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fandom-go-round · 6 months

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The First Few Dates aka Middle Aged Lover's Club (MALC)

The first time they go out, it's not really a date. At least Yashiki doesn't think it's a date. Are four people allowed to go out on dates?

Mashita Satoru x Yashiki Kazuo x Daimon Shuuji x Hiroo Madoka (Poly Relationship, OT4)

This won't leave my head. You're welcome world for the ship no one asked for. Is this going to be a thing? No idea.

Warnings: Implied Canon Typical Violence, Low Self Esteem (Yashiki), Polyamory, Poly Negotiations, Pre-Relationship

The first time they go out, it’s not really a date. At least Yashiki doesn’t take it as a date. Hiroo had insisted the adults get together to let loose and Yashiki didn’t have the heart to say no. Mashita had loudly and insistently said he wasn’t going, a blatant lie since he was sitting right next to Yashiki. Hiroo and Daimon sat across from them, a bottle of sake in the middle of the table.

It doesn’t take long for Hiroo and Mashita to start bickering, Hiroo getting louder the more alcohol she drinks. Daimon sends Yashiki an amused look, shaking his head and ordering appetizers for the table. The two of them catch up while the younger two exchange barbs, easily starting an impromptu drinking contest. Daimon’s leg bumps into Yashiki’s under the table and he winks, Yashiki’s cheeks going pink. The other two don’t notice, getting close as they lean across the table.

The night ends with Hiroo leaning heavily on Daimon and Mashita smirking at her half-asleep state. Daimon gives Yashiki’s arm a squeeze before taking Hiroo home, the dual lab coats blending into the night. Yashiki drives Mashita back to the mansion, the ex-detective’s good mood not faltering. Mashita spends the night and Yashiki basks in the lightness in his chest; the normal crushing weight has left for the night.

The four of them don’t have time to get together for a couple of months, seeing each other sporadically. Yashiki takes a few cases with Mashita, not as partners but just to help. The knowing glint in Mashita’s eyes betrays what they both know, it’s only a matter of time. He always feels safe with Mashita, even when they’re running for their lives. The younger man is a steady presence at his side.

He goes to lunch with Daimon a couple of times, the two of them meeting at a diner close to the hospital. Yashiki always feels comfortable with the doctor; he doesn’t know what exactly it is but he enjoys relaxing with his friend. They talk about music and the other Mark Bearers, content to exist just the two of them.

Hiroo is harder to get a hold of but Yashiki does his best to make time for her. Usually that means she drags him over town to run errands, carrying her bags and then going for drinks after. She takes longer to relax than the others but Yashiki is proud the first time she actually laughs in front of him. She’s beautiful when she grins.

The next time they’re all able to get together Daimon picks the place, a trendy karaoke bar. Mashita looks like he’s going to cuss everyone out but Hiroo drags him to their room before he can make a scene. Yashiki doesn’t know half of the songs they pick but it’s fun to see everyone let loose. Daimon has a nice voice (when he’s able to sing without coughing) but Mashita is tone deaf. Hiroo vows to never let him live it down but Mashita doesn’t complain too much. It might be because she’s leaning so heavily on him as she laughs.

Something is changing between them. Yashiki can’t pinpoint when or how but things are changing. Mashita has been thawing, not only to himself but the others as well. Hiroo’s teasing is less mocking and has a sweeter edge. Daimon jokes more, something sly on his face instead of serious. Yashiki thinks that he’s changing too; more willing to relax and connect with the people around him.

Moe has been teasing him, saying that Mashita and Hiroo visit him at the mansion a lot more often. Once Moe knows, everyone else knows. Yashiki doesn’t think it’s a big deal, everyone comes to visit him, but there’s something that he’s missing. The one time he asks Mashita, the ex-detective looks at him, sighs and then rolls his eyes.

“Figure it out yourself, idiot.” The words lack their normal heat, Mashita sounding fond. Yashiki had meant to bring it up to Daimon before their next get together but it slips his mind with another spirit case.

Eventually Mashita drags them all to a local hole in the wall, something that Yashiki had walked past without noticing. It’s a mix between a jazz club and a bar, the lights dim and booths secluded. Mashita had swung by the mansion before hand and helped Yashiki pick out an outfit, something completely out of the norm. The detective hadn’t let anything slip, just smirking as he got Yashiki ready. As questions were ignored or brushed off, the older man giving up after a while. Yashiki feels silly as they walk in but once he sees Hiroo and Daimon he feels better; they’ve dressed up as well.

They’re booth is tucked into a corner, away from the noise and other customers. Yashiki enjoys how the low lighting caresses everyone’s face and resists the urge to touch. It’s not something he thinks about often, the way his eyes and hands want to wander. Most of the time he’s able to push the thoughts back but tonight it’s harder. Partly sake, partly because Mashita’s hand has been on his knee the entire night. There’s something unsaid pulsing among them and Yashiki isn’t as scared as he should be.

The tension bubbles over once they leave, exiting into an ally in the back. Yashiki is laughing at a joke Daimon told, bumping shoulders with Mashita. Hiroo turns around at his laugh, letting go of Daimon’s hand to cup his face and kiss him. She tastes like sake and mint, Yashiki freezing before kissing her back. His eyes slide closed, only opening after Hiroo pulls back. The look on her face is self-satisfied, the scientist licking her lips as Yashiki’s cheeks go red.

Mashita let’s out a scoff behind him, Daimon offering a kind smile at Yashiki’s mounting horror. The doctor doesn’t give him time to react, leaning down to kiss him as well. This kiss is softer, tasting like citrus and sandalwood. Yashiki gasps when Daimon’s tongue brushes his lips, the older man taking advantage of his open mouth. Yashiki is sure that he’s going to stumble until Mashita’s arms wrap around his waist. Daimon pulls away; Yashiki gets a brief view of Hiroo dragging him into a kiss before Mashita is on him.

This is the kiss that makes Yashiki ground, all teeth and tongue and smoke. Yashiki thinks he’s dreaming, that has to be the reason all of this is happening. There’s no way everything would fall into place this perfectly; life doesn’t usually give him what he wants.

“Stop thinking.” Mashita’s voice is a growl, pulling away just enough to scold Yashiki. He doesn’t respond, brain still trying to reboot. Hiroo lets out a uncharacteristic giggle, smirk wide on her face.

“He should be thinking about the right stuff now at least.” Her tone is teasing and Daimon shakes his head, a fond look on his face.

“Should we take this inside?” Daimon’s words help to sober them up a bit, the four making sure no one else has seen them. The ally is empty and Mashita takes charge, taking Yashiki by the wrist and pulling him towards the van. Yashiki let’s them lead him away, slender fingers brushing over his hips.

“Does this mean we’re dating?” Yashiki can’t help but blurt out, the other three stopping just at the mouth of the ally. There are a few heartbeats of silence and he’s sure he’s ruined everything. Hiroo breaks the silence with a lout groan, running a hand down her face. Daimon starts to laugh, loud and carefree in a way Yashiki only hears occasionally.

“Of course we’re dating. We’ve been dating for months.” Hiroo’s voice is her normal brisk tone, Mashita giving a chuckle.

“Now you feel my pain.” Mashita teases, Hiroo smacking him on the arm.

“This is all your fault! You told us you’d talk to him!” Yashiki watches as the two begin to bicker; Hiroo pinches Mashita’s wrist and the ex-detective smirks.

“I did talk to him. It’s not fault he’s dense and self-sacrificing.” Yashiki snorts, feeling a wave of confusion and affection.

“We didn’t really talk…” He trails off and Daimon raises an eyebrow, interpreting something different in his silence. Yashiki goes red again and Hiroo huffs, crossing her arms.

“You liar Mashita! You were supposed to keep your hands to yourself!”

“Shut it you noisy brat; you’re one to talk about keeping your hands to yourself.” Mashita looks pointed at her fingers on his arm and Hiroo pulls back like she’s been burned. Her face goes red and Mashita gives another smirk, crowding her towards the wall. Yashiki clears his throat, all of them turning to look at him.

“I’d like to talk about it, if you’re all still willing.” Some of the sexual tension bleeds away, soft looks appearing.

“We’d like that.” Daimon gives Yashiki’s shoulder a squeeze, the doctor moving onto the street. They all share a secret smile, Hiroo moving to walk next to Daimon. Mashita falls into place by Yashiki and the older man smiles, linking their pinkies for a moment before letting go.

He doesn’t know when they started dating but he’s not going to complain. Yashiki might not think he deserves it but he’s going to cling to this happiness with everything he has. That’s what it means to live, after all.

#death mark #death mark 2 #death mark imagine #yashiki x mashita #mashita x yashiki x daimon x hiroo #daimon x yashiki #daimon x hiroo #yashiki kazuo #mashita satoru #daimon shuuji #hiroo madoka #yashita #ot4 #middle aged lover's club #malc

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sabusthings · 5 months

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9 and 13

I already answered 13 but get ready for 9!!!

9. Write a recommendation of someone else's fic you enjoyed!

(With a few exceptions, I don’t know some of the authors’ tumblr names. If you see ur fic here, Im kissing ur face thank you for ur service. It also goes without saying, but please keep in mind the tags on these fics if you choose to click; if they ain’t your cup of tea, click the back button. But f you do like them, please leave them a comment!!!!)

A Mindless Melody Maddening Me

Most fics have Salieri having an angst session over Mozart (which is always excellent!!!) but few have it the other way around. I love this fic because Mozart is so fucking PETTY over others spending time with Salieri in a normal fashion that he can no longer do. He acts very nonchalant about it but you can see that it’s eating him up inside ITS GREAT.

Hibiscus

Okay so I did a Salieri/Dantes doodle and it resulted in that fic so mild bias. I love it when Dantes gets teased. Ilu dez ur gr8

Pulled from the shadows

More bias, I commissioned this one, but Adet is PEAK writer. Anything they have is just 10/10 and I recc everything they have made!!!!!

Direct Someday

Yashiki/Mashita soft fic. It has old man being soft about the tsundere man. The author has another fic of them getting Spicy which i also recommend.

The indomitable human soul

Carm real MVP. I love this fic so much and it’s still ongoing. I love how they get into the nitty gritty of Dr tenma (2003 edition) and his thought process from how to bring his old best friend back to how he thinks of himself and everything in between. A+++++

Goodbye to a World

Do you like seeing Astro boy being emotionally in pain? Bc this story is about him being in emotional pain All The Time. It’s an excellent read and I love the conflicts Astro gets put in and how he gets through them. I especially love the chapters where Astro deals with the aftermath of a PTSD episode (boy that feels weird to write!) and its a chef kisssss

In the House of our Lady

DEEP INHALE. Please read about Salieri’s catholic guilt. And after that, please read all the other things that Ginger writes. Ginger is amazing I love them their writing is so good SO GOOD

#sabu blabs

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darkdevasofdestruction · 1 month

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Chapter 5 - Sweet Melody

Five days passed since Hanayome was appeased, and no sign of a new ghost. Although she had a few nightmares, her sleep was plenty and she was able to rest properly. In the bright surgery room, the sweet melody of a rock ballad was resounding, and a beautiful hum played along. Her hands deep inside a dog's body, Kisara was singing the lyrics to a 'Don't cry' by Guns'n'Roses. Blood was everywhere, but it didn't bother her. By the end of the operation, the dog will be all better.

