Arena and Dream Realm. I mean, of all the choices of players they could attack, they chose a guildmate. Evidently, they care only about themself and not the guild, so I won't either. I don't mind getting less rewards anyway. (⁠◕⁠ᴗ⁠◕⁠✿⁠)

If the excuse is having no choice but to attack a guildmate bc the choices are all guildmates, then that's just a blatant lie. (⁠ ⁠╹⁠▽⁠╹⁠ ⁠) Seriously, that outcome is highly unlikely, unless everyone in the ranks are all guildmates — which is impossible since there are only 30 max members in a guild while there are 200 in the Champions (still impossible if we're just counting the 100 in the "safe zone"). The probability of such an outcome is so low that it would be considered improbable in a statistical sense. lol

[shadow-the-real-me]

a note to self...

I’ve always been among the smartest people in the room. During school, being among the top rankers made me think of myself like that. This misunderstanding came to an end with my meeting with the real world. After school, moving to a new city, living with total strangers, and trying to learn life and books at the same time formed this conclusion. I was a mere dumb girl, brought up in a home built on lies, feeding on immaturity. The harsh truths of life and its living might have actually added to my intelligence and emotional quotient, making me a smart individual today. It’s true. Sometimes, however, I want to go back to being that dumb, witless girl. It wouldn’t have been bad to be that annoying, army brat they call for once. To be someone who got it all because she was raised with privileges. It wouldn't have been that bad. To say it like that, I ain’t complaining. It’s just that I would have expected an ordinary life too. Since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to do something extraordinary that’ll make my name in the world. To say that it didn’t hurt me when I had to expect myself to be ‘ordinary’ will be an understatement. It hurt like hell. It’s really fascinating how life took an unexpected turn and actually labelled it somewhat similar to ‘extraordinary’. My ‘not so ordinary’ life seems like an opportunity given by the universe that watched me cry over for hundreds of days. Probably feeling pity over a talent going to waste in tears, she handed me a pen and paper to try to write it better on my own. “It’s your life; you take responsibility for the ordinary or the extraordinary," something of the sort. A fire lit up inside when my pen started to make sense on paper. I found a way to be that ‘extraordinary’ dream I dreamt all that time when I was ‘dumb’. To the smart me, I want you to dream. Dream like you used to; take your dreams to that extraordinary level because you are smart and capable, and you can if you do. As for the dumb me, I will accomplish your dream. You were right to believe all that; even if I had lost my direction for all this while, I'd make sure to bring yours to the moon. You have been an inspiration; thank you.

[theriverspath]

Ineffable May 2024 Day 13: Heavenly Hosts

I'm playing catch-up for the last few prompts, so please accept this fever dream of a crossover as my day thirteen. Rated General Audience. Spoilers for the first episode of the anime Ouran High School Host Club, maybe?

Beez packed their bag and left the library’s quiet room. Unfortunately for their plan to study there after classes, it had become anything but quiet. The background buzz of other students chatting or giggling wasn’t entirely unpleasant. It just made it difficult to concentrate on their work. A familiar dull ache in their chest accompanied their thoughts as they closed the library door.

Hey, Mom. These angels are so different than what I’m used to. I’m managing ok, I guess, but I wish you could give me some advice on what to do about it.

Their sigh and their footsteps echoed down the endless corridor of huge windows and locked classrooms. Maybe one of the club rooms was empty? Beez stopped under a sign indicating that they’d found a music room. When they didn’t hear any instruments or singing, they gingerly pushed it open and peeked inside.

The door unexpectedly swung inward, pulling them in and causing them to stumble. They wobbled back, and the door closed behind them with a solid thud. As they caught their footing, white sparkling light filled their vision. A delicate rain of rose petals floated down from the ceiling. They barely had time to register the frivolous miracle before a chorus of voices rang out.

“Welcome to the Haven Host Club!”

Beez blinked, trying to clear their vision enough to see the group of angels gathered in front of them. A pair, as opposite in appearance as two beings could be, gasped in unison. Though the timbers of their voices were different, the shocked inflections were perfectly in sync when they spoke.

“A low ranking angel?”

“Uriel, Sandalphon, that’s no way to treat a guest. Especially an honor student.” Another member of the group admonished the duo. Their calculating expression was accented by their perfectly coiffed hair and the delicate lace cuffs below their uniform jacket’s sleeves.

“An honor student? Michael, are you saying that we have the privilege of entertaining the infamous Beelzebub?” An arm draped itself over Beez’s shoulders, its hand cupping their upper arm and guiding them into the room. The brightly lit expanse was dotted with little clusters of low tables, finely crafted chairs, and elegant settees. In the middle of it all rotated a large globe. The brilliant blues and greens practically glowed underneath swirling wisps of clouds. Beez had never seen such a lifelike representation of Earth. It was almost as if it had been plucked from the actual heavens and placed here to be admired. After a moment, they realized that the owner of the guiding arm had said their name.

“Wait. How do you know who I am?” Beez looked up into a pair of shining violet eyes. They crinkled at the corners with amusement. The tall angel smiling down at them had a solid, athletic build. Dark hair was cut short, and their school uniform was immaculately tailored.

“Are you kidding? Everyone’s heard of the scrappy little scrivener striving to climb their way up the ranks.” Their voice was smooth and charismatic. It wasn’t displeasing, but it approached condescension in a way that made Beez narrow their eyes in annoyance. Before they could reply, another voice, bubbly and full of sunshine, piped up from the group.

“Yeah! You must be a hero to the other low-rankers!” A being almost as short as Beez skipped forward and clasped their hands around the arm that wasn’t currently smooshed against the other angel. “Don’t you think so, Saraqael?” That last question was directed at a stoic angel seated in a floating chair. Their only acknowledgement of being addressed was to raise a single eyebrow. A feeling of acute claustrophobia swept over Beez. What in all of creation was going on here?

“Look, I’m no hero. I’m just a regular student looking for a quiet place to study.’ They tried shifting their shoulders and raising their arm, hoping that the two beings attached to them would get the hint to let go.

“Nonsense!” The taller angel actually hugged Beez closer in a too-familiar jostle. “Not only are you trying for the academic angle, but now you’ve gathered up the courage to attempt to engage the services of our elite host club! Of course, we usually restrict reservations to Thrones, Dominions, or above. But, I think we could make an exception in your case.” The jostle was escalated by the shorter angel on their arm jumping up and down with excitement.

“Brilliant! Come sit at my table with me! I have tea all set up and ready. I’ll even let you drink out of my favorite cup! It’s so pretty to look at. Oh! My name is Muriel, by the way…” The claustrophobia turned to a rising panic.

“No! No reservation! No tea! I just need to find a quiet and empty room!” Beez wrenched their corporation backwards, and the two angels released their holds in shock. The sudden lack of support sent Beez sprawling. Their fall was broken by something large and round. They swung around just in time to see the glowing globe tip off of whatever invisible pedestal held it upright. It hit the ground and shattered. A burst of glittery shards skidded across the floor in every direction, decorating the white tiles with pieces of continent and ocean. Beez stood frozen, unable to believe what had happened.

“Oh, you’ve done it now, low-ranker.” The shorter of the two mismatched twins spoke up. The taller finished their thought. “Indeed. That globe was created using an eight million Lazuri miracle.” Beez felt their knees go weak as they realized the implications of what they’d done.

“I … I’m going to have to pay you back.” Their voice cracked as they struggled to get the words out.

“How?” Uriel and Sandalphon chimed in stereo. “There’s no way you could perform that kind of miracle with your current rank.”

“Well.” Michael leaned down to pick up a particularly pretty piece of the broken Earth. They kept their eyes on it as they straightened back up. “What do you think we should do, Gabriel?” The violet-eyed angel flashed a self-satisfied grin at the question.

“There’s only one way this aspirant academic is going to climb that steep social ladder to reach their full potential, Michael, and that’s with the help of the Haven Host Club!” Gabriel turned their attention to Beez. “That means starting today, you work for us.” The edges of Beez’s vision started to close in, narrowing to a pin-point surrounded by fuzzy black. They lost track of the beings around them as they thought, I don’t know if I can handle this, Mom. I’ve been captured by a bunch of angels that are calling themselves a host club. They felt two little pokes of someone’s finger on their shoulder, then the room quickly tilting to the side as the floor came up to meet their fainting corporation.

------

prompt list

[slovo-kvnnt]

✦HEADCANONS by

Tf2 Freakshow.✦

<×(and small drawings of my Heancanons)×>

⚠️warning⚠️.

These ARE HEADCANONS, that is, they are not really canons of the characters and it is used for PERSONAL USE. nothing here is confirmed by the creators of different Freaks. but hey thanks for watching ;).

✦Panis cupcakes may not know how to read, write or even count well, but he is an excellent piano player.

(by the way I made these drawings of the different versions of painis cupcakes, includes my Heancanon).

✦Intelligent Heavy and Vagineer are the only ones with the sense of humor of...

MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES.

✦Both Cakehole and Pi$$ are fans of Naruto. And in fact, Cakehole is the vice-president of the Otaku Club and Handsome Rogue is the president-at-large.

✦Ass Pancakes is wondering if he's really straight.

that is why both Gentlemanspy, as Spyper and even his best friend, SoupCock Porkpie often call him "bisexual Dumbass".

✦Pi$$ cakehole unlike the others, he needs glasses to see from a distance or read more comfortably. But once Cakehole grabbed his glasses and half and part of the glass broke, so he had to fix it himself, and since that day nobody touches him.

and curiously, he is in a relationship with Cbs but let's say that his relationship is something... unusual

(and they both smoke marijuana, while Cakejole prefers cocaine)

a strange mix between obsession and hate... yes hehe...

✦Polite Spy when he has a specific feeling or emotion his eyes change color depending on what emotion it is.

✦Cps smokes in the church bathroom, yes literally everyone calls him a ...

H Y P O C R I T E

EVEN ERZENGEL, Karmasolly and Dream demo (rarely, but does).

✦Allright, we all know that erzengel and cps hate each other and it's for the same reason that cbs would HAVE to BE in hell. but let's say that he only defended him from his fate and that's it, arguments, fights, dissolution, etc., but even so Brutal and Pure are friends.

✦Karma Soldier and Lord Degroot used to be best friends until one day everything changed forever ...

✦Each Freak has his sexual orientation or how that Freak identifies.

for example, Soldine IDENTIFIES AS AN ORANGE CAR- okno( but they tend to make those kinds of jokes with Ghost, MSG, Orangeman, Cyborgneer and Medizard).

(I was thinking about digitizing but due to personal problems and mere laziness, I couldn't do it, and now I realized that I didn't color the pants from CBS XDDDDDD)

✦The Spyper Red, or simply Red. And his personality is the opposite, he is someone malevolent and a professional psychopath.

✦Medizard x Cakehole pi$$ is good

✦Demo Samedi and Samedi Spy are Haitian

✦Ghost doesn't like to be called "GHOSTY" (Major and Soldine never misses an opportunity to call it that).

✦Madic has a collection of pigeons in his laboratory and one of the birds he has is a raven named Lewis, after Major Lewis.

✦Cyborspy has CyborSoldier as a sex slave. not to specify their shady situations... but for now no one knows... FOR NOW.

CyborPyro has the appearance of a woman, because once everything was destroyed. The only thing they were able to recover was his head and some small parts of it.

Cybormedic cleverly spruced up its appearance and gave it some personality and the FemCyborPyro was born. her appearance is because it would be easier to distract her enemies using her female "Methods".

Fem/CyborPyro can be identified as both "SHE" and "HE" but can also be referred to as "they" or "It"

✦Cyborscout and Drunk Monk (actually this is Canon XD) are a couple. And they're planning a wedding, they just can't decide who the best man will be.

precisely MSG and cyborneer fight over that.

✦everything you saw here is an "AU" Alternate Universe (Slovo's AU).

a world where innocent respawners and mercenaries leave the servers empty and discolored.

The pacifist Freaks are more dangerous than the feared High Ranker, but their psycho mode or "killer instinct" is disabled, of course unless you want to unleash TRUE CHAOS.

Let's assume that the real danger would be the peaceful Freaks like Cps, I.H and Politespy ESPECIALLY.

So HECU, from time to time interrogate Freaks of this type and examine their way of thinking, socializing, defending themselves, and seeing the Tf2Freaks-Wolrd in their angle view ...

"So, those idiots over there *points to all the freaks, including Soldine and the entire HECU staff* are they one step from the far future?...."

yes... but not at the same time. My AU is in the 20's post 2001. Psycho Freaks lost interest in killing due to server inactivity and are getting more and more modernized, until reaching a "current" state.

HECU Staff Documentary Narrator: Everyone is in a neutral or peaceful state for now, but they miss the good old days...

[itsuki-minamy]

"K - RETURN OF KINGS" (Novel)

CHAPTER 6: OPEN WAR

* List of Chapters

Translation: Naru-kun Raws: Ridia

When was the first time he had that dream?

When facing the "Golden King"?

When did he find out about the "Silver King"?

Or when he was picked up by Iwafune?

Hisui Nagare could not remember that moment clearly.

Before he knew it, the dream was inside Nagare. Like a replacement for his lost heart, it throbbed in Nagare's chest, driving him into action. Or, in order to force Nagare to do so, the "Slate" may have stolen his heart.

Free the "Dresden Slate" and evolve all of humanity to the next stage.

Nagare believes that this is why he became the "Green King".

Hundreds of thousands of lives caught up in Genji Kagutsu's rampage were necessary sacrifices for that.

It is his dream, his reason for being. Nagare has used everything to achieve that. The "Colorless King", the "Red King", "Jungle", Iwafune, Kotosaka, Mishakuji, Sukuna and even himself were nothing more than tools to make his dreams come true.

And now...

He is in the place where he can touch that dream.

"The execution date is the 24th, Christmas Eve."

While looking at the many information screens floating in the twilight of the "secret base", Nagare spoke with a passionate tone.

"We will use all the power we have to seize the last sacrament, the "Dresden Slate". This is the purpose of us "Jungle"..."

But...

None of the Rankers, the highest ranking clan members of "Jungle" who are Nagare's tools and limbs, saw their "King".

Iwafune was happily drinking beer.

Kotosaka stayed on the couch and got ready.

Mishakuji looked at himself in the mirror and worked on his mask.

As for Sukuna, he was lying down and engrossed in the game, not in a position to listen to people.

He didn't want to say it, but he had to. This is a very important strategy meeting. Nagare looked around and said in a monotone.

"Are you listening?"

"I'm listening, Nagare-chan. No, I have wrinkles."

Mishakuji replied as he carefully examined the condition of his face.

Nagare felt a relief. It's okay if he's listening.

"Yes, Yukari. Let's continue. Currently, the "Slate" is stored in Mihashira Tower. Originally, in my plan, after the death of the "Golden King", the "Slate", which would no longer have humans to seal it, was supposed to evolve into the entire human race, demonstrating its original function. Leaving aside the old Daikaku Kokujoji, I thought that the young and immature "Blue King" would not be able to control it, so I decided to leave it in the building..."

But...

The highest ranked Clansman and Rankers of "Jungle", who share the same dream as Nagare, were not seeing their "King".

"Are you listening? Are you?"

"I'm listening, Nagare. Wow! My level's up!"

While he was lying on his back, Sukuna clenched his fists in cheers.

Nagare agreed. If you're listening, that's fine, and it's a good thing if your level goes up.

"I see, Sukuna. Congratulations. Anyway, the "Blue King" worked harder than expected. Excellent. On top of that, the most troublesome "Silver King" came back and joined the new "Red King" to solidify the defense of Mihashira Tower. With this, we have no choice but to take the method of directly controlling the "Slate"."

Having said that, Nagare sighed quietly and reluctantly said:

"Besides, you guys haven't heard me."

"Hey. Guys, listen carefully, ok? Even with this, he's our king, right? Some respect needs to be shown."

Iwafune deftly shook the 350 ml can as he made a complaint. Opening the lid of the next beer, Nagare looked at Iwafune with moist eyes.

"You are the one who shows the least respect, Iwa-san."

"Don't get me wrong, Iwa-san."

Mishakuji smiled brightly through the mirror.

"Right now, I am refining myself so that I can dance with the greatest splendor and grace on the battlefield. My heart is already high. I am always ready to draw my beloved sword, "Ayamachi"."

"Me too."

Sukuna also smiled as he focused his gaze on the game screen.

"I do it because I can't help but feel uneasy when I'm not playing. To be honest, I know enough about what Nagare says."

"I see."

This time, Nagare understood.

They are no longer the members of it. It is his flesh and blood. Nagare thinks and expects the same.

He wants to see a new world, a beautiful world. That's why they move. Therefore, no sacrifice or obstacle is cause for concern. Iwafune, Kotosaka, Mishakuji, and Sukuna understood.

"Are you both ready? I'm impressed. So, let's have a fancy Christmas party after we safely collect the "Slate"."

"Chicken! Chicken! Juicy, delicious!"

On the couch, Kotosaka spread her wings and was happy. Nagare smiled at that first friend.

"Kotosaka, I want you to do your best too."

"Oh, then, we'll decorate the "Slate" that you'll get instead of the tree."

Mishakuji said that jokingly. Nagare doesn't really understand jokes, but even so, he felt a slight slack in his shoulders.

With that, Sukuna closed the game console with a snap and looked at Iwafune.

"For one thing, we're all in high spirits."

"Yes?"

"What about Iwa-san? Will he function properly this time?"

No wonder Sukuna wasn't satisfied. The J-Rank of "Jungle" Iwafune Tenkei had almost never done anything that felt like work. In the first place, the existence of himself was unknown to most of the clansmen.

The one who kept Iwafune a secret was none other than Nagare himself, and so Sukuna was convinced.

The next mission will be total war. He is not a lukewarm opponent who can win while he retains power.

You must put all the cards in your hand, including the "trump card", into play to reveal which one is stronger.

Faced with such a big event, Iwafune still smiled like he was crazy.

"Well, it's me. I'm slowly drinking beer like this."

"...Damn. I beg you, Iwa-san."

Sukuna said in amazement, but he didn't seem to have any intention of continuing. He also knows Iwafune's true identity, the extent of his strength. If he plays his role correctly, it will have a great effect.

Mishakuji chuckled and pointed at Nagare.

"More importantly, Nagare-chan. It's rare for you to have a proper meeting beforehand. Perhaps you think it's painful to deal with three "Kings"?"

"Haha. Well, isn't it? Hey, Nagare."

Iwafune laughed and Nagare nodded silently.

"That's right. It is true that the allied army of the "Silver, Red and Blue King" is a formidable enemy. But..."

Their union has serious flaws.

He wondered if Isana Yashiro and Reisi Munakata were aware of this.

Even if they were aware of it, they wouldn't be able to fix it. The flaw is too fundamental. If they can hit their trump card there, even if there is an overwhelming difference in strength, they would have a good chance of winning.

Nagare looked down into the gap, toward the floating hologram.

A swarm of inorganic data simply reflects reality. Nagare, whose limbs were sealed, had his first weapon, "Information". Nagare knew that deciphering it and accumulating it would lead to a dream.

And now...

His dream is within reach.

As he stared at him, Nagare silently took the last step.

"Ordered by the "Green King" authority. Mission 1224, activated."

++++++++++

As expected of "Tokijikuin", what they prepared in the basement of the Mihashira Tower was a very spacious conference room.

Being there reminds him of the "Chabudai Conference". He remembers being crammed into a room in a student dormitory until he was suffocating. Well, he was the one who suggested that, but it was still nice to have a wide space.

Coff-coff, clearing her throat, Shiro let out a cheerful voice.

"Hey. Ladies and gentlemen, thanks for joining us. How are you?"

Now, in front of Shiro, are the two clans.

One is the Red Clan, "Homura". They are sitting on the right side of the conference room, looking at him with dark eyes.

The other is the Blue Clan, "Scepter 4". They are sitting on the left side of the conference room, looking at him with cold eyes.

At them, who seemed to be slightly dissatisfied, Shiro smiled,

"It doesn't look very good. Considering my position as the "Silver King", I don't think you'll openly object, but I wonder, are you a little dissatisfied with the fact that I'm calling you over and over again?"