Suddenly, the door slides open, and someone enters. With a surprised look, Kisara looks up at him. It was Satoru. "Your friendly policeman is here." he chuckled playfully, watching the adorable lavender deux piece medical outfit patterned with small flowers of all kinds and colours, and the matching bonnet - Then, the cutesy stickers all around the white walls... And then, at the blood and gore of the surgery. "Are you the new Mengele?" "Only on humans. Animals are too good to be tortured and experimented on." she grinned behind the mask. "I'm almost done. I have to close it up and get the nurses to put her in a cage to rest, with IV set up." she explained, taking the minuscule hook-like needle with the thin thread attached, and making sutures so delicate that made the detective approach and observe. With slender and dexterous fingers like hers, no wonder her stitching looked as beautiful as her. "You're the only young person around this crowd of geriatrics, yet you seem to keep up with them. Nicely done." he praised her, though it seemed double edged. "If you're accusing me of nepotism - Go ahead, it's half true." she chuckled. "My grandpa was the Surgeon General during the war, it's no surprise he'd help me land a spot here, it's the best Veterinarian hospital in the area. I've been practicing since before I started University, so I know my stuff pretty well. Obviously, I work and study hard enough to pull my weight, so I'm not relying on connections alone - But I'm not complaining either." she said, throwing the single use protection clothing into the bin and calling the nurse to care for the puppy. "I like the honesty." he said, a shit-eating grin on his face. "Are you sure you're the same woman from a few days ago?" "What, is the blouse too childish for you?" she laughed, nodding for him to follow her. "A bit of colour in this bleak place is very much welcomed." she explained, getting to the small eating are, where she got a bento and two pairs of chopsticks. "Got it this morning from the convenience store across the street. It should be fine." "What a treat, thanks." he says, not expecting to ear any time soon. "To what do I owe the pleasure?" she asks all of a sudden. "Can't I come see you?" he teased her, earning a playful roll of her eyes. "Just any time." she retorted. "So, what was it? You wouldn't just come to lose time around." "Fine, you caught me. Here." he dug his hand in the pocket of his coat, and slammed something on the table, and slid it her way. "Oh, you're taking me to the movies this weekend, fascinating!" the girl grinned. "I heard this one is pretty good - Seven - A police based movie where they investigate a string of ritualistic killings, yes? Right up your alley, Mr. Officer." Mashita smirked. "Couldn't resist the irony." "Well, if the next ghost won't intervene, then I'm game." she handed him the tickets back. "It's been five days and Yashiki only called me to say he's found no lead. It's a bit unnerving." "You know Yashiki well enough by now. He'll find something. For a guy like him, he's pretty reliable." Mashita vouched for his friend. "So? What colour should I wear? We've got to match." the man's face turned to a scowl, making her laugh. "Okay, okay, I'm just kidding, relax. I don't need to match, I look good either way." "Alright, I'm leaving, there's only so much patience I have. Thanks for the food. See ya." she offered a casual wiggle of her fingers farewell, before turning to her lunch. A movie, huh? Should be fun.

Finally, evening came by, and Yashiki calls - This time, with actual information instead of a disappointing answer. Two Mark bearers came by the Mansion just a little earlier, an Idol and an elderly woman who's into the supernatural... A medium or something. Ai Kashiwagi and Madame Yasuoka. Both of them got the Mark while filming in H city - The K Miyamachi North Road. The Manhole street. Getting ready, Kisara made her way to the exact spot, in the quiet residential area, where she met up with Ai and Yashiki. It's far removed from the major crossroads, so at this time of the night, it looks pretty deserted. After the proper introductions took place, they started to investigate the area.

Madame Yasuoka is said to be a famous Fortune Teller, and she allegedly felt an ominous presence throughout the whole filming period. First they picked out on one of the manholes having an older design - It seemed to be older than the others, and it's covered in rust. Ai suggests trying to get it open, so the two adults used all their power to get move the lid. A putrid smell wafts out, making them gag. A black void stretched deep underground, and a rusted metal ladder was the only way down. "Why don't we try looking down?" the girls gasped. "What, are you serious?! But I'm in my stage outfit!" Ai gasped. "It's gross as all hell." Kisara scowled at him. "Do you want to wait up here?" Kisara knelt down and looked into the abyss. There was something weird calling her down there. With a groan, she agreed to join. "D-Don't you dare look up while you're climbing down!" the idol whined at the man.

This didn't connect to the sewers, and it went far too deep down to be normal. It felt like a secret place that no one was supposed to know about. When they finally reached the ground, the two turned on the flashlights - A concrete passageway stretched before them. It hasn't been ventilated in a long time, based on the pungent stench. "Where are we anyway?" Ai asked - How were they supposed to know? Still, Kisara felt uneasy... A feeling of dread creeping, as though she wasn't supposed to be there. It was forbidden.

Moving North, they reached a dead end, luminated dimly by a red light. On the ground, there was an iron box. Yashiki slips his hands underneath the lid and pulls with all his might. It pops open with an unexpectedly loud noise. He takes a hammer, a hatchet and a notebook from inside. They try to read the notebook, but the writing was too fine to be read down there. A stink seems to suddenly invade their senses, like a mixture of tallow, spices and blood. It was disgusting. It was coming from the notebook. "Please put that away, I feel like I might puke." as Ai complained, Yashiki bagged the notebook.

Going South, Ai suddenly shrieks pitifully and stops in her tracks. "Wh-What is that?!" she shakily points and the man lights the spot. Something dark and long was clinging to the walls. "Looks like hair to me." Kisara said, stepping in front of it. Yashiki seemed to think the same. Going further south, they reached another dead end, and an old-fashioned though well-built iron door. The paint was chipping in places, so it must be pretty old. "Whoa, that door looks ancient! I had no idea there was a place like this underground. Oh - Could this be some kind of lab?" as the idol chirped, fascinated, Kisara felt her body unconsciously move towards it. Her hand on the handle, she tries to open it. Suddenly, she found herself on the ground, a shriek erupting from her throat. A small, homeless old man frightened her with a shout, yelling strangely - He came in from the doors. "Hey, where you folks from? What're you doin' on my turf?" he asked, a dubious, crooked grin on his face. While the other two tried to appear inconspicuous, Kisara remained silent, staring at the doors. She needed to find what was on the other side, at some point. "This underground shelter isn't a place for irresponsible layabouts like you! Understand? So leave my turf alone and get outta here!" he warned, disappearing behind the iron doors, no doubt locking them up. "Man, that surprised me..." Ai let out a sigh of relief. "I wasn't expecting a person to come out." Still, it was weird that he warned them not to bother with the place. If he locked it up, he shouldn't worry about them - Right? Yashiki went to help Kisara stand up and gathered them out of the place. They stank enough as it was, and there wasn't much to investigate around anymore.

All Kisara could think about, all the way to the mansion, was the noose tightening around her neck whilst looking at the iron doors and the underground shelter itself. A dark secret... But why does it feel so personal? It was no doubt to her that it was made during the war era, or something like that - Why should she be concerning herself with old war relics? She wasn't even born then, so she's not linked to anything - Right? She barely cared for the fresh air soothing her burning senses, or about Madame Yasuoka finding them at the Manhole street. She looked like the perfect mix between good looking mystical and kitsch. They spoke about about the Mark and the voice inside Yashiki's head, but it was barely anything coherent or conclusive.

The red haired woman drove everyone back to the mansion. Thankfully, only the sound of soft jazz was heard for the duration of the drive, though when they did arrive, Yasuoka told them a little bit of her connection with the Kujo family. What attracted her attention, however, was Ai mentioning a black rabbit on the premises, holding something in its mouth, heading for the building. They run inside the mansion - Everything was the same, except that Mary was missing.

In a corner, Mary's broken body laid on the ground, tragically shattered. Next to it was the rabbit, with its head twisted unnaturally and sitting in a pool of its own blood. Yashiki tried talking to the doll, but it didn't answer. Kisara frowned, picking up the key the rabbit had been holding, and staring blankly at the grotesque beauty that the two bodies painted. Whatever spirit was possessing the bunny, it knew Mary was malevolent and tried to protect them, at the cost of its own life. "Yashiki, this belongs to you. Have fun." she threw the Master key to the man. "And don't despair. Mary wasn't as good as you think she was." she threw the off comment, hopping on the princess couch Mary previously sat on, and relaxing. "When you're ready to go investigate, call me."

Once Yashiki and the other two finished investigating the single room that he couldn't unlock before, he explained he found a desk filled with different kinds of carving instruments and paints, to which Yasuoka mentioned the Kujo ancestors carving up Buddha statues. Dubious statement, and even weirder practice. They also found a photo frame with pictures of marionettes, wax figurines, Japanese dolls, and sure enough, Mary was also present in there - And she had the Mark on her right arm, though it was black, unlike the ones the curse bearers have. Still, the Mary she remembers didn't have such a Mark - Could she have been able to somehow hide it?

All four together gathered around the notebook and its vulgar stench. This notebook that seemed to have been drowned in a pool of strong, cheap perfume. Stains and discoloration made most of the pages unreadable, save for the last page, which was dated half a month prior. 'As I await the fated day, I recall my days as a teacher. The children called me Miss Zoo. Zoo... The keeper of animals... Probably because I kept so many laboratory animals in the science lab. I got to be surrounded by my beloved animals... My cute little snakes... It was so much more fulfilling than my current, boring research, but because of that foolish principal and the fire, the school was shut down. My paradise was stolen from me. I need to take back my paradise. The great Ashura has bestowed upon me the wisdom I need to do that. Tomorrow - I will die. By the great Ashura's abundant mercy, I will be reborn as Miss Zoo, so I may rebuild my paradise again. It is all as the great Ashura has said. O, great Ashura. Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura Ashura.' the rest of the page is written with the word 'Ashura'. Did she lose her mind writing this?

"Oh, great, now I don't feel comfortable playing the Ashura anymore. What a psychopath." Kisara groaned. The names were covered in kiss marks, and combining that with the stinking perfume, only made the lust overwhelming. She was enamoured with the Ashura. "It is thoroughly disgusting." Yasuoka agreed. "I'd love to burn it to ash immediately." "At least I won't feel bad getting rid of this ghost." the woman noted. "So, this Miss Zoo, could she be...? The woman from the rumours?" interesting point. "If she worked in a lab, it would explain the white robe." Yashiki nodded. "I always imagined a bath robe or some kind of haori. I suppose a lab coat makes much more sense with this context." Kisara muttered. "But I wonder which school she was talking about." Ai thought. "H Elementary is the only abandoned school in the area that hasn't been torn down yet." Yashiki said. Satoru told Kisara off-handedly that this was where he and Yashiki met, during the Hanahiko case. Interesting. "To think a woman would want to become a spirit of her own accord. Is that really possible?" "She seemed fairly confident she would be reborn." Yasuoke stated. "And the notebook being in the shelter might serve as supportive evidence. Perhaps she meant it as a farewell to her life as a human. How sentimental." "So... Miss Zoo is the one who gave us the Marks?" Ai asked all of a sudden. "That's where we found the diary, so the spirit must know the place. It would make sense that it comes and goes there, then. For whatever reason." Yashiki admitted indirectly. "Let's go and get this over with. All this religious fanaticism is giving me the creeps. She's desecrated even the malevolence of the Ashura, what more is she going to pervert?" with that, Ai and Yashiki followed her to the car, and together, they went to the H Elementary.

For the duration of the drive, Ai hummed and wove her hands on the back seat. She seemed completely oblivious to what they were going to do and see. The two adults shared a worried look. Maybe she should have remained at the mansion. If they do return before they encounter Miss Zoo, they'll leave her with Madame Yasuoka. Ai kept talking their ear off - Well, Yashiki was mostly the one to superficially answer here and there, Kisara pretended to focus on the road ahead. Once they finally arrived, Yashiki told them the brief explaining of what he encountered during the Hanahiko case, and that the first floor is pretty much fully investigated, so there's no need to waste their time there. From the entrance they made all the way West and climb up the stairs to the 2nd floor. They found snakes there, all of them poisonous. Ai began freaking out - Thankfully, Yashiki slapped his hand over her mouth quickly. The snakes react to Yashiki's bag. "The notebook!" Kisara whisper-yelled at him. The snakes disappeared into the darkness.