"Something like that."

Misaki Yata, the executive of "Homura", said so with bitterness.

"If you get it, why don't you help out a bit? We're the only ones fighting the green guys, right?!"

Yata's words are also valid, and the Silver Clan has not contributed at all to the current cleanup operation against the "Jungle" of the "Chabudai Alliance". Shiro was worried about deciphering the materials they received, and neither Kuro nor Neko would leave Shiro.

Shiro scratched his head and said, "No.".

"I don't have the words to answer when you say that, but thanks to that I got some information, so I wonder if you'll forgive me."

Then Kusanagi raised his hand.

"Uh, "Silver King". May I speak?"

"Of course, Kusanagi-san."

"First of all, the main premise is that the Green Clan will come to this Mihashira Tower to take the "Slate". There's no doubt about that, right?"

Shiro narrowed his eyes and nodded gravely.

"That's right. The "Green King", Nagaru Hisui, said so himself. That's not a hoax or a trick. It's a declaration of war against us, the "Chabudai Alliance"."

After that, he turned his gaze towards "Scepter 4".

"And if the Green Clan gets the "Slate", which the Lieutenant... no... The order in this world that the "Gold King" and the "Blue King" have worked so hard to maintain will likely collapse. At best, it would cease to be the world we know. Because..."

After taking a deep breath, Shiro announced.

"They, the Green Clan, want to give all of humanity the power of the "Slate"."

For a moment, the place was noisy.

Grant the power of the "Slate" to all of humanity. That is, all human beings will possess supernatural powers. Much destruction will be wrought by those who cannot control their supernatural powers. There are likely a myriad of people who abuse their supernatural powers. The tense expression of "Scepter 4" vividly expressed that threat. If that happens, your business will collapse in an instant.

Kusanagi looked at "Scepter 4" with compassionate eyes, then looked back at Shiro.

"Both us, the Red Clan and the Blue Clan members who are waiting, there shouldn't be a single person who doubts your status as "King". However, whether or not you have the ability and ability to wield this kind of strategy is a different matter. To be honest, I think people are worried about it."

Neko behind Shiro got irritated.

"Hmm! Shiro is amazing!"

Kuro, who was also waiting, stopped her.

"Enough, Neko. Kusanagi Izumo, it may sound like I'm being biased, but this man has the ability to do just that. He's smart, he has the ability to lead and make decisions."

"Kuro, thank you."

Shiro smiled at the trust he received from the two of them, and then turned to Kusanagi.

"And Kusanagi-san as well. I'm sure you dared to represent everyone's feelings, right? Well, the reason why I'm in command of this interception operation is simple. Because I know all about the specifications of the "Green King" Hisui Nagare."

Yata stood up as if he couldn't take it,

"Hey, you! What does that mean? I heard that the "Green King" is a guy who rarely appears? Maybe you don't even have a connection to them!"

Kuro's eyebrows rose at Yata's almost abusive words, but Shiro suppressed it with his hands.

"That's right. You're right, he keeps his own information very secret. As expected of a "King" who rules the network. His origins, appearance, abilities, age, and even gender are unknown. But there is only one person who met Hisui Nagare in person."

"What's that?"

Nodding to Awashima's soft murmur, Shiro operated a PDA.

Behind him, projected on the widescreen, was a gigantic, muscular old man with bare copper-colored skin, and a young man in a straitjacket stood before him.

Awashima let out a surprised voice.

"His Excellency?! No way, who is that person?"

"Yes. Simply put, the "Green King" Hisui Nagaru once challenged the "Golden King" Daikaku Kokujoji. And all by himself."

Once again the place was in an uproar.

Shiro operated the PDA without caring and played the video. As the "Golden King" and the never-before-seen "Green King" began to move on the screen, the shock turned into awe-inspiring silence. They all stared at the image.

Shiro continued to speak nonchalantly.

"I have all the recorded images from that time. I received the data from the Lieutenant and heard the story from the Lieutenant himself."

Awashima raised her hand as she focused her gaze on the video.

"May I speak, "Silver King"?"

"Of course, Awashima-san. And for me, Shiro, please."

"Ok, Shiro-san. Frankly, I can't believe it. Why did the "Green King" fight such a reckless battle?"

Shiro looked at the screen again.

Nagare kicked at the gravel and jumped. Shaking his claws of glowing green energy, he leaped at Kokujoji.

"Maybe he wasn't reckless. Because even though he was defeated in the end, for a while he turned the strongest "King" against him and had a close fight."

Kokujoji's fist smashed into Nagare's chest.

Nagare's body went flying like a bullet. He bounced as he drew a green trajectory, was sucked into the distant darkness and disappeared.

The video stopped there.

In the middle of the silence, someone muttered.

"Is this... the "Green King"?"

It was the first appearance of the "enemy" they saw. He is not some random clansman who gets cut if he gets caught. The culprit of all the incidents that are happening now, the figure of the enemy "King" that they must eventually face and defeat.

"Hisui Nagare's reason for launching that abnormal attack is also very strong. It's a throwaway line after losing, but he said, "I tried to challenge the big boss".'"

"He is a child!"

"What a dumb guy."

Hearing Yata and Fushimi mutter, Shiro smiled.

"That's right. Hisui Nagare is different. He plans things so carefully and meticulously that no one notices, but he also puts his childish ideas into practice. But that's why his actions are unpredictable."

Shiro went back to fiddling with the PDA. What was projected on the screen was the result of his efforts to trace Nagare's traces, a follow-up investigation of "Tokijikuin".

"Tokijikuin" is a system that is in the center of this country, and its tracking ability is as good as "Scepter 4". However, even with them, they were unable to capture Hisui Nagare's existence.

"Barely escaping from the "Golden King", the "Green King" disappeared from the main stage. The reason they haven't moved until now is because the Lieutenant was there. But the Lieutenant is gone now."

Shiro shook his head and chased away the thoughts that were about to spring from his mind.

"That's why I want to be in command of the operation this time. I also know how to defeat Hisui Nagare. The "Green King" is very strong, but he is not an opponent you can never defeat. But that requires the cooperation of all of you."

He looked around with a sincere look.

The two clans looked at each other in confusion. They can understand the importance of the information that Shiro brought, but they don't know if he is okay to hand over the command.

"But, even if you say so..."

"I will."

Anna cut him off.

"Eh?"

"Anna...?"

Kusanagi and Yata looked at Anna questioningly.

But their "Queen" did not look back at her subjects. Indifferent, and therefore with sheer determination, she spoke clearly.

"I will. I can't leave them alone."

With that alone, "Homura"'s mind seemed to have made up its mind.

Kusanagi, Yata, Kamamoto and the rest of the members, there was no one who disagreed with that determination. No one has forgotten what the Green Clan did to them.

"I see. Then you don't have to say anything else. "Silver King"... no, Shiro-san, the Red Clan will cooperate with you."

"Thank you."

At Kusanagi's words, Shiro returned a smile and turned his gaze to "Scepter 4".

"What about the Blue Clan?"

Munakata crossed his arms and was deep in thought.

Since he entered that room, he hadn't said a word. Since he has been the one who has led the fight against "Jungle" up to now, his silent attitude was even creepy.

When Munakata suddenly opened his eyes, he said in a low voice.

"It depends on the content of the strategy."

Shiro smiled. It doesn't seem to be a case of rejection. If so, there is still a chance to get cooperation.

"Makes sense. Then I'll explain it to you now, Kuro."

"I understand."

Kuro nodded, and when he operated the PDA, the image on the screen behind him changed again. What appeared there were the figures of two people.

Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna.

The rankers who are considered to be the most powerful force in "Jungle".

"In fact, it is not Hisui Nagare himself who becomes the heart of the Green Clan's battle. These two are Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna. I want you to remember their faces well. Our first goal is to prevent these two from working. Ok? For that..."

++++++++++

"Well, lately, I haven't been able to."

"Kerun" murmured as he moved the straw in his mouth.

"Jema", who was playing with his PDA, just looked up and said nothing. He continued to operate enthusiastically as if to say that there is something more important than that, and then made a small gesture with his fist.

"Ok, sure."

"Uh, what? What mission?"

Throwing away his apathetic attitude, "Kerun" leaned forward.

"No, I don't know. The mission is to send a lot of emails."

"What is that? How much are the points?"

"Five."

"Trash!"

Looking up at the sky, he exclaimed loudly and "Kerun" leaned back on the couch.

"Jema" is gloomy, but nothing to complain about. He agreed that this mission was rubbish. He tossed the PDA onto the table and leaned back against the couch.

Both are "Jungle" users.

They're both G-Rank, and they're probably around the age of college students. The reason why he went "gloomy" is that neither of them has revealed his actual age. He doesn’t even know his real name. They get along well and have the same ability, so they always hang out, but their connection is only in "Jungle", and their actual status has no meaning.

Using that restaurant as a place to hang out, they have lived a satisfying "Jungle" life, chatting about irrelevant things and going on delicious quests.

"...The other day, it failed."

"Jema" is who was talking about. "Kerun" nodded as he chewed on the straw.

"That's right. There are many users who say they lost a lot of money because of "Five"."

"The other day"... that's the full-scale mission, "Mission 2086".

"Jungle" got excited about the quest issued by the Highest Ranker, "Five". Not only was it a large-scale quest straight from a Ranker, but the points distributed were huge. They were inundated like bugs in sweet juice with quests that rewarded 100 or 200 points for just a few tasks.

Both "Jema" and "Kerun" fell into the category of those missions that made them feel good. They did something a bit illegal, but the rewards you get from this game are full of charm, regardless of the existing rules.

And yet, the reason "Mission 2086" is a bitter memory for them is because, in the end, that mission failed in the final stages.

"That's right. There was an idiot who tried to hunt the ''Red King'' and the ''Blue King'' together."

"Oh, yes, I thought it was the name of a jewel, but... because you messed it up so much, both the Reds and Blues got really angry."

"Seriously, don't be silly. And in the end, aren't we the ones who pay for it?"

The straw that he spat out rolled across the table and touched

"Jema's" PDA. "Jema" made a disgusted face and took his PDA and wiped it with a wet towel.

"Since then, most of the larger missions have failed. "Kazimun" and "Four" were also arrested."

"Really? Those guys are U-Rank dealers, right? The Blues have no mercy."

"It's better than getting caught by the red guys. Rumor has it they'll be half dead."

"Hah, not good anymore. What's that ending? Isn't it game over for "Jungle"?"

"Kerun" shrugged and said that cynically.

"Jungle" is a clan with thin ties. In a world where it is natural to use others and kick others, the sense of belonging to the clan itself is low. In the current situation where there are no delicious quests and you can get caught if you do something wrong, the worst part of the dissatisfaction goes to the official higher levels of "Jungle".

"Well, let's wait and see. Let's find another interesting game."

"Ok. Can I make a report too?"

"I've never seen you do that."

"No way, I'm doing it at home! This is probably a secret base for "Jungle". I keep my work and play separate."

At that time, the two PDAs issued a notification at the same time.

"Eh?"

"What...?"

The two looked at the PDA at the same time and stiffened.

The popup shows:

"1224 Mission Activation Emitter: H.N."

H.N.

If there is a middle or upper rank who doesn't know his name, he is definitely a fool. The abbreviation for "command name" is the name indicating the pinnacle of "Jungle", the "Green King".

"The "Green King", directly, a mission?"

"It's been years, how is that...?!"

"Kerun" and "Jema" quickly opened the application screen and began to devour the details of the mission. As the story progressed, the faces of the two became more and more red.

"What is this, aren't reward points weird?!"

"500 points for just one transport mission! He must have made a mistake!"

"No, but it's real because it has an official electronic seal! Even if something goes wrong, I'm sure the points will be paid!"

"Hey, is there something like 1000-3000 here?! Seriously, I don't know what this means, huh?!"

A little further, there was an explosion. The waitress who brought the water had dropped the tray. "Oh, sorry!" The waitress said, tilting her head, and she quickly began to pick up the broken glass, which, of course, they did not notice. There's no way you can afford to notice a petty accident when gold is scattered in front of you.

"For now, let's go! Whoever can do it in pairs will request acceptance of the mission!"

"Ok! I'll apply for the next mission now! First come, first served!"

Grabbing the slip, the two of them hastily left their seats. The bright eyes in their eyes had already removed the sense of stagnation they had felt before.

++++++++++

In the empty conference room, Shiro breathed out silently.

The strategy meeting ended successfully. Both "Homura" and "Scepter 4" agreed to follow Shiro's instructions, and most of the clansmen have now come out to take positions. The only people left in the conference room are the "Red and Blue Kings" and the business class members, such as Kusanagi, Fushimi, and Awashima.

First, the first stage.

He managed to gain the trust of his "friends". They will act according to Shiro's strategy.

However, there are still many things to worry about.

Kusanagi and Anna then approached Shiro.

"Hey, Shiro-san. I think the strategy makes sense. Let's do our best together."

Izumo Kusanagi. Shiro considers him the balancer of the makeshift "Chabudai Alliance" as an executive of "Homura". In the previous question and answer session, he took the initiative to raise questions that other members might have. Thanks to that, the exchange after that was pretty smooth.

"Thank you, Kusanagi-san."

"But are you sure? The members of the "Jungle" clan are just two people who are getting on board, what's going on?"

That question, too, was probably something that came from "Homura" instead of him. Shiro nodded.

"Yes. As I explained earlier, those two are the only people Hisui Nagare really trusts. Other members of the clan are probably used for diversionary operations to save manpower against "Scepter 4". A mission has already been launched for that purpose."

"Mission 1224" has multiple meanings. Disruption of "Scepter 4", improvement of lower clan members by dispersing a large number of points, and above all a declaration of war against the "Chabudai Alliance".

With a snort, Kusanagi looked into his PDA.

"Huh, "Mission 1224". How nice of you to let us know when you're going to hit the road to attack us."

"I thought of a line called a hook, but it probably isn't. Hisui Nagare probably won't do such tricks at this stage. On this day, he must come from the front. "Homura", together with "Scepter 4", should form a blocking line. Please, Anna."

"Leave it to me."

The little "Queen" nodded silently. Although she is a girl, the willpower that dwells in her eyes is comparable to that of any "King". The current "Red King" will surely become a good "Queen".

That's what Shiro thought, and even though it was before the battle, he felt a relief.

"...By the way, what do you think of him?"

Kusanagi suddenly said that.

Following his line of sight, Munakata was standing on the other side of the conference room.

Next to him is Fushimi Saruhiko, an executive. He looks like he was giving an order for something, but he couldn't hear it from there. However, just the cold expression in his profile left a terrible impression on him.

"He never spoke his mind. I wonder if we can trust him."

"I don't know. But it's the only way to win. That's how powerful the opponent is."

For Shiro, the "Chabudai Alliance" is a friend. Probably for Anna too.

But for Reisi Munakata, it's different. The "Chabudai Alliance" is a partner in the fight, and more importantly, it is nothing more than an "enemy of the enemy."

After completing the request, Munakata left the conference room. Looking at that back, Anna muttered.

"Reisi..."

"Furthermore, that person has been holding the "Slate" only since the Lieutenant passed away. Therefore, the load is heavy and the consumption is heavy. No wonder he is being cautious."

As he said that, Shiro also narrowed his eyes at Munakata's back.

"The "Slate" will allow humans to evolve without limit unless it is controlled by the power of the "King". Munakata-san took over the job previously done by the Lieutenant. We, especially me, must thank him."

How much weight is on his back? Despite being injured and overwhelmed, Munakata tries to carry the "Slate" alone, without anyone helping him. It is not an exaggeration to say that now that the "Golden King" is dead, the order of the world depends only on him.

That's why Shiro hopes someone will stay by his side. It would be great if there was someone he could take on, even a small part of that great responsibility. He couldn't do that himself, but even so, the "King" needed such an existence.

The "King" is also a human being.

++++++++++

"Well then, I'll give you the rest."

Munakata said that as he entered the elevator leading to the "Slate Room".

Fushimi remained silent and did not reply. Until the moment the elevator door closed, he continued to look at Munakata. Munakata said nothing more either and looked at him with a cold expression.

As the elevator began to move, Fushimi finally let out a click of his tongue.

Turning on his heel and walking down the corridor, Fushimi pondered on the order he had just received.

Since he joined "Scepter 4" until now, he has received numerous requests. There were many orders that were out of common sense, and Fushimi was able to carry them out despite his complaints. Because he could predict the importance of that order and the extent of its effect.

However, this time the order was canceled once.

Fushimi had no idea what would happen if he followed him. But Munakata must have seen it. A vision of how things will play out after that.

Because he is the "King".

They were chosen by the "Slate" and move the world itself with their superhuman macroscopic vision and abilities. Fushimi and other members of the clan are nothing more than pieces. There is no need for the cogs connecting the gigantic mechanism of the "King" and the world to understand the whole, that makes Fushimi irritated.

"If it's you, you won't hesitate."

Munakata didn't even change his expression and said it clearly. He knew he looked that way, but he was quite refreshing to be told so boldly. He even made him think that he might have gotten into "Scepter 4" in anticipation of that order.

Traitor.

Fushimi's mouth formed a smile that seemed to rise.

Excellent. Such a role is suitable for him. Not because he sees himself as such, but because it's the most effective. Fushimi decided to carry out the order.

"Fushimi."

He stopped when his name was called.

Before he knew it, Vice Commander Seri Awashima was in front of him.

"What are you doing? Hurry up and go to your post."

"I know. I'm about to go now."

The function assigned to the Fushimi post, by Isana Yashiro, was to manage the battlefield from the outer command vehicle. Analyze the information, divide the enemy and lead the battle trend as desired. Although they are not on the front line, there is no doubt that they play a very important role.

Fushimi believes that he will always be watching.

Fushimi's ability doesn't shine in a group. Fushimi's strength lies in observing, analyzing, and remotely controlling the crowd.

He can't deny what the "King" does. No, but it is also true that he is irritating.

He let out a small huff and was about to walk past Awashima.

"Wait."

Awashima stopped him again.

He wondered what it was, and when he turned his eyes, he was greeted with a questioning look.

Awashima remained silent for a moment, as if she chose her words, but when she finally opened her mouth...

"The Captain did he seem okay?"

She asked that.

"Eh?"

When he involuntarily raised his eyebrows and asked back, Awashima's cheeks were unusually red. As she muttered nonsense words like "no" and "it", her gaze wandered in the air.

"This is the decisive battle between "Jungle" and us. The Captain's condition is directly related to the success or failure of the strategy. From your point of view, is the Captain alright?"

Fushimi was stunned. He only knew one thing.

"Aside from being fine, he wouldn't do something like this if he didn't have a chance to win, right?"

"I see. You're right."

As he said that, Awashima looked down anxiously. Seeing that, Fushimi felt a pain in the side of his stomach. "King" is the same as the sky or the sea. It is beyond human control. Even if he was worried that the sky would fall, it was literally a baseless worry, but it seems that even a person as smart as Awashima couldn't understand it.

Although, the sky can fall and the sea can dry up.

There are also times when the "King" falls apart.

Still, Fushimi's conclusion remained unchanged. "King" is "King" and man is man. If the time came for him to break down, there was nothing they could do. It was just a waste of time to fight.

Even if he said that, Awashima's trembling expression would not change. Fushimi thought it was a bother, so he casually said...

"And if something happens, the Vice commander should do something about it. He seems to only trust you."

"......!"

Awashima's eyes widened and then she clenched her fists as if she was ready for something.

"Oh, it's true!"

(It's easy, this person.)

So he thought, but of course he didn't say it.

++++++++++

The sun went down and the night grew.

"Outside" is, oddly enough, Christmas Eve. The eve of the savior's birth.

Gorgeous illuminations, lively crowds, and laughing voices. That kind of happy scenery is nowhere to be found in this building. All the windows and doors are covered with steel barricades, and the interior is packed with countless barriers and traps. In contrast to the celebrations in the outside world, this place has a pre-war silence.

However, the silence gradually began to fade.

One by one, like a flash of light in the darkness of the night, those reports were sent to the Mihashira Tower.

A mysterious group is holding a mask parade in Yodomiya.