They entered the first room on the right - It looked like a science lab, filled with an awful smell. The putrid stench permeated the whole classroom like a rotting crate of onions. The fire damage was quite visible - Perhaps the fire had started here. From a low sliding cupboard, Yashiki recovered some... Office trash? Weird man. Through it, he found some kind of extract fragment of a text. But Kisara was staring intently at the large glass bottles filled to the brim with formalin.

They were preserving various body parts. Human body parts. What was it that Mashita said about her being Mengele? He jinxed the case. She didn't hear Ai gasping, frightened. Hands, ears, eyeballs - They were all here. They looked weirdly fresh too. She found a tag that wrote 'GREAT ASHURA' and had an arrow reaching below - The classroom right below, perhaps? Was that where her body was? Possibly. Among the shelves, she picked up three bottles of chemicals - One clear, with the formula for Ethanol written - Highly flammable, a brown opaque one, with the label burnt, though it smelled like Chlorine, and another, wrapped in foil, that gave off a faint floral aroma - ID5 it had written on it. That should be indole.

Yashiki picked up the bundle of clothes and the lab coat from the corner. The anatomical model had a weird tear on the skinned part of its mouth. Yashiki sticks his hand inside, only for a swarm of snakes to slither out, startling them. Thankfully, they nestled back inside. There was nothing more to be searched in the storage room, to they returned to the lab. The sound of an old broadcast startled them. "dOooo YyoUU hAaaVvEE anNyy brRRaiIinsSS?" the voice was like a feral growl, barely comprehensible. "dOOoo tHhheE tttTeEEEessStT immediately...! tTAAbbBlllEe! OooOn tHHhe TTaabbBlLee!" it was getting more difficult to keep up with the exaggerated vibrato of the dark growl over the intercom.

Question 1: Compound A is widely used as fuel and disinfectant. It's chemical formula is CH3CH(x)OH. What is the (x)? Answer: 2

That was an easy question. Not only was it Ethanol with one of the easiest formulas out there, but one of the jars had it written on it anyway.

Question 2: Compound N is an exemplary acid and contains a salt that reacts to various metals. Which statement about the compound is true? Answer: It must be kept in a dark container.

HCl or Hydrochloric Acid is sensitive to the light which makes it react, unless it's properly kept. Chemistry 101.

Question 3: Which compound stinks when in great concentration, but in low concentration smells slightly like flowers? Answer: Indole

It literally either smells of feces or flowers, no in-between. How funny.

The sound of the intercom blaring again, and everyone still being alive made them sight with relief - They were safe and passed the test. "Is it over yet?" Ai whined pitifully. She wasn't the book-smart type. "Well... No. But it's fine, I'll take the tests." Kisara scratched the back of her neck uncomfortably. "The next test is in the classroom next door. I hope you're mentally prepared, because I am not." "That thing really reeks." Yashiki pointed out. "Ah, you're right. I was too focused to realise." she muttered. "Well, I'm holding these as memories. Getting forced in an exam session by a ghost... That's one thing to tell your friends." he was right though, it stank far worse than the notebook. Ai points towards something, shivering - It was the man who went to investigate it... Hand and feet sticking out of a covered crate... A corpse. He said it was the guard who stood outside of the school when he was investigating the Hanahiko case, only, said ghost had him killed back then. He collapses to his knees. Kisara hooked her arms under his pits and dragged him up. "Get a grip, friend. This is not the time to falter over some corpse!" she struggled with his heavy weight.

The first thing they saw in the next classroom was the scrawling of large symbols on the whole black board - In red. Was it blood? She could make up symbols for Love and... Stain? Ai... Zen... And something else that was too obscured to be read. Was this a Japanese test? Great. Can they return to more tangible things, like science and maths? She crouched by the ground - More flecks of red... It smelled like iron. Probably best not to say out loud that it's blood, Ai was already freaked out enough as she was. "When we're done, I want another graduation party." she chuckled softly, rushing to the exam paper to get this over with.

Question 1: (Believing in) {the Buddha} (is important) {the Buddha} (is most, extremely) {vital} {You must} (believe in) {the incredibly strong} (great) {Ai...} {The incredibly strong} (great) {Ai...} (is like) {an angel} (You must) (erase the stench of) (corrupted) (humanity) {and become ONE with nature} This is called {( ***zen Unity )}

Answer: Ai

Ai... Zen... Aizen is the Buddhist Deva of Love. Kisara was getting incredibly sick of all this Buddhist propaganda - It made her feel as though whoever was pushing this Buddhist Divine Wrath onto them was trying to make them divert their attention from the real reason behind the Death Marks. Not to mention, these questions were incredibly weird. She's never felt as uneasy as reading the fanatic, malicious intent behind these wrods.

Question 2: (Humanity) (is) {the embodiment of pain} They {KILL} (other) (animals) (My) {fellow} (snakes) (also) {spend every day} in {absolute misery} (My dear snakes) {hate} (this world) (like) {they hate} {the sun} and {heat} This disaster is called the {( cri*** age of decline )}

Answer: -mson. Crimson age of decline.

These metaphors were getting creepier the more it went on.

Question 3: (I carry) (the great) {Ai...}'s {TALISMAN} (every day) (and seek rebirth) {The TALISMAN} (is important!) (IT is) (a greater) {treasure} (than the braIN or heART) {or life itself} (This is SHOWN not in WORDS) (but DEEDS) {If I WALK} with the {TALISMAN} I will become {( ******** )}

Answer: Ashura

Psychopath.

"So, this paper says the next exam paper is in two classrooms from here, but the one next to us is off-limits. I wonder why." Kisara read the writing at the bottom. "Maybe she's got a secret in there?" Ai theorised. "But now I want to see it even more." "She probably didn't think it through before--" but Yashiki was cut off by the sound of something hitting the wall. It came from exactly next door. "Let's break the rules!" Kisara laughed, stuffing the second exam paper in her bag.

The next classroom door was locked tight with wire, but using the acid from the opaque bottle, they melted it and got it. But what they saw inside... No amount of grotesque, gore or... Anything they've seen could have compared to the completely twisted display before them. The horrible stench of blood, rot and decay was making them faint. "Ai. Please stay out of here. I don't want you to see this. You can't unsee what's here." Kisara pushed the idol out of the room. "This... Is something that no one would want to see." Yashimi muttered, breathlessly. He flashed his light inside the room. "What... The hell... Is this room...?!" he cried out, seeing the viscera thrown all over the ground like a rug. Blood was almost pooling throughout the floor, and a numerous amount of animal head trophies were either placed on the desks, or mounted on the bloody walls. "As a Veterinarian, I feel like this... Is my worst nightmare." Kisara was unable to look away from the horrors facing her. Even a slaughterhouse had less discarded chunks of meat and pints of blood. If this was some kind of sacrificial rite, it must have worked.

Thankfully, a sound coming from the window ledge snapped them out of their trance. With a lot of mustered up courage, they made their way past the desks and dismembered animals, squishing a few wet organs on their way, and another shock greeted them. A living woman, naked, was lying in a pool of blood, engulfed by countless snakes. She was heavily wounded. She almost looked like an animal waiting for its vivisection... Well, if Miss Zoo did this, no doubt she'd have wanted to do just that. With a shared look, they grab her by the wrists and ankles and get her out of the snake nest, hopeful not to get bites themselves. "Are you with us?" Kisara asked, snapping her fingers in front of her eyes - She had a blank, vague stare. She put the flashlight in her eyes - She had a pupilar reflex at least. "We can't let her here. Let's get her back to the mansion - She should be able to walk if we help her." Yashiki took off his coat, wrapping the woman as in a blanket. The unfortunate timing of the intercom and Miss Zoo snarling at them hysterically that the room is off-limits froze the blood in their veins. "Damn it, she's noticed!" Yashiki cursed. "Let's get the hell out of here." Kisara said, helping him drag the woman out. The eerie sound of monkeys and elephants wailing haunting you all the way outside the school. They thankfully managed to get back to the car, thanks to Yashiki's knowledge of the layout, and they drove away in a flash. The woman also had the Mark on her body. All of a sudden, the dazed yet snarky voice of the foreign woman surprises them. "I have a name, you know?" "As if we were supposed to read in the stars." Kisara snarked back. "You were awake?" Yashiki tried not to stare back in shock. "I'm Hiroo Madoka. I don't care what happens - I just need to take a shower immediately." Kisara nodded in agreement. She could understand the sentiment, though the woman sounded already pretty disagreeable.

Guided by the medic, the four of them were able to give Hiroo proper medical care for her wounds - And thankfully, the scary snakes seemed to not have been poisonous, otherwise she'd have been long dead. Though still a bit pale, she got some colour in her cheeks. Ai handed her the bundle of clothes found in the storage room, and she changed herself into them. Based on the perfect fit of the clothes, and the name tag too, these were her clothes. With her composure regained, Madoka Hiroo was even more apathetic. She recalls chasing after a woman called Manabi Zukawa, and possibly having fainted. She had no recollection of going to that school by herself. She was Miss Zoo. Hiroo asked them who they were, but could hardly believe a word they were saying - Still, she took it all pretty well, all things considered. Hiroo and Zukawa know each other from the lab, and they chatted here and there, being some of the few women there - Only for the nefarious Zukawa to steal something precious to her. She told them about being able to trace Zukawa to H City based on her credit card purchases, and eventually, H Elementary and the nearby warehouse. She made animal purchases from pet shops - Animals of all kinds, based on the horrific room. Still, Hiroo says the Mark appeared 9 whole days prior to her coming in H city, so... Perhaps Miss Zoo isn't the ghost who cursed her. She agreed to help track the bitch down, though she refuses to tell what it was she stole exactly.

Madoka Hiroo was freaked out of her mind whenever the idea of ghosts came into discussion, and she was pathetic for not admitting how afraid she was. Yet another person that Kisara already despises. The red haired woman made everyone sit tight at the mansion - Her and Yashiki were going to solve this mess by themselves. She wasn't sure she could handle any more of their unique personalities.

Finally returned to the Elementary, they went to take the third test - What else were they supposed to do? They had to find out what lay at the end of the exam session. This one was a math test. Cool.

Question 1: An ostrich can run from the 1st floor of the school to the 2nd floor in 3 seconds. If the school had 5 floors, how long would it take for it to get from the 1st to the 5th? Answer: 12 seconds.

Easy. Even Ai could have solved this.

Question 2: Ostriches are extremely (fast). They can run {60km} (per hour). How many seconds would it take them to reach a human (bait) {30 meters} away? Answer: Aprox. 2 seconds

This wasn't as easy as the previous one. Conversions are annoying.

Question 3: An ostrich's kick is very (strong). Without an airbag, a human (bait) would die. Caution: When observing an ostrich (stong) bring an airbag! Their specialty is kicking after taking a long running start. If an ostrich's (speed) is halved, how (strong) would their kick be? Answer: 1/4

She was so done with ostriches and Zukawa's fetish with them!

The ghost's snarly voice roared through the intercom, telling them a special test is awaiting them in the animal classroom. Though Kisara shuddered, Yashiki dragged her back at the slaughter room - All the better, as they didn't get the chance to investigate. "I'm not touching anything. I don't want to know what kind of psychopathic memories I would receive if I touch anything in this god forsaken room." the girl said. "I-I'll take the test while you investigate!" "Alright, alright..." the man sighed deeply, looking around and rummaging through the disgusting room. On the desk, he found a text fragment... And stuck inside the esophagus of an animal... A transistor megaphone was hidden there. "What in the fresh hell..." the poor man cursed. Kisara handed him a handkerchief. "I'm getting sick in this room." and she went to the exam paper, trying not to tear up from the look of the massacred animals. "This... This is German. Amazing." the girl stared with fascination. She took German and English as her foreign languages, and she was always happy about that. The questions looked to be... International history? World War two? She should ace it.

Question 1: In the Pacific War, the Japanese mainland underwent air raids and a shelter was built in H City. Choose the correct period of when the war took place. Answer: Showa. She needn't even see the other options, she knew everything about the war, inside out. Everything her grandparents told her, she knows to perfection.

Question 2: In the war with America, the Imperial Japanese Army conducted a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, which started the war against the United States. Which phrases out of the ones below were used in the telegram which described the attack? Answer: Niitaka-yama nobore.

Climb the mountain Niitaka... Yes... That was it. That was how they coded the day of the attack. Tora tora tora was when they were to attack, on sight...

Question 3: In 1945 when the war ended, which country was allied with Japan? Answer: Germany Though Italy was part of the Axis, it ended up switching sides and declaring war on Germany, and the United Kingdom had always been a great power of the Allies. This was the most agreeable and fun test - She could take it ten times over... But not in this place.

"How'd it go?" Yashiki said, hearing that the last test is in the empty classroom. "Let's just say there's no World War 2 trivia that I don't know." she grinned. "How are you holding up?" "Barely." Yashiki sighed. "Let's get this over with." he put his arm over her shoulder, as a way of supporting each other. It was no small feat, finding the mental and physical strength to drag your feet towards another rabid ghost. "Well, you know the drill. I do the test, you investigate." Kisara sighed, going to the exam paper. Hopefully, this really was the last one. "Wait, hold up! I found something." Yashiki called out. "It's a... A Music Sheet, titled 'Star'. And there's another fragment. Let's put them together and see what they mean." he sprawled everything over a desk. "By the specific frequency of sound waves." the end of fragment I and the start of fragment G connected together into a sentence. "Uh... Figure it out!" she jogged back to the test paper.

Let's (great) {Ashura} the following questions. {Animals} can be (controlled with) {frequenCIES}. The experiment (EXPERIMENT) was a {success}.

Question 1: What SOUND are {snakes} scared of? Please (great) {Ashura} from the following. Answer: Nothing.

Considering how she idolises snakes, they are probably unafraid of anything, in her eyes.

Question 2: What SOUND are {PIGS} scared of? Please (great) {Ashura} from the following. Answer: Giant fish song

Hopefully, this is right. It's either this or the Night sky song. At this point, she doubts even someone with more musical culture would understand the nonsensical undertones of this weirdo.

Question 3: Which one is not {sealed}. Please (great) {Ashura} from the following. Answer: Harmonica

It's the only instrument they haven't found around so far.

"Pass? Really?" Yashiki let out an exhale. "Great job. Really. I don't think I could have done this." the man praised. "Well... What now?" Kisara asked, a bit dazed. "I think we can use all the stinking exam papers to lure the snakes out of the anatomical model and see what's hiding inside." he explained. "That's a great idea. Let's do it." the two nodded in determination and rushed back. Yashiki did as he said, and as he put his hand inside the model's mouth, he found a Science Match and a key to the music room. Kisara was a bit upset that Yashiki through all of the exam papers out of the window, but at least there were no more snakes... Or lingering stench. "The time is almost up. I can feel the Mark burning." Yashiki muttered. "Do you think Zukawa was the one cursing you, then?" she asked softly. "I hope it is. I'm really exhausted from all this." he dragged his palm over his face. "I..." Kisara sighed. "I don't think it's Zukawa for me. I feel perfectly fine." she said, taking out a Tag. "There was this Tag in the storage room. Let's go check out the room below." she said.

The storage room on the first floor looked perfectly normal, though when Yashiki weirdly started tapping on the left wall, he realised the center portion of the wall sounded hollow. He took the hammer and dredged it down the wall, destroying it. "Use ethanol with a match." Kisara suggested, watching the man jump back, freaked out - More snakes. They disappeared to somewhere, once the blue flames scare them off, and now, with the wall empty, he picked up an amulet. An Aizen Ashura Talisman. "Off to the music room, then." Yashiki guided her to the last room, where they unlocked the door with the key they found. Inside, a single piano was placed in a corner, with a sheet of music - Carp Streamer. "So... Was that a waste of time?" Kisara asked confused. Unsure of what to do, the two exited the room. The intercom shrieks again.

'dOOo YyoUu hHHavVeee .... bBrrAAiiNnsSs?' how creepy. 'IiI'lLL UUussEE TTthooOosSSEEs wwwondDEeerRfuL BbBrraiIIiNssS noOowWW...' she continued. 'aAaSSs iiIInNnnrEeeDDIiiEeEnttTsss... aNNNdd diIissEEeecCtTT YyYoOUuuu...'

"What?! Did she just say she'll dissect us for ingredients?!" Yashiki gasped, sharing a crestfallen look of anguish with the girl who could barely nod her head. "She wanted to see if we were worthy enough to become ingredients." "Screw me and my smart ass." Kisara cursed herself. Suddenly, she squeals and grabs Yashiki in fear. "S-Something's rushing up from the West - And it's hella fast!" "And the Mark is burning like crazy - This is the last confrontation with this damned ghost." Yashiki gritted his teeth, pulling the woman back in the music room with him. "What are we going to throw at her?!" she asked, opening the bag. "No time for that - Hide in the locker!" Yashiki opened two lockers and they hid inside.

The door to the music room was slammed open... Or perhaps it was ripped from its hinges. Zukawa's monstrous body, more a mix of different parts of animals rather than human, heaved and panted, pacing to and fro around the lockers. Her pig face... Or was it an alligator? Was fixedly glaring at her through the small, horizontal line gaps of the locker. Kisara's body was trembling like a leaf, and she was biting so hard on her quivering bottom lip that she could feel the strong metal taste all over her tongue. Suddenly, she stepped out of sight. It was more terrifying not seeing her, Kisara realised, and she tried to tilt her head to the side, just enough to find her again in the room.

The locker door was ripped open, and Zukawa's horrifying body stood there, almost close enough to close the pathway. The red haired woman sprung from the locker, and next to the piano. She was hysterically panting and wheezing. "YASHIKI! YASHIKI!" she cried out his name. "WHAT THE FUCK AM I SUPPOSED TO DO?!" she held tightly onto the piano, holding the Aizen Ashura Talisman in her grasp. While Miss Zoo wasn't paying attention, Yashiki, too, dashed out of the locker. Zukawa was stepping closer with her terrifying ostrich legs. She could jump at them at any moment, and based on the test she took, those legs could kick them dead. Yashiki held up the office trash. Nothing happened, except for Zukawa moaning out in gargles her hedonistic love for the Great Ashura... And her wanting the talisman back. Her mouth was dripping with blood. She dashes and performs a jump kick. Thankfully, the office trash bag that Yashiki was holding as a shield was enough to cushion the blow. That was close. She gets closer, and her arm snakes hiss, threatening them. "Quick - Ethanol and the matches!" the two create a mass of flame which divert the aim of the snakes as they try to attack. She was now closer to them, and the pig face with shark mouth snapped its jaws open, drooling and revealing sharp predator teeth. Yashiki tries to hit the monster with the hatchet, but snakes coil around his arms. Quickly, Kisara searcher for the fish music sheet and hurried behind the piano. Though her hands were shaking as though she was suffering from Parkinson's disease, it was a children music sheet, so it was easy to play, even if her mind was blazing with fright. Miss Zoo stiffens, as if paralysed. She was weakened.

Finally, Kisara holds up the Talisman again, while Yashiki lights up a match and burns it. Miss Zoo shrieks seeing the talisman go up in flames - She clingst onto the woman, scrambling to get it back. Pressed together and with Yashiki desperately trying to pry her off, all of Miss Zoo's bodily fluids drench her outfit. "GROSS!" Kisara shrieks, tearing up in disgust... Though those shark teeth so close to her face do nothing to alleviate her fear.

The Ashura Aizen Talisman disintegrates to ashes in Miss Zoo's hand and scatters into the air. Her eyes pin the girl in place with their intense fury. "HOW DARE YOU?! HOW DARE YOU!!! GREAT ASHURA!!!!!!!" the snakes on Zukawa's arms raise their heads and swiftly strike at their prey. Kisara shrieks and shields her face, not seeing the snakes coiling around and biting into Zukawa's torso. "WHYYYYYYYYYYYY?!" the snakes were feasting on the places where she touched Hasashi's skin... Was it because of her human smell? "Kisara, open your eyes - Look! The snakes are devouring her!" Yashiki gasped, unable to pry his eyes away from the sight before him. Her sight was glazed from the tears, but she could see the snakes biting and ripping away at the only part of her that is steal human. She squeals with joy. "FEEEEEEEELSSSS SOOOO GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD!!!" after consuming their host, the snake arms detach and fall to the ground. Wriggling their half-torn bodies, they vanish into the darkness. "What the fuck." Kisara breaths out. "Absolutely NOTHING out of everything regarding this ghost made ANY sense." her head leaned down on the ground. She pulled at the neck of her sweater. "Still here, right?" Yashiki looked down at his wrist, then at her neck - And he nodded, a disappointed, yet resigned look on his face. He extended his hand to help her up - Only to see a folded paper on the ground where the ghost vanished. It was an old map - It had 'Army' writing on it. This was what Zukawa stole from Hiroo.

Finally, they leaned onto each other and got the hell out of there. The drive back to the mansion was perfectly silent - But it was good. They were too exhausted and paralysed with fear to be able to speak another word. It wasn't easy, speaking to the three women back at the Mansion, but they managed, somehow. They gave Hiroo back the map, with the expected ungrateful attitude, and she gave Zukawa's diary. Ai and Yasuoka will be leaving the next day, though Yashiki needed Yasuoka to search around about the Death Mark. She knew better than all about supernatural stuff. Ai also invited them to her concert, but they cheekily said they'll only come should they get VIP seats.

The most annoying of them all had to remain the night, though Kisara was fine - She wasn't sleeping there. The Mansion was too creepy to stay around, and after what happened, she truly needed the comfort of her own home. Hiroo said the map was of an underground shelter and that possibly, whatever turned Zukawa into a monster might be down there too. Kisara looked up at Yashiki once Hiroo climbed the stairs to her new dormitory. "Hey, when you find something about Hiroo and the shelter, contact me. I have strong ties to things related to World War 2, and I might be able to help. My grandpa was the Surgeon General in the imperial army - I'm sure he knows things from this city." she explained, fixing her hair. "Alright. I'll see what I can get out of her. She's not the easiest to get along with." the man sighed pitifully. "Sorry for leaving you alone with her. She's a real pain. Still - Call me if you need anything, okay? We're quite literally in this together, until the end." she gave an unease half-smile. "Thanks. Really - Thanks. Have a safe drive back home... I know you don't want to return. Rest well." Kisara nodded at him. "And take a shower - We both need it big time." she gave a soft chuckle before returning to her car and going home.

The Sun was already up and going by the time she got home. She took a very long bath and oiled herself in the sweetest fragrances - Finally, something that smelled good. She lit up a ton of strong scented candles and incense, put the day's clothes to wash with a ton of perfume and clothes balm and all that, and got some light snacks to eat. She was exhausted once she was finally in her nightgown and she allowed herself to fall onto the bed. She looked at her phone and flipped up the lid, searching for a contact. 'Friendly Policeman' it said. She found herself smiling tiredly at the screen, and she hit the green dial button, putting it on speaker.