It is said that a threatening letter was sent stating that a bomb had been planted in the Tsubakimon government office building.

According to legend, a robbery by a masked group occurred in Shizume.

All these are psychic crimes that "Scepter 4" should deal with. According to the protocol that Munakata had promulgated beforehand, those crimes should be solved by the ordinary members. He doesn't know how it turned out in reality. The Special Forces, who can quickly respond to unforeseen circumstances, cannot move from that location now.

If this place is controlled, this country, no, the order of this world will collapse.

And then the vanguard appeared without being too flabbergasted.

"In front of the main gate, the members of the Green Clan, Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna, have been seen!"

A surveillance camera attached to the front door showed their appearance. One is a small child and the other is a tall young man. Both steps are light, and not the slightest tension can be seen to go to the decisive battle now. As if enjoying a night walk, the two of them slowly approached each other.

A green blade flashed in Sukuna's hand.

"I'm going to hurry up!"

Like a wolf unleashed, Sukuna began to run. The close-up of Mishakuji and Kotosaka, they noticed the camera and smiled and waved their hands, and then the surveillance camera footage stopped.

"It seems that all 4 surveillance cameras have been destroyed!"

A rippling wave of agitation swept through the "Scepter 4", which surrounded the invaders inside the main gate. The "Silver King" had already predicted this situation, but even they had doubts as to whether it would come true.

"From the front... How reckless."

"That's why we have confidence in our power."

Hearing voices whispering one after the other, Awashima stepped forward and raised her voice.

"They're coming... All members, draw your swords!"

"Yes!"

On command, the members of the Special Forces unleashed their sabers. The experts who have dealt with numerous crimes with supernatural powers stared at the front door with a tense expression.

Suddenly, the front door exploded.

Two shadows rushed forward, easily breaking through the fire shutters reinforced with military barricades. Gojou Sukuna and Mishakuji Yukari. They are the two best ranked rankers that "Jungle" has.

Mishakuji walked with magnificent steps as if he had just appeared at a party.

"Merry Christmas! I have come to receive the "Slate"."

"So number 2, Seri Awashima, is the only one who seems to be able to score points!"

Saying that with a horrible smile, Sukuna rushed straight towards Awashima. Of course, Awashima has nothing to fear. Gojou Sukuna, who emphasized "points", was already expected to target her. She didn't mean to come up with a silly game, but if she limits the other person's actions, she'll use it.

"All Members! The Match Begins!"

"Yes!"

Special Forces are deployed to the left and right of Awashima. Surrounding Sukuna from three directions and defeating him. Seeing the absolutely unfavorable situation, Sukuna smiled like a warrior beast.

"Scepter 4" misjudged Gojou Sukuna's characteristics. He wasn't just a battle junkie who liked to fight. Unfavorable battles and boss battles with a high degree of difficulty are the most exciting. Sukuna was that kind of player.

++++++++++

A loud sound coming from below marked the beginning of the battle.

Explosive sounds, crushing sounds and cutting sounds The sounds are so diverse that it is hard to believe that there are only two enemies. The situation below can be monitored from where Shiro is, but so far the damage is progressing within the expected range.

Standing next to Shiro and looking at the monitor, Kuro said in a low voice.

"Looks like it's started."

The images on the monitor clearly conveyed the inferiority of "Scepter 4". Unable to withstand Sukuna's attack and Mishakuji's sharpened offensive, it seems they were falling behind.

"Shiro. I have absolute confidence in your strategy, but is it alright? Leave the first floor alone to the Blue Clan."

Shiro silently shook his head at Kuro's concerned question.

"As I explained in the strategy meeting, the first thing we should do is interfere as much as we can with those two... the envoys of the "Green King". Their goal is to reduce our strength. We'll do the opposite. I told Awashima-san to fall back at an appropriate point. It's okay."

As if she heard Shiro's words, Awashima started issuing retreat orders on the monitor. Withdraw in an orderly manner while maintaining formation. This is a feat that would not be possible if it weren't for "Scepter 4", which focuses on control tactics.

"The real thing is when the "Green King" comes out. Conversely, does that limit the amount of time the "Green King" can move?"

"That's right. That "King" is certainly close to being the strongest. I don't know if I, the "Blue King", and the "Red King" could win even if we try our best. No, on the contrary, I think it can even overwhelm the people in this building by itself. However, it doesn't take long for it to exert its power. In a nutshell..."

Shiro raised a finger.

"If we exhaust everyone and let the "Green King" run out of time, we win. If they reach the "Slate" before time runs out and steal it, we lose."

"I see."

Kuro nodded silently, and then Neko appeared.

"Hey, Shiro. It's kind of funny."

Kuro lowered his head in amazement.

"What are you talking about?"

"Because there's Shiro and Kurosuke. All together. They're all working so hard together. Wagahai, my heart feels tight."

Then, Neko opened her arms and hugged Shiro and Kuro together.

"I think it's alright. Nyahahaha."

"My gosh, you're such an airhead as always."

Kuro laughed helplessly, and Shiro also hugged Neko's body and laughed.

"Yes. That's right. We're all good together. Let's celebrate Christmas in a big way."

"Yes!"

Neko's energetic response echoed with the sounds of the battle below.

(Yes. It's okay. It should be okay.)

With a smile on her face, Neko desperately tried not to listen to the voice that echoed from within.

From below, the sounds of the battle can be heard endlessly. The blues are fighting the greens. They're going for them, she believed. As for the blue ones, frankly speaking, Neko didn't like them very much, but now she wants them to do their best. She wishes them good luck, and she wants them to win.

She wants the greens to get out of there.

The sound of battle was getting closer. To Neko's ears, they sounded like footsteps. The sound of "it" approaching. An "it" with an eye that never loses even the slightest hole, far away.

She heard it from inside her. It is the sound of knocking on the door. Inside her, a door that shouldn't exist was being knocked on. Someone was trapped there. She walked out of here, screaming to remember, knocking on the door.

Neko pretended not to hear it.

She put more strength into her arms that hugged them both. Otherwise, she wouldn't be able to keep smiling. Like a child huddled in her house waiting for the thunder to stop, she went still and rigid.

++++++++++

At some point, the excitement of the battle began to turn to frustration.

As Sukuna advanced, the enemy fell back the same distance, maintaining their formation. At first, Sukuna realized that was just a ruse.

As proof of this, no one has yet beaten the other player. The damage is dealt steadily, but just as they are about to finish, an exquisite obstacle appears.

Even now, as he was about to stab the collapsing blues with a sickle, another one rushed in from the side.

"Scepter 4". Vice Commander, Awashima Seri, is the most troublesome, Sukuna clucked. She carefully observed the overall situation of the battle and made accurate and quick decisions. If it weren't for Awashima, the enemy camp would have collapsed long ago.

In that case, he would just finish that first.

"Yukari! It's Awashima!"

When he gave an order to attack from the left, Mishakuji turned from the right with the same breath. Sukuna cornered Awashima with explosive acceleration using the extraordinary "Burst Dash" application. Sukuna bared his teeth and smiled as he brandished his scythe.

"I'll get those points!"

At that moment, Awashima screamed.

"Now, Fushimi!"

Along with multiple ejection sounds, his vision was dark and blocked. The acceleration of "Burst Dash" couldn't be stopped right away, and Sukuna lost his balance from being caught by it and rolled awkwardly on the ground.

"Dammit, what is this?!"

He swung his scythe blindly and tried to cut it, but couldn't even move his limbs. Just when he realized it was a catching net, he heard Mishakuji's voice from outside.

"Don't move if you don't want to hurt yourself, Sukuna-chan."

Almost at the same time that he cringed, several sword flashes ran and his vision opened up brightly.

The net that was cut to pieces by Mishakuji's sword danced around Sukuna, who was on his buttocks. Mishakuji snorted at Sukuna, who was frozen with wide eyes.

"Are you okay? Shall I give you a hand?"

"No!"

Red-faced, Sukuna stood up and readied the scythe again.

While Sukuna was being restrained, the opponent was setting up their formation. Retreating further into the hallway from the front door, Awashima yelled.

"Come on!"

The reason why the blood rushed to his head was because he was aware that she had once exposed him to something unpleasant.

"You make me sick! You're a small-time character though!"

Mishakuji's high-pitched voice stopped Sukuna, who was about to use the extraordinary app again.

"Sukuna! Don't chase her!"

"But!"

"You know where we should be heading right?!"

Mishakuji pointed a finger above his head, and Kotosaka also flapped his wings in agreement.

"Up, up!"

"Our job this time is to pave the way for Nagare-chan, who can only fight for a limited time."

He clicked his tongue. He was maddening, but it was just as Mishakuji said.

"It's certainly not the time to use resources in a place like this."

He took a deep breath and regain his composure. It was none other than his own mistake that he got caught up in the opponent's plan. Mistakes are mistakes, and repeating them without understanding them is hopelessly clumsy. Thinking so, Sukuna once again directed his attention to "Scepter 4".

They all held up their sabers and turned their eyes full of fighting spirit towards them. But they never tried to attack them themselves.

With just that, it seemed that the intentions of the other side could be seen. Don't attack aggressively and set up a trap while blocking that attack. It's a perfect delay tactic. Sukuna clicked his tongue again at that impatience.

Mishakuji smiled slightly and took a step forward.

"Fufu. You seem to be making a lot of plans, but it's no use. After all, you are the bright green of "Jungle" and the beautiful flowers that bloom there are my food."

Mishakuji struck a strange pose as he moved his body like a stage actor.

"It's only a foil!"

He exclaimed very happily.

Feeling embarrassed to see his partner's embarrassment, Sukuna turned his gaze to "Scepter 4", but there was no one there. Even though Mishakuji is in his own world, they will probably go ahead with his own tactics.

"Oh, yes. Let's move on."

After saying that and starting to walk, Mishakuji stopped his pose as if nothing had happened and followed Sukuna. Sukuna started heading towards the stairs as he thought about how he could do something like that, even though he had full confidence in his abilities.

++++++++++

"Seriously, you have a useful power, the new "Red King". With this, you can communicate without worrying about the intervention of the green ones."

Putting a red marble in his palm, Shiro muttered so.

The red marble pulsates slightly and emits a slight heat. This marble, which all members of the "Chabudai Alliance" have, is the medium for Anna's network of supernatural powers.

Not only images and sounds, but also thoughts can be transmitted instantly. This power, which was like an expansion of Anna's sentience when she was Strain, was the cornerstone of this operation.

If the other side is winning with individual strength, it is a good plan to suppress it with numbers and cooperation.

With his eyes closed, Shiro spoke to the marble with his mind.

"Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna have launched an invasion. Everyone, please follow the plan, ok?"

That voice reached Anna's consciousness and spread throughout the "Chabudai Alliance". The members of "Homura" lift their spirits. Although out of print, "Scepter 4" still has a strong fighting spirit. And...

Munakata, who was motionless in the "Slate Room", looked at Shiro through the net.

"Now. If possible, I would like things to go according to Isana Yashiro's plan."

Shiro smiled wryly. There was no anger. When the line is drawn so clearly, it's quite refreshing.

Also, apart from Munakata, Shiro had a firm trust in him. Maintain order in this world and strive for its functioning. Reisi Munakata, who tries to do it out of a sense of responsibility rather than selfishness, is similar to Daikaku Kokujoji.

The fact that Munakata is standing on the last line is a great relief for Shiro. As he said, if things go according to Shiro's expectations, then it's fine. Even if something unexpected happens, it will definitely happen. As long as Hisui Nagare isn't stupid, Munakata will do something about it. Somewhat irresponsibly, Shiro decided to think so.

And now...

The image of a "Jungle" member breaking through a blocking net that was placed ten and twenty times in a straight line appeared in Shiro's mind.

"Mishakuji, Gojou, both, captured by the security camera on the 10th floor!"

"I understand. Manually activate the defensive equipment inside Mihashira Tower as planned."

At the same time, in the command car of "Scepter 4" that was waiting outside, the scene of two members dealing with them fiercely was also sent.

Fushimi Saruhiko and Enomoto Tatsuya. He is an information warfare expert on "Scepter 4". Of course, he is no match for Hisui Nagare, who controls the electronic network, but even so, within this limited local network, he can carry out operations without interference from him.

"Entrapment 10-E +3, +4, F -4."

"Normal Entrapment Deployment Confirmation!"

"It's a whole course in suspended ceilings, traps, and electric shock. Please dance at least."

After taking control of Mihashira Tower, the numerous barriers and traps created were activated one after another by Fushimi and Enomoto. Enomoto glanced sideways at Fushimi's smiling face.

But...

"Everything is broken!"

Those obstacles didn't seem to stop him. As he brandished his sword while humming, Mishakuji easily broke through the barricades that stood in his way and the traps that attacked him. It was like navigating an uninhabited field.

The smile disappeared from Fushimi's face and he clicked his tongue.

"Tsk. After all, this level won't stop you. So..."

Again, Fushimi began to write at breakneck speed. He was trying to catch Mishakuji and Sukuna jumping on the hierarchical map like tops with his fingertips.

"Entrapment 11-D -3, -4, -5, 2-S +4, +5, 9-Z full yards."

In the video, traps that are a bit more radical than before (flash grenades, rubber bullets, high-pressure water cannons, and tear gas bombs) appear one after another and attack the two of them. Mishakuji and Sukuna turned left and right and began destroying the traps while repelling and dodging those attacks.

But that's what they're there for.

As Fushimi pressed the last key, a huge blind came down, dividing the room in two. In the video, Sukuna and Mishakuji stopped their feet and turned to the shutter in surprise. Multi-alloy reinforced shutters block even tank shells. Not even they can break it.

"Entrapment Deployment Confirmed! Mishakuji, Gojou, both have been successfully separated! However, the damage seems to be extremely small for both of them."

"Monsters."

Fushimi spat that out. According to the plan, he was supposed to wear them down a bit more, but it didn't seem to be going so well. Fushimi began selecting the traps to activate next as he called out their predicted routes that had started moving again.

Those shows were fully shared with "Homura" who was waiting upstairs.

Anna's heightened sense makes it, like different parts of a single body, tied to a vast consciousness. If "Homura" is the right hand, "Scepter 4" is the left hand, one of Fushimi's fingers.

Lighting a cigarette and exhaling purple smoke, Kusanagi said in admiration.

"A plan to divide and guide two powerful individuals individually, surrounding and exhausting Gojou Sukuna with our Red Clan and Mishakuji Yukari with our Silver Clan. It would not have been possible without Fushimi's ability to master and perfectly operate the security equipment of this building. Right, Yata-chan?"

The dialogue pointed towards him and Yata turned irritated.

"Kusanagi-san. I even admit that he has his skills in this."

Fushimi was removed from the combatant list this time because his information processing ability was outstanding even among the "Chabudai Alliance". Although he has Anna's support, he has so far been able to guide those two non-standard people. It's "Homura's" job, to do the "finish off" after leading them.

"More importantly, was it about time? Is the child in charge of us coming?"

"Really. That's all thanks to Shiro. That brat owes me a lot."

With a fighting spirit on his face, Yata slammed his fist into his palm. Fushimi support is annoying but useful. If he failed to defeat the cornered enemy, he doesn't know what kind of disapproval he would do. With that thought, Yata turned his gaze towards the direction the enemy was supposed to come from.

At that moment, the barricade was cut into a cross.

"Here we go!"

With a warning voice echoing, Yata charged the staff in his hand with red supernatural power.

A tall shadow appeared from behind the clouds of smoke.

"Eh?"

To all appearances, he was not a child. For some reason, the man whose entire body was drenched with water brushed his hair as if to remove the dripping water droplets and looked at them.

"Oh? Are you my partner?"

Saying so, Mishakuji Yukari pointed his sword at him.

"Hey! This is not the brat, Saru!"

When he involuntarily yelled, the counter argument returned without delay.

"Each of these guys is strong against nonsense. I was able to lead him somehow, but it's a mistake to the extent that the opponent is different! If you have any complaints, go ahead and do it yourself!"

"Well, that's correct."

Shortly, Kusanagi found himself next to Yata. With a lighter in hand, his lips smiled, but his eyes didn't. He was ready for battle.

"Nothing will change if you "suppress one". Or else, Yata-chan, why don't you try your best if you're not dealing with children?"

"Tsk! Shit, I get it!"

Gritting his teeth in frustration, Yata was still holding his staff. As Kusanagi said, he can't choose who is his opponent. His role is to defeat the enemy in front of them.

"Get ready, you green bastard! We won't let you through here!"

"Yes. I'm looking forward to it!"

With a happy smile, Mishakuji ran straight ahead and Yata gripped the staff tightly.

++++++++++

The noise began to enter Anna's otherworldly web.

Perhaps because the Red Clan has begun to fight in earnest, they are worried about her support. Shiro's spirit is sensitive to how turmoil is transmitted as waves. Not surprisingly, he believed her. Even though she is a "Red King" and she is determined to fight, this was the first time she had fought an enemy equal to or better than him.

"Well, our turn is almost here."

When Shiro said in a low voice, Kuro nodded.

"Mishakuji and Gojou will be held by the entire clan, including the "King". And when the "Green King" arrives, the three "Kings"... "Silver", "Red" and "Blue" will fight against him. Surely there is no other way than this. But..."

A slight shadow fell over his expression. Shiro tilted his head and asked.

"Kuro, what's wrong?"

"Don't think I'm being foolish. If I were stronger, at least if I could fight Mishakuji Yukari on equal footing, you'd be able to fight more easily."

"Kuro."

Shiro touched Kuro on the shoulder.

"I've only heard the story, but I don't think you're inferior to Mishakuji Yukari."

"But you also said that back then."

Kuro asked back with a doubtful face. At that time, Shiro had just returned to Gakuenjima. In fact, Shiro said something to the effect that it would be easier if Kuro could compete with Mishakuji. Astonished, Shiro pondered on whether he had been worried about it for a long time.

"That was a joke. And I also said that you weren't doing your best."

Kuro was upset.

"What do you mean? I certainly did my best to deal with it. I didn't mean to cut corners."

"Yes. At that time, you still couldn't use your true power as a member of the Silver Clan."

"Silver...?"

"I certainly made you a member of the clan. But that's it. It didn't get to the point where we could use the Silver power, our supernatural ability. But now…"

Shiro put extraordinary powers into his own hands. A shimmering silver aura was transmitted from that hand to Kuro's shoulder, and Kuro's eyes widened in surprise.

"This is...?!"

"Kuro. The only thing you could use was the colorless ability. There's no way you can win against Mishakuji Yukari who uses two colors. With my power, you'll be able to fight him on equal terms for the first time."

It was as if the Silver power had turned into Kuro's self-confidence. As he confirmed the supernatural power that filled him, Kuro looked back at Shiro and nodded forcefully.

Shiro smiled quietly and added.

"Besides, I'm sure you'll really show your power more."

At that moment, Neko who had taken the form of a cat at his feet suddenly raised her head. She returned to her human form and let out a voice full of vigilance.

"Shiro! Something's getting closer!"

At last the time has come. He was ready and he had nothing to fear. Even if the opponent is the strongest Clansman.

"Is it Mishakuji Yukari? Neko. If the parrot is with him, I'll leave him to you."

"Yes! Leave it to me! I'll eat him like Christmas chicken!"

The moment the Neko bravely said that, the shutter at the entrance of the room was destroyed with a crash.

Through the hole, a small figure slowly entered. A child. Bracing a scythe with a glowing green blade on his shoulder, he looked around vigilantly.

Shiro frowned and said in a low voice.

"It's not Mishakuji Yukari. Is it Gojou Sukuna?"

In response to that voice, Sukuna looked at him. A belligerent smile appeared on his lips.

"Oh! He's the "Silver King"! I didn't expect the last boss encounter here. He was irritated with so many traps, but I'm lucky!"

"Shiro, let's do it!"

Neko, who was ready for battle, yelled and Kuro drew his sword silently. Seeing that, Sukuna's smile deepened even more. Even though it was three against one, and one of them was the "King", there was not a trace of fear in his expression, as if he was enjoying the difficulty.

"I'll make Nagare have one less thing to do. It's time to earn a lot of extra points, "Silver King"!"