"You're insane if you think I'll actually answer you at this hour. You're pushing your luck already." Satoru's hoarse groan made her chuckle softly. "Can you talk me to sleep?" she asked, placing the phone on the other pillow next to her. "Did you hear no word of what I said?!" he exclaimed. "It was... A bad day." she admitted, her voice delicate. "I need a touch of normalcy if I want to be able to sleep... And hopefully stay asleep for at least 8 hours straight." "...Did you go ghost-hunting?" she hummed in acknowledgement. "You didn't tell me." "Things went pretty fast pace, to be honest. After everything that happened, I have some problems wrapping my head around all the nonsensical and completely deranged things that I've lived through. It was a hundred times worse than Shimi-O." she let out a shaky breath. "Alright, alright, I get it, let's not talk about that if you want to sleep." the man sighed softly. The subtle noise of the sheets shifting was heard. "I'm awake now. What do you want to talk about? You say you want to sleep, but talking won't help with that." "I... Just wanted to hear your voice, really. I think you have a beautiful voice. It's very reassuring and calming." she heard him scoffing on the other end, though he made no haste to correct or tease her. "Doubt I'm the most interesting man out there. Free talking isn't my thing, I'm no orator." he grumbled. "Ah, okay, I know. I have some books around. It's uh... Agatha Christie. I can read it to you." "Oh, she's good. Please, do." Kisara grinned, cuddling the pillow and closing her eyes. The man began monotonously reading the lines, though the intonation didn't matter - His voice truly was enough to wipe all the horrific scenes from her head. Suddenly, she found herself unable to respond to him, when he called out her name. She faintly heard him chuckle, a gentle tone to his voice. "Good night, you little trouble seeker." he said, and continued reading the book out loud. Though she was unable to reply, she had a peaceful sleep.

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#purify thy soul #death mark imagine #death mark x reader #death mark x oc #death mark #mashita satoru imagine #mashita satoru x hasashi kisara #mashita satoru x reader #mashita satoru x oc #mashita satoru

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saipng · 3 years

Note

YOO OMG YOU'VE PLAYED SPIRIT HUNTER??? Fammm 😭😭😭😭😭😭

well “played” is a tall order, more like obsessively watched manlybadasshero play it when it came out and then again a couple of weeks ago jdhdjdjdfj but yes i fucking love those games they didn’t get enough love imo

#amanome is best boy #mashita is best man #i’m weak for anime and horror what can i say #razikain #answered

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bloodraynebeast · 6 months

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We’re back to talk about Yashiki / Mashita as a pairing once again. Quick note, I’ve heard the less than positive feedback on the translation from players who played the Japanese version and I’ve tried searching for any translations that can help add to the context. Unfortunately the only context we’re using in this analysis is the official English version and fan translation for one of the DLCs. Thank you all so much for the interest and support on the first part! I knew I wanted to make another as it serves to archive their moments as well as analyse each scene. I’ll be going chronologically through the chapters so it's easier to follow. This is a long one! As always MAJOR SPOILERS for Death Mark 2 (And DM1) below.

All Links: Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 <-

Updated AO3 Version <-

Starting out with a small tangent, the theme of Death Mark 2 or Shibito Magire (死噛) with The Departed brings up a subject that seems to be a pattern within this series, no matter the universe.

Something that reoccurs in the games and extra content is Yashiki’s negative experiences with women and being forced into some form of marriage. I’m wondering if it's an address on the pressures Yashiki must have felt as Masamune or still feels being the heir and sole survivor of the Kujou bloodline. You notice in Death Mark that Yashiki wasn’t particularly on the best terms with women, namely Christie and Hiroo, but they both did warm up to him and seemed good friends during Death Mark 2.

In the Red Riding Hood DLC, Hiroo is a target and becomes possessed in an attempt to seduce Yashiki, where the bad choices are a result of not trying to pull her out of it. Death Mark 2 has The Departed declaring Yashiki as their future husband, displaying intense possessiveness and jealousy over his close relationships with the Mark Bearers, while also repeating that they will exchange vows and be bound.

In Chapter 3 with Kashima, Yashiki has to pretend to be the beloved teacher of a besotted student - again - and reciprocate their feelings with the flower sketches in order to save them. The two girls Douryou and Kinukawa, cursed and possessed by The Departed make him increasingly uncomfortable with their advances and forcefulness in the game, also trying to entice him. Yashiki has to constantly reassure everyone around him that there is nothing going on and harbours no feelings other than that of a teacher and an adult watching out for the safety of the young students. Because of that, the teacher and head of Academic affairs, Sakamoto, is begrudged to help him in the investigations and holds hostility towards him. Enough to withhold information that would help the case and save the student body. Yashiki also has to inhabit the role of the groom in the final fight against The Departed and apply the ink to complete the ceremony.

Even in the “Blue End” CD Drama, Yashiki becomes possessed by the entity known as the “Master Of The Mark”, who aims to make Mary and later Rose when she tries to intervene, as their consorts, exclaiming that they must exchange vows.

All this in mind, it’s no surprise why many question Yashiki’s preferences (he’s also just a morally good man) and gravitate towards Yashiki and Mashita’s relationship. Their bond is natural and grounded, it’s not aggressively forced upon Yashiki or us as the player. He tends to have more chemistry with the male characters in general, to what feels to us as his closest relationships, specifically Mashita and Daimon. Now onto the game itself.

Death Mark 2 begins with Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 revolving around Hanako Of The Toilet and the relationship between her and her best friend Horikoshi when she was still alive. Although they are ultimately killed off, the introduction of Akai and Horikoshi’s romantic love feels like an important detail. Namely, a love that grew between two best friends. Where one was more confident, rough and unapologetically blunt, the other was more gentle, kind and reserved. That sounds familiar. It also introduces how with Izumi blackmailing Horikoshi, that it likely wouldn't have been accepted at the school due to the prestigiousness and more likely because of the time period. Still, with the first appearance of a queer couple in the series, could this potentially be a stepping stone towards exploring Yashiki and Mashita’s relationship in a similar direction? Foreshadowing of another love forming between two best friends? The chance of this happening definitely seems more possible now.

However, Yashiki still wondering about the nature of their feelings between the two girls despite uncovering their diary entries and sensing it while singing the song lyrics, gives an impression that he would be oblivious to any developed feelings from Mashita if it happened. Also if a relationship did happen, it would likely be kept a secret, at least for as long as possible.

In Chapter 3 Yashiki reunites with Shou, who asks where Mashita is since this investigation involves spirits, practically calling them inseparable. Unlike other Mark Bearers, Mashita receives his own introductory CG. While this could just be something for the fans as Mashita is the most popular character and he was not present in the scene, it’s something to see Shou describing them as a package deal right before Mashita is singled out in the character introductions with his own dramatic CG, looking wistful in the rain. You’d be forgiven for thinking Yashiki is daydreaming about this man, here. Though I’m wondering if this is meant to be Yashiki’s perspective from a memory. Then Yashiki informs us that they were on a phone call the night before, but surprisingly we don’t get to see nor hear that conversation, besides that Mashita is currently indisposed and unable to join the others just yet.

There’s also a tiny detail in the character file that you unlock as more characters join the investigations. The other Mark Bearers are described as becoming friends with the protagonist after he saved their life during the Mary incident, then you read Mashita’s to find he’s formed a “deep bond” with the protagonist due to the number of cases they’ve worked on together. In the previous game there were dropped hints of how their specific relationship stood out among the rest and it applies even more so in the sequel. Although, I’ve heard in the Japanese release they were referred to as “nakama=friends” in the file, which is curious how and why it was translated to “deep bond' in the English version.

Mashita makes his first appearance in Chapter 5, asked to aid Yashiki by Yasuoka like in Red Riding Hood and tries to treat it as just a job. Yashiki is surprised but relieved by his arrival, placing a lot of trust and confidence in his capabilities and methods that he’s quick to jump on his help. At this point Yashiki was isolating himself from the Mark Bearers over fear of losing them after what happened with Ai, Shou, Daimon and now potentially Hiroo, and while displaying the same worry, he knows he can’t afford to turn away Mashita. He does however plead with Mashita to not draw attention while investigating, where the detective responds with a mischievous grin and no promises. In their first interactions, Mashita is shown to be comfortable with teasing Yashiki, even proceeding to call him Mr.Yashiki or “Yashiki-sensei”, much to the man's displeasure. He is not enjoying his time as a temporary teacher.

This can be taken with a grain of salt due to translation, but certain dialogues and dialogue options showed some influence from the other. For example, Yashiki’s dialogue options can sometimes grow very blunt and curt. The one for Suzu in the hospital made me laugh due to hearing Mashita’s voice so clearly. Another is at the conclusion of Kokkuri where if you partner up with Mashita and head to Fox Forest to return the laccata, Mashita comments on Yashiki empathising with the spirits again, but then addresses the late teacher as well, stating he’ll report everything to the police, make sure the investigation reopens and to wait until then. A similar reassurance that Yashiki is known for, hoping to give closure. Whereas if you bring Hiroo, Yashiki takes the role and reassures the spirit instead. It feels as though the purpose of that dialogue was to show Yashiki has rubbed off on him somewhat through working together. Mashita also reminds him there won’t always be someone around to save him when he gets too wrapped up in a spirit’s suffering, heavily implying Mashita’s referring to saving Yashiki’s life in the finale of Red Riding Hood.

Once again, Mashita half surprises us all by sneaking another gun to Yashiki, no longer his own, but instead pulls something behind the scenes to get his hands on another just so he has protection. The man is risking a lot of potential jail time again and being very hypocritical for someone still straight-edge with the law, only to keep tossing it out the window to ensure Yashiki’s safety. Particularly when in the same chapter, he chastises Hiroo for trying to obtain the petri dish for research purposes and plans to confiscate it from her. This seems to be the most effective method he thinks to protect Yashiki, only it’s more reckless this second time as the safety has been removed! Just another display of Mashita’s unhinged actions when focused on Yashiki. Also while this could be a simple gag and more on the type of person Mashita is, literature studies I’ve written in the past have made it difficult for me to not see the topic of guns in their scenes as euphemisms and symbolism.

For example, Mashita is always the one to supply the gun - Someone who feels more comfortable or enlightened to their sexuality, a popular fanon theory in the fandom. Meanwhile Yashiki always takes the gun with hesitance, then returns it - Someone still discovering that part of themselves after having everything about them essentially wiped. Additionally in Death Mark, Yashiki doesn’t use the gun but instead entrusts Mashita with it, whereas he uses a gun alongside Mashita in Death Mark 2 on three occasions.

Further with the guns as symbolism is during the confrontation in The Departed’s Wedding. As the spirit focuses their attacks on Mashita, in order to survive the scene Yashiki must use the gun given by Mashita and shoot The Departed, framed in a way to show rejection as the spirit becomes upset and repeats the word “liar”. After wrapping up the story of Kokkuri, Mashita demands the gun back, although jokes that Yashiki can keep it if he so wishes. You’re given the option to be cheeky with him by attempting to keep it, but Mashita doesn’t allow it, saying you have seconds to hand it over.

In the opening of Chapter 6 while in the infirmary, you can access a voicemail left by Shou. He expresses frustration that Mashita was adamant in keeping him away for his own safety, unless the worst should happen to the two of them. However he believes he won’t have to get involved and views Yashiki and Mashita in such high regards that he practically calls them unstoppable as a team, something I’m sure Yashiki needed to hear. Shou’s comment brings up a point that really highlights itself in Death Mark 2.