"Don't believe it!"

Kuro yelled and ran off. Sukuna waved the scythe at him in response. As he looked at the two clansmen who began to fight violently, Shiro's thoughts were spinning at high speed.

However, Mishakuji Yukari and Gojou Sukuna, the two members of the clan, do not have the same abilities. Mishakuji is clearly stronger. That's why the plan was to have the silver team, including a skilled "King", against him.

It collapsed. Although war is always accompanied by unforeseen circumstances, now they must anticipate the consequences of that situation.

What about the Red Clan?

Though aware of the marbles in his hand, Shiro thought of the other clan, "Homura", that he had to deal with the powerful enemy that he was supposed to be in charge of.

++++++++++

A few minutes after the battle began, "Homura" began to fall apart.

Mishakuji's attack was like lightning. By the time he seemed to arrive, he had already made up his mind. Several clansmen had already passed out and were lying on the ground. They weren't dead, but getting back into combat would be difficult.

"Bastard!"

Yata's skateboard sped up, transforming anger at his friend's defeat into speed. Rotating the flames wrapped around the staff, Yata attacked Mishakuji with the same momentum.

With a smile on his face, Mishakuji took it smoothly.

"Tsu...!"

"It's a good hit. But momentum alone won't do anything."

Swaying, Mishakuji's sword swayed as if carrying a mist. The pressure on the rod instantly disappeared and Yata felt as if all his hair stood on end. His intuition as a fighter who had been through many a rough patch told him exactly what would happen next.

Be killed.

It was Kamamoto who saved Yata from that prediction.

"Get away from Yata-san!"

With an aura pouring out from his entire body, Kamamoto launched himself into a desperate stance. The sight of a red-hot giant crashing into him is like a volcanic bomb.

Mishakuji narrowed his eyes and instantly stepped back. Kamamoto's gigantic body passed through an empty space and buried itself in the wall, creating radial cracks.

Kamamoto said out loud as he looked at Mishakuji.

"Are you alright, Yata-san?"

"Oh. You saved me, Kamamoto!"

"Hmm, I see."

Swinging his sword, Mishakuji slowly looked around the room.

While Yata and Kamamoto dealt with Mishakuji, other clansmen surrounded him. All of them were looking at Mishakuji with angry eyes.

Facing a look of anger and hostility, Mishakuji opened his arms quite happily.

"It's obvious, but it's very different from the blue boys. Even if you get hurt or fall, you'll never break and your life will shine even brighter... Fufu."

With a heartbreaking smile on his lips...

"You are beautiful!"

"Go away! Guys!"

Almost at the same time as Kusanagi's order, Mishakuji kicked the ground.

If he hadn't pushed the skateboard behind him, he probably would have been knocked over. Yata barely managed to parry Mishakuji's attack, which shot out as he spun, then turned his back on him and began to run. Kamamoto shook off his giant body and followed.

"Yata-san, it's dangerous, it's dangerous, it's dangerous!"

"Shut up and run!"

"My God, didn't you let me in?"

From behind, Mishakuji, still smiling, chases after him. Yata ground his teeth as goosebumps rose on his neck. It is completely true what the enemy said, and it is too uncomfortable to run away with a tail between your legs, even though you have fought so hard. But...

"Hurry up, Saru!"

Several blinds fell behind Yata and Kamamoto, as if they had heard the words shot into his head. Kamamoto looked back with a relieved expression.

"Hey, good! With this, for a while..."

The shutter broke and Mishakuji ran inside. Carrying a mysteriously shining sword and running while smiling charmingly, he has a terrifying beauty that is far from human.

The two fled again with all their might.

Behind Yata and Kamamoto, multiple layers of shutters blocked him. These obstacles last less than a few seconds. Mishakuji's sword pierces shutters 1, 2, and 3.

The fire bullets fell like shotguns that attacked Mishakuji.

"You failed."

Although he was taken by surprise, Mishakuji's reaction speed was still amazing. He quickly swung the sword to knock down all the bullets. Then, alert, he lowered the point of his sword and looked at the man who shot the flame.

Correcting the misalignment of his sunglasses, Kusanagi said in a relaxed tone.

"My young man, will you be with me?"

With a laugh, Mishakuji pointed his sword at Kusanagi.

"So, will you be my partner?"

"No… sorry about that."

Kusanagi turned around. The shutter came down again as if to cut into his back.

In a room surrounded by shutters on all sides, Mishakuji shrugged as he still held his sword.

"It's really endless... It's not beautiful to blatantly waste time."

++++++++++

"Shit! This guy!"

Sukuna jumped again as he echoed evil.

In terms of speed alone, Sukuna could surpass Mishakuji Yukari. Irregular feints. Kuro's body reacted precisely to him approaching while preparing irregular feints. Sukuna's scythe attacked from the right, but Kuro's sword "Kotowari" stopped it and repelled it.

(My body is light... Is it because Shiro is next to me?)

Kuro's eyes widened as he saw the sword glowing silvery white. The power that springs from the depths of the body resides in the sword inherited from his master. As if to congratulate Kuro who became a member of the Silver Clan.

He thought so. This is what he wanted. He can fight for his own master. He is now standing in a place that the powerless young Kuro could never reach.

Instinctively, Kuro looked at the sword with a silver aura.

(Ichigen-sama, I am...!)

"Don't look away!"

Seeing that as an opportunity, Sukuna continued to attack. But...

"Neko!"

"Yes!"

As Neko activated his supernatural power, silvery-white bubbles began to bubble around Sukuna. Sukuna tried to shake off the waves of foam rising from under his feet and tried to get rid of it with his sickle.

"What is this?!"

That is exactly the gap. Kuro quickly approached and roughly pushed Sukuna's body with the scabbard he was holding in one hand. Sukuna twisted his body to avoid it, but all he could do was change the angle. He was shocked as he was, he rolled backwards on the ground, but immediately got to his feet.

Sukuna yelled in anger and fatigue.

"Dammit! You coward!"

"Hmph. Say what you want."

"Ah, Shiro looks bad."

Shiro and Neko lashed out with light banter, and Kuro pointed the tip of "Kotowari" directly at Sukuna. The three members of the Silver Clan are organically cooperating and supporting each other. Sukuna was his only opponent and he didn't feel like losing at all.

Suddenly, the smile disappeared from Shiro's face. Turning his Japanese umbrella around, he turned his cool gaze on Sukuna.

"Well, your activities have ended. As a fighting force, you will surely be crushed here."

Sukuna was overwhelmed by the intimidating feeling of a "King" that was unimaginable from his usual gentle demeanor.

He yelled out loud to cheer himself up.

"Do not be silly!"

In a fit of rage, Sukuna attacked Shiro with even more violent movements than before. The blow was blocked by Kuro, who immediately stepped forward. He wasn't going to let his fingertips touch Shiro. It became the sword of the "King", and it moves like a shield. At that, Kuro felt joy well up from the depths of his body.

++++++++++

The wheels of the wheelchair creaked as they rolled across the marble floor.

Hisui Nagare, who had advanced to the center of the hall, looked up silently. Various sounds can be heard from the upper floor, which has been converted into an atrium. The sounds of crashing, breaking and running. Combat sounds.

Iwafune, standing next to him, spoke as if he were someone else's problem.

"Oh, you're also surprisingly good at it."

Nagare closed his eyes and tried to activate his supernatural power. Most of the electronic networks have been removed from that building, but some are still alive. He tried to control it and check the situation of the battle.

But he changed my mind.

Now he's there.

He's not the person he was when he could only look out from his underground hideout. If he feels like it, he can go anywhere. He can see the world with his own eyes, not an image as a collection of light particles.

That made him so happy that he trembled.

"Right now, the status is around 70% clear. You're a little early, Nagare."

Nagare denied those words in a calm voice.

"No, it's not too soon. I'm here to fight."

"Eh?"

Iwafune, who questioned him curiously, guessed everything just by looking at Nagare's profile.

The appearance is nothing more than the usual deadpan. However, inside, the excitement and enthusiasm of a child impatiently waiting for an excursion is about to overflow. For a long time, Iwafune, who had been with Nagare as father and son, understood that very clearly.

Iwafune said with a sigh.

"Hey, there are three "Kings" waiting for you upstairs, you know? Wait a bit longer until Yukari-chan and the others make a route."

"I'm not going to wait."

Iwafune laughed as if he had given up at Nagare's stubborn insistence.

"At this rate, you can't even hear Iwa-san, who is a surrogate father?"

"Affirmative. I will act selfishly."

"Fufu, it's time to rebel. Alright, let's go."

Nagare looked at Iwafune and smiled.

"Thank you, Iwa-san. I am grateful to you."

And so, Nagare stood up and looked up again.

There is an enemy ahead. His enemy. Enemy of "Jungle".

Hisui Nagare never had ill will towards them. He recognized the power of their as a "King", and even respected one of them.

But still...

"It is true that the combined forces of the "Silver King", "Blue King", and "Red King" are powerful. But if it is me..."

There was no wavering in the confidence that he was the strongest.

"It's an easy win!"

Then, Hisui Nagare opened his arms.

He easily broke through the straitjacket that wrapped around his body and unleashed all the supernatural powers that were sealed.

Picking up his wheelchair, Nagare began to run. Due to the "alteration" power that overflows from his body, his body transforms into lightning. With a trail of green glow, Nagare disappeared up the stairs, bounding up and down like an unleashed beast, or like a happy child.

"Well, you can enjoy it as much as you want."

The expression on Iwafune's face as he watched with narrowed eyes was just like his father's.

[aciddaffodil]

Summer 2024- What I Dropped

Wistoria : Wand and Sword

I was so here for this anime; the animation is stellar and magic society interesting. A very simple concept of MC wanting to be with his childhood friend but doesn't have a lick of magic. Cool- until there's no likeable characters and it just feels like its showing off flashy sakuga fight scenes. Not to mention the fucking fantasy racism with the dwarves which is just...gross? Who knows, I may binge the rest of it once its fully out? I definitely want to try watching it again.

No Longer Allowed to Live in This World

A Dazai-like Sensei character does not successfully die by double suicide with his beloved and is reincarnated into a fantasy world. He constantly uses his power of negativity and absorbing sleeping pills/poisons as his ability against monsters. Everyone fawns over him, and he can offer some good advice...on occasion. I just didn't see the point to keep watching it and dropped it after 5 episodes.

Failure Frame

The Isekai(?) Overpowered MC who is dark and edgy and wants to cause ruin upon the Goddess who brought him to this fantasy world, and most of his classmates who abandoned him to die as a "low" ranker with skills that cause harm. What bothered me most was 1) the 3D CG shots just don't blend and make all the monsters look awful and its BLAUGH and 2) having to hear about men npc's wanting to rape a female npc character just is annoying and gross.

Plus-Sized Elf

I think the only thing noteworthy is all the workout advice in it- of which I won't retain anything of it and the plus-sized fanservice exists. I personally just didn't want to waste my time with it anymore even though the episodes are short.

2.5-Dimensional Seduction

It was a cute nerdy experience of them first meeting but honestly, I did not vibe with this show. I'm sure this show is enjoyable, as people have compared it to Dress Up Darling and like it.

The Ossan Newbie Adventurer, Trained to Death by the Most Powerful Party, Became Invincible

I gave this like 5 episodes? But finding out the dude is actually super over-powered and not just trained to death...was disappointing. For a trashy fantasy series, it was pretty good and fun to watch. I just have a habit of rage quitting if something frustrates me or if you listen to how cheesy and horrendous this opening is, that will do it as well lmao. Rick and Raenette's friendship is really sweet. I think him having the same dream as these S-tier adventurers is cool and I do hope they achieve their goals by the end of the series.

Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?

I attempted to watch this 3 times, but it kept putting me to sleep so I dropped it.

Narenare Cheer for You

The only P.A. Works anime I've ever dropped. It was because of how irritating the line art is in color and how ALL the outlines of literally everything is in color. And when it comes to specific scenes, it gets muddled and that's why I couldn't stomach it past 2 episodes. I'm sure it's a cute cheerleading anime but the style of it was awful to me personally. WHY CAN"T THERE BE CRISP OUTLINES WHYYYYYYY.

Tasuketsu- Fate of the Majority

Ah yes, death games premise and where deaths aren't permanent cause you can ask a question and have loopholes which take away from the emotional impacts some character deaths have. I.e., the protagonist's best friend who came to life again with no reasoning behind it. The rules are so dumb but the power system interesting, I just didn't care to keep watching.

____________________________________________________________

It is frankly terrifying how much anime I'm keeping up with this season...my count is at 26 and even the most mediocre I have brainwashed myself to not give up on cause they all have some sort of redeeming factor. CURSES.

[eldritch-spouse]

How dangerous are sloth demons? I kinda have some idea knowing how Katia and Zizz are.

Do they get a buff in strength and all when the time comes for it? As in they get unusually strong and agile for a short period of time? Do they use psychological warfare and debuffs such as making someone low-energy like Zizz does?

-👾

Sloth demons appear to be the most passive of demon folk because of the fact that they're very sedated in nature. You don't usually see them going ham and attacking people, they don't typically sport very nefarious appearances. In fact, they tend to be soft(er) and have small horns, blunter teeth, smaller claws... They're like the cuddle bears of demons, essentially. The damage a sloth demon inflicts is subtle at first, but by the time you begin to notice something's truly off, it tends to be already too late. You could say they're stealth predators on that regard.

Being in their vicinity for a prolonged amount of time can result (if they want) in a gradual sapping of your overall energy and motivation, which is definitely a form of feeding for sloth demons, it's their main way of sustaining themselves (although, unlike concubi, they can also gain some energy from regular food). It doesn't stop at the physical level, as they start chipping away at your empathy, determination and values, essentially throwing you into depressive episodes where most things cease having any sort of importance. You just want to sleep. You're always tired. There's nothing worth being awake for. You don't even have enough energy to get this stranger out of your home- You don't care. You'll whither away, neglecting emotional and basic needs, until you're nothing but a husk that can't offer them anything else. And then you're left to die, crushed under the demon who has been feeding off you for however long it took to destroy you (depends on rank).

Sloth demons have some particular traits that are worth mentioning:

Remember how concubi use their eyes for hypnotism? Well, sloth demons use their voices. They tend to have honey rich tones, and specific intonations can get you into sedated states;

Dream weaving is a skill mid-rankers and above can develop, not only to trap their meals into slumber but also to find people scattered around Earth;

They can, in fact, induce sleep paralysis and a whole manner of other horrifying sleep disorders. Perching atop meals is just a more effective means of absorbing energy.

[zarvasace]

Hi I just reread your marvelous misadventures fic and I just wanted to let you know that I absolutely adore it!

Would you be able to toss some hc’s about the boys in the fic? 💜💜💜💜 (no pressure if you’re busy or have better things to do!) : )

Awww thank you so much!!! I'm so glad you like it!! 💜💜💜 (Here's the fic in question, it's a modern "everyone's a mythological creature" AU that's pure self-indulgence with a plot)

I'll be careful about spoilers but I can totally throw out some hcs!

Wind's a seer, and he'd be nosy even if he couldn't See things. He can't See emotions like some seers, but he can See other manifestations of emotions (see: Hyrule's wings, or Twilight's wolf), and he's gotten really used to using those cues to help him navigate social situations. If he couldn't use his talent for some reason, he'd get really awkward.

Downfall, the magically cut-off continent that Hyrule and Legend are from, has government, but it devolved a while ago into.... we'll call them bureaucratic warlordships. It'll take some effort to get that organized again. Anyway, those warlords don't give official recognition for being a Hero, not like the mainland does, but they used to. Legend knows the stories better, but Hyrule knows the more romanticized versions, and he used to dream of becoming a Hero. He still does. Legend sort of does, too, but he'd never admit it.

Sky is a dragon, as were many Skyloftians, but there aren't too many left. They're not immortal, just slow agers. The government's in on it, or at least a few high rankers are. Wind was right when he hypothesized that there's only ever been one Hero of the Sky, rather than a long line of them. Loftwings are endangered, since they live longest when bonded with one of the flightless dragons. Sky and his Zelda have been alive for at least two hundred years and still aren't married, incredibly.

Warriors is a half-demon who literally grew up in hell, and though his Zelda/Sheik and a few others have mostly pounded decency through his head, he still has a few messed-up assumptions about the world internalized. Due to his abnormal education, though, he's the only one who actually knows what Wild is (including Wild himself.)

Four's pretty sure he's just human. The colors in this story work more like LU canon than I usually write them, they're more just extensions of himself than fully realized individuals.

Twilight and Wild live on a patch of good land that one of Twilight's older relatives willed to him. They're currently living in an old cabin there, but someday Twilight wants to build two new cabins, and settle into one with a family of his own. His half-baked plans include setting Wild up with someone who won't mind how unafraid he is of death and giving them the second cabin. He's not sure how he'll do that, though, and he is increasingly unhappy with the fact that "werewolf" is both on his ID and his background check.

Wild's just half-aware of all of that, and is more focused at the moment on getting settled into the modern world—his land was cut off from the continent for that century he wasn't around, and both he and everyone else there are getting used to cars and fast food chains.

Due to some spoilers, Time isn't able to have biological children, and he and Malon are starting to look into fostering. Time's realizing that there are a lot of teens and tweens out there with magic who are a lot like Wars was (i.e. in need of realistic expectations of cause and effect), and he wants to help.

...okay that was a lot sorry I love them too!

[woodlandtrust]

The Willow, by Diane Ranker Riesen

Oh, Willow tree, of dream-filled sleep… What makes your branches bend and weep? What secrets live within your leaves- That cause your mighty arms to grieve? So many years have passed your eyes… A million whispers, songs and cries – What knowledge looms inside you deep, What secret memories do you keep? Your roots have stretched so far and wide – As years have passed and people die. Your silent wisdom holds you strong – When darkness stirs and storms are drawn. I need to sit beneath your grace… To feel the peace within your space – The soft, sweet branches sweep and flow… And show me what I long to know.

[dorokora]

Arc’s page: The cult school was a testing ground for researchers to experiment on orphans and unidentified children by giving them sacred artifacts and making them fight.

Ose’s page: Ose can be a backup world rep for Odin under certain situations. Ose is currently looking for Loki.

Kirito’s page: Kirito was once part of a gang called the Skull White but due to Oniwaka and the Berserkers taking over the area the gang disbanded. Kirito rejecting to connect to someone is equivalent to rejecting the system of Tokyo as a whole. This makes Kirito the most powerless person in Tokyo and also unaffected by the system’s constraints.

Marchosias’ page: Marchosias is classified as a stray transient. The boy who’s with him is the son of his summoner, who died using the last of his strength to summon Marchosias. He gave him the order to “protect his son to the end”. Marchosias’ wish is to go to the place where King Solomon is to return to. Back in the day in Eden, he was given the ‘seventh throne’ by his master, Solomon.

Aizen’s page: Aizen is a romanticist who dreams of falling in love. He still thinks baby comes from storks and hand holding is a sign of deep affection. And believes kissing is far too lewd.

Kagutsuchi’s page: Kagutsuchi is confirmed to be a Ranker for the Berserkers. He lives in a karate dojo that is run by Ikutoshi’s father. It’s mentioned that he burned his mother who gave birth to him and almost killed his father (Izanagi and Izanami). His goal is to earn back his parents’ love.

Gyobu’s page: The one who gave Gyobu his mallet sacred artifact was Gorozaemon. He teaches gambling dealing classes at Suidocho Business Academy.

Nobuharu’s page: Thanks to the loop, he has many possibilities to join any guild. With the role of either ‘the one who rules the four heavens or the one who invades’. In different loops, if certain conditions are met, Nobuharu could end up being a part of the Invaders.

Gyumao’s page: Each of the six executive members of the Tycoons have their own building towers in Roppongi.

Thunderbird’s page: Thunderbird has a rival who goes by different names, one of those names is Leviathan (the same Leviathan who appeared in CH13). He’s a bartending student and lecturer at the Suidocho Business Academy. Seeing a dog brings up painful memories of the hero he cherished.

Ebisu’s page: Ebisu was a name he had later. He was born with a different name (Hiruko). He also was born with bad legs.