Yashiki and Mashita cover each other’s flaws and weaknesses. Yashiki is not as objective and too trusting so there were signs he would miss, like the amount of coincidences surrounding Douryou and Kinukawa and how they misled him. He’s also not confrontational. Yashiki’s issue was that he was very tunnel visioned on the victim in each notice and the spirit tied to it, hardly given the time to investigate The Departed between everything that was happening. He is the compassionate and emotional half that focuses on uncovering the dead’s grudge, their regrets and desires in order to appease them, which in turn saves the lives of those affected, whereas Mashita is the more direct, tactical and logical half. Mashita from years in the profession is tenacious and prioritises getting information and results, allowing for less emotion to get in the way. Not just for a lack of spiritual power, but he would not be as attune to clearing a spirits resentment, nor possibly the patience. But he immediately noticed that Yashiki was being led around to get distracted, rather than focusing on the source and even figured out The Departed’s identity. This brings us back to what happened in Death Mark with the Mary reveal, but the stakes were higher as Yashiki was directly affected and on borrowed time.

The Departed case would have come to a close much sooner if Yashiki and Mashita had teamed up from the beginning, which is possibly why Mashita was absent for most of the story. While I don’t believe Yashiki lacks the skills and intelligence on his own, though he can sometimes be endearingly dense, he does get stuck in conflict with his head and his heart often. It makes me curious about all the various cases they’ve worked on together. In short, if it weren’t for Mashita arriving and voicing his suspicions of the two girls and directing Yashiki to investigate Kinukawa’s room to paint a clearer picture, Yashiki would still have been manipulated down the wrong path.

It seems Mashita’s role in Death Mark 2 is putting pieces together where Yashiki fell flat, steering him in the right direction and confirming what the player has already deduced. It takes Mashita’s appearance in the two chapters to get Yashiki to start suspecting the two students especially. Mashita's shown as protective over Yashiki and is a very reliable character at a crucial point in his state of mind, despite the latter’s perception that Douryou and Kinukawa are deemed trustworthy.

He states he could care less if Yashiki gets closer to the girls for the sake of gathering information, but tells him to watch his step from doing anything else, implicates Kinukawa as the culprit immediately after the man confesses to a very serious crime, then mildly threatens Douryou on her equally suspicious behaviour towards Yashiki. Volunteering himself instead of Yashiki to investigate inside the remains of a shrine on the verge of collapsing - with Yashiki immediately worrying when Mashita cries out when he merely smacked his hand. Mashita being the one to suggest the two separate while fleeing The Departed as he is the target, so Yashiki has a chance of escaping. He constantly reminds Yashiki to stay on track of his original goal, drags him back when he gets too deep in his thoughts, tells him to stop blaming himself for the incidents that were out of his control and even comforts him in his own way. At this stage, perceived as romantic or not, Mashita has made it very apparent that he is ride or die with Yashiki.

Also it’s not often we see Mashita address Yashiki by his full name -

In Chapter 7, Mashita is the partner that is taken to the wedding grounds of where the wedding ceremony took place and where The Departed’s resentment began. Seeing the unfortunate fate of Sakamoto in the Good Ending, Yashiki begins despairing, blaming himself for her death, to which Mashita steps in to shut down quickly. He then pauses to console him that he did save her at the end, as she regained a sense of self and shared one final clue for them.

Learning about the origin of The Departed’s grudge, the spirit suddenly appears. Yashiki desperately tries to get answers but Mashita snaps his attention back before he can get sucked in. This is where Mashita sees The Departed for the first time in their grotesque, final transformation with the appearance of a spider - which we’ve seen previously in Death Mark’s DLC. An infamous symbol of sex and fertility. And he wastes no time hurling insults at it for trying to appear attractive to Yashiki. While The Departed has displayed a pattern of abducting the Mark Bearers to feast upon, still giving Yashiki an opportunity to save them and announcing so, there is instead murderous intent with Mashita immediately and begins attacking. Potentially due to the spirit gradually becoming more unstable through its transformation as the game progresses and the location, but to suddenly become enraged at Mashita standing beside Yashiki while they’ve had less issue with characters like Ai or Hiroo standing too close, it’s interesting. A literal or symbolic sense. Standing next to each other as partners? As equals? As lovers? The Departed is thought to observe and learn Yashiki’s closest connections, so it’s left a guess how their relationship might have been interpreted.

When the two part with Mashita luring away The Departed, Yashiki assumes the worst and feels hopelessness and loss, lingering on Mashita while escaping Fox Forest. Returning to the infirmary, Yasuoka comforts him that Mashita always lived life to his own rules and recklessness and to not hold himself responsible. There’s even a moment where Yashiki steers himself and vows to do what he can to finish the case, for Mashita’s sake. It’s a touching, little moment.

I think it’s also worth pointing out that Yashiki’s presumably closest relationships at this moment are “removed” all the way up to the final confrontation. Even if previous Mark Bearers have survived or died, it doesn’t change the outcome of Daimon collapsing into a coma from a curse and Mashita being attacked and chased down by The Departed themselves. There’s no mercy for these particular men. After escaping The Departed, the first person Mashita thinks to contact is Yashiki because he knows he’s in a fragile state. The self-sacrificial man’s resolve has been tested throughout the entire game and he must not give in at the final hurdle.

In the Good Ending, breaking the news that he’s alive while passing a comment at Yashiki not sounding as relieved as he should be is laughable when Mashita didn’t even say a word and is currently using a public phone. He attempts to cheer him up, saying he should be proud of himself for saving The Departed, and assuring that no one thinks differently of him for what he must’ve had to do. Mashita may never approve of Yashiki’s methods but he understands the physical and mental toll it takes on him.

At the end of it all in the True Ending, Yashiki and Mashita are destined to go for drinks with Hiroo and Daimon, thanks to the latter giving an invitation, which is a fun disaster of a scene I’d very much like to see. Undoubtedly a lot more snark compared to the outing with Ai, Shou and Hiroo. Though I’m sure Mashita will not be pleased to hear Douryou and Kinukawa barged into the mansion and regained their memories, being not the best at dealing with “brats”.

In one of the games DLC “Mary’s Makeover / New Colour” only available in Japan, but fan-translated by Generic Weeb Content, Moe, Eita and Suzu aid Yashiki in searching the mansion for a number combination, where one of the rooms available is the investigation room. Yashiki comments that this is where the Mark Bearers usually meet for spiritual investigations, so a few of their belongings are scattered around. Only two of them are of note. One is the small shrine Moe brought for protection and the other is the large green coat belonging to Mashita hanging on a coat rack. That’s been there the entire game and now we know. According to Yashiki, Mashita had forgotten it one time and it’s remained ever since. He speculates he must keep multiple, similar coats.

This immediately raises questions and shows a lot without telling. One important implication being how frequently Mashita visits the mansion, which we get an idea of from a certain coffee making Voice Drama - and yet according to the game in those four months prior, Yashiki has never once set foot in Mashita’s office. I’m very sceptical that someone observant like Mashita can forget they’re not wearing an oversized coat weighing on their shoulders. Furthermore, it’s a very plausible theory that the coat belonged to Mashita’s late senior as it is oversized and hangs loosely on every art sprite. Then there’s the inclusion of it on a singular panel from the manga where Mashita talks about him. Given he still carries the old lighter, he is at least somewhat of a sentimental person, so it's entirely possible he would keep it also as a memento. In other words, something treasured that he wouldn’t misplace. And why is it still there? Yashiki must have contacted him about it, so perhaps Mashita shrugged it off and never bothered to collect it. If we want to dive deeper, it sounds vaguely like the behaviour of leaving more and more belongings behind one does with a partner until they’ve practically moved in, leaving his mark on the mansion so to speak. Or it’s because Mashita views the Kujou mansion as another place to call home. Either way, Mashita is very casual about it and Yashiki allows it.

The DLC ends on a final scene with Yashiki and Mashita on the phone discussing Mary and the Death Parade. Parallel to the first game’s DLC, Mashita parts with some advice, warning him to be cautious around Mary and to watch out for himself. Yashiki reassures and thanks him, to which Mashita responds in the way one expects. After the call however, Yashiki addresses that while Mary is obsessed with him, he feels obsessed with her in return. In both instances in the DLCs, Mashita expresses open concern for Yashiki’s wellbeing and has the last word, setting up to be the voice of reason to pull Yashiki back from the brink. Knowing him too well that he needs to make him realise how dangerously empathetic he is and will be if Mary awakens or pulls some strings. Not to diminish the other friendships Yashiki has, as they are also important, but the devs specifically show in moments like these how much of an important piece Mashita is in Yashiki’s life. The balance that he needs. This ominous ending could be hinting at a build up to where Mashita saves Yashiki similar to Red Riding Hood or Yashiki’s mental state deteriorating, that everyone bands together to pull him out of that darkness.

Overall, I think this game perfectly demonstrates why they would work well as a couple. Canonical wise, it’s clear the two men have grown closer between the events of the games and keep in regular contact. They continue to have chemistry, address each other more casually, openly joke with one another, have wacky moments like hissing at a rock and shooting guns in the forest whilst on a mushroom trip, and are even called inseparable and unbeatable as a duo. Which leads into a moment in the Kokkuri case, where Mashita mentions again that Yashiki would make a good detective. Whether a praise or a jab, it’s another nod at his business proposal as partners from the previous game. They’ve already crossed the line of being partners in these cases, and even more so in NG, so that might end up being inevitable. Especially from Death Mark 2’s ending where Yashiki discovers what his role will be from now on and his motivations behind pursuing further spiritual cases.

It bears repeating that this isn’t meant to take away from their friendship, but the subtle (or less than subtle) implications of something romantic are all there in a lot of ways in Death Mark 2 - despite the overarching theme of thrusting Yashiki into a teacher-student romance scenario. There’s even more of an influx of art and fanfictions of the two men from old and new fans introduced to the series, as a result. And with the addition of LGBT+ characters - minus the doomed, buried trope - it could be seen as something positive for where their relationship could go. It certainly opens up the possibility.

If a sequel is in the works or if they are testing interest with the latest DLC, it’ll be interesting to see where they take these two in the next installment. One thing is for certain, if there was ever a decision to plan a Yashiki and Mashita spin off series or something that centered on them as protagonists, it is guaranteed a large audience. Next part we’ll be looking at CD Voice Dramas currently available and fan translated by amazing people in the fandom, including “Blue End” and more. If I’ve missed anything from the game, please do feel free to add! Thank you so much for reading!

#死印 #死噛 #shiin #spirit hunter #death mark #spirit hunter: death mark #death mark 2 #death mark 2 spoilers #spoilers #death bite #shibito magire #kazuo yashiki #yashiki kazuo #satoru mashita #mashita satoru #yashita

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rainbowchaox · 6 months

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Yashiki and Mashita: Why the Ship Works (Yashiki POV)

We are introduced to Yashiki at the start of Death Mark as we play as him. It’s soon so apparent that his heart bleeds out like ink. He holds empathy for everyone. Spirit or alive. Much to his detriment and it’s a character flaw that follows him through the games. Yashiki is amnesiac and doesn’t know who he is and he is terrified. Rightfully so because he might die by sunrise. He cares so much about others but it’s clear from the start he doesn’t feel the same amount of care for himself. Always sacrificing himself for others.

He trusts everyone, even those he shouldn’t. And at his core he is kind. And a bit of push over at times. He is scared of so many things, but he is most scared for others. He feels he needs to be the one to watch over his companions. Yashiki is gentle, but naive, and a bit oblivious of social cues.

We play him as a blank state of sorts but he is nowhere near a self insert protagonist. He has his own personality and his own opinions. And like Mashita he is a complicated man. And has tons of facets and layers. This is especially true when we find out who he actually is.

And you might be wondering why I am going deep into his character. The fact is this ship needs people to understand their inner thoughts and psyche. I am starting with Yashiki pov as well it’s more understandable as we can hear his thoughts as he is our main character we follow. Mashita is complicated and will get his own chapter. I’m just going through both of the two points of views throughout the two canon games and why the ship works. And why it’s practically canon in all but name.

When Yashiki meets Mashita for the first time. It’s definitely not a meet cute. It’s a meet threat. Mashita literally crawled out under a blood soaked bed in a secret basement of horror. He just was there. Of course he was suspicious. Mashita is amazing but how he was introduced didn’t look good. Especially for a man that is going through horror not really knowing who he really is. Also doesn’t help that yes Mashita face looks kinda evil. Hot yes but evil. He got the nickname Detective Bedroom eyes for a reason.

The fact is even without his memories. Yashiki, despite his social awkwardness he knows how people tick. It’s probably a good skill to have in spiritual work. Whether he realizes or not he dissects everyone's psyche and mannerisms in front of him. And this is especially true for when he meets Mashita for the first time.

Mashita is only a threat for a second before Yashiki starts to understand him. We can read his thoughts. We know that despite Mashita's rough attitude. Yashiki and him literally become friendly in one single car ride. We watch Yashiki slowly gaining understanding of Mashita as a person. I believe that car ride made Yashiki realize that Mashita is a good person. And someone he can be trusted. And eventually someone he can love. A possible life partner. Though it takes a while for him to realize this. But it’s a seed that will grow with time and attention.

And Yashiki is soon shown why he was right to trust Mashita. Mashita worked with him to deal with Hanahiko. The best partner and companion he could ask. Loyal to a fault. Sure Mashita had reason to help as he also was cursed with the Death Mark. But Yashiki even then could see it wasn’t really about getting rid of the Mark but more about helping others. Though Yashiki won’t say any of this out loud.

Yashiki, after Hanahiko was dealt with, did expect Mashita to be like Moe and Tsukasa. And leave him and go back to his normal life. And stay out of the spiritual world. Leaving him to hunt for another spirit in order to not die. The fact is though. Mashita stayed. And there’s no way you can convince me that Yashiki didn’t grow attached when he realized that fact. Especially after dealing with one spirit already. Mashita didn’t leave. Mashita. Didn’t. Leave. Mashita stayed.

Mashita for better or for worse got himself marked again in order to save Yashiki. Mashita is literally the only reason why Yashiki and the others survived Shimi-O at the entrance of the forest. Mashita came to the forest because he wanted to. Sure, we find out later he has his own reasons connected to his dead senpai but that doesn’t explain why he stayed completely.

Yashiki isn’t dumb. As much he does act dumb at times. Yashiki knows Mashita could have stayed safe back in the mansion. Yashiki knows how much of a hassle the Mark is. But Mashita willingly let himself be Marked again. In order to save Yashiki and the others. I’m sorry but how can Yashiki not be wooed by such a man? Mashita cares so much. And will do anything to protect those he cares about.

Eventually Shimi-O is dealt with and Yashiki survives for another day. But sadly Mashita decided it was time for him to leave. In my opinion the reason he left was not that he dealt with too many spirits but that he realized he would drag Yashiki down. He isn’t of use anymore. He leaves because he cares. Mashita lies though. Acts like he had enough experience with spirits.

And Yashiki knows this on some level. You can even choose to say I will miss you to Mashita. Which Mashita canonically gets a bit flustered at. Mashita promises Yashiki to give him a drink when he gets out of the Mark business eventually. Mashita literally asked him on a date when he gets the Mark on his wrist dealt with.

And so Mashita takes his leave for the rest of the main game. Even so, as much as the other characters are amazing in their own right. Mashita left his mark. There’s a reason why he is a fan favorite. Mashita and Yashiki have the best chemistry. It’s no wonder why so many who play the game leave thinking they are interested in each other. Their relationship is like no other.

Eventually Yashiki finds out the truth and deals with Mary. Curing himself of the Mark. Finally free from the ordeal. And we find out that Mashita wants Yashiki to join him for investigations now that he is working as a private eye. This shows how much Mashita respects Yashiki. Despite his rough mouth. And how Mashita wants Yashiki to be by his side.

Then the Red Riding Hood case came to be. The only reason Yashiki became involved was because Mashita strong armed him into getting involved. Yashiki at that point wanted to return to normalcy and find a way to seal Mary forever. But Mashita barged his way into the mansion. And demanded to take the case and take responsibility for telling the old hag about his private eye work.

This shows me that in the time off screen that Yashiki and Mashita grew close. Mashita feels comfortable enough to waltz right in. Yashiki be damned. For most of the case, Mashita isn’t present as he is busy with other cases. A recurring theme that will also happen in Death Mark 2.

Mashita and Yashiki are such a good team. Spirits be damned. But both have clear weaknesses when they are apart. They are Yin and Yang. Each other half. Mashita is logical while Yashiki is emotional. They are just a fantastic team. So literally they have to be apart for most of the cases because they are too overpowered.

Mashita returns after most of the companions Yashiki was investigating with. Are hospitalized. And they immediately are such a good team. Mashita always slaps Yashiki back to reality and gets him to focus on the task at hand. Which is needed after him practically having a panic attack knowing how many of his friends are in the hospital.

Mashita eventually leaves Yashiki outside. And tries to start the car because clearly Yashiki was dealing with a migraine given to him by a spirit. A female spirit that wants a piece of him. A common theme but he never reacts. And Yashiki's gentle heart is swayed to enter the hotel by Red Riding Hood.

And he almost dies. The spirit almost drags him out the window. But he is saved yet again by Mashita. And Mashita almost breaks. He grabs him and brings Yashiki up. And that’s when I personally believe Yashiki realized he loves Mashita. And this shows why they work so well together. And their different views and why both decided to fully stay in the spiritual world. Yashiki wants to be empathetic to spirits while Mashita believes humans and spirits should stay in their different worlds.

Then Death Mark 2 happens. Not only do we see that their closeness is even more apparent. They talk often on the phone. Yashiki is especially gay about Mashita in this game. Despite the whole premise being that yet another female ghost wants to marry him. Again Mashita isn’t present until the last two chapters as he would slap Yashiki back into reality and solve the whole The Departed business in a chapter. But those two chapters give us so much.

When we finally see Mashita. The best way I can explain how their dynamic has changed. It is that they are more playful with each other. They are used to each other by now. They definitely give the impression that they interact with each other alot out of work. They care alot about each other.

They are way more playful with each other. They even meowed and hissed at a rock of all things. Which Mashita only made Yashiki do to make Yashiki look dumb. Mashita literally lives to make fun of Yashiki. Another aspect is how they are practically canon besides saying it outright. Yashiki, despite having so many ghosts into him and seeing so much fan-service, never reacts. The Departed usually made characters vanish for a bit. The Departed hates Mashita though. So much.

The Departed fully thought of Mashita as serious competition. The Departed acted like a wife seeing her husband have an affair. And chased after Mashita. The Departed said “His wife should be the one by his side”. The spirit was so jealous of Mashita because even if it’s not said outright. There’s something more there.

Yashiki meanwhile felt actual grief thinking Mashita is dead. And only bringing himself the strength to continue because it would be what Mashita would have wanted. He could only bring himself to continue because of Mashita. Mashita also told it to him straight and brought himself back to reality. And never faltered believing him despite Yashiki being convinced he is a murderer.

Eventually The Departed is solved. And we are shown that Mashita canonically leaves his jacket which is very much implied to be his dead Senpai trench coat at the Kujou mansion. Like a cat showing his territory. And from the crumbs in NG we know that Mashita and Yashiki continue acting as a team. And sorta get famous for it.

All in all, Yashiki doesn’t fall first. He is akin to a frog in a pot of boiling water. And actions always mean more to him than what a person says. Him and Mashita have such good chemistry. The ship is canon in all but name. They are practically boyfriends already canonically. And each other's favorite person.

#death mark #death mark 2 #satoru mashita #kazuo yashiki #yashiki x mashita #spirit hunter

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wellthatsnogood · 2 years

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Hello! Thank you for the cpr, we sure do need it! Maybe something with Yashiki mentoring Akira, where Akira comes to meet the cast of DM, i think that'd be super cute aaa they'd all be a few years older and stuff! It's pretty vague but I'm not good at imagining concrete scenarios;; i just want some dad kinda yashiki,,, bonus if mashita and yashiki are a couple

So maybe not exactly on topic but I had so many ideas for this prompt! I love writing interactions between Death Mark and NG characters, so I’ll probably be writing more down the road!

That said this was both super fun and somehow felt like punching a wall. I have to post it now or I’ll mess with it forever. Thank you so much for the prompt!!

Word count: 960

Rating: G

Warnings: None

Water dripped from the doorway to the ground, the irregular pattering on the concrete signaling an end to the day’s storm. A small break after a harrowing night. After all, bringing an umbrella had been the last thing on Yashiki’s mind. One moment he was reading more old tomes about seals and the next he’s on an urgent call from Mashita, rushing from the manor.

“What were you even thinking, ya brat!” Mashita’s the first to break the silence. He’s staring Akira down as the young man trudges over to his overturned bike. Yashiki could see Mashita getting more pissed as the kid ignored him in favor of checking the bike. Maybe another night he’d let the inevitably brutal lecture start, but not tonight. Not when everyone seemed worn so thin. Not when he knows Mashita’s worry turns his concern into biting words.

Yashiki put his hand on Mashita’s shoulder to stop him, squeezing gently. He received his own patented scowl but answered with a gentle, pleading look. After a tense second Mashita huffed and shook off his hand. “Whatever. I’ll be in the van, it’s too damn cold and damp in this alley. Give me the keys.”

“Thank you.” Yashiki smiled and handed over the van keys. He watched Mashita give another quick glare to Akira before turning away.

“Don’t take too long old man. And don’t be too soft on him either.” Mashita waved over his shoulder as he walked out of the ally. The silence grew again, only slightly changed by the scraping noise of Akira righting and checking his bike.

Yashiki had to admit, he’d been surprised at just how well Akira took care of the motorcycle when they met two years ago. For him to let it lay on the ground in an alley was definitely abnormal. It was no wonder Mashita had called when he spotted it abandoned on his way home, voice as close to panic as Yashiki ever heard.

Pushing the thoughts away he quietly walked up to the boy, observing the way he tensed up despite Yashiki’s best efforts to be silent.

“What? Think I can’t handle getting chewed out?” Akira asked, back turned. He crouched down and started poking around the bike, seeming determined to look busy. “Wouldn’t be new. Probably one of my more deserved lectures.”

Yashiki sighed. “So you know going into a haunt alone was stupid? That you easily could have died?” Yashiki was certain there was a mild shake in Akira’s hands. “That you likely would have if Mashita hadn’t seen your bike.”

He waited for Akira to say something, or at least look at him but it seemed the bike was still more interesting. Or at least it was a convenient distraction. He let the silence grow heavy again before breaking it with a sigh.

“Can you at least say why you went? I know you’ve handled ghosts, worse ones too, but. Look, take it from me. A martyr complex only hurts everyone around you.”

This time Akira actually stopped, shoulders hunching up for a second before the fight drained out of him. He suddenly looked exhausted. “I know okay? I didn’t come here on purpose. Just heard some weird shit and went poking around. Thought it would just be some punks hanging in an ally or something.”

Akira stood back up, finally turning to actually look at Yashiki. The kid looked tired and frustrated, his scowl somehow deeper than usual. It made Yashiki feel a bit bad to be honest. “Quite the mistake. Maybe you’ll pay more attention to the articles on early haunting signs I gave you.” He smiled, trying to pass it as a light rib but Akira’s mood didn’t change at all.

“Sure.” He shoved his hands in his pockets and shrugged before turning back to his bike again. “Can I go then? Or you have something else to say?”

The response had Yashiki wanting to pull out his hair. He never wanted kids, felt he’d be terrible at it, and this awkward mentorship arrangement really felt like a cruel joke. “Akira. Just… be careful okay? You’re my responsibility and,” he paused, long enough for Akira to look back at him, “I worry alright?” The words felt clumsy but right. Akira gave him an odd look before looking away quickly.

“Yeah, okay old man.” He poked at his bike again. “I’ll be more careful, and uh, I’ll pay more attention.” Akira hopped on his bike, checking that the engine started before turning it off again. He leaned against the handle bars, looking back toward the building. “You should be more careful too though. Old men like you and that detective should be retired. Don’t want to find a new mentor for this ghost stuff.”

Yashiki smiled again, nodding even if Akira wasn’t looking. “Don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll be stuck with eachother for a while.” The distant blare of his van’s horn broke the moment. He jumped, looking over his shoulder and trying his best to ignore Akira’s snicker behind him. “Yes, well, I guess that’s all. Wouldn’t want Mashita to lecture both of us.”

Akira laughed, engine starting again. “Sure. I’ll see you guys back at the mansion.”

“Don’t take the long way. I’m sure you’ll still have to face Mashita’s wrath for this, and waiting will just make him simmer.” Yashiki stood back, letting Akira drive out of the alley. He shook his head, hearing the horn blare again, sure that Mashita just saw Akira pass by. He’d do his best to calm the detective down on the drive, though to be honest he wasn’t going to be the best voice in this situation.

Mashita would just have to live with being cursed by self sacrificing idiots it seemed.

#spirit hunter series #death mark #spirit hunter ng #fanfic #satoru mashita #kazuo yashiki #akira kijima #very subtle mashiki #this was very fun #thank you again for this!!!#damedanedameyodamenanoyo #prompt answers

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todomitoukei · 4 years

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Hey wanna ask u something I saw a post in twitter saying that Bakugou is very rude in japanese and they can't really write how rude he is in english cuz english translation isn't rich as the Japanese ANYWAY, since Bakugou is rude is Dabi a rude character too? And who's the most rudest character in BnHA? Man i hope it's Dabi kskdkkkds 😔😂 I just feel it suits him to be rude :')

That’s a great question! Also sort of difficult to explain? There are a lot of nuances to the Japanese languages that don’t exist in English, so be aware: there is some information ahead.

Let me preface this, though, by saying that I normally read My Hero in English. I sometimes read certain parts in Japanese, specifically when I try to figure out what the character said exactly rather than just trusting in the English translation. So I can’t give you a perfect answer as to who the rudest character is since I’m not familiar enough with everyone’s speech patterns. (I think I’ve mostly looked at what Dabi and Shouto have said in Japanese), but I did browse a little more through some Japanese chapters to compare a couple of characters.

For this post, I am going to mainly compare Bakugou and Dabi.

And before we talk about swearing in Japanese, I don’t remember if this is just a one time occasion or if this happens more often throughout the story, but for example, in chapter 292 when Shouto basically asks Dabi whether he has lost his mind, the official English translation made him say: “Are you freakin’ insane?!” - sorry, but if you’re gonna add a swear word, why this watered-down version? This is a story filled with dark topics, brutal fights, and on-screen killing, and yet you won’t let a teenager say fuck? W h y ?

Anyway, the reason people say it doesn’t translate well is that swear words aren’t a big thing in Japanese. There are a couple of swear words, and we’ll look at those, yet overall those words aren’t swear words by definition, but rather become swear words based on context and tone.

Because the Japanese language is all about different levels of politeness, whether certain words are rude or not depends on the context and whom you are speaking to.

That being said, let’s take a look at the different ways characters can sound rude:

Words

This is a really good post that talks about swearing in Japanese and lists some of the words that can be used similar to swear words.

One of the words featured on that list is 「てめェ」 (temee). This word gets used by several characters throughout the story, usually to address an opponent. Here’s an example of Dabi using it in chapter 292 whilst referring to Best Jeanist:

If you look this word up in the dictionary you’ll get the following definitions: you (used by young males; vulgar; derogatory)/ you son of a bitch/ you bastard. Technically, this word means you, but the nuance boils down to the speaker looking down on the person they’re talking to.

There is also the word 「死ね」 (shine). This is the imperative form (command form) of 「死ぬ、しぬ」(shinu) - to die. I don’t think I have to explain why it’s considered rude to tell someone to die. Anyway, this one is commonly used by Bakugou (like when he has to throw the ball during class).

Another big swear word is「くそ」(kuso), meaning damn, shit. In My Hero, this is often said as「クソナード」(kuso naado) - “damn nerd” by Bakugou. Another nickname Bakugou uses is the one he has for Shouto,「半分野郎」(hanbun yarou) - “Half bastard”

Speaking of 「野郎」you know who else uses that word? Dabi.

Dabi says:「なんだ空っぽのコスプレ野郎じゃねえか。」(nanda karappo no kosupure yarou janee ka.)

I think the English translation says something along the lines of “Oh, so you’re not just a hollow cosplayer” But that loses a lot of the nuance.

「なんだ ; nanda 」-> depends on context, but can be translated as “What the hell?”

「空っぽ ; karappo」-> hollow

「の ; no 」-> particle to indicate possession, works like an apostrophe

「スプレ ; kosupure 」-> cosplay

「野郎 ; yarou 」-> bastard

「じゃねえ ; janee 」-> rude form of 「じゃない」 (janai) which is already the casual way to negate the word it proceeds

「か ; ka 」-> question marker

As you can see, this sentence includes several colloquial/rude ways of speaking. The full sentence would be “What the hell? You’re not a hollow bastard cosplayer?” - yarou can also just be translated as “guy” but even then it’s a rougher word, so that’s why bastard emphasizes that better, I think.

So it’s definitely fair to say both Dabi and Bakugou are ruder than other people, mainly shown by the way they address people.

Bakugou even uses 「野郎」on the hero Slidin’ Go:「語彙力この野郎」(goiryoku kono yarou) “Extend your vocabulary, you bastard”

Also, here’s a panel that features Bakugou saying several rude words at once! Sometimes, he uses a lot. Featured here are the aforementioned 「くそ」(kuso) and 「てめー」 (temee), as well as 「ばか」* (baka) - “idiot” - *note that in the manga kuso and baka are written in katakana,「クソ、バカ」 respectively, instead of hiragana to emphasize them similar to the function of italics.

Polite Speech

Again, there are different levels of politeness in the Japanese language, and one of the quickest ways to determine the level is by looking at the verb ending. There is a plain form (also known as dictionary form), as well as a polite form. The latter is also known as “masu”-form since you change the ending of the verb into masu.

There are a few instances where Shouto uses the polite form while talking to someone, like here with Rock Lock:「頼みます」(tanomimasu) “to entrust to”

and here, when he is thanking All Might「ありがとうございました」 (arigatou gozaimashita). This is a common phrase, but it’s usually shortened to just arigatou.

Now take Bakugou again, who doesn’t use the polite form when talking to Pro Heroes he has never talked to before and instead calls them bastard. Definitely ruder!

Another instance of a character using polite speech is Dabi throughout his broadcast, like here where he says「生まれました」 (umaremashita) “have been born”

Pronouns

There are also several personal pronouns in Japanese. The standard being「私」(watashi), which is mainly used by women, but can also be used by men, specifically in formal or public spaces to remain more neutral. This pronoun is for example used by All Might.

The story itself is called 「僕のヒーローアカデミア」(Boku no Hīrō Akademia), boku meaning I and is usually used by boys/young men. Grown men might also use it as a sign of modesty since the word originates from the terms 「下僕」(geboku) meaning manservant, and「公僕」(kouboku) meaning public servant. As the story title hints, this is the pronoun Deku uses to refer to himself.

Another personal pronoun is 「俺」(ore). This one is more commonly used around peers. Because it sounds a little self-asserting, it can be rude when used in formal settings or when speaking to strangers or old people. This is a pronoun used by the majority of the male characters, including Dabi, Shigaraki, Shouto, and Bakugou.

Which language a character uses is part of their characterization, hence a more humble character like Deku uses boku, whereas more dominating/self-confident characters like Dabi, Shouto, or Bakugou use ore.

What’s more, a good way to learn about the different politeness levels is to look at chapter 290, where we switch between Dabi’s broadcast, and Dabi on the battlefield talking to Endeavor and Shouto.

Aside from using the polite form of speaking in his broadcast rather than the casual form, he also uses boku in his broadcast, and ore on the battlefield:

Again, when boku is used by grown men (aka Dabi) it’s a humble way of speaking. Pairing that with him using the polite form of speaking makes him sound especially well-mannered, a huge contrast to his usual rough character.

Sentence Ending Particles

Another way to influence the way what you’re saying sounds is the way you end your sentences. There are several particles you can use (sort of like “right?”, “isn’t it?” etc.). Again, there are certain choices here to make you sound “cooler” or “manlier” - so not explicitly rude, but it just adds to the already existing roughness certain characters use when speaking.

One of these particles is「さ」(sa) which is a casual/rougher form of 「よ」(yo), mainly used by men, and can be added to the end of a sentence for emphasis. Here’s an example of Dabi using sa while speaking to Skeptic in chapter 291.

Also, note that temee gets used again here. As mentioned before, temee can just mean you, but in a derogatory way. The official translation says “Thanks to you and your camera for that prime footage. No reason not to use what we got, right?” - so aside from English not having a derogatory you, the “right?” is at least a good translation for sa.

「ぜ」is another particle like that, but it’s only used in casual conversations or when speaking to someone of lower social status. So when Dabi uses this here -

as he invites Endeavor to dance with him in hell, it’s obviously a rude, mocking way to end the sentence since technically Endeavor is above him in social status (since he is his father and also a Pro Hero).

To sum it up, there are a lot of characters who generally speak rougher and less respectfully than the average character does, but what makes Dabi and Bakugou particularly stand out is the way they address people, often using derogatory words, added with some other ways to sound rougher/ruder no matter whom they are speaking to.

In comparison to Shouto, who has shown to at least sometimes speak in a polite form, Bakugou doesn’t seem to use that form at all. The problem with comparing this to Dabi in order to figure out which of them is the rudest is that we don’t really see Dabi in formal situations. Him being a villain automatically means he doesn’t exactly get into situations, where he would speak to a higher up. Sure, Shigaraki is more-or-less his boss, but they’re more on even grounds than in a formal employee-employer scenario.

The one time he does speak formally is during his broadcast. This shows that he can speak formally when he wants to - but he usually doesn’t. Again, though, as a villain, it’s difficult to compare him to those on the hero side. That is also the reason why some might consider Bakugou to be especially rude since he is on the hero side and with that, expected to speak nicer to people.

While Dabi’s speaking mannerisms match that of a bad guy, Bakugou speaking similar to him despite being a hero-to-be makes him sound more aggressive. Bakugou is basically the expression “don’t judge a book by its cover”.

With that, it would make more sense to compare a character like Dabi to another villain, of course. While characters like Shigaraki overall also speak similar to Dabi, again, it’s more about the words he uses for people, especially when he is close with them.

So I think it’s fair to say that Bakugou and Dabi are, at the very least, some of the rudest-speaking characters in the story. The reason the translations can’t quite capture this is due to certain aspects of Japanese (like the different levels of formality shown through conjugation, certain particles, and certain words) not existing in English. While English also has rougher ways of speaking, there aren’t as many nuances, especially if you want to make characters stand out more in comparison to other characters with similar rough mannerisms.

Anyway, I hope this somewhat answered your question! Like I said, it’s difficult to explain that in one post, especially considering the amount of characters in the story, as well as certain aspects - like Bakugou being on the hero side and Dabi being on the villain side - making it more difficult to sum it up, so hopefully this at least explained a little bit.

#ask #translation #dabi #bakuou #bnha #boku no hero academia #mha #my hero academia #todoroki #Anonymous

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